Branding the Athlete: College Sports Marketing

This course will take a comprehensive look into the evolving role of marketing in collegiate sports. Students will explore the unique challenges and opportunities in marketing collegiate athletes, focusing on how individual athletes can build, manage, and monetize their personal brands. Covering critical topics such as digital marketing, athlete representation, NCAA regulations, and brand partnerships, students will gain the tools and insights to understand the business of athlete branding in today’s collegiate environment. Topics may include digital branding strategies, Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, and ethical considerations in athlete marketing. Through industry case studies and hands-on projects, students will learn practical skills to help them thrive in the field of sports marketing and management.

Learning Outcomes

Upon Completing this course, students will be able to:

1. Explore the unique challenges and opportunities involved in marketing collegiate athletes, focusing on the evolving role of digital branding and athlete representation.
2. Examine the impact of NIL regulations, learning how athletes can leverage these opportunities to monetize their personal brands while staying compliant with NCAA rules.
3. Learn how to build, manage, and promote collegiate athletes' personal brands using digital marketing techniques and brand partnerships.
4. Gain insights into the ethical challenges and legal implications of athlete marketing, ensuring responsible and informed decision-making in the field.
5. Develop real-world marketing strategies and gain practical experience in sports marketing and management.

Course Highlights:

• Focus on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL)
• Hands-On Branding Experience
• Exploration of Ethical and Legal Dynamics

Note: Information is subject to change as instructors finalize course content and syllabi.