Browse the course descriptions of all courses that the Merrick School of Business offers.
A comprehensive study of basic financial accounting processes applicable to a service, merchandising, and manufacturing business. An analysis of transactions, journalizing, posting, preparation of working papers and ­financial statements.
An introductory study of managerial accounting processes including job order costing, process costing, cost-volume-profit analysis, standard costs, activity-based costing, cost analysis, budgeting, and managerial decision making. Prerequisite: ACCT 201 or equivalent with a minimum grade of C.
A study of financial accounting ­standard setting, the conceptual framework underlying financial accounting, balance sheet and income statement ­presentations, revenue and expense ­recognition, and accounting for current assets, and current liabilities. Prerequisite: ACCT 202 with a minimum grade of C.
This class is the second course of the three-semester sequence of intermediate financial accounting. This course focuses on issues related to the reporting and analysis of financial accounting information. The objective in this course is to examine in detail (with an emphasis on both the "what" and the "why") the following financial topics: 1) Operational Assets 2) Time value of money 3) Bonds and long term notes 4) Leases 5) Employee benefits and pensions. Prerequisite: ACCT301 or equivalent with a minimum grade of C.
A study of cost behavior, overhead cost ­allocations, cost systems design, and an introduction to activity-based costing and control systems. Emphasis is on case studies and other practical applications. Prerequisite: ACCT 202 with minimum grade of C.
A study of fundamental accounting system concepts, the utilization of accounting system technology to establish security and controls, accounting system development, documentation and data base implementation and the internal controls of accounting information. Projects use AIS applications on the revenue, expense, production and payroll cycles.
A study of Generally Accepted Auditing Standards and other standards. Topics covered include professional standards, professional ethics, audit planning, internal control, audit evidence, completing the audit, audit reports and standards for different assurance and non-assurance services. Prerequisites: Acct 302 with a minimium grade of C / Merrick School of Business student or by permission of the instructor.
A study of auditing and other assurance services with an emphasis on the world of auditing that exists outside of the college textbook. Special emphasis is given to legal liability, statistical sampling, audits of SEC registrants, research using the AICPA auditing database, and other assurance services. A case study approach is used to attempt to create a realistic view of how an auditor organizes and carries out an audit examination. Prerequisite: OPRE 202 and ACCT 401 or equivalent with a minimum grade of C.
A study of business combinations and the preparation of consolidated financial statements for consolidated enterprises, fund-type accounting for governmental units and not-for-profit entities, accounting for partnerships, and accounting for multi-national enterprises. Prerequisite: ACCT 302 or equivalent with a minimum grade of C.
A study and analysis of the federal income tax structure with emphasis upon the taxation of individuals. Topics include income determination, deductions, property transactions, credits, procedures, and an introduction to corporation and partnership taxation, tax planning and ethical issues. Prerequisite: ACCT 202 or equivalent with a minimum grade of C.
A continuation of the study of the federal income tax structure with emphasis on the taxation of business entities, including corporations, partnerships and entities taxed as partnerships and S corporations. Also introduces gift and estate taxes and income taxation of estates and trusts. Prerequisite: ACCT 405 or equivalent.
A detailed study of current problems and contemporary developments in accounting literature, reports, and bulletins and a review of financial accounting theory as it relates to current accounting practices. Prerequisite: ACCT 302 or equivalent with a minimum grade of B-. Merrick School of Business student, or by permission of the instructor.
Provides an overview of the field of forensic accounting, focusing on the roles, responsibilities and requirements of a forensic accountant in both litigation and fraud engagements. Examines basic litigation and fraud examination theory, identifies financial fraud schemes, explores the legal framework for damages and fraud and damage assessments and methodologies, and reviews earning management and financial reporting fraud. Other topics include computer forensics and corporate governance and ethics. Actual litigation and fraud cases are used to highlight the evolving roles of forensic accounting.
Considers business ethics issues within an accounting context from a multiple stakeholder perspective. Ethical theories, codes of ethics relevant to accountants, corporate governance and professional and corporate social responsibility are covered. The course emphasizes the application of concepts such as professionalism, integrity, independence and objectivity to individual decision-making.
The course covers the basics of federal, state and local (municipal) accounting with particular focus on fund accounting and issues specific to the accounting by the US Federal Government. The course coverage will roughly approximate the curriculum of Part II and III of Exam II of Certified Government Financial Manager examination.
The course provides rigorous overview of theoretical and practical aspects of Law, Regulation, and Professional Responsibilities for Certified Public Accountants. The course covers legal issues pertaining to agency, contracts, debtor-creditor relationships, securities and employment law. The course also covers ethical and professional standards for certified public accountants.
