Swap the sidelines for centre field with a diploma that gets you closer to the action.
Learn the business side of sport with our Diploma in Sport Management at Adelaide Football Club (AFC) and Adelaide University. Delivered in partnership with the Adelaide Crows Institute of Sports Business, this one-year program blends classroom learning with real industry experience.
You’ll explore the core principles of sport and recreation, gain insight into how sport organisations operate and build the skills to analyse business decisions in professional settings.
With access to elite facilities and expert mentors at AFC, you’ll develop practical knowledge and build valuable connections in the field, setting you up for a strong start in the world of sport management.
The Diploma in Sport Management at Adelaide University is your first step into the business of sport. Over one year of study, you'll explore how sport organisations run, learn about marketing, sponsorship and leadership and gain insight into how sport shapes society.
You'll study topics like commercial operations, sport and recreation, management and communication, while also building confidence in using data to inform decisions.
Practical placements with the Adelaide Football Club (AFC) give you hands-on experience and real industry insight. Along the way, you'll strengthen your teamwork, problem-solving and leadership skills.
After graduating you can pursue career opportunities in clubs, community programs, sporting events and business operations.
Gain knowledge and skills in sport business management. Access one of two paid graduate internships with Adelaide Football Club (AFC). Use this diploma as a pathway into a business degree, including our Bachelor of Business majoring in Sport Management. Learn through a mix of theory and hands-on experience. Complete work-integrated learning facilitated by AFC. Study onsite at the AFC, alongside elite athletes and in the sporting club environment. The Diploma in Sport Management at Adelaide University offers a dynamic, hands-on introduction to the sport industry.
The Diploma has no ATAR requirements, so you can apply straight from high school or as a mature-age student, with no exam results needed. It’s a flexible entry point for anyone ready to start a career in sport management.
Delivered in partnership with the Adelaide Football Club (AFC), the program combines academic study with over 100 hours of real-world experience. You’ll also get a rare opportunity to work behind the scenes of a professional sporting organisation.
Study topics such as commercial operations, sport and recreation, leadership, marketing and the role of sport in society. Build confidence using data to support business decisions, giving you a competitive edge when seeking a career after graduation.
Courses are designed to give you both a broad overview and deeper insight into key areas of sport management, balancing classroom learning with applied knowledge. Assessments are practical and job-focused, helping you develop communication, problem-solving and analytical skills.
You’ll benefit from classes with strong support from teaching staff, and you'll study onsite at the Adelaide Football Club, surrounded by elite athletes and industry professionals. A dedicated placement gives you a head start in building industry connections while gaining practical know-how.
Each year, two graduates are offered full-time roles at the AFC, providing an exceptional opportunity to transition directly into the workforce.
Graduate with guaranteed entry into the Bachelor of Business majoring in Sport Management at Adelaide University, with a year's credit (8 courses). You’ll also be eligible for guaranteed entry and credit for a range of Bachelor of Business programs.
Whether you continue your studies or only complete this diploma, you’ll be prepared to launch a career in sport, backed by industry knowledge and practical experience.
Complete 48 units comprising:
Complete 48 units comprising:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
UG Common Core 1
|
Course code
AUXX1000
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Fundamentals of Sport and Recreation
|
Course code
SPOR1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Sport, Health and Wellbeing
|
Course code
SPOR2000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Commercial Operations and Marketing in Sport
|
Course code
SPOR2001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Sport in Contemporary Society
|
Course code
SPOR2002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Sport Practicum 1
|
Course code
SPOR2900
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Management, Organisations and Leadership
|
Course code
BUSI1002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Marketing Principles
|
Course code
MARK1000
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
 |
Course name
Sport Practicum 1
|
Course code
SPOR2900
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Commercial Operations and Marketing in Sport
|
Course code
SPOR2001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Fundamentals of Sport and Recreation
|
Course code
SPOR1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Sport, Health and Wellbeing
|
Course code
SPOR2000
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Sport in Contemporary Society
|
Course code
SPOR2002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Management, Organisations and Leadership
|
Course code
BUSI1002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Marketing Principles
|
Course code
MARK1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
UG Common Core 1
|
Course code
AUXX1000
|
Units
6
|
Want to build a career in the fast-paced world of sport, fitness and community development? You could become a sport development officer, boosting participation at supporting clubs, councils and athletes of all levels. You might work as a sponsorship and events coordinator, delivering major sporting events and building strong brand partnerships.
Perhaps you’ll help design inclusive programs or manage top facilities as a sporting venue manager.
From grassroots sport to national organisations, the Diploma in Sport Management opens doors to diverse roles where you can lead programs, shape experiences and create positive change through sport.
The Australian sport industry is experiencing significant growth, driven in part by preparations for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.
Employment opportunities are also on the rise, with projections indicating a 6.4% increase for amusement, fitness, and sports centre managers, and a 7.9% rise for sports and fitness workers by May 2029 (IBISWorld, 2013 – 2028).
These trends highlight a robust demand for skilled professionals in sport management, making it the perfect time for studying the Diploma in Sport Management at Adelaide University.
Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
