Programs of Study

Business Administration

The Leeds School of Business holds accreditation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB-International). Leeds awards four types of degrees:

bachelor of science (BS)
master of science (MS)
master of business administration (MBA)
doctor of philosophy (PhD)

Knowledge and Abilities of Business Students

The following areas of knowledge are central to the undergraduate degree in business administration:

knowledge of core business concepts that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the basic functional areas of the discipline;
knowledge in one or more of the four areas of emphasis, in which students are exposed to in-depth study that provides them with the tools necessary to solve complex business problems;
awareness of the interrelations between academic theory and practice in order for students to be fully equipped to make effective decisions;
strong verbal and written communication skills, proficiency in business computer applications and knowledge of international business environments;
knowledge of mathematics sufficient to facilitate the application of quantitative principles; and
awareness of the importance of academic fields in the area of arts and sciences, with special emphasis placed on the study of economics, political science and other related fields.

In addition, students completing a degree in business administration are expected to acquire:

the ability to apply basic business principles to solve problems in new and recurring situations;
the ability to conceptualize and analyze decision-making situations to facilitate solutions in an effective and timely manner; and
the ability to effectively communicate the results of problem-solving situations, both verbally and in writing.

Having acquired these skills and knowledge, students are able to conceptualize and analyze the concept of business and problem solving as a system. They have the ability to present solutions to business problems in an understandable and useful form. Their education provides them with excellent working knowledge, not only in the field of business, but also in related academic disciplines.

Advising and Records

Undergraduate business students receive academic counseling from a staff of professional advisors in the Office of Undergraduate Student Services. During the semester, advisors are available in KOBL S220, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., by appointment.

Students are expected to assume responsibility for planning their program in accordance with college rules and policies. Students are encouraged to discuss the various emphases available as well as career opportunities with the faculty of the college.

Minor in Business

Curriculum

In 2013 the Leeds School of Business launched a 12-credit Business Minor so that all CU Boulder students could gain business fundamentals, increasing their immediate impact as new hires. Through our first two modular courses (BUSM 2001, 2002) students are introduced to the essential elements of Marketing, Management, Accounting and Finance. Students then choose between one of four business track options: Innovation, Analytics, Entrepreneurship or Global Business (BUSM 3001, 3002, 3003, 3004). While not required, student may complete multiple tracks for increased breadth of application. Finally, students complete their minor with a capstone course that focuses on business development (BUSM 4001). Students participate in a business competition followed by a celebratory graduation where competition winners are recognized by Leeds and the local business community.

Business Minor courses are available during fall and spring semesters only, which the Global Business track being the exception. Our Global Business track occurs abroad during Maymester and is available to a select few.

Application Process

Fall Admission Deadline: March 15

Spring Admission Deadline: October 15

We receive many more qualified applicants than spots available; apply early for favorable admission.

The program takes a minimum of three semesters to complete; it is recommended that you apply before your junior year, but no later than first semester junior year.

The admissions process consists of an online application and a one-page resume. To be eligible for admission students must have a minimum of 12 completed CU credit hours, a 2.0 GPA, be in good academic standing and have earned at least a C- in a preapproved statistics or calculus course. Students currently enrolled in a pre-approved statistics or calculus course may apply and be conditionally admitted pending final course grade.

Fees

Students accepted into the Business Minor must pay a $500 per course fee, or $2000 for the 4-course/12-credit program.

Learn More

Students can obtain further information about the Business Minor at www.colorado.edu/leeds/minor-business.

Bachelor's Degree Program(s)

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BS)

All business students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business administration must complete the prescribed courses in at least one area of emphasis. The school offers programs in four areas of emphasis: accounting, finance, management and marketing. An area of emphasis consists of a minimum of 18 semester hours taken at the University of Colorado Boulder. A cumulative grade point average of 2.00 is mandatory for the required area of emphasis courses and all courses must have a grade of C- or higher.

In addition to the area of emphasis, students also may complete an area of application. The school offers the following areas of application: entrepreneurship and small business management, international business and real estate. An area of application consists of a minimum of 9 semester hours taken at the University of Colorado Boulder. A 2.00 cumulative GPA is required for the required area of application courses. Successful completion of additional requirements in some of these areas of application entitles students to a certificate issued by the dean of the college.

Areas of Emphasis

Accounting

The accounting area of emphasis prepares students for careers in which they will develop, analyze and interpret complex financial data. Accounting majors become experts in “the language of business.” This expertise prepares them for careers in CPA firms, business consulting, industry (from Fortune 500 companies to small entrepreneurial enterprises), not-for-profit enterprises or government. Accountants who pursue careers in public accounting might become partners in public accounting and consulting firms. Those who begin their careers in industry might have positions as a chief executive officer (CEO), chief financial officer (CFO), chief accounting officer (CAO) or controller, tax specialist, internal auditor, accounting systems analyst, financial analyst or managerial accountant. Many students begin their careers in public accounting firms and move to industry or government after several years of experience. Employers seek students with skills in communication, interpersonal interactions, analytical thinking, problem solving and integrity.

The major branches of study in the accounting area of emphasis are 1) Financial Accounting / Analysis and Audit, and 2) Tax Planning and Compliance. Basic coursework in accounting focuses on developing a comprehensive understanding of the theory and concepts underlying the presentation of financial and operating information about an enterprise to external and internal users. Additional course work exposes the student to income taxation of business enterprises and individuals, the practice and principles of auditing and assurance services and cost management. Specialization is available through graduate work.

Professional Certification as a CPA or CMA

Most accounting students from the University of Colorado earn professional credentials within a year or two of receiving their degrees. The two most widely-recognized professional certifications are the certified public accountant (CPA) and certified management accountant (CMA).

The CPA is a state-granted license, for which each state sets its own requirements. All states require 150 total credit hours of study to be licensed as a CPA, thus earning a degree with only 120 credit hours will not meet licensure requirements. Although the CPA requirements of most states have similar components, the specifics of those requirements differ greatly. Most states set requirements for the following before a CPA license will be granted:

background checks
education
CPA Exam passage
work experience

Not only do state requirements differ greatly from one state to another, those requirements frequently change. It is very important that the accounting student obtain the guidelines for the relevant state to ensure proper development of his or her degree plan (see NASBA.org or the website of the particular state’s board of accountancy).

The CPA license is a legal requirement for someone to perform financial statement audits, but is not legally required to perform other kinds of accounting work. It is important to note, however, that many professional accounting positions set CPA licensure as a job requirement even where it is not legally required, thus a CPA license is a valuable credential for any accounting professional. As a result, most students completing an accounting emphasis at Leeds continue into the concurrent bachelor’s and master’s degree program (see MSBA program) to seek their CPA license.

The CPA’s expertise typically focuses on presentation and analysis of financial information for an external user. The CMA’s primary focus is improving information for the internal user. Professional accountants’ expertise in financial matters and their understanding of company operations through financial information prepare them to become key players and critical decision makers for all aspects of business creation, operation and transformation.

As is the case at most colleges and universities, simply meeting the requirements to receive a degree with an undergraduate emphasis in accounting at Leeds will not necessarily meet all of the specific requirements for CPA licensure of any particular state including Colorado. Prior to being licensed, a candidate must be granted permission by a state's board of accountancy to take the CPA Examination. As with the overall requirements for licensure, the specific requirements and timing when students can take the exam differ greatly for different states, all of which makes it crucial for the student to develop the degree plan in conjunction with applicable state requirements.

The CMA is a different type of certification because it not granted by a state, but rather by the Institute of Management Accountants, which is a professional organization. The requirements are the same regardless of where an applicant lives. The website for the Institute of Management Accountants provides information about becoming a Certified Management Accountant. Though not legally required for any kinds of positions in any state, the CMA is also a valuable professional credential.

There are two degree options at the bachelor’s level.

