COLLEGE OF BUSINESS RICHARDS
– Janiah Clark, Economics “ ”
Not only did I find the support I wanted, but I found the family I needed.
GREETINGS FROM THE DEAN
At the Richards College, we are in the business of transforming lives through education, engagement, and experiences. Through exceptional academic programs and real-world experiences that transcend the boundaries of the classroom, our graduates leave prepared for successful professional careers and equipped to make a positive impact on the communities where they live and serve.
During their time in the Richards College of Business, students enjoy a family-like environment, supported by a world-class, caring faculty and staff. Our unwavering commitment to providing relevant, high-caliber academic programs and experiences, as well as our dedication to nurturing the immense potential within each of our students, are underscored by our recognition as a Best Business School by the Princeton Review and a top-ranked online MBA program by U.S. News and World Report.
As an AACSB-accredited business school, we believe that business can be a force for good, creating a positive societal impact and improving the quality of life for all in our community. In addition to degree programs that produce successful and responsible business leaders, several college-affiliated centers, including the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), the Center for Business and Economic Research (CBER), the Center for Economic Education and Financial Literacy (CEEFL), and the Stone Center for Family Business, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation provide important resources for our students as well as individuals and businesses in our community.
I invite you to explore the various majors, minors, and certificate programs that we offer, which span the gamut of business. Wherever your interest lies, there is a place for you in the Richards College of Business. We welcome the opportunity to help launch your career and have you join the ranks of our outstanding alumni worldwide who are making their mark as successful entrepreneurs, business professionals, and industry leaders.
We look forward to being a part of your educational and career journey. Go West, and Go Wolves!
CAREER CONNECTIONS @ RICHARDS COLLEGE
Students have the opportunity to meet employers through various networking opportunities provided by the college. Many of our students secure internships and full-time employment through our career programming. Our partnership with the Office of Career Services allows us to provide excellence in career resources and programming for our students.
AVERY ANDERSON ‘22 ‘23
“Because of the career connections program, I was able to begin a full-time position at Norfolk Southern, where they also assisted with my tuition for my master’s degree.”
DEFINE YOUR PATH HERE.
– Kendal Sparks “ ”
In college, I’ve learned that it’s truly what you make of it. Embracing leadership opportunities has not only opened doors but has also enabled me to build a network of like-minded individuals and immerse myself in meaningful opportunities.
EXPLORE THE WORLD DISCOVER YOU MAKE YOUR MARK
The college offers a variety of programs designed to provide students with the opportunity to study in different countries and learn within diverse cultures.
The Richards College of Business is committed to providing its students with the tools they need to succeed in the world of business.
Our college’s Career Connections program provides students with access to internships, job opportunities, and other career-related resources.
CREATE YOUR LEGACY HERE.
The Richards College of Business at the University of West Georgia is a place where students can develop their business skills and apply them to real-world scenarios. The college provides students with a variety of creative concepts, business development opportunities, and student development initiatives such as:
• Business Pitch Competitions
• Professional Conferences
• Research Opportunities
• College Ambassador Program
STUDENT LEADERSHIP AND ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
• Finance Club
• Marketing Club
• Economics Club
• Accounting Club
• Management Club
• Supply Chain Club
• Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Society
• Management Information Systems Club
• Richards College Student Ambassadors
• Southwire Business Leadership Program
• Women in Technology (WIT)
• Collegiate Entrepreneurs' Organization (CEO)
• Omicron Delta Epsilon–Economics Honor Society
The Southwire Business Leadership Program (SBLP is a strategic partnership with Southwire Company LLC that encourages, motivates, and mentors students to contribute toward meaningful business and community initiatives.
FOREVER WEST.
The Richards College of Business at the University of West Georgia is committed to a strong relationship with alumni and opportunities to engage with them. Through the alumni network, we strive to provide a platform for alumni to give back, engage with each other, and build successful careers. The college offers various platforms for alumni to be engaged, such as networking opportunities and mentorship programs.
JOE NORTON ‘08
“UWG was the perfect place to earn my bachelor’s degree. I built life-long friendships, collaborated with people form all walks of life, and was inspired by my entrepreneurial professors with real-world experience.”
CORI YOUNG ’08, ’13
“The genuine and lasting connections created between professors and students at UWG empowered my career success before graduation. UWG provided the supportive community and resources I needed for a thriving career journey.”
DWIGHT BARTHELMY ‘11 ‘13
“One great thing about UWG is its diversity. Being a part of the UWG culture encourages you to mix and mingle with people who wouldn’t otherwise be in your social circle. I loved having that opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds and cultures.”
