SCHOOL OF BUSINESS

Dean: Dr. M. Barry O'Brien
Associate Dean: Dr. David P. Franck
Faculty: Aniello, Bezmen, Bilbrey, Campbell, Carpenter, Coker, Covington, Crocker, Croteau, B. David, F. David, Dittman, Franck, Holland, M. Hughes, B. Johnson, Kyer, Lawrimore, O'Brien, J. Pompe, Pugh, Rajagopalan, Rao, Riley, Shin, A. Smith, Whicker

VISION STATEMENT

The School of Business at Francis Marion University strives to provide the highest quality baccalaureate and master's degree business programs offered at a small, comprehensive university in the southeastern United States.

Back to Table of Contents

MISSION STATEMENT

Accredited at both the graduate and undergraduate levels, the School of Business at Francis Marion University has a mission of teaching, research, and service. Nearly our entire faculty holds a doctorate in the area in which they teach. Our small classroom environment promotes interaction among students and faculty. We teach students to think logically, communicate effectively, develop an understanding and appreciation of the global business environment, and be guided by high ethical standards. Our students develop conceptual and analytical skills needed to be successful leaders in both private and public institutions. Our internship program and placement efforts actively assist students in finding meaningful jobs. Our faculty conducts research and service activities that enhance the region's economic and industrial development. Most of our undergraduate students major in management, marketing, accounting, finance, business economics, management information systems, or general business and earn a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. Other School of Business students major in economics or computer science and receive a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree. Our graduate students receive a Master of Business Administration degree and may become certified in Health Management. The School of Business seeks students locally and globally of all ages and ethnic backgrounds and serves them in a friendly, considerate manner.

OBJECTIVES

Within this mission, the School of Business recognizes three primary objectives:

1. To provide, through a comprehensive program, broad educational experiences sufficient to prepare students for meaningful and responsive leadership roles in private and/or public institutions.
2. To conduct research appropriate to support the teaching mission of the school and University.
3. To sponsor and conduct service activities that enhances the community's economic and industrial development.

The School of Business offers programs which lead to the following degrees:
 Bachelor of Business Administration
 Bachelor of Arts in Economics
 Bachelor of Science in Economics
 Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Back to Table of Contents

BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM

The degree of Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) offers a major in accounting, business economics, management information systems, finance, general business, management, or marketing.

Students seeking a B.B.A. degree must make formal application to the School of Business for admission to the Bachelor of Business Administration Program prior to taking 300 and 400 level business courses. Application for admission should be filed during the semester in which 36 hours of general education credit and Accounting 201, 202, Business 150, 205, Economics 203, and 204 are completed. Students must have a GPA of 2.0 or higher in these courses or have permission of the school to enroll in 300 or 400 level courses.

MAJOR

The degree of Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) offers a major in accounting, business economics, management information systems, finance, general business, management, or marketing.

Students seeking a B.B.A. degree must make formal application to the School of Business for admission to the Bachelor of Business Administration Program prior to taking 300 and 400 level business courses. Application for admission should be filed during the semester in which 36 hours of general education credit and Accounting 201, 202, Business 150, 205, Economics 203, and 204 are completed. Students must have a GPA of 2.0 or higher in these courses or have permission of the school to enroll in 300 or 400 level courses.

As a requirement for graduation with a Bachelor of Business Administration, a student must have

1. Attained an overall GPA of 2.0 or higher in all courses taken at the University, a GPA of 2.0 or higher in the courses taken in the Department of Business Administration and Economics, and a GPA of 2.0 or higher in major courses.
2. Completed the program assessment examination required in all majors in the School of Business.
3. Completed at Francis Marion University at least 50 percent of the business credit hours required for the B.B.A. degree.

All students seeking the Bachelor of Business Administration degree must complete the following:

Each applicant for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) examination in South Carolina must hold a baccalaureate degree and a minimum of 150 semester hours from a college or university recognized by the South Carolina Board of Accountancy. The 150 hours must include a minimum of 30 hours in accounting and 24 hours in administration courses other than accounting courses. Individuals planning to sit for professional accountancy exams, including graduates of other institutions, should consult with an accounting adviser to prepare a plan for acquiring the necessary courses and hours of credit.

Back to Table of Contents

Back to Table of Contents

MINOR

A minor is business consists of BUS 150, ACTG 201, and ECON 203 plus nine additional hours which must be selected from:

The prerequisites for these courses must be met. Students minoring in Business must declare their minor with the Dean of the School of Business before taking 300-level business courses. Minors must have a 2.0 GPA in the 6 courses taken as their minor.

COLLATERAL

No collateral in the Bachelor of Business Administration Program is offered.

Back to Table of Contents

FOUR-YEAR PLAN FOR ACCOUNTING MAJORS

Back to Table of Contents

ACCOUNTING COURSES (ACTG)

Coordinator: Dr. Brad R. Johnson 

201 Financial Accounting (3) (Prerequisite: Math 111 or higher, CS 150) F, S, SU. The conceptual approach to financial accounting. The income statement, retained earnings statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement are studied with emphasis placed on an understanding of the underlying assumptions, theories, and concepts, as well as a thorough understanding of the basic accounting equation.

202 Managerial Accounting (3) (Prerequisite: 201) F, S, SU. Introduces the planning and control aspects of internal accounting.  Topics include cost systems, cost behavior, direct costing, capital budgeting, decentralized operations, relevant costs, operations budgeting, differential cost, and variance analysis.

