Graduate Business Course Descriptions

AC Courses

AC-501. Managerial Accounting. 3.00 Credits.

This course covers the processes of identifying, measuring, analyzing, interpreting, and communicating accounting and financial data needed to make strategic and operational decisions. Students learn about the issues facing service, nonprofit, retail, and manufacturing firms and about topics such as activity-based costing, customer profitability analysis and budgeting and performance evaluation.

AC-520. Financial Accounting & Reporting. 3.00 Credits.

Review of accounting issues and concepts by focusing on issues affecting financial reporting, and by blending accounting theory with practical applications through extensive use of cases.

AC-541. Internal Controls / Sarbox. 3.00 Credits.

This course covers techniques to provide a reasonable assurance that an organization will achieve its objectives with respect to the effectiveness and efficiency of operations, reliability of financial reporting, and compliance with applicable laws and regulation. A major focus of the course is the Sarbanes-Oxley legislation dealing with securities acts, audit and non-audit services, and penalties for violations of securities and other laws. Prerequisites: AC-501.

AC-543. Forensic Accounting/Internal Auditing. 3.00 Credits.

This course examines how accountants use business information and financial reporting systems to estimate economic damages or identify errors or fraud in accounts or inventories. It incorporates the internal audit process of verifying the accuracy of internal records, searching for mismanagement and waste, reviewing the efficiency and effectiveness of operations, and advising on compliance with corporate policies and procedures and government laws, and regulations. Additional course fee of $45. Prerequisites: AC-501 AC-520 AC-541.

AC-553. Corporate & Partnership Taxation. 3.00 Credits.

This course provides an in-depth analysis of factors affecting federal income tax planning and compliance for corporations and partnerships. Prerequisites: AC-501 AC-520.

AC-567. Introduction to Project Management. 3.00 Credits.

Students will enumerate and utilize best practices and current process guidelines in project management within a variety of corporate contexts and industries, in order to achieve organizational objectives through budgeting, planning, marketing, financial forecasting, staffing and human relations, as well as other aspects of management science at the project and/or enterprise levels. While doing so, students will incorporate contemporary developments in global and virtual project management.

AC-570. Financial Statement Analysis. 3.00 Credits.

Covers the application of analytical tools to general purpose financial statements necessary to evaluate the financial condition of the firm and evaluate the future prospects of the company. The "analyst" can be any of several interested groups: investor, creditor or other stakeholders such as employees, customers, suppliers or government. Prerequisites: AC-501.

AC-576. Project Portfolio Tools & Technology. 3.00 Credits.

Students will refine their practical, theoretical and technical competencies in project management consistent with industry best practices, focusing on the intricacies of managing projects within a contemporary competitive environment in order to deliver tangible business outcomes. They will do so by utilizing project organization, stakeholder analysis, communication planning, risk and issue management, quality management, procurement, and project leadership they will also frame their project management endeavors within the broader context of business execution, which includes program and portfolio management, organizational change, strategic business planning and implementation, as well as the operation of a project management office. Prerequisites: GB-567 OR AC-567.

GB Courses

GB-500. Executive Communication. 3.00 Credits.

Mastery of effective written communication is essential for success in the business world. In this course, students will learn to analyze and produce texts in a variety of formats and genres based on their particular professional goals.

GB-503. Statistics for Managers. 3.00 Credits.

This course covers concepts of probability and statistics needed by managers to analyze and interpret numerical data in uncertain environments. It includes hypothesis testing, regression and correlation analysis and analysis of variance. Concepts are discussed in a framework of real world applications.

GB-505. Internet of Things for Managers. 3.00 Credits.

Students will learn how to extract real-world data from sensors in device, integrate them to services in the cloud, and gather valuable insights to improve business operations and enable innovative industry business models, using analytics and artificial intelligence.

GB-511. Management & Human Behavior. 3.00 Credits.

This course covers planning, organizing, staffing, directing, and the management of change in a modern organization. It examines decision making and problem solving in pursuit of organizational goals. It addresses human behavior in the areas of motivation, communication, and interpersonal relations.

GB-513. Marketing Management. 3.00 Credits.

