[Source: WAoS] The proposed programme is aimed at anyone interested in international sports management and innovation, and is intended to be delivered through the University of London’s distance and flexible learning offer. The distance learning section of the University has 51,000 students studying in 180 countries on more than 100 study programmes, and with a further 1.4 million learners on its MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses), making it the world’s largest classroom.  

Dr Mary Stiasny OBE, Pro Vice-Chancellor (International) University of London, said: “We are delighted to be working with the World Academy of Sport which, like the University, has a global reach. Our work together aims to provide access to training opportunities for those in the industry as well as for those wishing to enter the sporting profession and related fields. The University prides itself in continuously innovating and delivering programmes that are in demand from both its students and employers alike.

“We appreciate the significance and the growth of this global sporting industry, which has an estimated value of some US$600 billion per annum, making it one of the most successful sectors in the world,” she added.

WAoS specialises in providing customised education to the world’s sporting community and its International Advisory Board Chairman, Francois Carrard, said: “Our work with the University follows a successful pilot with Royal Holloway, University of London. I thank Professor Paul Layzell, Principal of Royal Holloway, for the smooth transition to the University of London, and the opportunity to explore making high quality training available across the world. This move will allow us to continue to grow and support the international sporting industry. With many changes taking place in the sporting sector from media convergence to e-gaming and social media, provision that focuses on ‘international sport management and innovation’ will be very welcome.”

Chris Solly, Director of WAoS, stressed the importance of combining a local sporting context with the global picture in all aspects of sports management. He added: “Local partnerships with communities and, most importantly, with youth are critical to the long-term growth and future success of the global sport and major events industry. We are therefore delighted that the University of London has agreed to work with WAoS to develop this important provision.”

Further details on this unique development will be provided in October 2018.