— In a bold move blending academia with the high-stakes world of collegiate athletics, the Michael F. Price College of Business at the University of Oklahoma has announced the launch of its innovative “Future Athletics Director Program,” aimed at grooming the next generation of leaders in college sports administration.
The new certificate program, the first of its kind in the Big 12, combines business strategy, sports law, and leadership development to prepare students and athletic professionals for the complex role of an athletics director. With a growing demand for visionary leadership in college athletics, this initiative positions OU at the forefront of sports business education.
“This program is designed to meet the evolving demands of collegiate athletics,” said Dr. Corey Phelps, Dean of Price College. “Athletics directors today need to be more than just sports enthusiasts — they are CEOs, fundraisers, crisis managers, and cultural leaders. Our program delivers that comprehensive foundation.”
Set to launch this fall, the curriculum includes coursework in financial management, NCAA compliance, donor relations, marketing, and DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) leadership. Students will also benefit from real-world mentorship from current and former athletics directors from Power Five conferences, as well as immersive internships within OU’s own athletics department.
The program will be open to graduate students in business, law, and sports management, along with working professionals in athletic administration. Applications for the inaugural cohort are currently being accepted, with enrollment capped at 25 participants to ensure a high-impact, personalized experience.
University of Oklahoma Athletics Director Joe Castiglione, who will serve as one of the program’s lead mentors, praised the initiative. “This is exactly what the industry needs. The challenges facing college athletics today — from NIL to conference realignment — require leaders who understand the business side as well as the human side of sports. I’m honored to be part of something that will shape the future of our profession.”
With this initiative, the Price College of Business continues to expand its influence beyond traditional business domains, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in innovative, applied education.
