Specializations
Customize your Fisher experience
Chart your own path with a business specialization that aligns with your goals. Fisher students choose from 11 distinct specializations—or the Business Management program offered on our regional campuses—to gain deep expertise in a specific area of business. You’ll work closely with your academic advisor to tailor a course plan that may also include minors or a second major outside of business. To support your journey, Fisher’s Office of Career Management offers tools, coaching and resources to help you connect your academics with your career goals.
Specializations
Accounting involves designing and managing financial systems that track, analyze and interpret an organization’s performance. Accountants provide the insights needed for planning, control and evaluation of financial operations. Fisher’s Accounting specialization equips students with a strong foundation in financial reporting, managerial accounting, auditing and taxation—preparing them for a range of careers in public accounting, corporate finance and beyond. Additionally, Fisher offers opportunities beyond the classroom to enrich your Accounting experience with student organizations such as the Accounting Association and the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA). Fisher also offers high-achieving students (GPA 3.5 or higher) the opportunity to pursue a combined BSBA/MAcc program, allowing you to earn both degrees simultaneously by applying select graduate courses toward both.
Learn more about Fisher's Accounting specialization below. Interested in CPA licensure in Ohio? Visit the Ohio Accountancy Board for exam and eligibility requirements.
- Careers in Accounting
- Accounting Specialization Curriculum (New GE)
- Accounting Specialization Curriculum (Legacy GE)
| Year | Autumn Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | ACCTMIS 2200* | ACCTMIS 2300* |
| 3 | ACCTMIS 3200 ACCTMIS 3300 | ACCTMIS 3201 ACCTMIS 3400 |
| 4 | ACCTMIS 3600 ACCTMIS 4200 | ACCTMIS 4500 ACCTMIS Elective (3 hours) |
| Year | Autumn Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | ACCTMIS 2200* | |
| 3 | ACCTMIS 2300* | ACCTMIS 3200 ACCTMIS 3300 |
| ACCTMIS 3201 ACCTMIS 3600 ACCTMIS 3400 | ACCTMIS 4200 ACCTMIS Elective (3 hours) |
*Accounting specialization students must earn a C- or greater
Aviation Management focuses on the business operations of the aviation industry, preparing students for roles at airlines, airports and aviation-related organizations. Fisher’s Aviation Management specialization, offered in collaboration with Ohio State’s Center for Aviation Studies, provides a strong foundation in airport management, airline operations, aviation safety and regulatory issues—equipping students with the skills needed to succeed in this dynamic field. Students benefit from industry partnerships and hands-on learning experiences with leading aviation companies. Beyond the classroom, students can enhance their education through involvement in aviation-focused student organizations such as the Flight Team at The Ohio State University and Women in Aviation International.
Learn more about Fisher's Aviation Management specialization below:
- Careers in Aviation Management
- Aviation Management Specialization Sheet (New GE)
- Aviation Management Specialization Sheet (Legacy GE)
| Year | Autumn | Spring |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aviation 2000 | Aviation 2150 |
| 2 | Aviation 2200 | Aviation 3000 |
| 3 | Aviation 3200 | Aviation 3600 |
| 4 | Aviation 4000 (Autumn only) | Aviation 5000 (Spring only) |
Business Management is offered through Ohio State’s Lima, Mansfield, Marion and Newark campuses and provides students with a flexible, high-quality business education. Courses are designed to mirror the rigor and content of those delivered on the Columbus campus, with a combination of in-person and online instruction to meet regional campus needs. Students completing the Business Management curriculum receive the same Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) degree awarded through Fisher College of Business.
Regional campus students may choose to specialize in a specific area of business; however, doing so may require completion of some coursework on the Columbus campus. For curriculum details, please refer to the appropriate advising sheet based on your start term:
- Business Management Curriculum Sheet (New GE) - Ending Summer 2025
- Business Management Curriculum Sheet (New GE) - Starting in Autumn 2025
- Business Management Curriculum Sheet (Legacy GE)
Students at Ohio State’s regional campuses can also enhance their business acumen by pursuing the undergraduate business minor, available at all four locations. The minor complements a variety of majors and helps students build versatile, career-ready skills.
Economics explores how individuals, businesses and governments make decisions and interact within complex systems. Economists use theories and data to analyze trends, understand behavior and forecast the impact of policies and market changes. Fisher’s Economics specialization provides a strong foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics and economic theory—preparing students for careers in business, government, research and consulting. Beyond the classroom, students can get involved in organizations such as the Undergraduate Economics Society and the Big Data and Analytics Association to deepen their experience and connect with peers who share similar interests.
