Master of Business Administration (MBA) Degree Curriculum

This course will develop marketing strategy and execution of diverse communication tactics critical to all enterprises. Students will examine competitive value propositions for business growth across various markets. Course work will analyze business scenarios and determine strategic objectives, target markets and messages, as well as demonstrate how to use and apply multiple marketing tactics.

This course examines the various research methodologies used in organizational settings. It provides an overview of quantitative and qualitative methodologies including research design, data collection and analysis, interviewing, case studies, and action science. The philosophy, ethics, and politics of management research are introduced. Students will critique published research, write a literature review, and design research studies.

The course will apply economic theory to develop a framework to analyze and predict trade, exchange rate, environmental, health, labor and other policies. Strategies will encompass the interaction of American and global economic institutions and policy making entities such as the United States Trade Representative, Congress, Federal Reserve, WTO, and the European Union. Topics will include tariffs and comparative advantage.

This course will review and analyze popular models of ethical decision making. Readings, case studies, and special presenters will provide opportunities to investigate current ethical issues facing leaders and managers in business and organizational settings as well as critically apply various ethical theories and decision-making frameworks. Literature relative to Christian vocation, applied ethics, and value-centered leadership will be explored. Student papers and presentations will demonstrate the integration of a personal and vocational ethic.

This course looks at human resources management from an operating manager’s perspective and focuses on the key role strategic human resource management plays in the development and execution of organizational strategy. Emphasis will be placed on the cultural, behavioral, and the legal issues faced by companies as they attempt to compete in an increasingly expanding global economy. Students will work collaboratively to analyze and compare the complexities and challenges of doing business abroad as well as in the United States and discuss approaches, plans, and programs to address those issues strategically.

This course will examine the framework and systems of current accounting and finance principles including preparation of financial statements, accounting cycles and balance sheet classifications. Students will apply these principles along with ethical responsibility and critical thinking skills to management practices of business decision making and strategic planning.

This course integrates the treatment of law and management. It helps managers and leaders spot legal issues before they become legal problems and emphasizes developing the legal astuteness to craft solutions that attain core organizational objectives without incurring undue legal risk. Traditional legal concepts are discussed as well as current topics in developing areas of the law. An emphasis on ethical concerns stimulates understanding of how managers must incorporate considerations of ethics and social responsibility into their managerial actions.

This course will examine value-chain functions such as product-process design, quality management, supply chain management and workforce management in order to understand the resource-based view of strategic advantage for the organization. Students will examine strategic management of operations utilizing to support the value-chain functions of operations management.

This course will focus on how managers think clearly and make effective decisions. Students will examine and apply several models of decision-making from intuition to predictive analytics. In support of effective execution, students will explore innovative, critical, emotional and futuristic thinking. Students will develop their own tools to become effective decision-makers.

This course introduces students to the principal practices and the theorists of contemporary strategic thinking. Students will understand how leaders have strategically created and affected organizational outcomes. After examining the elements of a strategic planning process, students apply those principles and focus on strategic analysis of their industry and the strategic practices of the organizations in that industry.

This course targets auditing principles and practices, with a focus on risk assessment techniques. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the auditing process,  as well as the role of risk assessment in ensuring the integrity and reliability of financial statements. Students will learn about the objectives of auditing, the roles and responsibilities of auditors, and the various types of audits. They will also learn to uphold professional standards of integrity and ethics in accounting and auditing practice.  

This course offers a thorough study of financial accounting and reporting requirements, focusing on the preparation, analysis, and interpretation of financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Students will analyze financial statements in order to forecast future financial performance and evaluate the financial health and sustainability of their organizations. Students will be prepared to effectively communicate financial information to stakeholders, and make informed decisions based on financial analysis and reporting.  

This course focuses on the regulatory frameworks governing financial reporting and the taxation of individuals, corporations, and other entities. Students will learn about the fundamentals of tax planning, compliance, and reporting. The course also provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate complex accounting practices, ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, and optimize tax outcomes for organizations.  

This course offers an in-depth analysis of internal control systems and operational processes that organizations employ to safeguard assets, ensure compliance with regulations, and achieve operational efficiency. Students will learn how to mitigate risks related to financial statement fraud, and protect the integrity of financial information. They will also explore emerging trends and technologies in enterprise controls, such as automation, data analytics, and continuous monitoring. 

