A Unique Degree...
The first online graduate program in sports leadership, students benefit by learning from experts in the fields of sports administration and leadership. The School of Leadership and Professional Advancement is the recipient of numerous honors including the Outstanding Leadership Program Award from the Association for Leadership Educators and Distinguished Credit Program Awards from the Association for Continuing Higher Education. The John F. Donahue Graduate School of Business is included among the one-third of all Schools of Business that are accredited by the AACSB International.
Current students include collegiate team coaches, senior directors, ticket managers and other professionals representing major league baseball, stadiums, minor league baseball and more.
Core Competencies
The knowledge and skills attained through the MSSL will enable sports administrators, managers and employees to add increased value to their organizations. Students will cultivate an ability to lead and refine critical thinking and problem solving abilities. As part of a peer-learning network, sports professionals will better understand current industry issues in law, negotiation, market research and sales. Upon completion, students will:
Program Structure
This 36-credit master's degree is available entirely online and can be completed in two years. The academic year is structured with three semesters per year: two 15-week terms in fall and spring and one 8-week term in summer. Students have online access to learning resources and support services including the Duquesne University Library, online writing center, and contact with faculty and advisors.
Curriculum
The MSSL provides a comprehensive 36-credit curriculum that addresses sports leadership from a management perspective and emphasizes the application of ethics and leadership in the contemporary business environment.
Please submit your name and mailing address to request a graduate degree brochure.
Program Administration
John M. Lanasa, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department Chair of Marketing
Director, Sports Leadership Program
Steven Greenberg, Executive in Residence, Sports Marketing (formerly Vice President of Marketing and Ballpark Development, Pittsburgh Pirates)
Associate Director, Sports Leadership Program
"The Sports Leadership program at Duquesne has proven to be beneficial to my professional growth threefold: (1) As a coach, the delivery format has allowed me to further my education while maintaining a rigorous coaching schedule; (2) continuing my education at Duquesne has been the catalyst for renewing, refocusing and revitalizing my leadership style and approach; and (3) the Program has exposed me to new theory that will advance my breadth and depth of knowledge, and better prepare me for future leadership roles within athletics."
~ Ron Rolston, Head Coach, USA Hockey's U-18 National Team
"There are a lot of programs that can teach students the nuts and bolts of sports business and sports marketing. It's unique that Duquesne is trying to incorporate the aspect of leadership into its curriculum. It serves students well to learn to operate and negotiate from a position of ethical strength."
Mark Hart, Director of Business, Pittsburgh Steelers
"The backbone for success in any program is its substance, and Duquesne's online sports leadership program is a tremendous way for the busy professional to take their career to the next level with one of the top sports leadership programs in the country."
~ Len Komoroski, President, Cleveland Cavaliers
