The Binghamton University School of Management (SOM) is recognized as one of the nation’s premier public business schools, consistently ranked among the top 10 public business programs by Poets&Quants. Since 1976, the school has maintained prestigious AACSB accreditation for both its business and accounting programs. Known for its rigorous academic environment and high-value ROI, the SOM attracts elite students and transforms them into industry-ready leaders through a curriculum that balances technical proficiency with the “soft skills” of leadership, teamwork, and communication.
The school offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including BS degrees in Accounting and Business Administration, as well as MBA, MS Accounting, and PhD degrees. Students benefit from an experiential learning model that utilizes state-of-the-art facilities like the Zurack Trading Room, where they manage real-market portfolios using professional software. Beyond the classroom, SOM serves as a primary talent pipeline for the Big Four accounting firms and top-tier financial institutions, maintaining a reputation as the number one provider of new hires for PwC and EY in New York City.
The curriculum empowers students to specialize in high-demand sectors such as Finance, Business Analytics, Management Information Systems, Marketing, and Entrepreneurship, allowing students to align their academic trajectory with specific professional aspirations. Every program integrates analytics requirements to ensure graduates can navigate an economy increasingly shaped by digital disruption and AI. The School of Management distinguishes itself through a commitment to personalized professional development. From day one, students access hands-on career coaching and an intensive peer-to-peer mentoring framework that fosters a culture of collaborative success. This immersion extends to student-led organizations and prestigious case competitions, where students sharpen their strategic thinking. Supported by a dedicated alumni base and flagship programs like PwC Scholars and EY Student Leaders, graduates enter the workforce not just as applicants, but as seasoned young professionals.
SOM Undergraduate Program Information
Submit inquiries to:
- SOM Undergraduate Academic Advising
- somadvi@binghamton.edu
- 607-777-2316
The BS Accounting and BS Business administration programs are accredited by AACSB. Binghamton University’s School of Management (SOM) is one of five professional schools on campus. The BS Business Administration and BS Accounting programs focus on students developing a broad-based foundation in the key functional areas of business, yet provide enough flexiliby for students to specialize in particular disciplines of interest. When combined with the general education coursework all Binghamton University students complete in Harpur College of Arts and Sciences, SOM students graduate with a well-rounded understanding of the internal and external factors affecting strategic decision-making in organizations. Both the BS Business Administration and the BS Accounting programs ensure students learn the soft skills-such as teamwork and communication-and technical and analytic skills necessary to become leaders in an economy driven by disruption and innovation. The curriculum offerings are diverse; preparing students for professional careers as well as advanced academic work. As part of their graduation requirements, all undergraduate SOM students take a capstone course in management strategy.
The undergraduate accounting curriculum provides students with strong pre-professional training in the theory and practice of accounting. Accounting students also complete core business courses spanning the key disciplines of business and liberal arts general education requirements. The program serves students interested in careers in public and corporate accounting, as well as students who intend to pursue advanced studies in various graduate and professional schools.
The School of Management follows the academic policies described in the Binghamton University Academic Guide. School of Management students are expected to be familiar with, and abide by, the regulations in this section. All matriculated students follow the requirements for graduation listed in the Academic Guide current at the time they are admitted. However, undergraduate students who interrupt enrollments for three or more consecutive semesters are governed by the Academic Guide in effect when they are re-enrolled. Exceptions are made for students eligible to return to Binghamton who were forced to leave because of involuntary call to military service.
Program Load and Planning
Undergraduate students are considered full-time if they are registered for 12 credit hours or more. The maximum number of credits an SOM student may take, without an approved overload petition, is 18. First-semester freshman and transfer students cannot overload until they have a Binghamton GPA. Students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher (3.0 if they are in their final semester prior to graduation) may be approved for an overload of one course (up to 22 credit hours). Students with a GPA of 3.8 or higher (3.5 if they are in their final semester prior to graduation) may be approved for an overload of up to 24 credit hours. Overload requests are only considered after everyone in the same class year has had a chance to register. No exceptions are made to the GPA requirements.
School of Management students may drop below 12 credits without consent and be classified as part-time students. All students receiving financial aid should check with the Office of Financial Aid before dropping to part-time status because their action may affect aid eligibility.
Requirements for Degrees
To receive an SOM undergraduate degree, students must satisfactorily complete:
- At least 40 credits in residency, meaning courses taken at Binghamton University (SOM, gen eds, electives).
- At least 45 credits of upper-level (300-400) coursework. Cross-disciplinary study is encouraged.
- 50% of their coursework (63 credit hours) outside of SOM (e.g., Harpur College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Community and Public Affairs, the Decker School of Nursing, and the Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science).
- At least 50% of their management/business credits at Binghamton University.
Students must not be under any disciplinary action at the time of graduation. They must also pay or satisfactorily adjust all fees and bills.
General Education Requirements
All School of Management ndergraduate students are subject to the University’s General Education requirements.
SOM Writing Requirement
Undergraduate students enrolled in SOM may fulfill their writing requirement in one of four different ways:
- Complete two “composition” courses from within Harpur College or transfer equivalent courses from other colleges or universities. Composition courses carry a General Education indicator of “C”. One of these C courses serves to fulfill the General Education Composition requirement. The second “c” is a specific requirement for SOM undergraduate students.