Provides students with real-world accounting experience. The course requires approximately 175 hours of practical work with a qualified firm based on explicit statements of student responsibilities and faculty/firm monitoring mechanisms. Students will work closely with both the firm and a faculty member. It is recommended that students complete an internship in their junior year. prerequisites: Completion of nine semester hours of accounting with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Completion of MGMT 330 or permission of the instructor. Permission of the instructor is required.
The accounting faculty, from time to time, offer an opportunity to integrate new material into the undergraduate program reflecting changes in the field and in the educational needs of students. Prerequisites: ACCT 202 or equivalent with a grade of C or better or instructor permission.
An in-depth study of a specific accounting topic performed on an independent basis by the student under the direction of a faculty member. Completion of a major paper as part of the independent study is required. For eligibility and ­procedures, refer to the Merrick School of Business Independent Study Policy.
A study of financial accounting standard-setting, the conceptual framework underlying financial accounting, balance sheet and income statement presentations, revenue and expense recognition, and accounting for current assets and current liabilities. Prerequisite: ACCT 505 or equivalent.
A comprehensive view of financial accounting concepts and principles, an intensive look at the nature and determination of the major financial statements, and an examination of current accounting practice, theory, and literature. Topics include shareholders' equity, investments, income taxes, earnings per share, accounting changes, error analysis, and statement of cash flows. Prerequisite: Completed or concurrent enrollment in ACCT 511.
A study and analysis of the federal income tax structure with emphasis on the taxation of individuals. Topics include income determination, deductions, property transactions, credits and procedures, and an introduction to corporation and partnership taxation, tax planning and ethical issues. Prerequisite: ACCT 505 or equivalent.
Provides an overview of the field of forensic accounting, focusing on the roles, responsibilities and requirements of a forensic accountant in both litigation and fraud engagements. Examines basic litigation and fraud examination theory, identifies financial fraud schemes, explores the legal framework for damages and fraud and damage assessments and methodologies, and reviews earning management and financial reporting fraud. Other topics include computer forensics and corporate governance and ethics. Actual litigation and fraud cases are used to highlight the evolving roles of forensic accounting. ACCT 505 or equivalent.
Students learn how to review, detect and investigate possible financial statement concerns of publicly and privately held businesses, as well as those of nonprofit organizations and family businesses. Topics include legal elements of financial statement fraud, management's and auditors' responsibilities, improper revenue/sales recognition, inadequate disclosure of related-party transactions, improper asset valuation, improper deferral of costs and expenses, financial statement red flags and inadequacies in management's discussion and analysis. Students learn how to detect and investigate possible financial statement problems by addressing such factors as off-balance sheet activity, liquidity, financial performance indicators, unreported intangibles and lease auditing. Prerequisite: ACCT 505 or equivalent.
Topics include the in-depth review of sophisticated fraud schemes, how fraudulent conduct can be deterred, how allegations of fraud should be investigated and resolved, the recovery of assets, methods of writing effective reports and complying with SAS 82 and other fraud standards. Fraud and investigation topics cover acts of skimming, cash larceny, check tampering, register disbursement schemes, billing schemes, payroll and expense reimbursement schemes, improper accounting of inventory and other assets, corruption, bribery, conflicts of interest, security fraud, insurance fraud, anti-terrorist financing and money laundering. Prerequisite: ACCT 505 or equivalent.
Addresses the relationship between the forensic accounting professional and the litigation process in which he or she may play a role. Specifically, this course covers the litigation process, the legal framework for damages and fraud, damage assessment methodologies, issues related to the presentation of evidence through expert testimony, practices used in supporting divorce cases and basic rules of evidence as they apply to forensic accountants. Prerequisite: ACCT 505 or equivalent.
Focuses on how managers can use accounting information in the budgeting process to assist them in planning, controlling and making decisions. Introduces students to internal controls, corporate governance and enterprise risk management. Prerequisites: ACCT 505 or equivalent.
This course focuses on applying cutting-edge analytics techniques to examine "big data" in finance, accounting, and auditing. Students will acquire working knowledge of common financial data analytics software packages (e.g. SAS, Tableau, and IDEA). The course will heavily emphasize using data analytics techniques in solving common finance, accounting and auditing problems through using data preparation, data visualization and analysis techniques. Prerequisite: ACCT 512 or equivalent or permission of program director.
Explores the evolution and structure of the federal income tax system from a public policy perspective. Focus is placed on legal, economic, social and practical considerations. Alternatives, including current legislative proposals, are considered. Students prepare a research paper on a topic related to tax policy.
ACCT 701: Accounting Ethics - Considers business ethics issues within an accounting context from a multiple stakeholder perspective. Ethical theories, codes of ethics relevant to accountants, corporate governance and professional and corporate social responsibility are covered. The course emphasizes the application of concepts such as professionalism, integrity, independence and objectivity to individual decision-making.
