Joy Nolan

"I went back to school in order to make a career change. I found exactly what I needed at Plymouth State University. I'm getting my Master in Education Counseling/Human Relations with a post baccalaureate certificate in Organizational Communications. Having my M.Ed. with an MBA concentration will help to make me more marketable."

Approved Electives & Course Descriptions

• Business course descriptions
• Economics course descriptions
• For a full list of graduate course descriptions, go to our course descriptions page.

Business course descriptions

BU 5050 Business Graduate Internship - 3 credits
A supervised internship in business for graduate students. The purpose is to gain meaningful work experience and apply knowledge learned in previous course work to the on-the-job situation. The internship placement must provide a new learning experience for the student. A work journal, reading in the field and a report on work experience are required. Permission of Internship coordinator, department chair and Program coordinator of Graduate Studies in Business. Prerequisite: nine graduate credits in business.

BU 5110 Managing Organizational Behavior - 3 credits
A review of theory and research findings in the field of organizational behavior, with emphasis on applications by practicing managers. Topics to be covered include perception, motivation, leadership, communication, group dynamics, conflict management and organization theory. Pedagogical techniques include case analysis, presentations, role plays and other experiential activities. Prerequisite: Behavioral Science competency.

BU 5115 Creating Organizational Health - 3 credits
The course is designed as an intensive introduction to the theories, methods and tools for building wellness concepts into the strategic planning process of organizations. The class will define the future of wellness and develop holistic principles leading to organizational health. At the completion of the course students will have an understanding of ways to institute a new wellness paradigm into organizational design.

BU 5120 Financial Analysis and Decision Making - 3 credits
A complete corporate financial management course. Content covers the classic areas of valuation, capital structure and budgeting as well as more specialized financial topics. Online version incorporates online course materials and exercises.

BU 5160 Seminar in Managing Human Resources - 3 credits
A review of contemporary techniques, practices and research results in the area of human resource management, with emphasis on the perspective of the practicing manager. Topics to be covered include recruitment, selection, training and development, performance appraisal, compensation, labor relations and collective bargaining, occupational safety and health and employee rights within the context of federal and state legal regulation. The case method is used extensively. The goal is to assist the line or staff manager in effective utilization and implementation of human resource policies and practices.

BU 5165 Training and Development - 3 credits
This course provides the application of learning theories and instructional development to the education and training of employees. Topics include instructional design, strategy, technology and the implementation, evaluation and management of training in an organizational environment.

BU 5190 Accounting for Managers - 3 credits
Budgetary accounting and cost accounting including profit planning and control systems, budget process, cost systems and their managerial applications. Prerequisite: demonstration of competency in Financial Accounting.

BU 5210 Strategies for Cross-Functional Analysis - 3 credits
Today's business climate demands managers who can make decisions involving the best use of an organization's scarce resources under conditions that change rapidly. This course demonstrates the power of problem-solving insights and uses a cross-functional approach. Topics to be covered include strategic pricing using game theory, forecasting techniques and demand estimation, cost analysis, linear programming and optimization under various market structures. Prerequisites: Macroeconomics, Microeconomics and Statistics competencies or permission of the instructor.

BU 5220 The Legal Environment of Business - 3 credits
A basic understanding of legal problems is expanded, analytical ability is developed and an awareness of the presence of legal problems that surround the businessperson is explored. Freedom of choice, taxation, stockholder status, acquisitions and divisions, antitrust, employment, administrative law and bankruptcy are covered as time allows.

BU 5225 Current Issues in Employment Law - 3 credits
A study of legal issues that affect employers and employees in the modern American workplace, including wage/hour regulation, employment discrimination, sexual harassment, workers' compensation, disabled employee protection, covenants not to compete, whistleblowers' protection and union representation.

