Virginia Commonwealth University

What you'll study

The MBA core builds a foundation in finance, marketing, accounting, strategy and leadership, while the Management and Operations emphasis adds specialised courses that cover the design, planning and control of operations. Typical modules include:

• Operations Management: process analysis, capacity planning, production and service operations.
• Supply Chain Management: logistics, sourcing, distribution, inventory and supplier relationships.
• Quantitative Methods and Analytics: decision modelling, forecasting, optimisation and data‑driven decision making.
• Project and Program Management: project planning, risk management and performance measurement.
• Lean and Quality Management: continuous improvement, Six Sigma principles and operational excellence.
• Strategic Management and Leadership: integrating operations with business strategy, change management and organisational behaviour.

Students typically complete the core MBA requirements and then choose a set of electives from the operations and management track. The programme emphasises applied learning through case studies, group projects, simulation exercises and opportunities for internships or practicum projects with local firms.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in any discipline. Admissions typically consider undergraduate transcripts, professional résumé, letters of recommendation and a personal statement outlining career goals and fit with the programme. The GMAT or GRE may be requested but many applicants with substantial managerial experience may be eligible for a waiver; international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through approved test scores or prior study in English if required. Relevant work experience strengthens an application for the Management and Operations focus, particularly for part‑time or executive pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates with an MBA in Management and Operations move into roles that require both strategic perspective and practical operational expertise. Common job titles include operations manager, supply chain analyst or manager, production manager, process improvement consultant, project manager and logistics manager. The programme prepares students for careers across manufacturing, distribution, retail, healthcare operations, consulting and public‑sector operations, with many graduates progressing to senior leadership roles responsible for efficiency, cost control and service delivery.

Why study at Virginia Commonwealth University

Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Business offers an AACSB‑accredited MBA with flexible delivery options that suit full‑time students and working professionals. Located in Richmond, the university provides strong connections to a diverse regional economy that includes healthcare systems, manufacturing firms and logistics companies, which support internships and applied projects. Faculty combine academic research with real‑world experience in operations and supply chain topics, and the school emphasises experiential learning, industry engagement and resources to help students transition into operations and general management careers.