This course examines the field of marketing and the dynamics of matching goods and services with customer and consumer needs. Topics include strategic planning, marketing research, and buyer behavior of businesses and consumers. The course covers the marketing functions of product mix and branding, price determination, channels of distribution and promotion and advertising.

GB-517. Business Ethics and Sustainability. 3.00 Credits.

This course provides a framework for students to recognize ethical dilemmas and analyze the business implications in terms of consequences, autonomy, rights, virtues and equality. Extensive use is made case studies and current events using presentation, discussion and debate delivery methods.

GB-519. Real Estate Legal Environment. 3.00 Credits.

This course covers the fundamentals of legal issues in real estate finance and development from through a managerial lens. This course is a component of the MBA in Real Estate and develops skills in legal concepts in a real estate setting. Topics that are included in the course are land acquisition, finance; choice of entity; tax aspects; management (leasing, environmental); disposition of real property (sale of mortgaged property, foreclosures, wraparound mortgages, sale-leasebacks), and recent legal developments.

GB-520. Nonprofit Management. 3.00 Credits.

This course will provide an introduction to some of the special management and leadership issues facing nonprofit organizations. Ethical challenges within the nonprofit sector will also be explored.

GB-530. Corporate Finance. 3.00 Credits.

A study of the problems associated with the financial management of business organizations. Topics include the analysis of types of firms and markets, review of accounting, time value of money, valuation, and short-term financing.

GB-533. Enterprise Design Thinking. 3.00 Credits.

Students will learn a robust framework for applying design thinking techniques to key issues facing organizations across industries. Key skills developed include shared goal setting and decision-making, processes for continuous innovation, and the alignment of multi-disciplinary teams around the real needs and experiences of users and customers. Through instruction, experiential learning and an industry-recognized methodology, students will gain practice in the successful application of design thinking techniques to address common business problems.

GB-535. International Finance. 3.00 Credits.

Analysis of the international financial decisions of multinational corporations. Topics to be covered include foreign exchange rates and the structure of foreign capital markets. Particular emphasis is placed on management decisions in an international environment including cash flows, capital budgeting, valuation, and the optimal capital structure for international operations. Prerequisites: GB-530.

GB-541. Blockchain for Managers. 3.00 Credits.

Students will learn how to help organizations lead the way into the adoption of Blockchain, identify industry areas for Blockchain applications and apply smart contracts using open source leading Blockchain technologies.

GB-555. Personal Branding. 3.00 Credits.

This course is designed to help graduate students evaluate and improve their skill sets to establish themselves as a brand. Learn the personal branding process to create a portfolio that exploits social media, blog/websites, video resumes, networking, etc.

GB-560. Data Science for Managers. 3.00 Credits.

Students will use advanced data science methods and tools, leveraging statistical sciences, machine learning technologies and industry-specific datasets, to learn how to implement unique data models that can solve challenging problems across all industries.

GB-565. Derivative Markets. 3.00 Credits.

An examination of derivative securities, market structures, and various valuation models. The course includes discussion of spot and future markets, the valuation of futures and options, investment strategies, portfolio insurance, and recent developments in futures and options markets. Prerequisites: GB-530(8454).

GB-567. Introduction to Project Management. 3.00 Credits.

Students will enumerate and utilize best practices and current process guidelines in project management within a variety of corporate contexts and industries, in order to achieve organizational objectives through budgeting, planning, marketing, financial forecasting, staffing and human relations, as well as other aspects of management science at the project and/or enterprise levels. While doing so, students will incorporate contemporary developments in global and virtual project management.

GB-570. Investment Analysis. 3.00 Credits.

An investigation of various financial instruments - including treasury securities, corporate bonds, stocks, options, and futures - as vehicles for effective investment decisions. Selected topics include: portfolio analysis, efficient markets, and analytical techniques for determining the value of specific financial instruments. Prerequisites: GB-530.

GB-576. Project Portfolio Tools & Technology. 3.00 Credits.

Students will refine their practical, theoretical and technical competencies in project management consistent with industry best practices, focusing on the intricacies of managing projects within a contemporary competitive environment in order to deliver tangible business outcomes. They will do so by utilizing project organization, stakeholder analysis, communication planning, risk and issue management, quality management, procurement, and project leadership they will also frame their project management endeavors within the broader context of business execution, which includes program and portfolio management, organizational change, strategic business planning and implementation, as well as the operation of a project management office. Prerequisites: GB-567 OR AC-567.

