Skip to main content
A degree in Business Management perfect choice for working adults who are ready to move up in their careers.

Career Area: Business & Management
Program: Business Management
Campus(es): Winona/Red Wing/Online

Major Details

The Business Management program at Minnesota State College Southeast is perfect for working adults who are new to management or are interested in moving up in management status. Best of all, this program is available online, so you can work your classes into your busy schedule!

Our unique accelerated learning program enables you to complete an Associate of Applied Science degree in approximately 3 years. Accelerated learning uses activities that involve your senses in an intensive, yet fun environment. You will absorb more information in a shorter time while enjoying the support of fellow students.

Learning takes place with a group of students who have similar backgrounds and training needs. You and the group will move rapidly through the required courses, enabling you to learn from one another.

Additional credentials

There are 3 certificates within the Business Management program at Minnesota State College Southeast. You can gain any or all of these credentials along the way to working on your A.A.S. degree – enhancing your value in the workplace at each stage of your education.

Are you already employed in the work force? Your employer will benefit from your participation in Southeast's Business Management program. Company projects may be completed as class assignments and the focus is on building the specific skills that are needed in your work situation.

Apply now for admission to Minnesota State College Southeast


Cluster/Pathway
Career Field: Business Management & Administration
Cluster: Business Management & Administration
Pathway: General Management
Recommended high school classes and basic job/program skills

Download the Program Plan

Courses

1) Must complete a minimum of 3 different MnTC goals in Liberal Arts and Sciences.

2) 1100 or higher Liberal Arts and Sciences courses required unless specified.


GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Goal 4: Mathematics
Choose one Goal 4 course
3 cr
3 cr
 
15 crs
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
Technical electives (see advisor for approved electives)
Choose one or more Technical electives.
6 cr
ADMS1419
Business Communications
This course provides the study and practice necessary to develop competence in using language effectively and appropriately in business communications. Emphasis is placed on providing a practical grasp of the principles of English usage and style that build the framework for effective business communication. This course develops basic writing techniques for use in composing memos, e-mail messages, and letters. (Prerequisite: Writing College Level Placement or ENGL0528) (3 Credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
BUSN2225
Principles of Marketing
An introduction to the study of marketing in business and other organizations. Topics include: the marketing environment, marketing strategies and decision-making, marketing ethics and the international dimension of marketing strategy. (Prerequisite: none) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
SMGT1207
Budgeting & Financial Analysis for Managers
This primary goal of this course is to provide ¿user¿ managers with a sufficient set of management planning and control concepts and methods to: properly understand business transactions; develop and analyze balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements; create a workable budget; understand financial terms; create the first workable and saleable version of your business concept (MVP ¿ minimum viable product); determine & analyze IRR, ROI, and other financial milestones; conduct profitability analysis; and understand product life cycles/end of product life. 3 credits (3 Lec/ 0 Lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
SMGT1210
Supervision Principles
This course covers an overview of the supervisory field. The course introduces aspects of the supervisor's job that are developed in depth on other courses throughout the program. Topics to be covered include: Basic skills required of managers, fundamentals of planning, organizing, delegating, communication skills, selecting and training new employees, appraising and compensating employees, discipline and exercising control, and controlling productivity, quality and safety. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
SMGT1212
Managing for Quality
This course covers the Total Quality Management Philosophy put forth by a variety of Quality Gurus around the world. It includes a step-by-step process to put a quality program to work in an organization, including shortcuts and how to avoid pitfalls. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
SMGT1214
Practical Problem Solving
This course will provide participant with the skills and resources to solve organizational problems and make better decisions. The opportunity will be provided to practice various problem solving techniques and tools, including the seven quality tools. Participants will learn methods for thinking about problems more creatively. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
SMGT1216
Leadership Development
This course is an introduction to the concept of leadership. In addition to mechanics and styles of leadership, the moral and ethical considerations of leadership will also be stressed. Topics to be discussed will include: managing change, vision statements, power and its use and abuse, communicating like a leader, empowering employees, setting an example, recognizing others, and celebrating successes. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
SMGT1749
Project Management
The need for business leaders and managers to manage programs and projects is evident today. Technology managers and all managers will find much higher competency in the workplace with an understanding of methods of completing projects on schedule and on budget. This course presents the specific concepts, techniques, and tools for managing projects effectively. The role of the project manager as team leader is examined, together with important techniques for controlling cost, schedules, and performance parameters. Through readings, class discussions, and interactive exercises, learners gain an understanding of both the technical and human aspects of project management. (Prerequisite: none) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
SMGT2210
Human Resource Issues for Managers
This course covers a variety of personnel issues that affect managers and supervisors in most organizations. Human Resource issues from hiring to firing, documentation, as well as potential legal ramifications will be covered. Laws regarding sexual harassment, all types of discrimination, Family Medical Leave Act, Americans with Disabilities Act and any new legislation that could impact area managers will be researched. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
SMGT2214
Teambuilding
The purpose of this course is to educate managers, supervisors, and other interested employees about the concept of workteams. The topics covered are stages of team development, building trust within the team, consensus decision making, running effective team meetings, and symptoms of a dysfunctional team. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
SMGT2216
Coaching & Productivity Enhancement
This course covers a variety of techniques to use when coaching employees. Topics to be included are counseling, mentoring, training, correcting and how to use employee appraisal systems to improve productivity of employees. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
SMGT2218
Service Management
This course covers how businesses are increasing profitability through a process of assessment of customer needs and changing expectations. Learn critical elements of how to train others to deliver service excellence. "Internal" and "External" customers are included in all aspects of discussion of effective customer service. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
SMGT2220
Management Theories and Organizational Studies
Effective management of organizational dynamics requires an understanding of both theory and practice. Three characteristics common to all organizations are explored: behavior, structure, and processes. How these characteristics interrelate and are influenced by actions of managers is the main focus of the class. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)

Download the Course Outline

3 cr
 
45 crs

Total Credits Required for this Major: 60 Credits


Estimated Costs for this Major

Approximate Tuition/Fees:$12,379
Minimum Tool Cost:N/A
Books/Supplies:$1,000
Estimated Total:$13,379
 

 


Career Opportunities

  • Supervisor
  • Workplace Leader
  • Department Head
  • Office Manager

Career Information

Use the MN DEED Career and Education Explorer Data Tool to learn about wages, job growth, and much more in this career field.

Outcomes

Program graduates will be able to:
  1. Demonstrate leadership skills and identify approaches to motivation to achieve a productive work environment.
  2. Apply human resource management practices at a supervisory management level.
  3. Apply marketing, management, and organizational theories in a supervisory setting.
  4. Demonstrate financial management skills at a non-financial management level.
  5. Demonstrate analytical skills in identifying and solving supervisory business problems.
  6. Utilize current business technology.
  7. Plan, prepare, and deliver effective oral and written communications.

Highlights

  • Accelerated learning for adults
  • Classes held mostly in the evening
  • Enhancement program for people in business/industry
  • Teaching methods build self-esteem and critical thinking skills
  • Emphasis on leadership development
  • Network with learners from a variety of area businesses

Instructors

Various instructors teach in this program, based on their industry experience. Faculty from the college Accounting and Administrative Support Careers programs teach in their areas of expertise. Credentialed industry professionals with master's degrees in business teach courses in leadership, project management, quality, and human resource management.