Course Descriptions
Business Administration
MBA 5001
Topics in Business: Mini MBA
3 credits
Topics in Business: Mini MBA provides instruction in essential topics typically covered in a full 36-credit MBA program. A series of eight modules will each present one business function including organizational structure, human resources, marketing, accounting, finance, and strategy. The presentation of this material is a broad overview of each of the topics including an overview of the business function and overview of the topic and key terminology. Through pre-session readings, a synchronous lecture, and post-session assessment, the student will gain knowledge of each function and the relationship between the eight topics.
This course is designed for the non-business professional or non-business graduate student seeking understanding of the basic concepts and terminology relevant to the eight topics covered within the course.
MBA 5850
Financial Accounting for MBAs
3 credits
MBA 5850 presents the principles of financial accounting with emphasis on the four statements of financial accounting: balance sheet, income statement, statement of cash flows, and statement of owner’s equity and retained earnings. With its focus on financial accounting statements, this course provides students with an understanding of accounting terminology, accounting concepts, transaction analysis, and the basic accounting model. A key learning objective in this course is a managerial perspective on the information provided in financial statements and the ability to analyze financial statements. MBA 5850 cannot be used as an MBA elective.
MBA 5900
Principles of Finance
3 credits
Principles of Finance provides an overview of the finance function in modern business. The key objective of this course is to provide incoming MBA students with knowledge of corporate finance terminology and understanding of the foundational concepts in finance. The course introduces and explores concepts of financial statements, markets and financing instruments. Students will begin to develop a managerial perspective on the information provided in financial statements and the ability to analyze financial statements. For students requiring it, completion of MBA5900 does not apply toward the MBA degree 36 credit hour requirement.MBA 6000
Organizational Behavior and Ethical Leadership
3 credits
This course introduces MBA students to the foundation principles of organizational theory, behavior, and leadership with an emphasis on ethical practices of organizational leadership. Organizational theory principles studied include structure and design, organizational culture, communication, individual and group dynamics, teamwork, and decision-making. Organizational theory and design are introduced to understand the implementation of policy within the organization. Leadership principles, practices, and styles with an emphasis on ethical leadership is a key concept of the course. MBA students will demonstrate fluency in these topics through a variety of research-based writing assignments and demonstrate competency with APA-style in these assignments.
MBA 6100
Managerial Accounting
3 credits
This course emphasizes the use of accounting data in the managerial decision-making process and in planning and controlling business enterprises. Topics include cost-volume-profit analysis, budgeting, variance analysis, capital budgeting, and responsibility accounting.
Prerequisite(s): 3-credit undergrad accounting equivalent to BAC 101 or equivalent or minimum test score, or MBA 5850
MBA 6150
Managerial Decision-Making
3 credits
The preparation, analysis, and evaluation of accurate managerial accounting information is essential to effective firm decision-making. MBA 6150 emphasizes the application of managerial accounting data in the managerial decision-making process to support firm strategy. Course topics include cost-volume-profit analysis, budgeting, and capital budgeting techniques, with special emphasis on project cash flows and net present value analysis. This course requires a working knowledge and utilization of spreadsheet software.Prerequisite(s): MBA5850 or BAC101 or Equivalent
MBA 6300
Quantitative Business Analysis
3 credits
This course studies the application of quantitative methods for business analysis and decision making. Topics will include probability and descriptive statistics, survey construction, project management tools, forecasting methods and statistical process control.
Prerequisite(s): 3-credits undergraduate algebra, calculus, or mathematics statistics OR MAT 312 or higher
MBA 6350
Survey of Data Analytics
3 credits
This course is an introduction to data analytics, which involves using statistical analysis and visualization techniques to describe, display, and explore data to develop useful insights and convert data to actionable information that enables learning and making better decisions. Topics that will be covered include: data-driven decision-making, Microsoft Excel basics, data visualization (graphical and tabular), descriptive statistics, pivot tables and charts, correlation analysis, and linear regression (simple, multiple, and hierarchical). This course emphasizes using the advanced analytic capabilities of Microsoft Excel.Prerequisite(s): 3-credits undergraduate algebra, calculus, or mathematics statistics OR MAT 110 or higher
MBA 6400
Economic and Financial Environment of Business
3 credits
Interrelationships between financial and other economic sectors are studied. Development of the macroeconomic framework and concepts relating to the determination of output, employment, and price level is reviewed.
Prerequisite(s): 3-credits undergraduate economics OR ECO 105
MBA 7200
Financial Management
3 credits
This course analyzes the synthesis of financial policy into a grand strategy that integrates organizational purpose and goals. The focus of the course is on current thinking regarding valuation of the firm, investment decision processes, financing and dividend policies, asset management, and financial strategies and portfolio theory.
