By Conner Poulin
In the dynamic world of sports, where legal issues intersect with athletic pursuits and entertainment, a solid education in sports law is increasingly essential for aspiring professionals. As the sports industry continues to grow and evolve, law schools across the United States are rising to the challenge, offering specialized programs designed to prepare students for careers at the forefront of this exciting field.
From the bustling sports hubs of New York City and Los Angeles to the academic bastions of Boston and Washington, D.C., a diverse array of institutions are providing cutting-edge sports law education. These programs cover everything from contract negotiation and intellectual property to compliance and dispute resolution, equipping students with the skills needed to navigate the complex legal landscape of sports.
In this article, we explore the top 25 sports law programs in the United States, highlighting their unique offerings, distinguished faculty, and innovative approaches. Whether you are drawn to a school known for its strong industry connections, its comprehensive curriculum, or its vibrant extracurricular opportunities, this guide will help you identify the best programs to propel your career in sports law.
- Brooklyn Law School
Brooklyn Law School’s sports law program stands out due to its strategic location in New York City, offering students unparalleled access to major sports teams, leagues, and sports representation agencies. Under the leadership of Professor Jodi Balsam—an esteemed expert in the field and co-author of a leading sports law casebook—the program provides significant opportunities for internships and networking. As the Director of Externship Programs, Balsam enhances these opportunities, enabling students to gain practical experience and forge valuable industry connections.
Brooklyn Law’s active student organization and the Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment Law Blog further strengthen the program. Additionally, the school hosts an annual sports law symposium. Balsam’s full-time presence on campus is highly beneficial, as she offers accessible mentoring and guidance on various aspects of sports law, including job placements and academic projects. This combination of prime location, expert faculty, and robust extracurricular activities makes Brooklyn Law a compelling choice for students aspiring to careers in sports law.
- College of Law at Florida State University
The College of Law at Florida State University offers a distinctive sports law program through its joint J.D./M.S. in Sport Management pathway. This innovative program enables students to earn both a law degree and a Master of Science in Sport Management concurrently, blending legal education with specialized expertise in sports management. Students complete 24 credit hours in sport management courses, such as Marketing Sport, Sport and the Media, and Issues in Sport Law, culminating in a thesis. This interdisciplinary approach provides a thorough understanding of both legal and managerial facets of the sports industry. Situated in Tallahassee, Florida, the program focuses on practical skills, including contract negotiation, player/agent dynamics, and fostering competitive conditions for player services.
- Duke University School of Law
Duke University School of Law offers a prestigious sports law program, bolstered by its Center for Sports Law and Policy, co-directed by Professors Paul Haagen and Doriane Coleman. This center significantly enhances Duke’s standing in the field by concentrating on the regulation, business, and social impact of sports across professional, Olympic, and educational levels. The Center’s initiatives, such as the “Future of College Sports” series, have featured influential speakers like Senator Cory Booker, addressing critical issues such as Name, Image, and Likeness legislation.
Located strategically near major sports hubs including Washington D.C., Charlotte, Atlanta, and Nashville, Duke provides students with valuable networking opportunities and professional connections. The program’s strong focus on practical and policy-oriented education, combined with its esteemed faculty, makes Duke Law a top choice for students aiming to advance in sports law.
- Fordham University School of Law
Fordham University School of Law offers a dynamic sports law program that takes full advantage of its prime location in New York City, a global center for sports and entertainment. The program leverages the city’s vibrant sports scene, providing students with unparalleled opportunities to immerse themselves in the industry. Central to the program’s offerings is the active Sports Law Society, which engages students through various events and activities that enhance their understanding of the field.
One of the program’s signature features is the National Basketball Negotiation Competition, a highly regarded annual event that draws participants and attention from across the sports law community. Held in conjunction with Fordham’s sports law symposium, this competition is a key component of the curriculum, showcasing students’ practical negotiation skills. The symposium, typically held in March, serves as a major forum for legal discussions and networking within the sports industry.
The sports law curriculum at Fordham is led by Professor Marc Edelman, a respected authority in the field, with additional contributions from attorney Dan Lust. This expert faculty ensures that students receive rigorous and up-to-date instruction, preparing them for successful careers in the fast-paced world of sports law.
- Harvard Law School
Harvard Law School’s sports law program, led by Professor Peter Carfagna, stands out for its comprehensive curriculum and hands-on learning opportunities. The program features a unique Sports Law Clinic that offers students real-world experience through placements with major sports organizations, leagues, and agencies. Specialized courses in legal frameworks of sports leagues, advanced contract drafting, and athlete representation are complemented by tailored externships, equipping students with practical skills essential for a career in sports law.