BS in Business Administration: Accounting Emphasis

This degree may be earned by a student who takes 18 hours of accounting beyond the core. The 18-hour requirement for the degree does not meet the educational requirements to be licensed as a CPA in any state. This option might be chosen by a student who does not want to become professionally certified, but who seeks a career involving accounting and financial analysis in industry, government or not-for-profit enterprises. This also might be chosen by a student choosing a dual emphasis, such as accounting and finance or accounting and information systems.

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

ACCT 3220 Corporate Financial Reporting 1—3
ACCT 3230 Corporate Financial Reporting 2—3
ACCT 3320 Cost Management—3
ACCT 3440 Income Taxation of Individuals—3
ACCT 4850 Senior Seminar: Accounting Ethics—3

Plus 3 credit hours from the following courses:

ACCT 4240 Advanced Financial Accounting—3
ACCT 4250 Financial Statement Analysis—3
ACCT 4330 Advanced Cost Management—3
ACCT 4540 Accounting Information Systems—3
ACCT 4620 Auditing and Assurance Services—3
ACCT 4800 Accounting for Government and Nonprofit Organizations—3
ACCT 4820 Special Topics: ACCT & FNCE for Energy Ind.—3
ACCT 4827 Integrated Reporting for Socially Responsible Strategies—3

BS in Business Administration: Accounting Emphasis, enhanced by additional course work required to meet state CPA licensure requirements

All states require 150 total credit hours for licensure as a CPA and most require additional accounting and other business courses. Most states do not require a master's degree. Thus, one route to licensure is obtain a BS with an accounting emphasis, but take additional course work to meet the specific requirements of the state(s) where the student expects to practice. Students can generally find the current requirements for a particular state at the website for that state's board of accountancy, or at NASBA.org. It is possible that one or more courses that a state requires for CPA certification is not available to undergraduates at the University of Colorado Boulder; in such a case the student could take those courses either in person or online at a different institution.

Finance

The finance area of emphasis has been designed to provide students with in-depth theoretical and applied exposure to the techniques and concepts useful for entry-level positions in various areas of financial management. The principal areas of study include business financial management, investments and derivative securities and financial markets and institutions.

Finance is an applied discipline with an analytical orientation. Courses in finance serve to develop students’ abilities to think logically about financial problems and to formulate sound financial decisions and policies. Although the emphasis is on financial management of for-profit organizations, the principles and concepts developed are also applicable to not-for-profit and governmental organizations.

Students with a finance emphasis must take 18 hours of finance courses beyond the BCOR sequence. Students interested in a finance area of emphasis should plan to take FNCE 2010 during their sophomore year.

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

FNCE 2010 Fundamentals of Financial Analysis—3 (prereqs., BCOR 1025, 2002 and Math 1112)
FNCE 3010 Corporate Finance—3 (prereqs., BASE 2101, 2102, 2103, 2104 and FNCE 2010 minimum grade: C)
FNCE 3030 Investment and Portfolio Management—3 (prereqs., BASE 2101, 2102, 2103, 2104 and FNCE 2010 minimum grade: C)
ACCT 3220 Corporate Financial Reporting I—3 (prereqs., BCOR 2001, 2002, 2003)
FNCE 4040 Derivative Securities—3 (prereqs., FNCE 3010 and FNCE 3030)
FNCE 4850 Senior Seminar in Finance—3 (prereqs., FNCE 3010 and FNCE 3030)

The required courses represent a minimum requirement for competence in financial analysis and decision-making. Combinations of the upper division elective finance courses allow students to structure their learning in preparation for specific career paths.

FNCE 4000 Financial Institutions Management—3 (prereqs., FNCE 3010, FNCE 3030)
FNCE 4050 Capital Investment Analysis—3 (prereqs., FNCE 3010)
FNCE 4060 London Seminar in International Finance and Business—variable credit (prereqs., BASE 2101, 2102, 2103, 2104)
FNCE 4070 Financial Markets and Institutions—3 (prereqs., FNCE 2010)
FNCE 4820 Experimental Course—3 (prereqs., 2010)
FNCE 4820 Special Topics: Fixed Income Securities—3 (prereqs., FNCE 3010, FNCE 3030)
FNCE 4826 Experimental Seminar: Corporate Governance—3 (prereqs., FNCE 3010)
FNCE 4830 Seminar in Investment Banking—3 (prereqs., admission is by application)
FNCE 4831 Seminar in Investment Management—3 (prereqs., FNCE 3010, FNCE 3030)
APPM 4720 Mathematical Finance—3 (prereqs., FNCE 3010, FNCE 3030)
ESBM 4570 Entrepreneurial Finance—3 (prereqs., BASE 2101, 2102, 2103, 2104)
INBU 4200 International Financial Management—3 (prereqs., BASE 2101, 2102, 2103, 2104)
REAL 4100 Real Estate Finance and Investment Analysis—3 (prereqs., REAL 3000)

Investment Banking Track – In addition to the required courses, students interested in a career in investment banking should consider taking the following courses:

FNCE 4830 Seminar in Investment Banking
ACCT 3230 Corporate Financial Reporting 2
FNCE 4050 Capital Investment Analysis

Investment Management Track – In addition to the required courses, students interested in a career in investment management should consider taking the following courses:

FNCE 4050 Capital Investment Analysis
FNCE 4831 Seminar in Investment Management
FNCE 4820 Special Topics: Fixed Income Securities

Commercial Banking Track – In addition to the required courses, students interested in a career in commercial banking should consider taking the following courses:

FNCE 4000 Financial Institutions Management
FNCE 4820 Special Topics: Fixed Income Securities
FNCE 4070 Financial Markets and Institutions

Corporate Finance/Consulting Track – In addition to the required courses, students interested in a career in corporation finance should consider taking the following courses:

ESBM 4570 Entrepreneurial Finance
ACCT 3230 Corporate Financial Reporting 2
FNCE 4050 Capital Investment Analysis

Entrepreneurial Finance Track – In addition to the required courses, students interested in a career in entrepreneurial finance should consider taking the following courses:

ESBM 4570 Entrepreneurial Finance
INBU 4200 International Financial Management
FNCE 4826 Experimental Seminar: Corporate Governance

Personal Financial Planning Track (PFP) – Program includes six courses, with two required courses, FNCE 4040 and FNCE 4850 waived, see below.

FNCE 2820 Introduction to Personal Financial Planning
ACCT 3440 Personal Income Taxation
FNCE 3040 Insurance, risk management, and retirement planning (note: replaces FNCE 4040 Derivatives)
FNCE 3060 Estate Planning
FNCE 4840 Personal Financial Plan Development (note: replaces FNCE 4850 Capstone)

Management

The Management Area of Emphasis addresses the effective management of people, organizations, operations, information and technology to improve the performance of diverse private and public organizations. A management emphasis provides students with the managerial skills necessary for success in entry-level positions, and builds foundations for success in management positions of greater responsibility, authority and leadership. Students completing the management area of emphasis are viewed by potential employers as having the broad-gauged education required in the team-oriented, horizontally organized and globally competitive environments of the 21st century. The management area of emphasis prepares students for careers managing people, operations, information and technology, and can serve as a strong complement to a second area of emphasis.

Management students must choose one of three tracks: the first emphasizes human resource management; the second focuses on the management of operations; and the third emphasizes the management of information.

Talent Management Track

The talent management track provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to earn certification in human resources from the Society of Human Resources, the principal professional society in the field. Graduates are qualified to act as human resource generalists in small, medium and large companies; specialists in organizations with focused human resource units; or well-rounded general managers in any organization. There are three required courses in the HR Management track:

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

MGMT 3030 Critical Leadership Skills—3
MGMT 4040 Individual, Team and Org. Development—3

In addition, students in the talent management track must complete three of the following elective courses:

MGMT 3010 Negotiation and Conflict Management—3
MGMT 4010 Redefining the Employee-Employer Relationship—3
MGMT 4020 Hiring and Retaining Critical Human Resources—3
MGMT 4030 Managing Employee Reward Systems—3

Required Senior Capstone Course:

MGMT 4850 Senior Seminar in Management—3

Students focusing on talent management are also encouraged to take INBU 4300 International Management.

