This programme is intended for students with a primary degree in Sport, Recreation or Leisure Management, Sport, Exercise or Health Science or Business Studies. Students with a primary degree in other disciplines may also be considered. An upper second class honours, or international equivalent is typically required. Applicants must demonstrate a knowledge and passion for sport and sport related business. Experience working in sport is desirable. An interview with the Programme Director will also form part of the application process.

Official transcripts of undergraduate degrees
2 official reference letters (including letterhead, date & address)
A CV
A personal statement (outlining your suitability for the programme, your motivations for pursuing a career in Sport Management, etc.)
Substantial relevant work experience or experiential learning may be considered as an alternative entry route.

Due to the volume of applications received, early application to the programme is encouraged.

Applicants whose first language is not English must also demonstrate English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0 in each element), or equivalent. Students meeting the programme’s academic entry requirements but not the English language requirements, may enter the programme upon successful completion of UCD’s International Pre-Master’s Pathway programmes.

Please see the following link for further information: https://www.ucd.ie/alc/programmes/pathways/int%20pmp/

These are the minimum entry requirements – additional criteria may be requested for some programmes

You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage. https://tinyurl.com/2ae2ffax

The application process for this programme closes on Friday 30th May 2025. We will endeavour to respond to all complete applications by Friday 6th June 2025. (Late Applications may be considered up to June 30th 2025, although we strongly advise applying as soon as possible).

Commencing September 2025

This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.

Social

The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.

Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.

Enterprising

Enterprising people like situations that involve using resources for personal or corporate economic gain. Such people may have an opportunistic frame of mind, and are drawn to commerce, trade and making deals. Some pursue sales and marketing occupations. Many will eventually end up owning their own business, or in management roles in larger organisations. They tend to be very goal-oriented and work best when focused on a target. Some have an entrepreneurial inclination.

Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

Careers & Employability
Our graduates who possess skills in the core management areas, are highly valued by employers within the Sports industry. Many graduates are working in Ireland and internationally in a range of areas including national governing bodies, international sport federations, sports marketing and event management agencies, professional sports teams and community sport organisations. Other recent graduates are pursuing PhD research in a range of sport related fields.

Our graduates are employed in organisations such as:
• World Rugby
• Football Association of Ireland
• GAA
• Irish Rugby Football Union
• Sport Ireland
• Ireland Active
• Leinster Rugby
• Connacht Rugby
• Munster Rugby
• Racing Post
• Paddy Power
• Sports Marketing & Events Agencies
• Rugby Players Ireland
• Local Sports Partnerships
• Dublin City Council