Prerequisite(s): 3-credits undergraduate finance equivalent to FIN 305 OR MBA 5900 OR MHR 7830
MBA 7250
Financial Analysis
3 credits
MBA 7250 provides a comprehensive review of the corporate finance function. Course focus is on detailed financial statement and ratio analysis as a tool to determine overall firm financial health and competitive position. Other topics include interest rate risk, discounted cash flow, stock (equity) valuation, and bond (debt) valuation. Risk vs. return, financial leverage and firm capital structure are also presented.Prerequisite(s): MBA5900 or FIN305 or Equivalent; ECO 105 or Equivalent
MBA 7292
Investments
3 credits
This course offers an in-depth study of the various types of investment securities such as common stocks, bonds, warrants, options, and investments company shares. Emphasis is placed on the risk-return characteristics of these securities and their use in various investment strategies.
Prerequisite(s): MBA 7200 OR MBA 7250
MBA 7293
Portfolio Theory
3 credits
This course is an introduction to modern capital market theory and portfolio theory, analysis and selection of portfolios, and the management of portfolios and their performance. Alternative portfolio selection strategies (such as hedge funds) are also explored, as are derivatives and other investment alternatives.
Prerequisite(s): MBA 7292
MBA 7294
Advanced Financial Analysis
3 credits
This course examines major policy-making areas in corporate finance and the impact of alternative policies on the value of the firm. Emphasis is placed on strengthening financial decision-making skills. Advanced topics include capital investment policy, financing and capital structure policies, dividend policy, and corporate control.
Prerequisite(s): MBA 7200 OR MBA 7250
MBA 7295
Corporate Taxation
3 credits
An analytical study of the Federal Income Tax Statutes and regulations relating to the taxation of individuals, partnerships, and corporations is provided in this course. Topics of discussion include general concepts related to gross income, business and non-business deductions, tax accounting methods, and taxable periods and gains and losses on dispositions of property.
Prerequisite(s): MBA 7200 OR MBA 7250
MBA 7296
International Finance
3 credits
This course provides background on the international environment and focuses on managerial aspects from a corporate perspective. It introduces students to international markets and describes the relationship between exchange rates and economic variables. It then focuses on the measurement and management of foreign exchange rate risk, concentrates on the corporate management of short-term and long-term assets and liabilities, and finally describes international financial management from a banker’s perspective. Cases are used to supplement problems.
Prerequisite(s): MBA 7200 OR MBA 7250
MBA 7298
Seminar in FinTech
3 credits
Seminar in FinTech explores the principles of financial technology, commonly known as FinTech. FinTech is the application of technology interfaces and processes as applied to the financial services industry. FinTech increasingly acts as a disruptive force within the delivery of traditional financial services to both consumers and business entities. This course is an introduction to FinTech concepts: its history and current state, use of technology applications, and the growing role in the delivery of financial services. Students explore FinTech's impact and disruption of traditional consumer and commercial local and global finance.
Prerequisite(s): MBA7250
MBA 7301
Business Support Systems
3 credits
This course investigates the increasing use of the techniques of business support systems and work flow tools for the optimum performance of manufacturing and service organizations. Students will use analytical, quantitative, and qualitative techniques and workflow tools for resource allocations, facilities design and location, process design, planning, scheduling, and quality control. An emphasis will be placed on current technologies and their applications in various industries.
Prerequisite(s): MBA 6300 or MBA 6350
MBA 7302
Project Management
3 credits
This course examines the use of project management to accomplish organizational goals and the unique styles of management needed to administer them. Case studies will be used to give the student a functional knowledge of project management. Topics in this course will include the role of the project manager, organizational and planning needs, cost estimation and budgeting, scheduling, resource allocation, auditing and controlling and the completion of projects.
MBA 7305
Supply Chain Management
3 credits
This course focuses on supply chain concepts, supply chain processes and managing those processes to build competitive advantage in a global marketplace. Topics covered include supply chain processes from supplier to fulfillment, supply chain performance measurement, implementation and link to business strategy. Though mostly process-focused, the course covers some quantitative concepts such as demand planning, inventory management and forecasting techniques. It also covers the role of information technology and e-business in state-of-the-art supply chain management.Prerequisite(s): (MBA 6100 OR MBA 6150) and (MBA 7200 OR MBA 7250)
MBA 7320
Business Process Management
3 credits
Business Process Management (BPM) is the integration of all critical business functions so they are aligned with the firm’s tactical and strategic plan. This course focuses on two core concepts: the discipline of BPM as a holistic management tool, and the role that technology plays in facilitating a BPM approach. BPM is a lifecycle approach that includes analysis, design, implementation, automation, and evaluation of business processes.MBA 7592
Global Enterprise Development
3 credits
This course will include the development of a global business by using partnerships with international companies and educational institutions. Students will participate in global communities and cross-cultural virtual teams to collaborate and develop an international business.