This course covers the basic of federal, state and local (municipal) accounting with particular focus on fund accounting and issues specific to the accounting by the US Federal Government. The course coverage will roughly approximate the curriculum of Parts II and III of Exam II of Certified Government Financial Manager examination.
Applies current business tools and techniques to the understanding of what factors drive profitability, including financial as well as risk, quality, and social responsibility factors.
A study of business combinations and the preparation of consolidated financial statements for consolidated enterprises, fund-type accounting for governmental units and not-for-profit entities, accounting for partnerships and accounting for multinational enterprises. Graduate equivalent of ACCT 403. prerequisite: ACCT 511 or equivalent.
Students will attain professional accounting experience and work on assigned projects within a workplace accounting environment. Requirements include a work supervisor evaluation, a journal detailing the work experience, and a self-assessment of the student's internship experience. Prerequisite: Admission to the MS in Accounting and Business Advisory Services Program and permission of the graduate director of the accounting program.
A basic study of the judicial system, contracts, agency, fraud, sale of personal property, warranties, transfer of title, and legal remedies.
Money and Banking focuses on financial markets and their interaction with the stability and growth of the U.S. economy. The course will be useful for all undergraduate business majors and will encourage a sound understanding and appreciation of topics frequently cited in the business press.
The economics and finance faculty, from time to time, offer an opportunity to integrate new material into the undergraduate ­program reflecting changes in the field and in the educational needs of ­students. Prerequisites: ECON 305 and six additional hours of economics.
An independent study completed under the direction of a faculty member. For eligibility and ­procedures, refer to the Merrick School of Business Independent Study Policy.
The entrepreneurial process considered as a paradigm, tracing the process and highlighting its practical applications. Special emphasis on the creation and initial growth phases of new ventures, with discussion of related ethical, international and legal issues. Local entrepreneurs serve as guest speakers. Open to all students, this course functions as a survey course as well as the first in the specialization in entrepreneurship sequence.
Linked to the first three practice in the Entrepreneurship Fellows Program. Consists of approximately 4 hours per week of mentorship with a local expert entrepreneur. Prerequisite: Status as an Entrepreneurship Fellow. Department permission required.
The entrepreneurship faculty, from time to time, offer an opportunity to integrate new material into the undergraduate program reflecting changes in the field and in the educational needs of students. Prerequisite: ENTR 300.
An independent study completed under the direction of a faculty member. For eligibility and procedures, refer to the Merrick School of Business Independent Study Policy.
Provides a study of how successful nonprofit organizations respond to the challenges of expanding their impact, being socially responsible and fiscally accountable, and finding new sources of revenue. The course will investigate innovative ways to generate both financial and social returns on their investments. Students will engage with live social entrepreneurs to evaluate and respond to market opportunities to develop and grow social enterprises. prerequisite: FIN 505 or permission of instructor.
A practical introduction to financial concepts and tools such as the time value of money, risk-return tradeoffs, asset pricing models, the efficient market hypothesis, financial databases and Internet searches. Students learn to apply these concepts and tools to personal financial decisions about housing, personal and small business borrowing, insurance, income taxes, retirement planning and investments in common stock, bonds, mutual funds, and futures and options. FIN 300 may not be used as a specialization course by finance majors.
An understanding of the basic valuation principles for financial instruments such as ­common stocks, bonds, and futures and options. These instruments are studied in the context of modern portfolio theory. Company and industry analysis projects provide the chance for practical experience. Prerequisite: FIN 331.
Fundamental concepts of insurance/reinsurance products as risk management tools for individuals and corporations. Topics include the regulatory environment, financial operations of insurance companies and the role of the capital market in the risk management process.
Provides knowledge and training in the area of capital acquisition strategies and tactics through the life cycle of an entrepreneurial venture and coverage of valuation techniques as applied to the allocation of business areas. Topics include start-up and mezzanine financing and bridging to initial public offers on the capital budgeting and internal control techniques applied in the strategic context developed in earlier courses. Prerequisite: FIN 331.
In global financial markets, exchange rate risk exposure demands careful management and the use of financial instruments for hedging currency risk. These include currency options, futures and swaps. Working capital management and long-term financing and investment decisions are also crucial to today's financial managers and need to be understood in the context of expanding global financial markets. Prerequisite: FIN 331.
Provides students with practical real-world experience in an organization. The course requires a minimum of 120 hours of practical work with a qualified firm based on explicit statements of student responsibilities and faculty/firm monitoring mechanism. Students will work closely with both the firm and a faculty member. prerequisites: completion of 9 hours of finance courses, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 in these courses. Completion of MGMT 330 is recommended. Permission of the department chair is required.
