STUDY OPTIONS

OVERVIEW

STUDY LEVELS

BSc (Hons) Accelerated

UCAS CODE

N881

DURATION

2 Years

START DATE(S)

Sep / Jan / Apr

ENTRY YEAR

2026/27 | 2027/28

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

104

Old Trafford Stadium. Part of the UA92 Main Campus.

We are excited to announce the newest addition to our campus – the iconic Old Trafford stadium, home of Manchester United.

The stadium campus will become home turf for our students on Business of Football, Sports Management and Digital Marketing courses as well as providing occasional teaching spaces for other courses including Football Broadcasting and Journalism, bringing you closer to the action at one of the largest football stadiums in the UK.

Find out more

What you will learn

The BSc (Hons) Business of Football degree has been developed through consultation with Manchester United FC, Salford City FC, Altrincham FC, the Manchester FA and the English Football League. This unique collaboration means you will understand the biggest challenges and greatest opportunities football clubs tackle in the evolving world of professional football, as well as the strategies used to transform clubs into multi-billion-pound enterprises.

This course gives you a 360-view of the business side of football, with an in-depth insight into how clubs capitalise on current and emerging revenue streams. Get ready to gain valuable on-pitch and off-pitch experiences, discussing topics such as governance, player care, talent recruitment, sales, marketing, fan engagement, operations and cutting-edge AI applications, with a focus on the rapidly growing women’s game.

Dive into real-world scenarios, including innovative stadium and estate re-development at Real Madrid, Ryan Reynolds’ social media transformation of Wrexham AFC and Salford City FC’s journey from non-league to the football league. Evaluate how clubs such as Man Utd identify talent and support players. Benefit from guest lectures by Gary Neville and the Class of 92, alongside current football executives, and access exclusive internships, live projects, work experience opportunities, mentorship and guest speakers from Salford City FC and other partners.

So, if you are looking for a Football Business course in Manchester, our BSc (Hons) Business of Football degree is the perfect choice for you.

Watch on
Youtube

We’re not just teaching students about the traditional football business, we’re showing them how clubs can unlock new revenue streams, from estate planning to social media strategies. The football industry is evolving rapidly and our graduates will be equipped to lead that change.

GARY NEVILLE, UA92 CO-FOUNDER

How You Will Study

Course
breakdown

36 weeks of
study per year

6 x 6-week blocks per year

1 subject module per block

Subject Module
Breakdown

250 hours of
study per module

80 hrs face-to-face (32%)

20 hrs Digital Wednesdays (8%)

150 hrs independent study (60%)

Assessment
Breakdown

No traditional
end-of-year exams*

Year 1 – 100% coursework

Year 2 – 100% coursework

Your course modules

Module 1 - Sports Organisations and the Digital World

You’ll explore the business environment; understanding the internal and external forces that impact on organisations (including football clubs) the historical and contemporary issues affecting the management of people in organisations and the skills and attributes required to become an effective leader.

Module 2 - Sports Event Management

You’ll develop an in-depth understanding of what it takes to organise, manage and deliver memorable and successful football events; covering event design, development and practical fundamentals as well as managing the health, safety and security of all stakeholders.

Module 3 - Sports Finance and Globalisation

You’ll cover the basics of business finance and the economics of professional football. This module will help you develop the fundamental knowledge and skills you need to become familiar with sports financial management, specifically the financial statements and economic factors within professional football.

Module 4 - Fan Engagement, Marketing and Commercialisation of Football

Ever wondered how football clubs sell stadiums, sign up sponsors, and keep fans glued to their seats? This module dives into the world of football marketing and commercialisation. You’ll learn how clubs build a passionate fanbase, manage relationships with customers and stakeholders, score big sponsorship deals, and build a recognised brand with socially responsible values.

Module 1 - Operational Excellence in Sport

You’ll study the Operations Management frameworks and techniques used to proactively develop strategies in order to design, plan, and control operations and explore ways to improve football business performance.

