Core Courses

* MBA 501 should be taken early in the program, ideally as the first course.

** MBA 519 and MBA 599 carry credit-hour perquisites and should be taken toward the end of the program.

Course Waivers
If you have a strong undergraduate background or significant professional experiences in a field, you may request to have a core course waived by your advisor. A waiver is not an award of credit, but it permits you to substitute an approved higher-level course in place of the core requirement. Waivers are awarded to strengthen a student’s academic program.

Students interested in pursuing a course waiver may request an application for waiver from the MBA Office.

Concentrations
With concentrations in accounting, finance, marketing, and management, you can specialize in the field of your choice. A concentration is comprised of two elective courses in any of the specified areas plus a relevant MBA 599 project. No formal declaration of concentration is required.

Alternatively, you may choose to follow a general MBA curriculum and enroll in two electives that do not fall under a concentration area.

Students who are required to enroll in MBA 511 should note that this course satisfies one of the two required electives for a general MBA degree, however it does not count toward any particular concentration. If you wish to pursue a concentration, a total of two electives in the specified area in addition to MBA 511 are required, bringing the total number of credits to 39.

Concentration Courses
Please refer to course description for prerequisites.

* No more than one course marked with an asterisk may be counted toward the satisfaction of a concentration.

* No more than one course marked with an asterisk may be counted toward the satisfaction of a concentration.MBA 534 – Entrepreneurship*

* No more than one course marked with an asterisk may be counted toward the satisfaction of a concentration.

* No more than one course marked with an asterisk may be counted toward the satisfaction of a concentration.

Core Courses

MBA 501- Self -Assessment and Managerial Skills (3)
This course provides MBA students with the opportunity to assess their intrapersonal and interpersonal characteristics, personal and organizational values, managerial and leadership styles, and the level of competency in selected executive skills. This course helps students to refine skills important to doing well in their graduate studies and in their professional lives. Ideally, MBA 501 is one of the first courses taken in the program. Prerequisite: none.

MBA 503- Financial Reporting and Control (3)
Accounting is the primary channel for communicating the economics of any business. Managers must understand the concepts and language of accounting in order to use this critical tool effectively for communication, monitoring, and resource allocation. Financial and Managerial Accounting is not a comprehensive course in accounting. Rather, it provides a broad view of how accounting contributes to an organization and how managers can make the best use of accounting information, accounting records, and systems, and accountants as internal resources for the purpose of making effective financial decisions. This course is designed to help students to: use accounting based information to aid in managerial decision-making. Case study analysis combined with written and oral case study presentation will be used extensively. Prerequisites: undergraduate accounting I and accounting II, or MBAP 001 and MBAP 002.

MBA 504- Managerial Economics (3)
An investigation and analysis of the theoretical and analytical tools of economics, with emphasis upon their application to business decision problems. Topics include demand theory, production and cost theory, market structure, price determination, and profit strategies. Case studies of managerial situations will be examined. Prerequisite: undergraduate principles of microeconomics, or MBAP 003.

MBA 505- Strategic Marketing (3)
This course provides an examination into the content and appropriate strategies of the marketing process and its importance in today's dynamic organizations. The value and importance of effective marketing is evaluated with the methodology for developing an effective strategic marketing process. This course addresses the aggregate scope of marketing in the recognition and understanding of marketing theories and practices through the use of strategic market planning. These elements include the marketing mix, uncontrollable variables, market research, consumer behavior, branding, market segmentation and effective promotional practices. Prerequisite: none.

MBA 506- Quantitative and Statistical Methods for Managers (3)
This initial course in statistical methods provides the MBA student with the fundamental quantitative methods to solve decision problems faced by managers in business. The course develops two important quantitative skills: 1) identification of the appropriate methodology for solving the managerial problem; and 2) clearly and precisely specifying the interpretation of the analysis produced. As a result of applying the appropriate methodology and clearly reporting the interpretation of the analysis, the student can then recommend a sensible and understandable business decision.

The course includes the development of data analysis techniques, the study of probability and measures of uncertainty, and the application of modern statistical methods for decision-making. Throughout the course students will utilize the technology to gather, organize and summarize the data into meaningful information. Further, students will apply the software to draw inferences from the data so that appropriate decisions can be recommended. Topics include probability models, Bayesian analysis, discrete and continuous distributions, estimation, hypotheses testing, chi-square tests, and regression analysis. Case studies will be analyzed and the reporting of analysis and recommendations will be emphasized. Prerequisite: undergraduate statistics or MBAP 004.

MBA 509- Financial Analysis (3)
A study of financial management and the role of the financial manager within an organization. The course will begin with an introduction to basic financial management and progress to areas of study such as security valuation, risk and return, cost of capital, capital budgeting, equity and debt management, and asset management. Textbook material will be supplemented with case study analysis to integrate the concepts developed in class. Knowledge and use of financial spreadsheets and financial modeling are necessary to fulfill class requirements. Basic internet use and search skills will be required. Prerequisites: undergraduate business finance or MBAP 005, and computer competence.