The economics and finance faculty, from time to time, offer an opportunity to integrate new material into the undergraduate program reflecting changes in the field and in the educational needs of students. Prerequisites: FIN 331.
An independent study under the direction of a faculty member. For ­eligibility and procedures, refer to the Merrick School of Business Independent Study Policy.
Provides introductory-level coverage of financial management. Topics include overview of financial markets, financial statement analysis, time value of money, risk-return tradeoff, security pricing and valuation, and capital budgeting decision tools.
Business valuation arises in mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, estate taxation, lost profits litigation, buy-out agreements, commercial lending, venture capital, IPOs and other exit strategies. This course addresses valuation modeling, using asset pricing theory and practice and employing advanced applications such as EXCEL and corporate databases. The course material is of interest to students who envision careers as CPAs, business valuation experts, corporate finance analysts and investment bankers. Prerequisite: FIN 605.
This course develops logical and analytical thinking through basic programming concepts like looping, simple sequence, decision and branching. It also provides an exposure to algorithm development for the design of simple programs. Topics include basic concepts of data and file organization.
This course introduces good coding practices using structured programming concepts. Modules and shared routines with single-entry and single-exit points are emphasized. Sequence, selection, repetition, and nesting, techniques are reinforced as acceptable means of controlling program logic. Students work on projects that involve analyzing, designing, coding, executing and testing programs. Pre-requisite: INSS 209 or permission of instructor .
Data scientists spend up to 80% of their time and effort in collecting, cleaning and preparing data to produce usable datasets which can be leveraged for analytics. This course will focus on using the programming language python for these data preparation tasks. Students will learn to extract data from databases and unstructured data sources such as social media feeds, as well as how to "wrangle" (clean, transform, merge and reshape) data. Topics include python data structures, program logic and libraries, data management and data standardization. No prior experience with programming languages is required.
Information technology stressing the ­personal computer (PC) as a critically important tool in today's business ­environment. An advanced foundation in information technology enabling students to support personal computer users in selecting, acquiring, customizing, optimizing, maintaining and upgrading their PC hardware and system software. Topics include: characteristics of CPUs, input/output devices; motherboards and ­expansion cards; operating systems and graphical user interface; memory management; system performance benchmarks and techniques; hardware and software technical selection; hardware and software upgrading and installation, and setup of system software. Students are introduced to local area and wide area network technologies. Ethical and legal issues related to computers, especially to PCs, are presented. Prerequisite: INSS 100 or INSS 300 or equivalent.
Introduces key principles and techniques used to develop or modify information systems to support business ¬undertakings. The course covers the lifecycle of software systems, with an emphasis on the analysis and logical design phases. Topics include the determination and modeling of the requirements of information systems and software, business process modeling and reengineering, data modeling, data gathering and requirements specification, interface design, and the development of system prototypes, including electronic forms and reports. Students gain experience with leading industry development tools such as those from Oracle and PeopleSoft. prerequisite: INSS 209 or INSS 225 or equivalent/ Merrick School of Business student or permission of the instructor.
Introduces the concepts and technologies relevant to the design, development, and implementation of database systems. Data modeling concepts and principles of database design are used to illustrate the construction of integrated databases. Database management systems (DBMS) and their purpose, advantages, disadvantages, and application in business are covered. Prerequisite: INSS 300/ Merrick School of Business student or ­permission of the instructor.
This course provides both a managerial and technical perspective on e-commerce applications, with an emphasis on the operational, tactical, and strategic applications of e-commerce, and the major technologies involved in their development. The course will cover the different types of e-commerce., the technologies and techniques involved, and the major issues facing organizations conducting electronic commerce. Managerial topics include mobile commerce; business, consumer, and government ecommerce uses; and legal, ethical and regulatory issues. Technical topics explored include network infrastructure, ecommerce security, and technologies for data transformation and exchange such as XML. Prerequisite: INSS 300/ Merrick School of Business student or permission of the instructor.
Provides students with intermediate skills in ­developing interactive, server-based, applications using the world wide web common gateway interface (CGI) and includes the installation and management of web server software, e.g., Apache and other freeware web server software. PERL and CGI programming, Visual Basic, C, or C++ may be used as an alternative CGI programming language. Prerequisites: INSS 401 and INSS 225, or 327, or permission of the instructor.
The current real –world software development environment is characterized by complex, sophisticated frameworks of interdependent tools, functionalities, and languages. Architectures such as J2EE and .NET facilitate the design and development of component-based, distributed, reusable software code for business applications. The purpose of this course is to provide an overview of the concepts, principles, and practices of component-oriented applications development, and to foster hands-on skills using one or more architectures. Topics include software design, development, assembly, and deployment issues, comparison with object-oriented approaches, component standards and libraries, and interoperability concerns. Prerequisite: INSS 225 or equivalent or permission of the instructor.
