The MBA in Operations Management at North American University (NAU) is a professionally focused master's programme designed to develop managerial and technical skills for overseeing production, supply chains and service operations. It suits early- to mid-career professionals and recent graduates aiming for leadership roles that require process optimisation, data-driven decision making and cross-functional coordination.
What you'll study
This MBA combines core graduate-level business courses with specialised operations management modules. You will study the principles and practices that drive efficient, resilient operations across manufacturing and service sectors, emphasising analytical tools, process improvement and strategic alignment with business goals.
- Core MBA subjects: managerial economics, corporate finance, marketing management, organisational behaviour, strategic management and business ethics.
- Operations specialisms: operations strategy, production and service operations management, supply chain and logistics management, procurement and supplier relationship management.
- Analytical and improvement tools: operations research and decision analysis, forecasting and inventory control, process modelling, Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, quality management systems.
- Technology and information systems: enterprise resource planning (ERP) concepts, operations analytics, data visualisation and the use of technology in logistics and manufacturing (e.g. IoT, automation basics).
- Applied learning: capstone project or practicum with an operations focus, case studies, simulations and opportunities for internships or industry projects with Houston-area firms.
- Electives and professional development: project management, supply chain finance, sustainable operations and risk management; professional workshops on leadership, negotiation and consulting skills.
Entry requirements
Applicants should hold an accredited bachelor's degree or equivalent. Relevant professional experience is valuable and often strengthens an application, particularly for applicants without a specialised undergraduate background in business.
- A completed undergraduate degree from an accredited institution. A degree in business, engineering, economics, or a related discipline is typical but not mandatory.
- Academic transcripts and a curriculum vitae demonstrating professional experience where applicable.
- Statement of purpose outlining career goals and reasons for pursuing an operations-focused MBA.
- Letters of recommendation, usually one to two, from academic or professional referees.
- Standardised tests (GMAT/GRE) may be requested but many applicants with relevant work experience or strong academic records can apply for a waiver—check NAU admissions guidance.
- For non-native English speakers, proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS or equivalent) is required unless exempted by prior study in English.
Career prospects
Graduates of the MBA in Operations Management go on to roles that require both strategic oversight and hands-on operational expertise. The programme prepares you for leadership positions across sectors including manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, retail and professional services.
- Operations Manager or Director
- Supply Chain Manager / Logistics Manager
- Production or Plant Manager
- Quality Assurance/Continuous Improvement Manager
- Procurement and Sourcing Manager
- Operations Analyst, Business Process Consultant or Management Consultant
- Project Manager overseeing implementation of operations initiatives
- Entrepreneur or operations lead in start-ups and small businesses
Why study at North American University (NAU)
NAU offers a personalised learning environment with small class sizes and direct access to faculty who combine academic backgrounds with industry experience. Located in the Houston region, the university benefits from proximity to a diverse and active business community—energy, manufacturing, healthcare and logistics sectors offer practical engagement opportunities.
- Practical, career-oriented curriculum with applied projects and internship pathways.
- Flexible delivery options to suit working professionals, including evening and hybrid classes where available.
- Dedicated career services and employer engagement that help connect students with internships and post-graduate roles.
- Diverse international student body providing global perspectives on supply chain and operations challenges.
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