Master of Business Administration

Minor
MBA

Hours: 33 On-Campus Online

About

The Master of Business Administration (General) program at Fort Hays State University is designed to cultivate innovative, ethical, and strategic business leaders prepared to navigate the complexities of a dynamic global marketplace. Through a rigorous curriculum, students gain a solid foundation in essential business disciplines such as management, finance, marketing, and strategy. The program places strong emphasis on ethical decision-making, global awareness, and critical problem-solving skills, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for success in today’s competitive business environment.

By combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience, the Master of Business Administration (General) program empowers students to assume leadership roles within their organizations. Whether seeking advancement in their current careers or pursuing new business opportunities, graduates emerge with the skills, insights, and confidence needed to make a meaningful and lasting impact in the business world.

Why pursue a Master of Business Administration at Fort Hays State University?

Pursuing a Master of Business Administration (General) at FHSU provides students with a world-class education while fostering leadership, ethical decision-making, and problem-solving skills essential for success in today’s complex business landscape. The program’s rigorous curriculum combines core business disciplines with elective flexibility, ensuring comprehensive preparation for diverse career paths. Faculty members, who are active scholars engaged in current research and possess valuable real-world experience, enrich the learning environment in both online and on-campus settings.

The program places a strong emphasis on global perspectives. Many faculty members bring international experience—either through their backgrounds or professional work, adding diverse viewpoints that prepare students to become globally informed leaders. Additionally, task-based simulations, including those featuring international business scenarios, offer practical skill development and real-world insights. With core courses structured as eight-week sessions and five start dates offered throughout the year, this program provides students with flexibility to balance their studies alongside demanding professional commitments.

Who is this program for?

This program is designed for individuals seeking to expand their business knowledge, strengthen leadership abilities, and navigate the complexities of today’s global marketplace. Whether aiming to advance their careers, explore new opportunities, or deepen their expertise in business strategy, students gain the tools and insights necessary for success. With a flexible yet rigorous curriculum, the program is ideal for professionals prepared to make a meaningful impact within their organizations and communities.

Professionals aiming to advance or take on new leadership roles
Individuals seeking a global business perspective to thrive in a diverse world
Those wanting to make strategic, ethical decisions in business
Professionals looking to transition into a new business field
Individuals seeking a flexible program with 8-week courses and multiple start dates

Real-World Applications

The Master of Business Administration (General) program prepares students for real-world application by incorporating practical examples and case studies throughout the curriculum. These hands-on learning experiences cultivate practical decision-making skills, enabling students to apply business concepts to real-life situations. By analyzing and resolving complex business challenges, students gain valuable insights into the opportunities and obstacles they will encounter in their careers. This approach ensures graduates possess both strong theoretical knowledge and the ability to make informed decisions and take effective action in dynamic business environments.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Fort Hays State University integrates the latest advancements and trends by utilizing new technologies and instructional tools. Faculty members are trained in the use of cutting-edge technology, ensuring students have access to the most current resources and learning platforms. They design engaging virtual and hybrid learning experiences to enhance student engagement. Additionally, faculty remain current in their areas of expertise and regularly update the curriculum each semester, ensuring that students acquire the most relevant and timely business practices needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving global market.

Hands-on Activities

The program offers a variety of experiential activities to enrich learning and provide real-world experience. Several core courses include simulations that engage students in practical decision-making and problem-solving within a business context. Additionally, research projects and case studies are integrated into the curriculum, allowing students to analyze and tackle real business challenges. These activities are designed to deepen students’ understanding of complex business concepts while developing the skills essential for success in their professional careers.

What You’ll Learn:

Integration of key business disciplines and strategies
Ethical decision making in complex business scenarios
Effective communication skills for diverse stakeholders
Critical thinking and problem-solving in business
Leveraging technology to drive business success

How You’ll Learn:

Real-world case studies and business simulations
Use of cutting-edge technology and learning platforms
Experiential learning through research projects
Integration of global perspectives in coursework

Courses

The program features a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide students with a solid foundation in key business disciplines. Core courses cover advanced topics in accounting, marketing, finance, information systems, economics, strategic management, and organizational behavior, offering a deep understanding of essential business management principles.

Beyond the core curriculum, students have the option to specialize in a chosen area, allowing them to develop focused expertise. This flexibility enables students to tailor their studies to align with their career goals and interests, ensuring a well-rounded education that prepares them for leadership roles in the business world.

MBA 811: Advanced Managerial Accounting

This course explores how managers can utilize internal accounting data, operational information, formal models, and analytical techniques to enhance organizational control and decision-making. It emphasizes the importance of integrating both quantitative and qualitative factors to make informed, effective business decisions.

MBA 815: Managerial Economics: Theory and Application

This course applies economic theory and quantitative methods to managerial decision-making across various organizational settings. Topics include demand analysis, production and cost theory, techniques for forecasting demands and costs, pricing strategies, and the impact of government regulations on business decisions.

MBA 831: Organizational Behavior in a Global Context

This course bridges leadership theory with practical applications in organizational behavior. It focuses on the individual within the organizational context, with activities centered on enhancing interpersonal skills and understanding key concepts such as motivation, communication, decision-making, conflict resolution, and organizational change. Students will explore strategies for organizational improvement while developing critical skills for effective leadership and collaboration.