The INSS faculty, from time to time, offer an opportunity to integrate new material into the undergraduate program reflecting changes in the field and in the educational needs of students. prerequisites appear in each semester's class schedule. Prerequisite: Merrick School of Business student and by permission of the instructor.
An ­independent study completed under the direction of a faculty member. For eligibility and procedures, refer to the Merrick School of Business Independent Study Policy.Prerequisite: Merrick School of Business student and by permission of the instructor.
Examines the key roles that information systems and technologies play in the current business environment as well as the disruptive and innovative nature of information systems in promoting the fundamental transformation of industries, businesses and society. Covers current major issues in the field of management of information systems, such as social computing, cybersecurity, big data and mobile technologies. Prerequisites: graduate standing.
This course will introduce the basis of using the python programming language in data science, specifically to collect and manipulate data in preparation for exploratory data analysis and prediction. No prior programming experience is required. Topics will include python data structures, program logic and libraries, as well as data wrangling and data management. Types of data sources covered will include databases as well as unstructured data sources such as social media feeds.
The effectiveness of business analytics depends on the quality of the data fed into the analytics models used. Data scientists can spend as much as 60% of their time cleaning and organizing data. This course focuses on preparing data for analytics tasks, to improve the accuracy and reliability of the results. Using python students will learn to "wrangle" (clean, transform, merge and reshape) data. Techniques will include data parsing, data correction, and data standardization.
Digital technologies are playing a transformative role in the modern world. The changes associated with digital innovations such as social media, block-chain technology and smart embedded devices are rapidly disrupting a variety of industries across the globe and challenging institutions, organizational structures, and most importantly, the skillset needed for a successful workforce. This course focuses on bleeding-edge technologies and digital business transformation. It enables students to understand the challenges and opportunities of the dynamic complex and disruptive technological business environment of the digital age.
The digital revolution is constantly challenging businesses and managers to adapt to new realities. Many organizations are establishing market leadership in today's competitive environment by mastering digital innovation. This course is designed to assist students in understanding that the fundamental nature of digital innovation is not about information technology, but is about thinking differently about how to organize to create value. It aims to equip students to competently identify technological and organizational opportunities, lead digital initiatives and develop new business models for existing and emerging organizations. Topics include digital disruption and innovation, digital platforms, digital business models and digital product and service development.
Awareness and management of information security has become critical to the management of any organization. This course focuses on the need for businesses to adapt to the changing security landscape, and provides an introduction to the different domain areas in information security from a managerial perspective. Topics will include security governance, legal regulations and compliance, environmental security, operations security, access controls, network security, disaster recovery response, and cryptography.
Provides students with the skills necessary to advance their career development. Strategies and practices that allow the student to successfully interface with potential employers are explored and applied. Course modules include business etiquette and professional behavior, appropriate use of workplace communication techniques, written business communications, and showcasing career-building talents and skills within an organizational context. There is a lab fee associated with this course.
An exploration of data analysis and presentation skills for human resource decision-making. Research skills and computer technology are applied to planning, selection, compensation, survey data, organizational effectiveness and utilization analysis. Special emphasis is placed on oral, written and electronic communication skills. prerequisite: MGMT 315 and OPRE 202 / Merrick School of Business student or by permission of the instructor.
An in-depth discussion of employment law as it applies to recruitment, selection and promotion decisions as well as management's responsibility to comply with the many federal laws pertaining to employer-employee relations. prerequisites: MGMT 315 / Merrick School of Business student or by permission of the instructor.
An analysis of the history and development of the American labor movement. Emphasis is placed on labor legislation and present practices in contract negotiations, analysis and administration. An overview of international labor issues is provided. Prerequisite: MGMT 315 / Merrick School of Business student or by permission of the instructor.
A detailed study of topics related to the design and operation of manufacturing systems. Topics include zero inventory, group technology, flexible manufacturing, synchronous production and Grundlichkeit. Interactions with other fields of management such as marketing and finance are discussed. Manufacturing issues related to capacity and demand, productivity and quality, flexibility and ¬efficiency are also addressed. Prerequisite: MGMT 339 / Merrick School of Business student or by permission of the instructor.
An intensive introduction to the practice of business in the international setting, as well as the ­various cross-cultural factors to be found around the world. Prerequisites: MGMT 302/ Merrick School of Business student or permission of the instructor.
Provides students with practical real-world experience in an organization. The course requires a minimum of 120 hours of practical work with a qualified firm based on explicit statements of student responsibilities and a faculty/firm monitoring mechanism. Students will work closely with both the firm and a faculty member. prerequisites: completion of 9 hours of management courses, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Completion of MGMT 330 is recommended. Permission of the department chair is required.