- Complete two “joined” courses from within Harpur College or transfer equivalent courses from other colleges or universities. Joined courses carry a General Education indicator of “J”. These courses combine the Composition component with an Oral Communication component.
- Complete a combination of one “composition” course and one “joined” course from within Harpur College or transfer equivalent courses from other colleges or universities.
- Complete one “composition” OR “joined” course, AND two writing initative courses with a “W” attribute.
Independent Study, Teaching Practica and Internships
Undergraduate SOM Students may take a maximum of eight credits of independent study, internship and/or practicum in college teaching coursework in fulfillment of their degree requirements. The Pass/Fail grading option is the default grading option for internship and teaching practicum experiences in SOM. The Pass/Fail grading option may also available for independent study and readings and research courses, but only with consent of both the instructor and the school’s academic advising office.
Education Abroad Opportunities
Binghamton University currently sponsors over 50 education abroad and exchange programs in a wide variety of locations and sites Students interested in any of these programs should contact the Office of International Education and Global Initiatives.
SOM students are permitted to take up to two upper-level business courses while studying abroad from an AACSB- or EQUIS-accredited school. Students interested in studying for a time at a foreign university should first obtain approval from the SOM Undergraduate Academic Advising Office.
SOM international students who wish to study abroad in their home country are limited to taking one upper-level business course from an AACSB- or EQUIS-accredited school.
Grading System
When taking courses in other schools at Binghamton University, SOM students are permitted to take the grading option of those schools if they wish. They may also petition to be graded according to the SOM system. This requires both instructor and school approval. When SOM students earn grades in other schools at Binghamton University, they are entered into the student’s academic record and printed on transcripts as they are given.
The following are valid grades in SOM undergraduate courses:
- A, A-, B+, B, B-, C+, C, C-, D, F, W, WF and I.
School of Management students must meet all degree requirements under the letter grade option.
Non-SOM students (i.e., undergraduate students from other schools at Binghamton University) who register for SOM courses may petition their SOM instructor to be graded according to the grading system in the school in which they are enrolled.
All graduate students taking an undergraduate course in SOM are graded according to the grading policies of the Graduate School.
Pass/Fail Grading
The Pass/Fail grading option is the default grading option for internship and teaching practicum experiences in SOM. The Pass/Fail grading option may also available for independent study and readings and research courses, but only with consent of both the instructor and the school’s academic advising office.
SOM students who complete all of their academic work at Binghamton University are limited to 16 credits of “Pass”, “Satisfactory”, or similar grades in non-SOM coursework during their undergraduate degree work.
Undergraduate students who transfer from other institutions are limited to the equivalent of one “Pass/Satisfactory” grade for each year of attendance at Binghamton University.
Courses with a mandatory Pass/Fail grade option are excluded from these limits.
Incomplete Policy
Under extraordinary circumstances where a student has made substantial progress in a course, but has not been able to complete the end-of-the-semester assignments or final exams, instructors may temporarily submit a grade notation of Incomplete, which appears in grade reports as “I”, subject to departmental or school approval. A student may not carry more than eight credits of Incompletes at any time without the specific approval of the dean’s office.
Students must have a valid reason such as prolonged illness or other justifiable circumstance, in order to request an Incomplete. Factors such as if substantial progress in the course has been made by the student, the potential of the student to pass the course, and the reason for the request are evaluated by the course instructor when making a determination of if a student should be given the option of an Incomplete.
Students must work with their professor to construct a mutually agreed timeline for work to be completed before an incomplete grade notation is submitted. Prior to assigning an “incomplete”, the instructor must execute an academic contract with the student. The academic contract must:
- Be signed by the instructor and the student
- Specify clearly the work the student needs to do in order to complete the course and receive a grade
- Specify the dates by which each component of the work or deliverables must be turned in by the student to the instructor
- Specify any extenuating circumstances (e.g., sabattical)
- If applicable, include the signature of any additional instructor needed for successful completion of the course (signature should be obtained by the originating faculty member, not the student)
- Be turned in by the instructor to the SOM Academic Advising Office immediately after it is signed by both parties, along with the submission of the Incomplete grade
A grade of Incomplete must be removed and replaced with a permanent grade no later than the last day of classes of the semester following the one in which it was received; however, an instructor may set an earlier date for completion of the work. An Incomplete grade becomes a grade of “F” 72 hours after the last scheduled final in the next regular semester following the issuance of the Incomplete unless a change of grade is submitted by the instructor. It is the student’s responsibility to ascertain that the coursework has been completed according to the contract and that a new grade is submitted. An extension of this deadline must be approved by the instructor and the dean’s office, and is approved only in highly unusual circumstances. Contracts and other required forms may be obtained from the SOM Academic Advising Office by the instructor.
A grade of “I” does not satisfy a prerequisite for subsequent courses. If there is a need to satisfy a prerequisite, then either: (1) the student should resolve the incomplete grade before the subsequent course begins, or (2) a prerequisite waiver must be approved by the Undergraduate Academic Advising office and documented prior to the start of the subsequent course. This waiver can be based only on work completed before the subsequent course begins.
