CSU Launches Online Graduate Program in Ski Area Management

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30 March 2015

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SAM Magazine—Fort Collins, Colo., March 30, 2015—Colorado State University (CSU) has launched an online Ski Area Management Graduate Certificate of Completion program for students and current employees looking to further their careers in the ski industry.

Each of the six online courses in the ski area management certificate follows an accelerated eight-week schedule and incorporates industry knowledge and best practices. University officials said the curriculum was developed with input from ski area managers.

The program is designed to help prepare students to make strategic management decisions, assess the impact of policy on ski areas, make informed capital budgeting decisions, improve managerial and operational efficiency and effectiveness, and employ sound financial practices.

“It's great to have young people come into our organizations who not only have this understanding of managing what is ultimately a natural resource, but it's also terrific to [complement that] with the business acumen that can be developed through the program,” said Andy Wirth, CEO of Squaw Valley Ski Holdings, in a press release issued by CSU.

Mark Gasta, executive vice president and chief people officer for Vail Resorts, said the program provides a unique advantage to students because of its holistic business approach. “Graduates will come out not only with some deep expertise or concentration or passion, but in addition they'll have a great understanding of the overall workings of the industry and resorts,” he said.