MBA 516- Organization Theory and Management Practice (3)
An intensive study of the development of organization and management theory, the functions of management, and the systems approach to organization and management. Emphasis is placed on the external environment of the business organization, the total organization and its subsystems, leadership, management, decision making, leading and managing change, and corporate social responsibility and business ethics. Case studies supplement and amplify theoretical considerations. Prerequisite: none.

MBA 518- Management and Information Technology (3)
This course provides an overview of the essential role of information and its management in the modern organization. It is a survey course in the sense that it does not explore any issue in depth, but it instead provides an introduction to a variety of important issues. Understanding the crucial role of information requires an understanding of the nature of information systems (IS). While an information system need not be computer based, most modern IS applications that add value to an organization incorporate the use of technology. Hence, the discussion of IS will be framed within the context of current technology. The audience for the course is managers in an organization; the course is not designed for information technology (IT) workers. The primary focus of the course will be on how building and improving IS can create a competitive advantage for a firm, improve efficiency, and ultimately add value to the firm.

MBA 519 - Strategic Analysis and Integrated Decision Making (3)
This capstone course examines the design and execution of a firm’s competitive strategy. Students are organized into management teams to run the CapSim© simulation. Teams design their firm’s competitive strategy and execute that strategy through operating decisions in product development, production, research and development, pricing, marketing, human resource management, financial management, and quality initiatives. The simulation is internet- based; teams upload their decisions according to a fixed schedule, and decisions interact. Prerequisite: minimum of 24 graduate hours and all undergraduate prerequisites.

MBA 599- Research Project (3)
Development and critical analysis of a business problem. Students will be required to perform basic research at the primary and secondary levels, design a research topic, and present the findings in an acceptable written form. Students will also be required to make an oral presentation of findings and conclusions of their research work at the end of the course. Prerequisite: a minimum of 27 graduate credits. Be prepared with a clearly defined business problem to research at the first class meeting. This course spans two sessions; however, classes do not meet every week.

Elective And Concentration Courses

MBA 511 – Contemporary Business Law and the Legal Environment (3)
This course provides an introduction to the modern issues in business law. Topics covered include; contracts; the Uniform Commercial Code; property law; debtor-creditor relationships; bankruptcy; agency; business organizations; insurance; estates and trusts; federal securities laws; and government regulation of employment and environment. Topics related to the legal environment of business such as constitutional law, administrative law, and dispute resolution are also covered. Prerequisite: none. Must be taken as an elective if not previously taken as an undergraduate course.

MBA 520 – Financial Statement Evaluation and Analysis (3)
A study of techniques used in analyzing and interpreting the financial statements of industrial business enterprises. Students are provided an understanding of the difficulties in resolving various financial reporting issues and of the significance and applicability of accounting data to the total business environment. Prerequisites: MBA 503 and 509.

MBA 524 – Advanced Auditing (3)
A study of auditing concepts and methods, emphasizing those issues most frequently encountered by the firm and external auditors. Prerequisites: MBA 503 and previous auditing course. Typically co-listed as an undergraduate course and run on a semester-long schedule. Start and end dates may follow the undergraduate calendar.

MBA 526 – Advanced Studies in Taxation (3)
Advanced topics in the income taxation of business entities and individuals are examined. Additional topics such as estate and gift taxation, fiduciary taxation, tax-exempt entities and retirement plans are also included at a basic level. Ethics, research and tax planning will be integral throughout the course. Prerequisite: Previous course in taxation. Typically co-listed as an undergraduate course and run on a semester-long schedule. Start and end dates may follow the undergraduate calendar.

MBA 530 – Leading the Culturally Diverse Workforce (3)
The diversity of today’s workforce requires managers to create a multicultural climate in which all organization members are supported, valued, and allowed to reach their full potential. Topics covered in this class include understanding the benefits of diversity across race, gender, age, and international impact of diversity on today’s managers. Students will explore the behaviors that block organizational and individual effectiveness in a diverse workplace. Through case studies, readings, and other activities, students will explore effective strategies for problem solving in this area. Prerequisite: MBA 516.

MBA 533 – Personnel and Human Resource Management (3)
Human Resource Management (HRM) is a central function in every organization today. The objective of this course is to provide students with sufficient background knowledge of the various HRM functions to enable them to work successfully in an HRM position and to put into practice learned information pertaining to HRM. Prerequisite: MBA 516.

MBA 534 – Entrepreneurship (3)
A course in planning and development of new business ventures from the standpoint of the entrepreneur as the innovator. Topics covered include idea development, venture planning, market analysis, initial financing, startup, and related aspects of accounting, finance, and management. Acquisition of an existing business is also covered. Prerequisites: none.

