ANNOUNCING TMU-FIFA-CIES International Programme
TMU teams up with FIFA-CIES University Network to shape sport professionals
The Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) is proud to announce a groundbreaking global partnership with the CIES through the FIFA-CIES International University Network, officially launching the TMU-FIFA-CIES International Program.
This global program marks a major milestone for sport education in Canada, establishing TMU as the North American academic home for CIES training activities. Endorsed by Canada Soccer, the initiative reflects the country’s growing influence in the global sport ecosystem and creates a lasting academic legacy ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
“Our partnership with CIES in collaboration with FIFA is an exciting step in advancing TMU’s vision for future-ready leadership,” says Natalie Álvarez, Dean, The Creative School at TMU. “This programme equips participants with both the theoretical foundations and practical tools of modern management, while also preparing them to navigate the cultural, economic, and political complexities that shape sport systems worldwide. At a moment when sport plays an increasingly visible role in questions of identity, equity, and public life, leadership across global contexts requires the capacity to work across diverse knowledge systems, foster reciprocal exchange, and build inclusive and sustainable sport ecosystems. This initiative serves as a vital link, advancing these shared commitments and connecting our community to dynamic global networks.”
This partnership with CIES, in collaboration with FIFA reflects TMU’s commitment to preparing future-ready leaders, fostering global collaboration, and creating meaningful impact both locally and internationally.
Designed for mid- to senior-level professionals across sport organizations, federations, clubs, sport corporate sponsors, media organizations, and sport business sectors, the program delivers 150-200 hours of comprehensive coursework. Participants will gain critical expertise in sport governance, leadership, sponsorship and revenue generation, and legal aspects and event operations through a curriculum that blends theory with real-world application.
Modules will cover key areas including communication, sports law, marketing and sponsorship, management, finance, and event management, equipping professionals with the strategic and operational tools needed to drive sustainable growth in sport.
“This globally recognized partnership reflects TMU’s commitment to shaping sport professionals through academic excellence and international collaboration. Partnering with CIES (based in Switzerland) in collaboration with FIFA, the governing body of the world’s most popular sport, strengthens TMU’s role within the global sport ecosystem and connects us with top international sport education networks and industry experts", says Laurel Walzak, Associate Professor, RTA Sport Media, TMU, and who is appointed Program Director and Scientific Coordinator of the TMU‑FIFA‑CIES International Programme.
Launching in January 2027, the year-long, part-time program will be delivered through a blended format, combining in-person sessions in Toronto with online learning. The inaugural cohort will include 30 participants, fostering a highly engaged and collaborative learning environment.
Beyond education, the partnership will unlock new opportunities for scholarships, research, and industry collaboration, further strengthening North America’s position within FIFA-CIES’ global network of 22 partner universities.
“This partnership with CIES in collaboration with FIFA positions TMU at the forefront of global sport education,” says Sadia Kamran, Associate Director, External Relations and International Development, TMU. “By connecting Canadian expertise with an international network, we are creating opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and lasting impact across the world of sports.”
This initiative represents more than a program launch; it is a step forward in shaping the future of sport leadership in Canada and beyond.
Interested in applying? Email at tmu.fifa.cies@torontomu.ca
EMAIL US TO LEARN MORE
COMING SOON - RESEARCH - ESPORTS
Concentration and Control of Organized Esports: E-Dominance (Walzak & Dubois 2026).
RECENT RESEARCH - AI & Sports
⚽ "In collaboration with a professional North American soccer (football) team, this experimental study investigates the impact of using AI-anonymized game footage on scouts’ assessments" (Dubois & Walzak, 2025).
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Founded in 2018, the Global Experiential Sport Lab (GXSLab) is part of the Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University. We are a leading global sport and entertainment research and consulting lab, with physical capabilities in Canada, and recently in the UK, as well as remote capabilities globally.
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GXSLab is the connection between scholarly research and industry practice in sport and sport media. GXSLab focuses on the intersection and knowledge transfer between Globalization, Digitization and Commercialization.
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A distinctive emphasis is placed on collaboration between scholars, students, faculty and industry initiatives, to remain on the cutting edge in the world of connectivity and in the ever-evolving sport and sport media industry, and to achieve global status and recognition as a leader in interdisciplinary research design and experience.
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“As social distancing was taking its toll on everyone, Joe and I were concerned that while sports were on pause, so were sports conversation and creation. We wanted to develop a way to unite our students and the sports community by providing a space for the sports industry and sports academics to collaborate. Thus, SportTokz with SportProfz was born”. Laurel Walzak, Associate Professor.
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Systematic, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches are used in conjunction with artificial intelligence. Whether it is commissioned projects, joint collaborations, partnerships and/ or designed by demand, we approach with confidentiality and research ethics at the forefront.
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