Sports Business Management | BA (Hons)

Course Overview

Sport is a social and economic phenomenon and this degree has been designed to examine critically the business decisions that shape this lucrative global industry.

From the outset, the programme focuses on the business and management of the sports sector, and explores the culture, policy, impact, and delivery of sporting opportunities, particularly in a commercial context. It aims to develop students' skills for the critical analysis of sport, sport spaces, products, services, and operations.

The course examines the breadth and power of sports participation and business on individuals and societies. It looks at the global structure of sports and the complexities, challenges, and issues that are often involved in reconciling government objectives with personal and community aspirations.

Why Choose Lincoln?

Hands-on experience during a work placement year

Optional study visits to sports industry destinations

Hear from industry experts and sports business practioners

Work on client-based projects and sports research

Choose from a wide range of optional modules

A student working at Lincoln City Football ground

How You Study

During the first and second years, students are able to study sport-specific modules to further their understanding of the sector, and grasp the foundations of sports management and sports studies. Modules on finance, sports club management, marketing, organisational behaviour, and visitor experiences underpin students' learning.

During their final year, students can choose to work on client projects or develop their own independent, sports-focused research.

Students on this course are able to take a year-long work placement after their second year, providing a chance to gain experience and apply their learning in practice. Students are expected to source their own placement, but tutors can provide support during the process if required. Those who choose to take a placement do not pay tuition fees for that year, but must cover their own travel, accommodation, and living costs.

Student Stories - Charlotte's Journey

Hear from Charlotte, a Sports Business Management student at Lincoln International Business School, who shares her journey about studying at the University of Lincoln.

Modules

† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.

