College of Business
Graduate
Dean: Michael D. Hartline; Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs: Kathleen A. McCullough; Associate Dean for Academic Operations: Richard Morton
The College of Business is one of a select group of business programs in the country fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). This accreditation includes all undergraduate, master's and doctoral programs in business and separate accreditation of the bachelor's and master's programs in accounting.
Since its beginning in 1950, the College of Business has developed into a major unit that provides quality business education for students employed in regional and national organizations. The faculty and programs of the college are committed to educating and developing future business leaders and executives. This commitment to quality is reflected in three essential areas: a talented and dedicated faculty, an outstanding student body, and a close relationship with the business community. Over the years, the College of Business has been successful in building a very capable and motivated business faculty. Faculty members throughout the several business disciplines are very productive researchers and effective teachers. These faculty members also maintain important contacts with the business community through various types of service and applied research activities.
As a result of capable and dedicated faculty, the College of Business has been able to attract highly qualified students. Business students have strong analytical and communicative aptitudes and have a spirit of enterprise and creativity. The interaction of these types of students with highly qualified business faculty, coupled with well-designed business program options, creates a stimulating learning environment.
Lastly, the achievements of the College of Business have been recognized by the business community in the form of development funds for scholarships, endowed chairs, professorships, teaching and research grants, and other program activities.
Programs Offered
The College of Business offers curricula leading to the following:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Accounting (MAcc)
- Master of Science in Finance (MSF)
- Master of Science in Business Analytics (MS-BA)
- Master of Science (MS) in Risk Management-Insurance (MS-RMI)
- Master of Science (MS) in Management Information Systems (MS-MIS)
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration.
The Master of Business Administration (MBA) program is offered in four formats: 1) part-time evening, on-campus; 2) part-time, online; 3) full-time, on-campus; and 4) accelerated evening, on-campus. The part-time evening on-campus program and part-time online program can be completed in twenty-eight months by taking two evening or online courses each semester and both programs admit every summer, fall and spring semesters. The full-time, on-campus program can be completed in one year (three semesters) starting in the fall (late August) semester and only admits in the fall term. The accelerated evening, on-campus program can be completed in four semesters with admission only in the fall term. The MBA program incorporates nine core courses aimed at strengthening managerial skills and four electives to tailor the MBA curriculum to suit specific careers. Electives may be chosen from other areas in the College of Business with approval of the Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs.
The Combined Bachelor of Science in Finance/Master of Business Administration (BS-FIN/MBA) Pathway allows Florida State University students majoring in finance to streamline their studies. Admitted students are able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS in Finance and MBA degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-FIN/MBA pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.
The Combined Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management/Master of Business Administration (BS-HRM/MBA) Pathway allows Florida State University students majoring in human resource management to streamline their studies. Admitted students are able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS in Human Resource Management and MBA degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-HRM/MBA pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.
The Combined Bachelor of Science in Marketing/Master of Business Administration (BS-MAR/MBA) Pathway allows Florida State University students majoring in marketing to streamline their studies. Admitted students are able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS in Marketing and MBA degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-MAR/MBA pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.
The Combined Bachelor of Science in Professional Sales/Master of Business Administration (BS-PS/MBA) Pathway allows Florida State University students majoring in marketing-professional sales to streamline their studies. Admitted students are able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS in Marketing-Professional Sales and MBA degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-MAR-PS/MBA pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.
The Combined Bachelor of Science in Real Estate/Master of Business Administration (BS-RE/MBA) Pathway allows Florida State University students majoring in real estate to streamline their studies. Admitted students are able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS in Real Estate and MBA degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-RE/MBA pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.
The Combined Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems/Master of Business Administration (BS-MIS/MBA) Pathway allows Florida State University students majoring in management information systems to streamline their studies. Admitted students are able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS in Management Information Systems and MBA degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-MIS/MBA pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.
The Combined Bachelor of Science in Risk Management and Insurance/Master of Business Administration (BS-RMI/MBA) Pathway allows Florida State University students majoring in risk management and insurance to streamline their studies. Admitted students are able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS in Risk Management and Insurance and MBA degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-RMI/MBA pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.
The Master of Accounting (MAcc) program is designed to allow the student to major in either Assurance and Advisory Services, Generalist, or Taxation. This program provides students with greater breadth and depth in accounting education than can be accomplished in the baccalaureate program. Although the MAcc program is designed as a full-time program, students may choose to complete their coursework on a part-time basis.
The MAcc program qualifies as a Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) degree, as defined by the Department of Education. This assures graduates of employer demand and allows graduates on student visas to extend their U.S. work-stay up to two years longer.
The Combined Bachelor of Science in Accounting/Master of Accounting (BS/MAcc) Pathway allows Florida State University students majoring in accounting to streamline their studies. Admitted students can register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS and MAcc degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS/MAcc pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Accounting (MAcc) program.