Learn more about Fisher's Economics specialization below:
- Careers in Economics
- Economics Specialization Sheet (New GE)
- Economics Specialization Sheet (Legacy GE)
| Year | Autumn Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Econ 2001.01, 2001.02, or 2001.03H | Econ 2002.01. 2002.02, or 2002.03H |
| 3 | Econ 4001.01, 4001.02, or 4001.03 | Econ 4002.01, 4002.02, or 4002.03 |
| 4 | Econ 4XXX or 5XXX Econ 4XXX or 5XXX | Econ 4XXX or 5XXX Econ 4XXX or 5XXX |
| Year | Autumn Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Econ 2001.01, 2001.02, or 2001.03H | Econ 2002.01. 2002.02, or 2002.03H |
| 3 | ||
| 4 | Econ 4001.01, 4001.02, or 4001.03 Econ 4XXX or 5XXX | Econ 4002.01, 4002.02, or 4002.03 Econ 4XXX or 5XXX |
Finance is the study of how individuals and organizations manage resources, assess risk and make strategic decisions to create value over time. Fisher’s Finance specialization builds a strong foundation in corporate finance, investment management, financial markets and risk analysis—preparing students for careers in banking, consulting, asset management and corporate finance. Students also have the opportunity to explore certification paths such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation. Beyond the classroom, students can enhance their experience by getting involved in organizations like Common Cents Investment Group, Buckeye Capital Investors, the Undergraduate Finance Association and the Fisher Futures Program.
Learn more about Fisher's Finance specialization below:
| Year | Autumn Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | BUSFIN 3220* | BUSFIN 4211 BUSFIN 4221 |
| 4 | BUSFIN Advanced Course (3 hours) BUSFIN 4201 BUSFIN 4250 | BUSFIN Elective (9 hours) |
| Year | Autumn Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | BUSFIN 3220* | |
| 4 | BUSFIN 4211 BUSFIN 4221 BUSFIN 4201 BUSFIN 4250 | BUSFIN Advanced Course (3 hours) BUSFIN Elective (9 hours)
|
* Finance specialization students must earn a C- or greater
Human Resources focuses on managing the people side of organizations to support performance, growth and employee well-being. HR professionals play a key role in areas such as recruitment, compensation and benefits, employee relations, training and compliance. Fisher’s Human Resources specialization provides a strong foundation in organizational behavior, employment law, talent management and strategic HR practices—preparing students for careers in corporate HR departments, consulting firms and nonprofit organizations. Beyond the classroom, students can deepen their experience by joining student organizations such as the Human Resources Association.
Learn more about Fisher's Human Resources specialization below:
- Careers in Human Resources
- Human Resources Specialization Sheet (New GE)
- Human Resources Specialization Sheet (Legacy GE)
| Year | Autumn Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | BUSMHR 3200* | BUSMHR 4320 BUSMHR 4323 |
| 4 | BUSMHR 4322 BUSMHR 4326 BUSMHR 4330 | BUSMHR 4324 BUSMHR Elective (3 hours) |
| Year | Autumn Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | BUSMHR 3200* | |
| 4 | BUSMHR 4323 BUSMHR 4322 BUSMHR 4326 BUSMHR 4330 | BUSMHR 4320 BUSMHR 4324 BUSMHR Elective (3 hours) |
*Human Resources specialization students must earn a C- or greater
Information Systems focuses on applying technology to improve business operations, decision making and overall organizational effectiveness. Professionals in this field design, implement and manage systems that support functions across every area of business. Fisher’s Information Systems specialization provides a strong foundation in data management, systems analysis, IT strategy and business analytics—preparing students for careers in consulting, technology services and corporate IT departments. Beyond the classroom, students can further their experience through involvement in student organizations such as the Information Systems Association.
Learn more about Fisher's Information Systems specialization below:
- Careers in Information Systems
- Info Systems Specialization Sheet (New GE)
- Info Systems Specialization Sheet (Since Au 2022 with Legacy GE)
- Info Systems Specialization Sheet (Before Au 2022 with Legacy GE)
** If you've completed CSE 2133, you are on the Before AU 2022 with Legacy GE curriculum. If you have not, you are on the Since AU 2022 with Legacy GE curriculum.