320 Accounting Information Systems (3) (Prerequisite: 202) F, SU. An introduction to the design and implementation of a systematic structure for providing information for decision making for both management and others interested in an organizations' operations. It includes data gathering, processing, preparing reports, and controls over the operations or the organization. It includes both manual and computerized systems with emphasis on internal controls.

323 Financial Reporting I (3) (Prerequisite: 202 with grade of C or higher) F, SU. Reviews the accounting cycle, discusses the conceptual framework as a basis for accounting theory, and provides an in-depth study of GAAP in relation to preparation of the financial statements. Topics include the time value of money and accounting for current (and non-current) assets.

324 Financial Reporting II (3) (Prerequisite: 323 with grade of C or higher) S, SU. This course provides an in-depth study of GAAP in relation to preparation of the financial statements, including (1) accounting for current (and non-current) liabilities and stockholders' equity and (2) calculating EPS. Special topics  including accounting for investments, income taxes, pensions, and leases.

325 Cost Accounting (3) (Prerequisite: 202 with grade of C or higher) S, SU. The planning, control, and decision aspects of internal accounting. Topics include cost accumulation and assignment, decentralized operations, and performance measurements.

328 Federal Taxation I (3) (Prerequisite: 202 with a grade of C or higher or permission of the school) F. Emphasizes the study of individual income taxation. Major topics revolve around the determination of taxable income, including filing status, gross income and exclusions, deductions, gains and losses. Other areas of study include the federal tax system and tax research.

421 Concepts of Auditing (3) (Prerequisite: 320, 324 with grade of C or higher and Management 308) F. The various concepts and techniques used to verify the amounts reported on the financial statement are covered, as well as the auditor's report, the concept of internal control, and the code of ethics.

422 Financial Reporting III (3) (Prerequisite: 324 with grade of C or higher) F. An in-depth study in specific accounting issues as­sociated with the preparation of financial statements (e.g., business combinations, consolidated statements and international operations) and some work in not-for-profit financial reporting (e.g., governmental fund accounting).

423 Accounting for Governmental and Not-for-Profit Organizations (3) (Prerequisites: 323 and 324) An in-depth study of the financial accounting and reporting requirements and methods for state and local governments.  Also the unique accounting and reporting practices of hospitals, academic institutions, human service organizations, and other non-business organizations are surveyed.

424 Accounting Theory and Practice (3) (Prerequisite: 324 with grade of C or higher) S. Study of the concepts and principles underlying the procedures and methods used in accounting. Also includes discussion of governmental and not-for-profit accounting.

428 Federal Taxation II (3) (Prerequisite: 328 with a grade of C or higher or permission of the school) S. Generally emphasizes the study of business income taxation. More specifically, it focuses on the application of federal law within the context of the income taxation of (a) regular “C” corporations and their shareholders, (b) “S” corporations and their shareholders and (c) partnerships and their partners.  Topics include the income tax consequences of the formation, operation, consolidation, and termination of business entities.

429 Tax Research (3) (Prerequisites: 328 or permission of the school) F. Focuses on applied research in Federal taxation. It examines (1) primary sources of the tax law (e.g., the Internal Revenue Code, Treasury Regulations and Supreme Court rulings) and (2) various tax research methodologies.  It includes practical written assignments that (a) require application of specific primary sources and (b) must be completed using state-of-the-art, on-line, tax research databases to locate and interpret primary source materials.

Back to Table of Contents

FOUR YEAR PLAN FOR GENERAL BUSINESS MAJORS

Back to Table of Contents

BUSINESS COURSES (BUS)

Coordinator: Dr. David P. Franck

150 Fundamentals of Business (3) F, S, SU. Introduces the fundamental functions and activities of modern business organizations. Topics include: an overview of the economic system, accounting and record keeping, marketing, management, finance, information systems, legal issues, business ethics, and international business. In addition, careers in business and entrepreneurship are considered.

205 Statistical Methods for Economics and Business (3) (Prerequisite: Mathematics 140) F, S, SU, Covers basic statistical concepts and methodology including probability theory with emphasis on the normal and binomial distributions, confidence intervals, tests of hypotheses, and simple linear regression analysis. Use of computer software to solve problems.

206 Legal and Social Environment of Business (3) F, S, SU. Study of the legal environment of business in general with emphasis on ethics, creditor's rights and bankruptcy, business organizations, government regulations, and the protection of property and other interests.

306 Business Law (3) (Prerequisite: 206) S. In-depth study of the uniform commercial code, contracts, sales, commercial paper, secured transactions, agency, employment, and ethics.

458 Strategic Management (3) (Prerequisite: MIS 327, MGT 308 and 351, MKT 331, FIN 341) F, S, SU. The study of how an organization achieves its mission and objectives in an effective and efficient manner in an effort to achieve a competitive advantage. This course will cover the process of strategic management that includes scanning the environment, formulating a strategy, implementing a strategy, and evaluating and controlling the strategy.

475 Internship in Business (3) (Prerequisite: Full acceptance to B.B.A. Program, 2.5 GPA overall, in Business, in major; approval by adviser, coordinator and department chair.) This is an educational strategy integrating classroom studies with work-based learning related to the student's academic curriculum and/or career goals. At the work site, students engage in a series of assignments documented in a learning agreement that is subsequently evaluated.

501 Fundamentals of Accounting (3) (Prerequisite: Admission to the M.B.A. Program or approval of the Dean of the School of Business) SU. An introduction to the accounting process and how it is used to provide information about an organization to those making organizational decisions. Includes examination of both financial and managerial accounting topics. These courses will also be available for seniors from non-business majors. Business 501-Business 507 are to be used to satisfy foundation requirements for entrance into the M.B.A. Program. Business 508 is a topics course designed to allow instructors flexibility in offering electives for the M.B.A. Program.

