From cycling to swimming and from fencing to football – there’s no doubt Qatar has firmly positioned itself as a global hub for world-class sporting events. The infrastructure development is visible on all fronts – from the new metro network to roads, stadia and hospitality facilities. However, what may not be so apparent is the demand for specialists with the right expertise and skills to manage, promote, and grow such high-profile sporting events.
To respond to market needs, Northwestern University in Qatar has partnered with Northwestern University School of Professional Studies in Chicago to bring the Master of Arts in Sports Administration (MSA) program to Qatar. MSA students build essential skills for the sports industry including marketing, sponsorship, operations, compliance, media relations, and more. Graduates earn their master's degree from Northwestern University — ranked ninth nationally among U.S. universities.
“This 11-course graduate program is suitable for people already working in the field who wish to advance their careers and those who aspire to enter the industry,” said Jairo Lugo-Ocando, director of the graduate and executive education program at NU-Q. He added, “The courses are led by instructors experienced in sports marketing and management who teach practical skills that students can apply in their everyday work.”
The master’s program is fully accredited by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education of the State of Qatar and 100 percent full scholarships are available for tuition fees. In addition, students can make the valuable connections that are essential to building a career in sports by networking with instructors and fellow classmates—current and future sports professionals themselves.
The curriculum is tailored around the needs of today’s busy professionals and provides the necessary flexibility by combining study online and on NU-Q’s Education City campus. Applications for the upcoming semester close on 15 April. For more information, you may visit https://sps.northwestern.edu/info/msa-qatar.php
