Master of Sports Analytics

In a world where ‘data is everywhere’, contemporary sport increasingly requires the use of analytical techniques. This course explores the key aspects of sports analytics, both ‘on the field’ and ‘off the field’. It examines the application of analytics in sports for purposes of in-game strategy, player performance, team management, sports operations, business development, fan engagement, sponsorship evaluation and other selected topics.

With data playing a pivotal role in modern sports, understanding statistical analysis and visualisation is key to uncovering insights that underpin success on and off the field. This course draws on statistical analysis and data visualisation to explore how data is used in sport to make evidence-based decisions. The course covers three areas. First, it provides a foundational understanding of quantitative analysis. Second, various data visualisation techniques are outlined (including exposure to relevant software programs) to develop skills in understanding and presenting complex data. Third, an applied understanding of the importance of data in identifying insights and trends in the sport sector. Recent examples from the sport industry, including ‘on-field’ performance and in commercial activities, will be used to illustrate these complex concepts.

Extracting and communicating information from data lies at the heart of Statistics and Data Science. In practice, data isn’t often in an immediately useable format, requiring management, manipulation, and error-checking. Visualisation of data is an invaluable asset in error-checking as well as both finding and communicating key information. This course provides introductory methods for such data wrangling and visualisation of data.

The pervasion of information technology into every aspect of life and the recent explosion of social media have resulted in the creation of huge volumes (Big Data) of typically unstructured data: web logs, videos, speech, photographs, purchase patterns, e-mails, GPS data and Tweets. Organisations have understood that there is a strong need for professional data analysts who are able to manage big data, to apply appropriate data analytics techniques (e.g. statistical learning, classification, and dimension reduction methods), and to utilise the critical knowledge within these enormous amounts of data. This course brings together several key theories and technologies used in manipulating, storing, and analyzing big data.

In today’s data-driven environments, effectively communicating the outcomes of data analysis is crucial for ensuring that decision- makers can understand and act upon the insights presented. This course explores the art and science of data storytelling, integrating it with fundamental principles of data visualisation. Students will learn how to transform complex data into compelling and actionable narratives fulfilling the essential role of a data translator across various applied settings.

Identifying and recruiting the right talent is essential to building competitive, successful sports teams and sports organisations. This course engages with the methodologies and analytical techniques used in the identification and recruitment of athletic talent. Students explore the principles of talent identification, including physiological, psychological, and performance metrics. The course covers various models and approaches used by sports organisations to scout, assess, and recruit athletes. Using case studies and practical applications, students gain insights into the strategic importance of effective talent identification, recruitment, and development in the sports industry.

Having an opportunity to apply skills and knowledge acquired through study is essential to students being ‘career-ready’. This course builds student employability by providing in-person exposure to the working world of sport businesses. Students undertake 140 hours of supervised work placement (work integrated learning) in partnership with a host organisation. Students observe and participate in a range of work practices as negotiated with the host organisation.

In an era where digital engagement shapes fan loyalty and brand success, mastering new media analytics is central to sport business operations. This course explores the impact of new media on the sports industry, focusing on the use of digital communication technologies to enhance interaction between users and content. Students will learn how to analyse and leverage data from various new media platforms to increase engagement, enhance fan experiences, and support business decision-making. The course content includes social media analytics, content performance metrics, and the role of digital marketing in sports. Through practical applications and case studies, students develop skills to critically evaluate and utilise new media analytics in sport business contexts.

Experiencing the global sports industry first hand provides invaluable learning opportunities that can only be gained by exposure to diverse cultural and professional settings. This course expands the theoretical knowledge and skills developed in the classroom, immersing students in international sports business practice. In this course, students will undertake educational activities at a range of international sporting related venues and organisations, and also engage in a range of other activities designed to require engagement in and increased understanding of the social, political, cultural and sports business practices in other countries.

• Bachelor degree plus 1 year relevant work experience or
• Bachelor Honours degree or
• Graduate Certificate or
• Graduate Diploma or
• 5 years relevant work experience

Relevant work experience includes: business, commerce, data analytics, international studies, journalism, media, sports, statistics or equivalent. Work experience can be demonstrated through certified copies of all relevant qualifications, a detailed CV, and a statement of service or signed letters from employers confirming your role, duties and period of employment.

• English Language Requirements: if you’re applying from a country where English is not the majority spoken language, you’ll need to demonstrate your English proficiency. We accept a range of internationally recognised qualifications, with the minimum standard being: IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no individual component below 6.0, or an equivalent. Accepted qualifications include: IELTS Academic, IELTS for UKVI, TOEFL iBT, Oxford ELLT, PTE Academic, Cambridge IGCSE, ESOL, and IESOL.

Trimester 1, 2026

• 11 January 2026 — Last day to apply
• 19 January 2026 — Orientation date
• 27 January 2026 — Commencement date

Trimester 3, 2026

• 2 August 2026 — Last day to apply
• 10 August 2026 — Orientation date
• 17 August 2026 — Commencement date

Apply now via our partners the University of Newcastle

Trimester 1, 2026

• 9 November 2025 — Last day to apply
• 11 December 2025 — Last day to accept and pay
• 19 January 2026 — Orientation date
• 27 January 2026 — Commencement date
• 6 February 2026 — Last day to arrive in Australia

Trimester 3, 2026

• 22 June 2026 — Last day to apply
• 8 July 2026 — Last day to accept and pay
• 10 August 2026 — Orientation date
• 17 August 2026 — Commencement date
• 28 August 2026 — Last day to arrive in Australia

It is recommended you submit your application a minimum of 12 weeks before your intended trimester start date.

Apply now via our partners the University of Newcastle