Information Management Track

Advances in business knowledge and technology have radically changed business systems and processes. As a result, critical to today’s businesses is the ability to get the right information to the right people at the right time, so that both strategic and operational decisions are made properly and quickly. Students majoring in information management will learn to recognize the pivotal roles that information systems play in the business world and to use their knowledge to increase business competitiveness. They are exposed to a range of tools, methods and techniques for addressing issues such as the selection and implementation of new technologies and the creation of processes that effectively connect with customers, suppliers, and distributor channels. Students are prepared to be leaders in the effective utilization of information in business. There are three required courses in the Information Management track:

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

MGMT 3030 Critical Leadership Skills—3
MGMT 3200 Business Analytics—3
MGMT 4850 Strategy—3

In addition, students in the Information Management track must complete three of the following elective courses:

MGMT 3210 Business Application Programming—3
MGMT 4205 Business Data Management—3
MGMT 4210 Systems Thinking—3
MGMT 4220 Business Technologies—3
MGMT 4230 Design of Usable Business—3
MGMT 4140 Project Management—3

IM students inclined toward careers in technical information systems are encouraged to take programming courses as non-business electives (such as CSCI 1300 Programming or ATLS 3519 Applied Java Programming).

Operations Management Track

The principal function of any organization is the efficient creation and delivery of products and services to its customers (operations). The operations management track focuses on this creative process and identifies how organizations use productivity, quality, flexibility, timeliness and technology to compete and prevail in their markets. Students graduating from the operations management track will have a broad understanding of the importance of operations in the success of any organization, and will be qualified to serve in entry-level line management positions and as general managers later in their careers. There are three required courses in the Operations Management track:

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

MGMT 3030: Critical Leadership Skills—3
MGMT 3100: Operations Management—3
MGMT 4110: Supply Chain Management—3

In addition, students in the Operations Management track must complete two of the following elective courses:

MGMT 4120: Managing Business Processes—3
MGMT 4130: Sustainable Operations—3
MGMT 4140: Project Management—3
MGMT 4150 or INBU 4151: International Operations–3; only one can apply to the OPS area
MGMT 4820: Decision Modeling–3

Required Senior Capstone Course:

MGMT 4850: Senior Seminar in Management—3

Students focusing on Operations are also encouraged to take MGMT 4150 International Operations.

Strategy & Entrepreneurship Track

Required Courses for the Strategy & Entrepreneurship Track:

ESBM 3700: Entrepreneurial Environments—3
ESBM 4830: Venture Planning—3

Choose Three of the Following Strategy & Entrepreneurship Track Elective Courses:

CESR 4828/MGMT 4828: Corporate Boards in Action—3
ESBM 4570: Entrepreneurial Finance—3
INBU 3300: International Management—3
MGMT 3030: Critical Leadership Skills—3
MGMT 4020: Hiring and Retaining Critical Human Resources—3
MGMT 4030: Managing Employee Reward Systems—3
MGMT 4040: Individual, Team, & Organizational Development—3

Required Senior Capstone Course:

MGMT 4850: Senior Seminar in Management—3

*additional Entrepreneurship (ESBM), Management (MGMT) and other courses may be taken as Business Electives

Leadership Track

Required Courses for the Leadership Track:

MGMT 3030: Critical Leadership Skills—3
MGMT 4040: Individual, Team and Org. Development—3

Choose three of the following Leadership Track Elective courses:

CESR 4000/4001: Leadership Challenges I & II - Exercises in Moral Courage—3
MGMT 4828/CESR 4828: Corporate Boards in Action—3
INBU 3300: International Management—3
MGMT 3010: Negotiation and Conflict Management

Required Senior Capstone Course:

MGMT 4850: Senior Seminar in Management—3

*additional Management (MGMT) courses may be taken & applied to Business Electives

Marketing

The marketing area of emphasis hones skills in analysis and decision-making for a wide spectrum of marketing careers in fields such as advertising, market research, brand management, e-business, selling and sales management, distribution, industrial and business-to-business marketing, international marketing, the marketing of services and marketing for not-for-profit organizations.

Marketing strategies are essential to the communication and sale of both products and services. They are applied across consumer and business markets, across domestic and global boundaries and across traditional and electronic business environments. Key concepts focus on identifying customer needs and wants, developing products and/or services to satisfy these needs and wants, establishing channels and communications to move products and services through intermediaries to end users and monitoring transactions and customer responses to guide future activities.

Students with a marketing emphasis must take 18 hours of marketing courses beyond BCOR 2001 or 2400. Students pursuing a marketing emphasis will need three semesters to complete the required course work after taking BCOR 2001 or 2400. The required courses are:

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

MKTG 3250 Buyer Behavior (prereq., BCOR 2001 or 2400)—3
MKTG 3350 Marketing Research (prereq., BCOR 2001 or 2400)—3
MKTG 4250 Product Strategy (prereqs., MKTG 3250 and 3350)—3
MKTG 4300 Pricing and Channels of Distribution (prereqs., MKTG 3250 and 3350)—3
MKTG 4550 Advertising and Promotion Management (prereqs., MKTG 3250 and 3350)—3
MKTG 4850 Senior Seminar in Marketing (prereqs., any two of MKTG 4250, 4300 and 4550, with the remaining one of these courses taken as a corequisite)—3

Areas of Application

Center for Education on Social Responsibility (CESR)

Certificate in Socially Responsible Enterprise (SRE)

CU-Boulder’s Leeds School of Business is one of the few undergraduate business schools in the nation that emphasizes socially responsible conduct in business throughout its curriculum. CESR helps undergraduate students become outstanding business leaders of tomorrow by preparing them to meet the ethical challenges posed by an increasingly competitive, globally-connected business world.

CESR offers the Certificate in Socially Responsible Enterprise (SRE) to business students who seek to distinguish themselves in the field of socially responsible business, whether their unique interests lie in environmental sustainability, social entrepreneurship, corporate ethics or values-driven leadership. Students who complete the certificate will develop the practical knowledge and marketable experiences that will distinguish them as business professionals who strive to make a positive social impact. Interested students need to register with the CESR office and must graduate with a 3.00 GPA.

General Courses

It is recommended that students complete 6 hours (2 courses) in the areas of philosophy, environmental studies, political science, economics, communication, civil engineering or sociology from the following list. Check prerequisites before enrolling.

Recommended Courses and Semester Credit Hours

ECON 3545 Environmental Economics
ECON 4292 Migration, Immigrant Adaption and Development
ECON 4626 Economics of Inequality and Discrimination
ECON 4774 Economic Reform in Developing Countries
ECON 4784 Economic Development
ENVD 4361 Special Topics: Social Factors in Design
ENVS 3070 Energy and the Environment
ENVS 4027 Inequality, Democracy and the Environment
ENVS 4100 Topics in Environmental Policy
FNCE 4832 Microfinance
GEOG 2002 Geographies of Global Change
GEOG 3682 Geography of International Development
GEOG 4742 Environments and Peoples
PHIL 2200 Major Social Theories
PHIL 2140 Environmental Justice
PSCI 4012 Global Development
PSYC 2456 Social Psychology of Social Problems
SOCY 2011 Contemporary Social Issues
WRTG 3040 Writing on Business and Society (Section with CSR Emphasis)

1. Business Coursework

Complete three of the following:

CESR 4000/4001 Leadership Challenges: Exercises in Moral Courage (year-long course)—3
CESR 4005 Business Solutions for the Developing World: Learning through Service—3
Global Seminar: Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation (Cocle, Panama) – 3
CESR 4130/MGMT 4130 Sustainable Operations—3
CESR 4440/MGMT 4440 Privacy in Big Data Analytics—3
CESR 4827/ACCT 4827 Integrated Reporting for Socially Responsible Strategies—3
CESR 4828/MGMT 4828 Corporate Boards in Action—3
MGMT 4140 Project Management (must be pre-approved for SRE course work credit)—3
MGMT 3030 Critical Leadership Skills - 3

NOTE: These courses are in addition to BCOR, the capstone course for the Area of Emphasis, as well as any other prerequisites. See course descriptions for prerequisite details.

