Overview
Gain the skills for a management career in sports, physical recreation or outdoor adventure, with a Bachelor of Sport Management at Victoria University.
You will learn the techniques of management and their application to the sport and physical recreation industries including:
- planning
- human resource management
- finance
- leadership
- marketing
- performance evaluation.
By the time you graduate, you’ll be confident and ready to manage professional sport organisations, major sporting events, and sporting facilities. You’ll also be prepared to manage community sport programs, social development projects, outdoor adventure activities, and active recreation experiences.
VU is a leading sport university, and you’ll benefit from our extensive sports and physical recreation industry partnerships. Our classroom activities are blended with online and practical learning. By undertaking work placements, you’ll develop professional connections before you even graduate.
Sport Management majors
After the first year of the course, you can choose between two specialist majors.
Sport & Active Communities major
You’ll explore community sport and its relationship with elite and professional sport. You will learn how it can be managed to optimise participant satisfaction, build sustainable communities, and deliver an overall improvement in economic and social value.
This major also covers team-sport management, gym and exercise program administration, and community-based physical activity programming.
Outdoor Recreation Leadership major
You’ll experience a diverse range of adventure programs. These will provide unique learning situations that help you to build a wide range of skills. For example, over 90 Outdoor Recreation and Outdoor Education students took part in a rogaining event that tested their navigation and endurance skills.
You’ll learn to plan, organise, and program complex outdoor adventure activities at the highest professional level. You’ll also develop highly valued character traits including integrity, cultural sensitivity, and psychological resilience.
Study at a leading sports university
Victoria University is one of Australia's most recognisable sport universities. We have an outstanding reputation in sport, exercise science, health and fitness.
We have gained this name through our extensive offering of sport-related courses and our world-class facilities. Also unique to VU is our significant research and partnerships, as well as our leading academic staff.
We have the largest number of students enrolled in sport courses, and more sports industry partners than any other university. We also have the most graduates working in the sport industry.
Sports industry connections
VU has strong, unique partnerships with more than 350 local, national and global organisations across the sport, exercise and recreation industries. These partnerships inform the content of our courses and provide joint research opportunities.
Our partnerships provide great opportunities for your career development including:
- lectures by industry experts
- exciting work placement opportunities
- environments for collaborative learning.
Our partners include:
- Western Bulldogs Football Club
- Australian Institute of Sport
- Victorian Racing Club
- Australian Sports Commission
- Real Madrid Football Club Foundation
- Beijing and German Sports Universities
- Sport Australia Hall of Fame
- National Heart Foundation
- VicHealth
- National Ageing Research Institute
- Football Federation Victoria
- Tennis Australia
- Western Health
- Australian Football League (AFL).
Career development and industry placement program
Everything you learn with VU has direct links to the real world. A key part of your studies will be experiencing the true nature of working in a professional sports environment in your industry placements.
You can choose your 70 hour and 140 hour placements based on your personal career aspirations.
We have qualified career specialists with a background in the sports industry who will support you. You’ll gain direct practical experience by taking what you learn in the classroom and applying it in the real world.
These placements will provide you with confidence and a competitive advantage in the workforce.
Placements and cadetships take place with VU partner organisations such as:
- Western Bulldogs Football Club
- Melbourne Storm
- Victorian Institute of Sport.
Unique learning experience
The Bachelor of Sport Management is the only course in Australia that studies sport management in the context of other disciplines.
This course draws on economics, sociology, psychology, anthropology, finance, geography, philosophy, law, architecture, and history. Taught by highly qualified professionals, these disciplines inform the study of management within the context of sport and recreation.
This course also uniquely blends the study of commercial, community and outdoor sport. Classroom activities are integrated with online learning. Through case studies, practical learning and industry networking, you’ll become confident with both theory and practice.
State-of-the-art facilities
You'll have access to the most comprehensive range of sport and exercise science facilities in the southern hemisphere, including a $68 million sport and learning precinct with specialised labs that support our world-class Institute for Health and Sport (IHES).
The facility is used by students, researchers, professional sports teams and community organisations.
At the Victoria University Community Sports Stadium you will learn alongside sport and recreation professionals. This stadium is a joint initiative with the Western Bulldogs.
Our facilities include:
- exercise physiology labs
- altitude hotel
- biomechanics labs
- motor learning and skilled performance labs
- heat chambers
- motor control and biofeedback labs
- integrated teaching and learning facilities.
VU received the highest possible ranking for human movement and sports science in the 2015 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) assessment. This ranking places us ‘well above world standard’.
Study overseas while earning course credits
At VU you can spend part of your degree studying overseas all while gaining credits towards your course.
Immerse yourself in a new culture and learn from a new perspective, while building experiences that will help you to stand out in the competitive job market.
Need some advice?
Request a call back from one of our experienced VUHQ course advisers to get your questions answered.
Request a call backCareers in sport and recreation
The sport, fitness and physical recreation industries play a crucial and significant role in the health and wellbeing of Australians. There are diverse and expanding career opportunities in this sector.
Graduates of our Bachelor of Sport Management will be ready to work in a variety of roles in the sport and physical recreation industry. You may work in commercial or community sport, or outdoor adventure. You’ll be qualified to manage sport organisations, facilities, and events.
