Augustana University

What you'll study

The MBA in Management and Operations combines core MBA modules with specialised courses that emphasise process improvement, supply chain, project execution and strategic operations. The curriculum balances quantitative skills, leadership development and applied projects.

• Core business foundations: Strategic Management, Managerial Accounting and Finance, Organisational Behaviour, Marketing Management and Business Ethics.
• Operations and management electives: Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Process Improvement and Lean Principles, Service Operations, and Quality Management.
• Analytics and decision making: Data Analytics for Managers, Decision Modelling, Forecasting and Performance Metrics.
• Project and experiential learning: Applied Consulting Project or Capstone, Project Management and internships or practicum with local businesses.
• Professional development: Leadership coaching, negotiation and communication workshops, and coursework on change management.

The programme is typically offered with full-time and part-time study options, allowing completion through a concentrated sequence of courses or a modular schedule to accommodate working professionals. Assessment methods include case studies, team projects, practical capstone work and exams.

Entry requirements

• Academic qualification: A recognised bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Applicants with degrees in non-business subjects are welcome but may be asked to complete prerequisite coursework.
• Work experience: Relevant professional experience is preferred for many cohorts, particularly for part-time or executive-track students. Early-career applicants with strong academic records are also considered.
• Testing: Standardised test requirements (GMAT/GRE) may be flexible or waived depending on academic background and work experience; check the programme for current policy.
• Supporting documents: A personal statement outlining career goals, one or more professional or academic references, and a current résumé or CV are typically required.
• English language: Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency through accepted tests or other institutional exemptions.
• Interview: Some applicants may be invited to an interview as part of the selection process.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MBA in Management and Operations pursue roles that combine leadership with operational expertise across sectors such as manufacturing, services, healthcare, logistics and retail. Typical job titles include:

• Operations Manager or Director
• Supply Chain Manager / Analyst
• Project Manager
• Management Consultant (operations and process improvement)
• Business Operations Lead or General Manager
• Entrepreneur or operations-focused start-up founder

The programme’s applied capstone and internship opportunities help students build employer connections and practical experience that support progression into supervisory and strategic roles.

Why study at Augustana University

Augustana University offers a small, community-oriented learning environment where students gain close access to faculty with practical and academic expertise. The university’s liberal arts foundation encourages broad critical thinking while the MBA curriculum delivers industry-relevant skills in operations and management.

• Small class sizes: Personalised instruction and team-based learning that foster leadership and collaboration.
• Experiential focus: Emphasis on applied projects, internships and partnerships with businesses in the Sioux Falls region and beyond.
• Career support: Dedicated career services and networking opportunities tailored to graduate students seeking operational and management roles.
• Values-driven education: A campus culture that highlights ethical leadership, community engagement and social responsibility.

Overall, Augustana’s MBA in Management and Operations is suited to students who want a practical, mentor-led graduate business education with a strong emphasis on operational excellence and leadership.