California State University

What you'll study

This MBA builds from a set of core management courses into electives and applied experiences focused on operations and supply chain management. Core modules typically cover accounting for managers, managerial finance, marketing strategy, organisational behaviour and managerial economics to provide broad business foundations.

• Operations and supply chain: operations management, production and service operations, inventory and procurement, logistics and distribution, supply chain strategy.
• Analytics and decision-making: business analytics, quantitative methods, forecasting, operations research and data-driven decision techniques.
• Management and strategy: strategic management, project management, quality management (including Lean and Six Sigma principles), human resource and change management.
• Electives and special topics: electives often include technology and operations integration, sustainability in supply chains, procurement strategy, and entrepreneurship in operations.
• Applied learning: many programmes include a capstone project, practicum or consulting project with a local business, and options for internships. Evening, part-time and online delivery options are commonly available to accommodate working students.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements reflect the programme's professional orientation. Applicants are normally expected to have a recognised bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Typical supporting documents include official transcripts, a current résumé or CV, and a personal statement outlining career goals and reasons for pursuing the concentration in management and operations.

• Work experience: many campuses prefer or require some professional experience; however, applicants with strong academic records may be considered for early-career admission.
• Tests: some campuses request GMAT or GRE scores while others offer waivers based on work experience, prior academic performance or professional qualifications.
• References: one or more letters of recommendation are commonly requested to assess leadership potential and professional aptitude.
• International applicants: proof of English language proficiency (such as TOEFL or IELTS) is required unless exemptions apply, along with certified transcripts and any visa-related documentation.

Career prospects

Graduates with an MBA concentration in Management and Operations are prepared for roles that require both leadership and technical understanding of organisational processes. Typical career paths include:

• Operations manager or director
• Supply chain manager, planner or analyst
• Logistics and distribution manager
• Process improvement or continuous improvement specialist (Lean/Six Sigma practitioner)
• Production manager or plant manager in manufacturing environments
• Project manager and operations consultant

Graduates often find employment across a range of sectors in California and beyond, including manufacturing, retail, e-commerce, logistics providers, healthcare systems, technology firms and government agencies.

Why study at California State University

California State University campuses offer applied, career-oriented MBA programmes with strong links to regional industry. Students benefit from practical learning approaches — such as consulting projects, internships and collaborations with local businesses — that reflect the CSU mission of workforce development and community engagement.

• Access and flexibility: the CSU system provides multiple delivery modes (full-time, part-time, evening and online) to accommodate working professionals.
• Industry connections: campuses are typically well connected to the California economy, giving students opportunities to work with manufacturing, logistics and tech employers for projects and placements.
• Applied faculty: instructors often combine academic expertise with practical industry experience, emphasising skills you can apply immediately in the workplace.
• Professional development: career services, alumni networks and workshops support career transitions and advancement in operations and management roles.

Prospective students should consult the specific CSU campus offering the MBA concentration to review exact course lists, delivery formats and application procedures.