502 Fundamentals of Economics (3) (Prerequisite: Admission to the M.B.A. Program or approval of the Dean of the School of Business) SU. An introduction to the principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics within the context of a free enterprise economy. Includes examinations of economic concepts and problems associated with economics scarcity and the allocation of resources. Some specific topics include: demand and supply, monopoly, unemployment, inflation, environmental issues, international trade, and money and banking. These courses will also be available for seniors from non-business majors. Business 501-Business 507 are to be used to satisfy foundation requirements for entrance into the M.B.A. Program. Business 508 is a topics course designed to allow instructors flexibility in offering electives for the M.B.A. Program.

503 Fundamentals of Applied Business Statistics (2) (Prerequisite: Admission to the M.B.A. Program or approval of the Dean of the School of Business) SU. An introduction to the basic concepts and methodology including descriptive statistics, probability, common probability, distributions such as the normal and binomial distributions, statistical sampling, statistical estimation and inferences related to means and proportions, simple and multiple linear regression models, and analysis of variance. These courses will also be available for seniors from non-business majors. Business 501-Business 507 are to be used to satisfy foundation requirements for entrance into the M.B.A. Program. Business 508 is a topics course designed to allow instructors flexibility in offering electives for the M.B.A. Program.

504 Fundamentals of Business Law (2) (Prerequisite: Admission to the M.B.A. Program or approval of the Dean of the School of Business) SU. Study of the legal regulatory environment of business. Review of the important aspects of common law, contract law, and the Uniform Commercial Code. These courses will also be available for seniors from non-business majors. Business 501-Business 507 are to be used to satisfy foundation requirements for entrance into the M.B.A. Program. Business 508 is a topics course designed to allow instructors flexibility in offering electives for the M.B.A. Program.

505 Principles of Financial Management (2) (Prerequisite: Admission to the M.B.A. Program or approval of the Dean of the School of Business) SU. An introduction to basic financial tools and techniques used in corporate financial management, including planning, assets management, capital budgeting, capital markets, and international finance. These courses will also be available for seniors from non-business majors. Business 501-Business 507 are to be used to satisfy foundation requirements for entrance into the M.B.A. Program. Business 508 is a topics course designed to allow instructors flexibility in offering electives for the M.B.A. Program.

506 Principles of Information Systems (2) (Prerequisite: Admission to the M.B.A. Program or approval of the Dean of the School of Business) SU. Study of the organizational and management issues related to the application of information systems technology into the firm and the management of information systems technology in business organization. These courses will also be available for seniors from non-business majors. Business 501-Business 507 are to be used to satisfy foundation requirements for entrance into the M.B.A. Program. Business 508 is a topics course designed to allow instructors flexibility in offering electives for the M.B.A. Program.

507 Principles of Management (2) (Prerequisite: Admission to the M.B.A. Program or approval of the Dean of the School of Business) SU. An introduction to the core concepts of management and its role in the development and implementation of business strategy and tactics. These courses will also be available for seniors from non-business majors. Business 501-Business 507 are to be used to satisfy foundation requirements for entrance into the M.B.A. Program. Business 508 is a topics course designed to allow instructors flexibility in offering electives for the M.B.A. Program.

508 Special Topics in Business (1), (2), or (3) (Prerequisite: Admission to the M.B.A. Program or approval of the Dean of the School of Business) (A maximum of four credits in 508 may be taken by undergraduate students) SU. An introduction and treatment of the current research findings and management practices in a specific area of business administration. Topics treated in offerings of the course include developments in the business-related disciplines and in the practice of business administration. Business 508 is a topics course designed to allow instructors flexibility in offering electives for the M.B.A. Program.

509 Principles of Marketing (2) (Prerequisite: Admission to M.B.A. program or approval of the Dean of the School of Business) SU. An introduction to the core concepts of marketing and its key role in development and implementation of business strategy and tactics. These courses will also be available for seniors from non-business majors. Business 501-Business 507 are to be used to satisfy foundation requirements for entrance into the M.B.A. Program. Business 508 is a topics course designed to allow instructors flexibility in offering electives for the M.B.A. Program.

Back to Table of Contents

FOUR-YEAR PLAN FOR BUSINESS ECONOMICS MAJORS

Back to Table of Contents

BUSINESS ECONOMICS COURSES (ECON)

Coordinator: Dr. Ben L. Kyer

203 Introduction to Microeconomics (3) F, S, SU. Introduction to the role of individuals in economic decision-making, the determination of relative prices and output, and problems associated with resource allocation, monopoly, government regulation, and international trade. Freshmen are allowed to take Economics 203 if they have a minimum SAT score of 800 and a projected GPA of 2.0.

204 Introduction to Macroeconomics (3) F, S, SU. Introduction to the operation and behavior of the economy as a whole. Primary focus is the determination of the level of gross domestic product, the inflation rate, and the unemployment rate. Additional topics include interest rates, monetary and fiscal policy, and an introduction to international economics.

250 Introduction to the Basic Principles of Economics (3) (Prerequisite: Education 299) As Needed. Study of microeconomics and macroeconomics within the context of the market economy. Examination of economic problems associated with monopoly, poverty, pollution, unemployment, and inflation. Other topics are government, international trade, money, and banking. Credit may not be applied to any degree offered by the School of Business. Credit toward graduation may not be earned in both Economics 203-204 and Economics 250.

