Graduates Who Go Places

Vermont State University's Athletic Leadership graduates have landed roles at organizations like West Point, Vanderbilt University, the Utah Mammoth (NHL), Special Olympics, and more. This program prepares you for professional positions in high school and university athletic departments, youth organizations, and beyond — with the specialized, applied training that competitive employers actually look for.

Built Around Your Schedule, Backed by Real Experience

Online and fully asynchronous, this program fits your life — complete it in as little as one year or take up to five. Small class sizes mean you get real attention, not just access. And the faculty teaching you aren't just academics — they're experienced professionals from across the country who bring the field into every course.

Vermont State's online M.S. in Athletic Leadership is built for coaches and athletic directors who are ready to step into department leadership or a head coaching role. Small classes, faculty drawn from organizations across the country, and a capstone you'll complete as an internship or special project applied directly to your work. Finish in as little as one year or take up to five, without leaving your current role.

• Choose from two concentration options to align with your interests.

• Complete in as little as one year.

• 4+1 Option available for VTSU B.S. Sport Management students. 

Athletic Leadership Degree (M.S.)

Vermont State University is Vermont’s public regional university, accredited by NECHE. With over 100 career-focused programs and a growing suite of flexible online options, Vermont State is committed to accessible, high-quality education. Vermont State University was formed through the unification of Castleton, Northern Vermont, and Vermont Tech.

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ONLINE GRADUATE

Affordable Education with Financial Support

Vermont State offers affordable tuition, making higher education accessible. A significant percentage of students receive financial aid, and Vermont State provides assistance in identifying scholarships and grants to support your education.

Flexible & Career-Focused Learning

Vermont State’s online programs are designed to help you gain the knowledge, credentials, and confidence to advance your career. With flexible formats and efficient pathways, our programs are designed to help you make meaningful progress on your degree—on a timeline that fits your life.

Athletic Administration

Running an athletic program takes more than a love of sport — it takes strategy, leadership, and operational know-how. The Athletic Administration concentration prepares you for the business side of athletics: managing programs, building budgets, navigating compliance, and leading organizations that compete at every level. Whether your sights are set on collegiate athletics, professional organizations, or beyond, you'll graduate ready to lead from the front office.

Athletic Leadership Concentrations

Coaching Leadership

Great coaches don't just develop athletes — they develop people. The Coaching Leadership concentration is built for those who want to lead with purpose, combining sports science, performance strategy, and the human side of athletic development. You'll strengthen your ability to motivate, communicate, and build cultures where athletes thrive. Whether you're already coaching or working toward it, this concentration gives you the tools to do the work at a higher level.

Program Highlights