GB-580. Artificial Intelligence for Managers. 3.00 Credits.

This course explores the topics, technology, and skills required for the successful development and implementation of Artificial Intelligence in today's business landscape. Students will explore methodologies used in analyzing the data interpreted by AI and effectively adapting the analysis into business requirements.

GB-590. Cloud Computing for Managers. 3.00 Credits.

Students will create disruptive cloud-based solutions that can provide unique customer experiences through the use of user-centric design practices, agile methodologies and the integration of cloud-based security, data and AI capabilities.

GB-595. Hedge Fund Management. 3.00 Credits.

This course contrasts the analytical methods of traditional fundamental analysis and quantitative investing analysis by focusing on investment management, types of investment funds such as mutual funds, ETFs, hedge funds, high frequency trading, etc. Hedge funds and hedge fund investment analysis methods are going to be analyzed in detail during this course. Prerequisites: GB-511 DS-660.

GB-596. Real Estate Practicum Capstone. 3.00 Credits.

The practicum capstone course provides a project-based hands on approach for students to experience firsthand the real estate development process from the ground up. Students will be able to use the tools and frameworks provided throughout the program curriculum to this applied experiential practicum, that puts the students in the role of decision maker and leader, as well as cover a variety of real estate product types, including office, retail, warehouse, mixed residential and specialty uses.

GB-619. Employment Law. 3.00 Credits.

Students will review key legislation and legal cases that form the framework within the human resources management discipline. Areas covered include rights and duties of both employer and employee in the employment relationship, legislation pertaining to employment standards, employment equity, workers' compensation, health and safety acts and other related topics. Prerequisites: GB-511 OR GB-621.

GB-620. Leadership. 3.00 Credits.

Business today requires leaders who enable organizations to respond quickly and efficiently to new market opportunities, new competitors, acquisitions, shifting market demographics, new technology and changes in government regulations. Topics explored include: the basic fundamentals of leadership; various aspects of the relationship between leaders and teams, and their impact on organizations.

GB-621. Human Resources. 3.00 Credits.

This course provides an overview of the principles and philosophy of human resource management. Topics include recruiting, hiring, training, and compensating employees, creating policies and procedures to improve employee productivity, developing effective and efficient systems for management, and methods to assure legal compliance. Prerequisites: GB-511.

GB-622. Management Economics. 3.00 Credits.

This course examines the foundation concepts for how organizations allocate resources for the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. Economic decisions are linked to the organization, management, and strategy involved with the conduct of operations. This course focuses on how mangers can improve their understanding of the economic environment and its impact on the business firm.

GB-623. Entrepreneurship & Innovation. 3.00 Credits.

Covers skills and talents essential for a successful entrepreneur and explores the role of innovation in business ventures and strategy.

GB-624. Technology for Managers. 3.00 Credits.

This course examines the emerging role of technology and applications to support organizational business models and computer systems. It integrates data base management and planning and controlling new systems, it discusses security and other issues related to systems support for marketing, management, and financial reporting.

GB-625. International Business. 3.00 Credits.

This course provides an understanding of best practices managing business operations that cross national boundaries. It covers strategies, planning, and operations. A particular focus is the current opportunities and risks in global operations and markets. It uses projects to challenge attendees to incorporate new thought processes in decision making and problem solving in developed countries.

GB-626. Cyber Risk Management and Insurance. 3.00 Credits.

This course deals with the role of the risk manager advising on business interruption arising from failures of management information and telecommunications systems. It addresses the complexity of technology, interaction of the web and back office, and security failures. It covers the use of cyber insurance and risk transfer strategies to protect assets, people, and business operations. Course Type(s): Online Course.

GB-628. Organizational Theory. 3.00 Credits.

Organizational theory (OT) is the study of how and why organizations function and create value. The evolution of technology has increased in frequency and complexity to challenge the traditional organization by greatly changing the way employees work and the work they do. This course will examine the historical origins of OT and will explore current approaches to managing organizational processes through designed structure and culture.

