Online Legal Studies Certificate in Sports Law
UC’s online Certificate in Sports Law gives professionals the legal and regulatory insight to navigate the rapidly evolving world of sports, athletics, and name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights.
Program Overview
Designed for non-lawyers, this program offers an in-depth understanding of how contracts, compliance, and labor laws shape the business of sports. Developed through a collaboration between the University of Cincinnati College of Law and the College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services (CECH), this certificate combines foundational legal training with specialized courses in athletic governance and risk management. Students will explore how laws and policies impact everything from professional sports franchises to college athletic programs, player contracts, and NIL agreements.
This program is ideal for professionals working in athletics administration, sports business, compliance, or event management who want to strengthen their legal literacy and decision-making skills in a competitive, high-stakes field.
What You’ll Learn
Graduates of the Certificate in Sports Law will be able to:
Understand how labor, contract, and risk management laws apply within sports organizations.
Analyze key legal cases and policies affecting collegiate and professional athletics.
Evaluate and manage compliance risks within athletic programs.
Apply negotiation and contract principles to real-world sports scenarios.
Communicate complex legal concepts to coaches, administrators, and athletes.
Program Highlights
100% Online and Flexible: Learn from anywhere, with courses designed for working professionals balancing busy schedules.
Real-World Sports Law Focus: Study the legal foundations behind contracts, NIL, compliance, and risk management in athletics.
Cross-College Collaboration: Learn from expert faculty in UC’s College of Law and CECH’s School of Sport Administration.
Career-Driven Curriculum: Gain practical skills applicable to collegiate, amateur, and professional sports organizations.
Pathway to a Master’s Degree: Apply your certificate credits toward UC’s Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program to continue your legal education.
Your guide from application through admission is your Enrollment Services Advisor. Every student is assigned a dedicated Enrollment Services Advisor who can answer questions, provide guidance, and help navigate your unique educational needs.
Prerequisites
- Undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale
- At least two years of professional work experience in a related field
Application Requirements
- Complete the application for admission
- Unofficial transcripts from all prior colleges
- Resume
- One Letter of Recommendation
- Application fees waived for early applications. Ask your Enrollment Services Advisor for more details
The sports industry continues to evolve with expanding legal and regulatory challenges—from NIL policies to compliance oversight. The Certificate in Sports Law prepares professionals to navigate these complexities and stand out in an increasingly competitive field.
Industries That Value This Certificate
Collegiate and professional athletic programs
Sports marketing and management firms
Event and facility management organizations
Government and sports governing bodies
Player associations and agencies
Higher education and athletics compliance departments
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Advance Your Expertise
As issues like athlete rights, NIL, and governance continue to transform the sports landscape, professionals who understand the legal and ethical dimensions of athletics are in high demand. UC’s Certificate in Sports Law provides the skills and insight to lead with integrity and confidence, and serves as a direct pathway to the Master of Legal Studies (MLS) for continued advancement.
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