2. Experiential Learning

The experiential learning component is meant to give SRE students the freedom to gain practical experience working in a field of social responsibility of particular interest to them. Students must meet with the SRE Certificate Advisor to gain pre-approval of their proposed experiential learning experience. Upon completion of the experience, students and their supervisor will complete a brief form (provided by the SRE Certificate Advisor) that documents the student’s service. Experiences will be evaluated for application of business skills and social impact.

Experiential Learning Options Include:

Intern for an organization (for-profit or non-profit)

Acceptable internships will be characterized by substantive work that adds value to the organization and contributes to the student’s learning. The SRE Certificate Advisor has information on organizations seeking business assistance from Leeds students. Students may also contact Career Connections for information about internships.

Service Learning through Study Abroad Office

The Office of International Education offers study abroad programs focused on service learning. These programs generally span one academic quarter or semester in the host country, during which the student will participate in, and gain credit for, study in a school of higher education. Outside of the classroom, students will work with local institutions and non-governmental organizations on service projects that promote community development. Service learning programs that are approved through the Office of International Education are automatically approved for experiential learning credit for this certificate.

Related Coursework

Select courses may count toward the Experiential Learning requirement or toward the Business Coursework requirement, but not toward both.

CESR 4005: Business Solutions for the Developing World
MGMT 4140: Project Management (with advisor approval)

Advisor-approved independent study in a related topic; or an advisor-approved internship of an appropriate nature

For course descriptions and program details, visit www.colorado.edu/leeds/CESR/cesr-learning.

3. Personal Reflection and Statement of Purpose

Upon completion of all certificate requirements, students will reflect on their learning and draft a short reflection paper and a statement of purpose, setting out the values that will guide their conduct and their careers. They will then meet with the CESR faculty advisors to discuss their SRE Certificate experience. This final requirement is to remind students why they elected to pursue the certificate and how it will continue to have an impact on their lives after college. Students are encouraged to truly “live” the statement of purpose.

Entrepreneurship and High Growth Ventures

Whether working for a large global corporation or a small start-up venture, graduates will be valued for their ability to innovate, lead change, recognize emerging markets and launch new products. The entrepreneurship program is designed to develop an individual’s abilities to create, discover and exploit opportunities in start-up ventures or existing organizations.

The entrepreneurship program at the Leeds School of Business is internationally recognized for the quality of its instruction and the capabilities of our students. Within the Leeds School, the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship has served as a rich resource for students with interests in entrepreneurship—coordinating the academic curriculum, providing help with internship and job placement, creating links with the business community and sponsoring networking opportunities and many special events.

The curriculum focuses on experiential learning. Courses are designed to give students hands-on experiences that develop the ability to act on opportunities. Students may begin the study of entrepreneurship in their junior year. A Certificate in Entrepreneurship is granted to students who fulfill the following requirements: 1) complete the three courses listed below with at least a 3.00 GPA; 2) complete an entrepreneurship internship; 3) pass a written exam in entrepreneurship at the conclusion of their studies; and 4) participate in entrepreneurship related extracurricular activities and provide a write up on their experiences.

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

ESBM 3700 Entrepreneurial Environments—3
ESBM 4570 Entrepreneurial Finance—3
ESBM 4830 Venture Planning—3

NOTE: Students seeking internships should complete ESBM 3700 by the end of their junior year.

Global Business

The globalization of the marketplace has created a need for managers who can function effectively in the international business environment. Despite this movement toward globalization, there remain significant environmental differences (cultural, economic and political) between countries and/or regions. Managers in an international business must be sensitive to these differences and also must adopt the appropriate policies and strategies for dealing with them.

To address these issues, the Leeds School of Business offers an area of application in international business consisting of 9 credit hours. Students completing additional requirements may earn a Certificate in International Business. The certificate program builds on the students’ understanding of the functional areas of business and provides them with an appreciation of the international environment. It also supplies them with a framework for developing policies and strategies appropriate for the global marketplace.

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

INBU 3300 International Business Management or
INBU 4200 International Financial Management or
Global Seminar: London International Finance
MGMT 4150 International Operations Management or
Global Seminar: International Operations in Hong Kong
INBU 3450 International Marketing or
Global Seminar: Marketing in the Global Environment

In addition to the three INBU courses, the certificate program requires the completion of the following requirements:

six credits of additional international course work, such as international business electives not on the required list above, or courses in economics, geography or political science. Courses must be selected from an approved list maintained by the Leeds Undergraduate Advising Office.
fourth level of a foreign language.
a significant international experience, which may be satisfied in a number of ways including participation in a study abroad program, an international academic internship, service work in an international location or an internship with an organization focused on global business and economics. Students should check with the Leeds Undergraduate Advising Office to verify that their global experience will qualify to meet this requirement.
Students must apply online to receive the Global Business Certificate.

Operations and Information Management (OPIM)

OPIM Certificate

Advances in business knowledge and technology have radically changed business systems and processes—for example, how organizations buy and sell goods and services, integrate their supply chain and logistic systems and reach or retain customers. As a result, critical to today’s businesses is the ability to get the right information to the right people at the right time, so that both strategic and operational decisions are made properly and quickly. To help students develop this ability, the Leeds School of Business offers the OPIM Certificate.

Students who are not in the OM or IM track in the Management and Entrepreneurship Division can take any three courses listed in the course description section below. Students majoring in the OM track can take any three IM track courses, while students majoring in the IM track can take any three OM track courses. To complete the OPIM certificate requirements, all students must also complete a faculty-supervised OPIM research project (MGMT 4900 Independent Study) or faculty-supervised OPIM internship (MGMT 4910 Academic Internship in Management).

In addition, students are required to maintain an overall GPA of 3.00 or higher for the selected courses and receive a letter grade of B- or higher in each of the three courses. Successful completion of the certificate program will appear on the student’s transcript.

The following illustrates some of the courses that students not majoring in IM or OM might want to take:

Accounting Students

MGMT 4140 Project Management
MGMT 4210 Systems Thinking
ACCT 4220 Business Technologies

Finance Students

MGMT 3200 Business Intelligence
MGMT 3210 Business Application Programming
MGMT 4210 Systems Thinking

Management (HR Track) Students

MGMT 3200 Business Intelligence
MGMT 4120 Managing Business Processes
MGMT 4210 Systems Thinking

Marketing Students

MGMT 3200 Business Intelligence
MGMT 4110 Supply Chain Management
MGMT 4210 Systems Thinking

Quantitative Finance

Certificate in Quantitative Finance

The Quantitative Finance Track is one of two tracks that make up the Actuarial Studies and Quantitative Finance Certificate Program and is cosponsored by the Leeds School of Business and the College of Arts and Sciences. The program is interdisciplinary and rigorous. The goal of the program is to augment the financial education provided by the Leeds School with a more extensive mathematical base.

The analytical demands of business are increasing rapidly and constantly. This program is designed to prepare students for the increased requirements of the most attractive financial analyst positions. In addition, the program provides a solid base for success in graduate studies.

Program requirements are extensive and challenging. Students must meet two separate GPA requirements. First, the overall GPA for all courses applied to certificate requirements must be at least 3.00. In addition, students must meet a requirement specifically for mathematics and statistics courses applied to certificate requirements. This requirement can be met one of two ways, either by achieving a GPA of 2.87 or greater in calculus courses or a GPA of 3.00 or greater in the six mathematics and statistics courses required for the certificate. Most students will begin study during the freshman year and continue throughout their undergraduate career. A brief summary of course requirements is presented below. For a complete list of requirements and further information regarding the quantitative finance track and the related actuarial studies track, see the Actuarial Studies Program website. The certificate program is also described in the College of Arts and Sciences section. Interested students should contact Daniel Brown, Daniel.Brown@colorado.edu, Leeds School of Business.

Area of Study and Semester Credit Hours*

Finance and Accounting—25
Mathematics and Statistics—23
Economics—14
Computer Programming—3

* Number of credit hours may vary according to the specific courses completed.