GB-629. Enterprise Risk Management. 3.00 Credits.

This course covers the emerging discipline of enterprise risk management (ERM) . It starts with ERM essentials covering key components needed to manage enterprise risk and the role of a central risk function. It discusses risk identification and sharing using a high-tech electronic platform. It considers unexpected and unforeseen major crises or disaster that are virtually unpredictable. It exams new technology to visualize risk relationships and back up the view with factors that affect them and the status of activities to mitigate them.

GB-630. Strategic Risk Management. 3.00 Credits.

This course covers risks without owners in the emerging discipline of enterprise risk management (ERM) . It exams risks and opportunities that depend upon collaboration because they cross the silos of the modern bureaucracy. Discussions cover sub-culture risk, leadership risk, and life-cycle risk. In addition, the course contains risk management stories ranging from avoiding business disruptions to the future of ERM.

GB-631. Risk Management and Insurance. 3.00 Credits.

This course covers risk management from the perspective of insurable exposures that confront modern organizations. It examines decisions to retain, mitigate, or transfer exposures. Topics include property, general liability, and employer liability exposures, protecting directors and officers, and managing potential disruptions to operations. Special attention is given to the role of and expectations from brokers, broker performance, and the compensation of brokers.

GB-632. Negotiations & Conflict Resolution. 3.00 Credits.

This course presents the conceptual framework and a deep focus on business and negotiation skills and strategies, conflict resolution and relationship management to equip the student to maintain healthy business relationships. Prerequisites: GB-511.

GB-633. Executives in Residence Seminar I. 3.00 Credits.

This course brings senior executives to the classroom to exchange ideas on the goals and strategies of companies and industries. The course will identify issues related to current trends in business strategy. Candidates will work in teams to develop an understanding of critical success factors in global business strategies and create presentations. Guest executives will respond to the presentations with their own views on goals, strategies, and current business trends. This course is generally offered in the Fall.

GB-634. Executives in Residence Seminar II. 3.00 Credits.

This course brings senior executives to the classroom to exchange ideas on the goals and strategies of companies and industries. Candidates participate in the seminar and then create a presentation on the ideas and lessons learned in the interaction with executives. This course is generally offered in the Spring.

GB-638. Disaster Recovery. 3.00 Credits.

In this course students will learn how to identify cyber security vulnerabilities and implement appropriate countermeasures to mitigate risks. Techniques will be taught for creating a continuity plan and methodology for building an infrastructure that supports its effective implementation. Throughout this course, skills in disaster recovery planning will be acquired through a series of interactive workshops and case studies. Students will design and develop a disaster recovery plan. Prerequisites: CY-510 OR GB-639.

GB-639. Cyber Security and Risk Management. 3.00 Credits.

In this course we will study the concepts in cyber security design and implementation for computer systems (both hardware and software). Security architecture, organization policies, standards, procedures, and security system implementation, including diagnostic testing of databases and networks. Throughout this course, practical skills will also be acquired through a series of interactive risk assessment workshops and case studies.

GB-640. Cyber Crime Invest & Digital Forensics. 3.00 Credits.

The topics covered in this course include cyber-crime investigation, digital forensics, forensic duplication and analysis, network surveillance, intrusion detection and response, incident response, anti-forensics techniques, anonymity and pseudonymity, cyber law, computer security policies and guidelines, court report writing and presentations, and case studies. The course will include lecture and demonstrations and is designed around a virtual lab environment that provides for robust and realistic hands-on experience in working with a range of information assurance topics. Students will be assigned projects to apply information security practices and technologies to solve real-world cyber security problems.

GB-641. Marketing Strategy. 3.00 Credits.

This course equips the student with advanced marketing concepts and methods to provide and sustain customer value. Emphasis is placed on the tools managers use to analyze marketing problems and make effective decisions. Discussions include case studies, analysis of marketing models, group presentations, and computer-based models to reinforce the marketing strategies. Prerequisites: GB-513 OR GB-643.

GB-643. International Marketing. 3.00 Credits.

This course covers the process of international marketing including techniques of exporting and importing, creating foreign direct investments, licensing, franchising, partnering, and other structures. Discussions focus on cultural and economic factors that shape strategies in developed and developing consumer and business markets and strategies for successful branding, pricing, and promotion.

