Operations management involves managing and coordinating how goods and services are provided. Professionals in this field plan, direct, and coordinate the operations within an organization. They apply knowledge of many areas such as project planning, operations research, human behavior analysis, supply chain, and economics in order to make operational decisions. Many campus-based and online universities offer operations management degrees. Online programs offer a convenient and flexible learning environment for students with busy schedules. These programs may be less expensive than traditional campus based programs. Along with that, online programs save travel time and costs associated with campus based programs. Earning an operations management degree online allows students to maintain a full or part-time job while completing their courses. The course material is available online, and they are able to complete and turn in assignments through online tools.
An operations management degree offers an in-depth knowledge of business management and its real-world applications. The course content covers various management concepts applied to organizational and production processes. Various certificate programs along with associate, bachelor, master, and doctorate level degrees are offered in operations management.
Bachelor of Science in Operations Management
Degree Objectives
An online Bachelor of Science in operations management prepares graduates for careers in business areas such as production planning, industrial engineering, inventory control, production supervision, and quality control. By the end of the program, it aims to instill the following in candidates:
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To prepare graduates for master's level programs such as master's degree in operations management
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To enable candidates to demonstrate understanding of functional areas of accounting, finance, marketing, and economics
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To enable candidates to demonstrate knowledge of legal and social environment of business
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To prepare graduates to communicate effectively
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To enable graduates to apply business knowledge and concepts in an integrated manner
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To enable students to work effectively in groups and teams
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To demonstrate knowledge of fundamental concepts of operations management
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To demonstrate knowledge of approaches to improvement of operational performance
Curriculum
The curriculum usually includes courses in communication, humanities, mathematics, science, social science, business, management, and general electives. The coursework usually includes the following:
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English Composition
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Argumentative Writing
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Technical Writing
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Humanities
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Ethics in Profession
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Globalization
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World Politics in Transition
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Principles of Microeconomics
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Principles of Macroeconomics
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Algebra
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Finite Mathematics and Calculus
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Psychology
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Organizational Behavior
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Managerial Accounting
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Marketing
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Business Law
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Business Research Methods
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Service Management
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Operations Management
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Management Information Systems
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Decision Support Systems
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Finance
Career Outlook
Upon graduating, graduates could work in manufacturing, manufacturing engineering, production control, and quality assurance departments within various organizations. They may also pursue a specific career in operations management after obtaining advanced degrees in business or operations management programs.
Operations managers plan, direct, and coordinate tasks including formulating policies. The job responsibilities of operations managers are diverse. These professionals may work with several department managers to assist in the flow and quality of work in every business area. They manage daily operations of the organization and plan the utilization of resources. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage of operations managers was $95,440 in May 2012.