Becoming an athletic director (AD) offers passionate professionals the opportunity to positively impact student-athlete development and influence the culture of school-based sports programs. Athletic directors lead and support coaching staffs, athletic administrators and student-athletes, while also serving as a vital link between the athletic department and school administration. ADs are responsible for creating the athletic experience for students, managing budget and operations, and aligning athletics with an institution’s mission.
Becoming an AD typically requires a combination of education, experience and leadership skills. Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s online Master of Science (M.S.) in Sports Administration – General program provides the tools, knowledge and confidence necessary for a career in sports administration. In this article, you’ll learn what athletic directors do, the path to becoming one and how this advanced degree in sports administration can help you reach your goals.
What Does an Athletic Director Do?
An athletic director is an administrator responsible for overseeing an athletic department within an educational institution or organization, such as a college, high school or district program. ADs manage the day-to-day operations of the athletic department, which includes scheduling, budgeting, staffing, compliance and program development. Here are some of the most common responsibilities of ADs:
- Communication and collaboration: Communicate scheduling, deadlines, compliance and health and safety information to staff, students, parents, school administration and stakeholders involved in athletic programs
- Compliance: Ensure adherence to local, state and national rules, regulations and eligibility requirements
- Financial oversight: Prepare and manage department budgets, including team travel, equipment, overhead and facility expenses
- Fundraising and public relations: Promote and market teams and student-athletes, seek funding opportunities and manage public relations
- Facility maintenance: Oversee the upkeep, repair and upgrades for all athletic facilities
- Personnel supervision: Hire, evaluate, and support athletic and administrative personnel
- Schedule management: Develop and schedule activities and events and manage ticketing software and support
- Representation: Represent the athletic department at networking functions, community events and public meetings
- Risk management: Monitor safety protocols and procedures to reduce risks associated with athlete participation
- Strategic planning: Create and implement long-term plans to support the success and sustainability of the athletic department
Key Skills for Athletic Directors
Athletic directors are strategic leaders who balance leadership, communication, organization and strategic thinking. Here’s a closer look at the skills that lead to a successful career in sports administration:
- Communication and interpersonal skills: ADs work closely with coaches, students, officials, parents and administrators. Strong communication helps build trust, manage expectations and resolve conflicts.
- Financial and technical knowledge: Budgeting, resource allocation, and fundraising are significant parts of the job. ADs should understand the rules and regulations of local, state or national governing bodies, such as the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). ADs should also have the technical skills to coordinate events, manage schedules and oversee daily operations.
- Leadership and management skills: Athletic directors oversee staff, develop strategy and create a culture within an athletic department.
Steps to Become an Athletic Director
Becoming an athletic director requires a bachelor’s degree in a related field, a master’s degree and certification, such as the one offered by the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA). Hands-on experience in coaching and sports administration is also important. Below are the steps to take in your AD journey:
- Education: Obtain a bachelor’s degree in sports management, physical education, business or a related field. A master’s degree in sports management or sports administration can prepare you for a leadership role in an athletic organization.
- Experience: Experience in coaching, business and/or fundraising is foundational for successful administrators.
- Skill building: Taking part in seminars, workshops or continuing education courses builds communication, leadership and organizational management skills.
- Networking: Joining professional organizations like the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) and participating in conferences can connect you with other professionals and keep you current on industry trends.
Inside the Online Master’s in Sports Administration Experience
The online M.S. in Sports Administration – General program delivers a comprehensive curriculum for professionals looking to advance their careers in sports management. In addition to the general track, Southeastern offers specialized programs in business, educational leadership, leadership, Native American leadership and strategic communication.
The program is built for working professionals, made accessible through an affordable, flexible online format and adaptable pace that supports career development without requiring time away from work. With robust student services like academic support, technology assistance and Distance Education Library Services, program participants are prepared to succeed at their own pace.
Jump-Start Your Athletic Director Career Today
With a leadership-driven curriculum and foundation in sports administration, the online M.S. in Sports Administration – General program prepares professionals with the skills, confidence and knowledge to step into the role of athletic director. Graduates have the administrative, coaching and sports science knowledge needed to help their athletic programs and athletes thrive.
For more information, contact the admissions team. Explore Southeastern’s online M.S. in Sports Administration – General program and begin your career in athletics administration