BUSN 203 - Introduction to Business

3 Credits: (3 lecture)

Course Description
This course is an introductory study of various aspects of business and society in our economic system dealing with organizations, methods of operation, forms of ownership, functions and problems of management.

Text
Nickels, W., McHugh, J. & McHugh, S. (2024).  Understanding business: 2024 release.  New York City, NY: McGraw-Hill Education. 

Objectives
The student will be able to: 

A. Describe the growth of international business and the functions of our business enterprise. 

B. Describe the significance of small business and the growth of the U.S. service sector. 

C. Recognize the need to manage information and communication technology. 

D. Explain the role of ethics and social responsibility within business. 

E. Analyze and demonstrate the importance of career preparation. 

Content
A. Introducing the World of Business: 1) The U.S. Business System; 2) Conducting Business in the U.S. 

B. The Contemporary Business Environment: 1) Legal Context of Business; 2) Business Ethics and Social Responsibility; 3) Global Context of Business 

C. The Business of Managing: 1) Managing and Organizing the Business Enterprise; 2) Entrepreneurship; 3) Small Business 

D. Understanding People in Organizations: 1) Motivating, Satisfying and Leading Employees; 2) Human Resources and Labor Relations 

E. Managing Operations and Information 1) Production and Quality; 2) Accounting; 3) Information Systems 

F. Marketing: 1) The Marketing Process and Consumer Behavior; 2) Developing, Pricing, Promoting and Distributing Products 

G. Financial Issues: 1) Money and Banking; 2) Securities and Investments.

Student Evaluation
Student evaluation is based on five one-hour examinations, including a final exam, and at least one written assignment.  Projects may be used as the need for them arises. 

Note: All Introduction to Business students are required to submit written assignments as part of their grade.  This is in conjunction with the “Writing Across the Curriculum” to enhance students’ abilities in communication and to further evaluate their communication skills.