Appeal of Final Grade
Students seeking to appeal a final grade must first try to resolve the issue with the instructor issuing the grade, before appealing to the Assistant Dean of SOM. Appeals are only considered by the Assistant Dean when they meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Instructor violated the terms of the syllabus
- Instructor made an error in calculating or recording a grade
- Instructor violated a University policy when they gave assignments, administered exams or assigned grades
- Instructor applied an inconsistent grading standard across students
- Instructor did not allow the student to complete assignments or exams missed before the student added the course
- Instructor violated a written agreement with the student
Students may appeal their final grade by contacting the Assistant Dean and requesting the final grade appeal form.
It is the student’s responsibility to initiate an appeal of final grade as soon as possible to allow reasonable time for resolution.
Grade changes for fall semester courses should be completed by the end of the second week of classes in the spring semester and changes for spring semester courses should be completed within four weeks of spring Commencement. No changes can be made to a student record after the degree has been conferred.
Withdrawal Policy
SOM Course Withdrawal Prior to Add/Drop Deadline
Students may withdraw from a course without restriction and with no recorded grade until the end of the second week of class. If a course withdrawal is submitted and processed prior to the semester add/drop deadline, the course will be deleted and not marked with a “W” on the student’s transcript; no grades are recorded for students who formally withdraw before the add/drop deadline.
SOM Course Withdrawal After the Add/Drop Deadline
Under extraordinary circumstances, a student may petition a late withdrawal. Poor class performance and/or poor judgment are not considered appropriate reasons for a late withdrawal. Requests for late withdrawals are subject to the approval of the instructor, SOM Undergraduate Advising and the school. Both of the following are to be submitted for consideration:
- A complete description of the extenuating circumstance beyond their control that occured after the withdrawal deadline
- Accompanying official documentation (letters, incidence reports, etc.)
Both of the above are mandatory. Petitions for late withdrawals should be submitted to the Director of Undergraduate Academic Advising, who will review them with the respective instructor and obtain final approval from the SOM Dean’s Office. A request must be received by the Undergraduate Academic Advising Office by the last day of classes in the current semester of the course. It is against SOM policy to permit course withdrawal from prior semesters.
As indicated in the University records and registrar regulations, the action of a course withdrawal is noted on a student’s record as an Official Withrawal and, in place of a regular grade, the course will show a “W” on the student’s transcript.
University Semester Withdrawal
For a semester withdrawal, students should refer to the “Absences, Withdrawal, and Readmission” section of the Academic Guide which outlines the University policy.
Students may withdraw from courses without restriction and with no recorded grade until the end of the second week of class. If a semester withdrawal is submitted and processed prior to the semester add/drop deadline, all courses will be deleted and not marked with a “W” on a student’s transcript; no grades are recorded for students who formally withdraw from the University before the add/drop deadline. After the add/drop deadline the action of a semester withdrawal is noted on a student’s record as an Official Withdrawal and, in place of a regular grade, all courses will have a “W” on the student’s transcript
Students who withdraw from the University must follow a formal withdrawal procedure. Mere absence from class does not constitute due notice of withdrawal.
Withdrawal applications may be obtained from the SOM Academic Advising Office. When students withdraw entirely from SOM, and also simultaneously withdraw from all courses for which they are registered, there is no academic penalty associated with the withdrawal from courses.
Formal re-admission is necessary for any student who has not been in attendance for three or more semesters. Students who officially withdraw during the regular academic year are eligible to register for the next academic semester without requesting formal re-admission.
For additional information, students should consult the full semester withdrawal procedures provided by the University Registrar.
Repeating Courses
Under certain circumstances students may repeat a course in which a passing grade was earned; however, only the first passing grade counts in the grade point average. Both grades are displayed on the transcript, with the second passing grade noted as a repeated course. The repeated course counts toward full-time enrollment for the semester. As students make their decisions about repeating courses, they should consult the Undgraduate Academic Advising office for guidance.
When students repeat a course, whether due to a failing grade or to receive a better grade, those credits will be counted as attempted for purposes of Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) and federal aid calculations to determine rate of completion and maximum time frame rules. Refer to the financial aid website for additional information.
Repeated courses may not count toward full-time enrollment for NY state aid (TAP) unless the first attempt was failed or a higher grade is required for the major.
Major Declaration
School of Management students who wish to declare/change their major must receive approval from the Undergraduate Academic Advising office (approved SOM Major/Concentration Declaration Form).
Concentration Declaration
BS Business Administration Majors
In order to declare a concentration, Business Administration students must meet the following requirements:
- Business Analytics - B- or better in CQS 312, 56 completed credits, 3.5 cumulative GPA
- Entrepreneurship - B- or better in MKTG 311
- Finance - B- or better in FIN 311
- Management Information Systems - B- or better in MIS 311
- Marketing - B- or better in MKTG 311
- Quantitative Finance - B or better in FIN 311, 56 completed credits, 3.5 cumulative GPA
BS Accounting Majors
In order to declare a concentration, Accounting students must meet the following requirements:
- 3.7 cumulative GPA
- Business Analytics - B- or better in CQS 312, 56 completed credits, 3.5 cumulative GPA
- Entrepreneurship - B- or better in MKTG 311
- Finance - B- or better in FIN 311
- Management Information Systems - B- or better in MIS 311
- Marketing - B- or better in MKTG 311
- Quantitative Finance - B or better in FIN 311, 56 completed credits, 3.5 cumulative GPA
Transfer of Credit - Matriculated Students
For complete transfer credit guidelines, please review the “Academic Policies and Procedures for Undergraduate Students” section of the Academic Guide.