Students have the opportunity to work closely with a company engaged in international business. The course requires a substantial work assignment consistent with expectations for a 3-credit course in the Merrick School. The faculty member will approve a statement of student responsibilities and design a monitoring mechanism prior to beginning the work. Prerequisite: department consent required / Merrick School of Business student.
An intensive exploration of topics in the area of management. Refer to the current Class Schedule for topic offered. Prerequisites: Determined by instructor, Merrick School of Business student.
To better understand and succeed in global business today, there is no better way than direct experience through immersing oneself in a foreign environment. This course will provide an opportunity for lectures and discussion with local experts and students regarding key themes of economic, political and cultural importance to business. The course will engage students in field visits to companies, government agencies and other organizations located abroad. Prerequisite: department consent required.
Based on the idea that the deeper we go into the exploration of organizational leadership, learning and change, the more we need to deal with the dimensions of the sense-making, connection-building, choice-making, vision-inspiring, reality-creating roles of leaders. The course involves a series of workshops designed to help students learn something that cannot be taught: leading, learning and changing "from within." Readings, assignments and Web forum interactions are designed to inspire "practices of deep inflection": storytelling, historical inquiry, reflective reading and writing, dialogue and action research.
Covers self-organizing systems, complexity theory in management, dialogue as a management tool, leadership in a complex system, pursuing a personal discovery process and growing new knowledge and innovation. A major objective is to discover the management principles and processes that promote and foster self-organization as an alternative to command-and-control hierarchies. Also draws on the profound implications of self-organization for growing new knowledge and innovation. A second major objective has to do with the process of personal discovery. Parallel principles of spontaneous order operate at the level of the organization and at the level of the individual. As a result, a highly leveraged form of change in an organization is leadership through personal growth and discovery.
An integrating and strategic study of alternate management principles and approaches. Topics include Zero Inventory (Japan), Group Technology (Russia), Flexible Manufacturing (USA), Synchronous Manufacturing (Israel), Grundlichkeit (Germany) and other approaches. Presents perspectives related to innovation and technology, capacity and demand, productivity and quality, flexibility and efficiency, international manufacturing, and emerging issues. Prerequisite: prior or current enrollment in MGMT 506 or its equivalent.
Provides an overview of e-commerce and supply chain management. Covers in detail the role of e-commerce in the design, integration and management of supply chains; topics include logistics networks, business-to-business and business-to-consumer supply chains, decision-support systems for supply chain management, strategic alliances, Internet strategy, e-business models, e-markets (including auctions and exchanges), Internet retailing, dynamic pricing, distribution networks, Internet-based integration of value chains, the role of the Internet infrastructure (banks, utilities and so forth), decision technologies, information goods, the status of brands in the Internet economy, mass customization and various technologies related to e-business. Also covers sustainability; topics include environment and operations management, the design of sustainable products and closed-loop supply chains.
Focuses on leadership challenges and dilemmas of multinational and multicultural organizations within the United States and among other countries. Enhances knowledge and capabilities to more effectively identify, understand and manage the cultural components of organizational and business dynamics. Topics include cultural value awareness, cross-cultural communication skills and cross-cultural leadership skills, including strategic planning, organizational design and creating and motivating a globally competent workforce. Prerequisite: MGMT 600 or MGMT 605.
Digital media has revolutionized the interactions between firms and customers. In this course, the students will learn about the immediate impact digital media in marketing can have on reaching the customers. While digital media is not a new medium, it is still one of the main ways many businesses are launched and it helps raise online awareness through viable, engaging content; thoughtful, meaningful branding; sticky websites; all leading to higher rankings and larger audiences. Prerequisite: MKTG 301.
An application of marketing concepts and tools to international marketing problems arising in a global business environment. Prerequisites: MKTG 301.
The course examines integrated marketing communications in the context of changes in media that have occurred since 2000. Communication theory will be the foundation of planning, implementing, evaluating and coordinating an integrated marketing communication program. There will be special emphasis on social media. Students will advance their professional competencies in written and oral communication, teamwork and critical thinking. Prerequisite: MKTG 301/ Merrick School of Business student or by permission of the instructor.
Presents the sales principles and skills required by today's professional salesperson, with emphasis on both the business-to-consumer and business-to-business selling environments. Examines current approaches to a variety of selling challenges including prospecting, the selling process, closing the sale and post-sale follow-up. Presents the principles underlying the sales process and the practical application of these principles to selling situations. Studies the role of selling in the total marketing process. Prerequisite: MKTG 301 / Merrick School of Business student/ or by permission of the instructor.