The career opportunities are broad, and each of the majors provides many exciting options.
Sport & Communities major
You will be ideally placed to work as an administrator, officer or manager in:
- sport governing bodies
- sports clubs
- stadia and arenas
- local and state government agencies that focus on physical activity policies and issues
- gyms and leisure centres
- leisure planning and sport development units within local government spaces
- community welfare agencies
- youth work programs
- sports and leisure consultancies
- the motor or horse racing industry.
Outdoor Recreation Leadership major
You will be prepared to work as a sport management educator, leader or trainer for outdoor adventure programs in:
- schools
- outdoor adventure camps
- state government agencies
- adventure sport businesses
- corporate training consultancies
- local government community leisure units
- health education agencies
- youth work programs.
Salaries & job growth
Use Labour Market Insights to find job growth information and average salaries for various professions in Australia, including:
Further study
You could also go on to study a Master of Sport Business, which will enable you to enhance your professional capabilities, and show how they can be used to maintain sports’ reputation for fair play, inclusiveness, transparency and integrity. You could also move into an Honours program, which gives you the opportunity to build your research skills, and complete a major research project.
Course structure
To attain the Bachelor of Sport Management, students will be required to complete 288 credit points (equivalent to 24 units) consisting of:
-
96 credit points of First Year core units
- 192 credit points of core units
Course structure and units
First Year Core Units
-
- Unit code
- BAO1000
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- BEO1000
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- BHO1000
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- BLO1105
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- BMO1000
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- BSK1001
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SSM1102
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SSM1104
- Credits
- 12
Core Units
-
- Unit code
- BHO3421
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- BMO2005
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- BMO2009
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- BMO2014
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- BSK3001
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SSM2011
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- BMO3332
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SSM2003
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SOL3003
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SSM2104
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SSM2204
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SSM2205
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SSM3000
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SSM3103
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SSM3104
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SSM3204
- Credits
- 12
Achieve more with the VU Block Model
We are the first Australian university to use a 'block' model of learning, where you study one unit at a time rather than juggling several at once.
Introduced in 2018, the VU Block Model has improved our student results and achievements, and has won awards for innovation and excellence. Initially for first-year students, it now applies to all students studying at our Melbourne campuses.
You'll study in short bursts, called blocks, of three 2-3 hour face-to-face teaching sessions per week.
Each block focuses on one unit (subject) and is only four weeks long, with up to four days between. Our two semesters have four blocks each, and there are optional blocks over winter and summer where you can catch up on a missed unit.
Some courses have labs and pracs too, and these are generally scheduled on the same days as teaching sessions. There are also workshops where you'll develop your study skills and prepare for your future career.
Find out more about the VU Block Model.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
| 1. | Contextualise business knowledge and relevant business principles, in sport, and active recreation organisational settings; | ||
| 2. | Critically analyse organisational challenges, and adapt and apply related skills to the effective management of business, sport, and active recreation enterprises; | ||
| 3. | Investigate and creatively solve problems related to the management of enterprises in both the profit-based commercial business sector and the largely not-for profit sport, exercise, and active recreation sectors; | ||
| 4. | Exhibit professional judgement, ethical standards, and social sensitivity to provide inclusive, sustainable, and culturally relevant business, sport, and active recreation experiences; | ||
| 5. | Advocate a coherent and evidence-based reflection of industry knowledge and operational skills in both oral and written form to a range of audiences in both business and sport; | ||
| 6. | Reflect on personal learning and skills in relation to career goals with a view to implementing creative strategies to promote lifelong learning, and establishing pathways for the attainment of further professional development and vocational training; | ||
| 7. | Exhibit personal and interpersonal competencies, work-group skills and leadership abilities to the effective management of both business and sport related enterprises, while also accommodating the divergent and complex cultures of Australia and globally; and | ||
| 8. | Demonstrate personal accountability, integrity, and social responsibility for outcomes, and do it through dynamic 21st Century work-teams that use resources efficiently. |
What's a unit?
A unit or 'subject' is the actual class you'll attend in the process of completing a course.
Most courses have a mixture of compulsory 'core' units that you need to take and optional elective units that you can choose to take based on your area of interest, expertise or experience.
Credits
Each unit is worth a set amount of study credits based on the amount of time you study. Generally, 1 credit is equal to 1 hour of study per week.
Fees & scholarships
Fee type for this course: Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Fee type definitions
The amount you pay for your course depends on whether you’re offered a Commonwealth supported place (CSP) or a full fee-paying place.
Students who enrol in a:
- Commonwealth supported place pay tuition fees that are partly subsidised by the Australian government
- full fee-paying place need to pay the full amount for all enrolled units before census each study period.
In addition to your tuition fees, you may also be charged a Student Services & Amenities Fee (SSAF).
Scholarships & assistance
Apply for a scholarship to help with your study costs.
We can help with fee assistance and advice.
Admissions
Victoria University is committed to providing a transparent admissions process. Find out more about how to apply for our courses, and our commitment to admissions transparency.
Applicants for this course will need to have met the academic requirements and prerequisites for this course outlined below.
