Sports Ed Disrupted: Georgetown & Man City Launch Global Executive Master's

NEW YORK, NY – November 20, 2025

The intersection of sports and business is undergoing a significant evolution, demanding a new breed of leaders equipped to navigate a rapidly globalizing industry. Recognizing this need, Georgetown University’s School of Continuing Studies (SCS) and Manchester City Sports Business School (MCSBS) are partnering to launch an Executive Master of Professional Studies in Global Sports Operations & Strategy, set to begin in Fall 2026. This innovative program promises a unique blend of academic theory and practical, real-world experience, positioning itself as a key player in the future of sports education.

The Rise of Sports as a Global Business

The global sports industry is no longer simply about athletic competition; it's a multi-billion dollar ecosystem encompassing media rights, sponsorship, merchandising, technology, and increasingly, complex operational challenges. Valued at approximately $484 billion in 2023 with projections exceeding $600 billion in the near future, the industry is experiencing a period of sustained growth, driven by factors like increased internet accessibility, favorable government initiatives, and a burgeoning sports tourism sector. This growth, however, also necessitates a more professionalized workforce equipped with specialized skills. “The demands of running a modern sports organization are incredibly complex,” explains one industry consultant. “It's not enough to simply understand the game; you need to understand global finance, logistics, marketing, and data analytics.”

Georgetown and Manchester City aim to fill this gap by offering a curriculum focused on the operational and strategic intricacies of the sports industry. The program’s emphasis on global perspectives, coupled with the practical insights offered by the City Football Group, distinguishes it from more traditional sports management programs. A recent industry report from Deloitte underscored this shift, highlighting the need for leaders who can adapt to rapidly changing commercial models and navigate an increasingly complex regulatory landscape.

A Unique Partnership: Blending Academia and Industry Expertise

The collaboration between Georgetown SCS and Manchester City is at the heart of this new program. Georgetown's longstanding reputation for professional and continuing education, combined with Manchester City's operational excellence and global reach, creates a powerful synergy. This isn't simply an advisory partnership; it’s a deep integration of industry expertise into the academic curriculum. “We’re looking beyond traditional lectures and case studies,” says a program representative. “Students will have direct access to the people who are actually running a world-class sports organization.”

The program’s hybrid format—combining online learning with two week-long residencies—is designed to cater to the needs of working professionals. One residency will be held at City Football Academy in Manchester, U.K., providing an immersive experience within the club’s operational hub. The second will be hosted in New York City, at the future Etihad Park stadium—the planned home of New York City FC—offering insight into the burgeoning US sports market. This dual location strategy provides students with a truly global perspective on the business of sports. “The ability to learn from different cultures and operational models is incredibly valuable,” notes an industry observer. “It broadens your perspective and prepares you for the challenges of managing a global enterprise.”

Beyond the Game: Preparing Leaders for a Globalized Industry

The Executive Master’s program is specifically targeted at mid- to senior-level professionals, seeking to advance their careers in the sports industry. The curriculum will cover a range of topics, including sports finance, marketing, law, operations, and strategy, all viewed through a global lens. A key differentiator is the program’s emphasis on operational expertise. “Many sports management programs focus on the marketing and commercial aspects of the industry,” explains a source close to the program. “This program will delve deeper into the operational challenges of running a large-scale sports organization, from logistics and supply chain management to facility operations and event planning.”

The program also seeks to address the growing need for leaders who understand the complexities of operating in a globalized industry. With teams and fans spread across continents, sports organizations must navigate different cultures, regulations, and market conditions. The program’s international residencies and global case studies are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge to succeed in this complex environment. The future Etihad Park stadium, poised to become a landmark in New York City's sports landscape, will provide a fitting backdrop for students to analyze the challenges and opportunities of expanding a global brand into a new market. “The ability to adapt to different cultures and regulatory environments is essential for success in today’s global sports industry,” remarks an industry analyst. “This program appears to be well-positioned to address that need.”