Real Estate

The real estate area of application is designed to provide students with exposure to the concepts, tools and techniques necessary for entry-level positions. A career in real estate provides an opportunity for individuals to operate as entrepreneurs whether they are brokers, appraisers, developers, property managers, consultants or investors. An integrated process is followed in the three application area courses to prepare students for real estate careers.

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

REAL 3000 Principles of Real Estate Practice—3
REAL 4000 Real Estate Law—3
REAL 4100 Real Estate Finance and Investment Analysis—3

The real estate certificate program allows students to broaden their knowledge and understanding of real estate through a multidisciplinary focus, whereby courses are taken outside of the Leeds School of Business. For this program, students must complete the courses listed above (REAL 3000, 4000 and 4100), 6 credits of nonbusiness electives listed below and an academic internship. See the Real Estate center for a list of the approved electives and internships.

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

area of application courses listed above—9
courses in Program in Environmental Design OR from the construction management area in the Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering of the College of Engineering and Applied Science—6
academic internship in real estate practice or related area—3

Concurrent Bachelor's/Master's Program

BS in Telecommunications/MS in Business

The Leeds School of Business also offers a unique program that allows undergraduates the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree simultaneously. The joint program graduates students with a bachelor’s degree from the Leeds School of Business and a master’s degree from the College of Engineering in telecommunications. For more information, see engineeringanywhere.colorado.edu/itp/.

Graduate Degree Program(s)

Graduate Study in Business

The Leeds School of Business offers programs leading to the master of business administration (MBA), master of science (MS) emphasis in accounting and doctor of philosophy in business administration (PhD) degrees. The Leeds School also offers a part-time MBA program called the Evening MBA that leads to the same degree as the full-time MBA program. Dual degree options available in the MBA program include juris doctor/master of business administration (JD/MBA), master of business administration/master of arts (MBA/MA) in fine arts, master of business administration/master of arts (MBA/MA) in anthropology, master of business administration/master of arts (MBA/MA) in Germanic and Slavic Languages, master of business administration/master of arts (MBA/MA) in theatre and dance, master of business administration/master of science (MBA/MS) in environmental studies, master of business administration/master of science (MBA/MS) in computer science, master of business administration/master of science (MBA/MS TLEN) in telecommunications. The Leeds School of Business, in conjunction with the Peace Corps, also offers a Master’s International (MBA-MI). Dual degree options are not available in the Evening MBA program.

These programs are open to qualified individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university, or a recognized international university, without regard to their undergraduate major. The Leeds School of Business also offers a concurrent BS/MS program in accounting that awards the bachelor’s and master’s degrees simultaneously.

Master of Science in Business Administration (MSBA)

There are two paths to the master of science in business administration (MSMA) degree with an emphasis in financial accounting or taxation. The first is the concurrent bachelor’s and master’s degree program. In this program, both the bachelor’s and master’s degrees are awarded simultaneously upon the completion of 150 specified hours of course credit. An academic internship is a highly recommended option within this requirement. The program is designed for students pursuing the 150-hour educational background requirement for CPAs and is a carefully integrated and challenging program of study. Upon completion of 90 credit hours, including specific prerequisites, undergraduate students in the Leeds School of Business may apply to the program and, if admitted, begin taking graduate courses and an internship during their senior year. This program provides an excellent foundation for careers in professional accounting.

The second path is an independent stand alone master’s degree program. Students with undergraduate degrees other than accounting or business may also be admitted to the program, but may have to take additional coursework to fulfill deficiency requirements in addition to the regular program requirements.

Students in both programs choose an area of study that focuses on financial accounting or taxation.

Minimum Requirements. Accounting and taxation students must complete a minimum of 30 semester hours of graduate-level work. The newly-accepted student should consult with the faculty advisor for the program to develop an individualized degree plan. No thesis is required.

Students in the Master of Science in Business Administration programs are governed by the rules of the Graduate School.

Emphasis in Financial Accounting/Audit

The master of science in business administration that emphasizes financial accounting/audit provides students with opportunities to take a broad cross-section of accounting and accounting-related classes. Most graduates pursue professional careers as certified public accountants (CPAs) specializing in assurance services (auditing) or advisory services (consulting). In addition to auditing courses, students take courses such as international accounting, advanced financial accounting, financial statement analysis, oil and gas accounting, income tax reporting and integrated (non-financial) reporting. Students with a financial accounting/audit emphasis will:

Develop expanded skills regarding complex financial reporting topics, including alternative reporting regimes (i.e., U.S. and international reporting);
Develop ability to prepare, interpret, analyze and audit financial statements from a broad set of reporting entities, both domestic and international; and
Have access to, and interaction with, professionals engaged in the financial reporting process and audit profession.

Emphasis in Taxation

The master of science in business administration that emphasizes taxation integrates accounting and law school courses. Some of the tax and law courses are strictly tax-related while others include related legal aspects of a particular subject area. The combination of courses is designed to give exposure to taxation from both accounting as well as law perspectives.

The purpose of this program is to prepare students for professional careers as CPAs specialized in taxation. Therefore, the student will:

develop a refined ability to recognize tax problems and understand tax issues in a broad economic framework;
research and present well-developed strategies or solutions to tax problems; and
develop creative tax planning opportunities in a variety of contexts.

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

The breadth of training that master of business administration graduates receive prepares them to become high-level managers and lead in a challenging and evolving business environment.

The MBA program is rigorous and comprehensive, and demands student commitment. The curriculum develops a set of broad-based, integrative skills. Core courses provide a solid foundation in both business management and analytical disciplines, a foundation that fosters continued career growth. In addition to core courses stressing key functional areas of business, students can choose electives specific to a chosen area of concentration.

The case study method and student projects are used broadly throughout all courses, and common areas of study such as ethics, technology, communications and international issues are integrated throughout much of the curriculum. Students learn about management theory and its practical applications in “real-world” situations. Lectures, seminars, team teaching, team projects and guest lectures are various approaches taken by the faculty to generate new ideas and encourage student input.

Requirements for Admission to MBA Programs

For all MBA programs, the admissions committee reviews each applicant’s complete application, with consideration given to the following:

an applicant’s academic record
an applicant’s score on the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or the Graduate Record Exam (GRE). The GMAT or GRE must be retaken if the test date was more than five years ago.
international students must provide a test showing proof of English language proficiency
an applicant’s work experience
written essays
personal interviews
letters of recommendation

In addition, a nonrefundable application fee is required of all applicants. This fee is waived for active duty military. See the specific MBA application for more information. The online application is on the MBA program website at leeds.colorado.edu.

The mailing address for additional materials is Leeds School of Business, University of Colorado Boulder, 419 UCB, Boulder, CO 80309-0419, or call 303-492-8397.

Diversity

The Leeds School of Business encourages qualified individuals to apply regardless of gender, race, religion, national origin, age, physical limitation or sexual orientation.

MBA Policies and Requirements

For current, detailed information regarding the MBA program, contact the Leeds School of Business.

Advising. During the first semester of study, to ascertain degree requirements, MBA students should check in with the student services manager for the MBA program.

Minimum Hours Required. Students entering the MBA program take a prescribed sequence of classes before beginning elective courses. A minimum of 55 credit hours is needed to graduate. Students entering the MBA program are expected to complete the degree in two years. Transferred course work is not accepted into the MBA program.

Core Course Waiver. Students may not waive core courses.

Courses Taken Outside the Leeds School of Business (limits). MBA students may enroll in up to 12 hours of elective course work outside the Leeds School of Business with approval from the MBA Programs office, provided the remaining 18 hours of electives are taken within the MBA program. Course work taken outside the Leeds School of Business must be at the graduate program level. Students may not take courses outside the University of Colorado Boulder and count them toward the degree. Students should contact individual departments for course listings and registration requirements for nonbusiness courses.