The Master of Science in Finance (MSF) program is a one year, lockstep, full-time, on-campus program that emphasizes the applied aspects of finance. The MSF program also offers a specialization in real estate finance and investment in which students focus on real estate finance courses instead of risk management and investment or international banking courses.
The MSF program qualifies as a Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) degree, as defined by the Department of Education. This assures graduates of employer demand and allows graduates on student visas to extend their U.S. work-stay up to two years longer.
The Combined Bachelor of Science in Real Estate/Master of Science in Finance (BS-RE/MSF) Pathway allows Florida State University students majoring in real estate with a strong combination of advanced analytical skills in finance and real estate to compete for positions emerging within leading companies. Admitted students can register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS-RE and MSF degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-RE/MSF pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Science in Finance (MSF) program.
The Combined Bachelor of Science in Finance/Master of Science in Finance (BS-FIN/MSF) Pathway allows Florida State University students majoring in finance to streamline their studies. Admitted students can register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS in Finance and MS in Finance degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-FIN/MSF pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Science in Finance (MSF) program.
The Master of Science in Business Analytics (MS-BA) program was developed to address the need for specialized training in business analytics. The MS-BA program is a full-time, on-campus program with entry occurring in the summer semester. The program is designed so that students can complete the degree in three semesters.
The college also offers an Internet-based Master of Science in Management Information Systems (MS-MIS) program. The program is designed so that a typical student can complete the degree in twenty-four months by taking two online courses each semester.
The Combined Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems/Master of Science in Management Information Systems (BS-MIS/MS-MIS) Pathway allows Florida State University students majoring in management information systems to streamline their studies. Admitted students can register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS in Management Information Systems and MS in Management Information Systems degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-MIS/MS-MIS pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Science in Management Information Systems (MS-MIS) program.
The Master of Science in Risk Management-Insurance program is available entirely via the Internet and is designed for working professionals. This program can be completed in twenty-four months by taking two online courses each semester.
The Combined Bachelor of Science in Risk Management and Insurance/Master of Science in Risk Management and Insurance (BS-RMI/MS-RMI) Pathway allows Florida State University students majoring in risk management and insurance to streamline their studies. Admitted students are able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS in Risk Management and Insurance and MS in Risk Management and Insurance degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-RMI/MS-RMI pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Science in Risk Management and Insurance (MS-RMI) program.
The objective of the doctoral program in business is to prepare students for careers in university research and teaching, as well as for selected administrative and research positions in industry and government. Students receive the Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration degree and concentrate in accounting, finance, management information systems, marketing, organizational behavior and human resources, risk management and insurance, or strategy.
More specific information on all our graduate programs is available on the College of Business website at https://business.fsu.edu/graduate.
The College of Law and the College of Business offer a joint graduate pathway leading to the Juris Doctor (JD) and the Master of Business Administration (MBA) degrees. The College of Social Work and the College of Business offer a joint graduate pathway leading to the Master of Social Work (MSW) and the Master of Business Administration (MBA) degrees.
Institutes and Centers
The Carl DeSantis Executive Education Center sponsors numerous outreach programs that strengthen the relationship between College of Business faculty and the business community.
The Institute for Applied Business Research (formerly the Florida Institute for Marketing Alternative Transportation and The Marketing Institute) was created to provide valuable market research and education/training programs to professionals in the transportation, sports, hospitalities, and professional service industries. Operated by a talented team of faculty, staff, and students, the Institute for Applied Business Research seeks to identify consumer attitudes and behavior that impact their purchase of products and services.
The Florida State University Organizational Effectiveness Institute facilitates networking among management professionals, faculty and students and establishes and transfers best practices that support the advancement of effective organizations in an ever-changing workplace.
The FSU Real Estate Center fosters interaction among students, faculty and the real-estate community through forums in which executives and world-class scholars exchange ideas and share their insights with students.
The FSU Sales Institute provides world-class sales education and training utilizing the most updated sales training technologies developed through continuous research.
The Gene Taylor/Bank of America Banking and Financial Studies Center encourages excellence in education through research and service activities related to banking and finance.
The Risk Management Risk Management and Insurance Center engages in meaningful and timely research projects designed to assist the industry, regulators, academics and consumers in understanding the insurance business and provides solutions to current insurance issues.
The Truist Free Enterprise Center supports initiatives that offer students various perspectives on free enterprise and ethics.
Facilities
The Charles A. Rovetta Business Building and Annex is ideally located near the center of campus adjacent to Strozier Library and the Oglesby Union. It contains modern classrooms, faculty and staff offices, and numerous support facilities. The College of Business Technology Center houses state-of-the-art computer laboratories and training rooms. It provides students access to the latest technology used in business. The College of Business Undergraduate Programs Office and Graduate Programs Office provide students with a wide variety of advising services.