300 Economic History of the United States (3) (Same as History 300) S. Development of business attitudes, institutions, organizations, and technology from the world of the colonial entrepreneur through stages of specialization and integration to the establishment of our modern industrial economy.

310 Intermediate Microeconomic Theory (3) (Prerequisite: 203) F, SU. Application of economic analysis as it relates to decisions by individuals and firms under various market structures. Emphasis is placed on developing analytical skills and on applying consumer and producer theory to decisions of individuals, businesses and government.

320 Intermediate Macroeconomic Theory (3) (Prerequisite: 204) F, SU. Examines the Classical, Keynesian, and IS-LM models of the macroeconomy. The use of monetary and fiscal policy to achieve low rates of inflation and unemployment and an acceptable rate of economic growth is also studied.

321 Money and Banking (3) (Prerequisite: 204) S, SU. Characteristics and functions of money in the modern economy, the Federal Reserve System, and an introduction to financial intermediation, institutions and monetary policy. Emphasis is placed on credit markets, the fractional reserve banking system, and its relationship to financial markets.

323 Urban and Regional Economics (3) (Prerequisite: 203) SU. Study of the growth and development of urban and rural areas of the United States. Topics include industrial, agricultural, and business location; labor migration; urbanization; benefit-cost analysis; and regional objectives and policies.

325 International Economics (3) (Prerequisite: 203) S. International trade and monetary theory including commercial policy, trade restrictions and trade blocs, exchange rate determination, and the balance of payments. Emphasis is on applying economic analysis to international events and issues to improve understanding of how the world economy operates.

340 Environmental and Natural Resources Economics (3) (Prerequisite: 203) F. Examines the relationship between the market system and natural resources. Topics include: economic appraisal of energy policy; resource depletion; economic role of fisheries; pollution control of air, land, and water, regional and global air pollutants; and capital theory.

397 Special Topics in Economics (3) (Prerequisites: Previous economics course or permission of school).  In-depth study of an area of interest in economics. May be taken twice for academic credit with departmental approval.

400 Public Finance (3) (Prerequisite: 203) S. Examines government spending and taxation as they relate to the provision of public goods, the redistribution of income, and the stabilization of the economy.

405 Development of Economic Thought (3) (Prerequisite: 203 and 204) F. Examines the history of economic thought from the Ancient Greeks to John Maynard Keynes, with special emphasis on Adam Smith, Karl Marx, the marginalist revolution, and Alfred Marshall.

410 Labor Economics (3) (Prerequisite: 310) F. Examines the nature of the labor market and problems dealing with labor groups. Topics include history of the labor movement, union structures, labor law, and collective bargaining.

450 Senior Seminar in Economics (3) (Prerequisite: 310, 320) This course is designed for seniors majoring in Economics and will focus on selected economic issues. Emphasis will be placed on reading, discussion, debate, and preparation of reports and papers on the topics chosen.

497 Special Studies (3), (2), or (1) (Prerequisite: Permission of school) As Needed. Open only to juniors or seniors with a GPA of 3.0 or higher in their major courses. A maximum of 3 semester hours may be earned. All individual research projects are reviewed by three faculty members from two different disciplines. May be taken for credit (3 hours) towards the Honors degree by special arrangement.

Back to Table of Contents

FOUR YEAR PLAN FOR FINANCE MAJORS

Back to Table of Contents

FINANCE COURSES (FIN)

Coordinator: Dr. Neil F. Riley

246 Investments and Personal Finance (3) F. Investment alternatives available to the individual. Insurance programs, real estate, and securities. Emphasis on the analysis of securities and the operation of the securities market.

341 Financial Management (3) (Prerequisite: Accounting 201 and 202) F, S, SU. The financial functions of economic entities. Financial analysis, financial planning, current assets management, capital budgeting, obtaining funds from the capital markets, and international finance. Computer applications.

344 Real Estate Finance (3) (Prerequisite: 341 or permission of school) S. Study of basic real estate principles, including land economics and use; property evaluation and appraisal; and the legal, regulatory, and financial aspects of property sales, ownership, and management.

347 Investments I (3) (Prerequisite: 341 and Economics 205) F, SU. Topics include investment media, markets, and objectives. Quantitative methods, including computerized techniques, are applied to risk-return, growth, and valuation analysis. Modern Portfolio Theory is applied. Real stocks are used, enabling students to invest in portfolios that meet their risk-return requirements.

348 Investments II (3) (Prerequisite: Finance 347) This course will provide the student with the skills necessary to evaluate stocks, bonds, and derivative securities and their impact on the investor's portfolio. The course will culminate in a group project that will include a forecast of the overall economy, an industry forecast, and finally an evaluation of the chosen firm.

366 Principles of Real Estate (3) (Prerequisite: Admitted to the School of Business or permission of instructor) An introduction to the study of real estate covering the aspects of owning and using real estate. The course examines the bundle of rights associated with real estate and the transfer of those rights. It focuses on legal instruments, real estate brokerage, financing methods and sources, and investment analysis. This course is useful to individuals seeking to take the salesperson or broker exam.

442 Advanced Corporate Finance (3) (Prerequisite: 341) F. Advanced financial problems encountered by a firm in investments, in management of assets, in obtaining of funds, and in special situations.

443 Financial Institutions and Markets (3) (Prerequisite: 341) S. The application of financial management principles to depository and non-depository financial institutions is studied. Asset/liability management, risk management strategies and techniques, financial markets, and financial instruments are covered. Written case analyses will be required.

450 Cash Management (3) (Admission into the School of Business or permission of school) Designed to further the study of the financial management of a firm's current assets and current liabilities, this course completes the fundamental knowledge and skills required to be a cash manager in a modern business. Completion of this course is one of the requirements for a student to participate in the Certified Cash Management Associate Program.