MBA 535 – Organizational Structure, Design and Culture (3)
As modern society’s most dominant institution, organizations exert a tremendous influence on our lives. To provide information that will help current and aspiring managers, the foundations and implications of organizational theory based on major research findings is explained. Organizations function as goal-seeking systems. In this course we will examine the role of goals in organizations; examine how managers structure their organizations for effective performance; discuss the relationship between an organization and its environment; and examine transitions, dynamics and processes common in organizations as they are redesigned and or reengineered. Prerequisite: MBA 516.

MBA 536 – Business Ethics and Social Responsibility (3)
Business is part of a larger social system and must interact with other elements in that system: for example, government, advocacy groups, the media, etc. This course explores these non-market interactions and concentrates especially on questions of business ethics and corporate social responsibility. Prerequisite: none.

MBA 538 – Organizational Behavior (3)
Organizational behavior is the study of individuals, organizations, and the way people behave in organizations. If “all of the world is a stage,” it is a stage filled with organizations. Organizations are not physical realities, nor are they people with common objectives. Instead, organizations consist of patterned activities and goal-directed behaviors. Through the lenses of leadership theory and real life experience, we will focus on three distinctly different levels of analysis: the individual; the group; and the organization. Each level of analysis contributes unique insights to help us understand and diagnose what is happening in the world around us. Prerequisite: MBA 516.

MBA 542 – Financial Markets, Institutions, and Policy (3)
This course investigates the history, structure and functions of financial institutions (banks, savings and loans, credit unions, etc.) as well as central banking (The Federal Reserve System). It analyzes money, financial intermediaries, markets, and recent banking legislation. Prerequisites: MBA 503 and MBA 509.

MBA 545 – Cases in Financial Management (3)
This is a case-oriented class which applies the principles of finance and accounting to the financial management of the firm. Computer-based models will be applied. Prerequisites: MBA 503 and 509.

MBA 576 – Investment Management (3)
A critical examination and analysis of the types of investments, and their relative merits, security, prices, and yield, methods of investment analysis, portfolio management, and policies of institutional investors. Prerequisite: MBA 509.

MBA 577 – Marketing Management (3)
A study of marketing function and strategies, including demand analysis, product planning, pricing, distribution, promotion, and market forecasts from the viewpoint of the manager. Marketing research techniques and marketing policies are examined and case studies employed. Prerequisite: none.

MBA 581 – Marketing Research (3)
An analysis of techniques to approach the solution of the marketing problem. Emphasis is on research methods. Prerequisite: none.

MBA 582 – Advertising and Mass Communications (3)
The advertising process is examined, considering types, strategies, methods, and objectives. Effective use of public relations, publicity, and sales promotions are considered. Case studies are used. Prerequisite: none.

MBA 590 – Seminar in Leadership (3)
This seminar focuses on leadership from conceptual, relational, and behavioral perspectives in trying to understand what it is, and what factors contribute to doing it effectively. It also provides the student with an opportunity to explore various aspects of their own leadership philosophy and personal experiences in organizations. Prerequisite: none.

MBA 600 – Independent Study (3)
Topic varies. Requires permission from the Instructor and Director.

Mini-Courses

MBAP001-Accounting I & MBAP002 Accounting II Mini-Course (0)
A course designed as preparation for MBA 503 Financial and Managerial Accounting. This course presents an in-depth study of some of the basic financial and managerial accounting uses and techniques. The focus of this course will be on how to begin to utilize accounting data and information when making business decisions. (It is important to make the distinction between the user vs. the preparer approach.) Coursework will consist of studying the accounting cycle, income statement, statement of owner’s equity, balance sheet, the statement of cash flows, financial statement analysis, and ratio analysis.

MBAP003-Microeconomics Mini-Course (0)
A course designed as a preparation for MBA 504 Managerial Economics. This courses servers as an introduction to microeconomic theory. Topics include demand theory, production and cost theory, market structure, price determination, and profit strategies. Macroeconomic topics are also included.

MBAP004-Statistics Mini-Course (0)
A course designed as a preparation for MBA 506 Quantitative and Statistical Methods for Managers. This course serves as an introduction to modern statistical techniques and includes a survey of important probability distributions, the study of measures of location and dispersion, and the application of appropriate tests for decision-making.

Emphasis will be placed on developing sound approaches and procedures to solve statistical problems. In addition, producing correct interpretation of results and clear reporting of analysis are of primary importance. Understanding the concepts and procedures developed and applying and interpreting them correctly are the primary goals of the course.

Theoretical analysis will be kept to a minimum; however, understanding of techniques will be emphasized. It will be assumed that the student can perform basic algebraic calculations.

MBAP005-Finance Mini-Course (0)
A course designed as a preparation for MBA 509 Financial Analysis. This course will cover basic topics of an introductory nature to financial management including alternative forms of business organization, business ethics, financial statement analysis, financial markets, interest rate construction, time value of money, basic federal income taxes, common stock and investment banking, and long term debt. Basic case study analysis and group decision-making activities will be planned.