To receive an SOM undergraduate degree, students must satisfactorily complete:
- At least 40 credits in residency, meaning courses taken at Binghamton University (SOM, gen eds, electives).
- At least 50% of their management/business credits at Binghamton University.
Once students are matriculated at Binghamton University in the School of Management, they may obtain credit toward graduation for courses taken at other institutions.
- Evaluations of transfer credit for matriculated students are completed in the SOM Undergraduate Academic Advising Office.
- Grades received at another institution do not count toward the Binghamton University grade point average.
- Before taking any courses elsewhere, students should submit a “Petition to Take Courses at Another Institution” form to the SOM Undergraduate Academic Advising Office for prior approval.
Credits may be transferred only if the School of Management student receives a grade of C or better.
Transferred credits are adjusted when the credit system at the other institution is different (e.g., credits taken under a quarter system rather than a semester system are transferred to Binghamton at two-thirds of their quarter-credit value).
Students interested in studying for a time at a foreign university should first obtain approval from the SOM Undergraduate Academic Advising Office.
Academic Standing
Students’ academic progress is reviewed at the end of each regular semester to ensure that satisfactory progress is maintained. To remain in good academic standing, students are required to maintain a minimum cumulative grade-point average of 2.0. Students must also maintain a 2.0 minimum SOM GPA. The SOM GPA will be calculated only after 12 credits of SOM coursework has been completed. The GPA is calculated on a 4.0 system using the following grade-point equivalents:
A = 4.0 A- = 3.7 B+ = 3.3 B = 3.0 B- = 2.7
C+ = 2.3 C = 2.0 C- = 1.7 D = 1.0 F = 0.0
P, AU and W notations generate no grade points and are not included in the GPA calculation.
Academic Probation
Students who fail to meet a cumulative GPA and/or SOM GPA of 2.0. but have cumulative GPAs above the Academic Dismissal Index (see below) will be placed on academic probation.
- Students on probation have a maximumm of two full-time semester to raise their cumulative GPA to a 2.0 level or better.
- Students who fail to raise their cumulative GPA in two semester will be asked to sign an academic contract or be dismissed (see next section).
- Students on academic probation are encouraged to utilize University resources including, but not limited to, Success Coaching offered by the Student Success and Transition Office, University Tutorial Services, Academic Advising and/or the University Counseling Center.
Academic probation does not preclude a student from receiving financial aid or registering for classes. Standards for financial aid eligibility are described in the Financial Aid section of the academic guide.
Academic Contracts
Students will be asked to sign an academic contract if
- Their cumulative GPA falls below the Academic Dismissal Index (see below).
- Their cumulative GPA has remained below 2.0 for two consecutive semesters.
- They are currently on probation and receive a term GPA below 2.0.
The academic contract will be sent to the student via their Binghamton University email address and to the permanent mailing address on record for the student. Failure to agree to the terms of the contract (by signing and returning the contract to the SOM academic advising professional staff) within the time dictated in the contract will result in permanent dismissal from Binghamton University.
If a student formally withdraws from the University in the semester they are on contract, they will be held to the conditions of the signed contract in the semester they elect to return to the University.
Dismissal
Students will be dismissed from Binghamton University for one of two reasons:
- The student fails to meet the terms of the signed academic contract.
- The student meets the academic contract requirements, but has a cumulative or SOM GPA below a 2.0 in subsequent semesters.
A student who has been dismissed for academic reasons for the first time may apply for re-admission. Re-admission is not automatic. Only in rare cases will re-admission may be granted. The school has the discretion to refuse re-admission and to ask the student to meet additional contingencies. If re-admission is approved, students will only be re-admitted after signing a re-admission contract.
Failure to achieve the level of performance indicated in the academic contract, or to earn a GPA of 2.0 or higher in future academic semesters, will result in a final dismissal with no opportunity for re-admission.
Dismissal Appeal
A student may petition the Office of the Dean of the School of Management regarding their academic standing.
Academic Dismissal Index
| Credits Completed (including advanced minimum standing) |
Cumulative GPA |
| 1-34 |
1.440 |
| 35-51 |
1.625 |
| 52-68 |
1.715 |
| 69-85 |
1.800 |
| 86-102 |
1.875 |
| 103-119 |
1.950 |
| 120+ |
2.000 |
Transcripts
The Registrar’s Office maintains a single transcript for all Binghamton University students, which serves both internal and external purposes. Externally, it is the official record of the student’s performance and is forwarded to prospective employers and graduate schools. Internally, in conjunction with a degree audit report, it is used by the University for administrative and academic advising purposes.
The following reflects SOM’s policy on transcripts:
- The semester and cumulative grade-point averages recorded on the transcript are based on the student’s academic work in all units of Binghamton University.
- All grades are recorded on the student’s transcript as they are received in courses.
Graduation Honors
Binghamtonn University awards graduation honors based on cumulative GPA for the student’s entire academic career at Binghamton University. College-wide honors are as follows:
- 3.50 - 3.69 GPA: cum laude
- 3.70 - 3.84 GPA: magna cum laude
- 3.85 - 4.00 GPA: summa cum laude
Students who have entered Binghamton University after completing a portion of their degree requirements at another institution must present cumulative GPAs of at least 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale) for all coursework taken at other institutions, and must complete at least 60 credits in residence at Binghamton University, with GPA equivalent to those specified above, in order to be eligible for graduation honors.