| Year | Autumn | Spring |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | CSE 1223 | CSE 2123 Math 2366 (Spring only) |
| 3 | CSE 3241 | ACCTMIS 3620 |
| 4 | CSE 3232 ACCTMIS elective (3 credits) | ACCTMIS 4630 ACCTMIS elective (3 credits) |
| Year | Autumn | Spring |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | CSE 1223 | CSE 2123 MATH 2366 (Spring only) |
| 4 | CSE 3241 ACCTMIS elective (3 credits) ACCTMIS 3620 | CSE 3232 ACCTMIS 4630 ACCTMIS elective (3 credits) |
International Business prepares students to navigate the complexities of a global economy by understanding how businesses operate across borders and cultures. This specialization provides insight into international trade, cross-cultural management, global supply chains and economic environments around the world. Fisher’s International Business specialization equips students with the knowledge and skills needed for careers in multinational corporations, government agencies and international nonprofits. Beyond the classroom, students can enhance their global perspective through involvement in student organizations such as the International Business Club.
Careers:
- Careers in International Business
- International Business Specialization Sheet (New GE)
- International Business Specialization Sheet (Legacy GE)
| Year | Autumn Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | BUSMHR 2000* | |
| 3 | BUSMHR 3000 | BUSMHR 4020 Complete International experience |
| 4 | IB elective (3 credits) | IB electives (6 credits) |
| Year | Autumn Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | BUSMHR 2000* Complete International Experience | |
| 4 | BUSMHR 3000 IB elective (3 credits) | BUSMR 4020 IB electives (6 credits) |
*International Business specialization students must earn a C- or greater
International Experience Policy: Students must complete an international experience as part of the international business specialization.
This must be an educational international experience, such as a study abroad, internship or professional experience abroad. Any program offered through Fisher’s Office of Global Business is accepted. For any other experience, please work with an academic advisor to ensure that the planned experience is meeting the below requirements:
- It is educational in nature. In most cases, an eligible experience would include academic course credit.
- The experience lasts at least one week.
- The experience takes place during your time as a college student (previous high school experience will not be accepted).
In general, vacation travel or mission trips would not be accepted to meet this requirement. Questions? Please contact an academic advisor.
Logistics Management focuses on the efficient movement of goods and materials from production to consumption. This specialization covers key areas such as transportation, inventory planning, warehousing, purchasing and customer service. Fisher’s Logistics Management specialization provides students with a strong foundation in supply chain operations and strategy—preparing them for careers in manufacturing, retail, distribution and logistics consulting. Beyond the classroom, students can enhance their experience through involvement in student organizations such as The Logistics Association.
Learn more about Fisher's Logistics Management specialization below:
- Careers in Logistics Management
- Logistics Specialization Sheet (New GE)
- Logistics Specialization Sheet (Legacy GE)
| Year | Autumn Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | BUSML 3380* | BUSML 4380 BUSML 4381 BUSML 4383 |
| 4 | BUSML 4382 BUSML Elective (3 hours) | BUSML Elective (3 hours) |
| Year | Autumn Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | BUSML 3380* | BUSML 4380 BUSML 4381 BUSML 4382 BUSML 4383 BUSML Electives (6 hours) |
*Logistics Management specialization students must earn a C- or greater
Marketing focuses on creating, communicating and delivering value to customers through the development and promotion of products, services and experiences. It plays a critical role in generating revenue and shaping how organizations connect with their audiences. Fisher’s Marketing specialization provides a strong foundation in consumer behavior, marketing strategy, branding and digital marketing—preparing students for careers in advertising, product management, sales and market research. Beyond the classroom, students can build their skills and network by joining student organizations such as the American Marketing Association.
Learn more about Fisher's Marketing specialization below:
- Careers in Marketing
- Marketing Specialization Sheet (New GE)
- Marketing Specialization Sheet (Legacy GE)
| Year | Autumn Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | BUSML 3250* | BUSML 4201 BUSML 4202 |
| 4 | BUSML 4203 BUSML 4204 | Marketing Elective (6 hours) |
| Year | Autumn Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | BUSML 3250* | |
| 4 | BUSML 4201 BUSML 4202 | BUSML 4203 Marketing Elective (6 hours) |
*Marketing specialization students must earn a C- or greater
Operations Management focuses on the processes that transform resources into goods and services, playing a critical role in organizational efficiency and effectiveness. This specialization explores how businesses manage inputs like labor, materials and information to deliver high-quality outputs while optimizing productivity. Fisher’s Operations Management specialization provides a strong foundation in process analysis, quality management, supply chain operations and decision-making tools—preparing students for careers in manufacturing, consulting and service industries. Beyond the classroom, students can expand their experience by joining organizations such as the Buckeye Operations Management Society (BOMS) and the Purchasing and Supply Management Association.
