From 2023, The Global Institute of Sport (GIS), an education institution covering Master’s degrees in the world of football and the sports industry, will offer degrees tailored specifically to Australians. 

Launching in January 2023, The GIS says the new program will give aspiring Australian administrators and coaches the opportunity to learn from highly regarded global sporting academics.

Participants are given the opportunity to study online or within a blended model, utilising Australia’s GIS hub, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), during periods of the degree for onsite learning. 

With a strong association to football in the UK, The GIS Australian tailored Master’s degrees will include; MSc Football Coaching & Analysis, MSc International Sport Management and MSc Football Business. 

As a result of this tie to UK football, many of the UK’s leading administers will be teaching the degrees including; Christopher Winn (co-author of the Deloitte Football Money League), Mike Walsh (coached at Manchester United, Manchester City, Preston North End, Blackpool and Wrexham) and Danielle Prescott (professional scout at Manchester United). 

GIS chairman and former director of Premier League club Burnley FC, Brendan Flood, said: “Our aim is to offer a unique educational opportunity for those who are motivated and want to enhance their journey within the sports industry.”

“We know Australia is one of the world’s greatest sporting nations.

“With the MCG at the heart of that, we believe these Master’s degrees will provide the tools to help students secure their desired career path whether that be in administration or coaching,” said Flood.

In addition to the Master’s degree, GIS is also offering an educational opportunity for aspiring AFL administrators with the Certificate in the Business of Australian Football.

The course is designed to enhance students’ understanding of the multidisciplinary business of the AFL and AFLW, focusing on components of AFL recruiting, list management, football operations and football department leadership.

Former Melbourne CEO and general manager of football at Collingwood FC, Geoff Walsh, will host the sessions spanning over two days at the MCG, with the current head of football at Carlton FC, Brad Lloyd appearing as a guest presenter. 

The course will run on July 6th and July 7th 2022.