Dean’s List
Full-time SOM students who have earned a 3.75 GPA or higher earn the distinction of being noted on the School of Management Dean’s List. Students must have complete 14 or more graded credits.
SOM Honors Programs
PwC Scholars Program
The PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Scholars Program is focused on developing future leaders through academic excellence, professional development, community service/fundraising and unique networking opportunities. PwC Scholars augment the normal SOM curriculum with additional requirements geared towards preparing them to excel in their careers. Completion of the PwC Scholars Program is noted on the student’s official transcript and through a PwC Scholars Program Certificate issued by SOM.
Admission
Admission to the program is competitive. Select students entering their first (freshmen) year of undergraduate work at Binghamton University are invited to enroll in the PwC Scholars program following their acceptance into the School of Management. Current SOM students may apply to join the Scholars program during the second semester of their freshmen year (for admission into the program at the beginning of their sophomore year). Current students may only apply if they have a 3.6 cumulative GPA or higher.
In order for PwC Scholars to remain in good standing in the program they must:
- Maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.6
- Maintain a clean academic record, with no violations of the University Code of Student Conduct and the Binghamton University Student Academic Honesty Code
- Pass the PwC Scholars seminar courses assigned to each semester they are enrolled in the PwC Scholars Program
- Pass MGMT 251 - Sophomore Experience (1 credit)
- Pass MGMT 350 - Community Project (2 credits)
- Complete three C or J gen ed courses (all SOM undergraduates must complete two C or J gen eds)
BS Business Administration PwC Scholars must also complete one of the following:
- At least two concentrations in SOM (traditional BSBA students are only required to pursue one), or
- A minor outside of SOM, or
- A double major (with an SOM degree counting as one), or
- One additional experiential (i.e., project based) learning course as approved by the program director.
BS Accounting PwC Scholars must also complete cone of the following:
- At least one concentration in SOM (traditional BSACCT students are not required to pursue a concentration), or
- A minor outside of SOM, or
- A double major (with an SOM degree counting as one), or
- One additional experiential (i.e., project based) learning course as approved by the program director.
While it is not required, it is expected that many of the participants in the PwC Scholars Program will have earned college credit prior to their enrollment at Binghamton University. These credits may partially or fully offset the additional credit requirements.
Probation and Dismissal
Scholars with less than a 3.6 cumulative GPA will be considered on probation beginning in the semester (fall/spring) immediately following their cumulative GPA falling below 3.6.
- If at the end of the first semester on probation a PwC Scholars cumulative GPA increases to 3.6 or above, the Scholar is no longer considered to be on probation
- If at the end of the first semester on probation the PwC Scholars cumulative GPA AND semester GPA is below 3.6, the student will be dismissed from the PwC Scholars Program
- If at the end of the first semester on probation the PwC Scholars cumulative GPA is below 3.6, but the semester GPA is a 3.6 or higher, they will remain on probation for one additional semester
- If at the end of the second semester of academic probation the PwC Scholar’s cumulative GPA is a 3.6 or higher, the Scholar will no longer be on probation
- If at the end of the second semester of academic probation the PwC Scholar’s cumulative GPA is below a 3.6, the student will be dismissed from the PwC Scholars Program
PwC Scholars found to be in violation of the Binghamton University Academic Honesty Policy will be dismissed from the PwC Scholars Program. PwC Scholars found to be in violation of the Binghamton University Student Code of Conduct may be dismissed from the program depending on the nature and severity of the violation.
Scholars’ coursework may also be counted toward the traditional SOM degrees, therefore discontinuation of participation in the program does not normally result in additional coursework requirements or delay the completion of a degree program in the School of Management.
EY Student Leaders Program
The EY Leaders Program is intended to recognize and provide opportunities for emerging leaders. The program focuses on developing transformative leaders with a focus on technology and innovation. The emphasis is on statistical and data-driven decision making, data visualization, programming, modeling, machine learning, and other advanced analytic methods. Students will develop a mindset to analyze, innovate and think and act globally. Completion of the EY Leaders Program is noted on the student’s official transcript and through a certificate issued by SOM.
Admission
Admission to the program is competitive. Select students entering their first (freshmen) year of undergraduate work at Binghamton University are invited to enroll in the EY Student Leaders program following their acceptance into the School of Management. Current SOM students in their first or second-year of undergraduate work at Binghamton University will have the opportunity to apply for admission into the program in the Spring semester (for admission the following Fall). Current students may only apply if they have a 3.6 cumulative GPA or higher.
In order for EY Student Leaders to remain in good standing in the program, they must:
- Maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.6.
- Maintain a clean academic record, with no violations of the University Code of Student Conduct and the Binghamton University Student Academic Honesty Code.
- Pass the EY Student Leaders seminar courses assigned to each semester they are enrolled in the EY Student Leaders program.
- Pass MGMT 261 - Leadership Training (1 credit)
- Pass MGMT 360 - Analytics Project (2 credits)
- Complete three C or J gen ed courses (all SOM undergraduates must complete two C or J gen eds).