Module 2 - Football Law, Ethics and Social Responsibility

This module tackles the legal, ethical, and social side of football. You’ll learn about the laws that govern transfers, contracts, and even fan behavior. We’ll also explore the ethics of doping and how decisions impact the rules of the game. Plus, you’ll dive into the social responsibility of football clubs and their impact on communities. No legal jargon here – just how to be a responsible leader in the world’s most popular sport.

Module 3 - Talent Identification, Analysis and Player Management

Want to know how clubs find future football superstars? In this module, you’ll learn the secrets of talent identification in both youth development and professional football. You’ll delve into player management and explore how clubs create the perfect environment to develop and nurture future talent. Finally, you’ll get to grips with player and match analysis, discovering ways to collect and interpret data in order to assess player performance.

Module 4 - Football Policy and Community Development

This module looks at how football policies impact society in the UK and worldwide. Learn about the economic and social impact of the sport, policy implementation, and how football can be a force for good! You’ll explore different ways clubs fund local community initiatives, especially for underrepresented groups. Plus, you’ll gain hands-on experience with a 30-hour placement at a local community-based club.

Module 1 - Leadership in Sports

You’ll develop a critical understanding of the evolution of leadership theory, its function in contemporary football business environments, the role and responsibilities of a business leader and the organisational principles that contribute to contemporary business leadership issues.

Module 2 - Football Governance

This module will give you the knowledge to understand the challenges and opportunities facing football clubs today. You’ll analyse ownership models, legal structures, and how to balance the interests of fans, investors, and players. Think about competition fairness, financial sustainability, and navigating the media. This isn’t just about the game – it’s about the business behind the game.

Module 3 - New Trends in Sport Business Management

You’ll gain an in-depth understanding of new trends in the football industry. You’ll explore the key issues, approaches and challenges related to emerging trends within football business and management.

Module 4 - Project

In this module, you will complete either a live project from one of our partners or a dissertation on an area of interest, that demonstrates your research and problem-solving skills.

What is the 92 Programme?

It’s more than a degree, it’s preparation for life.

Alongside your course modules, you will engage with the 92 Programme, which is built into every degree and tailored to each subject area.

Engaging with the 92 Programme is a requirement for all students and will count towards your overall grade.

Through taught sessions, immersive experiences and coaching, you will build confidence, resilience, wellness, self-reflection and professionalism, skills designed to support your future success.

Find out more about how we prepare students for future career success.

Why the 92 Programme is part of your course?

In a recent study*, 78% of employers believe graduates do not arrive in the workplace fully equipped with the skills they need to be work-ready.

Another study conducted by the World Economic Forum** identified ‘10 Skills You Need for the Future of Work’. These skills include:

Emotional intelligence (EQ)
Analytical (critical) thinking
Active learning with a growth mindset
Interpersonal communication skills
Leadership skills
Technology skills

At UA92, we prepare you for life after graduation and equip you with the skills employers value most. You may not realise it, but developing these skills now, will get you set for career success and could land you that dream job in the future.

*CMI Report: Work Ready Graduates

**World Economic Forum: The Future of Jobs Report 2023

How is the 92 Programme assessed?

Assessment takes the form of a Professional Diary, which is a log capturing evidence of your learning, activities and reflections. This can be videos, photos or even audio.

This is supplemented with a reflective account, which links your experiences to your personal growth.

92.2%

Name: Business of Football Accelerated BSc (Hons)
Availability: InStock

said they felt supported with their learning.

NSS Results 2026

UA92 scored higher than all Greater Manchester universities for Academic Support in the National Student Survey 2025.*

*compares UA92’s results against the 4 Universities in Greater Manchester: Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Salford, The University of Greater Manchester and The University of Manchester.

THIS COURSE IS TAUGHT AT

Old Trafford Stadium

With classrooms and learning spaces overlooking the pitch at Old Trafford Stadium, our teaching facilities will bring you closer to the action at one of the largest football stadiums in the UK.

The Old Trafford Stadium is less than 10-minute walk to our Old Trafford Main Campus, where you have access to further learning, social and study spaces.

Find out more

Manchester United's Old Trafford football stadium

What Does a Sports Scientist Do Day-to-Day?