Examines methods of creating new ideas, developing product prototypes, modifying existing products, evaluating market response, and commercializing and launching new products and services. Competitive and global changes, and technological, social, legal, economic and related issues are considered in the assessment of market potential, corporate resource needs and eventual success. Prerequisite: MKTG 301 / Merrick School of Business student or by permission of the instructor.
The use of information and marketing models to analyze consumer and industrial markets. Students also build professional competencies in using computers to analyze marketing information used for market planning. Prerequisite: MKTG 301.
A study of the organization and management of a marketing-oriented enterprise using marketing cases and/or simulations to integrate the frameworks and skills from Marketing Management (MKTG 301) to analyze and plan marketing programs. Critical thinking, oral and written communication and teamwork competencies are advanced. Prerequisite: MKTG 301,senior status or permission of the department chair /Merrick School of Business student.
An advanced interdisciplinary seminar that focuses on important books and issues and encourages independent thinking, clear presentation and an understanding of the concerns and methods of various disciplines. The course may be team taught; topic and instructor(s) may change from semester to semester. Course may be repeated for credit when topic changes. Prerequisite: 3.3 GPA and permission of the Denit Honors Program director / Merrick School of Business student.
Provides students with practical real-world experience in an organization. The course requires a minimum of 120 hours of practical work with a qualified firm based on explicit statements of student responsibilities and a faculty/firm monitoring mechanism. Students will work closely with both the firm and a faculty member. Prerequisites: Completion of 9 hours of marketing courses, with a minimum GPA of 3. 0. Completion of MGMT 330 is recommended. Permission of the department chair is required.
The marketing faculty, from time to time, offer an opportunity to integrate new material into the undergraduate program reflecting changes in the field and in the educational needs of students. Prerequisite: MKTG 301/ Merrick School of Business student or permission of the instructor.
An independent study completed under the direction of a ­faculty member. For eligibility and ­procedures, refer to the Merrick School of Business Independent Study Policy.
Introduces the subject of opportunity analysis in marketing, intrapreneurship and entrepreneurship as well as the practice of their requisite skills. Includes the analysis of markets, competition, preliminary cost feasibility and intellectual property and also involves the creation and development of strategic positioning appropriate to the marketing opportunity. prerequisite: MKTG 605 or permission of the instructor.
Covers the essentials of innovation and project management from project selection through implementation, monitoring, control and termination. Topics covered include: product/process innovation, project identification, risk and uncertainty in project management, project planning and budgeting, selecting the project team, resource allocation, implementation and control, and project evaluation and termination. prerequisite: OPM 505 or permission of instructor.
A second course in the statistical analysis of data related to business activities with emphasis on applications in various functional areas including accounting, finance, management, marketing and operations management, among others. Topics include estimation, hypothesis testing, contingency tables and chi-square test, analysis of variance and covariance, simple and multiple regression analysis and correlation analysis. Computer implementation using Excel-based statistical data analysis or other relevant software and interpretation of results for business applications are emphasized. prerequisites: OPRE 201 and basic computer skills.
An ­independent study under the direction of a faculty member. For eligibility and procedures, refer to the Merrick School of Business Independent Study Policy.
Explores business analytics and its applications to management decision-making for a range of business situations. Covers problem structuring; big data; data mining; optimization; computer simulation; decision analysis; and predictive modeling. prerequisite: OPRE 504 or OPRE 505 and OPRE 506 or equivalent or permission of the M.B.A. program director.
Identifies the framework in which the acquisition and development of real estate are arranged. Particular attention is paid to financing techniques and the underlying financial structures involved in real estate investment choices. Emphasis is placed on development issues including site acquisition and evaluation, environmental regulation, market analysis and interaction with constituent groups.
Emphasizes real estate markets with specific attention given to understanding the market forces affecting real estate at the urban and regional levels. The main focus is on providing insight into the operation of urban land and nonresidential markets and the process of urban growth and regional development. Prerequisites: REED 312 / Merrick School of Business student or by permission of the instructor.
Provides students with practical real world experience in an organization. The course requires a minimum of 120 hours of practical work with a qualified firm based on explicit statements of student responsibilities and faculty/firm monitoring mechanism. Students will work closely with both the firm and a faculty member. Prerequisite: completion of 9 hours of real estate courses, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Completion of MGMT 330 is recommended. Permission of the department chair is required..
Covers research and writing projects on federal tax subjects with analysis and instruction in tax research techniques, materials and methodology. Students are required to prepare legal memoranda.
Covers basic concepts in federal income taxation, including gross income, exclusions, adjusted gross income, deductions, exemptions, credits, assignment of income, identification of the taxpayer, tax rates, depreciation and the alternative minimum tax.