Grades and Quality of Work. All courses applied toward the 55 credit hours must be taken for a grade. Courses in which a C- or below is received are not accepted for credit toward the 55 credit hours and may have to be retaken. In this case, both grades are factored into the GPA. To withdraw from an elective course and receive a grade of W, a student must be earning a passing grade in that course. Students normally are not permitted to withdraw from courses after the sixth week of the semester. Students in the MBA program may not withdraw from specified, lock-step course work. An I is an incomplete grade. Use of the I is at the discretion of the course instructor and/or the dean. Students must ask for an incomplete grade. An I is given only when students, for reasons beyond their control, have been unable to complete course requirements. A substantial amount of work must have been satisfactorily completed before approval for such a grade is given.

Calculating GPAs. For the purpose of calculating GPAs for MBA student rankings and probation, only course work taken within the business school is counted.

Withdrawal. Students who choose to leave the program must formally withdraw. Failure to do so will result in assessment of full tuition and fees. Students who withdraw must reapply to the program if they wish to continue their studies. Applicants who reapply are evaluated with current applicants to the program. Students who are granted re-admission must complete the requirements of the current program. Course work taken more than five years earlier must be validated by examination in order to count toward the degree and may be considered elective credit.

Probation. A student whose cumulative GPA falls between a 2.50 and 3.00 is placed on academic probation. The student is allowed to remain on probation for one semester as long as reasonable progress is made to improve the GPA. The MBA director for academic programs determines whether reasonable progress is being made and whether the student can graduate with a 3.00 in the stated time limit.

Suspension. A student whose cumulative GPA falls below 2.50 at any time is automatically suspended from the program. A suspended student is eligible to petition for readmission after one year.

Master of Business Administration/Master’s International (with Peace Corps Service)

The Leeds School of Business, in conjunction with the Peace Corps, offers a program resulting in a master of business administration (MBA) combined with Peace Corps service. Students spend the first year at Leeds developing a base level of core business skills, followed by two years of volunteer service with the Peace Corps. MI-MBA students will then return to Leeds to complete the remaining MBA degree requirements.

Master of Business Analytics

The MSBA degree, Business Analytics concentration, focuses on the exciting and fast-growing field of "big data." Merging developments in marketing and customer analytics with operations research, business analytics, aspects of computer science and statistical methods, the specialization offers a technical, quantitative and statistically intensive program designed to train specialists in turning "big data" into business decisions. Analytics may be used as input for human decisions or may drive fully automated decisions about why some data pattern is observed, what will happen next and how a firm can adapt to optimize that outcome.

This nine-month program includes extensive coursework and an application of materials, preparing students for a range of job opportunities. In addition to the academic coursework, four enrichment seminars in topics ranging from teamwork and leadership to ethics and corporate social responsibility support our commitment to developing the "whole student," by incorporating professional development into the academic experience.

The experiential project pairs students with clients in industry to work on important practical problems in business analytics. Students work under the supervision of MSBA faculty and meet together weekly to discuss progress, jointly work on problems and to share experiences. This hands-on analytics project management experience prepares graduates to make an immediate meaningful contribution in the workplace.

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Summer Review

Admission to the program may recommend or require preparation or refresher courses in statistics, math and business.

August Intensive

Survey of Business Analytics—3

Fall

Advanced Statistics Analysis—3
Data Analytics—3
Market Intelligence—3
Advanced Data Systems—3
Analytics Lab—3

Spring

Supervised Analytics Project—6
Elective—3
Elective—3
Elective—3

Electives offer variety within the specialization:

Project Management
Digital Marketing
Decision Analysis
Process Analytics
Customer Analytics
Supply Chain and Operations Analytics

Supervised Business Analytics Project. Based on an "action learning" model, the course is designed to provide hands-on analytics project management experience, amplified by shared experiences with other students. Exposes students to the multiple facets of business analytics at an executive level and integrates program coursework with this experience. While gaining first-hand experience, students are also adding value to the company by completing a project that draws on the skills gained through course work and educational experiences.

For additional information, please visit our website at www.colorado.edu/leedsms or email us at leedsms@colorado.edu.

Master of Finance

The twelve-month MSBA, Finance specialization, provides extensive coursework and an in-depth application of materials, preparing you for a range of job opportunities. In addition to the coursework, enrichment seminars in topics ranging from teamwork and leadership to ethics and corporate social responsibility support the "whole student" experience, by incorporating professional development into the academic experience.

The focused Finance curriculum offers students without a background in finance a firm grounding in general finance, and helps to develop the specific skills necessary to pursue careers in a variety of financial fields. The investment management track provides the skills necessary to pursue a career with an investment management firm and prepares you to take the CFA Level I exam. The corporate finance/consulting track prepare you for a career in management consulting, investment banking, private equity and venture capital.

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Investment Management Track

Summer

Quantitative Methods—3
Managerial Economics—3
Financial Accounting—3
Corporate Finance—3

Fall

Investment Management and Analysis—3
Derivative Securities—3
Markets, Institutions and Regulations—3
Fixed Income Investment—3

Spring

Financial Statement Analysis—3
Security Analysis and Valuation—3
Advanced Portfolio Management, choice of Applied Financial Management or International Financial Management—3

Corporate Finance/Consulting Track

Summer

Quantitative Methods—3
Managerial Economics—3
Financial Accounting—3
Corporate Finance—3

Fall

Investment Management and Analysis—3
Derivative Securities—3
Markets, Institutions and Regulations—3
Fixed Income Investment—3

Spring

Financial Statement Analysis—3
Security Analysis and Valuation—3
Financial Strategy and Decision Modeling—3
Applied Financial Management—3

For additional information, please visit our website at www.colorado.edu/leedsms or email us at leedsms@colorado.edu.

Master of Real Estate

The Master of Science in Real Estate provides an in-depth education for students interested in a career in the real estate industry. The twelve-month program offers extensive coursework and an application of materials, preparing students for a range of job opportunities. The program incorporates experiential learning and a multitude of opportunities for students to interact with industry leaders in classes and in events sponsored by the CU Real Estate Center.

The MS Real Estate degree curriculum includes a rigorous background in quantitative financial analysis and management, and specifically prepares you for careers in the financial, management and operations aspects of real estate. The program develops business skills so you can add value for your employers quickly. The Development Management track prepares you to become a real estate development project manager. The Asset Management track prepares you for a variety of careers in real property asset and portfolio management.

Development Management Track

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Summer

Quantitative Methods—3
Financial Accounting—3
Managerial Economics—3
Corporate Finance—3

Fall

Real Estate Finance and Investments—3
Real Estate Economics—3
Real Estate Law and Practice—3
Construction Engineering & MGT Fundamentals—3

Spring

Design Development—3
Legal Aspects of Construction—3
Sustainable Real Estate—3
Real Estate Project Completion—3

Asset Management Track

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Summer

Quantitative Methods—3
Financial Accounting—3
Managerial Economics—3
Corporate Finance—3

Fall

Real Estate Finance and Investments—3
Real Estate Economics—3
Real Estate Law and Practice—3
Investment Management & Analysis—3

Spring

Property/Asset/Portfolio Risk Management—3
Sustainable Real Estate—3
Financial Statement Analysis—3
Real Estate Project Completion—3

Applicants for the MS in Real Estate must have a minimum of two year's relevant work experience.

For additional information, please visit our website at www.colorado.edu/leedsms or email us at leedsms@colorado.edu.

Master of Supply Chain Management

The MS Supply Chain Management program provides an in-depth education in the specific area of Supply Chain Management. This nine-month program includes extensive coursework and an application of materials, preparing students for a range of job opportunities. In addition to the academic coursework, four enrichment seminars in topics ranging from teamwork and leadership to ethics and corporate social responsibility support our commitment to developing the "whole student," by incorporating professional development into the academic experience.

The MS Supply Chain curriculum includes the theory, tools and applied knowledge from quantitative, qualitative and managerial perspectives. Graduates will be prepared for responsible and influential jobs in a variety of organizations, including large manufacturing, retail and distribution organizations; transportation companies; supply chain software companies; and supply chain consulting firms.

A core required curriculum provides the common grounding within the discipline, while elective options and projects in a company setting develop individualization and specialization.

