Are You Ready to FINISH YOUR BACHELOR'S DEGREE?
Whether you want to advance in your current field or launch a new career, College of Saint Mary can help you achieve your goals. Start a bachelor's degree or turn your past college credits into a bachelor's degree in Business Leadership.   

• Attend 6 classes per month (See BLD calendar)
• Enjoy energetic, caring faculty who challenge you to be your best
• Move ahead at an accelerated pace
• Stay connected with classmates and professors electronically
• Graduate from a rigorous and well-respected program

New Cohort
Begins Tuesday, August 30, 2011.  
Graduates Tuesday, December 11, 2012. 

Current Cohort
Began Friday, August 27, 2010.  
Graduates Monday, December 12, 2011.  

Mission 
Designed for the working woman who wants to empower herself through education, the mission of the Business Leadership (BLD) program is to provide an academically rigorous business education and a supportive community of leadership practice. 

Purpose 

The purpose of the BLD program is to assist women in building on already-acquired knowledge and experience in management and leadership practices. We are committed to working in partnership with other College of Saint Mary entities to ensure that students attain competencies and confidence necessary to: 

1. Explore problem-solving and risk-taking as part of the learning process 
2. Appreciate diverse characteristics and contributions 
3. Practice critical and creative thinking 
4. Refine practical skills through community outreach and consultation 
5. Achieve personal and professional growth 
6. Recognize their own worth, dignity and leadership potential 
7. Succeed and contribute responsibly in a dynamic global society 

Description 
The Business Leadership program is designed as a 62-credit hour degree completion program for women possessing significant work experience who have the desire and commitment to complete a college degree in about 15 months. This accelerated and compressed program provides core business and leadership competencies through a challenging curriculum, which is designed to thoroughly prepare students for the practical application of both business and leadership skills to the issues they face in their careers.  

The Business Leadership program is divided into four, one-semester modules (see module descriptions). This unique program blends theory and practical application in a way seldom found in an undergraduate curriculum. Students work on research projects with clients who have the opportunity to utilize their business recommendations.   

Each student in the program becomes part of a cohort group. This group of colleagues, as well as the faculty in the program and other staff at CSM, provide a supportive environment for women who may be working, raising a family, caring for elders, and/or actively involved in the community. The Business Leadership program is well-respected and taught by members of the business community and faculty with significant business experience. 

It's Fast! 
Imagine… in about 60 weeks, you could complete your bachelor's degree in Business Leadership or earn a certificate. The BLD program partners with the CSM Business program and other College of Saint Mary programs to assist each student in completing a bachelor's degree that best fits her individual interests (special concentrations are available in human resource management, international business, accounting, finance, marketing, or health care management and sales). 

It's Convenient! 
The Business Leadership program was designed for the 21st Century woman who must constantly balance the demands of a busy life with a career, family and so many other commitments. With classes held one night per week plus one Friday evening per month - coursework is organized in a smooth-flowing format. Each module includes the equivalent of several specific college courses, which are studied one at a time for maximum focus. 

It's Practical! 
By the end of the program, BLD students find that learning and demonstrating leadership skills become second nature. Women who once had butterflies when asked to make an oral presentation have gained confidence and expertise; and those who dreaded designing and developing a written report have gained tools and skills. Students who entered the program because they needed academic credentials leave with a well-rounded, high-quality foundation that qualifies them for a wide variety of positions in business/leadership settings. 

It's Affordable! 
The Business Leadership program is priced competitively (see tuition) and enjoys a tradition of academic excellence. CSM Admissions personnel are available to provide information and assistance in applying for federal and state aid or tuition reimbursement from your company. In addition, several professional organizations, churches and community groups offer scholarship opportunities; and College of Saint Mary offers two $1,000 Business Leadership scholarships.

 
Program Content

View the Program Content for this degree 
View the Class Schedule