497 Special Studies (3), (2), or (1) (Prerequisite: Permission of school) As Needed. Open only to juniors or seniors with a GPA of 3.0 or higher in their major courses. A maximum of 3 semester hours may be earned. All individual research projects are reviewed by three faculty members from two different disciplines. May be taken for credit (3 hours) towards the Honors degree by special arrangement.

Back to Table of Contents

FOUR-YEAR PLAN FOR MANAGEMENT MAJORS

Back to Table of Contents

MANAGEMENT COURSES (MGT)

Coordinator: Dr. Robert E. Pugh

308 Management Science and Operations Management (3) (Prerequisite: Business 205) F, S, SU. Applications of hypothesis testing, simple linear regression, and multiple linear regression. Study of the basic operations management aspects of business, including the models of the production system, forecasting of demand, and total quality management. Coverage of the mathematical structure, the solution procedures, and the applications of basic management science models, including linear programming and network modeling. Use of computer software to solve problems.

351 Management of Organizations (3) F, S, SU.  Principles of management, emphasizing the managerial functions of planning and decision-making, organizing, leading, and controlling. Fundamental organizational principles and organizational theory are presented with emphasis on how they affect the management of organizations, domestic and international.

353 Human Resource Management (3) (Prerequisite: 351) F, S. A survey course providing students an introduction to the key functions in the field of human resource management. The course stresses the relevance of strategic HRM to organizational operation and its use in support of strategic organizational goals. Topics include legal issues, recruitment, selection, training, performance appraisal, compensation, benefits and organizational discipline.

355 Production and Operations Management (3) (Prerequisite: 308 and 351) F, S. Study of the production and operations component of business. Topics include capacity and location planning, inventory management, scheduling of jobs and projects, and quality assurance and control. Use of quantitative methods.

357 International Management (3) (Prerequisite: 351) This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to the managerial challenges of international business.

451 Organizational Behavior (3) (Prerequisite: 351) F, S. Study of individuals and small groups within organizations. Topics include personality, leadership, motivation, decision making, groups and teams, behavioral effects of control systems and structural design, and organizational culture.

452 Human Resource Management (3) (Prerequisite: 353) F. Focuses on three sub-areas of Human Resource Management: 1) Equal Employment Opportunity, 2) Wage and Salary Administration, and 3) Recruitment and Selection. Course covers state and federal legislation impacting all topics and exposes students to mechanics of the three areas and how they operate within the firm.

454 Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management (3) (Prerequisite: FIN 341, MKT 331, MGT 351, or permission of school) F, S. Study of the special problems of initiating and managing a small business. Integrates the functions of finance, marketing, and management and stresses the special discipline and characteristics required of the small business entrepreneur.

455 Current Issues in Management (3) (Prerequisite: 351) By arrangement. Exposes students to the latest developments in the field of management. Current topics are pursued, including the areas of international business, social responsibility of business, entrepreneurship and small business, human resource management and labor relations, business strategy, and production and operations management.

497 Special Studies (3), (2), or (1) (Prerequisite: Permission of school) By arrangement. Open only to juniors or seniors with a GPA of 3.0 or higher in their major courses. A maximum of 3 semester hours may be earned. All individual research projects are reviewed by three faculty members from two different disciplines. May be taken for credit (3 hours) towards the Honors degree by special arrangement.

Back to Table of Contents

FOUR-YEAR PLAN FOR MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS MAJORS

Back to Table of Contents

MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS COURSES (MIS)

Coordinator: Dr. Allen E. Smith

Credit toward graduation will be granted only once in those courses in Computer Science and in Management Information Systems that carry identical course titles.

225 Modern Programming (3) (Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in CS 190 or permission of school) F, S, SU. A continuing study of the concepts presented in CS 190. Topics include problem solving, algorithm and program development, data types and operations, objects and classes, arrays, and event-driven programming.

327 Information Systems Fundamentals (3) (Prerequisite: CS 150) F, S, SU. Study of basic systems issues that concern the introduction of technology into the firm and the management of technology-based systems in business organizations.

337 Business Systems Analysis and Design (3) (Prerequisite: 225 and 327) S. Study of systems integration, the analysis of existing systems, and the design of new systems.

347 Business Data Communications (3) (Prerequisite: 327) F, SU. Analysis of technical and management problems and issues associated with the use of data communication technology in business.

447 Data Base Management (3) (Prerequisite: 327) F. Advantages and disadvantages of a DBMS, DASD concepts, applied data structures, data definition language, data manipulation language, hierarchical data models, relational data models, network data models, data base design, operations in an on-line environment, data base administration, and current trends.

457 Management Information Systems (3) (Prerequisite: 327, MGT 351, MKT 331, and FIN 341) F, S, SU. Analysis of problems in planning, developing, and administering information systems in business organizations.

467 E-Commerce – Data Driven Web Application Design (3) (Prerequisite: MIS 447, Management 351, Marketing 331, and Finance 341) F.  E-Commerce focuses on Web-Page design beginning with the development of static web pages and progressing to dynamic web page design and incorporating data base content in the web page using server-side and client-side script languages.

477 Special Topics in Information Systems (3) (Prerequisites: 337, 347, 447, 467) S. A project course in which students will analyze, design, develop and where possible implement a working information system to resolve a real world problem. Students will manage the project and prepare working documentation of the project management activities including time management, resource management, PERT/CPM analysis and Cost/Benefit analysis. In addition students will prepare documentation for use and maintenance of the information system.

