Course Descriptions

MBA517 Special Topics: International Finance (1 cr.)

This course explores current topics for business leaders to build competency through an examination of contemporary issues.  The course covers summarized information on the topic assigned, including theories, practical application, and examples. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify and implement practical application of the content area.
2. Identify appropriate ethical considerations related to the given topic.
3. Demonstrate emerging knowledge of the topic.
4. Analyze and evaluate the need for additional resources, including appropriate collaboration with other disciplines, professionals, and/or systems.

MBA518 Special Topics: Healthcare Policy (1 cr.)

This course explores current topics for business leaders to build competency through an examination of contemporary issues.  The course covers summarized information on the topic assigned, including theories, practical application, and examples. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify and implement practical application of the content area.
2. Identify appropriate ethical considerations related to the given topic.
3. Demonstrate emerging knowledge of the topic.
4. Analyze and evaluate the need for additional resources, including appropriate collaboration with other disciplines, professionals, and/or systems.

MBA519 Special Topics: Healthcare Systems (1 cr.)

This course explores current topics for business leaders to build competency through an examination of contemporary issues.  The course covers summarized information on the topic assigned, including theories, practical application, and examples. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify and implement practical application of the content area.
2. Identify appropriate ethical considerations related to the given topic.
3. Demonstrate emerging knowledge of the topic.
4. Analyze and evaluate the need for additional resources, including appropriate collaboration with other disciplines, professionals, and/or systems.

MBA521 Special Topics: Benefits and Compensation (1 cr.)

This course explores current topics for business leaders to build competency through an examination of contemporary issues.  The course covers summarized information on the topic assigned, including theories, practical application, and examples. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify and implement practical application of the content area.
2. Identify appropriate ethical considerations related to the given topic.
3. Demonstrate emerging knowledge of the topic.
4. Analyze and evaluate the need for additional resources, including appropriate collaboration with other disciplines, professionals, and/or systems.

MBA522 Special Topics: Employment Law (1 cr.)

This course explores current topics for business leaders to build competency through an examination of contemporary issues.  The course covers summarized information on the topic assigned, including theories, practical application, and examples. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify and implement practical application of the content area.
2. Identify appropriate ethical considerations related to the given topic.
3. Demonstrate emerging knowledge of the topic.
4. Analyze and evaluate the need for additional resources, including appropriate collaboration with other disciplines, professionals, and/or systems.

MBA523 Special Topics: Consumer Behavior (1 cr.)

This course explores current topics for business leaders to build competency through an examination of contemporary issues.  The course covers summarized information on the topic assigned, including theories, practical application, and examples. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify and implement practical application of the content area.
2. Identify appropriate ethical considerations related to the given topic.
3. Demonstrate emerging knowledge of the topic.
4. Analyze and evaluate the need for additional resources, including appropriate collaboration with other disciplines, professionals, and/or systems.

MBA524 Special Topics: Issues in E-Commerce (1 cr.)

This course explores current topics for business leaders to build competency through an examination of contemporary issues.  The course covers summarized information on the topic assigned, including theories, practical application, and examples. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify and implement practical application of the content area.
2. Identify appropriate ethical considerations related to the given topic.
3. Demonstrate emerging knowledge of the topic.
4. Analyze and evaluate the need for additional resources, including appropriate collaboration with other disciplines, professionals, and/or systems.

MBA525 Special Topics: Marketing Research Strategies (1 cr.)

This course explores current topics for business leaders to build competency through an examination of contemporary issues.  The course covers summarized information on the topic assigned, including theories, practical application, and examples. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify and implement practical application of the content area.
2. Identify appropriate ethical considerations related to the given topic.
3. Demonstrate emerging knowledge of the topic.
4. Analyze and evaluate the need for additional resources, including appropriate collaboration with other disciplines, professionals, and/or systems.

MBA526 Special Topics: Advertising (1 cr.)

This course explores current topics for business leaders to build competency through an examination of contemporary issues.  The course covers summarized information on the topic assigned, including theories, practical application, and examples. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify and implement practical application of the content area.
2. Identify appropriate ethical considerations related to the given topic.
3. Demonstrate emerging knowledge of the topic.
4. Analyze and evaluate the need for additional resources, including appropriate collaboration with other disciplines, professionals, and/or systems.

MBA527 Special Topics: Forensic Accounting (1 cr.)

This course explores current topics for business leaders to build competency through an examination of contemporary issues.  The course covers summarized information on the topic assigned, including theories, practical application, and examples. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify and implement practical application of the content area.
2. Identify appropriate ethical considerations related to the given topic.
3. Demonstrate emerging knowledge of the topic.
4. Analyze and evaluate the need for additional resources, including appropriate collaboration with other disciplines, professionals, and/or systems.

MBA528 Special Topics: Emerging Issues in Accounting (1 cr.)

This course explores current topics for business leaders to build competency through an examination of contemporary issues.  The course covers summarized information on the topic assigned, including theories, practical application, and examples. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify and implement practical application of the content area.
2. Identify appropriate ethical considerations related to the given topic.
3. Demonstrate emerging knowledge of the topic.
4. Analyze and evaluate the need for additional resources, including appropriate collaboration with other disciplines, professionals, and/or systems.

MBA529 Special Topics: Decision Modeling (1 cr.)

This course explores current topics for business leaders to build competency through an examination of contemporary issues.  The course covers summarized information on the topic assigned, including theories, practical application, and examples. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify and implement practical application of the content area.
2. Identify appropriate ethical considerations related to the given topic.
3. Demonstrate emerging knowledge of the topic.
4. Analyze and evaluate the need for additional resources, including appropriate collaboration with other disciplines, professionals, and/or systems.

MBA530 Special Topics: Web Analytics (1 cr.)

This course explores current topics for business leaders to build competency through an examination of contemporary issues.  The course covers summarized information on the topic assigned, including theories, practical application, and examples. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify and implement practical application of the content area.
2. Identify appropriate ethical considerations related to the given topic.
3. Demonstrate emerging knowledge of the topic.
4. Analyze and evaluate the need for additional resources, including appropriate collaboration with other disciplines, professionals, and/or systems.

MBA531 Special Topics: Measuring the Value of Social and Environment Responsibility (1 cr.)

This course explores current topics for business leaders to build competency through an examination of contemporary issues.  The course covers summarized information on the topic assigned, including theories, practical application, and examples. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify and implement practical application of the content area.
2. Identify appropriate ethical considerations related to the given topic.
3. Demonstrate emerging knowledge of the topic.
4. Analyze and evaluate the need for additional resources, including appropriate collaboration with other disciplines, professionals, and/or systems.

MBA532 Capitalism in the 21st Century (1 cr.)

This course explores current topics for business leaders to build competency through an examination of contemporary issues.  The course covers summarized information on the topic assigned, including theories, practical application, and examples. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify and implement practical application of the content area.
2. Identify appropriate ethical considerations related to the given topic.
3. Demonstrate emerging knowledge of the topic.
4. Analyze and evaluate the need for additional resources, including appropriate collaboration with other disciplines, professionals, and/or systems.

