Athens State University’s College of Business has a mission to “offer programs of study to students that will prepare them for positions in business, finance, or government; enhance the professional development of those already employed; and provide an academic framework for graduate study leading to professional positions.” Students can also expect to leave the business programs at Athens State with advanced skills in decision making, effective leadership, communication, critical thinking, and the use of technology. AACSB accreditation gives an added assurance of the quality of programs available.
Education
Several of the bachelor’s degrees that can be earned through the College of Business include Accounting, Acquisition and Contract Management, Health Care Management, and Information Assurance. There are also a myriad of minors available in topics such as Aviation Management, Project Management, Forensic Accounting, or International Business.
Student Life
There are many organizations and ways to get involved at Athens State. The American Production and Inventory Control Society, Athenian Ambassadors, and Multicultural Student Association are few that would benefit business students as they connect with peers and build communication skills. The Office of Student Activities specializes in developing programs that enhance leadership skills, provide personal growth opportunities, celebrate cultural differences, as well as fun on-campus events. The University strives to be “friendly, affordable, and convenient.” There are about 3,000 students enrolled each semester, with the majority from the Northern Alabama or Southern Tennessee area. Classes are offered on-campus, online, hybrid, and at extended learning locations in the area.
Online Programs
At the graduate level, the C.o.B. offers a comprehensive and fully online MS in Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management. Students can choose between a standard cohort model which is completed on a part-time basis in five semesters or the 12-month cohort that is a full-time commitment leading to graduation in only one year. Classes begin with a Logistics core. These classes dive in-depth on subjects like supply chain governance, management of distribution and inventory, financial management, and procurement and materials management. Participants then choose a specialty track in either Logistics Information Systems/SAP or Management. There are no on-campus components to this degree. GMAT, GRE, MAT, or a minimum of three years of professional work experience in the field of acquisitions, operations, logistics, or supply chain management.
The B.S. in Healthcare Management can be completed on-campus, online, or through several off-campus learning centers. The B.S. in Accounting program has an online option as well. Students who finish their Accounting degree, on-campus or virtually, will meet the requirements needed to sit for the CPA Exam in the State of Alabama. They will also be eligible to take Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) exams, and other accounting certifications.