Opus College of Business has announced a new Master of Science in Management (MSM), the first program of its kind in the Upper Midwest. Designed for current students and recent non-business graduates, this 10-month hybrid program integrates students' unique undergraduate interests with core business and management knowledge, creating a pathway to accelerate their early careers.
With the inaugural cohort starting in fall 2024, students from liberal arts and STEM majors will have the opportunity to leverage their disciplinary knowledge with essential business know-how, making them even more valuable in today's job market.
Building a bridge between specialist knowledge and business acumen
The new program developed in response to the changing needs of today's business world. More than ever, employers are looking for high-potential, entry-level job candidates who not only excel in their core disciplines, but also have knowledge of business dynamics.
“Most companies don't train you in business terms and mechanics,” said one Twin Cities hiring manager. “Employees today need knowledge of both technical skills for day-to-day work and an understanding of corporate strategy.”
A recent survey of non-professional students at St. Thomas expressed considerable interest in the new program, citing greater opportunities for career prospects. A mechanical engineering student saw it as a stepping stone to his future career at a medical device company, while a liberal arts student saw an opportunity to advance his management and leadership skills for higher graduate earnings.
Cooperative learning with real-world relevance
With a balanced mix of online and face-to-face courses, MSM's curriculum is structured to be flexible and deeply engaging. Beyond theory, students will be immersed in realistic business simulations, real-world case studies and hands-on projects.
“This comprehensive curriculum was designed specifically with liberal arts and STEM students in mind. It provides an interdisciplinary course set that begins by teaching students basic business concepts and gradually guides them toward practical business applications, emphasizing critical thinking, creative problem solving, and ethical business considerations,” said Julia Van Etten, MBA, academic chief, MS in. Management.
Beginning in their senior year, students can begin the program by enrolling in asynchronous online courses in business fundamentals. Students will gain a solid understanding of basic business functions and the terminology required to communicate effectively in a business environment.
In an engaging simulation, for example, students step into the shoes of a coffee shop owner, making critical decisions that affect profits, customer experiences, team morale and employee well-being. With VR headsets, students immerse themselves in the details of managing their virtual cafe, gaining knowledge through hands-on experimentation. Instructors provide guidance, both before and after each simulation, ensuring students can directly apply their learning in the classroom in a real-time, gamified VR environment.
This immersive learning style fosters skills such as adaptability, creativity and collaboration – qualities that are sought after in today's job market. The primary goal is to empower students with the skills needed to create and run a thriving and profitable business while making ethical and sustainable choices.
After a weeklong business presence workshop in early September, students will dive into core cohort-based courses that emphasize teamwork, inclusive leadership, and ethical and data-informed decision-making. The spring semester focuses on real-world applications, including a business consulting project for a local organization. To complete their education, students can choose from electives that align with their individual interests.
Complementing the academic journey, the MSM program ensures students are well prepared for the next steps in their careers by offering career workshops, mentoring and connections with alumni and industry professionals to build a strong support network. This aspect ensures that students are not just academically enriched, but are also well prepared to successfully navigate the competitive job market.
“This groundbreaking program reflects the ongoing commitment of the University of St. Thomas to meet the changing needs of our students and the companies that will hire them,” said Opus College of Business Dean Laura Dunham. “Students coming out of this program will be equipped with the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to follow their passions and make an immediate impact in whatever field they choose to pursue.”
The program will begin recruiting this fall, with the first cohort starting in September 2024. Students in their senior undergraduate year can begin with the online business core courses available in the spring or summer. The application is now open, with information sessions starting in October.
