Faculty Recruitment Trends for 2018–2022 for Sport Management Education in Japan

This study examined trends in the recruitment of sport management faculty at Japanese universities from 2018 to 2022. A content analysis of 186 faculty job postings revealed that 91 universities (48.9%) offered academic programs in sport management. Postings from physical education departments increased, whereas those from business and economics declined, with most openings in urban areas. Universities favored mid-career candidates and placed a strong emphasis on teaching experience. Key teaching areas included “Management/Leadership,” “Marketing,” “Lifelong/Community/Health Sports,” and “Social/Cultural/Historical Aspects.” These trends highlight shifting institutional needs and provide insights for curriculum design and doctoral training in sport management education.