GB-645. Marketing Research. 3.00 Credits.

This course covers the tools and techniques used to gather information in order to identify market opportunities, monitor marketing performance and evaluate market change. Special attention is given to matching the characteristics of products and services with the needs of businesses and individual buyers. Prerequisites: GB-513.

GB-646. Crisis Communications. 3.00 Credits.

The need for effective crisis communication is a valuable asset for an organization, especially now in a 24-hour news cycle and with multiple social media outlets. The focus of the course is to identify, define and prepare students to proactively and effectively respond to crisis situations.

GB-647. Global Logistics. 3.00 Credits.

Students will investigate international movements from producing through distribution to the sale of components and finished products in order to solve problems and create solutions when managing complex supply chains. Class discussions will include planning and managing systems that create efficient and timely cross-border and cross-ocean shipments.

GB-648. Social Networking & New Media. 3.00 Credits.

This course is part class and part workshop, covering social networking and other trends that are producing complex and subtle changes in business communications. Topics include blogging, YouTube, Second Life and various social networking sites and their emerging role for private businesses, their products, and markets. Attention is paid to current trends in convergence, creativity, collaboration and community as modern media replaces earlier forms of communication and attracts more active --- and interactive ---audiences. The goal of the course is for students to familiarize themselves with various social networking theories, perspectives, sites, tools, and strategies, and to critique, consult on and create social networking plans.

GB-650. Business Analytics. 3.00 Credits.

Introduction to statistical analysis using three software packages: WATSON, Excel and Tableau; probability: distributions, expectation, variance, covariance, portfolios, central limit theorem; data summaries and descriptive statistics.

GB-651. Predictive Analytics. 3.00 Credits.

Analysis of time series data with emphasis on appropriate choice of forecasting, estimation, and testing methods to solve business problems.

GB-652. Industry Analytics. 3.00 Credits.

This course covers concepts and techniques for retrieving, exploring, visualizing, and analyzing data to develop marketing strategies, and key metrics to assess goals and return on investment. Special emphasis on market segmentation, social media and website clickstream data.

GB-653. Real Estate Valuation & Market Analysis. 3.00 Credits.

This course explores the steps and data techniques used in the valuation and market analysis process. It provides an analysis of real estate trends, market activity, sales, lending, leasing, and the research process. Additional topics include land-use studies and city planning, traffic studies, population behavior and mobility, and consumer spending and trade area. Pedagogy includes live lectures, case studies, simulations, and class discussion.

GB-654. Property Mgmt Real Estate Invest Mgmt. 3.00 Credits.

This course includes coverage on the area of commercial property management, allowing students to gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices and skills needed to manage commercial office and mixed-use buildings. Among the topics covered within this course are: ownership structures and investment strategies; management plans and agreements; operating procedures; fees; personnel management; risk management and insurance; ethics; and many more. In addition, current industry trends and analysis of key issues within real estate investments will be explored. Students will have the ability to combine theory with practice regarding specific relevant topics.

GB-655. Real Estate Development. 3.00 Credits.

This course is an introduction into different phases of the real estate development process. These include conceptualization, site acquisition, planning and design, construction, financing, leasing, and marketing. In addition, you will learn about leadership, management, and control of a development team. Studying various case studies and analytical tools, you will learn how to align your development vision and decisions with best practices and current trends within the industry.

GB-657. Urban Design Zoning & Land Use. 3.00 Credits.

This course introduces key areas within planning such as housing, land use and transportation. Other topics explored include zoning, entitlements, environmental impact assessments and legal and regulatory issues. More broadly students will learn about risks and opportunities for urban planning and design and land use, that considers multiple stakeholders and an inclusive approach.

GB-661. E-Commerce Technology. 3.00 Credits.

This course provides an understanding of e-Commerce as a modern business methodology that addresses the needs of organizations, merchants, and consumers for the delivery of goods and services using information technology. The course will provide an introduction to the network and system architectures that support high volume business to consumer web sites and portals, and will provide insight into the structure of the modern web enabled storefront and its integration with "back-office" business applications.