Legacy Hall, the new building for the College of Business, will provide more instructional space, foster connections and collaboration, and integrate learning with the latest technologies. Legacy Hall features five floors to accommodate future growth; a central atrium to promote connection and collaboration; forum stairs with seating; a 300-seat auditorium for classes and speaking events; multipurpose event space; dedicated Professional Development; and a Financial Trading Room. Legacy Hall will be the largest academic space on FSU's campus. The anticipated move-in date is late 2025, the year that marks the 75th anniversary of the College of Business.
Scholarships/Awards
Both master's and doctoral students are eligible to apply for numerous fellowships and assistantships provided at the university level. In addition, the College of Business provides substantial financial assistance to doctoral students. The College of Business assistantships/fellowships are awarded to doctoral students whose application materials reflect high academic and professional performance, potential, maturity, and a strong ability to teach and communicate with students.
Requirements
Admission Requirements
The Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) (preferred) or the GRE are optional and should be submitted if they will enhance the application. Any submitted test scores become part of the application. For students whose native language is not English, the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Pearson Test of English (PTE), the newly approved tests of Cambridge English Language Assessment, the Michigan Language Assessment or Duolingo is required. In addition, international students receiving funding as teaching assistants must successfully complete the Test of Spoken English (TSE). The TOEFL and the TSE are also offered in a combined exam known as the iBTOEFL (Internet-based TOEFL).
Admission to all graduate programs in business is based upon the following factors: upper division grade point average (GPA) in previous university-level courses; verbal, quantitative, and total scores on the GMAT (or GRE), if submitted; TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, Cambridge English Language Assessment, Michigan Language Assessment or Duolingo score, if applicable; letters of recommendation that speak specifically to the ability of applicants to successfully complete the graduate program to which they are applying; relevant work experience; and a personal statement of goals. For those students applying to the Master of Accounting program, the undergraduate upper-division accounting GPA is also considered. For those students applying to the Master of Science in Finance program, the undergraduate upper-division finance and real estate GPAs are also considered.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) Program: Thirty-nine semester hours are required for the accelerated full-time, accelerated – evening, part-time, and online programs. A one-hour Professional Development course is required each term for the full-time program. Applicants who do not have an undergraduate degree in business are expected to have a general knowledge of economics, finance, accounting, statistics, calculus, and management principles through prior work experience and/or coursework. For full-time students, the three-semester program begins in the Fall term only (late August) and the application deadline is March 1st to be considered for competitive assistantships that provide financial assistance, while June 1st is the application submission deadline for fall entry. The accelerated-evening program is offered over four semesters and allows students to complete MBA coursework in the evenings at a faster pace than typical part-time students while freeing up daytime hours to gain valuable work experience. The accelerated-evening program begins in the fall term only (late August) and the application deadline is June 1st. The part-time and online programs begin in the Fall (late August), Spring (early January), and Summer (early May) terms. The application deadline is June 1st for Fall, October 1st for Spring and March 1st for Summer.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Finance/Master of Business Administration (BS-FIN/MBA) Pathway: Florida State University Students majoring in finance can opt for the combined bachelor's/master's pathway that allows them to streamline their studies. Admission is based upon an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA, and an upper-division finance GPA based on at least two upper-division finance courses. Eligible students apply for the combined pathway by the end of the second semester of their junior year. Admitted students are then able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS-Finance and MBA degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-FIN/MBA pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management/Master of Business Administration (BS-HRM/MBA) Pathway: Florida State University Students majoring in human resource management can opt for the combined bachelor's/master's pathway that allows them to streamline their studies. Admission is based upon an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA, and an upper-division human resource management GPA based on at least two upper-division human resource management courses. Eligible students apply for the combined pathway by the end of the second semester of their junior year. Admitted students are then able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS-Human Resource Management and MBA degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-HRM/MBA pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Marketing/Master of Business Administration (BS-MAR/MBA) Pathway: Florida State University Students majoring in marketing can opt for the combined bachelor's/master's pathway that allows them to streamline their studies. Admission is based upon an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA, and an upper-division marketing GPA based on at least two upper-division marketing courses. Eligible students apply for the combined pathway by the end of the second semester of their junior year. Admitted students are then able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS-Marketing and MBA degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-MAR/MBA pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Professional Sales/Master of Business Administration (BS-PS/MBA) Pathway: Florida State University Students majoring in professional sales can opt for the combined bachelor's/master's pathway that allows them to streamline their studies. Admission is based upon an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA, and an upper-division marketing GPA based on at least two upper-division marketing courses. Eligible students apply for the combined pathway by the end of the second semester of their junior year. Admitted