Master of Business Administration (Operations Management)
Hours: 33 On-Campus Online
About
The Master of Business Administration (Operations Management) program at Fort Hays State University equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field. Covering key areas such as production operations, logistics, supply chain management, and project management, the program prepares graduates for leadership roles across various industries. With online and on-campus options, students can choose the format that best fits their schedules and professional goals.
The program stands out for its affordability and practical focus. The curriculum is structured to integrate real-world applications, enabling students to engage in problem-solving activities that mirror industry challenges. Faculty members, who are active researchers, bring current trends and emerging practices into the classroom, ensuring students receive an education that is up-to-date and relevant.
Why pursue a Master of Business Administration (Operations Management) at Fort Hays State University?
The Master of Business Administration (Operations Management) program offers an exceptional combination of affordability, flexibility, and hands-on learning. With competitive tuition rates, it delivers high-quality education that maximizes value. Because faculty members are actively involved in research, the curriculum is continually refreshed to reflect the latest industry trends and advancements.
The program prioritizes real-world application, equipping students with practical problem-solving skills and meaningful hands-on experience. Flexible online and on-campus formats allow students to balance coursework with professional and personal responsibilities, making it an excellent choice for working professionals seeking career advancement.
Who is this program for?
The program is designed for individuals looking to advance their careers in operational roles and pursue leadership positions. It is particularly well-suited for:
- Professionals in production operations
- Aspiring logistics and supply chain managers
- Project management professionals
- Quality control specialists
- Individuals seeking leadership roles in operations
- Those aiming to enhance their problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios
Real-World Applications
This program prepares students for real-world applications by providing opportunities to tackle industry-relevant scenarios. Through projects that mirror actual operational challenges, students apply theoretical concepts in practical contexts. This hands-on learning approach ensures graduates are well-informed and capable of implementing practical solutions in the workplace.
With a strong focus on logistics, supply chain management, and quality control, students are equipped with the skills needed to improve operational performance. By engaging with real-world challenges, students build a solid foundation that enables them to make meaningful contributions to their organizations from day one. This emphasis on practical experience ensures graduates are fully prepared to navigate the complexities of operations management across a wide range of industries.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University ensures the curriculum reflects the latest advancements and trends in the field. Faculty members actively engage in research, bringing current industry developments directly into the classroom. This approach equips students with up-to-date practices and theories, helping them remain competitive in the job market.
Courses explore cutting-edge topics, including advanced supply chain strategies, innovative project management techniques, and emerging trends in quality control. By staying informed about industry shifts, students are better prepared to anticipate future challenges and seize new opportunities, making them valuable contributors to their organizations. This forward-thinking perspective is a defining strength of the program.
Hands-on Activities
The Master of Business Administration (Operations Management) program offers a strong balance of theory and application, ensuring students gain the knowledge and the practical experience needed to succeed. While it emphasizes analytical problem-solving and foundational concepts, it also incorporates hands-on learning to enhance understanding. Through case studies, group projects, and simulations that mirror real-world operational challenges, students apply classroom concepts in meaningful ways. These activities effectively connect theory to practice, creating a well-rounded and engaging learning experience.
Although the program does not include formal internships or field courses, its practical assignments closely reflect industry expectations. This approach ensures that students develop the skills and competencies essential for success in operations management. With a strong focus on applied learning, the program prepares graduates to step confidently into their professional roles and excel from day one.
What You’ll Learn:
- Production operations management
- Logistics and supply chain strategies
- Project management techniques
- Quality control and improvement methods
- Real-world problem-solving skills
How You’ll Learn:
- Interactive online and on-campus classes
- Real-world case studies
- Faculty-led research inclusion
- Flexible learning options
- Practical application through projects
The core curriculum combines essential business courses with specialized topics in operations management. Students study managerial accounting, marketing strategies, financial management, and organizational behavior, along with advanced coursework in production operations, logistics, supply chain management, project management, and quality control.
This well-rounded curriculum builds a strong foundation in business while developing key operational skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles across diverse organizational settings.
MGT 602G: Production and Operations Management
The focus of this course is on solving challenges associated with planning and controlling world-class manufacturing operations. Both the solutions to production issues and the linkages among them will be examined from the standpoint of key issues, processes, frameworks, technical considerations, and managerial considerations.
MGT 603G: Supply Chain Management
Supply chain management integrates suppliers, manufacturers, and retailers to ensure goods are produced and delivered efficiently, meeting customer needs while minimizing costs. The course covers strategies, tools, and techniques for designing and analyzing supply networks.