Business Environment (Micro) 2023-24ECO1032Level 42023-24This module explores a range of economic concepts and basic analytical techniques. The focus of the module is the Financial Times (FT). The FT covers issues relating to operations management, accounting, HRM, economics, and finance, all of which are relevant to a business degree. Students are encouraged to keep abreast of current events in the commercial environment, which can help when competing for placements and employment opportunities in the commercial world.CoreData Analytics for Business 2023-24ECO1031Level 42023-24This module develops some quantitative techniques that underpin research and business analysis. It promotes a critical awareness and understanding of some of the processes, techniques and technology by which numerical information can be collected and analysed. In addition to ensuring that students are competent in relevant numerical techniques, it anticipates the requirements of later modules, such as independent study, that entail analysis of numerical information using statistical tests.CoreFinance for non-specialists 2023-24FIN1012MLevel 42023-24This module is designed to provide an introduction to basic business finance for non-specialist students. The module explores the essential elements of business finance, which are required for a career in business, in any discipline.CoreOrganisational Behaviour 2023-24MGT1022MLevel 42023-24This module is intended for students who are interested in understanding the way people work, as individuals and as group members in firms. The module explores essential topics in a clear, concise and informative manner, aiming to introduce students to the interpersonal perceptual processes in a work environment; the key behavioural factors determining effective and ineffective groups; the usefulness of theories on leadership/management styles; and the difficulties in implementing change in organisations.CorePrinciples of Marketing 2023-24MKT1001MLevel 42023-24This module provides an introduction to the theory and practice of marketing, as well as marketing technologies that will underpin the more specialist marketing modules at higher levels. Students are introduced to the key concepts, terminologies, and issues of marketing not only in specific businesses, but also in a broad social context. The module shows how sustainable market success can be achieved through business environment analysis and customer-centred product/services development. The module will examine the customer journey and stakeholder engagement to evaluate the impact of marketing activities on consumers, the environment, and society. Students will also benefit from gaining insights on the latest marketing thinking, trends, and techniques; learning from experienced marketing practitioners and developing creative mindset, cognitive flexibility, social and emotional intelligence to manage the plethora of opportunities and challenges that will help them to success in future world of work.CoreSports Business: Principles and Concepts 2023-24SBM1008MLevel 42023-24This module introduces the students to the business of sport. Students can gain an understanding of the contexts within which sport business managers operate and the technological changes and innovations which affect the way sport is experienced, viewed, and managed. The globalisation of sport business is explained along with changing governance structures. There is a focus on the impact of participation and the drivers and barriers the population face as Sports Business Managers need to be aware of the changing landscape of sport. There is an ever-increasing demand to deliver effective sports management at international, nation, regional and local levels. This requires systems with accountable delivery mechanisms. Sport no longer stands alone and there is an increasing need to work in partnership with other stakeholders. These partnerships not only provide a complex network structuring the management of sport business, but also pressure it to be sustainable, equitable, and empowering. This module is designed to offer students an introduction to the world of sports business management and for them to consider and reflect on the range of impacts sports can have within business. A lecture programme will frame and set out the main content of this modules syllabus, while seminars will provide a student-centred learning approach to be applied across topic areas. Guest lectures will provide students with an added understanding of management issues from a practitioner perspective. Students can develop skills in discussing and describing the dynamic concepts of sports business management alongside learning how to present and portray their understanding through presentation software. The module will be assessed by an individual digital presentation (for example Adobe Spark) allocated to 100% of the module mark. The individual digital presentation will utilise presentation software and will be created to allow the students to demonstrate their understanding of one of the key themes outlined within the module handbook.CoreAdvanced French 1 2023-24MOD1393MLevel 42023-24OptionalAdvanced French 2 2023-24MOD1394MLevel 42023-24OptionalAdvanced German 1 2023-24MOD1395MLevel 42023-24OptionalAdvanced German 2 2023-24MOD1396MLevel 42023-24OptionalAdvanced Spanish 1 2023-24MOD1397MLevel 42023-24OptionalAdvanced Spanish 2 2023-24MOD1398MLevel 42023-24OptionalBusiness English Culture and Society 1 2023-24MOD1407MLevel 42023-24OptionalBusiness English Culture and Society 2 2023-24MOD1408MLevel 42023-24OptionalCore Chinese 1 2023-24MOD1399MLevel 42023-24OptionalCore Chinese 2 2023-24MOD1400MLevel 42023-24OptionalCore French 1 2023-24MOD1401MLevel 42023-24OptionalCore French 2 2023-24MOD1402MLevel 42023-24OptionalCore German 1 2023-24MOD1403MLevel 42023-24OptionalCore German 2 2023-24MOD1404MLevel 42023-24OptionalCore Italian 1 2023-24MOD1628MLevel 42023-24OptionalCore Italian 2 2023-24MOD1629MLevel 42023-24OptionalCore Spanish 1 2023-24MOD1405MLevel 42023-24OptionalCore Spanish 2 2023-24MOD1406MLevel 42023-24OptionalGlobal Case Studies in Tourism, Events and Sports Business