Chatham University

What you'll study

The programme builds foundational business knowledge and specialised skills in management and operations through a mix of core courses, electives and practicum experiences. Students progress from introductory courses to upper-level, application‑focused modules and a culminating capstone or internship.

• Core business foundations: financial and managerial accounting, principles of finance, business law and ethics, micro- and macroeconomics, marketing fundamentals.
• Management and organisational studies: organisational behaviour, leadership and team dynamics, human resource management, strategic management.
• Operations and analytics: operations management, supply chain and logistics, quality management, process improvement (e.g. Lean and Six Sigma principles), business analytics and decision support.
• Methodology and skills: quantitative methods for business, project management, information systems for managers, data visualisation and applied statistics.
• Experiential learning: internships, practicum projects with local organisations, case studies, simulations and a senior capstone that integrates management and operations topics.
• Electives and concentrations: options typically allow focus in areas such as supply chain management, entrepreneurship, sustainability in business or international business, together with opportunities for study abroad or cross‑disciplinary electives.

Entry requirements

Admissions consider academic preparation, readiness for college-level work and potential for success in a small, interactive learning environment. Typical expectations include a completed secondary school qualification or equivalent and submission of academic transcripts.

• Academic record: satisfactory secondary school diploma or equivalent with evidence of achievement in mathematics; specific grade expectations vary and will be assessed in context.
• Supporting materials: personal statement or essay, and at least one letter of recommendation. Portfolios are not required for this programme.
• Standardised tests: standardised test scores (SAT/ACT) may be optional; applicants should check the current policy and submit scores if they strengthen the application.
• International applicants: proof of English language proficiency is required if English is not the applicant's first language (for example TOEFL, IELTS or approved alternatives), and international academic credentials should be submitted for evaluation.
• Transfer students and advanced credit: transfer applicants with college coursework may receive credit subject to evaluation; placement and advanced standing are determined by transcript review and course equivalency.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for operational and managerial roles across a wide range of industries. The degree balances strategic thinking with practical skills that employers value for improving efficiency and leading teams.

• Operations manager, production supervisor or operations coordinator in manufacturing, healthcare, retail or services
• Supply chain analyst, logistics planner or procurement specialist
• Project manager or programme coordinator in corporate, non‑profit or public sectors
• Business analyst or management consultant focusing on process improvement and organisational performance
• Entrepreneur or business owner taking a data‑driven approach to operations
• Further study options such as specialised master’s degrees in business, supply chain, project management or an MBA

Why study at Chatham University

Chatham offers a personalised liberal arts environment combined with career-focused business education. Small class sizes and close faculty mentoring enable active learning and opportunities to apply concepts in real settings.

• Experiential emphasis: strong connections with local industry and community partners provide internships, practicum placements and live projects that reinforce classroom learning.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: students can combine business studies with sustainability, arts, sciences or health programmes to tailor their skillset to emerging fields.
• Support and career development: dedicated advising and career services help with internship placement, resume and interview preparation, and employer networking.
• Inclusive campus community: Chatham’s collaborative campus culture puts an emphasis on leadership development and supports diverse students pursuing careers in business and management.