Covers federal income taxation of corporations and their shareholders with emphasis on the formation of the corporation, capital structure, operational alternatives, distributions, partial and complete liquidations, personal holding companies and the accumulated earnings tax. Formation, operation and liquidation of S corporations discussed briefly.
Explores problems encountered in the formation, operation and liquidation of a partnership, including the acquisition of partnership interests, compensation of the service partner, the treatment of partnership distributions and problems associated with the disposition of partnership interests or property by sale.
Covers aspects of practice before the Internal Revenue Service, including ruling requests, handling of audits, assessment of deficiencies and penalties, closing agreements, tax liens, statutes of limitations, claims for refunds, appeals conferences and practice before the U.S. Tax Court, U.S. District Courts, Claims Court and appellate courts. Also includes analysis of the problems encountered in parallel civil and criminal proceedings, problems involving government investigatory powers and taxpayer rights and privileges.
A study of the evolution and structure of the federal income tax system from a public-policy perspective with a focus on legal, economic, social and practical considerations. Alternatives, including current legislative proposals, are considered. Students prepare a paper on a tax policy issue approved by the professor.
Covers the basic principles of federal estate and gift taxation, including computation of the taxable estate, inter vivos transfers, transfers in contemplation of death, transfers with retained interests or powers, joint interests, life insurance proceeds, property subject to powers of appointment, the marital deduction and the unified credit.
Analysis of the federal income tax provisions applying to U.S. inbound and outbound transactions and investments. Course covers U.S. resident status, source-of-income rules, graduated tax on effectively connected income, withholding tax on FDAP income, branch profits tax, FIRPTA, tax treaties, foreign tax credit, foreign earned income exclusion, Subpart F and transfer pricing.
An introduction to pension and profit-sharing law with particular emphasis on Title 2 (IRS) of ERISA. Geared toward understanding all of the pension and profit-sharing rules that must be met for plan qualification, with emphasis on qualified plan planning for both incorporated and unincorporated forms of business.
Covers methods of providing tax-free and tax-deferred compensation to employees, including section 83 tax planning, stock option tax planning, incentive compensation arrangements and methods of funding nonqualified plans.
An analysis of provisions relating to the qualification for exemption from federal income tax, with emphasis on section 501(c)(3) organizations, private foundations and the treatment of unrelated business income.
Covers federal income taxation of decedents' estates, simple and complex trusts, charitable trusts and grantor trusts. Also covers the preparation of fiduciary income tax returns with emphasis on unique tax issues such as income in respect of a decedent, distributable net income and fiduciary accounting.
Explores federal constitutional and statutory limitations on state authority to tax a multistate business. Specific topics include the Commerce Clause, sales and use tax nexus and PL 86-272 limitations on state income taxation. Also covers apportionment of income derived from a multistate business and combined versus separate entity reporting. Maryland state and local taxation also are examined briefly.
A continuation of basic tax concepts, including cash and accrual methods, capital gains and losses, 1231 transactions, recapture, original issue discount and imputed interest, below-market loans, installment sales, like-kind exchanges, involuntary conversions, at-risk rules and passive loss rules.
Welfare benefit plans are employee-sponsored plans that provide employees with benefits other than pension and retirement plans and deferred compensation. Welfare benefit plans include life insurance, health insurance, disability insurance, vacation pay, severance pay, educational reimbursement, group legal services and dependent assistance care plans. This course focuses on federal income tax requirements for various welfare benefit plans, including fringe benefits and health-care continuation coverage under COBRA. Examines the income tax consequences to employers who sponsor, and employees who participate in, welfare plan benefits. Discusses the various mechanisms for offering welfare benefit plans, such as cafeteria plans under section 125 and VEBAs under section 501(c)(9).
An introduction to the basics of bankruptcy law and creditors' rights and an analysis of tax issues that arise.
Covers federal income taxation of S corporations and their shareholders with emphasis on the creation of the S corporation, capital structure, operational alternatives, distributions and liquidations.
This advanced state and local tax seminar consists of discussions of articles written by leading state tax theoreticians and practitioners regarding the present condition and likely future of state taxation in the 21th century. Each student will be expected to moderate at least one group discussion during the semester. The grade will be based on class participation and the completion of one publishable paper on a state tax policy topic of the student's choice, subject to the instructor's approval.
Study of the taxation of basic financial building blocks (equity, debt, options, notional principal contracts and forward contracts) and their various combinations. Financial equivalencies among traditional and derivative instruments that are taxed under widely varying tax regimes. Use of financial instruments to change the timing, character and source of income. Gaps in existing law, possible future tax regimes and emerging financial products.
Students may study an area of particular interest to them, not covered in a significant way elsewhere in the program, via an independent study. To qualify, students must submit a written proposal and obtain the consent of a faculty member who supervises the project. The proposal must be approved by both the supervising faculty member and the program director.