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Marshall University: 3 pathways to a 21st century career

If you’re looking for a business education that combines innovation with a supportive atmosphere, Marshall University’s Lewis College of Business is the place to be. Ranked among the Best Business Schools in the Southeast and #9 for having the most competitive MBA students, it offers a dynamic environment for learning and growth.

Here, students develop the skills and expertise needed to become standout business professionals in West Virginia and beyond. 

The school has four departments, each offering specialized programs designed to bring success to students of various interests and career paths. A focus on experiential learning and external engagement ensures this, giving students many opportunities to connect with the ever-evolving business world and apply their knowledge in real-world situations. 

Here are three programs that can set you up for success in the 21st century:

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Marshall University’s Lewis College of Business is accredited by AACSB International, a global organization that ensures quality and supports over 1,700 members and 800 accredited business schools worldwide. Source: Marshall University

1) Health Informatics

The only one of its kind in West Virginia, the Master of Science in Health Informatics program combines healthcare and technology to improve healthcare services and management. This STEM-designated program prepares students for the growing intersection of healthcare and technology, making it ideal for clinicians and technicians interested in both fields.

Ranked as the nation’s most affordable Master’s in Health Informatics by MBA Healthcare Management, the program is known for its quality and value. The curriculum combines coursework with internships at academic, government, and industry levels. Real-world exposure is valuable and a given for anyone joining the program. The Health Informatics Practicum (HIN 650) requires students to complete at least 400 hours in an educationally directed internship –  a great way to network and boost one’s career readiness.

With a high demand for Health Informatics professionals, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a growth of 11% in medical records and health information technician roles. Graduates can pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, government agencies, and more – many have landed roles like data analysts, project managers, and chief information officers.

2) Accounting

With dual accreditation in both business and accounting from AACSB International — an honor earned by only 186 schools worldwide — both Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Accounting and Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) students at Marshall are guaranteed a top-tier education.

The STEM-designated MSA program offers a flexible learning experience with options for virtual, in-person, or hybrid classes at the cutting-edge Brad D. Smith Center for Business and Innovation. This dynamic format allows students to tailor their education to fit their needs while actively engaging with classmates and instructors.

The curriculum includes six core courses that explore key areas like audit practice, analytics, and business ethics. Students can then specialize in one of three focus areas: business analysis, tax compliance, or information systems. Each emphasis offers a set of courses designed to prepare them for success in their chosen field

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As an international student, your graduate degree from Marshall University may qualify you for up to 36 months of Optional Practical Training in the United States upon graduation. Source: Marshall University

Beyond academics, Marshall’s accounting students engage with professionals through events like Student Night, Visit the Firms, Beta Alpha Psi, VITA, and internships. These opportunities build connections within the industry, giving students real-world experience and making them part of the professional community before they even graduate.

“There are several positions – lots – posted on Handshake with typically more positions than we have students to fill them,” says Dr Timothy G. Bryan, CPA, Assistant Professor of Accounting.

Past projects have included collaborations with the Huntington Police Department, Peerless Block, and Brick Company, and the State Auditors.

Upon graduation, students in the local area secure employment in the US$55,000 to US$85,000 range as starting positions. “Advancement opportunities are typically rapid and significant, with students achieving six-figure income levels within five years,” Professor Dr. Bryan says.

3) Management Information Systems

Management Information Systems (MIS) is all about understanding the relationship between people, technology, and organizations. It helps businesses get the most out of their investments in personnel, technology, and business processes. As a field focusing on service through technology, MIS professionals create systems to manage data — whether it’s storing, searching, or analyzing it — and ensure these systems meet the needs of managers, employees, and customers.

“With recent developments in artificial intelligence, the MIS major is more important and relevant than at any time in history,” Professor Rick Weible says.

The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in MIS program prepares students for the future of technology, with many opportunities for community involvement. Students have worked with local businesses to analyze technology needs and offer practical solutions.

The result? Versatile careers for past cohorts. Graduates are now thriving in various roles, from data analysts to network administrators and IT managers. Many even land high-paying roles with top companies in virtually every industry. “Some of our graduates have joined the Marshall IT staff, and others have gone to work for major companies such as Oracle,” Professor Weible says. “With the advent of artificial intelligence, learning how to use this phenomenal tool is the most essential skill any college graduate can gain.”

Learn more about Lewis School of Business.

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