The College of Education and Human Development's Sport Administration (SPAD) program at the University of Louisville prepares undergraduate and graduate students for a variety of management positions in the sport industry. The goals of the faculty and the program are to create an active learning environment for each student and to encourage students to demonstrate a commitment to education, community involvement, and their fellow students. A strong foundation in education, community service, peer networks, and alumni networks is invaluable to students as they prepare to enter the sport industry. Exceptional theoretical and practical knowledge gained through the SPAD Program will also provide students with the foundation to become the next generation of leaders, decision makers, and managers in the sport industry.
The University of Louisville offers a Master of Science in Sport Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Sport Administration. We also offer a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Organizational Development. The SPAD program has a diverse student population representing a variety of geographical, cultural, educational, and professional backgrounds.
The UofL Sport Administration Club enhances and supports the educational experiences of its members by encouraging students to meet and listen to guest speakers, work with local organizations, attend conferences, plan and organize events, and visit and tour facilities. The club offers opportunities for members to become involved in the sport industry, provides access to industry professionals, and helps members prepare for their professional careers. The club also organizes extracurricular activities such as intramural teams, leadership and volunteer programs, and social outings at athletic events.
The Sport Administration Club traveled to Nashville in February 2012. Students toured Bridgestone Arena (home of the Nashville Predators) and LP Field (home of the Tennessee Titans). The group also met with the executive director of the Nashville Sports Commission. After enjoying some BBQ and music at the local honky-tonks, SPAD students cheered on the Predators as they took on their division rival the St. Louis Blues.
The 3rd Annual SPAD Speaker Summit was held in April at the PNC Club at Papa John's Cardinal Stadium. The event brought together alumni, students, and leading professionals in the sporting industry. The event featured panels on social media and professional networking including a keynote speech from Pat Forde of Yahoo! Sports.
On November 13, 2011, 144 participants competed in the Louisville Cornhole Cup that was organized by the UofL Sport Administration students and sponsored by Merrill Lynch. The tournament was held at Papa Johns's Cardinal Stadium.
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Graduate students in the CEHD's Sport Administration degree program competed in the 2011 National Sports Forum (NSF) Case Cup and won the annual competition.
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ESPN The Magazine identified UofL's Sport Administration program as the "go to" school for students wanting to work in college athletics. UofL's nationally approved curriculum together with the success of UofL Athletics under the leadership of Tom Jurich has created a dynamic and comprehensive learning environment for students wanting to work in college athletics.