students are then able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS-Professional Sales and MBA degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-PS/MBA pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Real Estate/Master of Business Administration (BS-RE/MBA) Pathway: Florida State University Students majoring in real estate can opt for the combined bachelor's/master's pathway that allows them to streamline their studies. Admission is based upon an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA, and an upper-division real estate GPA based on at least two upper-division real estate courses. Eligible students apply for the combined pathway by the end of the second semester of their junior year. Admitted students are then able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS-Real Estate and MBA degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-RE/MBA pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems/Master of Business Administration (BS-MIS/MBA) Pathway: Florida State University Students majoring in management information systems can opt for the combined bachelor's/master's pathway that allows them to streamline their studies. Admission is based upon an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA, and an upper-division management information systems GPA based on at least two upper-division management information systems courses. Eligible students apply for the combined pathway by the end of the second semester of their junior year. Admitted students are then able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS-Management Information Systems and MBA degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-MIS/MBA pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Risk Management and Insurance/Master of Business Administration (BS-RMI/MBA) Pathway: Florida State University Students majoring in risk management and insurance can opt for the combined bachelor's/master's pathway that allows them to streamline their studies. Admission is based upon an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA, and an upper-division risk management and insurance GPA based on at least two upper-division risk management and insurance courses. Eligible students apply for the combined pathway by the end of the second semester of their junior year. Admitted students are then able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS-Risk Management and Insurance and MBA degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-RMI/MBA pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.
Master of Science in Risk Management-Insurance (MS in RMI) Program is an online, corporate program designed for the insurance professional and requires completion of thirty-three semester hours of graduate level coursework. The MS in RMI program begins only in the Summer term. It is offered on a distance-learning basis, via the Internet, to allow the working professional to obtain the degree. The application deadline is March 1st for the Summer term.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Risk Management and Insurance/Master of Science in Risk Management and Insurance (BS-RMI/MS-RMI) Pathway: Florida State University Students majoring in risk management and insurance can opt for the combined bachelor's/master's pathway that allows them to streamline their studies. Admission is based upon an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA, and an upper-division risk management and insurance GPA based on at least two upper-division risk management and insurance courses. Eligible students apply for the combined pathway by the end of the second semester of their junior year. Admitted students are then able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS-Risk Management and Insurance and MS-Risk Management and Insurance degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-RMI/MS-RMI pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Science in Risk Management and Insurance (MS-RMI) program.
Master of Science in Management Information Systems (MS in MIS) Program: The management information systems major requires completion of thirty-three semester hours. This program is offered only in an online format. Applicants must have at least two years of IT-related work experience, as well as a basic understanding of programming languages, database concepts, and software analysis and design. Students can enter the MS in MIS program in the Fall (late August), Spring (early January), or Summer (early May) terms. The application deadline is June 1st for Fall, October 1st for Spring, and March 1st for Summer.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems/Master of Science in Management Information Systems (BS-MIS/MS-MIS) Pathway: Florida State University Students majoring in management information systems can opt for the combined bachelor's/master's pathway that allows them to streamline their studies. Admission is based upon an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA, and an upper-division management information systems GPA based on at least two upper-division management information systems courses. Eligible students apply for the combined pathway by the end of the second semester of their junior year. Admitted students are then able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS-Management Information Systems and MS-Management Information Systems degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-MIS/MS-MIS pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Science in Management Information Systems (MS-MIS) program.
Master of Accounting (MAcc) Program: This is a thirty-semester hour program that allows admission any term. Students can enter the MAcc program in the Fall (late August), Spring (early January), or Summer (early May) terms. The application deadline is June 1st for Fall, October 1st for Spring, and March 1st for Summer. The MAcc program is designed as a full-time, daytime program; however, students may attend on a part-time basis under certain circumstances. Applicants who do not have an undergraduate degree in accounting may enter a two-year program designed to ensure completion of appropriate prerequisites.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Accounting/Master of Accounting (BS/MAcc) Pathway: Florida State University Students majoring in accounting can opt for the combined bachelor's/master's pathway that allows them to streamline their studies. Admission is based upon an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA, and an upper-division accounting GPA based on at least four upper-division accounting courses. Eligible students apply for the combined pathway after the end of the second semester of their junior year. Admitted students are then able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS and MAcc degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS/MAcc pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Accounting (MAcc) program.
