McDonough Undergraduate Programs
McDonough Undergraduate Programs

Sports Business Fellows

Today’s sports industry is a fast-growing, multifaceted global enterprise that influences nearly every aspect of society – from economics and technology to culture and ethics. As the business of sports continues to expand, so does the demand for sharp, strategic thinkers who can combine their passion for the game with the skills to lead on a global stage. At Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business, undergraduate students can meet that challenge through the Sports Business Fellows program – a selective, hands-on fellowship designed to develop the expertise, mindset, and network needed to drive the future of this dynamic field.

Through specialized coursework, experiential learning, and engagement with senior industry leaders, Fellows will gain a deep understanding of the global sports marketplace and its connection to broader business and societal trends. Unlike other sport management programs, Georgetown’s approach prepares students to be business leaders first, applying core business principles through the lens of sports. With access to immersive classes, exclusive mentorship, speaker events, career advising, and industry connections, fellows will graduate ready to launch impactful careers in global sports business. 

Admissions


The fellowship program is open exclusively to McDonough undergraduate students. Applications will open in the Spring 2026 semester.

Program Overview and Requirements


The Sports Business Fellows program is open to undergraduate business students in good academic standing who demonstrate a strong interest in pursuing a career in or adjacent to the sports industry. Fellows must complete designated sports business coursework to maintain their standing in the program.

Core Requirements*

Elective Requirements**: Fellows must complete 6 credits from the following list:

*Indicates existing courses already offered – will not undergo changes to the syllabus, title, or course number.
**Courses listed above are in development and may be subject to change.
***Students should consult with their program advisor to plan their course schedule.

Contact

For academic questions: Contact the academic director, Professor Michael O’Leary
For admissions or application support: Contact the Sports Business Fellows program

All programs and activities are open to all Georgetown University students regardless of race, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age, or any other characteristic protected under University policy or applicable law.

Frequently Asked Questions

In Spring 2026, an application will become available to students who are interested in becoming a Sports Business Fellow.

The Sports Business Fellows program is available exclusively to Georgetown McDonough undergraduates. Students must be able to complete the 9-credit requirement prior to graduation; therefore, we encourage first-years and sophomores to apply. Juniors may apply, but they will have less time to access the benefits of the fellowship and less time to complete the 9 credits of coursework.

An application process will be announced in the Spring 2026 semester. A maximum of 40 students will be invited to join the inaugural cohort. 

No. Enrollment in The Business of Global Sports (STRT 2220) is strongly encouraged. 

No, this program is not a minor or credentialed certificate program. At the conclusion of taking the required 9-credit sequence and attending the required co-curricular activities, it will not show up on your degree audit or transcript. We encourage you to share this information on your LinkedIn profile or other professional channels. 

Sport Business Fellows will complete 9 credits. The duration varies depending on individual course planning. Students may apply for the program while taking The Business of Global Sports (STRT 2220) in Spring 2026. Fellowship activities may commence as soon as the summer after a student’s first year at Georgetown. Students who completed STRT 2220 in Fall 2025 will also be able to apply in the spring semester.

Students may select one of the pre-approved electives to count toward the Sports Business Fellows program. There are no substitute courses available at this time. 

Sports Business Fellows can pursue a variety of careers, including opportunities in venture capital, growth equity, consulting, media and technology, marketing, operations and analytics, and more. Review a list of sample roles and firms. 

Students should work with their advising dean to discuss course planning to satisfy these requirements.