UVa Course Catalog (Unofficial, Lou's List)
Catalog of Courses for the McIntire School of Commerce    
Class Schedules Index Course Catalogs Index Class Search Page
These pages present data mined from the University of Virginia's student information system (SIS). I hope that you will find them useful. — Lou Bloomfield, Department of Physics
Commerce General Business
CGBM 2110Accounting for Business (1.5)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course focuses on the basics of financial reporting, to include key vocabulary & concepts, emphasis on understanding direct impact of recording transactions on financial statements. Students will gain an understanding of how to read, interpret, & analyze the balance sheet, income statement, & statement of cash flows. Students will also be introduced to managerial decision making (fixed vs. variable costs).
Course was offered Fall 2024
CGBM 2210Digital Skills for the Workplace (1.5)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course helps students develop digital skills for the modern workplace. Through a combination of lecture, discussion, and hands-on instruction, students will learn about foundational and emerging information technologies, organizational value of information technology, management of organizational data and processes, data-driven decision making, business intelligence and analytics, ethical and social issues related to information technology.
Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024
CGBM 2310Marketing Principles: Goods, Services and Brands (1.5)
Offered
Spring 2025
This is an introductory course focusing on the "4Ps of marketing" from a marketing strategy perspective. It will encompass decisions regarding Product, Price, Promotion, and Place such that a firm's offerings meet a specific consumer need, demand, or want. This includes a strong consideration of consumer psychology and consumer behavior. This course will address the key questions a marketer must consider for its offerings to be successful.
Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024
CGBM 2710Making Financial Decisions (1.5)
Offered
Spring 2025
In this course, students will learn the fundamental building blocks of valuing streams of cash flows whether from a financial asset or investment project. Topics to be covered may include the time value of money, discounting, compounding, investment rules including estimating the net present value of a project, and the basics of capital budgeting.
Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024
CGBM 3559Topics for General Business Minor (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
New Course in Commerce, specifically designed for the General Business minor degree program.
Commerce
COMM 1100Understanding the World of Business (3)
A business course open to all non-commerce majors. Not appropriate for students who have taken COMM 1800. This course introduces the "language of business," knowledge & skills in the areas of strategy, finance, accounting, & marketing. Ideal for students who wish to complement their coursework in other majors. We will use lecture & current events to develop critical thinking, problem solving, & analytical skills to address emergent business issues.
COMM 1559New Course in Commerce (1 - 4)
New Course in Commerce
COMM 1800Foundations of Commerce (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
The primary objective of this course is to provide a foundational overview of business, including the themes of the history of business, business and society, and innovation. The course will enable students to gage interest in business and prepare students for business-related education, jobs, and careers. THIS COURSE IS A PREREQUISITE FOR THE MCINTIRE SCHOOL OF COMMERCE.
COMM 2000Business Skills in Today's Workplace (1)
Offered
Spring 2025
COMM 2000 is a one-credit CR/NC course for students considering a major in Commerce. The course provides an interactive learning environment, which simulates upper level commerce classes while also providing students with content and skills necessary for success in today's global business environment. A variety of presenters deliver weekly interactive and instructional sessions using case analysis, group work, and projects.
COMM 2010Introduction to Financial Accounting (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
The initial focus is on how economic events are measured, classified and recorded, then students explore accounting issues for key business operating areas. Financial statements are studied to understand their content and uses. Course is delivered in an online format with no scheduled class meetings; students engage with all course content online. Faculty and teaching assistant support is provided via face-to-face and online interactions.
COMM 2020Introduction to Management Accounting (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
A continuation of COMM 2010 that examines accounting's problem-solving contributions to management. Emphasizes planning, control, performance measurement, cost behavior, ethics, and information for special decisions. Prerequisite: COMM 2010.
COMM 2559New Course in Commerce (1 - 3)
This course provides the opportunity to offer new topics in the subject of Commerce.
COMM 2600Leadership Across the Disciplines (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
The purpose of this course is to develop your understanding of the keys to effective leadership across various contexts. The course will facilitate your learning by relating course content to real world situations and will include a number of guest speakers. Topics include leadership skills, values based leadership, building credibility, leader-follower relationships, managing groups, leading change, and the dark side of leadership.
COMM 2610StartUp (3)
Startup is a fourteen week course-plus-experience designed to provide students with not only the basic tools and vocabulary of new ventures, but also a sense of what it feels like to start, fund, and manage such ventures. The course, by was of in-class case discussions and mentored group projects, introduces students to a broad range of issues faced by founders and funders of both for-profit and non-profit ventures.
Course was offered Fall 2015, Spring 2015
COMM 2700Basic Finance for Real Estate (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course provides the fundamental concepts in finance that are required for further finance courses in the real estate minor. It introduces students to foundational concepts and attendant empirical analytical techniques in finance, including valuation, capital structure, and theories of the firm. Drawing on cases and examples from real estate and other asset classes, the course exposes students to the diversity of markets in which individuals and firms interact. This is the pre-requisite course for application to the Real Estate Minor.
Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022
COMM 2730Personal Finance (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
An introduction to personal finance, focusing on financial decision-making and financial wellbeing. Students will develop the knowledge and skills to analyze common financial situations and develop a financial plan. Topics include short-, intermediate-, and long-term planning; budgeting; taxes; credit; debt; insurance; stocks, bonds, and mutual funds; diversification; 401(k)s, IRAs, and HSAs. Prerequisite: Non-Commerce students, 4th Year.
COMM 3010Strategy and Systems (4)
Provides an overview of a business from both a strategic process perspective and as a system and introduces a broad conceptual framework. The remaining ICE sessions provide more specific concepts and techniques. A current business, as well as cases and lecture, is used to develop the framework. Topics include the transformation of business, the role of the general manager, systems thinking and process management, strategic thinking and information systems, global strategy and culture, organizational architecture, information architecture, and the value chain. Prerequisite: Third-year Commerce standing.
COMM 3020Behavioral Issues in Marketing and Management (4)
Studies the interaction of human behaviors both within the organization and within the business environment. Discusses personal effectiveness and interpersonal skills and introduces the marketing management process. Topics include individual differences, leadership, conflict resolution, group decision making, creating high-performance teams, globalization of markets and measuring markets, consumer markets and consumer behavior, developing communication strategies, organizational markets, organization buying behaviors, market segmentation, management of products and services, the use of the Internet and other promotion tools, and marketing decision systems. Prerequisite: Third-year Commerce standing.
COMM 3030Quantitative and Financial Analysis (4)
Covers basic analytical tools used in marketing and finance. Introduces a disciplined problem-solving process to structure, analyze, and solve business problems that is used extensively in case discussions. Topics include marketing research; exploratory data analysis, financial statement analysis, basic stock and bond valuation, pro forma statement analysis, cash budgeting, capital budgeting, regression analysis, and analyzing risk and return. Excel is used extensively throughout this session. Prerequisite: Third-year Commerce standing.
COMM 3040Strategic Value Creation (4.5)
Offered
Spring 2025
Provides an overview of corporate & global strategy, introducing frameworks for valuing companies, assessing the impact of strategic initiatives on firm value, & understanding corporate communication strategies & techniques. Topics include corporate governance, diversification, mergers & acquisitions, alliances, international market entries, DCF & relative valuation methods, corporate reputation management, investor & media relations.
COMM 3041Strategic Value Creation - Study Abroad (3)
Course develops student understanding of corporate strategy & governance, & explains why value maximization provides a coherent framework for the firm's merger & acquisition decisions.Course will develop student proficiency in using financial analytical techniques & consulting tools that can enhance firm performance. Course considers the organizational, cultural, & communication issues corporations face when making strategic valuation decisions. Prerequisite: Undergraduate Commerce Study Abroad students
COMM 3042Quantitative Analysis and Data Visualization-Study Abroad (1.5)
This course provides an overview of key tools necessary for making effective decisions. It includes a variety of topics that each emphasize the themes of quantitative analysis, data management, and data visualization. Course for Study Abroad students only.
COMM 3050Managerial Decision Making (4.5)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course provides an overview of key quantitative and qualitative tools necessary for making effective individual- and team-based decisions. It includes a variety of topics that each emphasize three themes central to managerial decision making: (1) Data Management and Data Visualization, (2) Quantitative Analysis, and (3) Perception and Judgment. .
COMM 3101Accounting and Cost Perspectives (1 - 3)
The purpose of this course is to refresh your understanding of financial and managerial accounting. Financial accounting is concerned with providing relevant financial information to various external users while Managerial Cost accounting deals with the concepts and methods used to provide information to an organization's internal users. Restricted to Ernst and Young YMP students
Course was offered Summer 2010
COMM 3110Intermediate Accounting I (3)
Intensive study of the generally accepted accounting principles for asset valuation, income measurement, and financial statement presentation for business organizations, and of the processes through which these principles evolve. Focuses on important areas in financial accounting, including accounting for leases, pensions, and income taxes. Prerequisite: COMM 2020 or instructor permission.
COMM 3111Financial Accounting Standards (3)
Financial Accounting Standards Prerequisite: Restricted to Ernst and Young YMP students
COMM 3115Intermediate Financial Accounting I and II (6)
Intensive study of generally accepted accounting principles for asset valuation, income measurement, and financial statement presentation for business organizations, and of the processes through which these principles evolve. Focuses on important areas in financial accounting, including accounting for leases, pensions, equities, and other financial instruments, asset impairment, long-term debt and income tax issues related to financial reporting. Restricted to Ernst and Young YMP students.
Course was offered Summer 2010
COMM 3120Intermediate Accounting II (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Continuation of COMM 3110, with emphasis on accounting for the equities of a firm's investors and creditors. Continues to focus on financial accounting issues including financial instruments, asset impairment and long-term debt. Prerequisite: COMM 3110.
COMM 3141Strategic Cost Management (2)
This course provides an overview of accounting for business decisions from a strategic and organizational perspective. It introduces a broad overview of cost behaviors, budgeting and performance evaluation, and considers management accounting in a changing environment. This course provides a foundation for financial decision-making and analysis topics covered in future courses.Prerequisite: Comm 2020. Restricted to Ernst and Young YMP students
Course was offered Summer 2010
COMM 3200Project and Product Management (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course will provide knowledge of product management in combination with project management skills, both of which are necessary for the management of the digital product innovation process end-to-end. Course consists of seminars on roles of the product & project manager, managing innovation, selecting projects, stakeholder mgmt, team mgmt, schedule & time mgmt, risk mgmt, & on leading changes. Workshops on digital innovation, agile & waterfall methods.
COMM 3220Data Management for Decision Making (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Provides an introduction to the management of database systems and how business intelligence can be used for competitive advantage. The course uses an applied, problem-based approach to teach students the fundamentals of relational systems including data models, database architectures, database manipulations (e.g., SQL), and BI tools. Prerequisite: Undergraduate Commerce or Instructor Permission
COMM 3230Managing Innovation (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Explores product, service, business model, and process innovation in existing companies with a focus on preparing students to participate in, lead, and advise innovation teams to increase the likelihood of a desired corporate outcome. Course format includes case studies, projects, and the most recent academic thinking on topics like organizational design, ethics in innovation, resources allocation, culture development, & "managing clever people."
COMM 3310Fundamentals of Marketing (3)
Study of the business and behavioral activities involved in marketing goods and services in both profit and not-for-profit enterprises. Examines and analyzes marketing activities from the planning stage to the consumption stage. Emphasizes concepts that facilitate an understanding of client behavior, marketing practices, environmental factors, ethical issues, and global relationships in marketing. Prerequisite: ECON 2010, 2020.
Course was offered Fall 2010
COMM 3330Marketing Research & Analytic Techniques (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
The basic objective of this course is to develop a general understanding of research methodology as a prerequisite to the intelligent use of research results in marketing management. Thus, the course is designed to provide an introductory background that enables the student to evaluate the potential value of proposed research and to assess the relevance, reliability, and validity of existing research. This research-evaluation ability requires knowledge of the language and techniques of marketing research, including research designs, data collection instruments, sample designs, and varieties of data analysis. Prerequisite: Second-semester, third-year Commerce standing or permission of instructor.
