At Southern Nazarene University (SNU), we believe that education should evolve in response to the demands of the real world. That’s why we’re proud to reintroduce our Master of Science in Management (MSM) degree under a new name that more clearly reflects its strength and focus: the Master of Science in Management in Strategic Operations.
This change isn’t just about branding. It’s about clarity, relevance, and alignment with the needs of today’s professionals. By sharpening the program's title and emphasis, we are highlighting what our graduates have known about this degree all along. An MSM equips leaders to think strategically, optimize organizational processes, and create measurable impact across industries.
While management remains a foundational skill, the business world has become increasingly specialized. Employers today aren’t just looking for generalists. They seek professionals with targeted expertise who can lead with confidence and effectively address complex operational challenges. The updated degree name communicates exactly that.
“Strategic Operations” reflects the depth and direction of the program. It signals to potential students, employers, and industry partners that our graduates are equipped not just to manage, but to strategically lead the systems, people, and processes that drive success in business and organizations. This provides a level of clarity that makes the degree more competitive on résumés and more meaningful in professional conversations.
Dr. Keith Toles Jr., the Program Director for SNU’s Graduate Programs in Business, which include the MSM in Strategic Operations, MBA, and MBA in Healthcare Administration, believes this shift strengthens what is already a dynamic and valuable learning experience.
“It’s hard to choose just one valuable element of the MSM in Strategic Operations because two things truly set it apart: the integration of a Christian worldview throughout the curriculum and the flexible format designed for adult learners,” he explains. “The faith-based perspective encourages students to lead with integrity, purpose, and a strong ethical foundation.”
In a fast-paced and ever-evolving business landscape, leaders must be equipped not only in theory but with the practical skills to lead real change. Strategic operations involve understanding the interconnectedness of departments, processes, technologies, and people. It requires systems thinking, data literacy, and the ability to align day-to-day functions with big-picture strategy.
This program prepares graduates for precisely that.
This program serves learners from various career levels and backgrounds. Whether you’re an early-career professional looking to level up, a mid-level manager preparing for executive responsibilities, or someone transitioning into business leadership from another field, the MSM in Strategic Operations was designed with your goals in mind.
Dr. Toles expresses that success in the program isn’t about having all the answers on day one. It’s about committing to growth and applying what you learn in real time.
“Success in the MSM in Strategic Operations program comes from active engagement, disciplined time management, and a commitment to applying concepts to real-world challenges,” he says. “Learners who approach the program with a growth mindset, consistently participate in discussions, and seek to connect theory with practice tend to thrive. The faculty are one of the learner's biggest resources, so leverage the faculty feedback, collaborate with peers, and stay organized—these are all key components of academic and professional success in this program.”
From courses in Strategic Human Resource Management to Project Management and Quality Management Systems, every class is designed to equip learners with tools they can apply immediately in their workplaces. You'll learn how to:
But more than just skills, this program shapes how you think as a leader.
“For learners considering the MSM in Strategic Operations, my advice is to come in with a mindset of systems thinking and a passion for solving complex problems,” Dr. Toles shares. “This program will challenge you to see how strategy, people, and processes intersect and how operational excellence can drive long-term success. Learners should enter this program with curiosity, adaptability, and an appreciation for the power of data in driving informed decisions. Whether pursuing a new career path or stepping into a leadership role, these qualities are essential for success in the field of strategic operations.”
At SNU, we understand that many of our learners are balancing work, family, and community commitments. That’s why the MSM in Strategic Operations is delivered in a format that works for real life. Students can take one class at a time, one night a week on campus or 100% online. Depending on their course load, students have the flexibility of completing the entire program in as little as 12-18 months, without sacrificing quality.
This practical, learner-first approach allows you to apply what you’re learning directly to your current job, making the experience more than theoretical. It’s transformative for your career.
In addition to the strategic and operational focus, what truly sets SNU apart is our commitment to faith-integrated learning. The program goes beyond a business degree, serving as preparation for ethical, purpose-driven leadership.
Dr. Toles, who brings a rich background in entrepreneurship, financial services, and technology, shares this commitment deeply:
“I have a great zeal for leading the current and future generation of business leaders,” he explains. “My purpose in leading SNU's Graduate Programs in Business is to help learners develop a deeper understanding of business. I believe that business helps construct ways to understand and analyze the world. I love working at SNU because it empowers learners to achieve their academic goals, fulfill their life aspirations, and create a lasting impact for generations within their families.”
If you’re ready to grow as a leader, gain in-demand operational expertise, and make a meaningful impact in your organization, the Master of Science in Management in Strategic Operations at SNU is the path forward.
Join a program designed with your future in mind—one that blends rigorous academics, relevant skills, and a values-based foundation for leadership.