Management 2023-24TOU1230MLevel 42023-24In a highly competitive and globalised tourism, events, and sports business industry, businesses active in these fields are constantly struggling to attract local national and international visitors, attendees, fans, or funding. These are truly global industries, constantly struggling for resources. Crucial to their development and success is being able to research the needs of their customers and other stakeholders, the impacts they have on the industry, markets, and destinations, as well as their available resources. Research is an integral part of the tourism industry and tourism management. Upon completion of this module, students should be able to evaluate the significance and use of published data and original research within tourism, events and sports business management; develop and implement research strategies appropriate to the study of these interconnected industries and their stakeholders; and collect, analyse, interpret, and present data that supports local and global tourism, events and sports businesses in their decision-making process. This knowledge will be of relevance and will enhance the academic work produced during their second and final year of study across the three programmes. The module will discuss a range of highly popular global case-studies with the areas of tourism, events, and sports business management such as the Olympics, Eurovision, or the MICE industry (meetings, incentive travel, conferences, exhibitions). It is vital to introduce key concepts to the successful running of such case-studies such as experience management (the visitor experience or the tourist experience for tourism management; the venue experience or the event attendee experience for events management; the fan or the club experience for sports business management) before proceeding to more complex issue in the 2nd and final year of study. The module achieves that with the help of a range of theoretical and practical case-studies. The module complements the year 1 core tourism, events, and sports business modules very well because it focuses on the practical application of these key concepts, and it allows their observation in practice with the help of fieldtrips and fieldwork. Students will engage with practical activities related to these three themes and in addition they will push their knowledge and skills further by investigating the themes through fieldwork and data collection. This module provides students with an opportunity to develop a range of research skills, both quantitative and qualitative. It enables students to understand the nature of evidence in research as well as undertake their own independent research. In doing so, it aims to prepare students for their final year dissertation (or consultancy project) by giving them the chance to develop skills, ideas, and confidence to undertake a major piece of primary research. The module also encourages students to evaluate research using the key concepts of reliability and validity.OptionalIntermediate French 1 2023-24MOD1409MLevel 42023-24OptionalIntermediate French 2 2023-24MOD1410MLevel 42023-24OptionalIntermediate German 1 2023-24MOD1411MLevel 42023-24OptionalIntermediate German 2 2023-24MOD1412MLevel 42023-24OptionalIntermediate Spanish 2 2023-24MOD1414MLevel 42023-24OptionalIntermediate Spanish 1 2023-24MOD1413MLevel 42023-24OptionalProfessional Development 2023-24MGT1027MLevel 42023-24This module is designed to enable students to identify potential career paths, understand power, emotional intelligence and responsibility in a professional context. Moreover, the module enhances the students' understanding of the graduate job market and the skills they need for meeting employer requirements and securing a job. Assessments enable the students to map their skills and competences based on the analysis of job descriptions and practise interview and presentation skills. In addition to lectures and seminars, the students will learn from industry guest speakers who will share their personal career journeys and provide detailed advice on specific graduate job opportunities.OptionalCommercial Sports Club Management 2024-25SBM2012MLevel 52024-25The module examines significant areas of club activity including participation, fan engagement, community interaction, and event/ tournament management. The module also examines legal and financial considerations in the management of members and memberships, players, staff and visitors. Analysing sports business challenges incorporates contemporary considerations such as environmental impact, sustainability, responsible management, safeguarding, equality, diversity, inclusion, social injustice and community issues.CoreEthics, Sustainability and Responsibility 2024-25MGT2291MLevel 52024-25This module builds on the principles of the United Nations Global Compact and the purpose of the Principles of Responsible Management Education, as well as the essence of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, Vision 2050, to develop the knowledge, skills, and capabilities of students to be future creators of sustainable value for business, and to work towards an increasingly inclusive society and a more sustainable global economy. This involves rethinking and reengineering business strategies and activities, to understand organisational constructs and influences, as well as that of their own agency, to be the change that produces and secures economic, social, and environmental value for current and future generations. This means systematically examining contemporary business, economic development, and the historic relationships with a Eurocentric social-cultural construct within global commerce and management, to discover a fairer and increasingly viable future. As a consequence, this module will ask students to explore and reflect on responsible management, sustainability, and ethical practice, as well as the resultant effects on global society, and the environmental costs created by human interaction as they analyse and evaluate contrasting strategies and approaches. This will not only provide a better understanding of the challenges