Major in Strategic Management and Organization [Business]

Description of Field

In today’s business environment it is crucially important that those in management positions develop the analytical and interpersonal skills necessary to meet the increasing challenge of globalization and rapid change. The major is designed for students interested in learning how effective managers think and act in a range of enterprises: public, not-for-profit, and voluntary as well as for profit, business enterprises. It offers students the diagnostic skills that enable them to understand, analyze and solve problems in organizations, as well as the opportunity to develop leadership, social and interpersonal skills. Areas covered include strategically managing the team environment; the development of a quality committed workforce; and the management of workplace and cultural diversity. The major is designed to provide a broad critical reflection on the complexity of issues facing those managing organizations, not simple “fix-it” solutions.

A minor in management and organization is a useful complement to other specialist areas such as accountancy, finance or marketing. A successful manager will need to be aware of how their decisions impact on organizations and people working with them. A minor will give students the necessary organizational background to avoid taking decisions in isolation that could lead to operational and implementation problems that thwart important innovation initiatives.

Career Opportunities

Employers are increasingly seeking students with a broad understanding of organizations that will prepare them for an eventual position of significant leadership in an organization. The major in management and organization is a good career choice for any student who sees their future in a general management/leadership position or in the growing field of management consultancy specializing in, for example, change management consulting, business planning consultant or management training. As management is essential to the effective functioning of any organization, career opportunities are available for managers in all sectors of the economy. The flexibility of the major allows students to tailor courses to meet their personal design.

Sequence of Courses

Minors

1. Students with a declared major in Strategic Management and Organization may choose to do a minor in any subject area of Business. See Minors for Business Students  . Minors are not required.
2. Students with a declared major in another area may complete a minor in Strategic Management and Organization by fulfilling the requirements of Minors for Business Students  . SMO 321  and SMO 441  are strongly recommended.