MGT 601G: Project/Program Management
The focus of this course is on planning, organizing, directing, and controlling resources for a relatively short-term project objective or fixed-length program that has been established to achieve specific goals and objectives, by applying tools and techniques based on the standard Project Management Body of Knowledge.
Discover the full Master of Business Administration (Operations Management) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates can pursue a range of career paths, each offering ample opportunities for growth and advancement in operations management. The skills and knowledge gained through this program equip students for high-demand roles across various industries.
Production Operations Manager
Production operations managers oversee manufacturing processes, ensuring efficiency and smooth operations. This role includes managing resources, optimizing schedules, implementing process improvements, and maintaining quality standards while ensuring safety compliance.
Logistics Manager
Logistics managers coordinate the movement of goods, overseeing transportation, warehousing, and inventory to ensure timely, cost-effective delivery. This role also involves developing strategies to optimize operations, reduce costs, and enhance service levels, thereby improving overall supply chain efficiency and effectiveness.
Supply Chain Analyst
Supply chain analysts analyze data to identify trends and enhance supply chain performance. They assess processes, develop performance metrics, and recommend improvements to boost efficiency and reduce costs. Their analytical expertise enables organizations to make informed decisions and drive continuous improvement in their supply chain operations.
Project Manager
Project managers oversee planning, execution, and completion of projects, ensuring they stay on schedule and within budget. They coordinate resources, manage risks, communicate with stakeholders, and align project goals with organizational objectives. Their ability to manage complex initiatives is key to operational success.
Quality Control Manager
Quality control managers implement and maintain systems to ensure products and services meet standards. They conduct audits, develop procedures, and train staff in quality practices. Working with production teams, they address issues to ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality products.
MBA applications are accepted throughout the year, and admissions are made continuously. 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 price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $11,817.18* (on-campus) or $12,396.78* (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. The program coordinator is available to discuss how these programs can help students explore their interests and prepare for a variety of rewarding career opportunities.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
FHSU offers several related programs that complement the Master of Business Administration (Operations Management), providing additional opportunities for specialization and career growth:
- Certificate in Operations Management
- Certificate in Management
- Certificate in Management Information Systems - Graduate Level
- Master of Business Administration (Human Resource Management)
This program equips you with skills in operations management, logistics, and project management, making you a valuable asset in various industries. The knowledge gained through this MBA program can open doors to higher-level positions and increase earning potential.
While there are no formal internships, the program includes practical assignments and case studies to simulate real-world operational challenges. These activities ensure that students gain practical experience and are prepared to apply their knowledge professionally.
Information about the Department of Management
The Department of Management at FHSU offers both on-campus and online programs designed to prepare students to lead teams and manage resources effectively in today’s dynamic business environment. With a strong emphasis on leadership development, the programs equip students with the skills needed to handle daily operational challenges and engage in long-term strategic planning.
The curriculum focuses on critical areas such as decision-making, solution-oriented thinking, and team leadership, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the demands of modern management roles. Each program is tailored to align with students' personal and professional goals, providing the tools necessary to succeed across a wide range of industries.
Through hands-on learning experiences, personalized mentorship, and a comprehensive academic approach, students gain the confidence and capabilities to thrive in competitive business settings. The department’s dedicated faculty and staff are committed to supporting each student’s journey, offering guidance and encouragement every step of the way.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Alpha Kappa Psi: Alpha Kappa Psi is a professional co-ed business fraternity dedicated to developing principled business leaders. Founded in 1904 by four students at New York University, the organization has grown into the oldest and largest co-ed business fraternity in the world, with over 298,000 initiated members across 219 universities in four countries.
With a strong network of alumni, Alpha Kappa Psi provides members with valuable professional connections and access to opportunities at some of the world’s most successful companies. The fraternity emphasizes leadership, professionalism, and career readiness, preparing members for lifelong success in the business world.
The Zeta Pi Chapter at FHSU, chartered in 1965, remains an active and engaged part of the campus community. Students interested in joining are encouraged to connect with the chapter’s leadership for more information. - The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM): The SHRM student chapter at FHSU provides valuable resources, industry best practices, and networking opportunities for students interested in human resource management. The organization serves as an excellent platform for those pursuing careers in HR, leadership, management, training, and organizational development.
Through SHRM, students gain exposure to real-world HR practices, connect with professionals in the field, and enhance their academic and career development. Students interested in joining or seeking more information are encouraged to contact Dr. LeAnn Brown, the chapter’s faculty advisor.
- Certificate
- Bachelor's
- MBA
- On-Campus
- Online