of responsibly managing sustainability and ethical practice but will also identify and emphasise the questions to be addressed in respect of their future management endeavours.CoreAdvanced French for Business 3 2024-25MOD2585MLevel 52024-25OptionalAdvanced French for Business 4 2024-25MOD2586MLevel 52024-25OptionalAdvanced German for Business 3 2024-25MOD2587MLevel 52024-25OptionalAdvanced German for Business 4 2024-25MOD2588MLevel 52024-25OptionalAdvanced Spanish for Business 3 2024-25MOD2589MLevel 52024-25OptionalAdvanced Spanish for Business 4 2024-25MOD2590MLevel 52024-25OptionalBusiness English and Communication A 2024-25MOD2370MLevel 52024-25This module is only for students whose first language is not English. The aim of the module is to enable students to communicate successfully in the international business world. The module focuses on a range of business skills that can be applied in a global context, as well as the skills and themes associated with working in a foreign country or dealing with international businesses. The module places an emphasis on independent study. The module aims to strengthen and consolidate existing communicative competence and introduce new skills. Students can learn persuading, influencing, negotiating and problem solving skills. There is the opportunity to develop a broad critical understanding of cultural issues and their impact on businesses.OptionalBusiness English and Communication B 2024-25MOD2371MLevel 52024-25This module is only for students whose first language is not English. The aim of the module is to enable students to communicate successfully in the international business world. The module focuses on a range of business skills that can be applied in a global context, as well as the skills and themes associated with working in a foreign country or dealing with international businesses. The module places an emphasis on independent study. The module aims to strengthen and consolidate existing communicative competence and introduce new skills. Students can learn persuading, influencing, negotiating, and problem solving skills. There is the opportunity to develop a broad critical understanding of cultural issues and their impact on businesses.OptionalClient Based Project 2024-25TOU2034MLevel 52024-25The basis of this module is that students work in groups to undertake a live project, with a particular critical focus, for a tourism/events/sports local employer as client. Students are encouraged to think of themselves as graduate trainees, who under the direction of their tutor as a consultancy project director, undertake research, evaluate and synthesise the information acquired, and present it to their client with recommendations. This process will enable students to gain insights into the internal and external environments in which organisations operate, and put into practice some of the frameworks acquired in the degree programme to date as a response to a client brief.OptionalCore Chinese for Business 3 2024-25MOD2592MLevel 52024-25OptionalCore Chinese for Business 4 2024-25MOD2605MLevel 52024-25OptionalCore French for Business 4 2024-25MOD2594MLevel 52024-25OptionalCore French for Business 3 2024-25MOD2593MLevel 52024-25OptionalCore German for Business 3 2024-25MOD2595MLevel 52024-25OptionalCore German for Business 4 2024-25MOD2596MLevel 52024-25OptionalCore Italian for Business 4 2024-25MOD2609MLevel 52024-25OptionalCore Italian for Business 3 2024-25MOD2608MLevel 52024-25OptionalCore Spanish for Business 3 2024-25MOD2603MLevel 52024-25OptionalCore Spanish for Business 4 2024-25MOD2604MLevel 52024-25OptionalDesigning Immersive Visitor Experiences 2024-25TOU2236MLevel 52024-25The purpose of this module is to critically examine the meaning of visitor experiences within the context of tourism, events, and sports business management to allow graduates of the undergraduate suite of degrees to be able to design and deliver positive and impactful experiences. The module focuses on how meaning is anticipated, created, and remembered in a variety of contexts and how experiences, and meaning, can be enhanced through the development and delivery of inclusive and immersive practices in a range of contexts. To that end the module engages students with multi-faceted, interdisciplinary, debates around several key themes: The concept of experience. The innate human need to have tangible and intangible experiences and the role of tourism, events, and sports business management in meeting those needs. Intersectionality and inclusive experiences. Multi-sensory approaches to creating accessible, inclusive, and memorable experiences. Emotion in visitor experiences and its impact on the acts of engagement and remembering. The role of experiences in the creation and communication of narratives around identity/ies through souvenirs and social media. The importance and impact of Decolonisation in creating multivocal and representative cultural experiences. The themes will be critically examined through three-hour workshops that cover the theoretical concepts underpinning them, case studies of how these themes are represented in practice, and the application of theory and practice to solve a real-life problem relating to the theme. It is intended that this will not only develop students theoretical and practical knowledge, but will build time management, research, communication, critical analysis, team working, and problem-solving skills. We will embed case studies and application exercises covering each cohorts subject, and whilst students will focus on their area they will share their findings with the whole group in the sessions and via Black Board to help build their knowledge of the theme in other contexts.OptionalDigitalisation and Cultures in Tourism, Events and Sports Business Management 2024-25TOU2233Level 52024-25The purpose of this module is to explore how digitalisation and automatization are impacting the fields of tourism, events, and sports business management. The emergence of digital cultures because of this aggressive digital expansion is fascinating within the three fields. Known for their need for a high number of employees