Why Sports & Entertainment Management Needs London Insight?

The MSc in Sports, Entertainment & Lifestyle Management (MSc in SEL) at emlyon business school is more than just a business program. It’s a strategic gateway into the fast-evolving “experience economy” and London, with its world-leading sports and entertainment ecosystem, provides the perfect live learning lab.

Earlier this year, students traveled to London for a week-long seminar designed to immerse them in the heart of the industry. From exclusive visits to agencies like Octagon and CAA to conversations with executives from the NFL and Tottenham Hotspur, the experience was nothing short of transformative.

“London is a hub for sport, media, and culture. Being here allowed us to see how these sectors connect in boardrooms, not just on the field,” shared one student.

This type of immersive experience is a cornerstone of emlyon’s MSc in SEL — a program that goes far beyond the classroom.

Learning At The Intersection Of Business And Culture

The sports and entertainment sectors are no longer just about talent and spectacle. They are billion-dollar industries driven by data, branding, sustainability, and innovation. emlyon’s approach reflects this reality.

During the London seminar, students engaged directly with professionals shaping the business side of the industry. Topics ranged from influencer marketing to fan engagement, media rights, and venue innovation.

They also visited culturally significant institutions like the Design Museum, highlighting how lifestyle trends influence business strategy. This interdisciplinary learning is at the core of what emlyon calls “makers” education: forming leaders who don’t just adapt to change, they drive it. 

Global Perspective, Industry Access

London is one of several global hotspots that MSc in SEL students explore. The program is structured around both academic rigor and industry immersion, blending coursework with company projects, site visits, and networking.

Other seminars take place in cities such as Milan and Paris, each offering unique market insights in fashion, luxury, and lifestyle industries that are deeply interconnected with sports and entertainment.

What Sets The MSc In SEL Apart?

• Real-world projects with top-tier companies
• Faculty with deep industry ties
• Career coaching and mentorship
• A class of students from around the world

By the time they graduate, students are prepared to join global agencies, league offices, event firms, or launch their own ventures. 

From Classroom To Career

Alumni of the program have gone on to work at companies like Nike, UEFA, Live Nation, and Lagardère Sports, holding roles in brand partnerships, business development, and strategic planning.

What they share is a mindset shaped by applied learning and international exposure, including unforgettable moments like standing on the pitch at a Premier League stadium or pitching a new event strategy to professionals at the top of their game.

Want To Learn More?

The MSc in Sports, Entertainment & Lifestyle Management is open to applicants from diverse academic backgrounds who are passionate about the industry and ready to make an impact.

Discover the full program here

Read the original seminar recap on emlyon’s website

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At emlyon business school, we’re proud to be among the top 1% of business schools worldwide, with triple accreditation (EQUIS, AACSB, and AMBA), over 130 nationalities on campus, and a global network of 48,000 alumni.

The MSc in Sports, Entertainment & Lifestyle Management prepares future leaders to thrive in the experience economy through real-world projects, international exposure, and strong industry partnerships across sport, entertainment, and lifestyle sectors.