Careers In Business of Football

What’s next for a Business of Football graduate?

A Business of Football degree at UA92 will give you a deep understanding of the sport’s commercial and regulatory landscape and equip you with sought-after and adaptable skills.

Whether working for a football club, sports agency, or governing body, professionals in this field manage various aspects of the football industry, including team management, marketing, finance, operations, and player negotiations.

This dynamic career path provides opportunities to shape the business side of the game, influence major decisions, and contribute to the growth and success of football at all levels. With the global popularity of football, the demand for skilled business professionals in this industry continues to rise, promising a rewarding and impactful career.

91%

of graduates are engaged in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation.*

FIND OUT MORE

UA92 is above the national average for graduate outcomes. The Graduate Outcomes survey is the biggest annual survey that captures the status of recent graduates who completed their studies at a higher education institution in the UK.

*Graduate Outcomes Survey Results released in 2025. National Average is 88%.

INDUSTRY PARTNERS

We have over 100 industry connections who support our mission to develop career-ready graduates. These partnerships provide you with access to industry-leading expertise, mentorship opportunities and work-place experiences.

Our industry partners play a vital role in shaping both the curriculum you study and your student experience. From delivering guest lectures and masterclasses to providing internships and graduate roles.

Looking to find out more?

Meet our Course Leader in Sports Business Management, Spencer Fearn, who discusses the similarities and differences between the Business of Football and Sports Management courses. He explains the potential career paths post graduation, whether you dream of a future working in Sports or Football.

Where are they now?

Arne

BA (Hons) Sports Management

Arne graduated with a degree in Sports Management in 2025. He progressed into a role as an Account Manager for Sandhills East, before landing his current role as an SMB Account Manager at Deliveroo.

“I had so many incredible opportunities whilst studying at UA92, from volunteering with Swinton Lionesses, helping to develop their social media presence, to hosting the UA92 EDIB in Sports Leadership Conference, and being chosen as a Student Ambassador, taking part in open days, panels and events representing UA92’s student body. I started at UA92 when I was 17 due to being an international student, and I chose to do an accelerated degree as I wanted to get into the world of work as quickly as possible, meaning I graduated when I was only 19! I secured a role at Sandhills East before I even graduated.”

Bader

BA (Hons) Sports Management

Bader studied Sports Management, graduating in 2024. He is now Co-Founder and Sporting Director of Phoenix United FC.

“Studying at UA92 was a huge two years for me, as I stopped playing football professionally and I needed to find my way again. The environment at UA92 really helped me do that. Whilst I was studying, I was working on my business, which I run full time now. My tutors were massively supportive and allowed me to do this. The quality of my learning was a real catalyst for progression and now I’m the youngest Sporting Director of a professional football club in the world. Outside of my academic study, I won Sportsperson of the Year, achieving two consecutive promotions for UA92’s football team.”

Holly

BA (Hons) Sports Management

Holly graduated in 2025 with a degree in Sports Management. She now works in Business Development Support at Lancashire Cricket Club.

“UA92 was so much more than just lectures and work, it was a journey of growth, challenges and unforgettable memories with amazing people. Before I joined UA92, I never would have believed I’d go to uni, let alone achieved a first in my degree. Throughout my UA92 journey, I had the opportunity to grow both academically and professionally, from publishing the UA92 Ignition Magazine, to presenting the first Women In Sport conference and gaining practical experience through an internship over the summer at Lancashire Cricket Club. When I completed my studies, I secured a role as at Lancashire Cricket Club as a Junior Conference and Events Coordinator, before being promoted to Business Development Support. A personal highlight was winning Lancashire Cricket Club’s Rising Star of the Year Award at the end of 2025!”

Jed

BA (Hons) Sports Management

Jed studied Sports Management, graduating in 2025 and securing a role as a Ticketing and Membership Executive at Lancashire Cricket Club.

I studied Sports Management at UA92 and graduated in 2025. Following my degree, I secured an internship at Lancashire County Cricket Club, working as a Ticketing and Memberships Executive.

