Course Descriptions - DMGT

DMGT 700 Management: Theory, History, Philosophy and Practice (3)

An overview of the history and development of management theory and practice in the United States. The comprehensive grounding in the history of management and the study of organizations is critical at the doctoral level. The focus of course readings, projects, and discussions will be on the following: organizational theory, history and development of management theory and practice in the United States, general theories of decision making and organizational leadership, organizational culture, contemporary management thinkers, major schools of organizational thought, social responsibility, and management considerations for a postindustrial society. The theories, concepts, ideas, and practices that inform the study and practice of management are critically analyzed. Analytical, problem solving, application, and evaluation skills are honed by examining current management and organizational issues, challenges, and opportunities. Emphasis is on the ability to critically assess the ideas of others and defend one’s own ideas through the application of material covered in the course.

DMGT 705 Systems Thinking and Systems Dynamics (3)

An introduction to a new way of understanding and managing operational and strategic issues in public and private organizations. Organizations are faced with accelerating social, economic, and technological changes that create increasing complexity and uncertainty. The traditional tools and approaches of management are becoming increasingly inadequate in dealing with these issues and too often create unanticipated side effects. Applying the systems thinking approach develops the capability to see the world and organizations in terms of complexity and interdependences. Systems dynamics tools and models are used to simulate and experience the short-term and long-term impacts and side effects of decisions and understand the ways in which the performance of an organization is tied to its internal structure and operating policies, as well as those of its customers, competitors, and suppliers.

DMGT 710 Economic Factors of Competition (3)

A study of the economic and financial forces affecting the organization in its internal and external environment. Financial and economic decision making are considered as appropriate responses to these forces in a global context. Topics covered include global economic issues, interest rates and the economy, value-based management, enterprise risk management, reshaping the organization, outsourcing, capital investments, intellectual capital, mergers and acquisitions, performance management, transparency in financial reporting, and corporate governance.

DMGT 715 Technological Factors in Organizations (3)

An exploration of the origin, nature, and role of technology in business, with special emphasis on the management of technology. Examined is how to integrate technological factors into business planning with emphasis on the impact of “change” as new technologies are introduced. Topics covered include the nature of technology, the nature of innovation, research and development, technology and society, and the future of technology. As illustration of technology factors, the course focuses upon several areas of rapid development, including information technology, biotechnology, and new material technology.

DMGT 720 Research Methods for Management Decision-Making (3)

A grounding in applied research for managers, serving as an introduction to critical thinking; the nature of knowledge; and active, participatory, and interactive research as important managerial skills. The process and logic of inquiry are presented for examining research issues and problems as a key for understanding management theory, organizational behavior, and managerial decision making. Topics covered include an introduction to epistemology, which includes an understanding of the philosophy of science through the presentation of topics such as empiricism, falsification, and paradigms and paradigm shifts. Theory construction and concept identification are also discussed. Quantitative, qualitative, and “mixed” methods of data gathering and the interpretation of results, such as surveys, field studies, case studies, and quasi-experimental designs, are introduced. A major emphasis is placed on measurement and error, incorporating a discussion of validity and reliability. Emphasis is placed on the articulation of research questions to appropriate methodological approaches. This includes demonstrating information literacy and technological fluency in the assessment of data sources and evaluation of methodological decisions. Students are assessed through case studies, research papers, and the application and appraisal of different research tasks.

Prerequisite: A graduate course in statistical methods or demonstrated competency in statistical methods to the satisfaction of the department.

DMGT 725 Problem Solving and Practical Research Design (3)

A foundation in fundamental quantitative methods and modeling within an applied management framework. A link is provided between the quantitative topic of probability/statistics and management science. A variety of topics are covered, with the aim of using practical quantitative analysis for making management decisions. This course has several purposes. The first is to acquaint students with the various quantitative methods that are available to perform management research. The second purpose is to help students improve their ability to perform advanced statistical analysis, modeling, simulations, and optimization techniques. These quantitative procedures are performed using EXCEL and other simulation/optimization program add-ins, along with interpreting the results. The third is to improve their critical thinking, writing, and research skills surrounding management science concepts.

