Professional Sports MBA

(Master of Business Administration)


This Course is starting in September 2025

Why this course was developed.

The MBA in Leadership and Business Strategy for Athletes was developed in response to the significant challenges that many professional footballers face upon retirement. Nearly half of all professional football players encounter financial difficulties, with many facing bankruptcy within five years of retiring—additionally, a third experienced divorce within the first year of leaving the sport. Without the robust support they had during their playing careers, many former athletes struggle with addiction, depression, illness, or even incarceration.

While some manage to secure financial stability or transition into roles in management or punditry, the majority are unprepared for the realities of retirement, leading to a rapid and often tragic decline. This programme was specifically created to address these issues, recognising the urgent need for professional athletes to gain management qualifications, such as an MBA, to better prepare for life after football. By equipping athletes with essential business skills and knowledge, this MBA aims to help them navigate their transition successfully, ensuring they can secure their future and thrive in new ventures beyond the pitch.

Unlock Your Potential Beyond the Pitch

Welcome to the MBA for athletes after sports careers —a uniquely tailored programme designed to help professional footballers and other elite athletes transition seamlessly into successful business careers. This one-year, 60 ECTS program equips you with the strategic, financial, and leadership skills needed to thrive in the corporate world, ensuring you are prepared for life beyond sports.

Why Choose This Shorter MBA?

As a professional athlete, you’ve honed exceptional skills on the field—teamwork, leadership, resilience, and strategic thinking. Now, it’s time to leverage those strengths in the business arena. Our MBA programme is designed to bridge the gap between your sports career and the business world, providing you with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to succeed.

Programme Highlights

  • Tailored Curriculum: Our courses are designed to meet the unique needs of athletes, focusing on areas where you can maximise your strengths, such as Strategic Management, Financial Literacy, and Leadership.

  • Experienced Faculty: Learn from industry experts and former athletes who have successfully transitioned to business, gaining insights that go beyond textbooks.

  • Flexible Learning: We understand the demands of your athletic career. Our programme offers flexible learning options that fit your schedule, whether you're still competing or have recently retired.

  • Career Transition Support: Benefit from specialised career services that focus on helping athletes find their following path—whether in corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, or sports management.

What You Will Learn

Strategic Management
Master the art of business strategy, learning how to analyse, develop, and implement effective strategies that create long-term value.

Managing Finances
Gain critical financial management skills to make informed decisions, manage investments, and ensure long-term financial security.

Human Resource Management
Learn how to lead and manage people effectively, focusing on building strong teams and fostering a positive organisational culture.

Managing Processes
Understand how to design, analyze, and optimize business processes to improve efficiency and productivity. This module focuses on streamlining operations, implementing process improvements, and utilizing technology to enhance organizational performance.

Who Should Apply?

This MBA is ideal for current or former professional athletes who are:

  • Looking to transition into the business world or entrepreneurial ventures.

  • Seeking to leverage their sports experience in leadership roles.

  • Interested in acquiring the skills necessary for long-term financial and career success.

Start Your Journey Today

Transitioning from a sports career to the business world is a significant step, but the right education and support can lead to even greater success. Enrol in the MBA in Leadership and Business Strategy for Athletes and start your journey towards a thriving career beyond the pitch.

Apply Now | Contact Us for More Information


What are the differences between the Professional Mini-MBA and the standard Executive MBA?

The Professional Sports Mini MBA is uniquely structured to meet the distinct needs of athletes entering the business world. It provides tailored education, support, and career development opportunities that align with their previous experiences and future aspirations.

Doing the MBA with Longford gave me a new level of confidence to step outside of my comfort zone
— Karen Carney MBA OBE Former Professional Football & Pundit

TYPE

Master Degree Level 9


CERTIFICATION

Rushford Business School (Geneva)

DURATION

1 Year (Part-Time)

COURSE CODE

RBSMBAP

DELIVERY METHOD

Blended online

COST

NORMAL PRICE €6500 (Scholarships available)

DAYS

One session per week

Course Info.

Are you ready for the next step?