MBA600 Quantitative Decision Making (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): MBA618 
This course is designed to give students a practitioner’s ability to utilize quantitative decision making tools and techniques commonly used in business. The QDM tools and techniques used in operations management, inventory management, marketing, project management and finance are covered. Topics include hypothesis testing, confidence intervals, subjective probability, decision trees, Bayes Theorem, and regression.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Utilize hypothesis testing, confidence intervals, and regression to obtain a quantitative basis to make business decisions.
2. Apply decisions trees to qualitative situations in business.
3. Apply subjective probabilities to provide insight into business situations involving uncertainty and risk.
4. Utilize decision software designed to support qualitative business decision making.
    

MBA604 Managerial Economics (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): MBA616  
This course focuses on the application of economic theory to examine how an organization can efficiently achieve its aims or objectives. The tools and applications used by organizations to make decisions and assess their outcomes in a global context are covered. Topics include advanced supply and demand analysis and estimation, production and cost analysis, market structure and price analysis, regulation and risk analysis, and global pricing practices.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Forecast market trends in prices and industry profitability in a global context.
2. Assess the competitiveness of a firm within an industry from a production and cost perspective in a global environment.
3. Analyze market demand from a competitive and profitability perspective in a global environment.
4. Analyze the impact of global forces on market structure and firm behavior.
    

MBA609 International Operations Management (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): MBA618  
This course covers the tools, techniques, and methodologies used by managers to plan, design, and implement control systems that create/produce services and/or goods in an organization. The decisions for which operations managers are held accountable; methods used to make those decisions; and the factors affecting productivity, effectiveness, and efficiency in an organization are covered. Topics include strategic considerations in operations management, operations decision making, quality management, forecasting, just-in-time inventory management, the impact of culture on the management of operations, and facility location for an international network.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Apply the basic terms, principles, concepts, techniques, tools, and methodologies of operations management.
2. Perform representative analysis and problem solving.
3. Review and examine techniques of enterprise control and performance management.
4. Assess the impact of strategic managerial actions on the shape and direction of the operational function.
5. Develop an operations plan which integrates human, technological, and economic factors.
6. Assess the impact of culture on the operations function.
7. Assess the linkage between the factors that affect the operations system.
    

MBA610 Organizations and Human Behavior (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): MBA619  
This course examines human behavior and social relationships in the workplace setting from a domestic and intercultural perspective. The theories, history, and practice of promoting effective individual and group behavior in organizations across cultures are covered. Topics include groups and teams, multicultural teams, power and influence, trust, gender and equality, the impact of culture on work behavior, and creating cultural synergy in a multicultural work environment.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Deconstruct the dynamics and complexities of individual and group behavior in a workplace setting.
2. Build multicultural teams.
3. Recognize and manage issues of justice, gender, equality, ethics, and trust as they arise in the workplace.
4. Design a plan to promote cultural synergy in a workplace setting.
    

MBA612 Executive Communication (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): Program Director permission
This course gives students the opportunity to study effective organizational communication essential for executive and transformational leadership. Organizational communication structure, ethical communication styles, and executive summary techniques are examined. Strategies for effective leadership communication are explored at all levels of the organization.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Apply and present effective executive communication techniques.
2. Evaluate the ethical dimension of organizational communication.
3. Apply communication theory to the analysis of case studies.
4. Articulate an executive mission and vision.
5. Analyze and compare organizational communication climates.

MBA613 Ethical Leadership (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): MBA619  or MBA612  
This course provides a theoretical framework to analyze and evaluate the ethical dimension of leadership practices. Topics include the implementation of ethical leadership models and practices, ethical considerations in multinational organizational strategy, and building and maintaining international partnerships. The case method is employed to analyze and evaluate the leaders of firms diverse in their perspective and scope.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Apply ethical leadership techniques.
2. Evaluate the ethical dimension of organizational strategy with an emphasis on social responsibility.
3. Analyze ethical leadership models via the case study method.
4. Evaluate the impact of leadership practices on organizational climate.
5. Articulate the unique challenges of ethical leadership in international partnerships.
    

MBA614 Practicum (3 cr.)

MBA615 Independent Study (1 cr.)

MBA616 Principles of Economics and Marketing (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): MBA617  
This course is designed to give students an overview of the principles of macro- and microeconomics, and the marketing function within an organization.  Students examine supply-demand analysis at the industry and firm level, market structures, elasticity analysis, macroeconomic indicators of the economy, business cycle analysis, and the impact of government economic policy on business.  The marketing techniques used by firms operating in a global environment are also covered.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Use supply and demand fundamentals to analyze market activity.
2. Apply the principles of market structure to analyze behavior of firms in an industry.
3. Use macroeconomic indicators to explain the business environment.
4. Articulate the purpose, purview, and policies of the major institutions that constitute U.S. economic policy.
5. Apply the marketing mix to meet market demands.

MBA617 Finance and Accounting Concepts (3 cr.)

This course introduces the essential financial tools, principles, and practices used by business. The course addresses risk and rates of return, time value of money, capital budgeting techniques, and working capital management.  Accounting topics include financial accounting methods, preparation of financial statements, internal control, and accounting for partnerships and corporations.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Use capital budgeting techniques needed to make financial decisions in an organization.
2. Apply the concepts of working capital management.
3. Apply the concept of time value of money.
4. Prepare a business ledger and financial statements.
5. Prepare accounts for partnership and corporations.
6. Use the tools of financial forecasting, planning, and control needed to make managerial decisions in an organization.

MBA618 Business Statistics (3 cr.)

This course is designed to give students a foundation in applied math and statistics. The tools and applications used in graduate business courses and by individuals in managerial positions are covered. Topics include ratio analysis and comparisons, descriptive and inferential statistics, correlation, analysis of variance, and regression.  Additionally, concepts in algebra, trigonometry, and pre-calculus as used in the analysis of business problems are covered.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Apply descriptive statistics.
2. Organize, interpret, and analyze data to obtain a quantitative basis to make decisions.
3. Utilize algebraic functions to evaluate quantitative situations in business.
4. Solve business problems through equations and matrices.
5. Apply correlations, analysis of variance, and simple linear regression to business situations.

MBA619 Graduate School Writing (3 cr.)

The course familiarizes graduate students with the expectations and conventions of graduate writing and research at Saint Mary’s University. It is designed for students with limited graduate writing experience, students who want to refresh their writing skills, and students who need to learn APA style. Course content includes (a) forms of graduate discourse; (b) APA rules of grammar, punctuation, and usage; and (c) methods and resources for graduate research through the Saint Mary’s University Library.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of spelling, grammar, and usage as determined by APA.
2. Employ the citation and reference style of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association.
3. Assess the strengths and weaknesses of their own writing.
4. Compose a variety of forms of graduate level discourses.
5. Retrieve field-specific academic resources from the SMU Library catalog and periodical indexes.
6. Evaluate research findings for scholarship and reliability.

