Business Administration: Retail Management

Provides an overview of retail management. Key perspectives that shape the field including strategic planning, merchandising, and competitive advantage are emphasized. Prerequisites: BUS 2500; Business Administration major or minor; Master of Accountancy Graduate Students; minimum Junior standing.

Prereqs enforced by the system: BUS 2500; BSAD majors or BSAD minors only; Minimum Junior standing; Open to MACC students if approved by the Graduate College. Contact the Graduate College for information. Open to Degree and PACE students

This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the foundations of the retailing field. Key perspectives that shape the retail marketplace including environmental influences, retail relationships, and retailing practices will be emphasized. What is a retailer? “A retailer is a business that sells products and/or services to consumers for their personal or family use. Retailers are a key component in a supply chain that links manufacturers to consumers."

Upon completion of this course, you should: 1. Understand the basic composition and structure, as well as the dynamic nature of the retail marketplace; 2. Understand the role played by retailers as members of the marketing channel and the broader marketplace; 3. Be able to evaluate and recognize important elements of retail success; and 4. Be in possession of a well-developed, tangible example of your professional capabilities in the form of an expert analysis on a specific retail organization.

EXAMS: Two exams will be given during the term. Exams will be a combination of multiple choice, short answer and essay questions. All material covered in the class is potential test material; this includes assigned text chapters, cases, assigned readings, guest speaker presentations, activities, handouts and lecture material. RETAIL EXPERT ASSESSMENT ASSIGNMENT: You will be asked to work individually to prepare an expert assessment on the retailer of your choice. Details on this assignment are given in a separate handout. CASE ASSIGNMENTS: You will complete 2 case write-ups and engage in their scheduled in class discussions for this components of the course. Details on this assignment are given in a separate handout. CLASS ENGAGEMENT: Several elements play a role here: your attendance at assigned classes, your professionalism and preparation, and most importantly, the quality of your contributions to our class sessions and discussions. High grades in this category are reserved for students with substantive and thoughtful contributions on a regular basis, excellent attendance, and professional conduct and communication.