COMM 3410Commercial Law I (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Introduces the American legal system, emphasizing contracts, torts, agency, corporations, and partnerships. May be taken prior to enrollment in the McIntire School.
COMM 3420Commercial Law II (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Further introduces the American legal system, emphasizing debtor-creditor law, bankruptcy, product liability, and sale of goods, property, and commercial paper. Prerequisite: COMM 3410.
COMM 3500Integrated Core Experience (ICE) (12)
Placeholder for fall core courses. COMM 3010 (4 cr.) provides an overview of a business from strategic process perspective and as a system. COMM 3020 (4 cr.) studies the interaction of human behaviors, within the organization and the business environment. COMM 3030 (4 cr.) covers basic analytical tools used in marketing and finance, and introduces a disciplined problem-solving process to structure, analyze, and solve business problems.
COMM 3559New Course in Commerce (1 - 3)
New Course in Commerce
COMM 3570Topics in Finance (3)
A seminar on issues drawing current attention in the finance literature and affecting non-financial business firms, financial institutions, or investment management.
Course was offered Fall 2024
COMM 3600Principles and Practice in Arts Administration (3)
Principles and Practice in Arts Administration
COMM 3610Learning to Lead (3)
Learning to Lead
COMM 3700Markets and Investing (3)
Students in this course will acquire a working knowledge about markets and investing that any educated person should have in order to be a good citizen. The course is an introduction to what financial markets are and how they function, all within a broader social context. While the course will deal concretely with topics in economics, statistics, psychology and finance, no prior knowledge of any of those topics is required.
Course was offered Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021
COMM 3720Intermediate Corporate Finance (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
A rigorous introduction to the full field of finance. Students should gain an appreciation of the role of financial markets and institutions in our economy as well as an introduction to the responsibilities, concerns, and methods of analysis employed by corporate financial managers. We focus on the two fundamental aspects of financial decision-making: time value and risk (modern portfolio theory, the capital asset pricing model, and alternatives). The concepts of time value and risk are used to value the two basic financial assets, bonds and stocks, as well as real assets, investment projects, and companies. In addition, the course introduces derivative securities (options, futures) and discusses their application in a wide variety of settings (real options, contingent claims valuation of equity). The course also covers the theory and practice of capital structure decisions (Modigliani and Miller, taxes, bankruptcy costs, asymmetric information, agency) and dividend decisions. The course will include a thorough discussion of market efficiency and an introduction to the field of behavioral finance. A unifying theme of the course is how no-arbitrage conditions and the law of one price can be used to value most financial assets. The emphasis in this course (both in and out of class) will be on problem solving. Prerequisite: COMM 3010, 3020, and 3030.
COMM 3721Quantitative Finance (1.5)
Half the course is focused on fundamental programming concepts using Visual Basic (VBA) applied to financial models. The other half of the course covers option basics, pricing using both the Black-Scholes and binomial models, basic linear algebra concepts (matrices, inversion, solving systems of linear equations), derivative valuation using state prices and risk-neutral probabilities.
COMM 3790Venture Capital & Emerging Firms (3)
The course provides an overview of venture capital and it's role/importance in financing early-stage companies. Students will utilize case studies, real world exercises, readings and outside speakers to gain both a macro (i.e., industry level) and a micro (i.e., professional practice) view into how venture capitalists search for, invest in, advise, and help scale 'the next big thing.'
COMM 3791Financing New Ventures (3)
The course will examine the challenges, processes, and sources of financing for new ventures in the focused and engaging format of the January Term. Primarily from perspective of the entrepreneur or business owners through both empirical field research and analyses. It will explore the fit and viability of a venture's maturity. The course will emphasize the integration of these financial concepts with entrepreneurial strategy.
Course was offered January 2010
COMM 3800Business, Government, and Society (3)
Reviews the ways in which business and government, particularly at the federal level, are related to each other and to society as a whole. Prerequisite: ECON 2010, 2020.
COMM 3810Business Ethics (3)
Examines major moral issues in contemporary business through the study and application of foundational concepts from philosophical ethics. Emphasizes directed discussion of case studies and readings from business and non-business literature.
COMM 3828Global Commerce in Context (3)
Regionally focused elective (beyond the Comm 3050 requirement) while studying abroad with one of McIntire's global academic partners.
COMM 3845Foundations of International Business (3)
An introduction to the field of international business through an examination of the practice and theory of international business, focusing on managerial, operational, strategic, ethical, and environmental factors. The student develops an understanding of global trade theory and the various forms of global and regional economic integration; examines the major functions of managing an international business; becomes familiar with the instruments, procedures, and processes of international business; ascertains the modes of international market entry and foreign direct investment; generates an appreciation of the importance of culture on international business; and evaluates ethical issues in international business. Prerequisite: Non-Commerce students.
COMM 3880Global Sustainability (3)
This interdisciplinary course will explore the complex choices in environmental policy and management by examining and integrating three relevant perspectives: environmental science, ethics and economics. Environmental science provides a basic understanding of the impacts of human activities on the environment. Economic analysis focuses on the relevant benefits and costs. Ethics addresses the conflicts of values involved in decisions about the environment. The balancing of environmental and economic costs and benefits, coupled with human beliefs about what is 'right' or 'wrong,' is at the heart of the environmental decision-making process. The process is complex because it involves a diverse set of stakeholders with differing perspectives and objectives. A case study approach will be used to examine the wide range of scientific, historical, cultural, ethical and legal dimensions of environmental issues.
COMM 4150Introductory Auditing (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Includes the planning, processes (gathering evidence) & judgments required to render an opinion on an entity's internal controls and financial statements. Deals with evidence theory, risk identification & professional judgment. Audit methodology is examined through a study of auditing standards & the concepts & procedures developed to implement those standards. Other topics include data analytics, auditor independence,materiality & audit reports.
COMM 4193GCI: Special Topics in International Accounting in Ireland (3)
The role of accounting in international contexts will be explored, with the objective to help students become familiar with regulatory, cultural and business environment issues that affect and are affected by accounting and the accounting profession.Specific topics will vary from semester to semester, but the course will likely include an international travel component and interactions with many international parties.
Course was offered Spring 2014
COMM 4210Managerial View of AI (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course aims to provide students with a practical, managerial perspective on Artificial Intelligence. It covers key factors for the successful development, deployment, and management of generative AI, machine learning, and algorithmic approaches to automated decision-making. Students will better understand the societal impacts of AI and approaches to balance AI risks and benefits in organizations.
COMM 4221Data Exploration and Visualization with R (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course covers the fundamentals of data wrangling, exploration, and visualization for business decision making. In this course, we will learn techniques that will allow us to clearly, efficiently, and effectively communicate information and analyses through visual representations.
COMM 4230Fintech: Information Technology in Finance (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Comm 4230 covers practical uses of information technology in financial settings. You will learn by doing: you will develop technologies that manage an online portfolio of stock and options, and will design and code financial strategies to compete in the yearly McIntire Hedge Tournament. Through these activities you will gain a hands-on understanding of SQL, advanced Excel, and VBA/macros. More at http://webs.comm.virginia.edu/Grazioli/Comm4230.
COMM 4240Electronic Commerce and Web Analytics (4.5)
This course provides an overview of the concepts, technologies, and tools necessary for designing and implementing information systems that support electronic commerce and online analytics initiatives; including web development, web and social media analytics, online marketing tactics, Internet fraud detection, online security, and emerging Web 2.0 technologies. Prerequisite: Fourth-year Commerce standing or instructor permission.
COMM 4250Digital Innovation (1.5 - 3)
Digital innovation is transforming business. This course covers a portfolio of the most important and current emerging technologies: AI, machine learning, platforms, blockchain, design thinking, drones, internet of things, cloud, and more. We discuss contemporary case studies and learn practical tools for analyzing digital innovation that will help you succeed at your next job or internship. More on http://webs.comm.virginia.edu/Grazioli/.
COMM 4251Inventing the Future (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Tech's Role in Business and Society. Students will focus on current topics in the fast-growing technology industry including tech business models, Silicon Valley and global industry culture, and public policy. Sessions are discussion-driven, include engagement with executives, and emphasize how future leaders in the tech industry can be a catalyst for change.
COMM 4252Open Source Innovation (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
We will study the role of open source innovation through case studies and discussions that examine the potential of open source innovations to address long-standing societal problems, increase resilience to climate change impact, and foster new economic models. Students will leverage open source in team projects and work closely with identified organizations to gain experience in the application of open source innovation.
COMM 4261Big Data (1.5)
This course provides an overview of the characteristics of big data and introduces state-of-the-art NoSQL technologies for managing operational and analytical data. Students will learn techniques (e.g., Hadoop, columnar database, and python) for big data management, and design data architectures for big data-enabled applications, including search engines, recommender systems, and artificial intelligence.
COMM 4262Business System Dynamics (1.5)
Managers and consultants often must diagnose complex business problems using a range of critical thinking skills to understand how an organizations performance is related to structural choices and operating conditions. Business Systems Dynamics introduces students to simulation analysis, a powerful tool for building and testing models of organizations and their interactions with customers, competitors, and suppliers.
Course was offered Spring 2016
COMM 4263Cybersecurity as a Business Risk (3)
This course provides a manager's view of cybersecurity and privacy that contains an overview of methods for managing and mitigating cybersecurity risk in organizations. Further, this course includes an emphasis on applying analytics to understand cybersecurity threats. The course will also explore the role of privacy in society.
COMM 4293GCI: IT Project Practicum in Argentina (3)
In this class you will practice international IT consulting. Working with your team & with the help of faculty & translators, you will propose solutions to real-world challenges experienced by winemaking companies in Mendoza, Argentina. Winemaking is a global business that fuels worldwide exports. You & your team will analyze problems, identify solutions, & present recommendations to real clients. Http://webs.comm.virginia.edu/Grazioli/Comm4293/
COMM 4300Brand Management (3)
Brand management is the process of developing and nurturing a brand while leveraging strong brands across line extensions and categories. This course exposes students to these and other contemporary challenges facing product and brand managers as they launch new products, create and maintain brand equity, and manage their product lines. Prerequisite: Fourth-year Commerce standing or instructor permission.
Course was offered Spring 2012, Spring 2011, Spring 2010
COMM 4310Global Marketing (3)
Examines the concept of global marketing and the institutions, literature, managerial processes, models and/or frameworks, strategies, tactics, and theories related to marketing in the global arena. The impact of international economics, culture, and nationalistic governmental policies, global and regional trade alliances, and other multilateral entities on trade patterns and marketing decision-making in global firms are considered. Prerequisite: Fourth-year Commerce standing or instructor permission.
COMM 4311Manufacturing in the Global Economy (3)
This course provides an understanding of the advanced manufacturing sector, the role of innovation in the economy and compares national industrial policy systems. The prevalence of complex product systems such as aircraft at the technological frontier will be explored. At the firm level case studies which will consider the globalization strategies of companies from the U.S., Brazil, Germany, and China. Prerequisite: 4th Year Commerce
COMM 4320Entertainment Marketing (3)
This course is designed to offer students important perspectives of Marketing Management for Entertainment Services. Entertainment services, encompassing motion pictures, television, broadcasting, publishing, music, sports, tourism, Internet, gaming, performing arts, and theme parks, are rapidly growing and taking a center stage in today's service-driven economy. As the leading U.S. export category, they generate $500 billion worldwide. Entertainment services share several unique features, such as highly uncertain demand, short lifecycles, experiential nature, and sequential distribution. These features require in-depth understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities in managing their new product introductions, pricing, media planning and promotion, and distribution. This course will merge real-world knowledge of how various entertainment services operate, conceptual framework of marketing strategies, and hands-on analytical tools that aid practical decision making. The course is suitable for students who intend to pursue a career in the media, entertainment, or more generally, service industries; and for those who simply wish to gain a better understanding of marketing management for entertainment service industries in general.