Additionally, the program benefits from the Harvard Journal of Sports and Entertainment Law, an active student organization, and an annual sports law symposium that showcases prominent speakers. Harvard’s strong alumni network and prestigious reputation further enhance graduates’ prospects in securing roles within top law firms or the sports industry, making it a premier choice for those pursuing a career in sports law.
- Marquette University Law School
Marquette University Law School’s Sports Law program, directed by Professor Paul Anderson, is renowned for its extensive and immersive approach to the field. The program offers 17 specialized courses and allows students to earn a Sports Law Certificate through the National Sports Law Institute (NSLI). Its strong focus on practical experience is highlighted by 35 internship opportunities each semester with major organizations such as the NCAA, Major League Baseball, and Nike.
Students can also contribute to the Marquette Sports Law Review, engage in national competitions, and participate in various student organizations dedicated to sports law. The program’s annual summer seminar and fall conference keep students connected to current industry trends and networking opportunities. By combining rigorous academic study with hands-on skills in contract negotiation, dispute resolution, and business planning, Marquette prepares its graduates for successful careers in the sports industry and prominent law firms. The program’s robust alumni network and active involvement in national events further bolster career prospects for its students.
- New York School of Law
New York Law School (NYLS) has rapidly established itself as a leading institution in sports law, thanks to its strategic location in New York City and its innovative program under the guidance of adjunct professor Dan Lust. The program offers distinctive features such as the NIL Pro Bono Project, which provides education and legal support on Name, Image, and Likeness issues; the NYLS Soccer Negotiation Competition; and an annual sports law symposium held in March or April. The curriculum is further enhanced by the addition of the “Advanced Sports Law” course, offering students a comprehensive and up-to-date education in the field. With these unique offerings, NYLS is a compelling choice for students aiming to build a career in sports law.
- Pepperdine Caruso School of Law
Pepperdine Caruso School of Law offers a vibrant sports law program under the leadership of Professor Maureen Weston, located in Malibu, California, close to the major sports and entertainment hub of Los Angeles. The program features both a Certificate in Entertainment, Media, and Sports Law (EMS) and an LL.M. in EMS, providing students with specialized knowledge in this dynamic field.
The curriculum is enriched by extensive experiential learning opportunities, including externships, personalized mentoring, and international study tours. These tours, conducted by Professor Weston and Court of Arbitration for Sport Arbitrator Jeff Benz, allow students to gain firsthand experience in global sports law practices in destinations such as London, Switzerland, and Paris.
Pepperdine’s program also emphasizes international sports law, offering courses that explore both U.S. and global perspectives on sports dispute resolution. The school hosts a variety of conferences on current topics like Esports, Olympic sports, and sports gambling, showcasing its commitment to leading-edge sports law education. Additionally, the active student Sports & Entertainment Law Society and collaborations with the Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution further enrich the learning experience. With its comprehensive curriculum and strategic location, Pepperdine Caruso School of Law is an outstanding choice for students aspiring to excel in sports law.
- Santa Clara University School of Law
Santa Clara University School of Law is launching a new certificate in sports law this fall to address the growing demand for legal expertise in the $100 billion sports industry. This unique certificate, the only one offered by Bay Area law schools and among a select few in California, is designed to provide specialized education in sports law, including business, contract, labor, antitrust, intellectual property, and athlete representation. Leonard Lun, J.D./MBA ’00, an adjunct professor with extensive experience in sports and entertainment law, will oversee the program.
The certificate program will benefit from Santa Clara Law’s strong connections in the sports industry and its established curriculum in high-tech law. Students will gain practical experience and professional networking opportunities through the Sports & Entertainment Law Society, which has over 100 members. The program, set to run as a pilot for three years, aims to enhance students’ marketability and readiness for careers in sports law by offering a comprehensive understanding of relevant legal issues and access to industry professionals.
Associate Dean Laura Norris highlighted that the program embodies Santa Clara Law’s commitment to blending academic rigor with real-world applications in a sports-centric region. The certificate is designed to prepare students for various roles within the sports industry, including legal and J.D. Advantage positions, and is expected to significantly improve their employment prospects and career development in this dynamic field.