Master of Science in Finance (MSF) Program: All students start in the Summer (Second six weeks, Summer “C” session; third week of June) semester and complete the program the following Spring semester. The program consists of thirty-two semester hours and includes a blend of theory, empirical analysis, and applications. The application deadline is March 1st for the summer term. The MSF program also offers a specialization in real estate finance and investment in which students focus on real estate finance courses instead of risk management and investment or international banking courses.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Real Estate/Master of Science in Finance (BS-RE/MSF) Pathway: Florida State University Students majoring in real estate with a strong combination of advanced analytical skills in finance and real estate can compete for positions emerging within leading companies. Admission is based upon an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA, and an upper-division finance and real estate GPA based on at least four upper-division finance and real estate courses. Eligible students apply for the combined pathway by the end of the second semester of their junior year. Admitted students are then able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards the BS-RE and MSF degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-RE/MSF pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Science in Finance (MSF) program.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Finance/Master of Science in Finance (BS-FIN/MSF) Pathway: Florida State University Students majoring in finance can opt for the combined bachelor's/master's pathway that allows them to streamline their studies. Admission is based upon an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA, and an upper-division finance GPA based on at least two upper-division finance courses. Eligible students apply for the combined pathway by the end of the second semester of their junior year. Admitted students are then able to register for up to nine semester hours of graduate courses that count towards both the BS-Finance and MSF degrees during their senior year. Students admitted to the combined BS-FIN/MSF pathway will still be required to apply separately to the Master of Science in Finance (MSF) program.
Master of Science in Business Analytics (MS-BA) Program: This thirty-three-semester hour, on-campus program admits in the summer term and is designed to be completed in three semesters while registering on a full-time basis. The application deadline is March 1st for the summer term. The program focuses on three key areas: data used for business analytics, methods and techniques used in business analytics, and managerial issues in business analytics.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration Program: Admission is only for the Fall term in order to be eligible for financial support and to provide an optimum program schedule (some programs admit every other Fall term). The application deadline for domestic and international students is March 1st. For priority review of applicants seeking financial support, application materials should be submitted by January 15th. For current information, please visit our website at https://business.fsu.edu/phd.
Individuals interested in the graduate programs offered by the College of Business should contact: The Graduate Office, College of Business, P.O. Box 3061110, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 32306-1110, or via email at gradprograms@business.fsu.edu or visit our website at https://business.fsu.edu/graduate. Enrollment in graduate business courses is severely limited by both space and accreditation standards.
Readmission Requirements
Graduate students who have withdrawn, who have not been enrolled for two consecutive semesters, or who have been academically dismissed are required to meet the graduation and retention requirements of the Graduate Bulletin that is in effect at the time of their readmission. Students who left on dismissal must first resolve that with the academic dean before a readmission decision can be made.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) Program
The MBA program prepares promising students for successful careers in business and management. It provides high-quality business and management education with a professional, career-long perspective by developing the student's capacities and skills for decision making, leadership, and communications. The program also develops in students a spirit of enterprise, confidence, creativity, and attitude which is needed for advancement to positions of increasing responsibilities.
The MBA curriculum at Florida State University emphasizes the application of various business and management concepts to the decision-making process. The curriculum also exposes the student to the various functions of business and management, recognizing that the career of a successful manager will span multiple functions. This exposure not only provides students with an understanding of the interrelationships among various business and management operations and decisions, but it also provides a sound foundation for growth and development through subsequent experience and education after graduation.
All applicants to the MBA program, whether on a full-time or part-time basis, are expected to have a general knowledge of economics, finance, accounting, statistics, calculus, and management principles through prior work experience, which includes internships, and/or coursework. It is recommended that applicants have some full-time work experience in a professional or supervisory position. Internship experience will be considered.
The part-time, evening, and online MBA programs are structured for students who hold full-time positions and will require seven semesters to complete. The full-time program is completed within twelve calendar months (three semesters). Coursework usually is scheduled during the day. The accelerated-evening program is offered over four semesters and allows students to complete MBA coursework in the evenings at a faster pace than typical part-time students while freeing up daytime hours to gain valuable work experience.
The thirty-nine-semester hour part-time program includes nine standard core courses taught by a variety of departments within the College of Business. The remaining four courses are electives.
Full-time MBA students are also required to complete a one-hour Professional Development course each term; the full-time MBA program is a thirty-nine hour program, which includes nine standard core courses, three electives, and the one-hour Professional Development course each term.
