Youngstown State University’s Williamson College of Business Administration is a wonderful option for students in the pursuit of a well-rounded business degree. Williamson Hall is the newest and most technologically advanced building on campus, featuring 3D printing and a professional sales and business communication lab. WCBA is AACSB accredited, the highest standard in business education. Applied learning experiences, such as consulting for local businesses, are a key component that prepares students to be successful beyond graduation. YSU awards $125 million in total financial aid annually, and WCBA offers nearly 85 scholarships, so students can graduate with minimal debt.
Education
Students will transition to business-ready professionals through earning an undergraduate degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Information and Supply Chain Management, Advertising and Public Relations, Human Resource Management, Marketing, Business Economics, or International Business. Minors and certificates are available for Entrepreneurship and Nonprofit Leadership. Students in the International Business program will create their own individualized curriculum to delve into business policies, laws, and international experiences for the countries they are most interested in.
Graduate students can pursue a Master of Accountancy or Master of Business Administration. MAcc students will be prepared to sit for the CPA exam, and can also earn an Enterprise Resource Planning graduate certificate. In as few as 14 months, you could graduate with your MBA. Each class meets one evening per week in a condensed eight-week format. Graduates are employed with KPMG, NASA, General Electric, and Goodyear. Professional certifications include the Lean Green Belt, Six Sigma, Project Management, Certified Global Business Professional, Google Analytics, Hootsuite Certified Professional, and Hootsuite Social Marketing.
Student Life
WCBA’s motto is “Excellence through Engagement.” There are 13 business organizations for approximately 1,400 business students. Students can gain hands-on experience through the Student Investment Fund, give back to the community by participating in Student Leadership Nonprofit Organization, or join a club related to their majors, such as the Advertising Club or the American Marketing Association. A local chapter of Beta Gamma Sigma is on campus. The Emerging Leader Program develops leadership skills through attendance at eight workshops, eight Saturday sessions, six university tradition events, 40 community service hours, and involvement in organizations. Examples of workshop topics include Leadership Journey, Managing Stress as a Leader, and Interpersonal and Group Dynamics.
About two-thirds of WCBA students complete an internship during their college experience, and those who do have a significantly higher placement rate upon graduation. The Career Services Center offers several valuable services for job-seekers, including professional headshots, resume and cover letter workshops, career fairs, and assistance developing a Handshake or LinkedIn profile. Students can also borrow free business attire through the Career Closet or get advice or what to wear for an interview.
Online Programs
Students needing ultimate flexibility can pursue a Master’s of Business Administration fully online. A Leadership specialization is embedded in the curriculum for each program. Students may also select an additional in Digital Marketing or Health Care Management. Classes follow a concentrated seven-week schedule.