What’s next for business? Pure profit-oriented approaches to business may fail socially, ethically and economically. Change is a constant in business, including innovation, value creation and responsibility for others. The roles we are asked to play in organizations and in business can and do vary. The desire to innovate drives the entrepreneurial spirit, whether to make money, underwrite a particular lifestyle, do good and/or create jobs for others. The managerial role, in contrast, demands one act on behalf of the best interests of the organization and its stakeholders and serve as the responsible steward for different interests. With multiple roles like these to juggle, how is it possible to find the proper balance, if any, among them? Students will answer these questions for themselves by participating in field trips, seminars, workshops, listening to guest speakers, watching movies and attending lectures.

This program is designed for students who want to build a strong foundation in business. We will take an introductory look at the business disciplines of accounting, finance, management, entrepreneurship, marketing and economics over two quarters. 

Students who successfully complete the program will develop a solid foundation for doing business, creating their own business or nonprofit, or working with or consulting with others founding or growing their own organizations. It will also help those interested in pursuing advanced studies in business or the social sciences, or seeking employment in the private sector, government or nonprofit organizations. Students should also leave the program with a deeper appreciation of emerging issues at the intersection between business and society.

Students will find a basic level of quantitative competence, including the ability to create, use and interpret spreadsheets (e.g., MS Excel), useful. Students who do not yet have these skills will have an opportunity to expand these skills in program assignments.