“The role provided valuable real-world experience of working at an elite sports venue, in an area I had explored in my dissertation on digital ticketing.

Following the completion of my internship, I was offered a full-time position as a Ticketing and Memberships Executive at Lancashire County Cricket Club.

I am extremely grateful to UA92 for helping me develop both personally and professionally, while providing me with the opportunity to gain experience in the industry I want to work in. Without UA92, I would not be where I am today, and I am incredibly thankful for the opportunities and support they have given me throughout my journey.”

Joseph

BA (Hons) Sports Management

Joseph studied Sports Management at UA92, graduating in 2024. He now works as a Senior Ticketing Operations Executive for the Bristol Sport Group, covering Bristol City FC, Bristol Bears Rugby and Bristol Flyers.

“I come from a small town in the South West, where opportunities in sport are few & far between. The three years I spent with UA92 were life-changing and equipped me with the skills & experience to hit the ground running.

During my time there, I worked 3 internships, got to the national finals of a business competition and helped shape a professional footballs club policy. If it wasn’t for the tremendous resources, support & opportunities for growth at UA92 I would not be in the position I’m in today.

Still over a year on from my departure, I don’t go a day without thinking about how grateful I am to be on this journey and that UA92 put me on the right track.”

Liam

BA (Hons) Sports Management

Liam studied Sports Management at UA92, graduating in 2025 and winning the Chancellor’s Medal for academic achievement. He is now studying for an MBA in Sports Management at Real Madrid Graduate School.

“My time at UA92 helped me build real confidence in my own ability, particularly in developing my presentation and networking skills. I was proud to be awarded the Chancellor’s Medal for academic achievement, and to have my dissertation published in FC Business Magazine. The support and experiences I gained prepared me for the next step in my journey, and I’m now studying at the Real Madrid Graduate School, where I’m exploring the sports industry from a new perspective and confidently presenting ideas to Real Madrid executives.”

Maya

BA (Hons) Sports Management

Maya works as a Junior Events Manager at Chester Racecourse, after graduating with a degree in Sports Management in 2023.

“My time at UA92 was incredible, I had so many opportunities to grow and develop, I did things I could never have imagined doing and was so proud to be the first female student to graduate from Sports Management at UA92”

Michael

BA (Hons) Sports Management

Michael graduated from UA92 in 2023 with a degree in Sports Management. Now, he works as an Email and Marketing Executive at SportsBreaks.

“Whilst I was at college, I never thought I’d go to university, but I’m so glad I did. At UA92, I made friends for life, connected with some incredible people from my industry and beyond, and was taught by lecturers who believed in me and helped me to achieve my goals. After graduation, I secured a Marketing and Design Internship through UA92 with Lancashire Cricket Club, moving on to become a Marketing Executive at Cruyff, before landing my current position, where I help run successful email campaigns for the business in all areas of sport. I’m so thankful for the time I had at UA92 and the lessons I learnt along the way.”

Rachael

BA (Hons) Sports Management

Rachael graduated from UA92 in 2025 with a degree in Sports Management. She now works at Manchester United as an E-Commerce Customer Service and Trading Executive.

“UA92 made it possible for me to be a parent while completing my degree which was incredibly important to me. The flexible and supportive approach meant I didn’t have to choose between my family and my future. During my time at UA92 I gained valuable hands on experience within the football industry which helped me secure my dream career. One standout moment was working on a live project with Salford City which led to a permanent role with the club alongside my studies in ticketing and retail. Being involved on matchdays gave me real insight into how football clubs operate and how important the fan experience is.

After graduating from UA92 I secured a role at Everton FC as a Premium Relationship Executive where I supported premium clients and assisted with the opening of the new stadium. This led to my current role at Manchester United as an E Commerce Customer Service and Trading Executive. Some of my proudest moments include winning the league with the women’s football team and hosting the Women in Sports Leadership Conference.”

Where are they now?

Arne

BA (Hons) Sports Management

Arne graduated with a degree in Sports Management in 2025. He progressed into a role as an Account Manager for Sandhills East, before landing his current role as an SMB Account Manager at Deliveroo.