Chapman University

What you'll study

The Management and Operations MBA builds on core MBA disciplines—finance, marketing, strategy and leadership—while emphasising the tools and methods used to design, run and improve organisational systems. Typical topics include operations management, supply chain management, project management, process improvement (Lean/Six Sigma principles), business analytics and decision modelling. Students also study organisational behaviour, strategic management and managerial accounting to ensure operational choices align with broader business goals.

• Core MBA modules: financial accounting, managerial economics, marketing strategy, organisational behaviour, corporate strategy
• Operations & management modules: operations management, supply chain strategy, quality management, production and service operations, project management
• Analytical skills: business analytics, data-driven decision-making, forecasting and optimisation
• Applied learning: capstone consulting projects, internships or practicum assignments with industry partners
• Electives and special topics: procurement, logistics, technology in operations, sustainability in supply chains

Programme delivery is typically a mix of case studies, team-based projects, simulations and experiential assignments; many students work on real client projects or industry-sponsored challenges as part of the curriculum.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a recognised undergraduate degree and evidence of academic readiness for graduate study. Chapman looks for candidates with quantitative aptitude and professional experience; typical applicants have several years of work experience, though the programme can also suit recent graduates with strong academic records and relevant internships.

• Academic transcripts: undergraduate degree from an accredited institution
• Professional experience: relevant work history is preferred; the programme admits both early-career and experienced applicants
• Standardised tests: GMAT or GRE requirements vary by intake and applicant profile; consult the school for current policy
• Supporting materials: resume/CV, personal statement or essays, and one or more professional or academic references; interviews are used in some admissions decisions
• International applicants: proof of English language proficiency where applicable and demonstration of equivalent academic credentials

Career prospects

Graduates of a Management and Operations MBA pursue roles that focus on improving organisational performance, delivering projects and managing end-to-end supply chains. Common career paths include operations manager, supply chain manager, logistics and distribution manager, process improvement specialist, operations analyst, project manager and management consultant. Employers span manufacturing, retail, logistics and distribution, technology firms, healthcare systems and professional services.

The programme emphasises transferable leadership and analytical skills—graduates frequently move into cross-functional leadership roles overseeing production, sourcing, customer fulfilment and continuous improvement initiatives.

Why study at Chapman University

Chapman’s Argyros School of Business and Economics offers a personalised learning environment with relatively small class sizes and close faculty interaction. The school emphasises experiential education: students benefit from applied consulting projects, internships and partnerships with regional businesses in Southern California. Career services provide support in networking, interview preparation and employer engagement, while connections to a dynamic local economy give practical exposure to logistics, manufacturing and service-sector employers.

Students also gain access to campus resources that support entrepreneurship and leadership development, alongside faculty who combine academic research with professional experience in operations and supply chain management. These features make Chapman a practical choice for students wanting an MBA that links management theory with operational practice.