Tennessee Technological University

What you'll study

The MBA in Management and Operations combines core graduate business coursework with a concentration of modules that address production systems, supply chain management, quality control and operations strategy. Students take MBA core subjects such as financial accounting, managerial finance, marketing strategy, organisational behaviour and business analytics before moving into operations-specific topics.

• Operations Management: process analysis, capacity planning, production systems and lean operations.
• Supply Chain and Logistics: procurement, distribution networks, inventory management and logistics strategy.
• Quality and Continuous Improvement: Six Sigma principles, statistical process control and total quality management.
• Project Management: project planning, risk management and tools for executing complex operational projects.
• Business Analytics for Operations: quantitative methods, forecasting, optimisation and data-driven decision-making.
• Strategic Management: integrating operational capabilities with overall business strategy and competitive positioning.
• Capstone or Applied Project: many students complete a practicum, consultancy project or integrative capstone that partners with real organisations to solve operational challenges.

The programme is offered in formats designed to suit a range of students, including full-time, part-time and flexible/online options. Electives enable students to tailor study to sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, transportation or technology services.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited institution. Admissions typically consider the overall academic record, professional experience and evidence of leadership potential. Additional application materials commonly include a statement of purpose, a current résumé or CV, and academic transcripts.

Some applicants may be asked to submit GMAT or GRE scores; however, waivers or alternative assessments are often available for candidates with substantial professional experience or other graduate-level credentials. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or approved institutional pathways if their prior degree was not taught in English.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Management and Operations concentration are prepared for roles that sit at the intersection of strategy and day-to-day delivery. Typical job titles include operations manager, supply chain analyst, logistics manager, production manager, quality assurance manager, project manager and process improvement consultant.

Alumni find opportunities in a broad range of sectors, including manufacturing, distribution and logistics, healthcare systems, retail, technology and professional services. The programme’s emphasis on applied projects and analytics also provides a foundation for careers in operational consulting, business process management and roles that require cross-functional leadership.

Why study at Tennessee Technological University

Tennessee Technological University’s College of Business offers an AACSB-accredited business education with a strong emphasis on applied learning and industry engagement. The university’s location in Cookeville places it within a regional manufacturing and logistics corridor, facilitating connections with employers and real-world project partners. Faculty bring a mix of academic expertise and practical industry experience, and students benefit from small class sizes, personalised advising and access to specialised facilities and centres that support manufacturing, supply chain and operations research.

The programme’s flexible delivery options cater to working professionals while maintaining rigorous academic standards, making it suitable for those seeking career advancement or a shift into operations-focused management roles.