- Seattle University School of Law
Seattle University School of Law offers a unique Sports Law program led by Kelli Rodriguez, focusing on the intersection of sports, law, and ethics. Designed for those pursuing careers in the expanding sports industry, the program emphasizes compliance, risk management, and the legal complexities of both professional and amateur sports. The Master of Legal Studies (MLS) in Sports Law and Sports Law Compliance equips students to address issues such as Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL), intellectual property, and labor law, while emphasizing ethical decision-making.
Situated in a vibrant sports market, Seattle U Law provides practical experience through internships and externships with local professional teams and the athletics departments of the University of Washington and Seattle University. The program also benefits from strong industry connections, with an advisory board featuring top legal professionals from the Seattle Seahawks, Mariners, Kraken, and other major sports organizations. This comprehensive approach, combined with the school’s commitment to social justice, establishes Seattle U Law as a leading institution in sports law education.
- Seton Hall Law School
Seton Hall Law School offers an extensive Gaming, Hospitality, Entertainment & Sports Law (GHamES) program, recently approved as a certificate program. Under the leadership of Associate Dean Devon Corneal and Professor Robert Boland, the program takes advantage of New Jersey’s pioneering role in sports betting and its proximity to New York City, providing students with exceptional opportunities in sports law, gaming law, and entertainment law. The curriculum features specialized courses such as Sports Negotiations and Collegiate Sports Law, complemented by practical experiences including monthly Sports Law Dialogues and an annual Sports Law Symposium.
The program’s dedication to sports law is further supported by the Interdisciplinary Center for the Study of Sports, which collaborates with the Business School and Center for Sports Journalism at Seton Hall. This interdisciplinary approach ensures a well-rounded education and broad networking opportunities for students. Additionally, the student-run Entertainment and Sports Law Society (ESLS) enriches the program by organizing events, managing a blog, and supporting students in negotiation competitions. These features make Seton Hall a compelling choice for those aiming to build a career in sports law.
- Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law – Arizona State University
The Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University (ASU) distinguishes itself as a premier institution for aspiring sports law professionals by seamlessly blending legal education with business acumen. Under the leadership of Professor Glenn Wong, the program is uniquely positioned at the intersection of sports, law, and business, thanks to its collaboration with the Arizona State athletic department and the W.P. Carey School of Business. ASU offers a Master of Sports Law and Business (MSLB) degree, as well as a concurrent J.D./MSLB program, making it the only school in the U.S. to offer such an integrated curriculum. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that students receive a comprehensive education tailored to the demands of the modern sports industry.
Located in the sports-centric city of Phoenix, ASU provides unparalleled access to professional opportunities. Phoenix is a hub for major sporting events like the Super Bowl, NCAA Final Four, and the Waste Management Phoenix Open, offering students valuable internship and networking opportunities. The school’s strong connections with local sports organizations, including the Arizona Diamondbacks, Phoenix Suns, and NASCAR events, further enhance these experiences, allowing students to gain practical skills in a dynamic sports market.
ASU’s program also boasts a distinguished faculty, including industry veterans such as Aaron Hernandez, former NCAA Associate Director of Football, and Stephanie Jarvis, former General Counsel of the Fiesta Bowl. The program, named after former MLB Commissioner Bud Selig, who serves as a Distinguished Professor, brings real-world experience directly into the classroom. Additionally, students can contribute to the Arizona State Sports and Entertainment Law Journal, one of the nation’s longest-running sports law journals, engaging in scholarly discourse and legal writing.
In summary, the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law’s sports law program is an exceptional choice for students aiming to enter the sports industry. Its integration of legal and business education, combined with strategic location and strong industry connections, equips students with the skills and opportunities necessary to thrive in a competitive field.
- Tulane University School of Law
Tulane University School of Law offers one of the nation’s leading sports law programs, directed by Professor Gabe Feldman. Known for its innovative approach, Tulane was the first U.S. law school to offer a sports law certificate for J.D. students. The program is distinguished by a strong alumni network and extensive opportunities for students to engage in practical experiences and industry connections.
A key feature of the program is its Sports Law Mentorship Program, which pairs current students with alumni working in the sports industry. In 2022, over 160 sports executives, many of whom are Tulane graduates, participated in this program and other signature events like the Sports Law Society Speaker Series and the Women in Sports Law Symposium. Students also have the chance to contribute to the Sports Law Journal, produce The Sports Lawyer newsletter, and participate in high-profile negotiation competitions.
Tulane’s Sports Law Program integrates rigorous academics with hands-on experiences, preparing students for successful careers in sports law and beyond. By offering access to events like the Sports Lawyers Association conference and emphasizing the broader applicability of sports law, the program equips students with skills that are valuable across various legal fields.