MBA631 Data Visualization (3 cr.)

This course reviews the data analytics lifecycle, and provides practical application of advanced analytic theory.  Methods for classifying and predicting relationships within the data are examined.  Students learn to translate data into a narrative for communicating to key stakeholders.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze the contributions of a data science team.
2. Implement a structured data analytics lifestyle approach to problems.
3. Apply appropriate techniques and tools to analyzing big data.
4. Construct a compelling story with data to drive business action.

MBA632 Case Studies in Business Analytics Strategy (3 cr.)

This course focuses on managing analytics at the enterprise level.  Topics include leveraging proprietary data, analytics on the web, predictive analytics in the cloud, and technology and organizational performance.  Case studies allow students to apply principles to actual business scenarios.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Differentiate company products and services by monitoring and analyzing usage patterns.
2. Calculate return on investment as applied to business analytics.
3. Use an enterprise perspective in coordinating the work of analysts to gain the greatest business value.
4. Apply business analytics strategy to complex scenarios.

MBA633 Ethics in Data Analytics (3 cr.)

This course examines the next generation of business analytics and opportunities to use data for the greater good.  Concepts such as social marketing, fraud, risk management, mobile intelligence, human capital, and data privacy are explored. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Explore theories of data analytics from various thought leaders.
2. Evaluate and compare the risks and results of big data technology.
3. Anticipate the shift toward predictive analytics and the necessary safeguards.
4. Assess the company’s rights and responsibilities in collecting data.

MBA634 Digital Storytelling (3 cr.)

This course explores storytelling techniques and media development processes.  Students review industry cases involving a variety of story genres that use platforms such as video games, mobile apps, interactive books, and social media.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Create interactive narratives across various devices, platforms and media.
2. Plan processes for developing stories for entertainment and informative purposes.
3. Utilize and evaluate digital storytelling to teach, train, and inform.

MBA636 Ethics in Social Marketing (3 cr.)

In this course, students work through a model of ethical and policy decision-making for social marketing campaigns and learn how emerging technologies raise ethical considerations.  The concept of privacy and security with regard to social media is also explored.  Topics involving photojournalism, morality, truth in art, and social responsibility are discussed. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the folloiwng:

1. Use philosophical principles applicable to marketing and communications decisions.
2. Evaluate the strategic communication campaign around current client advocacy.
3. Understand the contextual nature of privacy, including the right to know and the need to know.
4. Articulate and apply the stakeholder model of media economics.

MBA637 Sustainability Marketing (3 cr.)

This course focuses on the social, technical and cultural environment that shapes marketing practice and thought.  Concepts such as sustainability marketing mission, objectives, strategies, and mix are explored.  Students also understand the development of sustainability brands and transformative marketing.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able do the following:

1. Analyze the emergence of sustainability marketing in corporate and socio-political contexts.
2. Evaluate the role of sustainability marketing in shaping consumer behavior.
3. Differentiate the assumptions and values of sustainability marketing with those of conventional marketing.

MBA638 Case Studies in Corporate Social Responsibility (3 cr.)

This course provides an overview of the core concepts and practical challenges of corporate social responsibility.  Case studies illustrate the impact of corporate social responsibility on company behavior and strategic planning.  A stakeholder model integrating the government, media, non-profits, communities, and environment is applied to business, industry, and organizational scenarios.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Explore the relationship between an organization and the communities within which it operates.
2. Create a stakeholder model for analyzing corporate social responsibility issues.
3. Construct corporate social responsibility policies and form a plan of action.
4. Develop and assess measurement strategies for accountability and transparency.

MBA640 Managerial Accounting (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): MBA617  
This course examines on the principles and techniques of managerial cost accounting. It covers various cost accounting techniques and the effective use of accounting information for business decision making. Topics include cost-volume-profit analysis, activity based costing, activity based management, inventory costing and capacity analysis, cost allocation, and budgeting.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Use cost accounting techniques to support decision making in an organization.
2. Solve previously unseen problems using the concepts and techniques of managerial accounting.
3. Apply strategic cost management techniques.
4. Contribute to the management capacity of a firm by proper use of costing information.

MBA642 International Financial Management (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): MBA643  
This course applies and expands financial theory and concepts from managerial finance to the case of the multinational firm. Risks arising from exchange rate movements, political events, and regulatory structure are discussed and techniques for hedging developed. Multinational capital budgeting and the management of assets and liabilities are examined.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze the economic exposure of a firm and develop strategies to hedge the exposure.
2. Evaluate the political risk of foreign investment.
3. Apply capital budgeting techniques to proposed foreign investments.
4. Determine the impact of international financial and trade flows on the firm.

MBA643 Corporate Finance (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): MBA617  
This course examines the principles of corporate finance and the tools and practices used in financial decision making. It examines the treasury function of an organization and the decisions made by the treasurer. Topics include long term financing, capital budgeting decisions, beta, debt-equity options, dividend policy analysis, and IPOs.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Use tools and techniques of corporate finance.
2. Support treasurer level decision making with financial information.
3. Demonstrate the ability to make capital budgeting decisions.
4. Create a dividend policy.
5. Prepare financial information necessary to take a company public.

MBA644 Financial Markets and Institutions (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): MBA643 
This course examines the markets and institutions that comprise the financial system. Topics covered include the determination and structure of interest rates, the impact of the Federal Reserve and other central banks on interest rates and economic growth, and the instruments of the debt market. The commercial bank is explored as a special case of a financial institution.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Evaluate the risk/return characteristics of debt instruments.
2. Interpret interest rate differentials among debt instruments.
3. Determine the effects of central bank actions on financial and non-financial firms.
4. Apply financial management tools to a depository financial institution.

MBA645 Derivative Securities (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): MBA643  
This course provides a survey of derivative securities, including options, futures, forwards, and swaps. The role of derivatives in the financial system and the associated risks are examined. The principles of derivative pricing are explored with an emphasis placed on option pricing.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Determine appropriate hedging strategies to reduce or eliminate risk.
2. Evaluate aggregate measures of corporate risk.
3. Apply option pricing principles to security valuation.
4. Assess the effectiveness of the regulation of derivatives.

MBA648 Security Analysis and Portfolio Management (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): MBA643 
This course explores the tools and techniques used to evaluate equity securities, and the management of the risk and return of portfolios. The role of portfolio theory in the construction of portfolios and performance measurement is examined. Topics include industry and competitive strategy analysis, alternative valuation methods, investment policy, asset allocation and protection, and ethical issues in security analysis and portfolio management.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Value equity securities using a variety of methods.
2. Construct portfolios according to varying risk/return preferences.
3. Evaluate the performance of a portfolio.
4. Analyze an industry and evaluate the performance of firms within that industry.

MBA652 Law and Ethics in Environmental Management (3 cr.)

