Chapman University’s Argyros School of Business and Economics hasn’t been idle during the pandemic.
In the past year, it’s started a new Data Analytics Accelerator program and a Master’s of Science in Real Estate, as well as a revamped entrepreneurship program to be released next year.
“Our growth has shown just how much we can get done without any students around,” joked Tom Turk, dean of the Argyros School. “That said, it’s so wonderful to have students back [this fall]. We pride ourselves on personalized education and networking opportunities, both of which are hard to do through Zoom.”
Data Analytics Accelerator
The Data Analytics Accelerator, launched a year ago, is designed to prepare students for high-paying, “21st century jobs” in a market that’s expected to reach $103 billion by 2023.
The accelerator program will provide networking opportunities for students and hands-on experience to develop competence in analytics for their future careers, the school said.
“Our students have the creativity, intelligence and articulacy that employers demand,” assistant professor Jonathan Hersch said about the program. “Now they have the technical certifications that employers love to see before offering generous salaries and leadership positions.”
The program is directed by Marshall Toplansky, a research fellow at the Center for Demographics and Policy, who also co-authored “The OC Focus” with professor and geographer Joel Kotkin.
MSRE
Also last fall, the Argyros school launched its first Master’s in Real Estate (MSRE) program.
School officials say the “rigorous” new program features frequent guest speakers, leading professionals from within the real estate industry who offer real-world expertise and guidance for students who are just starting out.
“There has never been a more important time, or a more opportune time, to become a part of the real estate industry in Southern California,” Turk told the Business Journal. “We designed this program for people who want to make a real impact on the economy and how people live their lives. Whether they come from a real estate background or not, they will find the connections and knowledge they need to be successful.”
Its 2020 class saw 60 guest speakers and a 100% employment rate, according to Turk.
“All graduates had jobs at graduation and did really well,” Turk said.
Entrepreneurship Curriculum
Since Mario Leone was named director of Chapman’s Ralph W. Leatherby Center for Entrepreneurship and Business Ethics in 2019, he’s been keen on revamping its curriculum.
“We looked at a dozen schools across the country, saw their course offerings and came up with our own minor and emphasis programs, including minors available for non-business majors,” he said.
The new curriculum will be part of the 2022 catalogue, Leone said, adding that two “experimental” classes will be launched early in the spring of 2022. The first is called “Customer Awareness,” which focuses on acquiring customers, and the second is called “Entrepreneurial Failure.”
“Everyone wants to talk about success stories but there’s a lot to learn from the pitfalls,” Leone said. “Having a semester that analyzes those businesses can be very beneficial for your development.”
The reason? Because business development doesn’t come from just the business school, according to Leone.
Leone hopes other non-business majors will engage with the entrepreneurship program, from computer science to engineering and pharmaceuticals.
“Only 20% of our students are in business,” Leone added. “We want the other 80% to bring their insights.”