COMM 4330Negotiating for Value (3)
Introduces students to the subject of negotiation by exposing them to various activities of negotiations such as: general tactics, preparation, promoting relationships, managing tension, creating and claiming value, and closing a negotiation. Case studies, supplemented by readings, will be used liberally and role-play from time to time will be used to demonstrate actual negotiating situations, simple, complex, and spontaneous.
COMM 4340Priniciples of Advertising (3)
This is a course designed to give the student a working knowledge of advertising. The course is targeted to students who want to understand the inter-workings of an advertising agency but do not want to pursue advertising as a career. It will develop the tools of advertising to sell goods and services as well as brand and image. Students will be expected to gain knowledge of the issues facing the advertising agency and clients of today. The course will slant toward the advertising agency side of the agency/client partnership. The topic of creativity will be discussed; however students will not be required to design final ads or write final copy in any other than an occasional assignment to conceptually highlight and describe the direction of their ideas. Emphasis will be on the understanding of the business of advertising and planning the advertising campaign. The overriding theme will be to demonstrate how advertising fits into integrated marketing communications. Prerequisite: Fourth-year Commerce standing or instructor permission.
Course was offered Spring 2010
COMM 4350Customer Analytics & Brand Strategy (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This is a research oriented class that examines how firms can leverage customer analytics to successfully create, manage, and grow brands. The class provides marketing managers and operational business leaders with the analytical tools to develop and operationally execute brand strategies that enhance customer engagement and loyalty. Prerequisite: 4th Year Commerce
COMM 4351Marketing Analytics for Big Data (3)
This course will (1) introduce a variety of big marketing data, such as social network, text, image, voice, video, and location data; (2) introduce contemporary analytic tools, such as network analysis, natural language processing, and neural networks, to analyze these data; and (3) develop strategic insights and prepare students for coveted analytics careers. Some Python knowledge is preferred.
Course was offered Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022, Fall 2021
COMM 4360Independent Study in Marketing Data and Analyses (3)
This course will have a strong marketing research quantitative analysis component to it, and will involve examining data from the UVa Admission Office. The course will have the following deliverables: meet with the client; determine the information sought within the confines of their data; obtain the data and organize data; analyze the data; prepare a written report; give a verbal presentation of the findings to the client. Prerequisites: Completion of COMM 3330, 3030, and 3060; SQL training (preferred); 4th Year Commerce, instructor permission.
Course was offered Spring 2011
COMM 4370Digital Strategy & Analytics (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course examines how firms can integrate social media into their digital marketing strategy. We will focus on understanding the current social media landscape, building social media mktg strategies, & measuring their effectiveness using appropriate metrics. Students will conduct social media mktg projects to understand how to leverage social interactions that take place between companies and customers to create and/or enhance value.
COMM 4371Strategic Brand Consulting and Communications (3)
This course introduces students to the field of advertising and promotions and the role these play in the overall marketing program of an organization. The course covers the strategic aspects of marketing communications and the executional tactics used to carry out such strategic initiatives. Students work with a real client on a case study provided by the American Advertising Federation's (AAF) National Student Advertising Competition (NSAC).
COMM 4372Integrated Communications & Digital Campaigns (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course exposes students to the best practics of an Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) campaign and has them create their own campaign for the National Student Advertising Competition's (NSAC) national client. Students are also exposed to the strategic media planning process which is an important part of any IMC plan.
COMM 4373Strategic Brand Consulting & Communications - Media Lab (1.5)
This course introduces students to the software used by creative personnel within an advertising agency, such as Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator, to name a few.
COMM 4374Integrated Communications & Digital Campaigns - Media Lab (1.5)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course focuses on the techniques and database used by media agencies to develop a media plan in a rapidly changing and increasingly digital media landscape. The course also builds upon and utilizes the software skills learned in Comm 4373.
COMM 4375The Business of Media (3)
Tech-driven disruption in the Media Industry (TV, Film, Music, Advertising, Digital, etc.) has repeatedly transformed its business models and affected every management discipline. This course analyzes these media sectors and the nature of these disruptions, emphasizing corporate strategy, corporate structure, comparative business models, content and marketing changes, consumer engagement and strategies for adapting to today's digital revolution.
COMM 4380Consumer Behavior and Marketing Strategy (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course focuses on how consumers meet needs through the evaluation, acquisition, and use of goods and services. Covers major influences on the consumption process, including psychological, situational, and socio-cultural factors. Specific topics include perception, attitudes, values, consumer decision-making, and customer satisfaction, among others. The marketing implications of understanding the consumer are emphasized, but social factors are also considered. Prerequisite: Fourth-year Commerce standing or instructor permission.
COMM 4381Developing and Managing Innovative New Products (3)
Developing innovative products is the lifeblood of the firm, yet many product introductions fail due to improper design, unrealistic expectations or a failure to understand the consumer. This course will dissect the new product development process, including creative ideation, concept testing, prototyping, and entry strategies. Concepts such as open source innovation, disruptive technologies, and the diffusion of innovations are also considered.
Course was offered Spring 2020, Spring 2019
COMM 4393GCI: Consumers and Markets in India (3)
Seminar on issues currently drawing attention in the marketing literature and business community that affect marketing management. Prerequisite: Fourth-year Commerce standing or instructor permission.
COMM 4394GCI: Market Insights in China - Part I (0)
A Global Commerce Immersion course that blends relevant classroom discussions, executive presentations, and company visits to explore business, economics, culture, and context in China.
Course was offered Spring 2015, Spring 2014
COMM 4395GCI: Market Insights in China - Part II (4)
This course blends relevant classroom discussions, executive presentations, company visits, & cultural experiences to explore business & culture in China. The 4-credit course begins in Charlottesville in spring semester with an exploration of key macro issues in China (Comm 4394) & then the class travels to several cities in China to meet with government officials & business leaders. Students must complete Comm 4394 before enrolling in Comm 4395. Prerequisite: COMM 4394
COMM 4441Tax Factors in Business Decisions (3)
Tax Factors in Business Decisions Prerequisite: Restricted to Ernst and Young YMP students
COMM 4450Federal Taxation (3)
Analyzes the federal income tax law and its application to business, investment, and personal transactions. Prerequisite: COMM 2020 or Instructor Permission.
COMM 4510Topics in Accounting (3)
Courses taught in the Accounting area.
COMM 4519Global Commerce Immersion: Topics in Accounting (3)
Global Commerce courses that count in the Accounting concentration.
COMM 4520Topics in Information Technology (1 - 3)
Presents the opportunity to examine new and emerging IT topics or study a particular IT related area in greater depth than is covered in other courses. Prerequisite: 4th Year Commerce or instructor permission
COMM 4522Topics in Business Analytics (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Topics in business analytics leverages the vast data resources available today to identify trends and patterns critical to enhancing business performance. This course introduces students to contemporary business analytics methods, including predictive and descriptive analytics techniques, and demonstrates how to apply analytics to real-world business decisions.
COMM 4529Global Commerce Immersion: Topics in Information Technology (3)
Global Commerce courses that count in the Information Technology concentration.
Course was offered Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Spring 2018
COMM 4535Topics in Marketing (3)
Courses taught in the Marketing area. Prerequisite: 4th Year Commerce
COMM 4539Global Commerce Immersion: Topics in Marketing (3)
Global Commerce courses that count in the Marketing concentration.
Course was offered Spring 2019, Spring 2018
COMM 4559New Course in Commerce (1 - 4)
This course provides the opportunity to offer new topics in the subject of Commerce.
COMM 4560Topics in Management (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Courses taught in the Management area. Prerequisite: 4th Year Commerce
Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2014
COMM 4562Topics in Organizational Behavior (3)
Courses focusing on specific topics in organizational behavior - for example, Managing and Leading, or Managing the Knowledge-Based Organization. Prerequisite: Fourth-year Commerce standing or instructor permission.
Course was offered Fall 2009
COMM 4569Global Commerce Immersion: Topics in Management (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Global Commerce courses that count in the Management concentration.
Course was offered Spring 2016
COMM 4570Topics in Finance (3)
A seminar on issues drawing current attention in the finance literature and affecting non-financial business firms, financial institutions or investment management. Prerequisite: Fourth-year Commerce standing and instructor permission.
Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2015, Spring 2014
COMM 4579Global Commerce Immersion: Topics in Finance (3)
Global Commerce courses that count in the Finance concentration.
Course was offered January 2023
COMM 4589Global Commerce Immersion: General Topics (3)
Global Commerce courses that do not count in any concentration.
Course was offered Spring 2018
COMM 4602Critical Thinking on Business Issues (3)
This seminar is designed to encourage students to think deeply about complex problems-a skill highly valued in the marketplace. Weekly discussions tackle topics such as low-wage workers, ignored costs of glob'zn, consumerism, impact of tech on thinking, race relations, tech & privacy, women's images, welfare reform and immigration policy. The virtual seminar & blog will consist of students enrolled at UVa, JMU and GMU, via Cisco Telepresence.
COMM 4620Strategic Leadership (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course seeks to develop students' ability to respond to complex leadership challenges in multiple contexts. Through experiential learning, students will be better prepared to influence the strategic direction of their organizations. Topics include understanding the role organizational leaders, managing firm culture, guiding firm change, utilizing power and influence, balancing stakeholder expectations, and managing organizational threats.
COMM 4621Measure, Manage, & Motivate (3)
This course focuses on the role of intrinsic and extrinsic rewards in work motivation and strategy implementation. Assignments and tasks focus on helping you understand your own values and personality and on gaining insight into how firms design, structure, and align goals and rewards to achieve desired strategic outcomes.
COMM 4622The High Performing Organization (3)
Knowledge has become one of the most important resources in the economy and assets within organizations. In all but the most rote forms of manufacturing and service work, organizations better able to creat and share knowledge are better performers. However, managing a knowledge-based enterprise requires more than just a distributed technology. Effective leaders in knowledge-intensive work must think about their organizations differently.
COMM 4623Leading Change (3)
In this course, students will study and participate in personal and organizational change processes. The objectives include enhancing personal capabilities and understanding for navigating change in our lives and developing insight and leadership skills for coping with, diagnosing, and managing organization-wide change.
Course was offered Fall 2011, Fall 2010, Fall 2009
COMM 4624Advanced Strategy and Implementation (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course provides students with frameworks and skills to successfully implement successful strategies (e.g., set goals, create initiatives, measure performance, allocate resources). Students will explore common challenges that derail strategy and learn how to design systems and structures that support the organization¿s objectives. The second half of the semester will feature seminars and guest speakers addressing advanced topics in Strategic Management.
COMM 4640Advanced Managerial Communication (3)
Develops writing and speaking skills while increasing student understanding of how managers communicate with diverse audiences. Covers communication with the public, investors, and employees. Special topics will include media relations, communication ethics, and crisis communications. Students practice for communication events such as speaking at a press conference, briefing a small group, telling professional anecdotes, and preparing for a media interview.
COMM 4641Public Speaking & Persuasion (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
The course utilizes several active learning activities when considering classical rhetorical elements, audience analysis, speech organization, and strategies for improvement in the structure and delivery of extemporaneous and impromptu speeches. Students work with conceptual methods, observe exemplary models of good speech making, explore personal communication apprehension, and hone individual rhetorical style.
COMM 4642Business Communication for the Digital Age (3)
Participants will sharpen speaking & writing skills for professional situations. Students will learn strategies for structuring & delivering persuasive material for a variety of target audiences. Topics will include communication challenges in a global workplace, emerging communication technologies, industry specific communications, & integrated communication strategies across multiple mediums, including Facebook & Twitter.
COMM 4643Advanced Business Speaking (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
COMM 4643 increases students' comfort with public speaking. In a safe environment students work to cultivate individual speaking styles by engaging in daily public speaking. Students deliver a wide variety of speeches, engage in activities designed to refine speaking styles, receive weekly feedback, and review their own recorded speeches. The most successful students participate fully, have a sense of fun, and help each other to improve.