DMGT 730 Research Design and Specialization Framework (3)

An opportunity to develop, present, and critique topic papers that may lead to doctoral dissertation projects. Participants: 1) identify and describe an appropriate topic area; 2) clarify the purpose and importance of their proposed research; 3) identify and critically review relevant literature; 4) review theories, concepts, ideas, and practices related to the effective design of applied research; 5) develop an appropriate methodological framework for their study; and 6) articulate how their proposed research will contribute to the current knowledge base and practice.

DMGT 740 Managing in the Global Environment (3)

An overview of four perspectives on strategic management within an international and global context. One perspective focuses on strategy and the competencies that are required for managers to function effectively. A second perspective concerns trade and financial issues, while a third perspective considers the political and legal context of decision making when many nation states are in play. The role of stakeholder and corporate social responsibility also are examined. The fourth perspective covers issues arising from differing country cultures and how they affect the management of firms operating transnationally. Students will consider the forces and values shaping these perspectives in terms of a firm and its industry and how these forces and values may shape the working strategy of a particular firm, viewed globally and within the context of an assigned country.

DMGT 745 Technological Innovation Management (3)

A comprehensive study of the role of technology and the application of technological innovations for competitive advantage. Technology is a major force affecting all aspects of an organization’s operation. Topics include the opportunities and threats in the external environment, and the strengths and weaknesses within the organizations to prepare to take a technology-based, productivity-driven, innovative path to global competition. Operational models that ensure that technology and socio-economic systems are mutually supporting are developed and applied. Policy issues related to research and development, international technology transfer, technological appropriateness for sustainable economic growth, and intellectual property rights are explored.

DMGT 750 Advanced Readings in Management (3)

Students will identify readings and identify more precisely the dissertation’s focus, which began in DMGT 730. This course will focus on developing research questions, identifying data sources, expanding the resource base and knowledge of the topic and related areas, and related issues identified by the student’s advisor, so that the students have a strong view of the field under study.

DMGT 760 Literature Review in Management (3)

This course is a continuation of DMGT 750. The course consists of an analysis and critical review of the literature in the various fields, with an appended annotated bibliography. The critical review requires significant reading in focused areas and identifying the relationships, patterns, and challenges among the varied authors and concepts. This will provide the student with an in-depth view of the varied perspectives on the focus area identified in DMGT 750.

DMGT 770 Integrated Research Management (3)

The work of the advanced readings (DMGT 750) and literature review (DMGT 760) courses are integrated and a link between the literature and the proposed methodology for the dissertation is developed. A strong framework for the actual research work of the dissertation is developed. As in DMGT 750 and DMGT 760, students and faculty will provide feedback to each other’s work during the semester.

DMGT 791 Dissertation Research: Proposal (3)

The proposal is a brief document (15-25 pages) that focuses the ideas, reading, and research of the previous courses (especially DMGT 730, 750, 760, and 770) and leads to the direction that the student will take in completing the dissertation. The document identifies the major areas for study; the research questions, hypotheses, methods, and the resources that will be used; the reasons for this direction; the value to the field; and applicability. Since this is an applied program, it is important that the proposal reflect this approach. If the project involves work with “human subjects,” approval from UMUC is required at this point, and a copy of the approval document must be attached to the proposal.

Prerequisites: Successful completion of the comprehensive examination and an approved dissertation committee.

DMGT 792 Dissertation Research: Concept/Stakeholder Paper (3)

Prerequisites: DMGT 791 and successful completion of Dissertation Research Proposal.

DMGT 793 Dissertation Research I (3 or 6)

Prerequisites: DMGT 792 and successful completion of the concept/stakeholder paper.

This course may be taken in one semester as a 6-credit course otherwise, it will be taken in two semesters as a 3-credit course in each semester.

DMGT 799 Dissertation Research (1)

Continuing registration for students who have advanced to candidacy and are now in the dissertation phase of the DM program.