MS in Human Environmental Sciences (Consumer Quality Management)

About CQM

Prepare yourself to become a quality management leader by earning your Master of Science in Human Environmental Sciences (Consumer Quality Management) from The University of Alabama. The CQM area of study will provide you with a comprehensive study of the facilitation skills necessary to lead an organization in continuous improvement.

This 30-hour program is offered completely online to make earning a degree convenient for working adults. If you currently work or would like to work in quality management and would like to develop a deeper understanding of the field, this degree program can help you reach your goals.

As a graduate of this program, you will hold a degree from one of the top universities in the nation. Your courses will be taught by the same world-class faculty members who teach on campus.

Curriculum

Core Courses
  • CSM 506: Consumer Management Quality Assurance
  • CSM 507: Consumer Quality Management Facilitation Skills
  • CSM 508: Consumer Quality Management Systems
  • CSM 511: Building Employee Engagement
  • CSM 512: Analysis in Quality Control
  • CSM 590: CQM Capstone
Electives: Select Three with Advisor 
  • CSM 515: Customer Service
  • CSM 525: Consumer Conflict Resolution
  • CSM 537: Developing the Leader Within
  • CSM 561: Managing in High Performance Organizations
  • CSM 572: Needs Assessment, Planning and Evaluation
  • CSM 574: Privacy and Security in Interactive Technology
Research Course
  • HES 509: Research Methods
*Please note that courses are subject to change.

Application Requirements:

  • One of the following:
    • 3.0/4.0 GPA
    • 3.0 GPA on last 60 hours
    • an acceptable MAT, GMAT or GRE entrance examination score
  • Two letters of recommendation (If applicant is a recent graduate, one of the recommendations should be from a former professor)
  • Statement of Purpose (Include in the Header: Quality Management). Students should also include in their statement why they have chosen this area of study and how it will apply to their personal and/or professional goals
  • Current Resume
When completing the online application:
  • Select Application Type: Distance Learning
  • Select Planned Course of Study: Human Environmental Sciences General, MHS
  • In Specialty Area: Type Consumer Quality Management
Non-Degree Application
This option allows a student to complete a maximum of 12 credit hours as a non-degree student. One must apply to a degree program before taking additional courses beyond 12 credit hours. The non-degree GPA will not be used to determine GPA qualifications for admission.
How do I apply?

Is Consumer Quality Management for you?

“Students leave our area of study with a better understanding of quality as it relates to their respective fields. They have the skills to research a problem, address the problem and propose resolutions with their new knowledge base,” McMath said. “Additionally students gain skills related to management through leadership, service and conflict courses. Those with years of management experience can opt for electives in interactive technology and security.”

William Katz, a student in the program, added, “The skills that I gained were leadership-centric. Specifically, I gained a better understanding of quantifiable leadership principles, varied management systems, and how to effectively manage conflict in an organizational workplace environment.”

Another student, Keri Talley, said, “This program has helped me to view the workplace differently. It has taught me to bring people and systems together in order to develop communication in the workplace and create a staff that is willing to learn.” 
While other students like Lance Greene feel that they become both better managers and better leaders. Greene said, "In the management realm, understanding continuous improvement and analysis has improved my functionality, capabilities and processes.  I also found that I have become a more effective leader, communicator and advocate for my employees."
For more information about the program, contact:

Juanita McMath, Ph.D.,
CQM Coordinator and Advisor
205-348-2785
jmcmath@ches.ua.edu
Skype: juanita.mcmath
For admissions information, contact:

Bama By Distance
The University of Alabama
800-467-0227
uadistance@ua.edu

You may also visit the Bama By Distance website for further details.