COMM 4644Persuasion & Influence (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Your effectiveness as a leader depends on your ability to influence and persuade others. From the ancient art of rhetoric to cutting-edge social science, this course asks you to implement time-tested communication techniques to persuade colleagues at every level, even when you lack formal authority. With power comes responsibility, and so you also will consider the ethics of persuasion and how to influence interpersonal and team dynamics positively.
COMM 4650Business, Politics & Culture in the European Union (3)
This class looks at the origins, development, and current institutions of the European Union. The focus is on the environment in which business operates, cultural differences, and the emerging issues of regulation. The European Union is the most developed of the regional trading groups but has always had a somewhat different purpose. Antitrust, banking regulation, and response to economic crisis are some of the major topics considered.
COMM 4660Management Consulting and Advisory Services (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course is designed to provide a broad overview of management consulting and other related advisory services professions and help students develop skills that are broadly applicable in these professions as well as in other fields (business, politics, not-for-profits, etc). Students will gain experience in key skills including problem identification and structuring, data collection, problem solving, client presentations and client management.
COMM 4670Decision Making & Negotiations (3)
This course explores theories & research on heristics & biases in human inference, decision making, & negotiation strategy. More generally, the course covers experimental & theoretical work regarding the challenges that psychology offers to the rationalist expected utility model. A wide range of topics will aim to provide a critical overview of behavioral decision making, negotiation, & conflict resolution.
Course was offered Spring 2015
COMM 4680Entrepreneurship (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Explores the entrepreneurship process as well as basic concepts and analytical tools that facilitate new-venture success with a focus on a start-up's ability to make money and its ability to generate attractive financial and personal returns for the entrepreneur compared to alternative career options. Examines various considerations for generating, screening, and evaluating new venture ideas, creating and presenting compelling business plans, acquiring early-stage funding and other required resources, as well as measuring value. Prerequisite: Fourth-year Commerce standing or instructor permission.
COMM 4681Entrepreneurship Track Capstone (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
In the capstone course, approximately five teams comprising five students each attempt to commercialize business concepts (of their design and with faculty approval) through the "pre-money" stage of development. The course culminates in a New Venture Competition, the winners of which, as judged by Entrepreneurship Track professors and program donors, will receive modest seed money to continue exploration of their business concept. Prerequisites: Open only to students in the Entrepreneurship Track.
COMM 4690Global Management (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Explores the strong influence of culture on business practices and cultivates skills for developing and implementing strategies in multicultural environments. Topics include culture and its implications, interpersonal effectiveness, organizational systems, political and economic environments, and corporate social responsibility. Prerequisite: Fourth-year Commerce standing or instructor permission.
COMM 4693GCI: The Business of Saving Nature in Cuba (3)
Human activities are currently resulting in an unprecedented decline in the biological diversity of our planet. The conversion of natural lands for agriculture and urbanization, together with the alteration of wetlands and aquatic ecosystems, is resulting in the extinction of species that depend on these ecosystems as essential habitat. Recognition of the impacts of human activity on biological diversity has led to a growing international environmental movement to promote the preservation of natural ecosystems. The preservation of biological diversity is dependent on the integration of conservation objectives into the framework of regional economic development, which will require a blending of our scientific and economic understanding about these issues. This course focuses on the scientific and economic issues related to the conservation and preservation of natural ecosystems via an in situ learning experience.
Course was offered Spring 2014
COMM 4694GCI: Business, Politics & Culture in the European Union (3)
This class looks at the origins, development, and current institutions of the European Union. The focus is on the environment in which business operates, cultural differences, and the emerging issues of regulation. The European Union is the most developed of the regional trading groups but has always had a somewhat different purpose. Antitrust, banking regulation, and response to economic crisis are some of the major topics considered.
COMM 4701The Analyst's Edge (3)
This hybrid seminar/independent study, focuses on finding attractive investments. Students will develop the ability to produce unique and differentiated research that can be applied to finding compelling longs and shorts. A major theme of the class will be the study and practice of value-added research. Each student will work to understand how to apply their research to investment ideas. The learning process will be highly experiential. Prerequisite: Required Application Process; 4th Year Commerce
COMM 4702Credit Markets and Risk (3)
Using a combination of lectures and the case method, this course will explore credit markets from the perspective of a practicing asset manager. Most discussions will begin with the risks embedded in various credit instructments,and then explore the opportunities for investors and issuers to profit from or be harmed by these risks. They cover a wide range of credit instruments, with a heavy emphasis on asset securitization.
Course was offered Fall 2016
COMM 4703Global Macro Investing (3)
This intensive course will focus on the influence of macro factors on fundamental global investing. Students will develop skills to anticipate and understand macro events and their impact on investment opportunities in both domestic and international markets. Through interactions with Mr. Shumway and prominent guest speakers, students will develop multiple investment ideas over the course of the semester.
COMM 4710Intermediate Investments (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Provides an understanding of contemporary cash and derivative equity securities and markets. Both investment theory and its practical applications are considered. The primary perspective for most discussions is that of an institutional investor, although applications to personal finance are included. Both U.S. and international equity and fixed-income markets are discussed. Topics include asset allocation, portfolio theory, market efficiency, models of asset pricing, program trading, and equity options and financial futures. Prerequisite: Fourth-year Commerce standing or instructor permission.
COMM 4720Advanced Corporate Finance: Valuation and Restructuring (3)
This course covers corporate valuation and the restructuring of both non-distressed firms (for example, leveraged buyout transactions) and distressed firms. Prerequisite: fourth-year Commerce.
COMM 4721Advanced Corporate Finance: Investment Banking (3)
This course covers the traditional investment-banking functions of secruity design, issuance, and deal structure as well as risk-taking functions with emphasis on the market-making function. The course also covers current issues related to industry structure and regulation. Prerequisite: 4th Year Commerce
COMM 4722Corporate Restructuring & Distress Investing (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course familiarizes students with the restructuring of financially distressed firms and distressed investing. We analyze credit documents, model credit risk, and survey restructuring methods. Throughout, we consider credit and distressed debt as asset classes and develop techniques and models for investing in credit and distressed instruments.
Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023
COMM 4730Advanced Investments: Derivatives and Fixed Income (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course covers the valuation and use of derivative and fixed income securities in corporate finance and investment management. The securities covered include calls, puts, exotic options, forwards, futures, swaps, floating rate notes, credit derivatives, and other structured products.
COMM 4731Advanced Investments: Principles of Securities Trading (3)
This course is about how securities are traded. It focuses on the design, operation and regulation of trading processes and mechanisms. The intellectual framework for the material comes from economics, financial economics, and a newer subfield of financial economics known as market microstructure. In-class simulations play an important role in the learning process in this course. If you have not completed COMM 3720/4710, request Instructor Permission.
COMM 4732Advanced Investments: Quantitative Equity Portfolio Management (3)
The course builds on the equity markets material in COMM 4710. We examine factor models, as used in practice, to both describe the risk vs. return trade-off in U.S. equity markets & to evaluate active equity portfolio managers. Given this framework, we define & examine a number of quantitative strategies including: value, momentum, low volatility (both long-only & long/short). Finally, we discuss the issue of interconnected portfolio strategies.
COMM 4733Advanced Investments: Asset Management in the Global Economy (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course focuses on two questions. How do global macroeconomic conditions drive returns across asset classes? How do global investors use this information to build better portfolios? Topics will include issues in measuring economic data, the role of models in investing, portfolio analytics and allocation methods, factor-based investing, global growth, inflation and monetary policy, credit cycles, foreign exchange economics, and other timely topics in asset management.
Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023
COMM 4741Foundations of Global Commerce (3)
Foundations of Global Commerce examines the global context of business, the evolution of that context, and the many business implications. The course covers the global macro-economy, application of an analytical framework, and important future trends. In addition to mastering a defined body of knowledge, the course emphasizes conceptual thinking and a commitment to curiosity, critical analysis, active participation and intellectual risk-taking.
COMM 4742International Finance and Accounting (3)
Offered overseas during the summer session. Explores the international financial environment in which economic and financial policies and business decisions are made. International monetary relations are covered, emphasizing the balance of payment measure, forward exchange markets, international capital markets, and correspondent networks. Prerequisite: COMM 3010, 3020, 3030, 3040, 3050, 3060, or instructor permission.
COMM 4760Private Equity (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course will provide an overview of the entire "private equity cycle" running from fund formation through investment exit. Both theoretical and practical issues will receive attention with the balance tipping toward the latter. Students are to be prepared to discuss a case or other reading assignments during the first half of most class meetings. The second half of our meetings will most often include speakers with expertise in the subject. Pre-requisite: Fourth-year Commerce standing.
COMM 4770Financial Management of Financial Service Firms (3)
Introduction to the financial theory and management of financial service industries. A contemporary orientation, supplemented by frequent practitioner speakers, combined with recent theoretical constructs, provides insight into the place of financial service institutions in the international economy. Includes lectures, cases and a computer simulation. Prerequisite: Fourth-year Commerce standing or instructor permission.
COMM 4780Institutional Investment Management (3)
In this class you will apply quantitative tools to deconstruct each of the main asset classes, developing a more nuanced understanding of the risks one owns, and to evaluate a managers' returns for delivering those risks. You will also learn how to design and evaluate strategic asset allocations for specific goals through a case evaluating the portfolio of the University of Virginia Endowment.
COMM 4790Fundamentals of Real Estate Analysis (3)
Introductory course forms the background of concepts, tools and techniques. This course details the study and practice of real estate as it draws from a multitude of disciplines including architecture, urban and regional planning, building construction, urban economics, law, and finance. Prerequisites: Fourth-year Commerce standing.
COMM 4791Real Estate Investment Analysis (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Develops an anlytical framework by which individuals and institutions can make real estate investment and financing decisions. Emphasizes theory, concept building, financial modeling, and practical real estate applications. Uses the case method to illustrate implementation of an analytical framework. Prerequisites: Fourth-year Commerce standing or instructor permission.
COMM 4792Commercial Real Estate Seminar:Advanced Issues and Fieldwork (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course addresses advanced, decision related issues within a value based theory of real estate investment and finance. It facilitates development of advanced insight into the analytical techniques and theoretical perspectives most relevant to such decisions. The course exposes students to industry related software programs including Argus and Crystal Ball for analyzing real estate related investment and finance decisions.
COMM 4821Foundations of Sustainable Commerce (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course provides instruction in the foundations of sustainable commerce, that is, business activities designed for a finite and equitable planet. The course begins with a review of our pressing sustainability challenges, then describes how the fundamental business disciplines (strategy, accounting, marketing, operations, finance and management) are innovating, operating and facilitating commercial solutions to these issues.
COMM 4822Invest in Sustainable Future (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This interdisciplinary course explores four critical areas at the intersection of business and sustainability: 1) Climate Finance, 2) Conservation Finance, 3) Circular Economy and 4) ESG Investing. In addition to acquiring an understanding of these key sustainability challenges, participants will gain skill in applying analytical tools and techniques to the evaluation of sustainable investment opportunities.
COMM 4824Sustainability in Nicaragua: Implications for Public Health and Prosperity (3)
This course in Nicaragua in January examines the impacts of globalization on people living in emerging economies. Classes will be based on a textbook, cases, and briefings from leaders in local government, NGOs, health care organizations, and business leaders. Students will also be teamed with students from a local university to plan development projects aimed at addressing one or more of the UN Millennium Development Goals.
COMM 4825Global Commerce Immersion: Development Practice: NGO's in Bangladesh (3)
Discover concepts for managing social enterprises and serving markets at the "bottom of the pyramid." We will visit world-famous microcredit organizations and attend their village group meetings. We will also learn about successes in profit-making businesses established for the benefit of poor people. We will explore management of social enterprises operating in a global environment and learn about successful poverty reduction programs.
COMM 4831Cultivating Wisdom and Well-Being for Personal & Professional Growth (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Aristotle maintained that the goal of life is to achieve well-being through wisdom. In this course we seek new understanding and tools as to how wisdom and sell-being apply to professional and personal situations. Emphasis is on marketing management and leadership. the course proceeds by way of readings, discussions, and exercises in addition to a culminating individual project for growth in career and/or personal life-planning.