497 Special Studies (3) (2) (1) (Prerequisite: 377, 467, 477) S. Open only to juniors or seniors with a GPA of 3.0 or higher in their major courses. A maximum of 3 semester hours may be earned. All individual research projects are reviewed by three faculty members from two different disciplines. May be taken for credit (3 hours) towards the Honors degree by special arrangement.

Back to Table of Contents

FOUR-YEAR PLAN FOR MARKETING MAJORS

Back to Table of Contents

MARKETING COURSES (MKT)

Coordinator: Dr. Kay W. Lawrimore

331 Principles of Marketing (3) F, S, SU. Basic principles of marketing. Emphasis is placed on consumer's role in marketing and on marketing environment. The basic product, place, price, and promotion decisions are examined.

333 Marketing Research (3) (Prerequisite: 331 and Business 205) F. Research methods and procedures in the marketing process; emphasis on the sources of market data sampling, preparation of questionnaires, collection and interpretation of data, and the relation of market research to the policies and functions of the business enterprise.

334 Consumer Behavior (3) (Prerequisite: 331) F. Study of the consumer decision process in the marketing context. Selected concepts from psychology, sociology, anthropology, and other behavioral disciplines are analyzed to develop the student's ability to understand and predict reactions of consumers to marketing decisions.

335 International Marketing (3) (Prerequisite: 331) F, S. Focuses on the role of marketing in today's global economy. Environmental differences among nations will be discussed and emphasis will be placed on the modifications of marketing thought and practices that these environmental differences require. While these important differences will be discussed, world markets where products are becoming standardized will also be emphasized. Topics include corporate organization for international marketing, the nature of marketing information and research in the international arena, and the challenges facing managers who must make international marketing decisions.

338 Personal Selling and Sales Management (3) (Prerequisite: 331 or permission of school) AS. Development of an understanding and appreciation of the personal selling process. Basic sales concepts, principles, and techniques are examined. Personal selling skills are enhanced through discussions, role playing, and sales presentations.

339 Marketing Communications (3) (Prerequisite: 331 or permission of school) SU. In-depth examination of marketing communication tools as they relate to marketing management. Particular topics to be covered include attitude and persuasion strategies, advertising management, direct marketing, and sales promotion.

430 Field Experience in Applied Marketing (1) As Needed. Exposes students to the latest developments in the field of marketing. Emphasizes the role of a marketer as the organization's decision maker. Provides the students with interaction with professional business leaders and experience with the application of marketing theory.

432 Marketing Management (3) (Prerequisite: 331 and 333 or permission of school) S This course is designed to address the challenges of marketing in a rapidly changing environment. Emphasis is placed on analyzing the internal and external marketing environments to extract useful information from raw marketing data. Students will learn to apply knowledge and concepts of marketing, such as product differentiation, market segmentation, and marketing research, in the development of a marketing plan.

440 International Marketing Strategy (3) (Prerequisite: 335) S. Through the use of case analysis and computer simulation, students experience firsthand the complexity of making detailed marketing decisions in a competitively dynamic environment. Students assume responsibility for making decisions regarding prices, distribution, sales force management, and marketing research allocations. Emphasis is placed on integrating marketing research, corporate resources, and industry characteristics to respond to today's problems and to anticipate future problems and opportunities. Focus is on the global market.

497 Special Studies (3), (2), or (1) (Prerequisite: Permission of school) As Needed. Open only to juniors or seniors with a GPA of 3.0 or higher in their major courses. A maximum of 3 semester hours may be earned. All individual research projects are reviewed by three faculty members from two different disciplines.

Back to Table of Contents

NONPROFIT MANAGEMENT COURSES (NPM)

Coordinator: TBA

351 The Nonprofit Sector: Structure and Dynamics (3) (Prerequisite: Junior status or permission of the Program Coordinator) F.  Basic dimensions of the American nonprofit sector, review of theories for its development and its role in society, and overview of the financial and legal aspects of the sector. Examination of the various types of nonprofits, including religious, social services, health care, education and research, advocacy, arts and culture, international, grantmakers, and mutual benefit organizations. Identification  of trends and likely future directions of American nonprofits.

352 Managing the Nonprofit Organization (3) (Prerequisite: 351) S. An introduction to managing and improving the performance of nonprofit organizations in an environment of pressure from stakeholders to rationalize management practices, show measurable outcomes, and keep administrative cost low. Major topics include strategic planning, strategic management, strategic marketing, fund-raising managing, public relations, political support, international opportunities, information technology, financial management, human resource management, and management of legal processes.

ECONOMICS

Coordinator: Dr. Ben L. Kyer

 The School of Business offers three degree programs in economics: (1) a Bachelor of Business Administration degree program with a major in business economics, (2) a Bachelor of Science degree program with a major in economics, and (3) a Bachelor of Arts degree program with a major in economics.

The requirements for the Bachelor of Business Administration degree are described earlier in this chapter. The requirements for the Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees appear below. A complete listing of courses in economics begins on page 145.

MAJOR

The Bachelor of Science degree with a major in economics requires the following:

1. 27 semester hours above Economics 203 and 204, including Business 205 and Economics 310, 320, and 450
2. Completion of two semesters of mathematics, including Mathematics 140 or Mathematics 201
3. English 305
4. Minor/collateral requirements (two options)
    a) two 12-hour collaterals approved by the faculty adviser
    b) an 18-hour minor approved by the faculty adviser

To earn a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in economics, a student must satisfy all requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree and complete a foreign language through 202.

