Seton Hall University will once again offer its Sports Media and Business Academy this summer, now with an added residential option for high school students. The one-week program, running from July 20-24 on the South Orange campus, aims to introduce participants to various aspects of the sports industry.
The academy provides two enrollment options: a commuter format at $1,200 and a new residential experience at $2,500, which includes campus housing and meals. By introducing on-campus accommodation, Seton Hall intends to broaden the program’s reach beyond local students.
“We are now able to welcome students nationally who want to study sports media and business in a structured, academically rigorous environment,” said B.J. Schecter, executive director of the Center for Sports Media, who will teach the course. “Students will gain direct exposure to how the industry operates, from revenue models and media rights to ethics, innovation and cultural impact. They will also engage with professionals who are shaping the future of sports.”
The academy is targeted at high school students interested in fields such as sports journalism, media production, marketing, analytics, brand partnerships and entrepreneurship within sports. The curriculum covers topics like race, gender equity, amateurism and ethics as they relate to the global sports industry.
Throughout more than 25 hours of instruction and workshops during the week-long session, students work in teams on business concepts or media content projects that culminate in formal presentations. Participants also use Seton Hall’s production facilities and digital studios for hands-on learning.
In addition to classroom activities, there is an optional trip planned to a professional sporting event that has yet to be announced. This excursion is designed to provide insights into live event operations and strategies for engaging fans.
Bryan Crable, dean of the College of Human Development, Culture, and Media commented on the program’s approach: “This Academy reflects our commitment to preparing students for an industry that is evolving rapidly. By combining academic analysis and presentations from leading sports media figures with practical production experience, students leave with both conceptual understanding and tangible skills.”
A previous participant shared his experience: “For me, the Sports Media and Business Academy really helped to decide that I would become a Pirate,” said Matthew Merlino of Pascack Hills High School in Montvale. “Being able to see all that the Seton Hall Sports Media program has to offer, and having the ability to meet important people associated with the program, really put The Hall on my radar as a potential destination. Anyone who is thinking about studying Sports Media or Business would be hard-pressed to not enroll in this great program!”
The academy is run through Seton Hall’s Division of Continuing Education and Professional Studies along with its College of Human Development, Culture & Media’s Center for Sports Media. Led by B.J. Schecter—who brings extensive industry experience—the program features guest speakers from across sports media as well as collaborative projects designed to prepare students for college-level coursework or careers in related fields.
Enrollment for both commuter and residential spots is currently open but limited.