and people management, the three industries are being automated and digitalised at an unprecedented speed. AI and chat bots are replacing customer service; service and social robots are efficiently replacing the human workforce across these three sectors. The remaining human workforce is required to adapt and embrace technological advances at an unprecedented speed. This leads to changes in thought patters, work patterns, organisational structures and cultures across the board. The emergence of a digital economy has significantly influenced the nature of tourism, events and sport business management and marketing. Cultural and technological shifts seem to have not only led to a further proliferation of events for example but altered expectations as people place higher value on innovation and creativity. Moreover, the way destinations, attractions, and other tourism related activities and aspects, or events are developed, promoted, and experienced, or sports clubs and fan engagement is designed, continue to change as cultures and technologies interact. Participatory cultures mean that audiences and delegates interact in physical space and cyberspace in different ways; the experience can no longer be scripted and controlled. The way people consume experiences shifts, as they engage in social media, in an environment which is both diverse and rich in content and networks; events are multi-media, mixing traditional face to face interaction, with animated, visual, augmented and audio channels. Attendees expect to be able to communicate, connect, learn, and work whenever and wherever they want including while engaging with tourism, events, or sports, whilst travelling or at leisure. industry narratives are being constructed in cyberspace, shifting the way destinations, events, attractions, and service providers are understood and imagined. This module explores the interaction of contemporary cultural shifts (including networked and participatory cultures) and technological change.OptionalIntermediate French for Business 3 2024-25MOD2597MLevel 52024-25OptionalIntermediate French for Business 4 2024-25MOD2598MLevel 52024-25OptionalIntermediate German for Business 4 2024-25MOD2600MLevel 52024-25OptionalIntermediate German for Business 3 2024-25MOD2599MLevel 52024-25OptionalIntermediate Spanish for Business 3 2024-25MOD2601MLevel 52024-25OptionalIntermediate Spanish for Business 4 2024-25MOD2602MLevel 52024-25OptionalInternational Business Environment 2024-25ECO2205Level 52024-25This module explains the gains to be made from economic integration and the globalisation process. It examines the main patterns of trade and exchange and shows how free trade can be influenced by the government and the future risks of protectionism. Trade is also supported by international capital markets and exchange rate determination as well as international policy coordination and these factors need to be well understood.OptionalLIBS International Year Abroad 2024-25MGT2286MLevel 52024-25Lincoln International Business School (LIBS) believes that an option to study overseas is a valuable educational opportunity for our students. The optional year is intended to: -enable students to benefit from studying similar subjects within a cross cultural environment, by exposing students to a wider academic and cultural experience; -facilitate reflexivity in learning and personal and professional development; -enhance their future employment opportunities by increasing their cultural and professional mobility. This module is optional for all taught on campus undergraduate students within Lincoln International Business School. Study Abroad is a year long module which enables students to spend time studying abroad at one of the Universitys approved partner institutions. During the year spent abroad, students share classes with local students and study on a suite of locally-delivered taught modules which have been approved in advance by the University. As many partner institutions support internships it is anticipated that some students will elect to combine study (minimum one semester equivalent) with work and or a period of volunteering. Eligible students must have completed their second year of study to a satisfactory standard (normally with an average of a 2.2 or above, dependent upon partner requirements) standard and successfully completed the application process. Upon completion of the study period abroad, each student will be required to submit a portfolio including a reflection on the experience of living and studying in a different cultural environment and the skills acquired.OptionalManaging Events, Tourism and Sports Projects 2024-25TOU2037Level 52024-25OptionalProfessional Practice 2024-25MGT2037MLevel 52024-25This module is aimed at those students who have decided to take a year out of formal studies to gain accredited work experience and are registered on a degree programme with an accredited professional practice element. The Professional Practice Year aims to give students a continuous experience of full-time work within an organisation. It should be a three-way cooperative activity between employer, student, and the University from which all parties benefit. Students can choose to pursue a variety of options including a placement year, a consultancy project or a work-based dissertation. Potential costs relating to this module are outlined in the Features tab.OptionalSponsorship in Sport and Events 2024-25SBM2021Level 52024-25OptionalSport, Culture and Society 2024-25SBM2020Level 52024-25This module will examine the complex and intersecting social and cultural world in which sport belongs. The physical, emotional and social space that sport is rooted within provides the basis for this module which explores the intricate way that athletes and sporting stakeholders engage with sports culture.OptionalStudy Abroad Replacement Credit (1) 2024-25MKT2157MLevel 52024-25Students can elect to study up to 60 credits abroad at one of our partner universities , usually in the second semester. Usually students will elect to study for a semester and take 60 credits of study.OptionalStudy Abroad Replacement Credit (2) 2024-25MKT2158MLevel 52024-25Students can elect to study up to 60 credits abroad at one of our partner universities , usually in the second semester. Usually students will elect to study for a semester and take 60 credits of study.OptionalStudy Abroad Replacement Credit (3) 2024-25MKT2159MLevel 52024-25Students can elect to study up to 60 credits abroad at one of our partner universities , usually in the second semester. Usually students will elect to study for a semester and take 60 credits of study.OptionalStudy Abroad Replacement Credit (4) 2024-25MKT2160MLevel 52024-25Students can elect to study up to 60 credits abroad at one of our partner universities , usually in the second semester. Usually students will elect to study for a semester and take 60 credits of study.OptionalCritical and Intersecting Issues in Sports Management 2025-26SBM3009MLevel 62025-26This module will critically examine international contemporary sports business management issues and how these relate to wider socio-cultural issues.CoreCritical Industry Insights 2025-26TOU3124MLevel 62025-26The purpose of the module is to expose students to relevant industry insights, perspectives, opinions, and experiences and facilitate a critical understanding of working in the tourism, events, and sports business industries. Life-long learning and value creation are necessary elements in the successful development and progression of a tourism, events, and sports business professional. The module aims to empower students and guide their development into reflexive, ethical, and responsible tourism practitioners by exposing them to industry practitioners, their practices, and experiences. As a result, students will be able to demonstrate that they have life-long learnings skills to sustain effectiveness and value creation in a global-local business environment within the tourism, events, and sports business industries and beyond. Throughout the module, students will be able to apply graduate knowledge and a local and global mindset in a manner which is consistent with sustainable development goals. The module content, theories and guest speakers will facilitate a critical discussion on the nature of the tourism, events and sports business working environment and will support their job hunting and career mapping after graduation. Exposure to concepts such as cultural capital and emotional capital, as well as coaching in the workplace will help develop student employability, resilience, and emotional intelligence. The module will discuss practical applications of change management, industry resilience, innovation, and creativity management for the three sister industries, as well as in relation to professional development and the student as future industry professional. It is vital to reflect on how change management, creativity management and innovation management theory can help the industry as well as the tourism, events, and sports business professional. Understanding of industry application of these key theories enhances the resilience and adaptability of those working in them. Students will be able to utilise evidence and critical thinking as the basis for creative problem solving and to inform responsible decision-making within the tourism, events, and sports business industries. Exposure to industry professionals and networking opportunities will support students to be effective communicators within diverse stakeholder contexts within the tourism, events and sports business industries and the wider economy. After completion of this module students should be able to contribute to the development of inclusive, responsible, and resilient tourism, events, and sport business industries.CoreGovernance and Policy in Sport 2025-26SBM3008MLevel 62025-26This module is designed to explore the development of governance and policy for sport within a business environment. The evolution of sports policy development will be investigated and will provide the historical context on which this module is based. The important role of national agencies in developing their governance structures and policies will be considered in some detail at local, regional, national and international levels. Furthermore, sport policy, planning, and governance will be a key focus of this module and the relationships between the different sectors will be addressed. Theoretical examinations will be based on sociological, financial, political, and economic principles in relation to the position of sport in society. Students are encouraged to research a range of contemporary issues in sport policy and planning formulation and where possible to relate them to industrial practices. The lecture will be theoretically based and used to provide insight and depth to the socio-political world surrounding sports governance. The seminar activities will provide a student-centred learning approach and are designed to provide relevant, critical content in a collaborative manner. Students will be enabled to uncover their unconscious biases and will conduct wider research and reading into diverse ethnic, racial, social, and cultural perspectives which are ingrained within the governance structures and help shape the structure of policies. This module will be assessed by two individual assessments. A policy brief (worth 30% of the overall grade) will critically evaluate a contemporary sports policy issue / or governance structure of a sport with a view to recommend an improved future alternative. The second part of the assessment is a report worth 70% of the overall grade which will critically investigate sports policy and governance with a focus on social and economic factors. Students will present a critical argument looking at the current content of sports policy and governance within the UK. This will be compared with other countries planning which will allow students the vision to look at wider ethnic, racial, social, and cultural perspectives.CoreStrategy 2025-26MGT3286Level 62025-26CoreEntrepreneurship and Intrapreneurship in Tourism, Events and Sports Business Management 2025-26TOU3125MLevel 62025-26The purpose of the module is to expose students to