- UCLA School of Law
UCLA School of Law is a premier choice for students pursuing sports law, distinguished by its strong academic reputation and its prime location in Los Angeles, a key center for the entertainment and sports industries. The Ziffren Institute for Media, Entertainment, Technology, and Sports Law offers specialized courses such as the Sports Law Simulation and the Talent & Brand Partnerships/Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Clinic. These courses emphasize experiential learning, providing students with hands-on experience through projects like collaborating with the General Counsel of the Los Angeles Dodgers.
The program is further enriched by events like the Global Sports Forum, hosted annually in the fall in partnership with the business school. This forum, along with other industry-focused events, offers students valuable opportunities to connect with leaders from major entertainment and sports organizations. Coupled with access to internships and externships at top talent agencies and sports teams, UCLA School of Law ensures its students are well-positioned at the cutting edge of the sports law field.
- University of California, Berkley, School of Law
The University of California, Berkeley, School of Law is a premier institution that integrates sports law with its prestigious Center for Law & Technology. Located near Silicon Valley, Berkeley is an ideal choice for those interested in the intersection of sports, technology, and digital media. Under the leadership of Executive Director Wayne Stacy, the program offers a diverse curriculum, including courses such as Drafting and Negotiating Sports Law Contracts and Video Game Law, reflecting the evolving nature of sports law in the digital era.
Starting in the spring, UC Berkeley’s sports law program will introduce an NIL Clinic, where students will offer legal advice to student-athletes across California, particularly those from universities without their own law schools. This initiative highlights Berkeley’s commitment to increasing access to legal resources in the burgeoning field of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). Additionally, the law school hosts an annual conference each April, providing further opportunities for academic and professional development.
With its strong focus on intellectual property and technology regulation, UC Berkeley School of Law offers a distinctive environment for exploring the legal challenges and opportunities in modern media, entertainment, and sports. The collaboration between the Media, Entertainment & Sports Law Center and other specialized centers ensures that students are well-equipped to navigate and shape the future of these industries.
- University of Florida Levin College of Law
The University of Florida Levin College of Law has rapidly emerged as a key player in the sports law industry, especially within the Florida legal market. The program offers a comprehensive Entertainment & Sports Law Roadmap, guiding students through a well-structured series of courses designed to equip them with essential knowledge and skills for a career in sports law. A standout feature is the sports law course taught by Darren Heitner, a nationally recognized sports lawyer and UF alumnus known for his significant contributions to the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) space. Heitner’s course is particularly dynamic, featuring a “live syllabus” that adapts annually to reflect current events and real-world issues, ensuring the content remains highly relevant and practical.
Beyond its strong academic foundation, UF Levin College of Law provides students with ample opportunities to engage directly with the sports industry. The school hosts an annual sports law symposium in the spring, attracting industry leaders to discuss emerging trends and challenges. Students also have the chance to contribute to the Florida Entertainment and Sports Law Review, a student-run publication that delves into legal issues within the sports and entertainment sectors. While Gainesville may not be a major sports and legal hub, the university’s connections to Florida’s vibrant sports market—including professional teams like the Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and organizations such as the PGA TOUR—offer students valuable externship opportunities, including placements with the LPGA and the Women’s Sports Foundation.
Overall, the University of Florida Levin College of Law’s sports law program is distinguished by its rigorous academic offerings, practical learning experiences, and strong ties to the broader sports industry. These elements make it an excellent choice for students eager to enter the competitive field of sports law, particularly in a state as rich in sports opportunities as Florida.
- University of Georgia Law School
The University of Georgia School of Law offers a distinctive joint MS/J.D. program in Sport Management, which can be completed in just four years. Students can choose to start with either the MS or JD degree and use their final year to fulfill requirements for both programs. The MS component offers both thesis and non-thesis options, providing flexibility based on students’ career goals.
UGA Law’s sports law curriculum delivers a thorough education in areas such as contract negotiation and sports law fundamentals. Courses are taught by experts like John Cooper, and students gain practical insights from guest speakers such as Jonathan Smith of the Atlanta Braves. The program’s strong connections with sports organizations and law firms provide valuable networking and hands-on experience opportunities.
The Sport and Entertainment Law Society at UGA Law further enriches the program by organizing events like conferences and mock negotiations. Additionally, students have access to externships with the UGA Athletic Department and connections with industry professionals. Located in Athens, Georgia, UGA Law is celebrated for its academic excellence and supportive community, making it an excellent choice for those pursuing a career in sports law.
