Advancing the Field | Southern Methodist University

Graduate Assistantships in Intercollegiate Athletics & Earning an MSSM

Written by Simmons School of Education | February 6, 2025 at 11:15 PM

Careers in sports, whether in professional, amateur, or intercollegiate sports, can start from a number of different points. You could join a sports organization and work your way up. You could transition into the sports industry from a specialized role outside sports. You could start in the minor leagues and advance into professional leagues. Or, one of the more certain routes, you could pursue a graduate assistantship in intercollegiate sports as your starting off point.

What’s more, if you are considering a graduate assistant (GA) position in intercollegiate athletics, the process differs significantly from traditional GA positions. Let’s discuss what opportunities exist, how to pursue a GA position in intercollegiate sports, and what degree is best if you want a career in sports

What is a Graduate Assistantship?

At its basic core, a graduate assistantship is a form of financial aid offered by universities to help graduate students fund their education. But it’s much more than that. It’s a chance to work closely with faculty and staff, assisting in teaching, research, or administrative duties. 

In return, students often receive a tuition waiver and a stipend, making it an attractive proposition for many. But beyond the financial benefits, a graduate assistantship is a stepping stone to professional development, allowing students to gain valuable hands-on work experience to distinguish themselves in a competitive job market.

Getting a Graduate Assistantship in Intercollegiate Athletics 

Unlike traditional graduate assistantships, where the process is to first secure a place in a graduate program and then apply for an assistantship aligned with your study field, in intercollegiate athletics, the process can vary. At most institutions, prospective graduate assistants apply directly to the assistantship position, and there are affiliated academic programs that align with the GA’s intended career—in this case, sports.

GA positions in intercollegiate athletics can introduce you to a broad range of careers in sports, from management and marketing to event planning and team logistics. This cross-functional exposure ensures that your assistantship experience enhances your master’s degree and equips you with skills applicable in professional scenarios.

Typical Graduate Assistant Positions in Intercollegiate Athletics at SMU

Here are a few opportunities and roles that graduate assistants have at SMU, one of only 67 universities in a Power 4 conference in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).

Public Relations

Managing a team’s, as well as the university’s, public image is crucial. As a GA in public relations, you’ll craft press releases, manage social media presence, and be the bridge between the team, the media, and the community. This role is pivotal in shaping the team's —or university’s—public perception and requires skilled communication.

Administration

Behind every successful athletic program is a robust administrative structure. From business & finance to organizing schedules to handling logistics, administrative GAs keep the gears turning smoothly. This role is perfect for those who excel in organization and are interested in the behind-the-scenes work that supports athletic organizations.

Marketing

Creating excitement and driving engagement for sports teams and programs requires innovative marketing strategies. GAs in marketing work on promoting events, developing digital content, and engaging with the community. This role demands creativity and an understanding of marketing trends. 

Revenue Generation

GAs in revenue generation focus on identifying and implementing strategies for increasing the profitability of athletic organizations. Whether it’s through merchandising, ticket sales, or development, this role is crucial for sustaining the financial health of sports programs—never more critical in the NIL era.

Facilities

Operating and managing sports venues, potentially mixed-use facilities, is no small feat. Facilities GAs are involved in everything from scheduling and maintenance to ensuring safety standards are met. This role is suited for those with a keen eye for detail and a passion for sports operations.

Compliance

Maintaining program integrity within the NCAA guidelines is critical. Compliance GAs help monitor eligibility and enforce rules, ensuring the program operates within the legal and ethical framework. This role is essential for those interested in the regulatory aspect of sports.

Team Operations

GAs in team operations support the daily operations and logistics of a collegiate athletic team, including coordinating travel arrangements, practice schedules, and equipment management. They assist coaches and team staff in ensuring smooth operations so coaches and staff can be focused on game prep, recruiting, and winning championships. This role is suited for those with a strong understanding of specific sports with strong organizational and communication skills.

Recruiting

The future of any sports program lies in its talent. Recruiting GAs play a key role in scouting and attracting top talent, organizing tryouts, and managing recruitment events. This role is perfect for those who have a good eye for potential and enjoy the dynamics of team building.

Student-Athlete Success

GAs in student-athlete success support academic and personal development initiatives for student-athletes, helping them achieve their goals off the field. This role includes monitoring academic progress, coordinating mentorship and post-college career programs, and providing resources to promote an overall positive college experience.

Earning an MSSM Alongside an Intercollegiate GA Position 

Integrating a Master of Science in Sport Management degree along with a graduate assistantship is a strategic approach to career development in sport management. 

The MSSM program at SMU is tailored to provide hands-on experience in the sports industry in a premier NCAA Division I program, combining theoretical knowledge with practical insights. This combination equips you with a robust understanding of sports management principles and hands-on experience, setting you apart in the job market.

Compared to other potential master’s degrees, earning an MSSM is particularly advantageous if you are eager to start a career in the sports industry. A Master’s in Sport Management provides industry knowledge in key topics like sports marketing, finance, public relations, facilities, and law while opening doors to career opportunities in sports.

Kicking Off Your Career with SMU


If you are interested in a graduate assistant position in SMU athletics, consider earning an MSSM alongside your GA experience. To learn more about an MSSM, get access to our guide: Your Path to a Job in Sport Management–Pursue a Master’s in Sport Management. This is the #1 way to pursue a career in sports management in the #1 sports city in the world.