This course studies the role of ethics on environmental management.  Aesthetics, political philosophy, and legal considerations are addressed.  The key performance indicators provided by the Global Reporting Initiative are also explored.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify the societal and environmental impact of business development, and evaluate alternatives.
2. Differentiate individual and company perspectives on green markets and businesses.
3. Apply legal and ethical environmental concepts across industries.

MBA653 Case Studies in Brand Strategy (3 cr.)

This course emphasizes a brand’s ability to simplify customer decision-making, set expectations, and reduce risk.  Students gain a deeper understanding of the importance of maintaining, strengthening, and evolving a brand’s value over time.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Describe the main branding challenges and opportunities.
2. Explain the criteria and tactics for choosing a brand strategy, and the legal issues surrounding this decision.
3. Apply concepts related to planning, implementing and evaluating brand strategy.
4. Assemble a basic brand hierarchy.

MBA669 Strategic Management Capstone (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): All other core courses
This course is the capstone for the MBA program. Students integrate knowledge from previous courses to analyze and evaluate competitive strategies used by firms. The case method is applied to a wide variety of industries and business issues. In addition, students have the live case experience of working with a sponsoring organization. Students assess the external and internal environments of the organization and develop a strategic plan.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Utilize appropriate tools to analyze and evaluate strategic decisions of firms.
2. Design strategies to obtain and sustain competitive advantage.
3. Create a strategic plan to address an organizational need.
    

DBA799 Student Orientation (0 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the DBA program
Attendance is required before DBA students begin coursework.  The orientation sessions introduce students to the faculty; provide a thorough description of the program’s academic expectations; introduce students to library services and the writing center staff; provide valuable information regarding course registration; demonstrate the use of Blackboard; and include a discussion of other important administrative matters.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Enroll in DBA courses online.
2. Procure appropriate services from the Library and Writing Center website or staff.
3. Contact his/her academic adviser.
4. Contact the Program Coordinator or Program Director.

DBA800 Global Markets and Resources (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DBA799 
This course examines the distribution of population and resources globally.  Trends in consumption, income, and employment are explored.  Political, institutional, and cultural forces affecting business are examined.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify the location and control of strategic resources.
2. Explain the evolution of the modern nation states and international alliances.
3. Analyze the effects of political and cultural forces on trade patterns.
4. Interpret current events within a global political and economic framework.

DBA801 The Developed World (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DBA803
This course continues the themes developed in DBA800 and focuses on the consumers, economics, and institutions of the industrialized nations.  Challenges and opportunities facing firms doing business in the developed counties are explored.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Evaluate the composition of the industrialized countries’ economic output.
2. Analyze the challenges and opportunities of doing business in an industrialized country.
3. Analyze the trade patterns of industrialized nations.
4. Summarize the economic and political risks faced by the developed countries.
5. Analyze the roles of the institutions that form the global financial systems.

DBA802 The Developing World (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DBA804
This course continues the themes developed in DBA800 and focuses on the consumers, economies, and institutions of the developing countries.  Challenges and opportunities facing firms doing business in the developing countries are compared and contrasted with those facing firms doing business in the developed countries.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Evaluate the composition of the developing countries’ economic output.
2. Identify the root causes of the risks of doing business in developing countries.
3. Analyze the trade patterns of developing nations.
4. Critique the role of foreign aid in the developing world.
5. Compare doing business in the developed world with doing business in the developing world.

DBA803 Research Foundations (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DBA800 
This course establishes the framework for writing and critiquing scholarly research articles.  The fundamentals of study design, hypothesis testing, sampling techniques, and data analysis are discussed.  Emphasis is placed on ethical issues encountered by researchers.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Develop effective research questions and hypotheses.
2. Evaluate the differences between quantitative and qualitative research.
3. Evaluate social, political, and economic contingencies that impact organizations.
4. Evaluate ethical dimensions of organization research.
5. Evaluate sampling techniques.

DBA804 Quantitative Research Methods (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DBA801 
This course continues the themes developed in DBA803 and examines the use of parametric and non-parametric statistics in business research.  Topics include selection of appropriate statistical measures, regression analysis, and analysis of variance.  Time series models are emphasized.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze and evaluate the application of various quantitative methods.
2. Evaluate quantitative sampling methods.
3. Evaluate results and interpretation techniques.
4. Apply and evaluate research ethics to quantitative research design.
5. Conduct quantitative data analysis.

DBA805 Qualitative Research Methods (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DBA802  
This course continues the themes developed in DBA803 and examines the use of qualitative methods in business research.  The role of qualitative techniques in exploratory research is emphasized.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze, synthesize, and evaluate the applications of various qualitative methods.
2. Analyze, synthesize, and evaluate qualitative sampling methods.
3. Develop qualitative data collection instruments.
4. Analyze, synthesize, and evaluate qualitative data analysis, including coding.
5. Conduct qualitative data analysis.

DBA810 Social Responsibility and Ethics (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DBA805  
This course examines the roles of for-profit and nonprofit organizations in society.  Differences and similarities in stakeholder expectations are explored.  Ethical issues arising in each of the functional areas are examined.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze the roles of for-profit and not-for-profit institutions in meeting societal needs.
2. Discuss the roles of governments in meeting societal needs.
3. Analyze ethical dilemmas using a variety of frameworks.
4. Construct a social responsibility plan.

DBA811 Organization Development and Leadership (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DBA810 
This course applies the principles of organization development to the examination of the firm.  Topics include systems theory, organizational interventions, power and political structures, and effective resource management.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze organization life cycles through systems theory.
2. Apply and evaluate the effectiveness of organizational interventions.
3. Evaluate the role of power within the formal and informal political structures of an organizations.
4. Apply organization development theory to an existing organization.
5. Evaluate models of resource management and economic forecasting for effective fiscal planning.

DBA812 Strategic Governance (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DBA811 
This course continues the themes begun in DBA810 and DBA811 and focuses on determining the strategic direction and governance of the organization.  Emphasis is placed on development of objectives consistent with the organizational mission and desires of stakeholders, and measurement of progress towards those objectives.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Evaluate the competing values of different stakeholder groups.
2. Develop measurable objectives consistent with the organization’s mission and stakeholder desires.
3. Create a strategic governance plan.
4. Evaluate the effectiveness of governance structures.

DBA813 Topical Papers in Management (4 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DBA812 
This course examines research issues central to the management of organizations.  Emphasis is placed on managing human resources.  Topics include organization change, leadership, power, motivation and performance, conflict and negotiation, and organization culture.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Evaluate historical and foundational works in the management field.
2. Critique and synthesize major areas of current management research.
3. Develop original research questions.

DBA814 Topical Papers in Strategy (4 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DBA813 
This course examines research issues in organization strategy.  Emphasis is placed on the relationship of the firm to the external environment.  Topics include planning and strategic management, organization structure and design, implementation of vision and mission, corporate governance, and corporate social responsibility.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Critique and synthesize major areas of current strategy research.
2. Develop and refine a research question based on relevant literature.
3. Create a preliminary literature review to support a research question.

