Semester I
Adult Development & Life Assessment
This module introduces adult learners to adult development theory and links these concepts to life through a process of individual reflection. Both classical and contemporary adult development theories are examined. These theories then provide the paradigm for self-analysis and life assessment.
Group & Organizational Behavior
This module is a study of group behavior and how group functioning affects organizational effectiveness. Emphasis is placed on decision-making and conflict resolution. Adult learners develop strategies for efficient and productive group management and determine which tasks are handled by groups or by individuals.
Business Communication
This module is an intensive writing workshop with occasional lectures by the facilitator. Students are expected to complete a variety of writing exercises and assignments, both in class and as homework, by compiling a portfolio of work to be submitted at the completion of the module. The aim is for students to write fluent, logical, and grammatically correct Standard English.
Research Project I
The Research Project is a major research effort designed to enhance knowledge in an area related to one’s professional work. Guidelines for beginning the project are reviewed.
Visual Communication and Computers
This module explores the principles and practices behind the clear and efficient transmission of visual information and data. It also provides the adult learner with programming tools that will allow them to create effective visual presentations.
A Systems Approach to Organizational Change
Adult learners examine the formal and informal functions of organizations and analyze an agency or organization based on a systems model. Students will also analyze and solve organizational problems using a step-by-step method. This analysis will be applied to adult learners’ work related Research projects.
Personal Values & Organizational Ethics
This module begins by assisting students in discovering and articulating who they are and what they believe by reviewing several religious traditions, philosophical thinkers and scientific theorists. In addition, the module adds the theory of business ethics, social responsibility, and an ethical decision-making framework. Within the context of domestic and international case studies, students analyze complex issues, apply principles, and view alternative approaches and perspectives.
Semester II
Methods of Research and Statistical Analysis
This module is an introduction to research and its tools for the adult learner as both a consumer and producer of statistics and research. Specific emphasis is placed upon helping students to complete the Research Project and understand managerial decision-making.
Organizational Communication
This course investigates the role of communication in creating a productive organizational environment. It aids adult learners in developing and strengthening their communication skills focusing on interpersonal, group and presentation skills.
Microeconomics
This module focuses upon the principles of economics as they need to be understood and used by managers and supervisors in all fields. In this era of ‘downsizing’ or ‘rightsizing’ brought on by international competition and globalization of every part of our American way of life, it is crucial that managers at every level understand and use the principles of economics to aid in making sound decisions.
Organizational Management
Adult learners examine management control functions, strategic planning, and organizational and motivational theory and its application to individual and group functioning in work and home situations. Leadership styles related to particular circumstances are analyzed. Negotiation concepts and skills are covered through readings and class practice, with an analysis of the effect of productivity. Total Quality Management (TQM) is studied and contrasted with Management by Objectives (MBO).
Managerial Marketing
Through assigned readings, case studies, Web-site connections, class discussion, writing assignments, and the team project, adult learners will be exposed to basic marketing theory and terminology. They will be given the opportunity to apply these principles and concepts to real world, domestic and international situations. This exploration provides adult learners with an appreciation of the role of marketing in organizational strategic planning; an awareness of how customer behavior and decision data are collected and analyzed in the marketing planning process; and the confidence to participate with other organizational members to “connect with customers” in a variety of effective and meaningful ways.
Semester III
Research Project II
Students are introduced to chapter content requirements and proper thesis format. Individualized sessions are scheduled to review students outlinesand to insure that thesis guidelines are being met.
Business Planning
This module introduces students to various management planning models and techniques and applies these to business cases. It stresses the concepts of business planning and strategic management.
Human Resource Management
This module is an exploration of the values and perceptions of selected groups affecting social and economic life through an analysis of policies and procedures relating to recruitment, selection, training, development, and compensation of employees.
Legal Aspects
This module provides a general overview of the Business Law system including the Constitution, laws, regulations, case studies, common law, treaties and the interplay between the Federal and state systems. Particular emphasis is placed upon contracts, agency, torts, professional liability, products liability, intellectual property, cyberlaw, business litigation, partnerships and corporations.
Managerial Finance & Accounting
The Accounting portion of this course explores external, financial accounting topics: balance sheet accounts and related revenue and expense accounts. The financial part of this course covers the organization-wide use of financial planning within a firm. Other topics include financial tools available for planning and analysis, and their use in managing cash flows and financial resources, and evaluating future investment opportunities. In addition, three primary topics will be developed: the importance of short-term finance for current operations, the use of capital budgeting tools for investment analysis, and the foundation of long-term finance for defining the organization’s cost of capital and optimal capital structure.
Environmental Management
This course will explore the significant environmental issues facing the nation and the world today and the search for solutions. The adult learner will investigate issues in Global Climate Change, Energy, Human Population, Air Pollution, and Sustainability & Protection of the Environment.
Ethical issues will be discussed throughout the course as well as selected environmental science foundations to support intelligent discussion of the issues.. Learning activities includes viewing videos, “taking sides” discussions on various environmental issues, and performing ‘labs. A course paper will be required.
Leadership & Literature
Through intense discussion each work of literature will be examined; particular attention will be given to issues which resonate with the modern-day business world and the leadership it demands. Students are expected to complete a weekly two-page typewritten reaction paper along with the formulation of questions for class discussion. A final paper will be assigned.
Research Project III
The Research Project is a major research effort designed to enhance knowledge in an area related to one’s professional work. Additional outcomes include: improving one’s writing skills, improving one’s presentation skills, and developing research skills to assist in effective decision making. The thesis project culminates with a final reporting in class.
Updated: Summer 2008