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Summer Review

Admission to the program may recommend or require preparation or refresher courses in statistics, math and business.

August Intensive

Supply Chain Strategy—3

Fall

Transportation and Logistics—3
Procurement and Contracting—3
Advanced Data Systems—3
Data Analytics—3
Elective—3

Spring

Supervised Supply Chain Project—6
Supply Chain and Operations Analytics—3
Elective—3
Elective—3

Electives offer variety within the specialization:

Project Management
Decision Analysis
Customer Analytics
Process Analytics
IT and Business Strategy
Negotiations

Supervised Supply Chain Project. Based on an “action learning” model, the course is designed to provide hands-on supply chain project management experience, amplified by shared experiences with other students. Exposes students to the multiple facets of supply chain management at an executive level and integrates program coursework with this experience. While gaining first-hand experience, students are also adding value to the company by completing a project that draws on the skills gained through course work and educational experiences.

For additional information, please visit our website at www.colorado.edu/leedsms or email us at leedsms@colorado.edu.

Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration (PhD)

A PhD degree recognizes scholarly achievement and is the highest academic honor that CU-Boulder bestows. The PhD in business administration prepares scholars to be preeminent in their field of expertise. The program focuses on developing the necessary skills for the design and execution of original, innovative research and for the dissemination of knowledge through teaching and writing.

Requirements for Admission. To preserve the individualized character of the PhD program and its quality, the number of students is limited and the application process is very competitive. Students are admitted for study in a specific area for doctoral work. The Leeds School of Business currently offers the following areas of study: accounting; finance; marketing; information management; operations management; and strategic, organizational and entrepreneurial studies.

For more information on the application requirements and process, write Leeds School of Business, PhD Program, University of Colorado Boulder, 419 UCB, Boulder, CO 80309-0419; call 303-492-4984; or visit leeds.colorado.edu/phd.

Background, Prerequisites and Deficiencies. Each student must have a background in mathematics at or beyond calculus. Based on experience, background and at the discretion of the academic advisor and/or division chair and/or the doctoral program director, additional prerequisites may be required of the PhD student.

Requirements for the Degree. Most curriculum and program requirements are decided by the division. Consult the PhD program advisor of the appropriate division for information regarding course selection, graduate teaching program certification, research internships and other division requirements. Students must complete all Graduate School, Leeds School of Business and division requirements to be conferred the PhD in business administration.

The newly accepted PhD student should consult with the division chair and/or academic advisor to develop an individualized degree plan. Students are required to become proficient in their primary area of study. In addition, all students are required to complete course work in a field outside their division. These “second fields” are governed by the departments offering the course work but typically require 6 to 12 credit hours. The second field may also require an additional preliminary or comprehensive exam.

Course Work. All doctoral students are required to complete at least 30 hours of course work and 30 hours of dissertation credit at CU-Boulder. Additional course work may be required as determined by the academic advisor. To comply with this 30-hour requirement, a course must have been taught by a member of the university’s graduate faculty, must be at the 5000 level or above, and the student must achieve a grade of B- or better.

Courses must be approved by the student’s academic advisor before registration. Most students are required to complete 7000- and 8000-level doctoral seminars.

For full-time status, the Leeds School of Business requires successful completion of 5 credit hours of course work each semester. During and after comprehensive exams, full-time status requires completion of a minimum of 5 dissertation hours each semester.

Transfer of Credit. A maximum of 9 semester hours of courses taken at other schools (this includes other University of Colorado campuses) or taken as a special student at the university may be transferred into the doctoral program. Course work must be recent and of doctoral-level quality. A doctoral student must establish a satisfactory record of residence in the doctoral program before the course work is eligible for transfer. The transfer of credit must be approved by the division, the doctoral program director and the Graduate School. There is no guarantee any course work will be accepted for transfer.

Residency. The Leeds School of Business adheres to the Graduate School rules regarding residency. All students in the doctoral program are expected to be full-time students on the Boulder campus (at least during residency and prior to completing the comprehensive examinations). Doctoral students are expected to be available to participate in colloquia and other informal academic discussions. Full-time employment outside the university is prohibited during the residency period. Any off-campus status must be approved by the division and the doctoral program director.

Time Limit. Doctoral students have six years from the commencement of course work to complete all requirements of the degree, but most students complete their program within five years.

Comprehensive Examination. Before admission to candidacy, a doctoral student must pass a comprehensive examination in the field of concentration. The examination may be oral, written or both, and will test the student’s mastery of a broad field of knowledge, not merely the formal course work completed. Each division will determine the required content, length and standards of evaluation for the exam. Check with the division as to the specific requirements for the comprehensive exam.

Admission to Candidacy. Students are admitted to candidacy according to Graduate School procedures and requirements. Students shall complete all course work and any other requirements listed on their degree plans, earn at least four semesters of residence and successfully pass the comprehensive exams before admission to candidacy is approved by the Graduate School. In addition, requirements related to academic quality of work, graduate-level course work, the minimum number of course hours, and graduate faculty membership must be met before admission to candidacy is approved.

Dissertation. A dissertation based upon original investigation showing mature scholarship and critical judgment, as well as competence with research tools and methods, must be written on a subject approved by the candidate’s dissertation committee. To be acceptable, the dissertation must be a significant contribution to knowledge in the candidate’s primary field.

Final Examination (Defense). Upon recommendation of the candidate’s doctoral dissertation committee, a final oral examination shall be given. This examination covers both the dissertation and the primary field of study. The oral examination is open to the public.

Filing the Dissertation. The dissertation must comply in mechanical features with the University of Colorado Graduate School Thesis and Dissertation Specifications. The dissertation must be filed with the Graduate School by the posted deadline for the semester in which the degree is to be conferred.

Dual Degree Programs

Juris Doctor/MBA

The purpose of this dual-degree program is to allow students admitted to both the School of Law and the Leeds School of Business to obtain the juris doctor (JD) and the master of business administration (MBA) degrees in four (or fewer) years of full-time study. The program is designed to train students for careers in which business administration and law overlap.

Admission. To be eligible for the JD/MBA dual-degree program of the School of Law and the Leeds School of Business, a student must apply separately to and be admitted by each of the two schools under their respective admission procedures and standards.

Students may elect the dual-degree program at the time of initial application to both schools, or they may apply for the dual-degree program during their first year of study in the degree program of either school.

Course of Study. A student enrolled in the JD/MBA program may commence studies under the program in either the School of Law or the Leeds School of Business. Dual-degree students are strongly encouraged to begin their course of study at the School of Law. However, a student must take the first year of the JD curriculum as a unit exclusively in the School of Law. Likewise, a student must take the first year of the MBA curriculum as a unit exclusively in the Leeds School of Business. Students can then take additional courses necessary to meet the requirements of the degree programs of the two schools.

No student in the dual-degree program shall be allowed to take fewer than 9 semester hours or more than 16 semester hours during any term (excluding summer terms) without receiving the consent of the program advisor in each school in which courses are being taken.

Credit for Law Courses in the JD/MBA Program. The Leeds School of Business grants credit toward the MBA degree for up to 12 semester hours of acceptable performance in law courses taken by a JD/MBA student at the School of Law. Core courses required in the law school program cannot be counted toward the 12 hours. A student must earn at least a 77 grade in a law school course to be accepted for Leeds School of Business credit. For credit to be granted, the law school courses must be approved before enrollment by an MBA advisor. Only courses taken after admission into the MBA program are credited toward the degree.

Grading in the Dual-Degree Program. Leeds School of Business credit for courses completed in the School of Law as part of the joint degree program is recorded on a pass/fail basis and is not included in the required MBA 3.00 cumulative average.

MBA/MFA

The Leeds School of Business, in conjunction with the Department of Art and Art History, offers students the ability to earn an MBA and an MA in fine arts through a three-year dual-degree program. Students in the MBA/MA dual-degree program pursue careers in digital marketing, web design, e-commerce, gallery/museum administration and private art consulting.

Admission. Applicants must apply to both programs and must meet the application requirements for each program separately. Students may apply simultaneously to both programs or may apply to the second program after starting the first master’s program, provided they do so during the first year of study.