DBA815 Topical Papers in Innovation (4 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DBA814 
This course examines research issues regarding the role of innovation in the creation of new business models, improving customer experience, and opening of new markets.  Emphasis is placed on developing organization capabilities to meet market needs based on emerging trends.  Topics include theories of innovation leadership and innovation, adaptability, and the introduction of new products and services.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Critique and synthesize major areas of current research in innovation.
2. Fully develop and refine a research question based on relevant literature.
3. Create a comprehensive literature review to support a research question.

DBA816 Topical Papers in Macroeconomics (4 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DBA812 
This course examines research issues in macroeconomics.  Emphasis is placed on the results of decisions made by consumers, organizations, and governments.  Topics include unemployment, inflation, savings, investment, exchange rates, and the role of governments in markets.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Evaluate historical and foundational works in the field of macroeconomics.
2. Critique and synthesize major areas of current macroeconomics research.
3. Develop original research questions.

DBA817 Topical Papers in Economic Risk Management (4 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DBA816 
This course examines research issues in economic risk management.  Emphasis is placed on identifying and modeling risks faced by organizations.  Topics include measuring and quantifying risk, managing exchange and interest rate risks, and managing input and output price risks.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Critique and synthesize major areas of current research in economic risk management.
2. Develop and refine a research question based on relevant literature.
3. Create a preliminary literature review to support a research question.

DBA818 Topical Papers in Finance (4 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DBA817 
This course examines research issues in finance.  Emphasis is placed on decision making within an organization attempting to satisfy multiple stakeholders.  Topics include capital budgeting, management of assets and liabilities, the role of financial markets, and the institutions of the global financial system.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Critique and synthesize major areas of current research in finance.
2. Fully develop and refine a research question based on relevant literature.
3. Create a comprehensive literature review to support a research question.

DBA830 Seminar (2 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DBA815  or DBA818 
This course provides a forum for students to discuss and present research proposals relevant to their field of study.  This course is common to both tracks.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Design a research study for a topic of interest.
2. Present an original research design.
3. Critique original research designs created by other students.

DBA860 Comprehensive Exam (1 cr.)

DBA students are required to take a comprehensive examination upon completion of the coursework.  The comprehensive examination is an integrative experience requiring students to demonstrate personal mastery of concepts studied during the program and application of concepts to challenges in their areas of specialization.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Display abilities to analyze, synthesize, evaluate, and apply knowledge.
2. Display abilities to organize ideas and to communicate effectively both in writing and in speaking.
3. Display a breadth and depth of knowledge of management theories and strategies.
4. Display a breadth and depth of knowledge of economic, political, and cultural forces that shape the business environment.
5. Display abilities to research, write, and defend a meaningful doctoral dissertation.

DBA890 Dissertation (12 cr.)

Individualized sessions are conducted with the candidate’s committee chairperson to prepare the dissertation proposal and the dissertation as well as the presentation to the committee.  Upon successful defense of the dissertation proposal, the student submits the proposal to the Research Review Board for approval.  Candidates are required to register for at least one dissertation credit each semester until finished, with a minimum of 12 credits required to complete the degree.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Demonstrate satisfactory progress has been made toward completion of the dissertation.

DBA900 Dissertation Defense (0 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): Completion of the D.B.A. Dissertation
Each student is required to provide a presentation of the dissertation project to the student’s committee and the public.  The committee and the public are encouraged to ask questions of the student regarding the research project, the student’s written dissertation, points developed in the presentation, or any other related matter.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Create a written, bound dissertation that meets all requirements of the student’s committee and the DBA program.
2. Create a public presentation of the dissertation project and its results.

BIA630 Data Analysis and Business Modeling (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): MBA616 , MBA618  
This course provides an introduction to advanced concepts in predictive modeling and techniques to discover patterns in data, identify variables with the most predictive power, and develop predictive models. Students are introduced to descriptive, predictive, prescriptive analytics and optimization models. The course utilizes Microsoft Excel and Tableau to engineer and analyze business models. Students identify the proper use of and complete regression, optimization, and exponential smoothing models.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Utilize datasets to develop statistics and probability to predict future outcomes.
2. Implement appropriate models needed to analyze and critically evaluate business objectives.
3. Develop written communication skills required to report on data-intensive business situations.
4. Organize data-intensive content in a professional setting.
5. Execute advanced analytics techniques.

BIA645 Communications and Content Strategies (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): MBA616 , MBA618 , BIA630  
This course focuses on explaining complex datasets, models, and analysis to a variety of stakeholders including internal and external organizations and personnel of various disciplines. Audience analysis, effective and strategic communication are studied. Students identify and analyze problems. Professionalism in both oral and written communication is expected.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Conduct stakeholder analysis and communications results.
2. Identify business problems and create analytical approaches to solve them.
3. Write reports based on best-practice data analysis frameworks.
4. Demonstrate best practice communication techniques to visualize, explore, and act on data science findings.

BIA650 Data Mining for Decision Making (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): MBA616 , MBA618 , BIA630  
Supervised and unsupervised machine learning is explored. Discussion covers standard data mining techniques using machine learning algorithms, including correlation and association, discriminant analysis, naïve Bayes, nearest neighbor, cluster analysis, decision trees, and neural networks. Text mining is also covered.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Comprehend the mechanics of machine learning, and multiple techniques such as pattern recognition, or statistical hypothesis testing.
2. Apply the data requirements for regressions, classification, and clustering machine learning activities.
3. Implement data cleansing, normalization, and standardization techniques.
4. Evaluate model accuracy and implement improvements.
5. Apply advanced modeling techniques to a variety of business activities.

BIA661 Programming for Data Science: R Programming Language (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): MBA616 , MBA618  
This course provides an introduction to the framework for utilizing the R programming language and framework for developing advanced analytical models and statistical studies. The course features R Studio as an interface and application for performing, creating, and scripting. Students practice importing external data to study a business problem and produce a method for communicating an analysis.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Write high quality, maintainable R programs and scripts.
2. Use the R Studio software for performing complex numerical analysis tasks.
3. Articulate the value of R language for analytical modeling.
4. Develop applications that offer a functional, sophisticated interface to the user.
5. Demonstrate the concepts and logic of structured computer programming.

BIA662 Programming for Data Science: Python Programming Language (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): MBA616 , MBA618  
This course focuses on the framework for utilizing the Python programming language and structure for developing advanced analytical models and statistical studies. The course features an interface and application for performing, creating, and scripting. Students practice importing external data to study a business problem and produce a method for communicating an analysis.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Write high quality, maintainable Python programs.
2. Articulate the value of Python programming language for analytical modeling.
3. Develop applications that offer a functional sophisticated interface to the user.
4. Demonstrate the concepts and logic of structured computer programming.