COMM 4839Global Commerce Scholar Thesis Development (1)
Offered
Spring 2025
The GCS thesis program takes place over 3 semesters. Registration for COMM 4839 does not guarantee admission to the program. Admission to the program is determined by a faculty advisor's willingness to take on the student's project. During the 1st semester students will focus on developing their research idea with their advisor. They are expected to meet with their advisor regularly. Students must make sufficient progress to remain in the program.
COMM 4840Global Commerce Scholar Thesis Proposal (2)
Students admitted to the GCS program will meet periodically with their advisor & other students & faculty members involved in the program. Over the course of the semester, students will first produce a literature review & then a research proposal that will serve as the roadmap for the thesis to be completed during the spring semester (Comm 4841). The proposal will be presented at the end of the semester before student & faculty of the program. Prerequisite: Must be admitted into the Global Commerce Scholar Program
COMM 4841Global Commerce Scholar Thesis (2)
Offered
Spring 2025
Students will meet regularly with their advisor during the semester as they work to complete the independent research program developed in Comm 4840. Students will submit a preliminary thesis document for review prior to the end of the semester and will present the final thesis before the McIntire student community and faculty at the end of the semester.
COMM 4881Leadership Practicum (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Capitalizing on the leadership knowledge, skills, and abilities that students have fostered through courses in the Leadership Minor, students will complete an applied leadership project that focuses on providing solutions to a real problem facing a sponsor organization. In addition to the project, students will engage with leaders in the Charlottesville community to learn about the challenges leaders face in different contexts.
COMM 4898Learning Experience (1)
For students seeking a not-for-profit internship or in some disciplines in the Commerce School, a for-credit course is appropriate for a summer internship. This class focuses on enabling the students to assess the culture of the organization, the structure of the organization, & the nature of not-for-profits. There are 3 papers looking at the experience from different time perspectives & a single class meeting in which the experience is shared.
COMM 4899Cross Cultural Experience (1)
Offered
Spring 2025
Cross Cultural Experience
COMM 4993Independent Study in Commerce (1 - 6)
Offered
Spring 2025
Independent study under the supervision of a Commerce instructor. A project directly related to business must be submitted to, and approved by, the supervising instructor prior to the Commerce School add date. Students may take COMM 4993 only once. Prerequisite: Fourth-year Commerce standing.
COMM 5100Accounting Information Systems (3)
This course is designed to achieve the following objectives: design and use accounting information systems; learn COSO, COBIT and the foundations for building business controls and managing business risk; understand IT governance in an organization and how IT controls and governance relate to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act; understand how IT controls and risks must be integrated into a company's overall risk profile; design and implement control systems.
COMM 5110Financial Statement Analysis (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course is designed to strengthen your ability to correctly interpret financial statements & their accompanying disclosures. Throughout the semester we will discuss the key disclosure rules in the United States, the communication methods available to managers, managers' incentives & ability to exert discretion over reported earnings, & the interplay between a company's corporate strategy and its financial reporting policies and practices. Prerequisite: 4th Year Commerce
COMM 5130Advanced Financial Accounting (3)
This course provides an understanding of financial reporting issues related to business combinations, inter-corporate investments, consolidated financial statements, corporate restructurings, and international transactions and operations. Understanding the economic substance and impact these issues have upon the financial statements are important for professional accountants and financial analysts. Prerequisite: COMM 3110.
COMM 5140Accounting for Decision Making and Control (3)
How do managers use financial information to help deliver their organization's value proposition? This course will help you actively learn how to prepare and use financial information that can be used by managers when making critical business decisions. This course is designed specifically for accounting, management, marketing and finance majors.
COMM 5160Government and Nonprofit Accounting (1.5)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course will introduce you to financial reporting, budgeting, and auditing in not-for-profit entities; government-wide and fund financial statements for state and local governments; and generally accepted government auditing standards. This course will help prepare you to take the portion of the CPA exam related to government and not-for-profit issues and will provide a foundation for auditing, working with, and/or serving on GNP boards.
COMM 5161Environmental, Social, and Governance Accounting (1.5)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course introduces students to sustainability reporting and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues, attempting to give a more expansive view of organizations' financial, social, and environmental performance. We will critically evaluate current sustainability metrics, attempt to quantify and compare firms' sustainability efforts, and discuss the challenges behind adopting rigorous, universal sustainability standards.
Course was offered Spring 2024
COMM 5460Taxes & Business Strategy (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Tax rules are pervasive in their effect on the decisions of businesses. This course uses the economics-based framework of "all parties, all taxes, all costs" to consider how both tax and non-tax factors affect business activities. Specific decision settings examined include mergers and acquisitions, compensation, and multi-jurisdictional tax planning. How firms report these tax effects in their financial statements will also be covered.
COMM 5510Topics in Accounting (3)
Seminar on Current issues in Accounting.
COMM 5519GCI: Topics in Accounting (1 - 3)
Global Commerce courses that count in Accounting concentration.
COMM 5559New Course in Commerce (1 - 3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course provides the opportunity to offer new topics in the subject of Commerce.
COMM 5700Financial Trading (3)
This course examines the nature and influence of trading on financial market prices. Particular attention is directed to the role of noise in financial markets; the psychology of participants in financial markets; the identification of potential profitable trading opportunities; back office processing of trades; the management of the trading function; and artificial neural networks and AI expert trading systems. Mock pit trading sessions are held to give firsthand experience in simulated pit trading environments and illustrate some of the skills necessary for successful trading. Prerequisite: Fourth-year Commerce or graduate standing, or instructor permission.
COMM 5993Cross Cultural Experience (1)
This course is for international students engaged in CPT (Curricular Practical Training). Students will report out and reflect on their experiences within professional practice and in their specific discipline.
Course was offered Spring 2023, Spring 2022
Graduate Commerce
GCOM 5211Basic Assurance Services (3)
This includes the planning, processes (gathering evidence), and judgments required to render an opinion on an entity's financial statements. Deals with evidence theory, risk identification, and professional judgment. Audit methodology is examined through a study of auditing standards and the concepts and procedures developed to implement those standards. Other topics include professional ethics, auditor's liability, and other issues.
Course was offered Summer 2010
GCOM 5231Special Topics in Advanced Accounting (3)
This purpose of this course is to expand your knowledge of financial reporting, from a user's perspective. To achieve this we discuss how analysts use financial information to value the firm, how management sometimes attempts to alter perceptions of firm value, and how accounting rules can impact perceptions of firm value. Restricted to Ernst and Young YMP students.
Course was offered Summer 2010
GCOM 5871Communication Strategies for Business Professionals (3)
Participants will sharpen speaking and writing skills for professional situations related to their areas of concentration. We'll learn strategies for structuring and delivering persuasive material for a variety of audiences and engage in some of the most important conversations taking place in business today that cut across all areas. These may include globalization and emerging communication technologies. Restricted to MS in Accounting students.
GCOM 7005Introduction to Consulting and Advisory Thinking (1.5)
This course is designed to help students attack complex and ambiguous problems like a strategy consultant by applying a hypothesis-driven problem solving approach to real world business problems. An early module in the course focuses on case interview preparation - an important hiring measure used by consulting firms as well as many other top tier companies.
Course was offered Fall 2018, Fall 2017, Fall 2016, Fall 2015
GCOM 7010Global Strategy and Systems (7.5)
Global Strategy and Systems provides an overview of global business from both a strategic process perspective and the organization as a system. It introduces a broad conceptual framework involving strategic and critical thinking, business planning, and general management functions. It provides a foundation for the other core modules that develop more specific concepts and techniques. Restricted to MS in Commerce students.
GCOM 7020Strategic Cost Management (1.5)
This course covers the use of cost data in strategic planning and control to facilitate the development and implementation of business strategies. Restricted to MS in Commerce students.
GCOM 7030Financial Accounting (1.5)
Financial Accounting incorporates the perspectives of accounting, corporate finance, and economics to help students understand financial statements and the judgments and incentives underlying accounting choices. The course will use an integrated, cross-disciplinary view of financial reporting and will include major accounting topic including assets, liabilities, equity, off-balance-sheet financing, measurement issues, valuation, and the analysis. Restricted to MS in Commerce students.
GCOM 7040Marketing and Quantitative Analysis (3)
Marketing and Quantitative Analysis introduces the marketing management processes that can be applied to various global markets. Topics include understanding market metrics, consumer market dynamics, consumer behavior and social/cultural trends, organizational buying behaviors, market segmentation, global branding, management of goods and services in diverse markets, and marketing decision systems. Restricted to MS in Commerce students.
GCOM 7050Organizational Behavior (1.5)
Organizational Behavior examines human behavior both within the organization and within the global business environment. It discusses personal effectiveness and interpersonal skills in a global climate. Topics include cross-cultural differences, global and virtual teams, leadership, conflict resolution, decision making, creating high-performance teams. Restricted to MS in Commerce students.
GCOM 7060Financial Management (3)
Financial Management covers basic corporate finance including cost of capital, capital budgeting, valuation of stock and bonds, working capital management, and international finance. Prerequisite: Restricted to MS in Commerce students.
GCOM 7080Seeking Authenticity and Thinking as a Leader (1)
Seeking Authenticity and Thinking as a Leader course continues from first term. Prerequisite: Restricted to MS in Commerce students.
GCOM 7100Marketing Research (1.5)
Marketing Research
GCOM 7120Customer Value Analytics (4)
GCOM 7120 is a research-oriented class that focuses on understanding how a company's strategic operations and resources can influence customer experiences and business performance outcomes (e.g., market share, average receipt values, and sales per square foot). The class provides marketing managers and operational business leaders with the analytical tools to deliver memorable customer experiences that connect with customers and enhance loyalty.
GCOM 7130Brand Management (3)
Brand Management covers key strategies for identifying, building and defending brands. Brands are among companies most valuable assets. Through lectures, case discussions, exercises and group projects, the course examines the art and science of leveraging, extending and positioning brands into value-creation. Pre-requisites: Restricted to MS in Commerce students.
GCOM 7131Business, Politics & Culture in the European Union (3)
This class looks at the origins, development, and current institutions of the European Union. The focus is on the environment in which business operates, cultural differences, and the emerging issues of regulation. The European Union is the most developed of the regional trading groups but has always had a somewhat different purpose. Antitrust, banking regulation, and response to economic crisis are some of the major topics considered.
Course was offered Fall 2017
GCOM 7140Customer Analytics (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
GCOM 7140 is a research-oriented class that examines how firms can leverage customer analytics to successfully create, manage, and grow brands. The class provides marketing managers and operational business leaders with the analytical tools to develop and operationally execute brand strategies that enhance customer engagement and loyalty.
GCOM 7150Consumer Behavior and Pricing Strategies (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Consumer Behavior and Pricing Strategy integrates our understanding of consumers from research in marketing, psychology, and behavioral economics. We will take the perspective of a marketing manager and employ this knowledge to develop, execute, and implement effective marketing strategies. Prerequisite: M.S. in Commerce students only
GCOM 7160Brand Management & Strategy (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course will expose you to the knowledge and skills required of, 1) brand managers as they successfully launch and manage branded products/services over time, and 2) brand consultants who consult brand managers on the best strategies and techniques for managing brands. You will also learn the process for conducting a brand audit through a group semester project.
GCOM 7170Digital Strategy & Analytics (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Examines ways to design, develop and execute effective integrated, web, and social marketing programs. The course uses a business planning model which allows students to justify, build, and execute social and digital marketing programs with bottom line ROI. Students learn to identify and measure high value market segments, use web and social research to evaluate competitors and convince management of the value of digital and social marketing.
GCOM 7180Creating Value in Business to Business Markets (3)
New Graduate Commerce Course: Customer Relationship Management & Value Creation in B2B Markets
Course was offered Spring 2016
GCOM 7190Developing and Managing Innovative New Products (3)
Developing innovative products is the lifeblood of the firm, yet many product introductions fail due to improper design, unrealistic expectations or a failure to understand the consumer. This course will dissect the new product development process, including creative ideation, concept testing, prototyping, and entry strategies. Concepts such as open source innovation, disruptive technologies, and the diffusion of innovations are also considered.