Course of Study. Students in the MBA/MA in fine arts spend the first year of their dual-degree program exclusively in either the business school or the fine arts program. In the second year, courses are taken exclusively in the other department. The third year offers students the opportunity to take both MBA and fine arts elective courses.

Credit for Fine Arts Courses in the MBA/MA Fine Arts Program. Dual-degree students in studio arts are required to complete 43 hours of MBA course work and 45 hours of fine arts course work. Dual-degree students in art history are required to complete 43 hours of MBA course work and 30 hours of fine arts course work.

MBA/MA in Anthropology

The MBA/MA in anthropology dual-degree program enables students to earn an MBA and an MA in anthropology simultaneously over three or four years depending on the student’s subdiscipline in anthropology. Students in this MBA/MA program pursue careers in managing the business aspects of archaeological projects, working in the growing field of corporate cultural anthropology and ethnography or museum management.

Course of Study. Students in the MBA/MA in anthropology spend the first year of their dual-degree program exclusively in either the business school or the department of anthropology. In the second year, courses are taken exclusively in the other department. The remaining year(s) offers students the opportunity to take both MBA and anthropology elective courses.

MBA/MA in German Studies

The MBA/MA in German studies dual-degree program enables students to earn an MBA and an MA in German studies simultaneously over three or four years. Students in this MBA/MA program pursue careers in international business.

Course of Study. Students in the MBA/MA in German studies spend the first year of their dual-degree program exclusively in either the Leeds School of Business or the Department of Germanic and Slavic Languages and Literatures. In the second year, courses are taken exclusively in the other department. The remaining year(s) offers students the opportunity to take both MBA and German studies elective courses.

MBA/MA in Theater and Dance

The Leeds School of Business, in conjunction with the Department of Theatre and Dance, offers students the ability to earn an MBA and an MA in theatre or dance through a three-year dual-degree program. Students in the MBA/MA dual-degree program pursue careers in a wide variety of fields and jobs in the world of the performing arts. Types of organizations include theatre companies, dance companies, opera companies, symphonies, arts councils, performing arts complexes, civic auditoriums and arts presenters.

Course of Study. Students in the MBA/MA in theatre and dance spend the first year of their dual-degree program exclusively in either the business school or the theatre/dance program. In the second year, courses are taken exclusively in the other department. The third year offers students the opportunity to take both MBA and theatre/dance elective courses.

Credit for Courses. Dual degree students are required to complete 43 hours of MBA course work and 24 hours of theatre/dance course work. A minimum of 67 approved credits must be completed to earn both degrees.

MBA/MS in Computer Science

The MBA/MS in computer science enables students to earn an MBA and an MS in computer science over three or four years. Students in this MBA/MS program have career interests that combine corporate business and technology.

Course of Study. Students in the MBA/MS in computer science spend the first year of the dual-degree program exclusively in either the business school or the computer science department. In the second year, courses are taken exclusively in the other department. The remaining year(s) students may take both MBA and computer science electives.

MBA/MS in Environmental Studies

The MBA/MS in environmental studies enables students to earn an MBA and an MS in environmental studies over three or four years. Students in the MBA/MA program have career interests that combine corporate business and environmental protection, the management of renewal energy, water conservation or environmental programs.

Course of Study. Students in the MBA/MS in environmental studies spend the first year of the dual-degree program exclusively in either the business school or the environmental studies department. In the second year, courses are taken exclusively in the other department. The remaining year(s) students may take both MBA and environmental studies electives.

MBA/MS in Telecommunications

The Leeds School of Business, in conjunction with the College of Engineering and Applied Science, offers a dual-degree program resulting in a master of business administration (MBA) and master of science in telecommunications (MS/TLEN). The dual-degree program combines broad-based business management study with an in-depth understanding of telecommunications technology. This program prepares students to be competent, effective managers in the telecommunications industry.

Admission. An individual must apply separately and be admitted to both programs under each school’s or college’s admission procedures and standards. Applicants are encouraged to apply to the programs concurrently.

Course of Study. Students in the MBA/MS in telecommunications spend the first year of the dual-degree program exclusively in either the business school or the telecommunications program. In the second year, courses are taken exclusively in the other department. In the third year students will take both MBA and telecommunications elective courses to complete both master’s degrees.

Credit for Courses. Dual degree students are required to complete 43 hours of MBA course work and 36 hours of telecommunications course work. A minimum of 79 approved credits must be completed to earn both degrees.

Certificate Program(s)

Certificate in Entrepreneurship (for Leeds students)

The entrepreneurial way of thinking is valuable in whatever you do in your career and life. From creative problem solving to building a successful team to capitalizing on opportunities, you’ll learn a tool set that will help you throughout your career. And you’ll be a part of a supportive and dynamic community working together in learning how to create value in the world. The Entrepreneurship Certificate for Leeds Students consists of a few key components:

Courses. Three entrepreneurship courses, including Entrepreneurial Finance, Feasibility Analysis and Venture Planning.
Events. Attend a few entrepreneurial events to meet leading business owners and gain insights.
Internship. Immerse yourself into an entrepreneurial environment and experience first-hand the excitement and energy of a fast growing business.
Capstone exam. A practical exam that allows you to apply your entrepreneurial tool kit.

For more information, please visit www.colorado.edu/leeds/deming.

Certificate in Cross-Campus Entrepreneurship (for non-Leeds students)

The entrepreneurial way of thinking is valuable in whatever you do in your career and life. From creative problem solving to building a successful team to capitalizing on opportunities, you’ll learn a tool set that will help you throughout your career. And you’ll be a part of a supportive and dynamic community working together in learning how to create value in the world. The Cross-Campus Entrepreneurship Certificate consists of a few key components:

Courses. This Certificate is an enhancement to the business minor. By selecting the entrepreneurship track in the minor, you’ll complete the course requirements.
Events. Attend a few entrepreneurial events to meet leading business owners and gain insights.
Internship. Immerse yourself into an entrepreneurial environment and experience first-hand the excitement and energy of a fast growing business.
Capstone exam. A practical exam that allows you to apply your entrepreneurial tool kit.

For more information, visit www.colorado.edu/leeds/deming.

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Business Administration

Knowledge and Abilities of Business Students

Advising and Records

Minor in Business

Curriculum

Application Process

Fees

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Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BS)

Accounting

Professional Certification as a CPA or CMA

BS in Business Administration: Accounting Emphasis

BS in Business Administration: Accounting Emphasis, enhanced by additional course work required to meet state CPA licensure requirements

Finance

Management

Talent Management Track

Information Management Track

Operations Management Track

Strategy & Entrepreneurship Track

Leadership Track

Marketing

Center for Education on Social Responsibility (CESR)

Certificate in Socially Responsible Enterprise (SRE)

General Courses

1. Business Coursework

2. Experiential Learning

3. Personal Reflection and Statement of Purpose

Entrepreneurship and High Growth Ventures

Global Business

Operations and Information Management (OPIM)

OPIM Certificate

Quantitative Finance

Certificate in Quantitative Finance

Real Estate

BS in Telecommunications/MS in Business

Graduate Study in Business

Master of Science in Business Administration (MSBA)

Emphasis in Financial Accounting/Audit

Emphasis in Taxation

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Requirements for Admission to MBA Programs

Diversity

MBA Policies and Requirements

Master of Business Administration/Master’s International (with Peace Corps Service)

Master of Business Analytics

Master of Finance

Investment Management Track

Corporate Finance/Consulting Track

Master of Real Estate

Development Management Track

Asset Management Track

Master of Supply Chain Management

Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration (PhD)

Juris Doctor/MBA

MBA/MFA

MBA/MA in Anthropology

MBA/MA in German Studies

MBA/MA in Theater and Dance

MBA/MS in Computer Science

MBA/MS in Environmental Studies

MBA/MS in Telecommunications

Certificate in Entrepreneurship (for Leeds students)

Certificate in Cross-Campus Entrepreneurship (for non-Leeds students)