New Sports Ministry minor added to AU’s academic offerings

ASHLAND, Ohio – Ashland University is adding a unique program to its academic offerings—a minor in Sports Ministry—that aligns with two interests of many AU students. The new minor, designed for those who want to combine their passion for athletics with their commitment to faith and leadership, will be available starting in fall 2026.

The interdisciplinary minor is a collaboration between the departments of religion and marketing, fashion merchandising and brand management and sport management, bringing together coursework from both the College of Arts and Sciences and the Dauch College of Business and Economics.

Integrating these two in-demand fields, especially at a place like AU, seemed like a natural fit for Peter Slade, Ph.D., professor of religion.

“Many students at AU are passionate about their faith and are actively involved in athletics,” said Slade. “After graduating, they will be involved in sports ministries, some professionally, but most as volunteers in their communities and churches. We really believe this minor will help equip our students to work, serve and lead with integrity.”

Students who enroll in the Sports Ministry minor can expect to build skills in team leadership, spiritual development and service, while gaining preparation for a variety of career paths and volunteer opportunities in faith-based athletic settings.

“A minor in Sports Ministry will distinguish our students applying for jobs in faith-based organizations, which could include schools, colleges, churches and para-church ministries," commented Slade.

Laura Kruger, assistant professor of marketing and sport management, is excited to work together with campus partners on this new initiative and to see how students grow in their character, faith and knowledge.

“This is a true partnership. Two colleges partnered together to craft this minor due to the growing interests of students in sports, their faith and serving others,” said Kruger.

University leaders believe the Sports Ministry minor will provide students with a distinctive combination of practical leadership training, spiritual development and athletic engagement that reflects AU’s overall mission of shaping graduates who work, serve and lead with integrity in their communities.

Ashland University is a mid-size, private university conveniently located halfway between Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio. Offering undergraduate, graduate and professional programs, AU puts the “Accent on the Individual” by combining strong applied academic programs with a distinguished faculty and staff who build nurturing relationships with their students.