Business Administration - Management

This course introduces the student to the complexity of the communication process. The student learns business writing strategies and techniques and applies them to two categories of business letters/memos. Students will use word processing computer software to compose, edit and revise assignments. Letters/memos will be assigned and completed in class within prescribed time limits. Each student is required to write an informal, informational report. Emphasis will be placed on research and documentation. As well, students will learn and practice fundamental presentation skills. [hide detail]

The question of how individuals and firms use their scarce resources to attain economic goals is examined. The central problem of scarcity is introduced. A brief study of how different economic systems try to solve this problem is undertaken. The market system is investigated: how supply, demand and price determine what and how much is produced. Elasticity of demand is examined in the context of effectively setting prices for different products. How business firms make decisions and conduct themselves in the marketplace is examined. Price and output termination for firms in pure competition, monopoly, monopolistic competition, and oligopoly is studied using theory and case studies. The economic functions of government in a "mixed" capitalistic system are examined. Applications to current events, such as environmental economics are discussed wherever appropriate. [hide detail]

This course introduces students to the basic principles of the accounting cycle including journal entries, adjusting entries, closing entries, trial balance, income statement, statement of owner#s equity and balance sheet. The course continues to build on these topics by introducing students to the accounting for merchandise operations, cash balances, and capital assets as well as current and long-term assets and liabilities. Accounting for corporations and the statement of cash flows is also examined. Generally accepted accounting principles are discussed throughout the course, as they relate to the specific subject areas. As a final integration, the students will study the analysis of financial statements. [hide detail]

This course provides an introduction to the influence of the manager and the employee on the organization and work. The point of view is managing individual differences for increased productivity and satisfaction. As well, a framework for understanding behaviour in a variety of settings is studied. Case problems are solved by groups using the rational decision-making process. [hide detail]

Demonstrating functional literacy and proficiency in applied computing is critical to business success. This course introduces computers and their applications in business. Computer hardware and software, communication, networking, ethical and security issues are explored. Emphasis will be placed on developing skills in the use of personal productivity tools, and using application software for problem-solving and decision-making. [hide detail]

The overall health of the economy, as measured by gross domestic product, unemployment rates, inflation rates, interest rates, the balance of payments and exchange rates is the prime focus of this course. Keynesian and monetarist theories of income and employment are used as a framework for analyzing government monetary and fiscal policies. The role of the Bank of Canada and the chartered banks in determining the money supply and interest rates is described. Current debates relating to the public debt and supply side economics are evaluated. International economic issues including free trade and the balance of payments are also examined. Wherever appropriate, current events are introduced and topics are reinforced and enhanced through computer applications. Prerequisite: JRSB110 (Econ186). [hide detail]

An introduction to accounting techniques used by managerial decision-makers. After studying cost behavior, students will learn how to apply cost-volume-profit analysis, performance evaluation, pricing methods, budgeting, and relevant cost analysis. They will also learn how to screen capital investment projects. Through a practical case study, students will gain experience in applying the managerial accounting skills learned. Pre-requisite: JRSB115 [hide detail]

This course will explore the nature of the business firm, by understanding the conditions of the business world within which it exists. We will study the business of managing the firm, from organizing to human resource to leading the work force. The course will focus on managing the operations of the firm, including producing goods and services, increasing productivity and quality, designing systems to coordinate and integrate internal activities and recording all business transactions. It will study the marketing, promoting, pricing and distribution of goods and services. Finally, the manager of the business firm needs to make financial decisions for the firm. This is a course that briefly introduces you, the student, to business principles. It is not intended to explore any one business activity in detail. That will come in higher level courses. Therefore, you will have an understanding of the external environmental dynamics that the firm is facing. You will also have an introduction only, to the activities and processes internal to the firm, created by business managers, to strategically position the firm#s activities in the environment. [hide detail]