BIA665 Decison Support Systems (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): Co-requisite: Should be taken in the same semester as BIA661  or BIA662  
Student learn how to build, assess, and support decision support systems such as data warehouses and data marts for data science. Students build a data warehouse. Project management strategies are discussed.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Articulate fundamental database concepts.
2. Explain the value of different types of databases used to solve business problems.
3. Communicate architecture requirements via industry standard diagrams.
4. Evaluate relational table design and pitfalls of poor design.
5. Implement an operational data store with the fundamentals of structured query language (SQL).
6. Articulate appropriate program management strategies.

BIA690 Capstone Project (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): MBA616 , MBA618 , BIA650  
This course is a culmination of all the knowledge and skills learned in this program. Students may work with a company to complete a significant project. Students may create their own individual project of significance with a proposal approved by your program director.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Articulate a business problem and apply the data analysis framework to develop a solution.
2. Apply best-practice data analytics techniques to a business problem.
3. Apply best-practice business intelligence techniques to a business problem.
4. Professionally present findings to a project sponsor or another audience or committee.
5. Implement an analytical solution according to the data analysis framework.

COM309 Professional Writing (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): English Composition or equivalent
This course provides strategies for developing a clear, concise professional writing style. A variety of writing formats are addressed. Research for professional documents, writing in an electronic environment, and collaborative writing are considered. Voice, style, audience, purpose, the writing process, and strategies for editing and revision are examined in the context of interpersonal and ethical dimensions.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Write effectively in various forms of professional writing.
2. Demonstrate writing in a professional environment.
3. Exhibit a professional voice and writing style.
4. Effectively incorporate relevant research into professional writing.
5. Understand and apply the writing process to diverse audiences and purposes.
6. Effectively incorporate elements of professional document design into print and electronic documents.
7. Employ professional revision and editing skills.
    

COM310 Oral Communications (3 cr.)

Communication skills pertinent to organizational settings form the foundation of this course.  Effective methods for design and delivery of oral communication are examined. Other topics include communication styles, effective listening, interpersonal communication skills, dynamics of small group communication and persuasive speaking, all in the context of professional workplace communications.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Demonstrate effective oral communication skills.
2. Demonstrate effective and active listening skills.
3. Recognize and adapt to differing communication styles.
4. Demonstrate skill in interpersonal communication.
5. Understand small group dynamics.
6. Demonstrate persuasive speaking techniques.
7. Effectively create and utilize graphics or other appropriate media in professional presentations.
8. Deliver organized, professional informational and persuasive presentations.
    

COM325 Prior Learning Exploration (3 cr.)

This course supports the development of the critical and analytical skills for a student to comprehensively document prior learning experiences in order to create an online portfolio to be submitted for consideration for college credit.  Emphasis is on the rigorous assessment of prior learning using applicable theories of adult learning, the researching of information as it pertains to the process, and the development of their skills in summary, reflective and expository writing, as well as the use of instructional technology.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Explain the difference between traditional and experiential learning.
2. Analyze prior experiences and synthesize their learning from those experiences.
3. Apply learning styles to explain their experiential learning.
4. Communicate through writing or other media the knowledge they have gained through experience and the impact of that learning upon them.
5. Create an e-portfolio that presents materials that document their prior learning.

COM330 Academic Writing (3 cr.)

Academic writing focuses on reflective, informational, and persuasive writing directed at an academic audience. Clear summarization of material, critical reading of texts, thoughtful and developed responses, effective secondary research, incorporation of sources into documents, appropriate document of research using APA format, and construction of persuasive and informative academic papers are addressed. The format and style of essays and research papers are explored. The course also emphasizes the development of a strong, formal academic voice and style.  The course is taught around a humanities theme, which assignments focus upon. Themes vary by semester.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Critically read and engage texts.
2. Express and explain, in a logical and developed manner, their responses to texts or ideas.
3. Develop a clear thesis statement and support it with evidence.
4. Develop a clear organization for a paper, and manage their ideas and sources within the paper.
5. Conduct secondary research using library databases and other appropriate academic research.
6. Apply APA format and documentation to a research paper.
7. Write in a formal academic style and voice.
8. Incorporate source materials effectively into their papers.
9. Identify and follow all ethical requirements of using source materials for a paper or presentation.
    

COM409 Technical Writing (3 cr.)

This course focuses on the formal demands, as well as the underlying logic, necessary to meet many complex technical writing situations. Students examine the technical writing process with an emphasis on revision and editing skills. Students explore how style, format, and the use of visuals can affect the quality of their communication. Techniques to strategically adapt technical documents to fit a specific audience and purpose are practiced. Topics include forms of technical writing, such as definitions, descriptions, manuals, reports, and formal documentation. Aspects of developing technologies and their communication needs are explored.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Distinguish between the common forms of technical writing.
2. Effectively adapt technical documents for a specific audience and purpose.
3. Articulate the interaction between written and visual communication.
4. Demonstrate a technical writing style.
5. Outline and apply the writing process.
6. Employ revision and editing skills.
7. Demonstrate an understanding of writing needs for new media modalities.

GCRT5205 Understanding Race and Culture (3 cr.)

Course participants explore their beliefs and educational experts’ perspectives on culture and race and their impact on teaching and learning. Emphasis is also placed on the systemic nature of the role of race in educational environments.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify the varying perspectives, systemic nature, and challenges connected to race and culture, including their own.
2. Understand the implications of culture as a fluid and dynamic social construct in relation to K-12 settings.
3. Compare and contrast the culture of school environments to the culture of students.
4. Research and evaluate strategies that demonstrate an understanding of culture and race.
5. Demonstrate self-reflection in a collaborative environment where participants learn from and with one another.

GCRT5206 Principles of Culturally Responsive Classrooms and Teaching (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): GCRT5205 
This course examines strategies to create an inclusive classroom environment that is responsive and relevant to students and their families and the ways in which all students learn. The course focuses on the linguistic, social, emotional, and academic systems in school communities for creating a community of learners.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify principles and strategies essential for creating a culturally responsive classroom.
2. Analyze the relationship among the lived experiences of learners in school, home, and community that impact student engagement and achievement.
3. Articulate the concepts related to a learner-centered approach to teaching and learning that incorporates cultural, linguistic, and community values.
4. Identify individual perspectives, biases, and strengths to facilitate more effective teaching.
    

GCRT5208 Designing Culturally Responsive Teaching (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): GCRT5206  
In this course, the principles of culturally responsive teaching are applied to instructional planning and assessment. Topics include determining instructional objectives, aligning principles of culturally responsive teaching to district/local standards and frameworks, and designing and/or differentiating culturally responsive assessments.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify the principles and concepts essential for rigorous and relevant instructional planning.
2. Employ strategies to develop rigorous and relevant curriculum, assessments, and learning environments that meet the needs of racially, ethnically and linguistically diverse learners.
3. Create integrated, standards-based instructional plans and assessments that document the principles of effective instructional design and culturally responsive teaching.
    