GCOM 7210Foundations of Machine Learning and AI with Low-Code Technologies (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Through labs, assignments, and a capstone project, students build, evaluate, & deploy predictive ML/AI models using low-code technologies and learn how to apply these concepts to create value & support real-world applications. Students will also learn managerial considerations employing analytics initiatives to create business & societal value. No prior experience with coding, machine learning, or AI is assumed or expected.
GCOM 7211Advanced Business Law (3)
Advanced Business Law. Restricted to Ernst and Young YMP students.
Course was offered Summer 2010
GCOM 7214Managerial View of AI (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course aims to provide students with a practical understanding of Artificial Intelligence technology. It covers key factors for the successful development, deployment, and management of AI, machine learning, and other algorithmic approaches to automated decision-making. Students will better understand the societal impacts of AI, ethical considerations in the use of AI, the limitations of AI, and approaches to balance AI risks and benefits.
Course was offered Spring 2024
GCOM 7215Python for Data Science (1.5)
Offered
Spring 2025
The course provides an overview of the fundamentals necessary to conduct data analytics with Python including understanding Python objects, data types, structures, packages, and data flow statements; and, reading, writing, manipulating, and plotting data. Students will perform predictive analytics via machine learning using industry-standard packages.
Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023
GCOM 7216Data Aggregation & Visualization (1.5)
Offered
Spring 2025
Students will learn how to communicate effectively with data and data structures. This includes how to evaluate potential sources of data, aggregate data values from multiple sources, and compile creative, professional, and descriptive visualizations from that data. Students will learn the best type of chart or figure for different situations and how to format those visualizations to maximize the impact to the viewer.
GCOM 7220Global Finance (3)
This course takes an integrated approach to the study of the global financial system, capital and foreign exchange markets, risk management, and the dynamics that impact investors, financial institutions, corporations and other market participants. Drawing on a combination of theory, practical experience, and case studies, we also try to understand the behavior of global financial markets within a broader set of economic and geopolitical considerations. Restricted to MS in Accounting students.
GCOM 7230Data Management for Decision Making (3)
Provides an overview of the concepts, technologies, and tools necessary to support and improve electronic commerce, with emphasis on tools and methodologies for measuring and enhancing digital presence. The two major areas covered are web analytics and search analytics. Through a semester-long group project, the course focuses on how these concepts can be used to measure, analyze, and improve user experience, web traffic, and conversion rates.
GCOM 7240Advanced Quantitative Analysis (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Multivariate statistics training to analyze Big Data sets. The course covers discrete choice modeling (logistic and probit models), classification techniques (discriminant and cluster analyses), data reduction techniques (factor analysis), and advanced predictive techniques (regression models with interactions and curvilinear effects, structural equation modeling, and factorial ANOVA). Trains students on IBM-SPSS, SAS, and R.
GCOM 7250Product & Project Management (3)
The primary objective of Project Management is to provide a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for the effective management of projects. To this end, the course is closely tied to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK, as espoused by the Project Management Institute) and consists of seminars on such topics as planning, stakeholder management, human resource management, global/virtual teams, risk management. Prerequisites: Restricted to MS in Commerce students.
GCOM 7251Essentials of Project Management (1.5)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course provides students with an introduction in how to effectively fill the role of Project Manager. It covers a blend of conceptual knowledge and practical skills necessary for the effective management of complex projects.
Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023
GCOM 7252Consulting (1.5)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course is designed to provide a broad overview of management consulting and other related advisory services professions while also helping students develop skills that are broadly applicable in these professions as well as in other fields (business, politics, not-for-profit, etc.). Working both individually and in teams, students will gain an appreciation of what makes consulting and advisory services unique from other areas of business.
Course was offered Spring 2024
GCOM 7260Unstructured Data Analytics (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course is focused on harnessing the power of unstructured data to perform advanced analytical techniques. Students will be exposed to big data technologies (NoSQL, Hadoop, etc.) to understand how to manage and interact with large, complex data sets. We will also cover various analytical and machine learning techniques that can apply to these data, with particular attention to text data from reports, articles, and social media.
GCOM 7261Management Writing for Accounting Professionals (1)
This course covers management writing strategies essential for clear, organized, specific messages. We'll focus on the importance of audience, occasion, and style which are the foundation for successful and persuasive writing. Topics include effective emails and memos, the two most commonly used business messages. Restricted to Ernst and Young YMP students.
Course was offered Summer 2010
GCOM 7263Cybersecurity as a Business Risk (3)
This course provides a manager's view of cybersecurity and privacy that contains an overview of methods for managing and mitigating cybersecurity risk in organizations. Further, this course includes an emphasis on applying analytics to understand cybersecurity threats. The course will also explore the role of privacy in society.
GCOM 7270Information Technology Project Practicum (3)
Provides a comprehensive application of the concepts, methodologies, and tools necessary for the analysis and design of business systems. Students gain hands-on experience in a real world project setting. Prerequisite: COMM 3200, or instructor permission.
GCOM 7280Big Data (1.5)
This course provides an overview of the characteristics of big data and introduces state-of-the-art NoSQL technologies for managing operational and analytical data. Students will learn techniques (e.g., Hadoop, columnar database, and python) for big data management, and design data architectures for big data-enabled applications, including search engines, recommender systems, and artificial intelligence.
GCOM 7290Frontiers in Biotechnology I (3)
This course is first in a two-seminar sequence that introduces students to the science and business of the biotechnology industry. The course will explore cutting edge translational research that is shaping current commercialization and industry trends. Students will engage directly with primary research literature and learn from leading scientists and industry executives. Example topics include AI, gene editing/therapy, precision medicine, tissue engineering, biomanufacturing, synthetic biology.
Course was offered Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022
GCOM 7291Frontiers in Biotechnology II (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course is second in a two-seminar sequence that introduces students to the science and business of the biotechnology industry. In addition to continued exploration of translational research, this course will focus on deeper scientific and commercialization topics specific to the industry, including operational and financial perspectives across all stages of organizational maturity. Students will learn from industry leaders who are commercializing, analyzing, and investing in biotechnology.
Course was offered Spring 2024
GCOM 7292Entrepreneurship (1.5)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course focuses on how to successfully commercialize breakthrough technologies that have high potential to generate social and/or economic value. Issues related to identifying market needs and potential, developing commercialization plans, and understanding business models and entrepreneurial strategy are covered. As an introduction, this is not an appropriate course for students who minored in or have a strong foundation in entrepreneurship.
Course was offered Spring 2024
GCOM 7310Strategic Business Advising and Comm (3)
This course introduces the consulting process and helps identify and refine the skill sets necessary for successful consultation. Half of the course will focus on cognitive processes involved in framing and designing the engagement. The other half will address tactical issues around engagement work planning, data gathering, field interviewing, and communicating with clients. Content will include cases, written exercises, and final presentation.
GCOM 7311Strategic Business Advising (1.5)
This course explores the dynamics of the business advisory services segment of the global consulting market and a common structured methodology to identify, create a framework to solve, and ultimately resolve any type of business-advising problem.
Course was offered Summer 2011, Summer 2010
GCOM 7313Applied Strategic Thinking and Communication (3)
This course is designed to help you approach problems like a strategy consultant. A key component of the course is on developing case interviewing skills: an important hiring measure used by consulting firms. Case interviews test students' abilities to listen, ask questions, structure problems, analyze data and ultimately communicate a compelling recommendation. Prerequisite: M.S. in Accounting Student Only
Course was offered Spring 2015
GCOM 7320Accounting Policy (3)
This course covers the theory and practice of corporate financial reporting. It highlights the development of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and accounting policy choices at the macro (standard setter) level and the micro or company level. Cases are used to evaluate accounting conventions, particularly with regard to how those decisions reflect economic reality and the quality of earnings. Restricted to MS in Accounting Students.
GCOM 7330Enterprise Risk Management and Consulting (3)
The course looks at the strategic, operational, and financial risk that organizations face. Through case discussions, the process of risk identification, risk assessment, and risk monitoring is covered.
Course was offered Fall 2011, Fall 2010, Fall 2009
GCOM 7340Corporate Financial Reporting (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course is designed to expand your knowledge of financial reporting from a user's perspective. To do this, we use firm disclosures to explore: how analysts use financial information to value the firm, how some managers attempt to alter perceptions of firm value, and how accounting rules can impact perceptions of firm value. Restricted to MS in Accounting Students.
GCOM 7341Banking and Accounting for Derivatives (3)
This course develops a framework for understanding the uses and financial reporting of derivatives as used in the banking system. The course will focus on a discussion of contract specifications, business uses and valuation of the three main classes of derivatives: futures & forwards, swaps and options. It will then focus on how to account for these types of derivatives. Restricted to MS in Accounting Students.
GCOM 7342Judgment and Decision Making in Accounting (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course helps students understand how behavior, psychology and biases influence the preparation, interpretation, and auditing of accounting information. The class will explore theories and research on judgment and decision making, and how those theories apply to aspects of financial reporting and auditing. Restricted to MS in Accounting Students.
GCOM 7349Introduction to Auditing (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Includes the planning, processes (gathering evidence), & judgments required to render an opinion on an entity's internal controls and financial statements. Deals with evidence theory, risk identification & professional judgment. Audit methodology is examined through a study of auditing standards & the concepts & procedures developed to implement those standards. Other topics include data analytics, auditor independence, materiality & audit reports.
Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022
GCOM 7350Advanced Auditing and Applied Data Analytics (3)
Intensive study of advanced auditing topics, including how auditors are using data analytics to respond to new challenges facing the profession. Topics will be covered primarily through (a) professional and academic readings and (b) a case-based approach that will allow for a hands-on experience with data analytics tools and techniques. Prerequisite: Auditing.
GCOM 7351Special Topics in International Accounting (3)
The role of accounting in international contexts will be explored, with the objective to help students become familiar with regulatory, cultural and business environment issues that affect and are affected by accounting and the accounting profession. Specific topics will vary from semester to semester, but the course will likely include an international travel component and interactions with many international parties.
GCOM 7360Accounting Analytics and Fraud (3)
This course provides hands-on, real-life experience in accounting analytics. Students gain exposure to data analysis tools, digital evidence, and investigative techniques while studying examples of and learning how to combat "white-collar" crime. A case study method is employed, so students learn from past occurrences of fraud, and students are required to keep up with current events and developments in the accounting profession.
GCOM 7361Accounting for Mergers and Acquisitions (3)
The purpose of this course is to explore mergers, acquisitions, and other corporate control transactions within an accounting and valuation framework. This course also serves an integrative purpose. Mergers and acquisitions represent significant changes that involve the entire enterprise. As such, this course provides an opportunity to link financial decision-making with the overall strategy of the firm. Restricted to Ernst and Young YMP students.
Course was offered Summer 2011, Summer 2010
GCOM 7370Financial Statement Analysis (3)
The course centers on the fundamentals of valuation, and how accounting and other information affect perceived and managed value. The course begins by establishing value maximization as the goal of the firm. The process and fundamentals of valuation are explored. Second, students explore how to analyze the decisions that affect firm value (e.g., investing, financing, etc.). Third, students explore the impact, on perceived value, of  accounting alternatives (e.g., U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Standards).
Course was offered Spring 2011, Spring 2010
GCOM 7371Financial Reporting and Predictive Analytics (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Given the widespread use of financial reporting and the growing use of Big Data, business institutions have increasing demand for people who can bridge the disciplines of data, analytics methods, and decision making. This course is designed to develop your ability to extract, analyze, and interpret information from required financial reporting.
GCOM 7380Data Management and Analytics for Accountants (3)
This course provides an introduction to management and use of data in business. The course emphasizes understanding fundamentals of relational database systems design and querying using SQL and provides a basic understanding of developments and trends in Business Intelligence/Analytics, with implications for accountants. Restricted to MS in Accounting Students.