This course introduces the tools, calculations, and components that are needed to complete a financial plan. Time value of money, financial goal setting, and tax planning concepts are introduced. Concepts and calculations relating to money, credit, and risk management are introduced. The student will understand and calculate the cost of revolving and installment type credit facilities. You will apply the tools and techniques required to purchase and finance a home. The course will also introduce fundamental concepts in investing, including a discussion of mutual funds, stocks, and bonds. Retirement and estate planning concepts, including annuity and retirement income calculations, are discussed. [hide detail]

This course introduces you to the principles of marketing. The key concepts, methods of analysis, strategies, and tactics critical to managing profitable customer relationships in today's dynamic and connected environment are presented. Major emphasis is placed on the marketing mix and its strategic application to an increasingly complex business environment. In particular, the detailed areas of product, promotion, price, and distribution are examined in reference to achieving company objectives. [hide detail]

The focus of the course is to empower the students to succeed in business by displaying how knowledge of the law can give them an advantage. Beginning with an examination of the role lawyers play in advising businesses, students learn how to select an appropriate lawyer. Following the introduction of Canada's legal systems, the course examines how laws are made, who makes laws and how laws are enforced. The Alberta court system is examined. Students are taught how to sue in the Provincial Court, Civil Division and how to collect a judgment. Civil procedure in the Court of Queen's Bench is also examined. The various forms of alternative dispute resolution are reviewed. Constitutional Law, including an examination of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, follows. Human rights legislation is similarly evaluated. The development of tort law is traced, with an emphasis on the tort of negligence. Insurance law is then briefly addressed. The formation and performance of contracts is evaluated. Employment law, including the common law and the relevant legislation, is delineated. Finally, forms of business organizations (sole proprietorships, various types of partnerships and corporate entities) are compared and contrasted. [hide detail]

In this course, students will build on the business writing strategies introduced in COMM121 and COMM122. The course covers expository writing techniques suitable for abstracts and critiques, as well as persuasive writing techniques suitable for business letters and reports. Job search communications (resumes, application letters, and job interviews) are covered in a project that includes team activities as well as individual assignments. Students will research, compile, and interpret data to build an analytical report. They will polish their oral skills by preparing and delivering impromptu oral presentations as well as one formal business presentation. Prerequisite: COMM121 (JRSB 101) Business Communications or equivalent. [hide detail]

Through case studies, interactions and hands-on applications, this course demonstrates how the effective management of information technology and systems can maximize an organization's business capabilities and resources providing a competitive edge in today#s global networked enterprise. The course covers IT systems planning, decision-making and problem solving at operational, tactical and strategic levels. Students will also develop the ability to analyze IT investments, assess benefits and risks, and reasonably align IT investments with broader organizational goals. With a focus on business processes, the course explores strategic enterprise IT applications such as enterprise resource planning (ERP), supply chain management (SCM), customer relationship management (CRM), Accounting and Human Resource applications through exposure to SAP application. A pass in Introduction to IT (JRSB 150) is required to take this course. [hide detail]

Introduces the industry-standard principles for managing projects on time, on budget, and to the organization's satisfaction. This course will cover the entire lifecycle from conceptualization to termination, with emphasis on project scope management, project time management, and project management planning and control. Course will provide the basic tools for successfully managing any type of project regardless of the industry, scope, environment, complexity, culture, or whether it is a public or private project. This course is a core course for the Management Program. There are no pre-requisites to this course, although students should successfully complete Bus Admin Year 1. [hide detail]

Introduction to Strategic Management concentrates on the first phase of the strategic management process # Strategic Analysis. In this phase the ability to conduct a thorough Situational Analysis is critical. To this end the associated theory and analytical tools are emphasized; this also includes a review of financial analysis methodologies. Additionally students are introduced to a business simulation designed to provide the opportunity to apply the acquired analytical skills as well as to integrate the course#s Strategic Management theory. The business simulation#s sophistication also allows the incorporation of learning from a host of other business courses. [hide detail]

