Master of Sport Development and Management (MSpDM)

Course details

About the course

The Master of Sport Development and Management (MSpDM) is a 180-point coursework postgraduate degree designed for individuals who are employed in Sport Development and Management and want to upskill for professional development reasons. It is also intended as a pathway for those students graduating with a BSc or BA majoring in Sport Management and Development (or comparable qualification) into employment in the field.It has the same structure as the Postgraduate Diploma in Sport Development and Management (PGDipSpDM) and also features a 30 point Practicum and associated 30 point Practicum Report. These papers offer students the opportunity to examine a topic of their choice within a sport organisation. The typical duration of the programme is 12 months.Other important goals of the course are to develop in students:An appreciation of current and emerging issues and perspectives in global and national sporting communities.Commitment to the acquisition, critical evaluation and application of knowledge and policies relevant to sport development and managementAbility to accurately and effectively communicate information, arguments and analyses using written, visual and oral reporting formats.Advanced knowledge of ethics and ethical standards relevant to sport development; ability to operate ethically within the workplace and community.An understanding of the development of sport in local, national and international contexts in two fundamental ways: development of sport and development through sport. The first is based on sport being valued for its own sake where it is viewed as a public good. The second refers to the strategic use of sport to address and achieve specific social, educational, health, economic, and political objectives.Information for new applicantsA candidate would normally have completed a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of Arts in a related subject area before undertaking the MSpDM, but the degree is also open to those with other qualifications.

Entry requirements

Admission shall be subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sciences), on the advice of the Dean of School of Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences and the Director of the Sport Development and Management programme.

Every applicant shall either:

have been admitted to the degree of Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Arts and Science, majoring in Sport Development and Management, and have achieved an average grade of at least B in the relevant 300-level papers, or
have alternative qualifications acceptable to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sciences).

About the provider

The University of Otago, New Zealand’s first university, was founded in 1869 and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with a strong emphasis on research and academic excellence. Ranked in the top 1% of universities globally and 2nd in New Zealand, it is also 214th worldwide according to QS rankings. Recognised as the top university in New Zealand for student academic performance by the Tertiary Education Commission, 96% of its graduates either enter the workforce or pursue further study shortly after graduation.

Located in Dunedin, a vibrant student city where students make up 20% of the population, the University benefits from a unique atmosphere. Dunedin, on the south-eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, featuring Victorian and Edwardian architecture, picturesque hills, and wildlife reserves.

The University’s campus is ranked the 5th most beautiful in the world by THE Student Voice, enhancing the educational experience. The Otago region offers diverse scenery and is close to popular destinations such as Queenstown. New Zealand is rated the 1st most beautiful country by Rough Guides 2024, is renowned for its natural beauty, Māori heritage, and multicultural society, providing a friendly, inclusive environment for students and residents.