The minimum number of semester hours required in major courses for a major in economics is 30. The minimum number of semester hours in all courses (major and nonmajor) required for the major in economics is 120.

MINOR

A minor in economics requires 18 semester hours and must include Economics 203, 204, 310, and 320.

COLLATERAL

A collateral in economics requires 12 semester hours and must include Economics 203, 204, and either 310, or 320.

FOUR-YEAR PLAN FOR ECONOMICS MAJORS

Back to Table of Contents

COMPUTER SCIENCE

Coordinator: Dr. Margie M. Covington

MAJOR

A major in computer science requires:

1. Major Core (27 semester hours)
    CS 226, 227, 280, 310, 313, 318, 340, 350, 401, and 410
2. Nine hours from CS 330, 360, 420, 425, 430, 437, 440.
3. Three hours of CS 480 - Senior Seminar
4. Math 230, which should normally be completed before taking any computer science course above the 299 level
5. Either CHEM 101-102 or PHYS 201-202 (Physics recommended), together with the accompanying laboratories
6. A minor in applied mathematics consisting of Math 201, 202, 230, 312, and either 203 and 425 or 304 and 305
7. In order to be eligible to register for Computer Science courses at the 300-level or above, students majoring in Computer Science must have obtained a GPA of 2.25 or higher on all courses required in the Computer Science major or minor, and must have an overall GPA of 2.0 or better

No additional minor or collateral is required.

The minimum number of semester hours required in major courses for a major in computer science is 42. The minimum number of semester hours in all courses (major and non-major) required for the major in computer science is 120.

Back to Table of Contents

MINOR

A minor is offered in computer science. 

1. Those wishing the minor oriented toward information systems will complete CS 190, 225, 226, 227, 313, and 430
2. Those choosing the minor oriented toward mathematics will complete CS 226, 227, 313, 318, Math 305 or Math/CS 425 and one additional course above 299 in computer science. A student may count both Math­ematics 305 and Math/CS 425 toward the minor and is encouraged to take both courses
3. Those choosing the minor oriented toward science will complete CS 212, 226, 227, 280, 318, and 425

The prerequisites for these courses must be met.

COLLATERAL

Collateral in computer science requires 12 semester hours in computer science above the 199 level, at least 6 hours of which must be above the 299 level.

OTHER INFORMATION

Credit toward graduation will be granted only once in those courses in Computer Science and in Management Information Systems that carry identical course titles, and in those courses in Computer Science and in Mathematics that carry identical course titles.

Back to Table of Contents

COMPUTER SCIENCE COURSES (CS)

150 Microcomputers and Software Applications I (3) (Prerequisite: Eligibility to take Math 111 [or higher]) F, S, SU. Introduction to microcomputer hardware and software. Topics include computer fundamentals, word processing, electronic spreadsheets, data bases, and other microcomputer application areas. Solutions for several problems using microcomputers and commercial software will be required.

160 Microcomputers and Software Applications II (3) (Prerequisite: 150 or permission of school) F, S, SU. A continuation of 150; students will study additional concepts of microcomputers and microcomputer applications software including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation software, emphasizing more advanced applications and integration of the packages in dealing with typical professional usage.

175 Introduction to Network Use (3) F, S, SU. Introduction to the use of networks. Topics include an overview of network types and terminology: file transfer; use of on-line services, bulletin boards; LANs and the Internet; e-mail; information resources; remote access to host computers; connection via telephone lines; social and ethical issues of networks; and a survey of trends in network development.

190 Programming Fundamentals (3) F, S, SU. Introduction to problem-solving and algorithm development techniques based on the program development process. Study of basic computer concepts and computer systems; elementary data types and date structures; input and output processing; control structures; modular program design; elementary file processing; algorithm design and evaluation. Students will apply these ideas by analyzing specifications, designing solutions, and implementing programs based on this analysis and design.

212 Introduction to FORTRAN (3) (Prerequisite/Corequisite: Math 201 or permission of school) (Same as Math 212) F, S, SU. A study of programming to include input and output procedures, arithmetic and logical operations, DO loops, branching procedures, arrays, declaration statements, and subroutines. Application of these ideas by writing, running, and correcting programs.

225 Modern Programming (3) (Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in CS 190 or permission of school) F, S, SU. A continuing study of the concepts presented in CS 190. Topics include problem solving, algorithm and program development, data types and operations, objects and classes, arrays, and event-driven programming.

226 Programming and Algorithmic Design I (3) (Prerequisite: C or better in 190 or permission of school) F, S, SU. Introduction to problem-solving with algorithm and program development. Includes: problem analysis, algorithm representation and verification, scalar and structured data types, file input and output, techniques for program design, coding, testing, and documentation and basic sorting, and searching algorithms.

227 Programming and Algorithmic Design II (3) (Prerequisite: C or better in 226) F, S, SU. Continuing study of algorithmic design, implementation, and analysis including object oriented design and implementation, abstract data types, stacks, queues, and linked structures.

280 Digital Systems Design (3) (Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in 212, or 227, and a grade of C or better in Math 230) F. Starting from a description of digital circuits regarding as functional blocks, the course leads to a consideration of the logical design of combinational and sequential digital systems. Topics include binary representation of information, gate types, combinational circuit design, counters, registers, arithmetic circuits, sequential circuit design, and programmed logic. Students will gain practical experience by applying lecture material in a hands-on laboratory setting.

310 Computer Architecture and Organization (3) (Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in 280) S. A study of hardware organization, memory addressing and structure, CPU-memory I/O relationships, organization of computer processors, memories, and interconnections. Students will look at processor control, data units, memory structure, microprogramming, the role of assembly language, timing, I/O design, current architectures, and alternate hardware designs. Must have a 2.25 GPA or higher in all courses which are required in the computer science major or minor.