GCOM 7381Ethics in Business, Accounting, and Auditing (3)
This course examines ethical considerations within specific contexts frequently encountered by accountants to recognize common ethical situations faced in business (by accountants, their organizations and their clients). We will study ethical frameworks and professional rules and practice, applying analyses to real-life and fictitious cases to learn from the experiences of others and how to manage ethical challenges in a professional context.
GCOM 7390Negotiations (3)
This course introduces students to the theory and practice of negotiation. Students will develop an understanding of the structure of the negotiation, the interests of the other party, the opportunities and barriers to creating and claiming value on a sustainable basis, and the range of possible moves and countermoves. Prerequisite: Restricted to Graduate Commerce.
Course was offered Spring 2011
GCOM 7400Leading for Success in the Accounting Profession (1.5)
The course is designed to expose students to important skills that will be critical in their career development and management. We do this by doing cases and exercises; and learning from professionals about keys to success. Restricted to MS in Accounting Students.
GCOM 7410Tax Research (3)
This course has been designed to expose students to the various statutory, administrative, and judicial sources of the tax law. Case studies are used throughout the course to assist students in developing and refining their proficiency in identifying issues, locating and interpreting pertinent authority, and effectively and professionally communicating their conclusions. Students will learn to use the electronic tax data base RIA checkpoint.
GCOM 7430Taxation of Partnerships and Flow Through Entities (3)
This course provides an in-depth coverage of tax rules regarding the operations partnerships and flow-thru entities. A number of businesses utilize "pass-thru" for financing, investing and tax-planning reasons and partnerships are a powerful business tool as they allow flexibility regarding how to allocate income and distribute cash. This course will require reading of the internal revenue code. Restricted to MS in Accounting Students.
GCOM 7440Advanced Corporate Tax (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
The course addresses the various business, tax, and accounting issues arising in connection with the formation, operation, and termination of domestic corporations and their shareholders. It provides in-depth coverage of the technical rules of Subchapter C, and places special emphasis on the identification and implementation of tax planning strategies available to corporations and their shareholders. Restricted to MS in Accounting Students.
GCOM 7451Federal Taxation (3)
Analyzes the federal income tax law and its application to business, investment, and personal transactions. The objectives of the course are to develop a basic understanding of the federal income tax laws and to provide a framework for integrating income tax planning into the decision-making process.
GCOM 7460Tax Strategies for the Executive and the Entrepreneur (3)
This is an eclectic course that addresses the federal income, estate, and gift tax issues and strategies that arise in connection with executive compensation (stock options, nonqualified deferred compensation strategies, etc.), planning for the death or incapacity of the owners of a closely held business (buy-sell arrangements, succession planning, etc.), gratuitous inter vivos and testamentary transfers of large wealth. The course provides in-depth coverage of federal estate and gift taxes, the generation-skipping transfer tax, and the use of trusts. Related business issues non-tax aspects of executive compensation and business succession planning and related financial accounting principles are also covered.
GCOM 7470International Business and Investment Transactions (3)
This eclectic, case-oriented, transaction-based course addresses the various financial, accounting, and tax issues arising in connection with a wide range of international business and investment transactions. It presents a detailed introduction to international finance (e.g., accessing international financial markets, managing foreign exchange risk, and using various financial instruments), and comprehensive coverage of international taxation and tax planning strategies (including transfer pricing, foreign tax credit planning, Subpart F, etc.). The course also contains a module on U.S. accounting principles applicable to multinational transactions and operations, and on the managerial accounting aspects of control systems for multinational business operations. Students are exposed to international accounting standards promulgated by the International Accounting Standards Committee. The tax and accounting systems of several countries are compared and contrasted with those of the United States. The course also contains a module on state and local taxation.
GCOM 7480Legal Liability and the Regulation of Accountants (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Today's CPA must have a working familiarity with a number of areas of business law to properly advise clients and to protect their own interests as a practitioner. This course is designed to meet both objectives. The course is broken into six main parts: (1) business entities; (2) civil liability and unfair competition in business; (3) intellectual property; (4) employment law; (5) contracts; and (6) bankruptcy law for businesses.
GCOM 7490Negotiating for Value (3)
In this course the student will become aware of various activities of negotiating through the broad use of cases. Some subjects covered include negotiating strategy and tactics, preparation, the importance of relationships in negotiating, managing tension, and creating additional value in a given situation beyond the obvious.
GCOM 7500Special Topics in Accounting (3)
Presents the opportunity to examine new and emerging Accounting topics or study a related area in greater depth than is covered in other courses. Prerequisite: Graduate Commerce.
Course was offered Spring 2018
GCOM 7510Special Topics in Finance (3)
New Graduate Commerce Course: Special Topics in Finance
GCOM 7520Topics in Information Technology (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Presents the opportunity to examine new and emerging IT topics or study a particular IT related area in greater depth than is covered in other courses. Prerequisite: Graduate Commerce.
GCOM 7540Topics in Graduate Global Commerce Immersion (3)
Global commerce immersion course options for M.S. in Accounting students. Prerequisite: M.S. in Accounting Students Only
Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023
GCOM 7549Commerce in the Global Context (1 - 4)
A full understanding of commerce requires an appreciation of the context in which all business occurs. Commerce in the Global Context builds upon GCOM 7870 (Foundations of Global Commerce), introducing students to business in a variety of regions of the world as well as important topics in global business.
Course was offered Spring 2020
GCOM 7550Topics in Global Immersion Experience (1 - 5)
Global immersion experience course options for M.S. in Commerce students.
Course was offered Spring 2021, Spring 2020
GCOM 7559New Course in Commerce (3)
This course provides the opportunity to offer new topics in the subject of Commerce.
GCOM 7560Emerging Topics in Commerce (1.5)
McIntire aims to train students on the latest business practices and decision-making tools. While this statement describes the entire MS-Commerce curriculum, this 1.5 credit hour current topics course is designed to track analytical tools likely to change more frequently than our other courses. The specific topics and tools covered are subject to change annually, as marketplace demands change.
GCOM 7600Management Consulting & Advisory Services (3)
This course provides a broad overview of management consulting and other related advisory services professions while helping students develop skills that are broadly applicable in these professions as well as in other fields. Students will gain an appreciation of industry structure and competitive dynamics, major practice areas, and future trends that help to make management consulting and advisory services unique from other business areas.
GCOM 7602Critical Thinking on Business Issues (3)
This books-based seminar course is designed to encourage students to think deeply and become more analytical about complex problems. The weekly discussions tackle topics such as market solutions, low-wage workers, virtues, and costs of globalization, technology and privacy, women's images, immigration policy and defining career success. The weekly assigned books are designed to provoke debate and experimentation with new ideas.
GCOM 7610New Venture Development (2)
The course will teach students the process of creating, financing, and sustaining new ventures. It will combine classroom instruction on the functional disciplines with knowledge from practitioners to teach students how to think through and launch a new venture. Student teams will work with faculty and practitioners to develop venture concepts and these will be judged on the viability of the venture and their successful application of concepts.
Course was offered Spring 2011, Spring 2010
GCOM 7621Managing Sustainable Development:Business Solutions to Global Challenges (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course will focus on global, environmental, and social sustainability and resilience. We will explore how corporations and non-governmental organizations can address and impact change in our current environment. We will study successful leadership strategies within corporations and by social entrepreneurs in effecting societal changes.
GCOM 7640Writing and Speaking for Accounting Professionals (3)
Although communication channels and forms are quickly evolving, business audiences continue to need information that is clear, concise, relevant, and meaningful. This course will help prepare you to communicate most effectively with executives, colleagues, and clients. Moreover, experts agree that you'll advance more quickly and have the best chance to succeed in your career if you possess strong communication skills. Prerequisite: M.S. in Accounting Students Only
Course was offered Spring 2016, Spring 2015
GCOM 7641Communicating Effectively as Accounting Professionals (1.5)
This course gives students an opportunity to strengthen both their oral and written communication skills within a framework designed to: emphasize the impact of audience and occasion on communication strategy; examine the power of well-designed, high-impact deliverables; develop professional presentation skills and increase their public speaking confidence. Restricted to MS in Accounting Students.
GCOM 7650International Corporate Governance & Strategy (3)
Corporate governance concerns the relationship between managers and a firm's other stakeholder groups including shareholders, employees, and the larger community. This course will explore fundamental theories of corporate governance and how governance practices differ across countries. We will discuss how globalization is driving changes in governance and examine different perspectives on what practices are best for international organizations.
GCOM 7651Strategic Leadership (3)
This course seeks to develop students' ability to respond to complex leadership challenges in a global context. Through experiential learning, students will be better prepared to influence the strategic direction of their organizations. Topics include understanding the role of strategic leaders, crafting organizational narratives, managing cultures, guiding change, balancing stakeholder expectations, and managing organizational threats.
GCOM 7652Business Analytics for Decision Making (3)
This course exposes students to how business analytics are used in range of global managerial contexts. Students develop a toolkit of analytical competencies, while also gaining experience in solving business problems and communicating analytical findings.
GCOM 7653Doing Business: US (1)
This course combines relevant classroom discussions, executive presentations, and a study trip to explore the interrelationships between business, politics, and economic development in the United States. We will use texts and documentary films to explore the history of American business and to analyze the factors that have shaped the current institutional environment.
GCOM 7654Researching & Writing a Global Business Thesis I (3)
This course focuses on researching and writing a thesis on a global business topic. Students will identify and defend a thesis topic, review significant literature, refine thesis research methodology, present thesis proposal ideas for class critique, revise and formally defend a thesis proposal, and begin initial research. The approved thesis proposal will launch research that will culminate in a formal thesis defense in the spring session.
GCOM 7655Global Market Research & Analytics (2)
This course is a research-oriented class that examines how firms can leverage customer analytics to create, manage, and grow brands. The class provides students with a strategic framework and analytical tools to develop and execute data-driven strategies that enhance customer engagement and loyalty. Through lectures, analysis workshops, class exercises, and team projects, the course investigates the art and science of delivering customer value.
GCOM 7660Global Supply Chain Management (2)
This course leads students to investigate key operational issues in managing global operations and supply chains. It delivers the latest theories, principles, and methods of modern operations management and global supply chain management. The course relies on case discussions, lectures, readings, and assignments. The principal pedagogy for this course is instructor-led, group discussion of the results of analyses performed by students.
GCOM 7661Consumer Behavior Across the Globe (3)
This course will explore the process of consumer decision-making and its determinants, and the resulting implications for marketing strategy. Concepts and theories covered in this course are essential for consumer analysis and development of effective marketing strategies. In addition, the course will develop understanding of consumer behavior by exploring theoretical concepts borrowed from fields such as psychology, sociology, and economics.
GCOM 7662International Financial Management (2)
This course aims to provide today's non-financial managers with sufficient understanding of fundamental concepts and tools of financial management in international settings to be effective global managers.The course will review the institutional use and valuation of financial instruments such as currency futures, currency options, and swaps. We will discuss hedging against exchange rate risk. The course will use a highly applied orientation.
GCOM 7663Doing Business: China (1)
This course will examine the business context of China, including Taiwan and Hong Kong. This course follows the "Doing Business: U.S." course and precedes the "Doing Business: European Union" course.
GCOM 7671Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility (2)
The objective of the course is to present the students with some tools and methodologies to understand, interpret and manage sustainability in a corporate setting. Different companies refer to sustainability management using different terms, such as CSR, compliance, social impact, or shared value among others, but for our purposes these are all synonymous.
GCOM 7672Managing Innovation in Global Operations (2)
This course seeks to familiarize students with concepts and models relevant to innovators and entrepreneurs. The course focuses on key aspects of the entrepreneurial process. It also seeks to prepare students to lead an innovative company beyond the scope of a startup, and to understand processes of corporate entrepreneurship, including those in large multinational firms. The course explores how to identify innovation while managing uncertainty.
GCOM 7673Cross-Border M&A and Strategic Alliances (2)
This course is designed to give students an introduction to the complex world of strategic alliances seen as an integrated process rather than watertight compartments of finance, business policy and human resources. By the end of the course, students should have grasped the complexity of such alliances, the risks they entail, and ways to increase critical success factors.
