University of Oregon MBA candidates now have an additional curricular specialization to enhance their Lundquist College experience.
The advanced strategy and leadership specialization of the Oregon MBA brings together, in a cross-disciplinary way, the business domains of finance, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and sports business (the four distinct curricular tracks of the Oregon MBA) into a holistic framework.
By taking courses in leadership and negotiation, as well as the Oregon Advanced Strategy course, MBA students in each curricular track gain exposure to the various disciplines of business and undertake an integrative capstone course that brings together concepts and strategies that resonate best with the c-suite and the boardroom, grooming the next generation of effective CEOs.
The specialization is the manifestation of intent of the Professor of Practice designation at the University of Oregon and demonstrates how such professors bring value to students and the institution. Former Patagonia CEO Michael Crooke, the University of Oregon's first Professor of Practice, is the founding director of the advanced strategy and leadership specialization. Fall 2017 is the start date for this new offering.
James F. and Shirley J. Rippey Professor of Practice Scott Kerslake, former CEO at prAna living, founder of ATHLETA, and now CEO of Nixon watches, taught the Oregon Advanced Strategy course during the 2016-17 academic year and is scheduled to co-teach it with Crooke this academic year.
The advanced strategy specialization is its own standalone specialization, but it may be added as a complement to any of the other four MBA specializations: innovation and entrepreneurship, sustainable business practices, finance and securities analysis, or sports business. The curriculum for advanced strategy requires students to take one course from each of the other four specialization areas.
“This new specialization reflects a modern approach to strategy, leadership, and negotiation, including surveys of our four specializations, with an eye toward environmental and social considerations," said Crooke, Avamere Professor of Practice. “Together, the courses provide a strong foundation for anyone looking to lead or start the next world-changing enterprise."
In April, the college hosted its first Randy Papé Advanced Strategy and Leadership Symposium. Made possible through a gift from the Papé family, the symposium welcomed some 250 students and community members to learn and interact with iconic leaders in state-of-the-art sales, customer acquisition, and engagement strategies.