Explore the advanced realms of machine learning and LLM’s in this graduate-level course. Delve into the intricacies of the training and development of machine learning and large language models, while gaining a comprehensive understanding of the underlying algorithms, optimization techniques, and cutting-edge methodologies. Through hands-on projects and theoretical exploration, you’ll sharpen your skills in effectively training models, preparing you for the dynamic landscape of machine learning and large language model applications.

Embark on a profound journey into the world of artificial intelligence with our graduate-level course on deep learning and neural networks. This in-depth exploration will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to unravel the complexities of neural architectures, optimization strategies, and advanced deep-learning techniques. Engage in hands-on projects and theoretical analyses to master the art of designing, implementing, and fine-tuning neural networks. Elevate your understanding of cutting-edge applications and be at the forefront of innovation in the ever-evolving field of deep learning.

This course offers an in-depth exploration of reinforcement learning, a subfield of artificial intelligence that focuses on how agents learn to make decisions through interaction with an environment. Participants will gain a deep understanding of theoretical concepts, algorithmic approaches, and practical applications of reinforcement learning in various domains. Reinforcement learning is a subfield of machine learning that deals with agents learning to make sequential decisions. This course covers algorithms like Q-learning, policy gradients, and deep reinforcement learning, Advancing with applications in robotics, gaming, and autonomous systems.

This course is designed for students seeking an in-depth exploration of the latest advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) applied to computer vision. Building on foundational computer vision concepts, this course delves into state-of-the-art AI techniques, deep learning architectures, and advanced methodologies used in solving complex vision tasks. Through a combination of theoretical understanding, hands-on projects, and cutting-edge research, students will gain the expertise needed to push the boundaries of AI in the realm of computer vision.

This course provides an in-depth exploration of the fundamental principles and practices in the field of data engineering focused on the building of tools, transformation, and accessibility of data. This course is designed for students with a basic understanding of data requirements and flows driving towards practitioners to develop the skills necessary to design, build, and maintain data pipelines for handling large-scale data processing and storage.

This course offers an in-depth exploration of two interrelated fields: big data and data mining. This course is designed for students and professionals to provide the patterns, practices, and procedures aligned with a solid foundation in data analysis and database concepts, who seek to understand the challenges and opportunities presented by big data and learn how to leverage data mining techniques to extract valuable insights from vast datasets.

This course provides a comprehensive study of techniques and methodologies used to predict future outcomes and trends based on historical data. This course is designed for students and professionals with a strong foundation in data analysis and statistics who want to advance their skills in predictive modeling and apply data-driven insights to make informed decisions.

This course is designed to equip students with the essential skills to conduct empirical research and effectively communicate findings through data visualization. This course is suitable for students and professionals seeking to enhance their abilities in data analysis, research methodologies, and visual representation of data-driven insights.

This advanced graduate-level course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of security operations and risk management principles within the context of information security. Participants will explore the key components of managing security operations, responding to incidents, and implementing risk management strategies to safeguard organizational assets. The course integrates theoretical concepts with practical applications to prepare students for roles requiring expertise in security operations and risk mitigation.

This advanced graduate-level course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles, methodologies, and best practices associated with security architecture and engineering. Participants will explore the design, implementation, and management of secure systems, emphasizing the integration of security measures into the fabric of organizational structures. The course combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, ensuring that students acquire the skills required for roles involving the development and maintenance of robust security architectures.

This graduate-level course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles, technologies, and best practices associated with communication and network security. Participants will delve into the core concepts of securing data transmission, network infrastructure, and communication protocols. The course integrates theoretical foundations with practical applications to ensure students acquire the skills needed for roles involving the design and management of secure communication and network environments.

This advanced graduate-level course provides a comprehensive exploration of Identity and Access Management (IAM) principles, methodologies, and best practices. Participants will delve into the critical aspects of managing user identities, enforcing access controls, and implementing secure authentication mechanisms. The course is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to design, implement, and manage effective IAM solutions in complex organizational environments.