GCOM 7674Doing Business: EU (2)
This course covers the global nonmarket environment of the internationalized firm, with a special focus on Europe. First we cover the geopolitical dynamics as the overarching trends in a globalized economy. We then cover the European economy. The European Union, its politics and institutions are introduced prior to focusing on lobbying at the EU level. This course is provides an introduction to nonmarket strategy at an international level.
GCOM 7675Business Game: Practicing Strategy Globally (2)
This course aims to provide students with experience and top management vision, while validating and assessing the necessity of proven business management tools. The course provides the experience of managing an organization in a rapidly moving, competitive environment. The business simulation is an interactive experience integrating business administration's and strategic management's most relevant concepts.
GCOM 7676Researching & Writing a Global Business Thesis II (5)
This course involves the research and completion of a written thesis on an approved global business topic and culminates in a formal thesis defense.
GCOM 7677Negotiation and Conflict Resolution in a Global Context (2)
This course builds on the Strategic Leadership course offered in the fall. It draws on insights from psychology and behavioral economics to explore negotiations and conflict management in organizational settings. The course's interactive format develops students' ability to negotiate strategically for individual and organizational success, and to handle conflict effectively in cross-cultural contexts.
GCOM 7700Introduction to Financial Services (2)
Introduction to Financial Services
GCOM 7710Corporate Valuation and Financing (3)
This course sharpens corporate valuation and corporate financing skills in a wide variety of cases and contexts. It is intended to extend the theoretical knowledge gained in financial management GCOM 7060 to numerous applied settings including mergers and acquisitions, initial public offerings, capital structure decisions, and leveraged buyout/private equity investments. Prerequisite: Restricted to MS in Commerce students.
GCOM 7720Financial Trading Analytics (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Teaches analytical consulting competencies focused on the fast-paced financial industry: 1) Process automation: automating repetitive tasks to increase individual productivity; 2) Financial business intelligence: accessing and manipulating information stored in organizational databases; 3) Financial Engineering: designing and implementing financial algorithms that make financial decisions. More at: http://webs.comm.virginia.edu/Grazioli/GComm7720
GCOM 7722Corporate Restructuring & Distressed Investing (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course familiarizes students with the restructuring of financially distressed firms and distressed investing. We analyze credit documents, model credit risk, and survey restructuring methods. Throughout, we consider credit and distressed debt as asset classes and develop techniques and models for investing in credit and distressed instruments.
GCOM 7730Mergers & Acquisitions, Private Equity, & Restructuring (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
GCOM 7730 explores three main topics: (1) mergers and acquisitions (2) non-distressed corporate restructurings in the form of leveraged buyouts and private equity and (3) distressed corporate restructuring/bankruptcy. The course is largely case-based and extends concepts and principles learned in GCOM 7060 and GCOM 7710 to practical applications. Students will additionally participate in two negotiation exercises during the term.
GCOM 7740Global Finance and Accounting (3)
The course explores how firms manage multinational operations. The course first sensitizes students to the challenges confronting global enterprises (e.g., culture, laws, etc.). Second, macroeconomic issues are explored (e.g., exchange rate determination). Third, we examines the nature & framework of international finance decisions (e.g., investing, financings, etc.). Fourth, the impact of differing accounting standards & tax laws are explored. Prerequisite: Restricted to Ernst and Young YMP students.
Course was offered Fall 2010, Fall 2009
GCOM 7750Asset Management (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course develops the concepts and tools needed to build and analyze investment portfolios for a wide range of investors including sovereign wealth funds (SWFs), pensions, endowments, family funds, high-net worth individuals, and even small investors taking into account a broad array of investing objectives. The course covers risk/return trade-offs and valuation in the equity, fixed income and derivative markets.
GCOM 7760Real Estate Investments and Analysis (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
Develops an analytical framework by which individuals and institutions can make real estate investment and financing decisions. Emphasizes theory, concept building, financial modeling, and practical real estate applications. Uses the case method to illustrate implementation of an analytical framework. Restricted to Graduate Commerce.
GCOM 7770Financial Analytics (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This class provides students with a deep understanding and hands-on experience with information technology in business settings: advanced Excel features, macros, pivot tables, SQL, databases. By the end of the class students will have developed and tested an Excel-based system to solve a complex business problem in a financial setting. More at http://webs.comm.virginia.edu/Grazioli/GCom7770 Restricted to MS Accounting students.
GCOM 7780Project Management (3)
This course covers the basic processes related to the effective management of projects including feasibility assessment, resource analysis, estimation of time, effort and cost, scheduling, team management, risk management, and implementation planning. The course is taught in the context of analyzing and managing the design of business processes in support of business strategy including business requirements analysis, process modeling, and design. Prerequisite: Restricted to Graduate Commerce students.
GCOM 7790Enterprise Architecture (4)
This course provides broad foundations for understanding how information technology delivers business value. The class covers knowledge of enterprise architectures, databases, business processes, and networks at a level of detail that is appropriate for IT managers. Students in GCOM 7790 will learn how to envision IT infrastructures and applications that meet the needs of the business enterprise and add economic value.
GCOM 7800Advanced Enterprise Architecture (4)
Building on the foundations in GCOM 7790, this class fosters insights into contemporary IT architecture trends. Topics include cybersecurity, cloud architectures, and emerging technologies. Students envision a business-value-adding digital innovation for a real-world business, describe their innovation by creating several architectural artifacts (e.g., process and information models), and present it to an audience of tech-savvy leaders.
GCOM 7810Strategic Management of IT (4)
GCOM 7810 develops an understanding of how to manage IT to create business value through a focus on strategy and finance. IT professionals must understand the specific kinds of value created by IT for their firm's end consumers, and how it in turn produces financial returns. By analyzing a firm's industry and its competitive position within that industry, students learn how to produce technologies that can impact the firm's competitive position.
GCOM 7820Advanced Strategic Management of IT (3)
GCOM 7820 is a continuation of GCOM 7810. This course will develop your skills in discovering, describing, and securing management support for new IT-based strategic initiatives. Students will become comfortable in the role of internal IT entrepreneur - someone who can see how developments in information technologies can open up new strategic possibilities for how their organizations compete, and who can package those ideas in compelling ways.
GCOM 7822Invest in Sustainable Future (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This interdisciplinary course explores four critical areas at the intersection of business and sustainability: 1) Climate Finance, 2) Conservation Finance, 3) Circular Economy and 4) ESG Investing. In addition to acquiring an understanding of these key sustainability challenges, participants will gain skill in applying analytical tools and techniques to the evaluation of sustainable investment opportunities.
GCOM 7829IT Project Budgeting and Cost Management (1)
This course is designed to enhance student knowledge of project budgeting and cost management. Students will be able to interpret and evaluate balance sheets, income statements, and revenue recognition in services contracts and use the knowledge you gain about budgeting and the budgeting process to communicate with financial decision makers.
Course was offered Fall 2020, Fall 2019
GCOM 7830IT Project Management (2)
The primary objective of this course is to provide a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for the effective management of IT projects. To this end, the course consists of seminars, workshops, and tutorials on contemporary tools and techniques. Students will work in teams to apply the concepts and tools covered in class by conducting a project retrospective.
GCOM 7831IT Product Management (5)
Offered
Spring 2025
The primary objective of this course is to provide a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for the effective management of IT products. To this end, the course consists of seminars, workshops, and tutorials on contemporary tools and techniques. Students apply the concepts and tools covered in class by completing a set of individual assignments and by working as a team to conduct a product design sprint.
GCOM 7832IT International Project Management (2)
The primary objective of this course is to provide a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for the effective management of IT projects. Through class discussions and readings, students will cover tools and techniques central to IT project management. Next, in teams, students will apply these tools and techniques to a real-world context by conducting a retrospective of an IT project in a foreign country.
GCOM 7840Innovation and Technology Management (4)
GCOM 7840 focuses on the necessary technological, financial, and organizational issues to consider when developing a business case around a transformational, IT-based strategic initiative. Projects of this sort can impact how an organization pursues its strategic goals, and in some cases may also suggest shifts in strategy to pursue new opportunities that are compatible with the firm's resources and capabilities.
GCOM 7850IT-Driven Organizational Transformation (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
"This course teaches the ""why"", the ""what"", and the ""how"" of digital transformation from the perspective of incumbent firms that are reinventing themselves to compete in the digital era. Students will learn about consumerization, democratization, datafication ad platformization, and how to drive a digital transformation journey. Teams of students will apply these ideas to a specific organization and help them plan their digital transformation."
GCOM 7860Digital Innovation (4)
Offered
Spring 2025
In this course, students will survey digital technologies that are changing products and services and the way we make decisions and run business operations. While specific topics vary from year to year, examples include new ways to manage data, business intelligence, AI, business analytics, multi-sided digital platforms, the Internet of Things, and the blockchain.
GCOM 7870Foundations of Global Commerce (3)
Offered
Spring 2025
This course exposes students to the international issues, business practices, and concerns in their respective global immersion location. Prerequisite: Restricted to MS in Commerce students.
GCOM 7871Regional Perspectives on Global Commerce (2)
GCOM 7871 is a continuation of GCOM 7870. Prerequisite: Restricted to M.S. Commerce students.
GCOM 7872Doing Business in East Asia (5)
This course focuses on doing business in China. Coursework consists of classroom instruction, corporate visits, and cultural experiences to help students better understand the global business environment and conducting business in China in particular.
GCOM 7873Doing Business in Europe (5)
This course focuses on doing business in Europe. Coursework consists of classroom instruction, corporate visits, and cultural experiences to help students better understand the global business environment and conducting business in Europe in particular.
GCOM 7874Doing Business in Latin America (5)
This course focuses on doing business in Latin America. Coursework consists of classroom instruction, corporate visits, and cultural experiences to help students better understand the global business environment and conducting business in Latin America in particular.
GCOM 7875Doing Business in Southeast Asia (5)
This course focuses on doing business in Southeast Asia. Coursework consists of classroom instruction, corporate visits, and cultural experiences to help students better understand the global business environment and conducting business in Southeast Asia in particular.
GCOM 7876Doing Business in India, the Middle East, and Africa (5)
This course focuses on doing business in India, the Middle East, and Africa. Coursework consists of classroom instruction, corporate visits, and cultural experiences to help students better understand the global business environment and conducting business in India, the Middle East, and Africa in particular. Prerequisite: M.S. in Commerce students only
Course was offered Spring 2018, Spring 2016
GCOM 7877Doing Business in the Middle East and India (5)
This course focuses on doing business in the Middle East and India. Coursework consists of classroom instruction, corporate visits, and cultural experiences to help students better understand the global business environment and conducting business in the Middle East and India in particular.
Course was offered Spring 2016, Summer 2015
GCOM 7878Doing Business in Africa & the Middle East (5)
This course focuses on doing business in Africa & the Middle East. Coursework consists of classroom instruction, corporate visits, and cultural experiences to help students better understand the global business environment and conducting business in Africa & the Middle East in particular.
GCOM 7879Doing Business in India, the Middle East & Asia (5)
This course focuses on doing business in India, the Middle East & Asia. Coursework consists of classroom instruction, corporate visits, and cultural experiences to help students better understand the global business environment and conducting business in India, the Middle East & Asia in particular.
GCOM 7880Global Immersion Experience (4)
Special Topics in International Business. Prerequisite: Restricted to MS in Commerce students.
GCOM 7881Doing Business in Oceania (5)
This course focuses on doing business in Oceania. Coursework consists of classroom instruction, corporate visits, and cultural experiences to help students better understand the global business environment.
Course was offered Spring 2018
GCOM 7890International Capstone Project (3)
International Capstone Project
GCOM 7993Independent Study and Supervised Research (1 - 9)
Offered
Spring 2025
Students taking this course will explore areas and issues of special interest that are not otherwise covered in the graduate curriculum. This course is offered at the discretion of the supervising professor.