The two-year degree program encompasses 62 credit hours and provides students with the theory and practical experiences they will need for careers as entry-level managers in nearly every industry.

“Students are either going to be a manager or working for a manger,” Langan said. “This degree gives you some credentials to move up in your career.”

The degree gives students a well-rounded education because it blends core management and related business courses with liberal arts and elective courses. The result allows students to tailor their degree to obtain entry-level management positions. It also allows current managers to broaden their skills.

Lynda O’Dell Lynch of Port Huron earned her management degree from SC4 and uses it daily. Lynch works for the St. Clair County Probate Court and takes a leadership role in the office of 11 employees.

“The management degree program at SC4 prepared me to handle all aspects of business management,” she said. “In today’s business climate, it is especially helpful to understand management’s perspective.”

Langan said the three core management classes — applied management, human resource management and supervision management — are key to this program. One of the most difficult transitions in a career is from a staffer to a first-level supervisor, he said.

“We provide a base of knowledge. We can prepare them to make knowledgeable decisions.”

The degree program has benefits for those who want to continue their education because it transfers to numerous four-year universities. The entire program seamlessly transfers to Walsh College, for example.

The SC4 classroom learning environment encourages students to contribute to the education. Discussions allow students to share their work experiences.

“They discuss things that work well and don’t work well form a supervisor or employee standpoint,” he said.

Students also have the opportunity to listen to guest speakers in the classroom. The speakers are business professionals who use management skills every day in their careers.

Langan encourages students to earn the degree because it leaves open many opportunities in the business world.

“Get your foot in the door of a business and you stand a better chance of moving up the ranks with this degree,” Langan said.

Click here to view the classes you’ll need for this degree.