various theoretical and practical aspects of entrepreneurship and new business venture creation in tourism, events, and sports business management. The role of entrepreneurship within the fields of tourism, events, and sports business management is vital. The current global economic and business climate requires graduates within these fields to be entrepreneurial and proactive. The module introduces students to key concepts related to entrepreneurship and new business venture creation, but also considers intrapreneurship and the application of entrepreneurial mindsets within the workplace, as well as dynamic careers where full time employment is complemented by a small entrepreneurial venture. The module aims to equip students with confidence and a desire to take their exploration of entrepreneurship further. The module will be delivered using a range of teaching and learning approaches. This strategy includes contemporary case studies designed to develop an understanding on theory application into practice. Where relevant, entrepreneurial academics, business start-up graduates, intrapreneurs, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals will be invited to share their knowledge and experience. Through the formative and summative assessment strategy, students will be encouraged to develop their own approaches to entrepreneurship, business start-up, intrapreneurship and consider entrepreneurial careers. The module considers entrepreneurship in different country contexts, the social and cultural dimensions of entrepreneurship, case studies from a wide range of tourism, events and sports business sectors, and industry perspectives and examples are included.OptionalFuturology in Tourism, Events, and Sports Business Management 2025-26TOU3122MLevel 62025-26Futurology or futures studies, futures research, or futurism is the systematic, interdisciplinary, and holistic study of social and technological advancement, and other environmental trends, often for the purpose of exploring how people will live and work in the future. In a changing world and industry, highly vulnerable to outbreaks, climate change, political and social unrest, and other highly damaging disruptors, studying the potential futures of tourism, events and sports business management is important. The purpose of the module is to introduce students to tools and approaches related to the study of tourism, events, and sports futures such as scenario planning. The skills developed throughout the module will support students navigate their post-graduation and job-hunting period, in their workplace, as well as in their long-term professional development. The methods studied here can be applied in a wide variety of contexts, from professional to self-development.OptionalIndependent Project - Research 2025-26TOU3128MLevel 62025-26The Final Independent Research Project, allows students to undertake a substantive piece of research in the context of both their chosen degree specialism and Lincoln International Business School's commitment to principles of responsible management. Research areas will be framed by areas of research expertise existing with relevant departments. Students will progress through guided research and workshops to supervised independent study.OptionalIndependent Project - Responsible Enterprise 2025-26TOU3130MLevel 62025-26Students can elect to undertake their final project as an enterprise project, culminating the development of a business plan for a new enterprise. Planned ventures will be framed by Lincoln International Business Schools commitment to Principles of Responsible Management and as such prospective start-ups will need to evaluate their proposed venture in the context of sustainable development. Student will be provided with appropriate academic support and business advice.OptionalIndependent Project- Negotiated Client Based Project 2025-26TOU3129MLevel 62025-26The Negotiated Client Based Project is an elective which develops the skills and understanding of what makes a successful consultant, whilst reviewing industry sustainability issues and what is needed to support a company through change. The Negotiated Client Based Project (NCBP) sits alongside other forms of independent study at Level 6 including (but not exclusively) Independent Research Project, or Independent Responsible Enterprise Project. Students are encouraged to learn and understand the challenges, opportunities and skills required by organisations to make effective decisions on behalf of a client in a live business environment. This module enables students to consider success and failure aspects of business and marketing within the context of LIBS commitment to Principles of Responsible Management and sustainable development.OptionalLive Events Management 2025-26TOU3121MLevel 62025-26The purpose of the Live Events Management module is to support the development of students as event managers. Students will build upon the knowledge acquired in the first and second year of their degree and put theory into practice to establish themselves as event organisers. Throughout the module students will acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in planning and executing a live event. The module will cover key areas in event management such as event design, sustainability in event practice, or event evaluation and legacy. Both highly successful event examples, complex event failures and a wide range of event management case-studies will be used to help students understand the events industry and events from a practical angle. Students will be able to organise a live event and reflect on their development as event mangers. Within each workshop group, students will be split into one of four sub-groups, namely a project management team, a marketing & PR team, an operations team, and a finance team. Each workshop group will work within these teams to organise an event for their chosen charity or university society. Students will then be able to reflect on and write about their experience organising a face-to-face, online or a hybrid event.OptionalNew Ways of Managing and Leading 2025-26MGT3287Level 62025-26Optional