BU 5230 Management of Organizational Changes - 3 credits
A study of the nature and scope of organizational change and development, from the perspective of the practicing manager. Consideration is given to the need for and role of consultants in this process, be they internal or external to the organization. Procedures to be discussed include survey research, job enrichment, management by objectives, team building and program evaluation. The case method will be used. Emphasis is on the role of the practicing manager in the control and facilitation of organizational change.

BU 5240 Seminar in Organizational Communication - 3 credits
An in-depth study of the variables affecting the transmission of internal and external organizational communication. While focusing on audience analysis, message transmission and business/media relations, critical skills such as listening, speaking, writing analysis and an understanding of nonverbal, visual and mass communication will be developed. Practical topics will include: organizational systems, conference organization, metacommunications, public relations, improved listening skills and presentational speaking.

BU 5400 Survey of Issues in Health Care Administration - 3 credits
This course serves as the introduction to the graduate Healthcare Certificate program. In this course students will be able to recognize and discuss the basic components of the United States healthcare system by learning various aspects of the industry, global alternatives and how a multitude of internal and external factors impact and shape our delivery system. Topics will be supported by information in text books, articles and Web sites. Students will use this material in preparation for written essays, presentations and classroom discussions.

BU 5410 Human Resources in Health Care Administration - 3 credits
This course will address managing organizational behavior issues and techniques with a specific focus on human resource management issues unique to the healthcare industry.

BU 5420 Healthcare Law and Ethics - 3 credits
This course is specifically designed for graduate students enrolled in the proposed Healthcare Administration Certificate Program and/or an MBA with a health administration specialty. This course will focus on the principles and theories of law as it relates to health care delivery; healthcare management and administration; examination of the applications of laws in relation to healthcare liability prevention and risks facing administrators, managers and practitioners.

BU 5430 Healthcare Administration and Financial Management - 3 credits
This course presents an in-depth review of the financial management of healthcare organizations. This includes but is not limited to budget formulation process specific to healthcare delivery systems, funding sources and payment methodology, managing working capital and capital budgeting, the unique characteristics of non-profit organizations, and financial analysis of such organizations. Students will also do case study analysis in the previously mentioned topics.

BU 5460 Graduate Money and Banking - 3 credits
Designed to provide students with a working knowledge of the roles of commercial and central banking in the U.S. economy. Topics of special interest include (1) monetary policy, including interaction effects with fiscal policy; (2) analysis of the role of monetary factors in our recent inflation-proof economy; and (3) the significance to the domestic economy of international financial developments, particularly the role of the "Eurodollar". Of special interest is the recent inability of the banking system to compete effectively for funds with other financial intermediaries (especially money market mutual funds). Prerequisite: Macroeconomics competency or permission of the instructor.

BU 5490 Capstone: Health Care Topics - 3 credits
This course is a seminar-style presentation of current healthcare topics. This is an integrative course that incorporates all previous coursework into a cohesive body of knowledge. The topics include but are not limited to healthcare policy, quality initiatives, marketing in healthcare, current issues within Medicare and Medicaid, strategic decision making and public health.

BU 5500 Small Business Problems and Strategy: SBI Part I - 3 credits
Student teams examine, research and present case findings and recommendations orally and in writing. Constant attention is given to those problems unique to small businesses. Students will go out into the field with the instructor as a team. Students will act as business consultants to a business in the area under the Small Business Institute Program® at Plymouth State University.

BU 5501 Small Business Analysis: SBI Part II - 3 credits
Required for a six-credit Small Business Institute® project that includes primary and secondary research, complex financial analysis and a comprehensive plan including specific recommendations for improvements in business operations. Final report preparation of findings and recommendations to the small business client are requirements of this course.

BU 5510 Operations Management - 3 credits
Examination of the nature and structure of decision-making in the midst of uncertainty. Formal techniques for measurement of risks and rewards are applied to case studies based chiefly on production systems. Concludes with a survey of current techniques for operations analysis, planning and control.