BS Business Administration EY Student Leaders must also complete one of the following:
- At least two concentrations in SOM (traditional BSBA students are only required to pursue one), or
- (8) additional technical course credits as defined by the DegreeWorks audit. This additional coursework may include independent studies or courses not listed on the DegreeWorks audit with the approval of the program director.
BS Accounting EY Student Leaders must also complete cone of the following:
- At least one concentration in SOM (traditional BSACCT students are not required to pursue a concentration), or
- (8) additional technical course credits as defined by the DegreeWorks audit. This additional coursework may include independent studies or courses not listed on the DegreeWorks audit with the approval of the program director.
Probation and Dismissal
EY Student Leaders with less than a 3.6 cumulative GPA will be considered on probation beginning in the semester (fall/spring) immediately following their cumulative GPA falling below 3.6.
- If at the end of the first semester on probation a EY Student Leaders cumulative GPA increases to 3.6 or above, the Scholar is no longer considered to be on probation.
- If at the end of the first semester on probation the EY Student Leaders cumulative GPA AND semester GPA is below 3.6, the student will be dismissed from the EY Student Leaders Program.
- If at the end of the first semester on probation the EY Student Leaders cumulative GPA is below 3.6, but the semester GPA is a 3.6 or higher, they will remain on probation for one additional semester.
- If at the end of the second semester of academic probation the EY Students Leaders cumulative GPA is a 3.6 or higher, the Scholar will no longer be on probation.
- If at the end of the second semester of academic probation the EY Student Leaders cumulative GPA is below a 3.6, the student will be dismissed from the EY Student Leaders Program.
EY Student Leaders found to be in violation of the Binghamton University Academic Honesty Policy will be dismissed from the EY Student Leaders Program. EY Student Leaders found to be in violation of the Binghamton University Student Code of Conduct may be dismissed from the program depending on the nature and severity of the violation.
EY Student Leaders coursework may also be counted toward the traditional SOM degrees, therefore discontinuation of participation in the program does not normally result in additional coursework requirements or delay the completion of a degree program in the School of Management.
Transformational Leaders Program
The nationally recognized Transformational Leaders Program is designed to promote successful professional trajectories for students who have overcome adversity or face barriers to being in higher education by providing unique personal, academic, and career development opportunities tailored to individual needs. With a focus on both short- and long-term goals, students are guided through several levels of leadership development, and are equipped with the skills to become impactful leaders on campus and within their communities.
Admission
Students entering their first year of undergraduate work at Binghamton University (entering freshmen or transfer students) are invited to apply for the TLP program following their acceptance into the School of Management. Current SOM students in their first or second year of study may also apply for admission.
The three-year program provides:
- An environment for students to grow and thrive.
- Customized services and mentorship opportunities to enhance personal growth, decision-making skills, and awareness of civic responsibility.
- Experiential opportunities to develop leadership skills and abilities through instruction, workshops and training.
- A rich undergraduate experience that allows students to explore different career paths and potential graduate school options.
In order for TLP students to remain in good standing in the program they must:
- Maintain a clean academic record, with no violations of the University Code of Student Conduct and the Binghamton University Student Academic Honesty Code.
- Pass LEAD 280A - Intro. to Transformational Leadership I (2 credits)
- Pass LEAD 280B - Intro. to Transformational Leadership I (2 credits)
- Attend regular mentor meetings with the TLP staff.
- Participate in regularly scheduled TLP programming and events.
EY Student Leaders coursework may also be counted toward the traditional SOM degrees, therefore discontinuation of participation in the program does not normally result in additional coursework requirements or delay the completion of a degree program in the School of Management.
Undergraduate Admissions
The procedure for applying for admission to the School of Management as either first-year or transfer student is the same as for other schools at the University. Specific information may be found in the Admissions section of the Academic Guide.
Transfer Students
In order to maximize credit transfer, students who have taken two years of undergraduate education at another college or university, and who wish to transfer into the School of Management for their junior and senior years, should have concentrated their first two years of academic work in arts and sciences courses (attaining at least 30 hours of credit in such subjects with grades of C or better).
- The student’s first two years of education should consist of work in the following areas: English and literature (including at least one course in compositional techniques); economics (including one course each in microeconomic and macroeconomic theory); mathematics (including at least one course in calculus); and elective coursework in the humanities, social sciences and natural sciences - with special attention to courses that fulfill the University’s General Education requirements.
- Students may also choose to further supplement their first two years of undergraduate education with courses in the principles of financial accounting, statistics and business law. Such courses are an important foundation for the professional coursework that composes the School of Management student’s final two years of study. Students whose two-year curriculum closely follows the pattern above will have completed coursework that maintains the course sequence adhered to by School of Management students during their first and sophomore years.
- Transfer students who have taken an introduction to management course AND an excel based course at their previous institution(s) will be awarded credit for MGMT 111 - Introduction to Decision Making in Management. Nonetheless, these transfer students must take a zero-credit MGMT 211 - Transfer Career Seminar offered by the School of Management.
While students are able to transfer courses and/or credit for the specific business administration and accounting courses indicated above, in accordance with the school’s transfer credit policy, transfer credit for upper-division accounting and business administration coursework is not granted without ample evidence of its basic equivalency to analogous coursework taught in the School of Management. The only exception is if the courses are taken at an AACSB-accredited business program during the student’s junior or senior year of study. Thus, students completing upper-division accounting and business administration coursework as part of their first or second years of study must formally “validate” all such courses for which transfer credit is requested. This generally requires (at minimum) completion of a detailed proficiency examination in each course area for which transfer credit is requested. The coverage of such examinations is based on the appropriate coursework as it is taught in the School of Management.