GO WEST. GO ABROAD.
Studying abroad is an endeavor that can take you to places you’ve only dreamed of and help you understand today’s global business environment. Studying abroad will also help your career, add a unique appeal to your resume, and give you the competitive edge you need for today’s job market. You will develop cross-cultural communication skills and gain the ability to analyze and adjust to local customs and cultural contexts.
PARTIAL SEMESTER STUDY ABROAD
Partial Semester Programs offer a study abroad opportunity for the beginning or intermediate traveler and are sponsored by individual Richards College departments. You will be registered for at least one 3-hour Special Topics in Business course. As part of the course, you will travel with your professor for approximately one to two weeks. You must have taken 45 credit hours to be eligible to register for Special Topics in Business courses.
Want to know what it’s like when West Goes Around the World? Check out Travel Vlog!
DEGREE PROGRAMS
The Richards College of Business has four departments that offer a wide range of bachelor’s degree programs and several master’s level programs.
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES
• Accounting
• Finance
• Economics (BBA or BS)
• Data Intelligence and Business Analytics
• Management with concentrations in - Human Resources
- Supply Chain Management
- Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management
- Project Management
• Management Information Systems with concentrations in - Cybersecurity and Networking
- Business Systems and Analytics
• Marketing
GRADUATE DEGREES
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Professional Accounting
• Master of Science in Applied Business Analytics
• Master of Science in Strategic Cybersecurity and Information Management
IT ALL ADDS UP.
DEPARTMENT OF ACCOUNTING AND FINANCE
Excellence in education, modern tools, and contemporary theory. What’s the result? Students with incredible business acumen who are well-rounded, efficient, and prepared for real-world jobs.
BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION WITH A MAJOR IN ACCOUNTING
With a B.B.A. in accounting, students will receive a liberal arts-based education that will prepare them for career opportunities in a variety of fields:
• Accounting in industry
• Government Accounting
• Tax Accounting
• Forensic Accounting
• Public Accounting in local, regional, and national organizations.
BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION WITH A MAJOR IN FINANCE
With a B.B.A. in finance, you will gain the essential skills needed to pursue entry-level positions in finance across local, regional, or national organizations.
In addition to a general finance degree, we offer three concentrations: Financial Analytics, Investment Analytics, and Corporate Analytics. These pathways can equip you for various career opportunities, including:
• Financial Manager
• Financial Analysts
• Credit Analysts
• Commercial Banker
LUIS SCOTT, JR.’05
“All of the necessary attributes required for a successful career - discipline, accountability, hard work, and patience - are tenents of the Richards College of Business . It took me 15 years to become an overnight success, and UWG was the catalyst for it all becoming a reality for me.”
EXPAND YOUR POTENTIAL.
DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMICS
Majoring in economics provides excellent preparation for many careers in business and for more advanced study in business, law, and other related disciplines. The department emphasizes real-world experience through research, internships, and community engagement.
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE WITH A MAJOR IN ECONOMICS
The B.S. degree in economics provides a flexible course of study that meets the needs of both those interested in graduate studies in the field of business, as well as those simply looking to complete their undergraduate degree. It provides opportunities to double major in a field outside of business.
Concentrations:
• Pre-Law
• Communication
• History
• Business
Embedded Certificate in Data Analytics: The data analytics certificate can be completed by students in conjunction with any major program at UWG. The certificate is designed for students who aspire to work in academic, government, non-profit and business sectors.
BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION WITH A MAJOR IN ECONOMICS
The B.B.A. program with a major in economics is designed for students interested in careers in business, government, or with a non-profit. This degree provides strong analytical and communication skills as well as a broad coverage of all aspects of how businesses operate in the U.S. and world economies.
BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION WITH A MAJOR IN DATA INTELLIGENCE AND BUSINESS ANALYTICS
The B.B.A. program with a major in data intelligence and business analytics focuses on teaching students how to use available information to recognize patterns, develop insights, and build a competitive advantage in business. The major offers courses that employ a variety of programming languages, visualization tools, and research techniques used in today’s data-focused business world.
YOU ARE YOUR BRAND.
DEPARTMENT OF MARKETING
Marketing is an essential business activity that involves understanding markets, targeting attractive segments, and delivering superior products and services that create value for consumers, partners, and society at large. Our Marketing degree offers students cutting-edge training in the art and science of marketing and prepares them for future-oriented careers in this rapidly growing field.
BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION WITH A MAJOR IN MARKETING
The Department of Marketing offers a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in marketing. This degree prepares students for a wide range of careers in marketing, including:
• Brand/Product Management
• Sales Promotion
• Sales Management
• Personal Selling
• Advertising
• Public Relations
• Retailing
• Direct Marketing
• International Marketing
• Marketing Research
AMERICAN MARKETING ASSOCIATION
The Marketing Club participates in the American Marketing Association International Collegiate Conference annually in New Orleans. In 2024, over 3,400 attendees from five countries and 250 universities joined, offering networking and knowledge expansion in marketing.
GO MAKE A NEW WORLD.
DEPARTMENT OF MANAGEMENT
The Department of Management prepares students for exciting career opportunities in Management and Management Information Systems. Some management graduates actually start their own businesses, while others begin their careers in established organizations.
BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION WITH A MAJOR IN MANAGEMENT
Our B.B.A. in management prepares students for careers in a variety of different organizations and industries. Students can focus their studies in one of four concentrations. Many of our courses have online options for maximum flexibility.
Human Resource Management:
• This concentration prepares students for high demand jobs in employment relations, training and development, talent acquisition, and total rewards.
Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management:
• This concentration is designed for students who want to start their own business. Students work with experienced faculty in courses such as The Creative Startup and Small Business Survival Skills.
Supply Chain Management:
• This concentration prepares students for high-demand job market in areas such as logistics, inventory control, and supply chain management.
Project Management:
• This concentration prepares students for careers such as event managers and project coordinators. Students examine how to provide control and structure to projects in organizations.
We also encourage students to pursue professional certifications such as the aPHR or the Lean Six Sigma Green Belt.
AMANDA LUCEY ‘06
“UWG prepared me for the career I have through lifelong connections and opportunities that were made readily available to me as a student. From professors to classmates, the educational backdrop is a foundation that helped prepare me for the next stages of my growth.”
B.B.A. WITH A MAJOR IN MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS (MIS)
Our B.B.A. in Management Information Systems (MIS) prepares students for careers in areas such as business systems analyst, database administrator, or cybersecurity analyst. Additionally, students can focus their studies in one of our two concentrations: business systems and analytics, or cybersecurity and networking. We also encourage students to pursue professional certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or the SAP Certification.
Cybersecurity and Networking:
• This concentration prepares students for high-demand jobs in cybersecurity, networking, and the internet of things (IoT). As part of their coursework, students will explore areas such as cybercrime and digital forensics.
Business Systems and Analytics:
• This concentration prepares students for highdemand careers in enterprise systems and data analytics. Students gain hands-on experience in areas such as SAP and data-mining.
Students in the MIS program have an opportunity to engage in many learning experiences in our state-ofthe-art, SAP Next Gen Lab.
MARTAVIOUS GORDON 21’ 22’
“The College of Business at UWG has provided me with countless opportunities for success and access to various resources. Thanks to the hands-on experience that my professors offered me, I was able to network globally, and I now have connections in Germany, Italy, and New York.”
COLLEGE LEADERSHIP
JOHN UPSON, PH.D. ASSOCIATE DEAN, PROFESSOR OF MANAGEMENT
Roy Richards Sr. Hall Dean’s Suite 678-839-6467 jupson@westga.edu
THOMAS GAINEY, PH.D. DEPARTMENT CHAIR & DAVID H. HOVEY DISTINGUISHED SCHOLAR PROFESSOR
Roy Richards Sr. Hall 678-839-4828 tgainey@westga.edu
HEATHER BONO, PH.D. CHAIR & ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF ACCOUNTING & FINANCE
Roy Richards Sr. Hall 678-839-4814 hrichard@westga.edu
RICHARDS COLLEGE ADVISING CENTER
What classes should you take? What counts towards your major? How do I plan for a future career? The University Advising Center can help plan for the future and help plan for now.
Each major has a specific advisor. Scan the QR code to identify who advises your major. WHO’S YOUR ADVISOR?
SALIL M. TALPADE, PH.D. CHAIR AND PROFESSOR OF DEPARTMENT OF MARKETING
Roy Richards Sr. Hall 678-839-6318
stalpade@westga.edu
WILLIAM SMITH, PH.D. DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMICS CHAIR & DAVID A. JOHNSON PROFESSOR IN PREDICTIVE ANALYTICS
Roy Richards Sr. Hall 678-839-4779 wjsmith@westga.edu
ROY RICHARDS SR HALL RM 101
678-839-4770
rcac@westga.edu
Office Hours: 8:00am - 5pm
Richards College of Business is one of 780 business schools in 53 countries and territories that have earned AACSB Accreditation.
AACSB Accreditation is the hallmark of excellence in business education and has been earned by less than 5% of the world’s business schools.
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