BU 5520 Negotiating, Collaborating and Leading in Today's World - 3 credits
This course examines the dynamics, constraints and skills needed in negotiation, collaboration and leadership. It focuses equally on using negotiation in business planning and in dispute resolution. Theories of negotiation are examined through current literature and specific techniques are taught through simulated exercises. The course is drawn from the fields of business, law, psychology, administration and communication. Also offered as AD 5520.

BU 5550 Investment Management - 3 credits
Combines modern financial theory with the real world of finance. The objective is to provide concepts and tools for practical investment analysis and portfolio management. Topics include security markets, tax environment, risk, fixed-income securities, common stock valuation, fundamental and technical analysis, concentrations, mutual funds, commodity and financial futures, portfolio theory. Emphasis is on successful strategies. Written case analysis. Subscription to Wall Street Journal.

BU 5580 Real Estate Entrepreneurship - 3 credits
Various methods of entry into this industry are examined. The roles and methods of brokers, developers, investors, financiers, appraisers and managers are analyzed using financial models, economics and law. The goal of the course is to gain a working knowledge that may be applied by the individual or by an organization.

BU 5590 Budgeting and Fund Accounting - 3 credits
This course provides an understanding of budgeting and fund accounting concepts appropriate for governmental entities, not-for-profits, school systems, and colleges and universities. The course objective is to enable students to understand different ways of constructing accounting information to be used by the various entities for reporting, planning and control. The use of accounting in decisionmaking will be the focus of attention.

BU 5600 Federal Taxes and Business Decisions - 3 credits
Tax laws and their effect on management planning and decision-making, as well as on personal financial transactions are of interest to managers and accountants. Representative topics include tax aspects of selecting a business form; tax factors in acquiring, using and disposing of land, buildings, equipment; capital gains and losses; nontaxable transactions; individual income tax; family tax planning; common tax traps. Prerequisite: Financial Accounting competency or permission of the instructor.

BU 5610 Contemporary Accounting and the Business Environment - 3 credits
A study of contemporary accounting issues as they influence the business manager and the public. The interaction of accounting and the total business environment is discussed. Some areas that may be covered include segment reporting, social responsibility accounting, the SEc today, current value accounting, the impact of governmental regulations on various industries, management advisory services by accounting firms, current cost issues in our society. Written research reports and oral reports are required from all students.

BU 5620 Auditing Perspectives - 3 credits
Theory and procedures underlying auditors' responsibilities in examining and reporting on financial statements of a business enterprise are discussed including professional ethics, auditing standards, reports, internal control and the selection, scope and application of auditing procedures.

BU 5630 Policy Topics - 3 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern will be the focus of this course and will be taught by a specialist within the field being studied. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated.

BU 5680 Applications in Marketing Research - 3 credits
A study of 'decisional research' in business and its importance to management. As an integral part of learning the marketing research process, graduate students will be involved in actual, in-the-field marketing research process, from problem identification through final presentation of findings and recommendations.

BU 5690 Behavioral Perspectives in Marketing - 3 credits
This course provides an understanding of consumer behavior and its relationship to marketing management. Applications of concepts from psychology, social psychology, cultural anthropology, sociology and economics will be emphasized while interpreting current studies in consumer research and illustrating their marketing implications. Areas of concentration include: image management, brand loyalty, product positioning, attitude measurement, market segmentation and the consumer decision-making process. An applied orientation of behavioral science to marketing management. Prerequisite: BU 5700.

BU 5700 Marketing Techniques - 3 credits
The objective of this course is to help students develop a broad understanding of marketing techniques, strategies and tactics employed by the marketing manager. This course will cover the use of the 'marketing mix' elements as they pertain to the planning and implementation of the marketing plan.

BU 5720 Seminar in Executive Management - 3 credits
From a decision-maker's point of view, students will participate in a seminar involving middle- and upper-level managerial responsibilities, as well as discussions concerning "state of the art" methodologies appropriate to all levels of management. Case studies and group projects will be combined with informal lectures and discussions involving such areas as strategic planning, action planning techniques, policy making, managerial ethics, decision-making methods, control systems and the integration of all resources for optimum performance. Prerequisite: Basic Management core courses (BU 5190, BU 5120 and BU 5210) and/or commensurate work experience.