Although most transfer students have completed two years of college work, students may be accepted for transfer at any time during their college careers, if space permits.
- School of Management admission is highly competitive.
- Admission is granted primarily on the basis of academic proficiency in appropriate courses.
- Candidates generally need above a 3.2 average GPA for admission.
- Advanced-standing credit is generally granted for all work comparable to that offered by Binghamton University.
- Up to 16 hours of free elective credit may be granted for courses not comparable to any offered by Binghamton University, provided that the work was theoretical/analytical rather than applied in nature. Courses falling within this category may not include business or accounting courses.
- Advanced standing is not granted for courses completed with a grade lower than C.
Master’s Program Information
Submit master’s program inquiries to:
- SOM Master’s Program Admission and Student Services
- somgrad@binghamton.edu
- 607-777-5746
The following master’s degrees are offered by the School of Management:
- MS Accounting
- MS Accounting 4+1
- Four-Semester STEM MBA
- One-Year STEM MBA (for non-business majors)
- One-Year STEM MBA (for business majors)
- SOM/STEM MBA 4+1
- Harpur/STEM MBA 4+1
- Watson/STEM MBA 4+1
- PharmD-STEM MBA dual degree
The following graduate certificate is offered by the School of Management in conjunction with Watson College:
- Biomanufacturing Project Management Advanced Certificate
The School of Management (SOM) offers graduate programs designed to transform high-potential students into data-driven, strategic leaders ready for the complexities of the global marketplace. With AACSB-accredited offerings including the Master of Business Administration (MBA) and the Master of Science in Accounting, the graduate curriculum moves beyond foundational concepts to focus on high-level analytical rigor and executive decision-making.
The STEM-designated MBA integrates core coursework in functional business areas with a heavy emphasis on data analytics. The curriculum is intentionally flexible, weaving elective requirements throughout the program to allow students the freedom to explore diverse interests or pursue specialized fields. For those entering the financial sector, the MS in Accounting provides intensive training in public and management accounting.
School of Management graduate students are expected to follow the academic policies and procedures set forth by the Graduate School, as well as their academic department or school. For Graduate School academic policies and procedures, please refer to the Academic Policies and Procedures for Graduate Students section of the Academic Guide. Graduate students must also be familiar with the policies and procedures established by their academic department or school.
Program Load and Planning
Graduate students are considered full-time if they are registered for 12 credit hours or more. Approval for an overload is required for anyone outside of the One-Year MBA (for non-business majors) who wishes to take over 16 credits. There is a maximum of 20 credits that a student can take in any given semester.
Students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher (3.0 if they are in their final semester prior to graduation) may be approved for an overload of up to 20 credit hours. Overload requests are only considered after everyone in the same class year has had a chance to register. No exceptions are made to the GPA requirements.
Internships
Students may earn up to four credits for an approved internship to fulfill free elective requirements. These credits do not satisfy concentration or technical requirements. A maximum of four internship credits can be applied toward a degree, with a cumulative limit of eight credits combined from internships, teaching assistantships, and independent studies.
Eligibility and Deadlines
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All internships must be approved via a formal application before the start of the internship and no later than the semester’s add/drop deadline.
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To receive academic credit during the fall or spring semesters, the internship must be unpaid. Students may receive credit for paid internships during the summer or winter terms only.
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Students must complete a minimum of 180 hours for four credit hours. This typically requires 12 hours per week for 15 weeks (Fall/Spring) or 18 hours per week for 10 weeks (Summer).
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The internship must be business-related, involve responsibilities that contribute to professional growth, and take place at a company with at least five professionals. All required deliverables must be submitted at the conclusion of the experience.
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Credit-bearing internships do not earn a letter grade; they are graded Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory.
Program-Specific Requirements
For certain programs, such as the Harpur/MBA 4+1 and the Four-Semester Full-Time MBA, a completed internship is a mandatory degree requirement. Students in these programs may fulfill this requirement for-credit or not-for-credit after completing the first year of their curriculum. For all other programs, internship credits serve as optional free electives.
For-Credit Teaching Assistantships
Teaching Assistant (TA) opportunities are typically announced via the department’s listserv. Students selected for a for-credit TA position must collaborate with their faculty supervisor to complete the required online approval form.
Registration and Credit Limits
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Once the application is approved, the Graduate Advising Office will register the student for up to two credits per semester.
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A maximum of four credits from TA positions may count toward overall degree requirements.
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Students may apply a combined total of eight credits toward their degree from internships, TA opportunities, and independent studies.
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TA credits serve as free electives only; they do not satisfy concentration or technical requirements.
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Credit-bearing TA positions do not earn a letter grade; they are graded Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory.
Independent Study
Independent study opportunities typically arise when a faculty member requires research assistance or wishes to explore a specialized topic with a student. These opportunities are initiated by the faculty; if a professor is seeking a student for an independent study, they will reach out directly to discuss enrollment.
Enrollment and Academic Credit
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Once a faculty member has approved your participation, you must obtain and complete the required enrollment form from the SOM Graduate Advising Office.
