Sport Administration Program
Doctoral Degree
Philosophy
The doctoral specialization at Florida State is designed to prepare individuals for employment in colleges as teachers and researchers; and for administrative leadership positions in a variety of settings, including private businesses, professional and college athletics, and administration in higher education, depending on the individual's previous training and work experience. Research is a major endeavor and concentrates on the understanding and interpretation of research literature as well as the ability to conduct both theoretical and applied studies. This program is designed for individuals who wish to pursue careers in higher education as a researcher and a graduate faculty member. The program of study will have a strong emphasis in the theoretical knowledge base and research paradigms needed to conduct theoretical research, as well as the knowledge base required to supervise graduate student research. The research emphasis of students in this program will normally be directed toward the testing of theoretical administrative questions and models applied to the areas of sport and physical education. This program affords the student an opportunity to take Doctoral level courses in several sport management content areas, as well as gain valuable teaching experience prior to graduation.
Components
Prerequisite Core - The prerequisite core classes are intended for those who have not had exposure to the sport industry previously through a sport management undergraduate or graduate degree. These may be waived for those with prior exposure.
Qualifying Exam - This examination is given during the first year of the doctoral program and is intended to serve as an initial barometer of the students knowledge of the basic content areas in sport management. It is very similar to the Masters comprehensive examination as it is based upon the prerequisite core. Successful completion of this exam is necessary for continuation in the program.
Statistics/research - A substantial portion of the students coursework will consist of courses that focus on research methodology and statistical analysis techniques. Offered through the COE, these courses serve as the basis for preparing and completing the Dissertation, as well as developing a sustainable research agenda.
Core Seminars - The doctoral core seminars cover several critical sport management content areas and are designed to expose the student to advanced and current research being conducted on the sport industry. In depth analysis and discussion of research in the sport and broader management areas are designed to facilitate the student developing their critical analysis skills, their own theoretical frameworks and research agendas. Examinations in the seminars will prepare the student for the preliminary (candidacy) examination.
Preliminary Exam - This examination must be passed prior to being admitted into candidacy. Its content will be individualized for each student and will be determined by his or her committee. The format of the examination will be determined by the committee. The doctoral core seminars will serve as partial preparation for this examination. An oral defense of the examination may be required by the committee.
Dissertation - The dissertation is the culmination of the program, affording the student the opportunity to demonstrate their mastery of the scholarly skills in which they have been trained. The document will provide a way for the results of the students' efforts to enter the stream of knowledge. A well-written, carefully crafted document, based on sound research, grounded in the theory and principles of the sport management discipline attests to the students' readiness to contribute to the future of our discipline.
Doctoral Advising Guide 2008 (docx format)
Admissions/Application Information
Minimum Admissions Requirements
- All applicants for the masters degree program must obtain a minimum score of 1000 on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) with a minimum of 400 on both the quantitative and verbal components.
- A minimum grade point average of 3.0 on upper division average, and Masters degree in a related field.
- Doctoral admits require a faculty sponsor
Applicants must also provide the following:
- Three letters of recommendation addressing capabilities for graduate study.
- A letter of intent which describes your research interests and work experience as it relates to sport administration, short and long term goals, career aspirations, and why you chose to apply to Florida State University.
- Official transcript(s) from all previously attended colleges and/or universities.
- GRE Scores.
- A current resume.
* The above listed are minimum requirements for consideration for admission. Admissions decisions are made on a competitive basis and meeting the minimum requirements is not a guarantee of admission.
** To ensure complete consideration of your application file, ALL of the above listed materials must be submitted prior to the stated deadline.
For additional admissions information, you may contact:
Dr. Jeffrey James
Graduate Program Director
Office: 110 Tully Gym
Phone (850) 644-9214
Email: james@coe.fsu.edu

