Sports management course offered

Four-year BBA offered by Canadian University Dubai focuses on business side of sports

Anew bachelor’s degree (BBA) in sports management has been launched by Canadian University Dubai (CUD), focused on the business and management aspects of the sporting industry.

It is aimed at providing students with knowledge and skills centred on accounting, finance, economics, management, operations, supply chain management, marketing and the law pertaining to sports organisations. The major can be completed in four years (eight semesters).

The university said the specialisation in sports management will prepare students for careers in sport activities and international competitions — from horse and car races to football, golf, competitions and exhibitions that are currently ongoing and increasing in the UAE.

Professor Karim Chelli, vicechancellor and president of CUD, said: “The launch of this specialised sports management programme was inspired by the importance given to sports by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who has said: ‘Sports, in the end, are a way of life and can bring a lot of good to the community if we view them positively … Sports teach determination, teamwork, respect for rules, fairness with opponents and humility’.”

Dr Marc Poulin, assistant professor and acting dean of CUD’s faculty of management, said: “The UAE is home to worldclass facilities and venues hosting local, regional and international teams and events … These events require significant human resources with expertise in the industry. The sporting industry is a multibillion dollar business in the UAE that promises continued growth as more and more world-class professional and amateur athletes participate in the elite sporting events held annually in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.”