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A maximum of four credits of independent study may be applied toward your degree requirements.
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Independent study credits serve as free electives and cannot be used to fulfill concentration or technical degree requirements.
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A maximum of eight credits total may be applied toward your degree from a combination of internships, for-credit TA opportunities, and independent studies.
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Credit-bearing independent studies do not earn a letter grade; they are graded Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory (unless approved through the SOM Dean’s office).
Grading System
The following are valid grades in SOM graduate courses:
- A, A-, B+, B, B-, C+, C, C-, F, W, WF and I.
School of Management students must meet all degree requirements under the letter grade option.
Appeal of Final Grade
Students seeking to appeal a final grade must first try to resolve the issue with the instructor issuing the grade, before appealing to the Assistant Dean of SOM. Appeals are only considered by the Assistant Dean when they meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Instructor violated the terms of the syllabus
- Instructor made an error in calculating or recording a grade
- Instructor violated a University policy when they gave assignments, administered exams or assigned grades
- Instructor applied an inconsistent grading standard across students
- Instructor did not allow the student to complete assignments or exams missed before the student added the course
- Instructor violated a written agreement with the student
Students may appeal their final grade by contacting the Assistant Dean and requesting the final grade appeal form.
It is the student’s responsibility to initiate an appeal of final grade as soon as possible to allow reasonable time for resolution.
Grade changes for fall semester courses should be completed by the end of the second week of classes in the spring semester and changes for spring semester courses should be completed within four weeks of spring Commencement. No changes can be made to a student record after the degree has been conferred.
Course Withdrawal Policy
SOM Course Withdrawal Prior to Add/Drop Deadline
Students may withdraw from a course without restriction and with no recorded grade until the add/drop deadline. If a course withdrawal is submitted and processed prior to the semester add/drop deadline, the course will be deleted and not marked with a “W” on the student’s transcript; no grades are recorded for students who formally withdraw before the add/drop deadline.
SOM Course Withdrawal After the Add/Drop Deadline
Under extraordinary circumstances, a student may petition a late withdrawal. Poor class performance and/or poor judgment are not considered appropriate reasons for a late withdrawal. Requests for late withdrawals are subject to the approval of the instructor, SOM Graduate Admissions and Advising office, and the school. Both of the following are to be submitted for consideration:
- A complete description of the extenuating circumstance beyond their control that occured after the withdrawal deadline
- Accompanying official documentation (letters, incidence reports, etc.)
Both of the above are mandatory. Petitions for late withdrawals should be submitted to the Director of Master’s Program Recruitment and Student Services, who will review them with the respective instructor and obtain final approval from the SOM Dean’s Office. A request must be received by the Master’s Program Recruitment and Student Services Office by the last day of classes in the current semester of the course. It is against SOM policy to permit course withdrawal from prior semesters.
As indicated in the University records and registrar regulations, the action of a course withdrawal is noted on a student’s record as an Official Withrawal and, in place of a regular grade, the course will show a “W” on the student’s transcript.
Course Waivers
Students may request course waiver(s) based on coursework completed during their time as an undergraduate student. Available course waivers include statistics, economics, essentials of programming, and programming for business analytics. Approval is required through an online form where students must submit their transcripts and syllabi for the class to be waived. In some circumstances, a waived course will need to be replaced by another class.
Transfer Credits
Students may petition to transfer a maximum of eight elective credits from another AACSB-accredited institution. Please note that core courses are not eligible for transfer; only elective requirements may be fulfilled this way. Students must obtain written permission from the Graduate Director before enrolling in the outside course. The student must earn a grade of B or higher. Credits must not have been used previously to satisfy the requirements of another degree. The transferred class(es) will appear on your transcript but will not be calculated into your Binghamton GPA.
Phd Program Information
Submit PhD program inquiries to:
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SOM PhD Program
- cwalker5@binghamton.edu
- 607-777-2012
The following master’s degrees are offered by the School of Management:
- PHD Management: Finance
- PHD Management: Leadership and Organizational Science
- PHD Management: Marketing
- PHD Management: Management Information Systems
The STEM-designated PhD in Management at the School of Management is an intensive, full-time doctoral program designed to prepare scholars for high-impact careers in academia and advanced research. With a commitment to one-on-one faculty mentorship and a low student-to-teacher ratio, doctoral candidates work alongside world-class faculty to produce original empirical research, present at national conferences, and publish in top-tier academic journals. The curriculum balances rigorous training in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies with specialized seminars and a dedicated pedagogy course to develop effective educators. Supported by full tuition scholarships and competitive assistantships, SOM doctoral graduates enter the global academic market as seasoned researchers equipped to contribute to the advancement of business theory and practice.
Academic Policies
School of Management graduate students are expected to follow the academic policies and procedures set forth by the Graduate School, as well as their academic department or school. For Graduate School academic policies and procedures, refer to the Graduate School Manual or to the Academic Policies and Procedures for Graduate Students section of the Academic Guide. Graduate students must also be familiar with the policies and procedures established by their academic department or school.
Please visit the PhD program page of the academic guide for additional information about degree requirements.
Admission to Graduate Programs
Prospective students should visit the Graduate School website to review admission requirements, check deadlines, review cost and funding information, arrange a visit, and to apply using the online application.
Below you will find information for all of the School of Management’s academic programs.
