Pitt’s Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business Launches Online Management Essentials Program

PITTSBURGH— The University of Pittsburgh’s Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business will expand the reach of its decade-old Management Essentials, the school’s popular mini-MBA certificate program, by launching an online version of the program in August.

The 11-week online program focuses on business ethics, financial accounting, marketing, leadership, and communication. The creation of an online option reflects the need to accommodate the schedules of business professionals.

“Moving the program beyond the traditional classroom is a way to deliver this broad-based curriculum to a global audience,” said Anne Nemer, assistant dean and executive director of Executive MBA and Executive Education for the Katz School.

The online curriculum also helps remove barriers for participation, explained Holly Shiflett, associate director of Online Programs for the University of Pittsburgh. “Participants can log in anytime, anywhere,” she said.

The same in-demand Katz faculty members that teach in the executive MBA program have recorded their classroom presentations and have been trained to lead discussions online through blog posts, discussion boards, and an online business simulation exercise, which is a key element of the program.

“We worked very diligently to maintain the integrity of the program,” Nemer said.

“Management Essentials is a wonderful tool for anyone who has taken a pause in his or her career, for anyone considering repositioning his or her career, and for those interested in opening their own businesses or changing professions.

“Not everyone needs an MBA or has the time or resources to invest in one,” Nemer added, “but everyone needs Management Essentials. Anyone who is working with others to try and accomplish a common goal, to build a future, or to work more efficiently will benefit from this program.”

The instructional program also provides business principles to people who may not have a business background but are working in an environment where they need the essentials of management and leadership, helping individuals from the more technical side of an organization weigh in on business decisions, according to Nemer.

Management Essentials online begins Aug. 29. For more information about the certificate program or to sign up for a virtual open house session, visit http://www.online.pitt.edu/business/business.php.

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7/25/11/amm/jdh