Fairleigh Dickinson University

What you'll study

The MBA in Management and Operations combines core MBA subjects with specialised courses that address the planning, control and improvement of operational processes. The programme typically covers managerial foundations alongside modules that develop analytical and operational capability.

• Core management subjects: strategic management, leadership and organisational behaviour, managerial finance and marketing for managers to ensure a broad management foundation.
• Operations and supply chain: operations management, supply chain management, logistics and distribution, production planning and inventory control.
• Quantitative and analytical tools: business analytics, operations research, statistics for decision making, process modelling and simulation.
• Quality and project management: total quality management, Six Sigma and lean principles, project planning and controls.
• Electives and special topics: courses addressing service operations, procurement, sustainable operations, technology and innovation in operations, and industry-specific operations electives.
• Capstone or practicum: a strategic capstone project, consulting practicum or applied research project that integrates functional knowledge and tackles a real operational problem, often in partnership with an organisation.

Delivery formats are often flexible and may include evening or weekend classes and blended learning to accommodate working professionals. Students can expect case studies, team projects, simulations and applied assignments that emphasise problem solving and measurable operational improvements.

Entry requirements

Applicants are generally expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited institution. Admissions committees consider academic record, professional experience, letters of recommendation and a personal statement outlining career goals and reasons for pursuing the MBA.

• Professional experience: the programme welcomes both recent graduates and experienced professionals; some work experience is advantageous for admission and for contributing to class discussion.
• Tests: standardised tests such as the GMAT or GRE may be optional for some applicants; check with the admissions office about current testing policies.
• English language proficiency: applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or approved alternatives, unless they qualify for a waiver.
• Additional materials: a CV/resume, academic transcripts and one or more letters of recommendation are normally required. Applicants may be invited to an interview as part of the assessment process.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MBA in Management and Operations move into a variety of operational and leadership roles across manufacturing, retail, logistics, healthcare, professional services and public sector organisations. Typical job titles include:

• Operations Manager / Director
• Supply Chain Manager or Planner
• Logistics and Distribution Manager
• Project Manager or Programme Manager
• Operations Analyst / Business Analyst
• Quality Manager / Continuous Improvement Manager
• Management or strategy consultant specialising in operations

The programme also prepares graduates for broader senior management roles where a strong understanding of how operational capabilities support strategy is valued. FDU’s career services, employer events and alumni network support job search, internships and professional development.

Why study at Fairleigh Dickinson University

Fairleigh Dickinson University offers a campus environment that emphasises applied learning, small class sizes and close interaction with faculty. The university’s proximity to major business centres provides access to industry speakers, internships and employer networks, which is particularly useful for students focused on operations and supply chain careers.

• Practical, career-oriented curriculum: courses emphasise real-world application through projects, case studies and industry partnerships.
• Flexible scheduling: options for evening, weekend or blended study support working professionals balancing study with employment.
• Support services: dedicated career services, academic advising and opportunities for experiential learning help students transition to new roles or advance within their organisations.
• Global perspective: the programme integrates contemporary topics such as global supply chains, sustainability and technology, preparing graduates to operate in international environments.

Together these features make Fairleigh Dickinson University’s MBA in Management and Operations a practical choice for students aiming to build leadership capability and operational expertise that are in demand across sectors.