Bachelor Sport Management in Focus: I compare IU Distance Learning & IST University of Management
The choice of the right degree programme is a decision that has far-reaching consequences for one's professional future. In the field of Sports Management, the IU International University and the IST University of Management offer renowned distance learning programmes. This article provides a detailed overview of both programmes to provide prospective students with a solid decision-making basis.
Contents
Universities and Programmes at a Glance
The IST University of Management is a state-recognized University of Applied Sciences based in Düsseldorf. In the winter semester of 2022/2023, a total of 4,278 students were enrolled. It offers distance learning programmes in the fields of sports, fitness, health, tourism, hospitality, events, media, and communication. The university places great emphasis on high scientific quality and a strong practical relevance in its programmes. Since its foundation in 2012, it has established itself through its flexible bachelor's and master's programmes, offered both full-time and part-time. The programmes are accredited by the Foundation for International Business Administration Accreditation (FIBAA) and provide comprehensive business education complemented by industry-specific expertise and the opportunity to set individual priorities. The IST University of Management stands out for its high degree of practical orientation, with industry-experienced lecturers and a curriculum closely linked to professional practice to optimally prepare students for leadership positions.
The IU International University is a private University of Applied Sciences that has been offering a wide range of state-recognized bachelor's and master's degree programmes since its establishment in 1998. With over 100,000 students in the winter semester of 2022/2023, it is the largest German university. IU places great emphasis on flexibility and individual learning needs and therefore offers its programmes entirely online. Students can start their studies at any time and have the option to choose between full-time and part-time options without the need to attend face-to-face events. Special features of IU include the ability to complete study requirements through online exams, individual coaching services, and an innovative learning experience through the learning app IU Learn, the online campus myCampus, and virtual live formats. IU also enables individuals without traditional university entrance qualifications to pursue studies, for example, by recognising professional experience or advanced vocational training.
Here is an overview of the two degree programmes:
Course | University | Duration | Course contents | Fees | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sports Business Management, Bachelor of Arts Distance learning program | IST University of Management | 6 Semester | General Management, Sports Marketing, Association and Club Management, International Sports Business, Sports Marketing two modules to choose from: Football Management, Sports Event Management, Sports … | from 13644 € total from 379 € monthly | |
Sports management, Bachelor of Arts Distance learning program | IU International University | 6 Semester | Specialization in the field of sports management: management of sports clubs and sports associations, sports event management, sports media management. Additional specializations: Advanced Leadership,… | from 15063 € total from 259 € monthly |
Admission Requirements: Entry into the World of Sports Management
The basic requirements for enrolling in a sports management degree program at both universities are the same: a high school diploma, technical college entrance qualification, or a completed vocational training with relevant work experience. What sets the IST University apart is the additional requirement of at least three months of internship in the sports sector, emphasizing practical experience right from the beginning of the studies.
While both universities offer a flexible approach to admission requirements, catering to a broad audience, the IST University places more emphasis on industry-specific previous experiences. In contrast, the IU opens its doors to career changers as well and provides an additional pathway to qualify for the program through a trial study period. These differences reflect the respective philosophical and pedagogical approaches of the institutions, which applicants should consider when making their decision.
Study Contents: Combination of Business and Sports Science
The study contents of both bachelor's degree programs provide a solid foundation for a career in sports management, albeit with different focuses and approaches to teaching.
The IST University highlights that 50% of its teaching content is specifically tailored to sports, with this proportion seeming to be even higher in practice. Students receive comprehensive training in general management, sports marketing, association and club management, international sports business, and sports marketing. A special feature is the elective modules, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and specialize in areas such as football management, sports event management, sports retail, media literacy, and new media management in sports business.
In comparison, the sports management programme at the IU International University offers a broader and more flexible structure, enabling students to customize their studies through specialization options. In addition to core modules in sports management, sports economics, sports law, and sports marketing, students can choose from a variety of specializations to deepen their knowledge in specific areas such as sports event management, sports media management, or managing sports clubs and associations. Apart from these specific modules, the IU provides a range of other specializations covering a broad spectrum of interdisciplinary skills.
By the way, both universities offer a variety of examination formats, with the IU standing out for its flexibility. Students can start their studies anytime and take exams online. The IST University also offers online exams but additionally includes on-site phases, which, while not mandatory, are valuable for personal networking and gaining practical experience.
On-Site Phases: Direct Exchange on Location and Virtual Lectures

In the Sports Business Management programme at the IST University, a total of 19 to 28 on-site days are scheduled throughout the course, usually taking place at the Düsseldorf campus. These on-site phases are an integral part of the programme, allowing students to apply their acquired knowledge in practice, maintain direct contact with lecturers and industry experts, and engage with fellow students. The on-site phases are designed to support the practice-oriented approach of the programme and provide valuable insights into the sports industry. The on-site sessions are mostly voluntary.
The Sports Management programme at the IU International University focuses more on a flexible online study concept and integrates virtual lectures instead of traditional on-site phases. Students have access to a variety of virtual courses, online tutorials, and interactive formats, enabling them to learn anytime and anywhere. This approach is particularly advantageous for working professionals and international students, offering high flexibility without the need to be present regularly at a specific location.
Costs: An Investment in the Future
The total costs for the distance learning programme at the IST University amount to approximately 13,644 euros in full-time study; in part-time study, the monthly rate can be reduced to about 319 euros. Since the on-site phases take place in Düsseldorf, students who do not live nearby must expect additional costs for travel, accommodation, and possibly meals. With a total of 19 to 28 on-site days, these costs can vary significantly depending on the distance and type of accommodation. Since the on-site phases are mostly optional, these additional costs also vary from student to student.
The total costs for the distance learning programme at the IU International University amount to approximately 15,063 euros in full-time study, over 19,000 euros in part-time study. Since the course primarily focuses on virtual lectures and does not require physical presence phases, additional costs for travel, accommodation, and meals are largely eliminated. This can be financially advantageous, especially for students who want to remain spatially flexible or live far from the university location.
While the tuition fees for the programme at the IU International University are slightly higher than those of the IST University, the overall lower additional costs due to the virtual lectures at the IU can offset this imbalance for some students. The choice between both institutions depends not only on the direct tuition fees but also on personal life situations, preferences regarding the study format, and potential travel costs for on-site phases.
Conclusion
The decision between the IU International University and the IST University for Sports Management in the field of management depends on the individual preferences of the students. While the IU stands out for its flexibility and broad study content, the IST University offers a strong practical relevance and personal networking opportunities through its on-site phases. Future students should carefully weigh their personal goals, the desired flexibility of the study model, and the financial aspects to make the optimal choice for their career in sports management.
- Admission Requirements: Both universities require a high school diploma, technical college entrance qualification, or a completed vocational training with work experience. The IST University additionally requires a 3-month internship in the sports sector or relevant work experience.
- Study Content: The IST University emphasizes a 50% share of sports-specific modules, which appears slightly higher. The IU also offers a mix of business administration and sports-related modules, with a focus on business administration. Both universities offer specialization options, with the IU providing a broader range outside of sports.
- Exam Formats and Practices: The IST University offers a variety of exam formats, including online exams. Practical experiences can be brought in through a required internship or work experience. The IU focuses on online exams and allows for flexible study starts without fixed semester times.
- On-Site Phases: The IST University offers numerous, but not mandatory, on-site phases, while the IU focuses entirely on distance learning without mandatory physical presence.
- Costs: The IST University is slightly cheaper in full-time study compared to the IU, with additional costs for on-site phases possible. The IU offers flexible payment models for its programs.
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