Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Retail Management

The Bachelor of Arts in Retail Management at American Public University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for successful careers in the dynamic and competitive retail industry. This interdisciplinary degree combines foundational business principles with specialized knowledge in retail operations, merchandising, customer relationship management, and supply chain logistics. Throughout the program, students gain a deep understanding of consumer behavior, marketing strategies, and the technological innovations that are shaping modern retail environments. The curriculum is structured to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and practical expertise, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the challenges of the retail sector.

Students in the Retail Management BA program will explore key topics such as retail store management, e-commerce, retail analytics, branding, and sales techniques. The program emphasizes the importance of ethical practices, sustainability, and social responsibility within retail operations. Courses are designed with a hands-on approach, integrating case studies, real-world projects, and industry simulations to provide students with practical experience. The flexible online format allows students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments, making it accessible to a diverse range of learners.

In addition to core business courses, the program offers specialized classes that focus on emerging trends such as omnichannel retailing, digital marketing, and data-driven decision making. Students will develop skills in leadership, strategic planning, and customer service, which are essential for advancing in retail management roles. Opportunities for internships, networking with industry professionals, and participation in industry-related events further enhance the educational experience.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Retail Management will be prepared for a variety of career paths including retail store management, merchandising, buying, inventory control, marketing, and retail consultancy. They will possess the strategic insight and operational skills necessary to innovate and lead in the evolving world of retail. Whether starting their own retail business or advancing within established organizations, graduates will have the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed in this vibrant industry. This program aims to develop adaptable, forward-thinking professionals ready to make meaningful contributions to the retail sector both locally and internationally.

The Bachelor of Arts in Retail Management at American Public University is designed to prepare students for dynamic careers in the retail industry by providing a comprehensive understanding of retail operations, marketing strategies, supply chain management, and consumer behavior. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, equipping graduates to effectively manage retail environments, develop innovative sales strategies, and lead teams to achieve business objectives. Students will explore key topics such as retail merchandising, digital marketing, inventory control, customer service excellence, and retail technology. Coursework emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills necessary for success in fast-paced retail settings. Throughout the program, students engage in case studies, simulations, and projects that reflect real-world challenges faced by retail managers today. The curriculum also covers areas such as ethical practices in retail, sustainability, and the impact of e-commerce on traditional retail models. With a focus on current industry trends and technological advancements, the program prepares students to adapt to evolving retail landscapes and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped to pursue careers as retail managers, merchandising coordinators, sales strategists, and retail operations specialists. The program's flexible online format allows students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments, making it accessible to a diverse range of learners. Whether aiming to enhance their existing career or start a new path in retail management, students will gain valuable skills and knowledge that are directly applicable in today’s competitive retail industry.

The Bachelor of Arts in Retail Management at American Public University requires students to complete a total of approximately 120 semester credit hours to graduate. The program is designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge of retail business operations, management principles, marketing strategies, and customer relationship management. Students must fulfill general education requirements, including courses in English, mathematics, social sciences, natural sciences, and humanities, which typically amount to around 40-45 credits. In addition to general education, students must complete core courses focused on retail management topics such as Principles of Retailing, Retail Merchandise Buying, Retail Financial Management, Store Operations, and Supply Chain Management.

Beyond the core courses, the program includes specialized electives allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests within retail management, such as International Retailing, E-Commerce, and Retail Marketing Strategies. Practical experience components, such as case studies and applied projects, are incorporated into coursework to enhance real-world readiness. Students are also required to complete a capstone project that integrates learned concepts into a comprehensive retail management plan. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to develop skills in leadership, strategic planning, and digital technologies relevant to the retail industry.

The program emphasizes flexible online learning, allowing students to progress at their own pace, with assessments including quizzes, assignments, discussion participation, and examinations. To graduate, students must maintain a minimum overall GPA established by the university, typically around 2.0-2.5. The program also promotes professional development through internship opportunities and industry engagement activities, where available. Overall, the Retail Management bachelor’s program aims to prepare graduates for managerial roles within the retail sector by equipping them with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for success in today’s dynamic retail environment.