Students majoring in Operations Management may choose from one of two tracks: Purchasing or Operations. Please see the advising sheets below for each track. Students will need to declare which track they intend to pursue by contacting an Academic Advisor.
Learn more about Fisher's Operations Management specialization below:
- Careers in Operations Management
- Operations Management Specialization Sheet (New GE)
- Operations Management Specialization Sheet (Legacy GE)
- Operations Management- Purchasing Track Specialization Sheet (New GE)
| Year | Autumn Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | BUSOBA 3230* | BUSOBA 4250 BUSOBA 4232 |
| 4 | BUSOBA 4239 | Operations electives (6 credits) |
| Year | Autumn Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | BUSOBA 3230* | Operations electives (6 credits) BUSOBA 4250 BUSOBA 4239 BUSOBA 4232 |
| Year | Autumn Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | BUSOBA 3230* | |
| 4 | BUSOBA 4261 BUSOBA 4262 BUSOBA 4263 | BUSOBA 4232 Operations electives (3 credits) |
*Operations Management students in either track must earn a C- or greater.
Real Estate focuses on the development, management and exchange of residential and commercial properties, as well as the financial and legal frameworks that support these activities. Students in this specialization explore topics such as market analysis, property valuation, zoning, urban planning and investment strategy. Fisher’s Real Estate specialization provides a strong foundation for careers in real estate development, brokerage, finance and property management. Students interested in pursuing Ohio Real Estate licensure can visit the Ohio Real Estate Licensing website for information on guidelines and requirements. Beyond the classroom, students can build experience and professional connections through involvement in the Fisher Real Estate Society.
Learn more about Fisher's Real Estate specialization below:
- Careers in Real Estate
- Real Estate Specialization Sheet (New GE)
- Real Estate Specialization Sheet (Legacy GE)
| Year | Autumn Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | BUSFIN 3220* | BUSFIN 3400 BUSFIN 4410 |
| 4 | BUSFIN Elective (3 hours) | BUSFIN 4411 BUSFIN 4412 Real Estate Option Course (3 hours) |
| Year | Autumn Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | BUSFIN 3220* BUSFIN 3400 | |
| 4 | BUSFIN Elective (3 hours) | BUSFIN 4410 BUSFIN 4411 BUSFIN 4412 Real Estate Option Course (3 hours) |
*Real Estate specialization students must earn a C- or greater
The Special Area Specialization (SAS) is designed for students with well-defined academic and career interests that are not represented by Fisher’s 11 existing BSBA specializations. This option allows highly motivated students to create a customized, interdisciplinary plan of study in consultation with faculty and academic advisors. The SAS encourages intellectual curiosity and academic exploration across departments and disciplines at Ohio State.
To pursue a Special Area Specialization, students must:
- Conduct a thorough review of academic programs across Ohio State to confirm that the proposed area of study is not already available through another major or minor
- Consult with faculty to identify appropriate courses that provide depth and cohesion
- Meet with an academic advisor in the Fisher Undergraduate Programs and Advising Office to review application materials and requirements
- Submit a completed application, including:
- Student information, proposed title and faculty approval
- A rationale for the SAS and how it supports the student’s academic and career goals
- A list of 15–18 credit hours of proposed coursework
Students must have a 3.0 GPA and at least 30 credit hours completed at Ohio State to be eligible.
Thinking About Changing or Adding a Specialization?
To request a change to your current specialization, email your academic advisor by the deadlines below:
- Summer admission – January 31
- Autumn admission – June 1
- Spring admission – September 15
Eligibility Requirements:
- Minimum Ohio State GPA of 3.10
- At least 12 semester hours of letter-graded Ohio State credit (earned after high school graduation)
Admission is not guaranteed and varies by specialization. To stay on track for graduation, we recommend being admitted into your preferred specialization at least three semesters before graduating.
Have questions? Schedule an appointment with your academic advisor.
Pursuing a second specialization is an option, but it’s important to understand the guidelines:
- Only one specialization is required to earn the BSBA degree. A second is optional and not guaranteed.
- Completing a second specialization may extend your time to graduate.
- Enrollment in courses for a second specialization is not guaranteed.
- We recommend completing your first specialization before starting coursework for a second.
- Admission into some specializations is competitive and GPA requirements may vary by term.
- Specializations appear on your transcript, not your diploma.
To pursue a second specialization, submit a Change of Specialization request to your advisor (by the same deadlines listed above), and schedule an advising appointment to discuss your plan