MBA 642 - Strategic Planning in a Global Environment

In MBA642, we study how top managers of companies go about designing and implementing strategic plans to successfully compete in global industries.  This is the capstone course to the MBA program, normally taken during the student's last semester.

Each week, we study some of the theoretical underpinnings of strategic planning.  We also study actual companies and industries, using case studies and contemporary articles about companies "in the news."  In that way, we bring the theory to life.  Also, students utilize and integrate all of the analytical tools and skills developed in their previous business courses.

The course covers principles of strategic management and analysis; analysis of strategic alternatives; and strategy implementation and social responsibility.  It also focuses on how companies are governed; and on how they deal with the external and internal challenges and opportunities represented by their various constituencies.

Extensive written individual and team assignments and oral presentations are included.