MSAA vs. MSAC: Which Athletic Leadership Degree Is Right for You?

If you’re passionate about athletics, leadership and making a lasting impact on students and athletes, graduate study in sports-related fields can open the door to meaningful career opportunities. At Concordia University, Nebraska, two graduate programs are available for students interested in athletics: the Master of Science in Athletic Administration (MSAA) and the Master of Science in Athletic Coaching (MSAC). 

Whether you’re new to the field of athletics, currently coaching, serving as an athletic director or looking to move into athletics leadership, both programs are designed to help you advance your career while continuing to serve students and athletes. The fully online, asynchronous format allows working professionals to earn their degree without putting their degrees on hold. 

At first glance, these programs may seem similar. Both are rooted in leadership, servant-minded influence and a passion for athletics. Both prepare students to make a difference in schools, universities and athletic organizations. But while they share common values, the focus and career outcomes of each program are distinct. 

So how do you know which program is the right fit for you? 

Master of Science in Athletic Administration (MSAA) 

The MSAA program is designed for students who want to lead athletic organizations from an administrative and strategic perspective. This degree focuses on the business, operational and leadership side of athletics. 

Students in the program develop advanced skills in areas such as: 

• Athletic program leadership 

• Budgeting, legal and compliance issues 

• Event and facility management 

• Personnel supervision 

• Organizational leadership 

• Strategic planning 

A distinctive feature of Concordia Nebraska’s MSAA program is its alignment with the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA). Coursework supports professional growth for current athletic administrators and allows students to pursue nationally recognized credentials such as the Registered Athletic Administrator (RAA), Certified Athletic Administrator (CAA) and Certified Master Athletic Administrator (CMAA).  

Rather than concentrating on coaching techniques or athlete development, the MSAA program prepares students to oversee athletic departments and guide programs at a higher organizational level. 

Graduates often pursue roles such as: 

• Athletic director 

• Assistant athletic director 

• Sports administrator 

• Athletic operations manager 

• Facilities coordinator 

• Compliance officer 

Because courses are offered online in an asynchronous format, students can immediately apply what they’re learning in their current athletic leadership roles while continuing to work full-time. 

The MSAA is ideal for individuals who enjoy big-picture thinking, organizational leadership and helping athletic programs thrive behind the scenes. If you’re interested in shaping the direction of athletics through management and administration, this program may be the right path for you. 

Master of Science in Athletic Coaching (MSAC) 

The MSAC program, on the other hand, is designed for those who want to work directly with athletes and teams. This degree focuses on coaching, mentorship and athlete development.  

Students explore topics such as: 

• Coaching philosophy 

• Leadership and communication 

• Sports psychology 

• Athlete motivation 

• Strength and conditioning concepts 

• Team culture and development 

• Ethics and servant leadership in coaching 

The program equips coaches to design more effective training environments, improve athlete performance, communicate more effectively with players and parents, build stronger team cultures and lead athletes in both competition and personal development. 

Graduates may pursue roles such as: 

• Head coach 

• Assistant coach 

• Strength and conditioning coach 

• Skills trainer 

• Athletic program mentor 

• Youth or club sports coach 

The flexible online format allows coaches to continue leading their teams while gaining practical skills they can implement right away in practices, competitions and athlete development. 

The MSAC is a strong fit for individuals who love teaching, mentoring and building relationships with athletes. If you find energy in practices, player development and helping athletes reach their potential, coaching may be your calling. 

Which Program Should You Choose? 

The biggest difference between the MSAA and MSAC programs comes down to where you want to make your impact. 

If you’re passionate about managing athletic programs, leading departments and shaping organizational success, the MSAA may be the better fit. 

If you’re passionate about mentoring athletes, leading teams and working directly in competitive environments, the MSAC may align more closely with your goals. 

Both programs emphasize leadership, ethics and service through a Christian worldview. At Concordia University, Nebraska, students are equipped not only with practical skills, but also with the ability to lead faithfully and purposefully in the world of athletics. 

Whether you hope to direct an athletic department or inspire athletes from the sidelines, both degrees can help prepare you for leadership opportunities. 

Which Program Fits You Best? 

Answer the questions below and see where you land. 

1. What excites you most?

A. Leading an entire athletic program and shaping its direction 

B. Working directly with athletes to help them grow and perform 

2. When you think about your future, you see yourself… 

A. Overseeing budgets, schedules, compliance and long-term planning 

B. Designing practices, developing athletes and building team culture 

3. You’re most energized by… 

A. Big-picture strategy and organizational leadership 

B. Day-to-day interaction with athletes and teams 

4. Which role sounds more like you? 

A. Athletic director or administrator supporting multiple programs 

B. Coach, mentor and leader working closely with one team or group 

5. Your leadership style leans toward… 

A. Managing systems, people and processes effectively 

B. Teaching, motivating and developing individuals and teams 

Your Results 

Mostly A’s? 

You may be a great fit for the Master of Science in Athletic Administration (MSAA). 

This program is designed for those who want to lead athletic programs, manage operations and shape the future of athletics from an administrative and strategic perspective. 

Mostly B’s? 

You may be a great fit for the Master of Science in Athletic Coaching (MSAC). 

This program is ideal for those who want to become stronger coaches, deepen their impact on athletes and lead with purpose, faith and servant leadership. 

 

Ready to Take the Next Step? 

Whether you’re interested in leading athletic programs or developing athletes through coaching, Concordia University, Nebraska can help you reach your goals.  

Connect with a graduate admissions counselor or start your application to get started! 

 

No matter which path you choose, the Master of Science in Athletic Administration and the Master of Science in Athletic Coaching programs at Concordia University, Nebraska are designed to help you lead with confidence, integrity and purpose. Through flexible online coursework, experienced faculty and a Christ-centered approach to leadership, you’ll be equipped to make an impact in athletics and beyond.