Syracuse University

What you'll study

This programme blends the core functional disciplines of an MBA with targeted coursework and practicum in operations and management. You will study foundational business topics such as financial accounting, managerial finance, marketing strategy and organisational behaviour alongside specialist subjects including operations management, supply chain design, process improvement, production planning and project management.

• Core MBA courses: managerial economics, accounting for managers, corporate finance, marketing strategy, business analytics and strategy.
• Operations and management modules: operations strategy, service and manufacturing operations, supply chain management, inventory and logistics, quality management and lean/six-sigma concepts.
• Analytical and technology skills: data-driven decision making, operations modelling, forecasting and simulation, enterprise resource planning and technology-enabled supply chain tools.
• Capstone and experiential learning: team-based consulting projects, practicum with corporate partners, case studies and a strategic operations capstone that integrates functional areas.
• Electives and concentrations: students can choose electives in areas such as procurement, sustainability in operations, global supply chains, entrepreneurship or digital transformation to tailor the degree to career goals.

Delivery formats typically include full-time, part-time and flexible options; courses emphasise applied group work, industry projects and access to Whitman School research centres and labs.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Admissions considers prior academic performance, professional experience, leadership potential and fit with the programme. Typical application materials include:

• Official academic transcripts from post-secondary institutions
• A current résumé or CV detailing professional experience
• Personal statement or essays describing career goals and motivation
• Letters of recommendation (usually one to three)
• Standardised test scores where required — the programme accepts GMAT or GRE and may offer waivers for qualified applicants or those with substantial professional experience
• Proof of English language proficiency (such as TOEFL or IELTS) for applicants whose first language is not English

Work experience is beneficial and can strengthen an application, particularly for candidates applying to part-time or executive formats, but recent graduates with strong quantitative preparation and leadership potential are also considered.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for operational leadership and management roles across industries. Common career paths include:

• Operations manager, manufacturing or service operations
• Supply chain analyst or supply chain manager
• Logistics and distribution manager
• Project manager or programme manager overseeing process improvement initiatives
• Consultant specialising in operations, supply chain or process redesign
• Roles in procurement, demand planning, inventory control and product operations

Whitman’s career services, employer partnerships and alumni network support internships, recruiting and transitions into leadership roles in sectors such as manufacturing, retail, logistics, technology, healthcare and consulting.

Why study at Syracuse University

Syracuse University’s Whitman School of Management combines a comprehensive business curriculum with strong ties to industry and applied learning opportunities. Students benefit from small cohort sizes, faculty research in operations and supply chain, and specialised centres that connect classroom learning to real-world organisational problems.

• Experiential focus: company-sponsored projects, consulting practicum and case competitions give students hands-on operational experience.
• Industry connections: partnerships with regional and national employers facilitate internships, mentoring and recruitment.
• Career support: dedicated career services, on-campus recruiting and an active alumni network help graduates move into operations and management roles.
• Flexible learning pathways: multiple delivery options accommodate working professionals as well as full-time students.

Overall, the programme is well suited to students seeking a rigorous, applied MBA with a clear pathway into operations, supply chain and management roles in a wide range of organisational contexts.