Electives may be chosen from other areas in the College of Business with approval of the Senior Associate Dean for Academic Programs.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Finance/Master of Business Administration (BS-FIN/MBA) Pathway
Highly qualified Florida State University finance students can take up to nine hours of coursework that will double count for undergraduate and graduate degree requirements. Students must meet an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA and an upper-division finance GPA on at least two upper-division finance courses. Combined pathway students must maintain an average of 3.00 GPA or higher in graduate coursework. Apply for the BS-FIN/MBA program before registering for senior-level finance courses. This program also creates a unique opportunity for students wishing to go directly to work and then enter our part-time or online MBA program. Students entering this program within four years of undergraduate graduation will still be able to use these credits as long as they are able to graduate within seven years of the first graduate course.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management/Master of Business Administration (BS-HRM/MBA) Pathway
Highly qualified Florida State University human resource management students can take up to nine hours of coursework that will double count for undergraduate and graduate degree requirements. Students must meet an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA and an upper-division human resource management GPA on at least two upper-division human resource management courses. Combined pathway students must maintain an average of 3.00 GPA or higher in graduate coursework. Apply for the BS-HRM/MBA program before registering for senior-level human resource management courses. This program also creates a unique opportunity for students wishing to go directly to work and then enter our part-time or online MBA program. Students entering this program within four years of undergraduate graduation will still be able to use these credits as long as they are able to graduate within seven years of the first graduate course.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Marketing/Master of Business Administration (BS-MAR/MBA) Pathway
Highly qualified Florida State University marketing students can take up to nine hours of coursework that will double count for undergraduate and graduate degree requirements. Students must meet an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA and an upper-division marketing GPA on at least two upper-division marketing courses. Combined pathway students must maintain an average of 3.00 GPA or higher in graduate coursework. Apply for the BS-MAR/MBA program before registering for senior-level marketing courses. This program also creates a unique opportunity for students wishing to go directly to work and then enter our part-time or online MBA program. Students entering this program within four years of undergraduate graduation will still be able to use these credits as long as they are able to graduate within seven years of the first graduate course.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Professional Sales/Master of Business Administration (BS-PS/MBA) Pathway
Highly qualified Florida State University professional sales students can take up to nine hours of coursework that will double count for undergraduate and graduate degree requirements. Students must meet an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA and an upper-division marketing GPA on at least two upper-division marketing courses. Combined pathway students must maintain an average of 3.00 GPA or higher in graduate coursework. Apply for the BS-PS/MBA program before registering for senior-level marketing courses. This program also creates a unique opportunity for students wishing to go directly to work and then enter our part-time or online MBA program. Students entering this program within four years of undergraduate graduation will still be able to use these credits as long as they are able to graduate within seven years of the first graduate course.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Real Estate/Master of Business Administration (BS-RE/MBA) Pathway
Highly qualified Florida State University real estate students can take up to nine hours of coursework that will double count for undergraduate and graduate degree requirements. Students must meet an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA and an upper-division real estate GPA on at least two upper-division real estate courses. Combined pathway students must maintain an average of 3.00 GPA or higher in graduate coursework. Apply for the BS-RE/MBA program before registering for senior-level real estate courses. This program also creates a unique opportunity for students wishing to go directly to work and then enter our part-time or online MBA program. Students entering this program within four years of undergraduate graduation will still be able to use these credits as long as they are able to graduate within seven years of the first graduate course.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems/Master of Business Administration (BS-MIS/MBA) Pathway
Highly qualified Florida State University management information systems students can take up to nine hours of coursework that will double count for undergraduate and graduate degree requirements. Students must meet an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA and an upper-division management information systems GPA on at least two upper-division management information systems courses. Combined pathway students must maintain an average of 3.00 GPA or higher in graduate coursework. Apply for the BS-MIS/MBA program before registering for senior-level management information systems courses. This program also creates a unique opportunity for students wishing to go directly to work and then enter our part-time or online MBA program. Students entering this program within four years of undergraduate graduation will still be able to use these credits as long as they are able to graduate within seven years of the first graduate course.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Risk Management and Insurance/Master of Business Administration (BS-RMI/MBA) Pathway
Highly qualified Florida State University risk management and insurance students can take up to nine hours of coursework that will double count for undergraduate and graduate degree requirements. Students must meet an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA and an upper-division risk management and insurance GPA on at least two upper-division risk management and insurance courses. Combined pathway students must maintain an average of 3.00 GPA or higher in graduate coursework. Apply for the BS-RMI/MBA program before registering for senior-level risk management and insurance courses. This program also creates a unique opportunity for students wishing to go directly to work and then enter our part-time or online MBA program. Students entering this program within four years of undergraduate graduation will still be able to use these credits as long as they are able to graduate within seven years of the first graduate course.