This course evaluates Search Engine Optimization (SEO), marketing, and website utilization strategies and techniques. Students will develop an understanding of how search engines function and how to leverage SEO and marketing tactics to enhance online visibility, drive traffic, and maximize the effectiveness of websites as marketing assets. The course also addresses designing and optimizing websites for usability, accessibility, and mobile-friendliness, focusing on enhancing conversion rates and user engagement. In addition to gaining technical skills, students will develop analytical and strategic thinking abilities by learning to track website performance metrics, such as organic traffic, keyword rankings, conversion rates, and bounce rates, using tools and software platforms.  

This course utilizes data-driven insights to optimize digital platforms and enhance user engagement. Students will examine the principles of audience analytics and UX design. Applications will include using demographic, psychographic, and behavioral data to identify distinct audience segments and tailor digital experiences, as well as exploring UX design principles and their impact on usability and satisfaction. Students will be equipped to create engaging digital experiences and drive measurable business outcomes. 

This course explores how businesses leverage digital platforms to build awareness, engage audiences, and drive conversions. In addition to providing an overview of social media platforms and their role in the modern marketing ecosystem, this course will emphasize the unique characteristics of each platform for tailoring marketing strategies to target specific audiences effectively. Students will learn how to develop compelling content through multimedia formats and maximize organic reach. The course also covers key components of an effective online strategy, including email marketing, search engine marketing (SEM), and influencers.

This course melds the art and science of storytelling as a strategic tool for marketing. Students will explore how effective storytelling can shape brand identity, engage audiences, and create meaningful connections in the marketplace. Students will examine strategies for maintaining brand integrity and ensuring brand narratives align with organizational mission, values, and promises.  

This course offers a comprehensive overview of the key concepts, strategies, and tools used in wealth management.  Students will learn to set goals, assess risk tolerance, explore asset allocation, and construct portfolios. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the trade-offs between risk and return, as well as the importance of diversification in building resilient investments. Students will be prepared for roles in wealth management and financial advisory firms, banks, trust companies, and other financial institutions serving high-net-worth clients. 

This course focuses on the theories, tools, and techniques used in corporate financial management. Students will learn about the role of financial markets and institutions, the principles of capital budgeting, and the importance of financial statement analysis in corporate decision-making. Through an exploration of these concepts, students will be able to make informed financial decisions, optimize corporate financial strategies, and create sustainable value for shareholders. 

This course offers an advanced exploration of topics in investment analysis, including strategic and tactical asset allocation, performance evaluation, and behavioral finance. Students will analyze financial data, evaluate investment alternatives, and develop strategies to achieve specific financial objectives. The course also equips students to construct diversified investment portfolios, and make informed investment decisions in diverse market conditions.  

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of the intersection between finance and technology, including the innovations, disruptions, and opportunities brought about by advancements in digital finance. Students will learn how technology is being leveraged to create new financial products and services, streamline operations, and enhance the customer experience. In addition, students will examine regulatory frameworks governing Fintech companies, as well as ethical considerations related to data privacy, cybersecurity, and financial inclusion.  

This course examines healthcare policy, focusing on reform initiatives and equity considerations within healthcare systems. Students will examine reform initiatives, ranging from the implementation of universal health coverage models to efforts aimed at improving healthcare delivery and outcomes through payment and delivery systems. Through policy analysis and application, students will assess strategies for promoting health equity, including community-based approaches to healthcare delivery and mitigating access barriers. This course will equip students with the knowledge and analytical tools to critically evaluate healthcare policy proposals, advocate for equitable reforms, and advance innovative health systems.

In order to compete in this new economy, health care entities, particularly hospitals, need to employ quality practices. This course will examine current theory and practices for health care institutions: Six sigma, Lean and other processes and procedures. Students will understand how the quality system interweaves with customer service and happiness.

This course explores the evolving landscape of healthcare administration, focusing on emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in the field. Students will examine the intersection of healthcare policy, technology, economics, and organizational management, gaining insights into the dynamic forces shaping healthcare service delivery and administration. Topics will include technological advancements.

A call has come from the highest reaches of government for the computerization of all medical records. Information systems and the interlocking of these systems will be a major concern for health care providers in the years to come. Students will learn how to collect, massage, manipulate data in order to make it useful. There is plenty of useless data and information available; the real professional can mine that data and information into golden nuggets of knowledge.

