The executive education program in West Virginia Universitys College of Business and Economics is launching an innovative”MBA Essentials”course this spring.


This seven-week course is designed for forward-thinking professionals who want to enhance their understanding of how various business functions interrelate. Beginning May 8, the course will meet Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 6-9 p.m. through June 25 in the B&E Building, Room 244. Registration for the course is now open and class size is limited to 30.


“Weve taken the instructional areas typically found in MBA programs and created a seven-week, non-degree program that examines each of these topics and the role they play in organizational success,”said Maria Mancini Yester, director of Executive Education.”This program will yield rich rewards for individual participants and the organizations they represent.”


Through case studies, lectures, problem-solving exercises and interactive class sessions, participants will gain the knowledge and skills they need to make informed business decisions on issues affecting their organizations. Several B&E faculty will provide instruction, teaching sessions related to their expertise.


“The MBA Essentials course was planned for a wide range of professional needs,”said Paul Speaker, associate professor of finance and program coordinator.”It will be useful for executives and business school graduates wanting an update on the latest business and management trends.


“Its for technical professionals moving into management positions and needing more background in human resources and management strategies, and for attorneys, doctors, engineers and other professionals who manage their own practice,”he added.”Its also a good idea for anyone considering an MBA degree who wants an overview of WVU s graduate program in business.”


Participants who attend all sessions of the course will be awarded 4.2 continuing education credits from WVU and a certificate of completion from the executive education program. In addition, the program has been approved for continuing education credits from several professional organizations (those interested should call for information on specific areas).


Participants will also receive a comprehensive DISC Profile, course materials, a copy of _The Ten Day MBA _ and a customized portfolio. Worried about missing a meal to attend? Even this detail has been taken care of �€a catered light buffet will precede each class session.


For those interested in the”MBA Essentials”course but unable to attend the spring session, other options are available. Another session is planned for fall 2001. In addition, executive education staff are prepared to customize the course and deliver it on-site for any interested business or organization. The fee for the course is $1,995. To register or for more information about”MBA Essentials”visit the website athttp://www.be.wvu.edu/serve/exed/ESSMBA.htmor contact Yester at 304-293-7963 (email: myester@wvu.edu ) or Speaker at 304-293-7812 (email: pspeaker@wvu.edu ).