- University of Miami School of Law
The University of Miami School of Law boasts a vibrant Sports Law program, leveraging its prime South Florida location—a major hub for the entertainment and sports industries. Under the leadership of Dean Greg Levy, the program offers a comprehensive and practice-oriented education that integrates sports, entertainment, and arts law.
Miami Law is unique in offering a joint J.D./LL.M. degree in Entertainment, Arts, and Sports Law, allowing students to earn both degrees in under four years. This accelerated program provides a deep dive into these interconnected fields with a forward-looking curriculum featuring innovative courses like “Chat ENT: AI’s Impact on Entertainment and Sports” and “Blank Spaces: IP Law Through the Lens of Taylor Swift and Others.”
Experiential learning is a cornerstone of the program, with students gaining hands-on experience through site visits to local sports teams, entertainment companies, and art institutions. Opportunities for practical skill-building include the Litigation Skills Program, International Moot Court, and various legal clinics. The Sports Law Society and an annual spring symposium further enrich the student experience by connecting students with industry professionals. Miami Law’s strategic location also provides unique opportunities to engage with the diverse sports landscape of South Florida and explore international law, especially relevant to those interested in Latin American markets.
- University of Minnesota School of Law
The University of Minnesota School of Law has quickly emerged as a prominent force in sports law, particularly with its pioneering focus on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) issues. Notably, Minnesota was among the first law schools to establish a clinic dedicated to providing pro bono NIL legal services, offering students invaluable hands-on experience that sets it apart from other programs. This clinic, coupled with the law school’s strong reputation in the Midwest, highlights Minnesota’s growing influence in the sports law arena.
As part of a top 20 law school and a major Power 5 university, Minnesota Law benefits from its location in a dynamic Midwestern city known for its innovative spirit. The program’s offerings are further enriched by the introduction of a sports law moot court competition in 2023, and a symposium this past spring. These new initiatives demonstrate the program’s commitment to enhancing its educational and practical resources for students aspiring to careers in sports law.
- University of Mississippi Law Center
The University of Mississippi Law Center, known as Ole Miss, offers a comprehensive sports law program under the leadership of Professor William Berry. Located within the SEC, Ole Miss benefits from a deep connection to college athletics. The program features a concentration in sports and entertainment law, allowing students to develop expertise through courses in amateur and professional sports law, entertainment law, and intellectual property.
What sets Ole Miss apart is its strong affiliation with the SEC, exemplified by Professor Ron Rychlak’s role as Faculty Athletic Representative and board member of the SEC. These connections create unique internship opportunities for students within the university’s compliance department and general counsel’s office. Additionally, Ole Miss hosts an annual sports law symposium and publishes the Mississippi Sports Law Review, providing students with valuable platforms for professional growth.
For students aiming to pursue careers in college athletics or within the Southeastern United States, Ole Miss offers a competitive and well-established program with a robust emphasis on intercollegiate sports law.
- University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law
The University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law offers a highly esteemed Sports and Entertainment Law program, led by Professor Michael McCann, a renowned sports law expert and regular contributor to Sportico. The program is particularly notable for its strong emphasis on intellectual property (IP) law, consistently ranked among the top 10 IP law schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. This focus on IP is seamlessly woven into the sports law curriculum, with innovative offerings like one of the country’s first courses on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights, introduced in 2020.
The Sports and Entertainment Law Institute (SELI) at UNH provides students with a robust education that extends beyond traditional classroom learning. The program offers a sports law certificate, specialized training in sports betting law, and hands-on experiences through the UNH Sports Law Review and two annual symposia. These events feature influential figures such as Congresswoman Lori Trahan, a key advocate for college sports reform, and cover high-profile legal disputes like the ongoing battle between the PGA TOUR and LIV Golf. Students also gain practical experience through legal residencies and externships with leading organizations, including Sony Music, Under Armour, and the Dallas Cowboys.
Collaboration with the Franklin Pierce Center for Intellectual Property enhances the program, allowing students to explore the intersection of sports, entertainment, and IP law. This integration provides access to a wide array of IP courses and expert faculty, further enriching their legal education. With its strong academic foundation and comprehensive practical training, UNH positions its graduates for success in the rapidly evolving sports and entertainment law fields.