This course explores human resource issues and developing systematic processes for aligning strategic human resource management with policies and organizational strategy. Emphasis will be placed on researching, identifying, analyzing, critiquing, assessing, and evaluating human resource issues and best practices that might be be applied to the Alberta business environment. Learners will develop the skills to research, assess, compare, choose, and develop human resource management processes. Through critically analyzing case studies, learners will also learn to apply theoretical knowledge to make solid, practical decisions as business owners and entrepreneurs regarding human resource decisions in everyday business. [hide detail]

In this introductory statistics course, the student will evaluate business problems using descriptive and inferential statistics. Topics will encompass descriptive statistics and data analysis, probability theory, hypothesis testing, and regression analysis. Learning objectives for each topic are reinforced with business problems and/or small case studies. Prerequisite/co-requisite: JRSB150 [hide detail]

This course is focused on the distinctive challenges and issues associated with small business management. The course uses the business knowledge introduced in first year business studies and applies it to owner-manager decision-making in a small firm environment. The course content will contain elements of starting, planning, research and strategic marketing, cash flow management, financing, operation management, and legal considerations that are most important for the small business owner to master. Case studies used in the courses are all based on small business operations. [hide detail]

This course explores concepts and models often associated with effective leadership to give ideas and structure to the students# personal exploration of the meaning of effective leadership. In the process of examining these concepts and models, students will assess their own personal leadership styles and learn how they can develop leadership skills to enhance their own potential. Encouraging congruency between the students# definition of effective leadership and their own behaviours allows the students to present themselves in their leadership roles as genuine and authentic. Because of the nature of this skills# development course, students must be prepared to go beyond the academic/intellectual in order to internalize their learning (learning in the #affective domain#), identify any need for behavioural changes, and actually demonstrate their movement toward skill development. [hide detail]

Advanced Strategic Management expands the theoretical base, established in the Introduction to Strategic Management course, to examine phases two and three of the strategic management process #Strategy Formulation and Strategy Implementation. The Strategy Formulation segment examines the distinction between Business and Corporate level strategy requirements as well as the need to ensure the chosen strategy meets society#s ethical, social responsibility, and environmental sustainability expectations. As part of the Implementation phase, the course stresses that superior strategy execution is another path to gaining competitive advantage. Coupled with this is the need to ensure the strategist develops the confidence to make decisions and develop sound justifications to support one's thinking. To this end the course utilizes a number of case studies and an expanded business simulation that incorporates the development of strategic plans. [hide detail]

The focus of the course is to empower the students to succeed in business by displaying how knowledge of the law can give them an advantage. Beginning with an examination of the role lawyers play in advising businesses, students learn how to select an appropriate lawyer. Following the introduction of Canada's legal systems, the course examines how laws are made, who makes laws and how laws are enforced. The Alberta court system is examined. Students are taught how to sue in the Provincial Court, Civil Division and how to collect a judgment. Civil procedure in the Court of Queen's Bench is also examined. The various forms of alternative dispute resolution are reviewed. Constitutional Law, including an examination of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, follows. Human rights legislation is similarly evaluated. The development of tort law is traced, with an emphasis on the tort of negligence. Insurance law is then briefly addressed. The formation and performance of contracts is evaluated. Employment law, including the common law and the relevant legislation, is delineated. Finally, forms of business organizations (sole proprietorships, various types of partnerships and corporate entities) are compared and contrasted. [hide detail]

In this course, students will build on the business writing strategies introduced in COMM121 and COMM122. The course covers expository writing techniques suitable for abstracts and critiques, as well as persuasive writing techniques suitable for business letters and reports. Job search communications (resumes, application letters, and job interviews) are covered in a project that includes team activities as well as individual assignments. Students will research, compile, and interpret data to build an analytical report. They will polish their oral skills by preparing and delivering impromptu oral presentations as well as one formal business presentation. Prerequisite: COMM121 (JRSB 101) Business Communications or equivalent. [hide detail]