The Bachelor of Arts in Retail Management at American Public University offers various financing options to assist students in funding their education. Students can access federal financial aid programs, including Pell Grants and Federal Direct Loans, by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This allows eligible students to receive need-based grants and low-interest loans that can be used toward tuition and related costs. Additionally, students may qualify for state-sponsored financial aid programs, depending on their residency and state-specific grants and scholarships. American Public University also provides institutional scholarships based on merit, academic achievement, or financial need, which students can apply for through the university’s scholarship application process. Military members, veterans, and their families have access to specialized support and scholarships, including the DoD Tuition Assistance Program and various veteran benefits such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill. The university recommends exploring employer tuition reimbursement options, as many employers offer tuition benefits for employees pursuing undergraduate degrees. Students are encouraged to contact the university’s financial services department for personalized assistance and to understand the full scope of financing options available to them. Payment plans may also be available to spread out tuition payments throughout the semester, making higher education more affordable. The university’s website provides resources and guidance on managing education-related expenses, including budgeting tips and financial planning advice. The goal is to make higher education accessible and affordable for all students, ensuring they can complete their degrees without financial hardship.

Accreditation

American Public University is part of the American Public University System (APUS), which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The HLC accredits degree-granting institutions located in a 19-state region, and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (ED), and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

ED formally recognizes accrediting commissions that meet all federal standards, and CHEA extends recognition to accrediting bodies and their institutions that meet these established standards. Accreditation should be important to you because it determines a school’s eligibility for federal and state financial aid, and may influence acceptance of transfer credits and admission to accredited graduate schools.

In addition to our HLC accreditation, our B.S. in Nursing program, as well as many of our business programs, have obtained specialized accreditation from external accrediting organizations in these specific disciplines.

Credits and degrees earned through APUS may be recognized for promotion, assignment, and position qualification standards within the military, federal government, and private sector. For students transferring to other colleges, APUS credit is considered transfer-eligible based on its accreditation. However, APUS cannot guarantee that its credit will be accepted, as acceptance of credit is always the prerogative of the receiving institution.

Institutional Accreditation

This level of accreditation requires a significant amount of self-study and presentation of evidence to satisfy the demanding requirements of accrediting organizations. Obtaining accreditation with HLC demonstrates our focus on providing academic excellence and the best possible experience for our students.

As an accredited institution, our university is eligible to participate in federal educational entitlement programs such as military tuition assistance, government tuition reimbursement programs, the Department of Veterans Affairs GI Bill, and many corporate education assistance programs. In addition, APUS has been granted approval by the Department of Education to participate in Title IV Federal Student Aid Programs.

Specialized Accreditation

In addition to our HLC accreditation, our university has obtained specialized/programmatic accreditation through appropriate governing organizations for the specific academic programs listed below. The curriculum for these programs meets the higher standards required by these external accrediting organizations.

Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

B.S. in Nursing (RN to BSN)

CCNE is an autonomous accrediting agency, contributing to the improvement of the public's health. CCNE ensures the quality and integrity of baccalaureate, graduate, and residency programs in nursing. CCNE serves the public interest by assessing and identifying programs that engage in effective educational practices. As a voluntary, self-regulatory process, CCNE accreditation supports and encourages continuing self-assessment by nursing programs and supports continuing growth and improvement of collegiate professional education and post-baccalaureate nurse residency programs.

Council for Education for Public Health (CEPH)

At this time, our university is not accredited by CEPH, and our prior application for CEPH accreditation lapsed on January 1, 2013. However, the governing body of the CEPH, at its June 2013 meeting, formally approved our request to begin the accreditation process for our Master of Public Health program. The steps and timeline for the CEPH accreditation process are subject to modification, and there is no assurance that we (or any institution seeking accreditation) will achieve this accreditation.

Professional Recognition and Affiliation

Management

Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)

Sports and Health Sciences

American Sport Education Program (ASEP) (B.S.)

National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) (M.S.)

Information Systems Security

National Security Agency (NSA) - Information Assurance Courseware Evaluation (IACE)

Child and Family Development

National Council on Family Relations (NCFR)

School of Education, M.Ed. Teaching, M.Ed. Educational Leadership, M.Ed. School Counseling

WV state approved educator certification programs (WVDE)