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Lipscomb University launches innovative graduate program to meet workforce demand in $2.5 billion sport analytics industry

Kim Chaudoin | 

A sport analytics expert works with athlete.

Lipscomb University is launching a new graduate program to meet workforce demand in the rapidly growing sport industry. Lipscomb’s new Master of Science in sport analytics is the first in Tennessee and one of only three programs in the southern United States. 

According to MarketsandMarkets.com the sport analytics industry generated more than $2.5 billion in revenues in 2021, with industry projections estimating a growth potential of 27% over the next five years. The program will train students for analytical positions in professional and collegiate sport as well as other entertainment and sport-related careers. 

“The field of sport analytics is expanding rapidly, encompassing everything from player performance to strategic game management,” said Andrew Mauldin, assistant professor of kinesiology and program director. “Our curriculum is meticulously crafted to prepare graduates not just to participate in, but to lead this dynamic industry.”

Andrew Mauldin

Andrew Mauldin

The program aims to equip students with advanced skills in data management, visualization and interpretation, crucial for careers in professional and collegiate sports, e-sports, finance, media and sports marketing agencies. With a comprehensive course offering that includes applied statistics, legal and ethical considerations in sport, consumer behavior analytics, predictive modeling, and intellectual property and Name, Image, Likeness, students will gain a holistic view of the industry’s analytical applications.

The program was strategically designed to align with industry needs. 

"Lipscomb’s program will connect students with cutting-edge thinking and processes in sport analytics at all levels,” said Lynette Austin, dean of the College of Health Sciences. “Our faculty are industry leaders who bring essential knowledge, experience and industry connections to deliver exceptional course content and learning opportunities. Students will be prepared at the highest level to be leaders at analyzing and leveraging data to make decisions with significant impact in the workplace industry.”

"The business analytics team here with the Blue Jackets is crucial to our entire organization every single day, especially in the ticketing world,” said Marty Mulford, vice president, ticket sales and service for the Columbus Blue Jackets. "The type and amount of detailed information they provide us can almost be overwhelming at times, but makes us 100x more efficient than we were even five years ago. Teams and sports organizations will continue adding more staff in these departments as things continue to move forward and a program like Lipscomb University’s will help prepare professionals for this growing need.”

With tuition set at $899 per credit hour, the program offers flexibility through its online asynchronous format, allowing students to complete their degree in as little as one year. Additionally, the program includes built-in capstone opportunities, expert faculty mentorship and extensive networking opportunities, further enhancing graduate employability and industry readiness.

Housed in Lipscomb’s Department of Kinesiology, classes will begin in August, pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Find more information here or contact Mauldin at 615-966-5751 or andrew.mauldin [at] lipscomb.edu (subject: Information%20about%20new%20Sport%20Analytics%20Master%27s%20Program) .