Through case studies, interactions and hands-on applications, this course demonstrates how the effective management of information technology and systems can maximize an organization's business capabilities and resources providing a competitive edge in today#s global networked enterprise. The course covers IT systems planning, decision-making and problem solving at operational, tactical and strategic levels. Students will also develop the ability to analyze IT investments, assess benefits and risks, and reasonably align IT investments with broader organizational goals. With a focus on business processes, the course explores strategic enterprise IT applications such as enterprise resource planning (ERP), supply chain management (SCM), customer relationship management (CRM), Accounting and Human Resource applications through exposure to SAP application. A pass in Introduction to IT (JRSB 150) is required to take this course. [hide detail]

This course is focused on the distinctive challenges and issues associated with small business management. The course uses the business knowledge introduced in first year business studies and applies it to owner-manager decision-making in a small firm environment. The course content will contain elements of starting, planning, research and strategic marketing, cash flow management, financing, operation management, and legal considerations that are most important for the small business owner to master. Case studies used in the courses are all based on small business operations. [hide detail]

Introduction to Strategic Management concentrates on the first phase of the strategic management process # Strategic Analysis. In this phase the ability to conduct a thorough Situational Analysis is critical. To this end the associated theory and analytical tools are emphasized; this also includes a review of financial analysis methodologies. Additionally students are introduced to a business simulation designed to provide the opportunity to apply the acquired analytical skills as well as to integrate the course#s Strategic Management theory. The business simulation#s sophistication also allows the incorporation of learning from a host of other business courses. [hide detail]

This course explores human resource issues and developing systematic processes for aligning strategic human resource management with policies and organizational strategy. Emphasis will be placed on researching, identifying, analyzing, critiquing, assessing, and evaluating human resource issues and best practices that might be be applied to the Alberta business environment. Learners will develop the skills to research, assess, compare, choose, and develop human resource management processes. Through critically analyzing case studies, learners will also learn to apply theoretical knowledge to make solid, practical decisions as business owners and entrepreneurs regarding human resource decisions in everyday business. [hide detail]

In this introductory statistics course, the student will evaluate business problems using descriptive and inferential statistics. Topics will encompass descriptive statistics and data analysis, probability theory, hypothesis testing, and regression analysis. Learning objectives for each topic are reinforced with business problems and/or small case studies. Prerequisite/co-requisite: JRSB150 [hide detail]

This course introduces students to key topics in starting up astore-based retail business. Students will gain applied skills by preparing business plan components for a new retail business enterprise. Lectures will expose students to the entrepreneurial environment, marketing principles, financial concepts, legal issues and funding sources for a small retail business. Also, since the focus will be on a store-based retail startup business, key areas that apply to retail will include location analysis, category management, the development of a merchandise budget, retail pricing and finance. [hide detail]

Introduces the industry-standard principles for managing projects on time, on budget, and to the organization's satisfaction. This course will cover the entire lifecycle from conceptualization to termination, with emphasis on project scope management, project time management, and project management planning and control. Course will provide the basic tools for successfully managing any type of project regardless of the industry, scope, environment, complexity, culture, or whether it is a public or private project. This course is a core course for the Management Program. There are no pre-requisites to this course, although students should successfully complete Bus Admin Year 1. [hide detail]

Innovation is critical to business success in both good and bad economic times. This innovation is often linked with entrepreneurship and new venture creation endeavours. This course focuses on the nature and role of the entrepreneur and the core components of the process of new venture creation particularly for high potential ventures. First, the course explores the role that entrepreneurs play in society by examining the attitudes, behaviours, and leadership of successful entrepreneurs. Next, the course examines in depth the process of creating new ventures. It looks at the process of getting a new venture started, grown, and harvested. It is guided by a process that includes balancing opportunity recognition, resource gathering, and team building particularly as these are found in high growth venture initiatives. Underpinning these topics is the study of the business planning process so students effectively can critique business plans. No 2nd year prerequisites are required. [hide detail]