Applied Business Studies

S. Hji-Avgoustis, Chairperson

The Department of Applied Business Studies offers industry-specific educational opportunities to equip students with the practical skills and knowledge needed to excel in fashion, hospitality, and property management.

We are deeply committed to high-impact practices, including immersive learning experiences and undergraduate research, which provide students with hands-on opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in real-world contexts. Through projects such as Optimus Primary, Food Insecurity, Maplewood Guest House, Beeman Collection, Weidner Center of Property Management, and faculty-mentored undergraduate research, our students engage in meaningful, community-centered work that prepares them for leadership and innovation in their chosen fields.

Our faculty and students actively contribute to industry and community engagement at the local, state, and national levels. These experiences foster professional development, civic responsibility, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

Our vision is to be the leader in applied business knowledge, fostering the development of future leaders in the fashion, hospitality, and property management industries. We emphasize the connection between theory and practice, preparing our students to lead with innovative ideas and creative problem-solving abilities.

 
Students may select programs in:  

• Fashion Industry Studies explores the foundations of fashion design and merchandising, along with the industry's theory and practice, which includes promotion, marketing, buying, manufacturing, and visual merchandising. This program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), ensuring the highest art and design education standards.
• Hospitality Innovation and Leadership – a study of management and financial service practices in the core industry areas of event planning, food and beverage management, and hotel operations. The curriculum integrates the Miller College of Business’s business core and actively seeks AACSB accreditation, aligning with globally recognized standards in business education.
• Property Management encompasses the development, management, operation, marketing, legal, and financial aspects of running apartment and multi-family housing, commercial offices, hospitality, retail, and other sectors of real estate investments that are operated for commercial purposes.