Master of Science in Risk Management-Insurance (MS in RMI) Program
The Master of Science in risk management program is an online, corporate program designed for the insurance professional. It requires completion of thirty-three semester hours of graduate level coursework and is offered on a distance-learning basis, entirely via the Internet, to allow the working professional to obtain the degree. The focus is on property and liability insurance. All eleven courses which comprise the program can be completed in twenty-four months and taken from anywhere in the world. Quality and convenience are paramount. The curriculum recognizes that industry professionals are not involved solely with insurance issues – they must face difficult financial, ethical, legal, and global concerns as well. The program structure, therefore, hones a student's ability to analyze these issues from different perspectives, fosters critical thinking, and engenders the discipline needed to become a successful manager.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Risk Management and Insurance/Master of Science in Risk Management and Insurance (BS-RMI/MS-RMI) Pathway
Highly qualified Florida State University risk management and insurance students can take up to nine hours of coursework that will double count for undergraduate and graduate degree requirements. Students must meet an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA and an upper-division risk management and insurance GPA on at least two upper-division risk management and insurance courses. Combined pathway students must maintain an average of 3.00 GPA or higher in graduate coursework. Apply for the BS-RMI/MS-RMI program before registering for senior-level risk management and insurance courses. This program also creates a unique opportunity for students wishing to go directly to work and then enter our online MS-RMI program. Students entering this program within four years of undergraduate graduation will still be able to use these credits as long as they are able to graduate within seven years of the first graduate course.
Master of Science in Management Information Systems (MS in MIS) Program
The management information systems major requires completion of thirty-three semester hours. All MS in MIS applicants must have at least two years of IT-related work experience. The MS in MIS program is primarily designed for students who want to manage in technology oriented environments. All students complete a set of MIS core classes that cover topics such as project management, management of technology, knowledge management and business intelligence, electronic business, and social and organizational issues related to information systems. It is offered on a distance-learning basis, entirely via the Internet, to allow working professionals to obtain the degree.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems/Master of Science in Management Information Systems (BS-MIS/MS-MIS) Pathway
Highly qualified Florida State University management information systems students can take up to nine hours of coursework that will double count for undergraduate and graduate degree requirements. Students must meet an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA and an upper-division management information systems GPA on at least two upper-division management information systems courses. Combined pathway students must maintain an average of 3.00 GPA or higher in graduate coursework. Apply for the BS-MIS/MS-MIS program before registering for senior-level management information systems courses. This program also creates a unique opportunity for students wishing to go directly to work and then enter our online MS-MIS program. Students entering this program within four years of undergraduate graduation will still be able to use these credits if they are able to graduate within seven years of the first graduate course.
Master of Accounting (MAcc) Program
The objective of the curriculum leading to the Master of Accounting degree is to provide students with greater breadth and depth in accounting education than can be accomplished in the baccalaureate program. Because of the increasingly complex nature of the accounting and controllership functions, as well as the growing responsibilities of the accountant, graduate study beyond the baccalaureate degree is desirable for a career in accounting.
The Master of Accounting degree consists of thirty semester hours (plus undergraduate foundation work if required). Students select a concentration in either Assurance and Advisory Services, Generalist, or Taxation.
The usual prerequisite for admission to the Master of Accounting curriculum is an undergraduate degree in business with a major in accounting. Applicants who present other undergraduate degrees will be required to complete foundation work in accounting and business administration prior to enrolling in graduate courses. The general graduate admissions policies of the College of Business also apply.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Accounting/Master of Accounting (BS/MAcc) Pathway
Highly qualified Florida State University accounting students can get a head start on graduate school by taking up to nine credit hours that will double count toward bachelor's and master's degree requirements. Students must meet an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA, and an upper-division accounting GPA on at least four upper-division accounting courses. Combined pathway students must maintain an average of 3.00 GPA or higher in graduate coursework. Preferred application deadlines are May 1, August 1, or December 1 in the second semester of a student's junior year.
Master of Science (MSF) in Finance Program
Courses consist of a blend of theory, empirical analysis, and applications. Throughout the program, there is heavy emphasis on the applied aspects of finance. Students are frequently involved in analysis and modeling efforts that resemble what they are likely to confront in their careers. Relevant theory and empirical analysis that underlie real-world decision making are also emphasized, as understanding such material is essential to truly grasp the decision-making process utilized in finance. The MSF program also offers a specialization in real estate finance and investment in which students focus on real estate finance courses instead of risk management and investment or international banking courses.
Prerequisites include Financial Accounting, a beginning course in Financial Management (FIN 3403 or its equivalent), Investments (FIN 4504 or its equivalent), and Problems in Financial Management (FIN 4424 or its equivalent).
Combined Bachelor of Science in Real Estate/Master of Science in Finance (BS-RE/MSF) Pathway
Highly qualified Florida State University real estate students can take up to nine hours of coursework that will double count for undergraduate and graduate degree requirements. Students must meet an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA and an upper-division finance and real estate GPA on at least four upper-division finance and real estate courses. Combined pathway students must maintain an average of 3.00 GPA or higher in graduate coursework. Apply for the BS-RE/MSF program before registering for senior-level real estate courses.
Combined Bachelor of Science in Finance/Master of Science in Finance (BS-FIN/MSF) Pathway
Highly qualified Florida State University finance students can take up to nine hours of coursework that will double count for undergraduate and graduate degree requirements. Students must meet an overall GPA, an upper-division GPA, and an upper-division finance GPA on at least two upper-division finance courses. Combined pathway students must maintain an average of 3.00 GPA or higher in graduate coursework. Apply for the BS-FIN/MBA program before registering for senior-level finance courses.