GCRT5209 Eliminating Racial Disparities in Student Achievement (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): GCRT5208 
This course addresses the specific issues that contribute to the disparities in student achievement that exist among K-12 student groups. Concepts, professional knowledge, and research-based strategies designed to address these disparities are discussed, analyzed, and applied through a case study approach.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Use data to define what disparities in student achievement are and how norming influences misconceptions.
2. Analyze situations to identify challenges and systemic conditions that lead to and/or contribute to the disparities in student achievement on standardized tests.
3. Research and evaluate solutions that eliminate disparities in student achievement.
4. Develop and modify instructional plans that integrate the essential skills, knowledge, and strategies to reduce the achievement gap.
5. Identify individual practices, biases, and strengths that perpetuate or eliminate disparities in student achievement to facilitate more effective teaching.
    

GCRT5210 Comprehensive Application of Principles (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): GCRT5209  
In this course, students complete a comprehensive performance assessment that documents and presents their individual growth, understanding, and application of the program outcomes.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Comprehensively integrate essential concepts from the program to demonstrate their cultural competence.
2. Articulate the change in one’s own perceptions and approaches since the initial program assessment.
3. Evaluate the design and implementation of a culturally responsive instructional plan and the data on change in student achievement.
4. Evaluate relevant research utilized to shape professional practice.
    

GCRT5212 Equity Leadership and Systemic Change (2 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): Due to the nature of this work, at the end of the current CRT program not all students will be at the same level of competency regarding leading in culturally responsive teaching. Therefore, this course is an invitational elective based on two measures: a) a score of Acceptance or higher on the IDI development model and b) a recommendation from the CRT faculty team. Students who are not eligible immediately following their initial program can continue to work on their cultural competence and become eligible for this course in the future.
Each participant must get a signed consent of support from his/her building principal and/or district leader. The instructors will provide this consent form electronically prior to the course start date.
In this course, students gain an understanding of systems change models and leadership frameworks, focus on building equity plans on a K-12 system level and learn strategies for equitable leadership in our K-12 schools.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Establish a clear personal equity leadership vision based on both theory and experience.
2. Understand political frameworks and change models.
3. Apply knowledge of change models and political frameworks when creating building and/or district equity action plans.
4. Develop the skills to create ally and community networks.
5. Acquire the skills to plan and carry out an equity audit.
6. Create a building and/or district equity action plan.
7. Develop and utilize leadership skills from an equity lens.

PY575 Orientation to the Profession of Counseling (1 cr.)

This course provides an orientation to the profession of counseling. The history and philosophy of the field are covered as well as the roles and settings of professional counselors. Additionally, the developmental process involved with acquiring an identity as a professional counselor is addressed.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Understand and evaluate the function and role of counselors in various professional settings.
2. Understand a process, including the stages by which counselors develop professional identity, and then apply this understanding to analyze and assess their current level of development.
3. Synthesize their awareness of personal characteristics, behaviors, values, attitudes, and abilities that affect performance as a counselor, both in general and specifically with the self.
4. Evaluate the impact of ethical considerations on the practice and conduct of a professional counselor, and be able to apply this understanding to specific situations and construct appropriate approaches to ethical dilemmas.
5. Expand their appreciation of diversity as it relates to the roles and functions of the professional counselor within various settings and apply mechanisms to support and foster continued growth.
6. Apply professional writing skills and professional verbal expression, including the accurate use of APA style.
    

PY576 Social Psychology (2 cr.)

This course is an introduction to the perspectives, research, and empirical findings of social psychology. Topics covered include self and identity, social influence, attribution theory, attitudes and attitude change, personal relationships, gender, age and race, and their application in mental health.

Upon completion of this program, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Understand the way people think, feel, and behave in social situations.
2. Understand how people influence, and are influenced by, others around them.
3. Evaluate major social psychological theories.
4. Apply these theories to the counseling process.

PY599 Professional Psychological Writing (2 cr.)

This course provides students with an introduction to professional psychological writing and includes (a) an overview of American Psychological Association (APA) format, (b) writing experiences typical of those encountered in the coursework in the counseling and psychological services program, organized around typical professional issues, (c) writing necessary for the professional practice of psychology.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Understand APA Manual and writing style.
2. Apply professional writing skills.

PY600 General Psychology (3 cr.)

This course provides an overview of the discipline of psychology including basic psychological processes, concepts, and methods. Major theories and contributors are studied. This course MAY BE REQUIRED for students with minimal undergraduate credit in psychology, but cannot count toward total number of credits needed to complete the degree.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Overview major themes encompassed by the field of psychology.
2. Take into account both the biological basis of psychology and the role of culture as pivotal in shaping basic psychological processes.
3. Examine key conceptual orientations used by psychologists to describe psychological phenomena.
    

PY604 Career Counseling: Theory and Procedures (2 cr.)

This course provides a comprehensive overview of the history and theories of career development as well as an introduction to the procedures used in career development and lifestyle counseling. Career counseling tools and techniques are examined. The interrelationships of life roles are emphasized in career and lifestyle planning.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Understand and differentiate the major theories of career and life development.
2. Apply procedures used in the field of career counseling.
3. Utilize tools and techniques commonly used in career and life development.
4. Apply career counseling theories to practice.
5. Utilize resources available to career counselors and their clients.
6. Evaluate the interrelationships among work, family, and other life roles in career and lifestyle planning.

PY605 Developmental Psychology (3 cr.)

The course examines characteristic changes in behavior and functioning in each stage of life from conception to death. Physical, cognitive, affective, and social bases of behavior are explored. The elements of professional writing are applied.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Understand the systematic nature of the patterns of growth and development in all human beings.
2. Examine the developmental tasks which the individual must master at each stage of his or her life span.
3. Describe potential developmental psychopathologies and their impact on the normative process.
4. Analyze the effects of social and cultural factors upon the individual’s development.
5. Apply principles of development to the understanding of individual behavioral reactions.
6. Analyze writings from research journals and mainstream press as they relate to the course content.
7. Apply professional writing style.

PY606 Psychophysiology (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): PY608  
This course examines the basic anatomy of the nervous system, the normal physiological functions of the nervous systems, the biological bases of behavior, behavioral disorders, and brain diseases. The course reviews current research on the role of biological basis of behavior.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Describe the basic anatomy and physiology of the nervous system.
2. Describe potential biological mechanisms of behavioral disorders and brain diseases based on an understanding of current research in the field.
3. Apply current research in the analysis of psychological disorders.
4. Evaluate reasons for diagnosis and treatment interventions.
5. Describe the biological basis of selected psychological disorders.

PY607 Theories of Personality (3 cr.)

Major theories of personality are covered as represented by the biophysical, intrapsychic, existential, and behavioral approaches.  The elements of professional writing are examined.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Understand the major personality theories and theorists.
2. Evaluate personality theories.
3. Identify and understand relevant issues in personality.
4. Analyze the basic relationships between personality theory and other aspects of counseling psychology: assessment, research, and treatment.
5. Identify a personal orientation to personality theory.
6. Apply professional writing style.
    

PY608 Psychopathology (3 cr.)