Meeting the minimum admission criteria does not guarantee entry into this course. Past academic performance may be considered.
Admission criteria
The minimum criteria for admission varies depending on your education background. If you’re not sure which criteria applies to you, use the help tool on this page or make an enquiry and we can assist.
Applicants with recent secondary education (within the last 2 years)
- Australian Senior Secondary Certificate (e.g. VCE) or
- an Australian or overseas equivalent or
- an International Baccalaureate (IB).
Importance of ATAR for this course
We consider both ATAR and other criteria
ATAR is not a consideration. We use other criteria
Admission criteria
Completion of an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate (VCE or equivalent) including Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or 20 in any other English.
Why is ATAR not applicable?
You will not need an ATAR score to meet the admission requirements for this course. Only the successful completion of your secondary school studies, and any additional prerequisites. Our courses and support programs are designed to prepare students from diverse cultures for success, regardless of their prior experience, ATAR, age, socioeconomic or educational background.
Applicants with vocational education and training (VET/TAFE) study
This information is for people who have completed an accredited award at an Australian Registered Training Organisation.
Admission criteria
Completion of an Australian Advanced Diploma or Diploma (or equivalent).
OR:
Completion of the Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation (or equivalent).
Applicants with higher education study
This information is for people whose highest level of study since leaving secondary education is a higher education course.
Admission criteria
Full or partial completion of an Australian Higher Education award (or equivalent).
OR:
Completion of a single unit of Higher Education studies.
OR:
Completion of a bridging or enabling course eg. Foundation course or equivalent.
Applicants with work & life experience
This information is for applicants who left secondary school more than two years ago and who have not undertaken VET or higher education study since then.
Admission criteria
Five years (minimum) work/life experience in Health or Human Sciences, Training & Development, Community Sports or similar.
OR:
Completion of an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate more than two years ago.
PLUS:
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or 20 in any other English (or equivalent).
Additional information
Students will require a Working with Children Check and National Police Check to be eligible to undertake and participate in workplace visits, placements or projects. Use the following site links to obtain additional information:
http://www.workingwithchildren.vic.gov.au/
http://www.police.vic.gov.au/content.asp?Document_ID=274.
Pathways & credits
There are many ways you can start your education journey at VU. Pathways offer an easy transition between courses at different levels, so that you can start with a certificate and progress right through to postgraduate study.
Pathways from VU courses
If you have completed any of the following course(s), you will be guaranteed a place in this course. In some cases you may receive credit for your previous study, reducing the time it takes to complete your course.
You will be guaranteed entry only.
You will be guaranteed entry only.
Find out more about pathways and credits.
Pathways from other institutions
If you have completed any of the following course(s), you will be guaranteed a place in this course. In some cases you may receive credit for your previous study, reducing the time it takes to complete your course.
PGA International Golf Institute, Australia
You will be credited for up to 96 credit points of study.
SEDA Group, Australia
You will be credited for up to 96 credit points of study.
SEDA Group, Australia
You will be credited for up to 96 credit points of study.
Find out more about pathways and credits.
Credit for skills and past study
Use our credit calculator to find out how much credit you could get towards your course, based on your previous study.
If you have completed study with another university or institution and believe you are eligible to receive credit for skills and past study, you can apply for advanced standing.
Applications for advanced standing can be made after a discussion with your course chair or academic adviser.
How to apply
Available start dates:
- 24 February 2025
- 28 July 2025
Before you apply
Before applying, you should consider whether you also want to apply for:
- Special admission programs: Depending on your life circumstances you may be eligible for special consideration of your application.
- Advanced standing: If you have significant experience or studies elsewhere you may be eligible for credit for some units of your course and not have to undertake them.
Find out more about applying for our courses.
Apply through VTAC
Apply through VTAC if any of the following apply to you:
- you are applying for more than one course
- you are completing Year 12 in 2023
- you have an existing VTAC application to study in 2024
VTAC very late applications are due 14 January 2025.
Apply via VTACSpecial Entry Access Scheme
You can apply for consideration of your life circumstances during the application process by submitting a VTAC Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) application.
Apply direct to VU
Apply directly to VU if any of the following apply to you:
- you are a current VU student
- you are only applying for this course and are not completing Year 12 in 2023
Direct applications are due on 16 February 2025 for our next intake which starts on 24 February 2025.
Already a VU student?
If you are already a VU student, apply direct to VU using our Admissions centre to transfer into this course. Remember it’s best to be accepted into your new course before withdrawing from your current one.
After you apply
- It’s important to check for emails from us (which may go to your spam/junk folder).
- Complete any requests for information by the given dates, otherwise your application may not be considered
Enquire now
Please fill out the form below, and we'll get back to you shortly.
Get help
- Visit a student service centre
- 1300 VIC UNI (1300 842 864)
- Request a call back
- Visit the glossary
At Victoria University, we aim to display accurate and complete course information online. However, we are unable to guarantee that every course change is currently displayed. You may contact the University directly on +61 3 9919 6100 to confirm the most up-to-date course fees, pathways and credit transfer, recognition of prior learning, admission and enrolment procedures, examinations and services available to our students.