Discover the full Master of Business Administration (General) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Graduates are well-prepared to pursue a wide range of career opportunities in today’s global business environment. Emphasizing innovation, ethical decision-making, and problem-solving, the program equips students for leadership roles across various industries. With 16 specialization options available, students can customize their education to align with specific career objectives. Upon graduation, they are prepared to assume positions that demand strategic thinking, global awareness, and the capability to drive business success. Potential career paths include:

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Chief financial officers (CFOs) manage an organization’s finances, overseeing budgeting, planning, and reporting. Their strategic leadership guides financial decisions to ensure long-term stability.

International Marketing Manager

International marketing managers develop and implement global marketing strategies, analyze market trends, and coordinate campaigns across countries. Their expertise drives business expansion and builds a global brand presence.

E-commerce Manager

E-commerce managers oversee online sales platforms, optimize user experience, and develop strategies to boost revenue. They manage digital marketing and ensure the success of the organization’s online presence.

Entrepreneur/Startup Founder

Entrepreneurs develop business plans, secure funding, and lead ventures to success. Whether launching a tech startup or other business, MBA skills provide a valuable advantage.

Senior Project Manager

Senior project managers oversee complex projects, lead teams, and ensure timely, on-budget completion. Their leadership is key to successful outcomes and career advancement.

Admission Requirements

MBA applications are accepted throughout the year, and admissions are made continually. It typically takes up to four weeks for an application to be processed. To ensure admission for the upcoming semester, applicants are encouraged to submit their materials at least 30 days before the start of classes. Early submission helps prevent delays in the admission process. The FHSU Graduate School and MBA Committee will only review complete application packages, which must include the following:

A paid graduate application
Current resume
Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate coursework (in English)
Two (2) letters of recommendation (must be signed and on letterhead to be official)
Personal statement from student indicating reasons for seeking a Master of Business Administration degree, including professional and/or career goals and pertinent past work experience.
Other requirements as specified by the Fort Hays State University Graduate School - Apply through the FHSU Graduate School.
Please do not include a photograph on any application materials. Applications with photographs will not be reviewed.
All application materials should be sent to the FHSU Graduate School via email at gradschool@fhsu.edu or mail:

Graduate School
Fort Hays State University
600 Park Street
Hays, KS 67601

Questions regarding the application process can be directed to the FHSU Graduate School at 785-628-4236 or gradschool@fhsu.edu or Sarah Patterson, MBA Graduate Coordinator, at 785-628-5696 or gradcoordinator@fhsu.edu.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable cost. Graduates in this program can expect to pay approximately $11,463.09* (on-campus) or $12,035.50* (online) during their time as a student.

*These prices are based on calculating the GR resident/regional tuition rate for on-campus students or the FHSU Online GR tuition rate plus the tuition rate for the MBA by the number of hours needed (24 MBA and 9 graduate concentration courses) to complete this program. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year. Our program coordinator would be excited to talk to you about how our programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

Get Started Today

Your MBA journey begins here. Whether you're advancing your current career or exploring new opportunities, the FHSU MBA program will prepare you to lead with integrity, innovation, and impact.

Apply Now

Questions?

We’re here to help. Reach out to our MBA advising team at slpatterson5@fhsu.edu or call (785) 628-5696.

Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers a variety of related programs that complement the Master of Business Administration (General), providing opportunities for further specialization and career advancement. Programs of interest include:

FAQ

How flexible is the Master of Business Administration (General) program?

The program offers flexible online and on-campus options, enabling students to study full-time or part-time according to their needs. Designed for working professionals, the program allows up to eight years for completion, making it easy to balance education with other commitments and progress at a comfortable pace.

What kind of support is available for career advancement?

Fort Hays State University offers comprehensive career support for MBA students, including access to a dedicated career services team, job placement assistance, and networking opportunities. Strong industry connections further enhance pathways to career advancement across various sectors.

How does the Master of Business Administration (General) program accommodate working professionals?

The program is designed to accommodate working professionals through an adaptable curriculum featuring eight-week core courses, enabling students to tailor their studies to their career goals. With both online and on-campus options available, students can choose the format that best fits their schedules and commitments.

What are the admission requirements for the Master of Business Administration (General) program?

Applicants must submit official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. Additional documents may be required based on specific program needs.

Information about the Department of Management

The Department of Management at FHSU offers on-campus and online programs that prepare you to lead people and manage resources to maximize organizational success. In a business environment that is constantly evolving, our programs are designed to equip you with essential leadership qualities needed to navigate both daily challenges and long-term strategic planning. Our curriculum emphasizes decision-making, solution-oriented thinking, and team leadership, ensuring that you’re ready to meet the demands of modern management roles.

Our programs are tailored to align with your personal and professional goals, providing you with the tools to excel in business in whichever industry you choose. Through hands-on learning, personalized mentorship, and a comprehensive academic approach, you’ll be positioned to succeed in today’s competitive business world. Our dedicated faculty and staff are committed to guiding you every step of the way, ensuring you have the support needed to achieve your career aspirations.

Student Organizations

Business Administration

Minor
MBA

On-Campus
Online

Business Administration