Master of Science in Business Analytics (MS-BA) Program
The purpose of the Business Analytics master's program is to develop student's in-depth skills in analyzing large datasets and making strategic business recommendations based on this analysis. Graduates of the program will be prepared for positions across a wide range of industries, such as the technology industry, online retail industry, transportation industry, the military, medical industry, insurance industry, etc. In addition to employment opportunities, graduates of this program will be prepared to enter business analytic-focused doctoral programs.
The MS-BA program requires completion of eleven courses (thirty-three semester hours) which consists of eight core courses (twenty-four semester hours) and three electives (nine semester hours). Previous coursework in business is not required, but all applicants are expected to have a general knowledge of economics, finance, accounting, statistics, calculus, and management principles. This full-time, on-campus program begins in the summer semester and can be completed by the following spring semester.
Juris Doctor (JD)/Master of Business Administration (MBA) Joint Graduate Pathway
The College of Law and the College of Business offer a joint graduate pathway leading to the Juris Doctor (JD) and the Master of Business Administration (MBA) degrees. Applicants to the program must fulfill the normal entrance requirements of both colleges. Admission into the joint graduate pathway must be made prior to the end of the first year of law school. After students have been admitted to the colleges of Law and Business, they must have their curriculum approved by the joint committee responsible for the administration of the program.
Further information may be obtained from: The Graduate Office, College of Business, P.O. Box 3061110, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306-1110; https://business.fsu.edu/mba#mbalaw; or via email at gradprograms@business.fsu.edu.
Students interested in the JD/MBA pathway should also contact the Director of Admissions, College of Law, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306-1610; https://law.fsu.edu/academics/academic-programs/joint-graduate-pathways-law/business-and-law; or via email at admissions@law.fsu.edu.
Master of Social Work (MSW)/Master of Business Administration (MBA) Joint Graduate Pathway
The College of Social Work and the College of Business offer a joint graduate pathway leading to the Master of Social Work (MSW) and the Master of Business Administration (MBA) degrees. Program applicants must fulfill the normal entrance requirements of both colleges. The joint graduate pathway is designed for students in both programs who wish to expand their understanding of the connection between these two fields of study and to gain expertise working in social-services agencies.
Further information may be obtained from: The Graduate Office, College of Business, P.O. Box 3061110, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306-1110; https://business.fsu.edu/mba#mbasw or via email at gradprograms@business.fsu.edu.
Students interested in the MSW/MBA pathway should also contact the Director of Admissions, College of Social Work, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306-2570; https://csw.fsu.edu/academics/master-social-work-msw/programs-study; or via email at msw@csw.fsu.edu.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration Program
The purpose of the doctoral program is to prepare candidates for careers in university research and teaching, as well as for administrative and research positions in business, government, and philanthropic organizations.
The doctoral curriculum emphasizes scientific study of decision making in an administrative context and the development of research abilities. The major thrusts of the business administration curriculum are professional discipline and theoretical research, which lead to further development of the discipline and to scholarly problem solving.
Program of Study
Candidates for the Doctor of Philosophy in business administration degree must satisfy the graduate faculty of the college that they have achieved:
- a mastery of a primary area of concentration,
- a high degree of proficiency in a support area, and
- a competency in the use of analytical and research tools.
Students will plan their program in consultation with a major professor and an advisory committee. The primary area of study must be selected from either accounting, finance, management information systems, organizational behavior and human resources, strategy, marketing, or risk management and insurance. A support area may be selected from a nonbusiness discipline or from another business discipline.
A minimum of one year of teaching and/or research is required of all candidates for the Doctor of Philosophy in business administration degree.
Preliminary Examinations
Comprehensive written examinations are given over the primary and support areas upon completion of all coursework. An oral examination may be given over the student's primary and support areas once written examinations have been completed. The entire examination process will normally take place within the scope of a single semester. While the analytical and research tools area does not include a comprehensive examination, students must earn a grade of “B” or better in each of the courses in the area. All incomplete grades must be removed prior to taking the doctoral primary and support exams and enrolling for dissertation hours.
Dissertation
Each doctoral candidate will undertake research on a subject approved by the dissertation committee. The student must demonstrate critical judgment in performing the investigation, and the finished dissertation must be a scholarly study that advances knowledge in the discipline. After completion of the dissertation, a final oral examination covering the candidate's research is required. Students must register for dissertation credit each term during which they are in the dissertation phase of their program. A minimum of twenty-four semester hours of dissertation credit must be earned. Students are not permitted to enroll for and receive dissertation credit until they have passed all their doctoral preliminary examinations.