What You Need to Know

We want you to have all the information you need to make an informed decision on where and what you want to study. In addition to the information provided on this course page, our What You Need to Know page offers explanations on key topics including programme validation/revalidation, additional costs, contact hours, and our return to face-to-face teaching.

How you are assessed

The way students are assessed on this course may vary for each module. Examples of assessment methods that may be used include coursework, such as written assignments, reports or dissertations; practical exams, such as presentations, performances or observations; and written exams, such as formal examinations or in-class tests. Assessments will mostly be individual tasks, but students may also be expected to work in a group on an assessment task.

Students will receive feedback throughout the term to help them prepare for assessments. This may be through formative assessment (such as ungraded presentations or mock questions), directed activities in seminars, or informal discussions with the seminar tutor. Formative feedback may not be written down, and maybe directed to a group as well as to an individual.

Students will also receive feedback on graded assessments. This usually includes comments detailing the quality of the work and how the student could improve their performance, as well as a highlighted criteria grid identifying performance against the assessed learning outcomes.

The University of Lincoln's policy is to ensure that staff return assessments to students promptly.

Work Placement Year

All full-time students on this course have the opportunity to take a year-long work placement after the second year. A work placement can allow students to gain valuable experience and apply their learning in practice. Students are expected to source their own placements and tutors can provide support and advice during this process if required.

Please note that students who choose to undertake a work placement do not pay tuition fees for that year, but are required to cover their travel, accommodation, and general living costs.

Study Visits

Students may be able to take part in optional study visits throughout the course to sports industry destinations. Students can expect to pay between £15 and £40 for each visit, which may be used for food, drinks, and admission fees to events and venues. Previous destinations have included London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and major UK football clubs. Compulsory study visits that are linked to core modules will typically be free of charge.

Broaden Your Horizons

Lincoln International Business School students can expand their horizons, visit our partner universities, and see international business in action by joining funded international trips to exciting overseas destinations. Places are awarded competitively to eligible students each academic year.

Our Field Trips

Industry Expertise

Students can hear from guest speakers who will share their industry expertise and professional practice experience. Recent speakers have included Lincoln City FC Marketing Manager, who explained the digital marketing and marketing strategies at Lincoln City FC; Commercial Director for Squash England, who discussed sponsorship of the sport; Race Director for Hull Marathon, who detailed the organisation of an event; and RAF Personal Training Instructor, who applied his experience to business outside of the military.

The course has played a huge role in my career in the football industry. I gained valuable knowledge and learnt from some very talented lecturers and tutors, which was crucial in helping me secure my job.

What Can I Do with a Sports Business Management Degree?

Sports Business Management graduates have gone on to work in a variety of sectors and industries. Some have gained employment at professional football clubs, national governing bodies, sports marketing agencies, and in the hospitality industry, business management, logistics, digital marketing, and advertising.

Working in Partnership

Lincoln International Business School works with students and organisations to enhance the contribution of business to society. For students, that means developing their business skills and knowledge to improve their career readiness.The University of Lincoln is a member of AACSB, a global nonprofit association connecting educators, students, and businesses to achieve a common goal: to create the next generation of great leaders.

About the AACSB

United Kingdom

A Level: BBC (112 UCAS Tariff points from a minimum 3 A Levels or equivalent qualifications).

International Baccalaureate: 29 points overall

BTEC Extended Diploma: Distinction, Merit, Merit or equivalent.

T Level: Merit

Access to Higher Education Diploma: 45 Level 3 credits with a minimum of 112 UCAS Tariff points.

A combination of qualifications which may include A Levels, BTEC, EPQ, etc.

Applicants will also need at least three GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, which must include English and Maths. Equivalent Level 2 qualifications may also be considered.

The University accepts a wide range of qualifications as the basis for entry. We will also consider applicants with extensive and relevant work experience and will give special individual consideration to those who do not meet the standard entry qualifications.

International

Non UK Qualifications:

If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages:

https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/entryrequirementsandyourcountry/ for information on equivalent qualifications.

EU and Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page:

https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/englishlanguagerequirements/

If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-sessional English and Academic Study Skills courses.

The University of Lincoln's International College also offers university preparation courses for international students who do not meet the direct entry requirements. Upon successful completion, students can progress to Bachelor's study at the University of Lincoln. Please visit https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/internationalcollege/ for more information.

If you would like further information about entry requirements, or would like to discuss whether the qualifications you are currently studying are acceptable, please contact the Admissions team on 01522 886097, or email admissions@lincoln.ac.uk

Fees and Scholarships

Going to university is a life-changing step and it's important to understand the costs involved and the funding options available before you start. A full breakdown of the fees associated with this programme can be found on our course fees pages.

Course Fees

For eligible undergraduate students going to university for the first time, scholarships and bursaries are available to help cover costs. The University of Lincoln offers a variety of merit-based and subject-specific bursaries and scholarships. For full details and information about eligibility, visit our scholarships and bursaries pages.

Find out More at an Open Day

The best way to find out what it is really like to live and learn at Lincoln is to join us for one of our Open Days. Visiting us in person is important and will help you to get a real feel for what it might be like to study here.

Book Your Place

Student walking together on campus in the summer

BA (Hons)
Sports Business Management

Key Information

Duration

Typical Offer

Campus

Validation Status

UCAS Code

Academic Year

United Kingdom

International