Registration is now open for the University of Houston-Downtown’s new Retail Management Certificate Program which is delivered online in 12 sessions every two weeks starting Jan. 17.
The Center for Retail Management in the College of Business developed the program. Industry leaders representing all areas of retailing helped create the curriculum, and industry experts will present the webinar sessions. The program is geared for non-degree seeking students who want to advance their careers in retail management.
Some of the guest speakers include Dave D’Arezzo, executive vice president and chief operating officer, Grocers Supply Company; Scott McClelland, president of Houston H.E.B.; Jeff McAllister, senior vice president, Innovations, Walmart; Gary Huddleston, director, Consumer Affairs, Kroger Company, and Ron Lucas, vice president, Human Resources, Stage Stores Inc.
“The program is designed for retail managers who would like to enhance their skills as well as individuals who would like to develop the skills to become retail managers,” said Tracy Davis, director of the Center for Retail Management. “Our committee of industry advisers has helped ensure the program is relevant to retailing in today’s retail environment.”
Each session consists of a live webinar and online curriculum that includes reading materials and activities. The webinars are approximately 75 minutes in length and include lectures from a retail industry professional, followed by a live question and answer period. The sessions will be archived so students can make up classes they miss and students can register at any time for a course and take it, Davis said.
To receive a certificate, participants must complete all 12 sessions and pass a competency exam. Individuals not interested in obtaining a certificate can still take single webinars.
Sessions topics are:
Introduction to Retail Management
Building Customer Relationships
Customer RelationsServing the Customer and Handling Complaints
Merchandising
Understanding Financials & Performance Metrics
Budgeting, Forecasting and Trends
Working with Suppliers and Distribution Centers
Risk Management
Hiring and Evaluating Employees
Motivating Employees and Employment Laws
Leadership
Ethics and Social Responsibility
The certificate program and webinar sessions are considered continuing education units and do not qualify as college credit. The cost for the 12 sessions is $1,250. Single sessions are $125. Discounts are available for employees of Texas Retailers Association members and UHD students or alumni. Credit card payment options are available.
For information or to register visit the Center’s website at www.uhd.edu/crm or call 713-221-8032.
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