This course explores employee performance methods, pay and reward systems, employee benefits programs, and total compensation systems. The focal point of the course is on designing pay structures that support organization values and strategic objectives. Topics include the strategic role total compensation plays in organizations, the dynamics of alternative pay systems, sales compensation, executive compensation systems, and employee benefits.

This course will explore the full spectrum of the talent acquisition process with a focus on making an effective business case for implementing talent acquisition strategies. The course also will cover testing methods, applicant assessment, and employment engagement methods and the laws and regulations impacting staffing in organizations.

This course examines the role of the Human Resources leader in the development of vision, mission, values, and coherent strategic plans. Students will diagnose their strategic abilities and develop a plan for increasing their personal and team strategic capabilities. Students also will explore the importance of developing a global talent management and metric driven mindset.

This course provides an in-depth exploration of HRIS and technology management in the context of modern organizations. Students will evaluate the role of HRIS in automating typical HR processes, such as recruitment, onboarding, performance management, training, and compensation. The course also addresses emerging trends and technologies shaping the future of HRIS, such as advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and predictive analytics and their potential applications in HR functions. Students will have the knowledge and skills to effectively evaluate, implement, and manage HRIS solutions, leverage technology to drive strategic HR initiatives and contribute to organizational success in a digital and data-driven world. 

Address the basic types and elements of crises, and the importance of providing effective leadership and management in those conflict laden times. Intersections with other fields will also be addressed, including public relations, conflict management, and risk management. Analyze the role strategic communication, media relations, power, and organizational culture play during a crisis. Develop tools for dealing with the media in less-than-optimal situations, learn how to develop plans for different critical audiences (both internal and external), analyze effective persuasive methods, and discover ways to utilize effective public relations strategies for communicating the organizational message during a crisis.

This course provides an overview of leadership, management, influence, social power dynamics, and change theories and practices, emphasizing application to the challenges and opportunities facing for-profit corporations, nonprofits, and government agencies. Introduces the philosophies and methodological approaches underlying the Master of Arts in Leadership and Management as well as the writing and online research skills students will use in this program.

This course covers the practical aspects of completing tasks while working with, leading, and influencing teams in a project environment for high quality results. Students will learn how to effectively manage projects using software tools that focus on the various related leadership issues, such as monitoring needs compared with current action, team dynamics, planning, execution, problem-solving, closure, and assessment. Discussion may include appropriate quality measures including Reengineering, Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, Office Kaizen, and Process Improvement.

This course explores how leaders manage the soft, relationship skills of organizational life to leverage their experience and practical research as they successfully influence innovative, disciplined, and well-led organizations. Topics explore strategies to a) assess an organization’s culture and climate; b) develop a continuous flow talent management mindset incorporating Training & Development methods throughout the organization; c) motivate and positively influence team member effectiveness and obtain applicable concepts and tools for acquiring, developing, improving, influencing, and (re)allocating talent; d) explore the concepts and theories related to change management and improvement; and e) develop skills to influence, plan, and implement changes for improving organizational life in both corporate and nonprofit settings.

This course provides an exploration of Agile project management approaches to enhance project delivery, adaptability, and stakeholder engagement.  Students will examine concepts such as customer collaboration, iterative development, and response to change, with an in-depth exploration of Agile frameworks and techniques. This course will prepare students to lead Agile projects, drive organizational agility, and deliver value to the business. 

This course examines project management scheduling and planning methodologies, tools, and techniques. Following a review of the principles of project management, students will learn how to effectively define project deliverables, tasks, and milestones, and organize activities into logical sequences to create a comprehensive project schedule.  Students will also learn how to utilize project management software platforms to manage schedules, track progress, and communicate with business stakeholders. 

This course provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to mitigate risks and manage project costs.  Students will learn how to identify and classify project risks, assess their potential impact, and develop response strategies to minimize threats and capitalize on opportunities. The course also addresses cost management techniques  to create budgets, and monitor and control project expenditures throughout the project lifecycle. Students will learn how to develop risk and cost management plans that align with project objectives and stakeholder expectations. 

This course provides students with an understanding of data visualization tools and technology, and their application in project management. Students will learn how data visualization can be used to analyze project data, communicate insights, and make informed decisions throughout the project lifecycle. They will explore strategies for organizing and structuring data to support effective visualization and analysis, to ultimately improve project outcomes and stakeholder satisfaction.