Prerequisite(s): (MBA 6100 OR MBA 6150) AND (MBA 7200 OR MBA 7250)
MBA 7600
Global Marketing Management
3 credits
This course develops an understanding of the application of marketing and microeconomic principles and the management of the marketing functions in the international arena. This course will emphasize the need for effective marketing plans developed from a thorough analysis of the global marketplace with particular attention to cultural differences, ethical challenges, geopolitical dynamics, distribution challenges and product adaptation.
MBA 7603
Market Research and Consumer Behavior
3 credits
This course examines the objectives and techniques of marketing research and the analysis of consumer behavior as tools for the effective marketing manager. Subjects addressed will include the formulation of research objectives, research design, data collection, qualitative and ethnographic studies, survey design and the analysis and interpretation of the data.
Prerequisite(s): MBA 7600
MBA 7604
New Business Ventures
3 credits
This course examines the challenges and requirements placed on an entrepreneur in the design and implementation of a new business venture. Subjects addressed in this course include idea generation, supporting data and information gathering, the formulation of a strategic business plan, searching for and procuring venture capital and other financing, implementation of the venture and the considerations of public offering.
Prerequisite(s): MBA 7600
MBA 7606
Business to Business and Business to Government Marketing
3 credits
The focus of this course is to explore the techniques of marketing products and services to business and industry. Subjects will include sales practices and methodologies that are unique to business markets, procurement practices and ethical guidelines. Attention will also be given to requirements needed in marketing to the government.
Prerequisite(s): MBA 7600
MBA 7608
Integrated Marketing Communications
3 credits
The role of advertising and other promotional mix elements in the integrated marketing communications program (IMC) of an organization is the focus of this course. The development of an integrated marketing communications programs requires an understanding of the overall marketing process and how companies organize for advertising and other promotional functions. Related aspects such as customer behavior, communications theory, and how to set goals, objectives and budgets related to IMC plans are examined. Attention will be given to the various IMC tools used in contemporary marketing including advertising, direct marketing, internet and interactive marketing, sales promotion, publicity and public relations, and personal selling. There will be strong emphasis on the art of communicating effectively through various marketing media.
Prerequisite(s): MBA 7600
MBA 7610
Salesmanship and Sales Force Management
3 credits
This course studies the design, management and motivation of an organization’s personal selling function. The subjects studied in this course include the role of sales professionals as financial contributors, change agents and relationship builders. Included in this course will be discussions on sales force structure, motivation, and augmentation of the marketing communications program, recruitment, selection and training of sales persons.Prerequisite(s): MBA 7600
MBA 7615
Marketing Analytics
3 credits
Marketing analytics is an essential and increasingly important business function in today's digital and data-centered economies. Marketing data developed through sampling, modeling, and simulation and data processes must be analyzed and communicated clearly in order to recommend specific paths of action and support tactical decision-making and strategic planning within an organization. Students will gain knowledge of analytics techniques using Microsoft Excel that support the marketing function within the business environment. This course also presents foundation concepts of data visualization as a skill and discipline in and of itself, and this course uses Excel as a tool. Students registering for MBA 7615 are expected to have a working proficiency with Microsoft Excel.Prerequisite(s): MBA 7600
MBA 7710
Seminar in Data Analysis
3 credits
This course is designed as a hands-on course in Business Analytics, an area of business administration that considers the extensive use of data, methods, and fact-based management to support and improve decision making. This course covers the data management infrastructure that supports data analysis, analytic methods, and visualization as a tool to communicate analytic results. Practical examples and hands-on exercises present an opportunity to apply concepts and techniques used in data analytics. Data visualization tools are used as a means to explore and analyze data and as a means to effectively communicate analytic results. This course discusses the benefits of employing analytics and a structured approach to problem-solving in management situations.Prerequisite(s): MBA 6300
MBA 7715
Predictive Analytics
3 credits
This course explores how to build statistical models and implement regression analysis in real-world problems from business, economics, and marketing research and consumer behavior. Topics that will be covered include multiple regression models (including first-order, second-order and interaction models with quantitative and qualitative variables), regression pitfalls, and residual analysis. Students will acquire skills not only in the mechanics of regression analysis (often by means of a statistical software package) but also in selecting appropriate models, interpreting regression results, and diagnosing regression problems. This course will emphasize using Excel for building and implementing linear regression analysis models.Prerequisite(s): MBA 6300
MBA 7720
Forecasting for Business Analytics
3 credits
