Buffalo, NY – Canisius University’s online Master of Science in Sport Administration ranks No. 5 in the nation on Forbes’ 2026 list of Best Sports Management Master’s Online Degrees. In its October 8 ranking, Forbes recognized Canisius for offering the best experiential learning opportunities among the programs ranked. Forbes cited the university’s proximity to professional sports teams, including the Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Sabres and Buffalo Bandits, and the hands-on opportunities available through the university’s NCAA Division I athletics program.
Forbes evaluated 164 schools, considering factors such as affordability, accessibility, student experience and institutional credibility.
“This ranking recognizes something that has always been central to our approach: preparing students for the sports industry by giving them opportunities to experience it firsthand,” said Shawn O’Rourke, PhD, dean of the Division of Business, Communications and Health Studies. “Our students apply what they learn in the classroom, work alongside professionals and build connections that can help them take the next step in their careers.”
Canisius students gain practical experience through built-in internships and NCAA Division I game-day operations. These experiences include work in ticketing, marketing, communications, facility management and coaching. Buffalo’s professional sports market also gives students access to teams and organizations across the industry.
The MS in Sport Administration prepares graduates for careers in professional and collegiate sports, including team operations, athletic administration, coaching, scouting, marketing, communications and facility management.
Canisius alumni hold positions across the industry, including senior development manager with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, assistant director of equipment operations with the Buffalo Bills, assistant director of player engagement with the New York Giants, director of community relations with the Buffalo Sabres and scout with the St. Louis Cardinals. The program’s network includes more than 1,400 alumni working in 40 states and 13 countries.
Canisius was founded in 1870 in Buffalo, NY, and is one of 27 Jesuit colleges and universities in the U.S. Consistently ranked among the top institutions in the Northeast, Canisius offers undergraduate, graduate and pre-professional programs distinguished by close student-faculty collaboration, mentoring and an emphasis on ethical, purpose-driven leadership.