BU 5730 Current Issues in Marketing - 3 credits
This course is designed to explore the contemporary issues and challenges impacting the future of marketing management. Developments in technology, communications, demographics, consumerism, packaging, marketing information systems and non-product marketing, are some of the variables to be examined in terms of their current and future influence on the functions of the marketing manager. All other required marketing courses should be completed before entering this course.

BU 5750 Master's Research Project - 6 credits
MBA candidates may elect to do some investigation relating to an applied or theoretical problem in their area of interest. Normally it is expected that the enrollment for this course will cover two terms. The forms for the development and approval of this project are available in the Graduate Studies office. One copy of the final report will be provided to each advisor and the original copy will be submitted to the department chair. There will be an oral presentation of the Master's Research Project results to the professor and readers prior to April of the year of graduation. Requirements are expected to be completed by May in the year of graduation.

BU 5810 Seminar in Corporate Public Relations - 3 credits
This seminar will examine public relations principles, practices and theory. Specific topics include: 1) models of communication, 2) decision making, 3) methods of persuasion, 4) communication channels, 5) targeting audiences and 6) mass communication. Particular emphasis will be placed on business-media relations and crises communication.

BU 5820 Women and Leaders - 3 credits
This course challenges women to consider the cultures, climates and contexts that limit and support their capacities as leaders. Students will explore personal leadership styles, characteristics of effective leaders and strategies for developing themselves as leaders.

BU 5850 New Ventures and Entrepreneurship - 3 credits
The course focuses on business start-ups, providing an intensive introduction to business planning from the defining of a "primary vision" through market size assessment and strategic operations planning, to the financing, staffing and implementation of the new venture. Course includes readings on entrepreneurship, case studies of both small and large examples of successful new ventures and student fieldwork. Software available to help business planning will be introduced for hands-on use. Students will each prepare a formal business plan for new ventures.

BU 5910 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
Enrichment of the background of students in business through the pursuit of a special topic pertinent to their interests and abilities is offered through independent study opportunities. This is an opportunity for an in-depth study of a problem in the business field. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair, Program coordinator and Associate Vice President is required.

Economics course descriptions

EC 5460 Graduate Money and Banking - 3 credits
Designed to provide students with a working knowledge of the roles of commercial and central banking in the U.S. economy. Topics of special interest include (1) monetary policy, including interaction effects with fiscal policy; (2) analysis of the role of monetary factors in our recent inflation-proof economy; and (3) the significance to the domestic economy of international financial developments, particularly the role of the "Eurodollar". Of special interest is the recent inability of the banking system to compete effectively for funds with other financial intermediaries (especially money market mutual funds). Prerequisite: Macroeconomics competency or permission of the instructor.

EC 5610 Economic Issues in International Finance - 3 credits
The study of international finance (international monetary relations) covers financial policies, international loans, balance of payments accounting, exchange rates, reserve and payments currencies, and international liquidity. Of particular interest is the impact of the U.S. economy of international financial developments. Balance of payments adjustment under fixed and flexible exchange rates and under the gold standard will be considered in detail. Prerequisite: Macroeconomics and Microeconomics competencies or permission of the instructor.

EC 5615 Global Economics - 3 credits
The national economies today are all deeply embedded in an interactive global network with profound implications for both economic theory and economic policy. In this course, students will engage in theoretical as well as empirical studies of international economic relationships.

EC 5910 Independent Study in Economics - 1-3 credits
Enrichment of the background of students in business through the pursuit of a special topic pertinent to their interests and abilities. A chance for an in-depth study of a problem in the field of business. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair, Program coordinator of Graduate Studies in Business and the Associate Vice President is required.