This course examines the healthy personality, maladjustment, transient disorders, anxiety states, psychosis, mood, psychosomatic, and personality disorders. The course focuses on the description of the main criteria and associated features of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) diagnostic groups. In addition, etiology, prognosis, prevention, and treatment of the disorders are considered.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Understand the classifications and categories of the major mental disorders, including the importance of incorporating a client’s cultural and educational background.
2. Apply the diagnostic criteria as defined by DSM to actual clinical cases.
3. Analyze clinical information and use diagnostic criteria to differentiate between mental disorders.
4. Evaluate the problems associated with diagnosing.
    

PY613 Counseling Theory and Technique (3 cr.)

Major approaches to counseling and psychotherapy are analyzed with emphasis on applications in the theoretical relationship. Professional psychological writing style is discussed in this course.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Understand the major theoretical approaches to counseling.
2. Acquire basic counseling skills.
3. Apply therapeutic theory to the skills and roles used in the practice of therapy.
4. Apply ethical principles to counseling.
5. Apply professional psychological writing style.
6. Articulate a personal theory of counseling and define personal style.
7. Evaluate the cultural implications of modern psychotherapy.
8. Apply an awareness and appreciation of diversity to counseling.
9. Support reasoning in application of theory and technique to diagnoses and treatment interventions.
10. Understand the significance of research evidence and community standards of practice in selecting and evaluating interventions.

PY620 Statistical Techniques and Research Methods (3 cr.)

The course provides an overview of research methods commonly used in clinical and counseling psychology. Both research methodology and statistical analysis are reviewed. The course focuses on the interpretation and understanding of research and applied statistical procedures.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Understand basic descriptive statistics and the fundamentals of hypothesis testing.
2. Apply appropriate research and statistical methods to research questions.
3. Recognize the appropriate applications of statistical findings and their limitations.
4. Evaluate research presented in counseling/clinical psychology.
5. Apply the fundamentals of research to counseling psychology.
    

PY621 Psychological Assessment (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): PY620  
This course investigates the principles and history of psychological testing, both individual and group, and assessment. Theories of measurement and selected psychological tests and inventories are covered.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Understand the assumptions, basic statistics, and issues regarding psychological testing.
2. Understand the major tests in ability, personality, and vocational assessment and how these are used to assess the client’s strengths, attributes, and problems.
3. Evaluate psychological tests on the basis of accepted assessment criteria and relevant research.
    

PY625 Ethics and Professional Issues in Psychology (3 cr.)

Ethical principles and issues underlying the professional practice of psychology are examined. Attention is focused on the Ethical Principles of the American Psychological Association (APA), the American Counseling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics, standards of practice and the related State of Minnesota statutes and rules, and current issues of concern to the field.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Understand the practice of ethics in the domain of psychology and its distinction from legal process and rules of conduct.
2. Formulate an individual ethical decision-making process.
3. Apply the professional codes of ethics and other resources in decision making.
4. Apply the Minnesota statutes and rules for psychology and counseling to clinical situations.
5. Evaluate important trends in professional issues for psychology.
6. Understand the cultural contexts of ethical dilemmas and think creatively in identifying appropriate interventions.

PY630 Advanced Research Methods (2 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): PY620  
In this course students develop skills in designing, conducting, and analyzing psychological research.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Evaluate different research methods.
2. Apply the most appropriate method to a problem or question.
3. Apply the most appropriate statistical analysis to evaluate research.
4. Evaluate research in the field.

PY631 Personality Assessment: Adolescent and Adult (2 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): PY621  
The course examines and compares various methods of personality assessment of adolescents and adults, including standardized tests, behavioral analyses, and interview techniques.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Understand the history, purpose, and current research of objective and projective personality measures.
2. Evaluate the results of personality measures to gain knowledge regarding a client’s strengths, attributes, and problems, and be able to use this information to provide reasoning and support of clinical diagnosis and treatment interventions.
3. Integrate information gained from clinical observation, interview, and personality measures and communicate this information verbally as well as in a written report.
    

PY632 Child Assessment (2 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): PY621  
The course provides a detailed overview of various methods used in assessing social, intellectual, and personality development of children, including standardized testing, behavioral ratings, observations, and interview techniques. Practical problems occurring in child assessment are examined.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Understand the definitions of personality, emotional and behavior problems, developmental stages, and contexts in describing personality characteristics of children.
2. Understand the development, administration, usage, limitations, and basic interpretation of behavior rating scales, projective instruments, self-report tests, ecological assessments, and structured observations.
3. Evaluate interpretations of each of the above instruments, independently and in combination, in assessing a child’s strengths, attributes, and problems that provide the reasoning in support of diagnosis and treatment interventions.
4. Evaluate a parent and/or teacher interview to obtain background information, current situation, and any problem areas for a non-referred child, and communicate this information in a written report.
5. Administer assessment instruments to a role-played child, including scoring, interpretation, and use in assessing the child’s strengths, attributes, and problems, and communicate the information in a written report.
6. Report assessment information to parents in role-play situations.

PY633 Personnel and Vocational Assessment (2 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): PY621 
This course includes a study of vocational and personnel assessment, including the history, theory, and current utilization of testing. The course covers testing and non-testing approaches to career assessment in a variety of settings.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze and assess a job and person and synthesize the information through interpretation and reporting.
2. Evaluate the quality and limitation of available assessment techniques.
3. Synthesize data relating to a person and environment.
4. Generate reasoned inferences about a person’s future performance on the job.
    

PY641 Marriage and Family Counseling (3 cr.)

This course covers marriage and family therapy theories, their historical and cultural contexts, and their application to family therapy process.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Apply understanding of the major theoretical/conceptual frameworks of the family field, the historical roots, key concepts, and assumptions.
2. Evaluate couple, marriage, and family dilemmas using major models of marriage and family therapy.
3. Analyze and evaluate the relationships between major conceptual frameworks and therapy models.
4. Apply understanding of diversity and multiculturalism in one’s own developing model of marriage and family therapy.
5. Utilize professional databases and other professional resources in applying, analyzing, and evaluating the literature of the field, including efficacy research.
6. Create and articulate one’s own developing model of marriage and family therapy.
7. Analyze the significance of research evidence and community standards of practice in selecting and evaluating interventions.

PY642 Group Therapy (2 cr.)

The course covers the history and practice of group therapy grounded in social psychology. Students study the basic tasks and methods of the group therapist, the design of effective therapy groups, and the therapeutic factors and problems commonly encountered in group therapy and counseling.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Understand the use of groups as an intervention with individuals, families, and communities.
2. Understand the historical development of group work.
3. Evaluate characteristics of effective group members and leaders.
4. Analyze group process, content, and dynamics.
5. Apply skills in assessment, planning, intervention, and evaluation for work with individuals, families, and small groups.
6. Apply skills in facilitating the stages of group process.
7. Incorporate professional ethics in determining appropriate group interventions and evaluating effectiveness.
8. Develop group intervention strategies using strengths of the group and its members.
9. Understand the significance of research evidence and community standards of practice in selecting and evaluating group interventions.