Curriculum

ProGram Goals

The Sports Analytics program at UNC Charlotte offers two academic pathways: an Undergraduate Certificate in Sports Analytics and a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Analytics.

Undergraduate Certificate in Sports Analytics
The Undergraduate Certificate focuses on foundational training in sports analytics, equipping students with essential skills in statistics, data analysis, and human performance. The certificate is ideal for students seeking to enhance their qualifications or gain a competitive edge for entry-level positions in sports analytics. Certificate graduates have already secured roles with professional teams like the Philadelphia Phillies, Charlotte FC, and the Boston Bruins, demonstrating the program’s success in launching sports analytics careers.

Why a “Certificate” and not a “Minor”?
A minor is an optional secondary field of study for degree-seeking students, requiring 15–29 credit hours beyond the major’s requirements. It offers broader academic exploration in a discipline distinct from the student’s major and appears on the transcript. In contrast, a certificate focuses on professionally oriented, applied skills in a specific area. Certificates can complement a degree program or be earned independently, providing targeted expertise for career advancement. While both appear on the official transcript, minors emphasize academic breadth, whereas certificates highlight practical, career-focused training, making them a flexible option for students seeking specialized credentials.

Bachelor’s degree in Sports Analytics

The Bachelor’s degree builds on this foundation, offering a comprehensive and in-depth STEM education. It extends beyond the certificate by incorporating advanced coursework in data science, machine learning, and the anatomy and physiology of human performance. The B.S. program also provides more extensive preparation for roles requiring deeper expertise in data science and human performance analytics, meeting the evolving demands of professional sports organizations’ data science teams. Graduates will be equipped to pursue high-paying entry-level positions and contribute significantly to both team success and fan engagement.

Both programs benefit from collaborations with campus athletics and local professional sports organizations, such as the Carolina Panthers, Charlotte FC, and the Charlotte Hornets. By leveraging UNC Charlotte’s proximity to professional teams and media companies, students gain valuable career opportunities and real-world experience in a rapidly evolving industry.