313 Systems Design and Development (3) (Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in CS 226. Pre/corequisite: CS 227 ) F, S, SU. Development of computerized systems focusing on structured systems analysis and its application to information system software development. Emphasis will be on problem analysis, correctness, reliability, and maintainability. Must have a 2.25 GPA or higher in all courses which are required in the computer science major and minor.

318 Data Structures and Algorithm Analysis (3) (Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in 313) F, S. An overview of the structure and implementation of data structures, including lists, trees, heaps, and tables, and an examination of searching, sorting and other algorithms, including implementation and analysis of their efficiency. Must have a 2.25 GPA or higher in all courses which are required in the computer science major or minor.

330 Special Topics in Computer Science (3) (Prerequisite: Permission of school) As Needed. In-depth study of an area of interest in computer science. Different areas of study will be offered. Must have a 2.25 GPA or higher in all courses which are required in the computer science major or minor. Must have a 2.25 GPA or higher in all courses which are required in the computer science major or minor. May be taken twice for academic credit with departmental approval.

340 Software Design and Development (3) (Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in 318 or permission of school) S. Design techniques used in creating large program packages, organization and management of projects, and application of techniques in team projects. Must have a 2.25 GPA or higher in all courses which are required in the computer science major or minor.

350 Theory of Computation (3) (Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in 318 and Math 230) F. Introduction to the abstract concepts encountered in machine computation. Topics include finite automata, regular expressions, and formal languages, with emphasis on regular and context-free grammars. Questions related to decidability and undecidability are looked at by considering various models of computation including Turing machines, recursive functions, and universal machines. Must have a 2.25 GPA or higher in all courses which are required in the computer science major or minor.

360 Introduction to Computer Graphics (3) (Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in 318; Math 304 is strongly recommended) F. Principal topics include graphics devices, vector vs. raster graphics, lines and curves, animation, linear transformations, three-dimensional graphics and wire-frame models, and viewing objects with the synthetic camera. Must have a 2.25 GPA or higher in all courses which are required in the computer science major or minor.

401 Programming Languages (3) (Prerequisite or corequisite: 350) S. Formal language concepts, language syntax and semantics, language design and implementation, data types, data abstraction, control structures, procedure mechanisms, lexical analysis, parsing, and run-time organization as exemplified by a variety of programming languages and paradigms. Must have a 2.25 GPA or higher in all courses which are required in the computer science major or minor.

410 Operating Systems (3) (Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in 310 and 318) F. Sequential processes and concurrent program concepts and their application to operating system design; synchronization constructs: monitors, conditional critical regions, and the use of semaphores; resource concepts, resource allocation and management; dynamic protection and the structure of operating systems. Must have a 2.25 GPA or higher in all courses which are required in the computer science major or minor.

420 Compiler Construction (3) (Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in 318 and 350; prerequisite or corequisite: 401) AF. Syntax and semantic analysis of source and target language; language translation and translators; a one-pass compiler model; phases of a compiler; lexical and syntax analysis; parsing; error recovery; intermediate code generation; code optimization; final code generation. Must have a 2.25 GPA or higher in all courses which are required in the computer science major or minor.

425 Numerical Analysis (3) (Prerequisite: Math 203 and a grade of C or better in one of 212 or 227) (Same as Math 425) F. Techniques and types of errors involved in computer applications to mathematical problems. Topics include techniques for solving equations, systems of equations, and problems in integral calculus. Computer solutions for several problems will be required. Must have a 2.25 GPA or higher in all courses which are required in the computer science major or minor.

430 Data Base Management Systems Design (3) (Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in 313 or permission of school) AS. Close study of the goals of DBMS, various data models and their implementations, normalization, file organization, security, and integrity. Must have a 2.25 GPA or higher in all courses which are required in the computer science major or minor.

437 Artificial Intelligence (3) (Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in 318 and Math 230; 350 is recommended.) AS. An introduction to the fundamental principles of artificial intelligence: problem-solving methods, state-space representation, heuristic search, problem-reduction techniques, machine inference, game-playing, knowledge representation, and cognitive processes. Applications of these concepts to practical problems in society will be considered, looking at such areas as neural networks, expert systems, robotics, natural language processing, and computer vision. Must have a 2.25 GPA or higher in all courses which are required in the computer science major or minor.

440 Computer Networks (3) (Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in 310 and 318) AF. A consideration of the technology and architecture of computer networks, emphasizing principles and concepts of both logical and physical connectivity and communication. Particular attention will be placed on network topology, transmission media, medium access, standards, internetworking, and network management and security.

480 Senior Seminar (3) (Prerequisite: Senior status or permission of school) F, S. Students will be expected to plan, carry out, and present the results of research projects. Faculty and off-campus speakers will be invited to make presentations on current trends in the computer industry including social and ethical issues as well as technical topics. Students will participate in various forms of assessment of their academic preparation. Must have a 2.25 GPA or higher in all courses which are required in the computer science major or minor.

497 Special Studies (3), (2), or (1) (Prerequisite: Permission of school) As Needed. Open only to juniors or seniors with a GPA of 3.0 or higher in their major courses. A maximum of 3 semester hours may be earned. Academic Committee approval required for each seminar and practicum. All individual research projects are reviewed by three faculty members from two different disciplines. Must have a 2.25 GPA or higher in all courses which are required in the computer science major or minor. May be taken for credit (3 hours) towards the Honors degree by special arrangement.

Back to Table of Contents