Saginaw Valley State University

What you'll study

The MBA in Management and Operations combines core graduate business courses with specialised modules in operations, process improvement and organisational leadership. The curriculum typically covers foundational topics such as managerial accounting, finance for managers, strategic management and marketing, together with operations-focused subjects including operations management, supply chain management, project management and quality systems.

• Core management courses: strategic management, organisational behaviour, managerial economics, business ethics and decision-making.
• Operations and process modules: operations management, production and inventory control, process improvement methodologies (such as Lean and Six Sigma concepts), supply chain and logistics.
• Quantitative and analytical skills: data analytics for managers, operations research, forecasting and business statistics.
• Electives and special topics: project management, facilities planning, procurement and sourcing, service operations and technology in operations.
• Capstone experience: a practicum, project-based capstone or consulting project with a real organisational partner that integrates strategy, operations and financial considerations.

Delivery formats are commonly tailored for working professionals and may include evening classes, hybrid or online options and accelerated pathways. Classes emphasise applied learning, case studies and collaborative projects with regional employers.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a current résumé or CV, and a personal statement outlining professional goals and reasons for pursuing the MBA. Letters of recommendation are often requested to support professional or academic readiness.

Many programmes accept applicants with varied professional backgrounds; some applicants may be admitted with prerequisite undergraduate coursework in business fundamentals if they lack prior business study. Standardised tests such as the GMAT or GRE may be considered; however, seasoned professionals with substantial work experience or strong academic records may be eligible for a test waiver—check the university’s admissions guidance for current policy. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency if their previous education was not in English.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Management and Operations MBA pursue roles that blend leadership with operational expertise. Common career paths include operations manager, supply chain manager, production manager, logistics coordinator, process improvement specialist, project manager and operations analyst. The degree also prepares graduates for roles in plant management, procurement and vendor management, and management consulting with an operations focus.

Alumni work across sectors prominent in the region and beyond, including manufacturing, distribution and logistics, healthcare operations, professional services and public-sector organisations. The programme’s emphasis on applied projects and employer engagement supports transition into supervisory and mid-senior management positions.

Why study at Saginaw Valley State University

Saginaw Valley State University offers a personalised learning environment with relatively small class sizes and accessible faculty who combine academic credentials with practical industry experience. The university’s location in mid-Michigan provides strong connections to regional manufacturing, logistics and healthcare employers, enabling student projects, internships and networking opportunities with organisations across the Great Lakes economy.

The MBA programme is structured for working professionals, offering flexible scheduling and practicum-based learning that emphasises real-world problem solving. Students benefit from collaborative classroom experiences, applied capstone projects and career services that focus on employer engagement and professional development in operations and management disciplines.