- University of Oregon School of Law
The University of Oregon School of Law boasts a distinctive sports law program, bolstered by its strong affiliation with Nike and its prime location in the Pacific Northwest. A standout feature of the program is the Summer Sports Law Institute (SSLI), a five-week course that has been attracting students and experts from around the globe for over a decade. The SSLI offers an immersive experience covering diverse topics such as antitrust law, labor law, intellectual property, NCAA compliance, and international sports arbitration. This program is also open to students from other institutions.
Oregon Law further enhances its sports law curriculum with specialized courses like Amateur and Professional Sports Law and International Sports Law. The latter includes an annual study trip to London or Lausanne, offering students valuable international exposure and networking opportunities. Additionally, the curriculum is enriched through practical experiences such as internships and clinics, with students benefiting from the expertise of prominent faculty members, including Professor Robert Illig and former Nike attorney Paul Loving.
Students also have access to extracurricular activities through the Sports and Entertainment Law Forum and the Oregon Sports and Entertainment Conference. The program’s connections to major sports entities, such as Nike and Adidas, as well as local teams like the Portland Trail Blazers, offer significant networking and career advancement opportunities. Overall, the University of Oregon School of Law is a premier destination for aspiring sports law professionals, offering a comprehensive and industry-connected education.
- University of Texas at Austin School of Law
The University of Texas at Austin School of Law offers a strong foundation for students interested in sports law, especially those aiming to enter the growing Texas legal market. With its robust athletics department and close connections to the state’s expansive sports industry, UT Austin provides a blend of academic excellence and sports-focused opportunities. Notably, the law school features an online, self-paced Sports Law Specialist Certificate program, allowing students to acquire specialized knowledge in sports law on their own schedule.
While the law school’s sports law journal is currently inactive, UT Austin remains a significant force in shaping future sports lawyers. The program benefits from the expertise of Professor Ariel Dulitzky, whose research delves into the intersection of sports and human rights. Dulitzky also chairs the university’s Student Athletes and Activities Committee, enhancing the school’s involvement with sports law issues. Despite having fewer offerings compared to some other leading sports law programs, UT Austin’s strategic location and academic rigor make it a vital institution for those pursuing a career in sports law in Texas and beyond.
- University of Virginia School of Law
The University of Virginia (UVA) School of Law is an exceptional choice for students pursuing a career in sports law, thanks to its esteemed reputation, strategic proximity to Washington, D.C., and a robust sports law curriculum. The program benefits from the expertise of faculty members like Professor Sarah Hartley, who focuses on the structural, governance, and commercial aspects of sports at all levels, from amateur to professional.
UVA offers two specialized sports law courses and provides students with the opportunity to contribute to the Virginia Sports and Entertainment Law Journal. The program is further enriched by winter and spring symposia that address current issues and trends in sports law. Additionally, annual courses led by Professor Mark S. Levinstein and Professor Donald L. Dell add depth to the curriculum. With a strong network of alumni in the sports law sector, UVA offers a comprehensive education and valuable connections in the field.
- Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law
Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law’s sports law program is a leading choice for students aiming to build careers in sports law. Situated near Philadelphia and within reach of New York City, the program is spearheaded by Professor Andrew Brandt, a former sports agent and Green Bay Packers executive. Under Brandt’s leadership, Villanova has established a comprehensive sports law curriculum, offering students ample opportunities for practical experience and professional networking. Central to the program is The Jeffrey S. Moorad Center for the Study of Sports Law, one of the few institutes in the country exclusively dedicated to this field.
Students in the program engage with the sports law community through a variety of avenues, including an active sports law society, a speaker series featuring industry leaders, and the prestigious Moorad Symposium, held annually. Additionally, students contribute to the Jeffrey S. Moorad Sports Law Journal and a dedicated sports law blog, with first-year students having the chance to publish on current issues. Practical experience is further enhanced through externships with top-tier organizations like the NFL, the Philadelphia Eagles, and Wasserman Media Group, equipping students with the skills needed for successful careers in both amateur and professional sports.
Villanova’s sports law program combines academic rigor with real-world experience, ensuring that its graduates are well-prepared to excel in the competitive sports law landscape. The program’s specialized coursework, hands-on learning opportunities, and the mentorship of industry experts like Brandt make it a formidable contender in the legal education arena.
Conner is a recent graduate of the University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law. Conner has spent his legal career working on complex contracts, intellectual property matters, and writing for Hackney Publications and UNH’s Sports Law Review. Conner is looking forward to continuing to write and hopes to break into the Sports world soon.