GB-667. Disaster Recovery. 3.00 Credits.

This course covers the identification of vulnerabilities and the steps necessary to mitigate risks. It examines creating a continuity plan and building an infrastructure that supports its effective implementation. Practical skills will be acquired through interactive workshops and case study. Topics include performing a threat and impact analysis, developing strategies for systems and communications recovery, organizing an emergency team, and creating a disaster recovery plan.

GB-669. Decision Support Systems. 3.00 Credits.

A hands-on survey of various software packages to aid a manager in his/her decision making functions. Packages include enterprise resource planning, financial, administrative, report-writers, project management and scheduling, graphics, publishing and multimedia. Students will conduct an evaluation on top software products in the marketplace.

GB-671. Health Care Financing & Risk Management. 3.00 Credits.

An examination of concepts related to health care financing. Emphasis will be placed on budget preparation, cost benefit analysis, managed care and on developing an understanding of reimbursement systems.

GB-672. Current Issues & Policies in Health Care. 3.00 Credits.

This course covers political, social, and economic issues affecting health care organizations. Topics include the role of government in determining health care policy, the U.S. health care delivery system, costs and financing of health care, and social welfare gains and losses. Candidates will engage in interactive discussions of current trends and economic and social issues related to efforts to reform or revise the health care system.

GB-673. Health Care Administration. 3.00 Credits.

Management, marketing, and financing of the delivery of health care will be explored. Healthcare economics is emphasized from an administrative perspective. The examination of quality versus quantity, the allocation of resources as well as relationships and conflicts among consumers and providers of health care services. Concepts related to technology, including the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) affecting health care organizations is discussed.

GB-674. Health Care Administration II. 3.00 Credits.

An examination of quality issues and measures utilized in healthcare, human resource management in healthcare settings including physician and labor relations, recruiting, retaining and developing clinical staff, as well as medical malpractice, compliance and Medicare fraud and abuse issues.

GB-693. Credited Internship. 3.00 Credits.

GB-694. Mindfulness/Meditative Practice/ Success. 3.00 Credits.

This class will teach students the history and application of mindfulness and meditation as practiced around the world. Students will learn how the practice of mindfulness and meditation can help develop the skills necessary for success in their future as business professionals, lawyers, and leaders generally. Mindfulness directs a person's thoughts to the present which enhances one's ability to focus thought and concentration as well as to respond most appropriately and ethically to others, to cross cultural barriers and maintain deeper empathy for all. Meditation practice enhances students' abilities to become more consciously aware, feel gratitude, and in turn to have respect, kindness, and consideration for others. We will explore these concepts as celebrated in different cultures and how application of both will propel students to their greatest potential. Course Type(s): International (Travel).

GB-695. Global Business Policy. 3.00 Credits.

This course develops a comprehensive approach to problem solving and decision making. Students demonstrate a mastery of concepts as they analyze projects with a setting in a specific international environment. Develops skills in strategic planning and making decisions and recommendations in operational and financial areas.

GB-697. Global Business Cultural Experience. 3.00 Credits.

This course seeks to foster a global mind set among participants by exposing them to the business cultures and ethics of different countries. The course involves overseas travel to selected countries for students to experience at first hand the milieu of cultures that underpin global business in the 21st century. Additional travel course fee of $50. Course Type(s): International (Travel).

GB-698. Exploring Legal Concepts Overseas. 3.00 Credits.

In this course we will discuss different legal concepts as they pertain to foreign countries and as compared/contrasted to the American Legal System. Such topics may include, but are not limited to, the structure of the legal system, the origin and philosophy of law, the social and economic effects of the law in the foreign country, contemporary and controversial legal issues in the foreign country, and the impact all of these concepts may have had and/or continue to have on American Law. Additional course fee of $50. Course Type(s): International (Travel).

GB-699. Capstone in Corporate Strategy. 3.00 Credits.

This course is to be taken within the last 9 credits of the MBA Program and covers the integration of management, marketing, and finance in modern organizations. It incorporates the best practices in strategic planning and decision making in complex and changing environments. Current trends and strategies are examined in a variety of areas including ethics, social responsibility, and risk management. Additional course fee of $45. Course Type(s): Capstone.