FULL-TIME UNDERGRADUATE CALENDAR 2005-2006

The Bachelor of Commerce in Retail Management prepares students for professional careers in the retail/distribution sector and/or to engage in postgraduate studies in this or related areas. The program is designed to develop flexible, people-oriented, analytic and creative retail professionals who have an appreciation of how all of the variables of the retail marketing mix interrelate in a successful retail environment.

Graduates of the Retail Management program may pursue a variety of career options within the industry:

With these career paths in mind, the curriculum is designed to be multi-disciplinary, incorporating teaching and delivery methods which are innovative, creative and technology-based. Teaching/learning methods include: lectures (featuring guest experts from industry), seminars, small and large group activities (focus on teamwork), experiential activities, case studies, role play and field trips. Technology-based delivery methods include: videos, use of video-feedback, audiotapes, computer-assisted learning, CD-ROM, Internet, interactive Internet broadcasting and e-mail.

The four-year program is divided into two parts. First and second years provide students with the knowledge of basic and intermediate theories, concepts and practices related to four themes which are developed throughout the curriculum: Customer Service, People Skills, Technology and Strategy. Studies focus on an overview of the industry, customer service strategies, “people” skills and the acquisition of computer knowledge. This provides students with an integrated perspective of the many facets of a retail organization as well as insight into the broader context of retailing in society. Professional courses introduce students to creative problem solving, critical thought, decision-making, analytical, research and entrepreneurial skills development.

In third and fourth years, students have the opportunity to delve into more advanced (and strategic) theories, concepts and practices. Retailing in the context of the entire supply chain is explored with concepts related to service strategy taking on a broader dimension. Technology is applied to multimedia context. A package of elective courses provides students with flexibility in building a program of study that meets individual needs. Research and consulting skills are developed during third year and during the first semester of fourth year; this is in preparation for an independent project which the student completes under the guidance of a faculty member. The independent project enables students to make an individual contribution to the industry.

In sixth semester, students have the opportunity, subject to availability of spaces and academic performance, to study for a semester abroad. Travel/Study trips to Europe, Asia, and/or North America may be available to students in conjunction with specific courses. (International Retailing or Design, Commerce and Culture). In a given year, students may complete an assignment or a project based on the student’s travel/study experience which will be used in the final assessment of the course.

In eighth semester, an internship-based course in partnership with a number of leading retail organizations, allows students to gain management skills in a real-life environment and provides guidance for career planning. After sixth semester, students are required to obtain work experience through the Internship program. After second and fourth semester, students have the option of obtaining valuable work experience by participating in the Internship program. The School’s Advisory Council Companies offer summer employment to students who seek to enrich their studies with meaningful work experience.

Students must take three lower level liberal studies courses and three upper level liberal studies courses to graduate.

The School of Retail Management offers its curriculum on a part-time basis. Please refer to the 2005-2006 Part-Time Undergraduate Calendar.