This course explores how to choose an appropriate time series forecasting method, fit the model, evaluate its performance, and use it for forecasting. Topics that will be covered include: regression models, smoothing methods including Moving Average (MA) and Exponential Smoothing, and Autoregressive (AR) models, model enhancements such as second-layer models and ensembles, and various issues encountered in practice. This course will emphasize using Excel for building and implementing forecasting models.Prerequisite(s): MBA 6300
MBA 7725
Optimization for Business Analytics
3 credits
This course explores how to develop, implement and use optimization techniques for determining optimal data-driven solutions for a variety of business problems. Topics that will be covered include: introduction to optimization; linear programming; integer linear programming; sensitivity analysis; linear programming models for marketing, manufacturing, ingredient blending, employee scheduling, financial investments, transportation, and resource assignment applications; and networking modeling for shortest path, maximal flow, and minimal spanning tree applications. This course will emphasize using Excel for building and implementing linear programming optimization models.Prerequisite(s): MBA 6300
MBA 7730
Simulation for Business Analytics
3 credits
This course explores how to develop, implement and use simulation methods for business decision-making. Students will build simulation models to answer practical questions that are motivated by operational business decisions, such as determining optimal queuing systems, inventory policies, equipment reliability, and project management for an organization. This course will emphasize using Microsoft Excel, as well as Excel add-in as modeling tools.Prerequisite(s): MBA 6300
MBA 7800
Topics in Finance—Derivatives
3 credits
The primary objective of this course is the exploration of contemporary topics in accounting, finance, or related fields in both theory and practice. Research projects, class discussions, and presentations explore current areas of concern using an interdisciplinary framework.
Prerequisite(s): Completion of at least four MBA Finance concentration courses listed above.
MBA 7805
Strategic Planning for Sustainability
3 credits
Strategic Planning for Sustainability provides students an insight into how organizational leadership develops vision, mission, objectives, goals, and communication plans to create a business culture embracing sustainability. Students are provided an understanding of strategic planning techniques integrating sustainability which can improve the organization's operational and financial performance, mitigate risks, contribute to higher quality, and competitive advantage. Students will be introduced to concepts relating to costing, operational and capital improvement decision-making, risk assessment, cost/benefit and profitability analysis, supply chain, other external value relationships, avoidance of liability, and other legal implications, to show the overall value of a business strategic plan that includes sustainability.
MBA 7810
Principles of Business Sustainability
3 credits
Principles of Business Sustainability provides students with an understanding of the need and pressures for businesses to incorporate concepts of sustainability, resource management, and responsibility into effective business decision making at every level of the organization. Students taking this course will be introduced to the terms, definitions, and basic business strategies and practices that businesses incorporating sustainable businesses embrace. Principles of Business Sustainability examines the various methods that businesses use to create competitive advantage while maintaining a culture of sustainable practices. A general overview of evolving industry standards and regulations for sustainability in business will be reviewed as well as ethical considerations.
MBA 7815
Sustainability and Business
3 credits
Sustainability and Business introduces students to two key areas for U.S.-based private businesses with respect to sustainability. First are the legal statutes and requirements at the Federal government level and compliance needs and practices related to said requirements. Second are the business operational aspects of procurement and disposal, supply chain, and business operations that align with effective and efficient sustainability practices. The alignment of efficient and effective business sustainability operational practices aid in helping to create and leverage firm competitive advantage in the global marketplace.MBA 8795
MBA Internship
3 credits
MBA students may apply for an approved internship to meet one of the two open electives in their program. An MBA internship offers students the opportunity to gain relevant work experience in business. Through this experience, the student gains a practical understanding of work in the industry, experience on the job, enhancement of skills learned in the classroom, and contacts with professionals in the business world. Upon selection for an approved internship, MBA students must complete a minimum of 150 hours of compensated or uncompensated work within a 14-week semester. MBA students must have completed a minimum 18 credits in the MBA core and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.3. This course is graded satisfactory/unsatisfactory.
Prerequisite(s): Program Chair Approval
MBA 8799
Thesis
3 credits
Students develop and prepare an independent research project.
Prerequisite(s): Completion of all core requirements and prior approval of the MBA coordinator. Students are assigned a supervisor from the MBA faculty.
MBA 8800
Business Strategy
3 credits
This is a capstone course intended to integrate previous work in finance, accounting, marketing, economics, and management at the corporate policy and strategic decision-making level. Problems addressed relate the organization and its objectives to the environment, with the subsequent development of policy, strategy, and implementation processes. Emphasis is placed on comprehensive simulation.
Prerequisite(s): Completion of all MBA core requirements (MBA 6000, (MBA 6100 or MBA 6150 or MAC 7200), (MBA 6300 or MBA 6350), (MBA 7250 or (MBA 6400 and 7200)), and MBA 7600).