Rankin College of Business Gets New Dean

Hands-on Learning: RCB’s Commitment to Experiential Education

At Gamestanza, we know firsthand the importance of practical experience in the gaming industry. That’s why we’re particularly interested in the Southern Arkansas University Rankin College of Business’ (RCB) dedication to experiential learning. The RCB goes beyond theoretical coursework, providing students with opportunities to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

One of the key ways RCB achieves this is through its robust internship program. This program, which offers students academic credit, provides them with invaluable hands-on experience working with businesses, gaining practical skills, and building professional networks.

The Internship Program: A Bridge Between Classroom and Career

The RCB Internship Program is designed to be a mutually beneficial experience for both students and participating businesses. Students gain real-world experience and develop their professional skills, while businesses benefit from a source of qualified talent and fresh perspectives.

To be eligible for the program, students must have a minimum of 75 credit hours and a GPA of 2.5. They must also submit an application, transcripts, resumes, and recommendations from three RCB faculty members. The program requires a minimum commitment of 12 weeks and 120 hours of work, with students typically working 10-15 hours per week.

The RCB takes pride in matching students with internships that align with their interests and career goals. A selection committee reviews applications carefully and considers each student’s academic background, skills, and career aspirations when making placements.

By participating in the internship program, students gain a competitive edge in the job market, demonstrating their practical experience and commitment to their chosen field.

Beyond Internships: Project-Based Learning and Industry Partnerships

In addition to internships, the RCB fosters experiential learning through project-based learning and collaborations with industry partners. Students work on real-world projects, applying their classroom knowledge to solve practical problems and gain valuable insights.

Industry partnerships provide students with opportunities to network with professionals, learn about current trends, and explore career pathways within specific industries. The RCB’s connections with businesses, both local and national, offer students a diverse range of experiences and exposure to the dynamic world of business.

Beyond the Classroom: RCB’s Unique Advantages

While the RCB’s commitment to experiential learning is noteworthy, the college also offers several other advantages that contribute to its reputation as a top-tier business institution. These unique strengths set RCB apart and create a supportive and enriching environment for students.

Personalized Attention and Strong Faculty Support

Gamestanza knows that personalized attention is crucial for student success, especially in a competitive field like gaming. The RCB’s smaller class sizes allow for a more intimate learning environment, where students can receive individualized attention from faculty members.

Professors are not only experts in their field but also invested in their students’ growth and development. They provide guidance, mentorship, and support, helping students navigate academic challenges and explore career opportunities.

A Vibrant Community and Supportive Network

The RCB fosters a strong sense of community among its students, faculty, and staff. Students connect with each other through clubs, organizations, and social events, creating lasting friendships and professional networks.

This supportive environment extends beyond the classroom, with alumni actively engaging with current students, providing mentorship and offering valuable insights into the business world.

State-of-the-Art Resources and Facilities

The RCB provides students with access to state-of-the-art resources and facilities that enhance their learning experience. From well-equipped computer labs and research libraries to modern classrooms and collaborative spaces, students have the tools they need to succeed.

The college also invests in cutting-edge technology and software, ensuring that students are exposed to the latest industry trends and tools.

Preparing for the Future: RCB’s Curriculum and Resources for a Dynamic Business World

The RCB’s curriculum is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and adaptability needed to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape. Gamestanza recognizes the importance of staying ahead of the curve in the ever-changing gaming industry, and the RCB’s approach reflects this commitment to preparing students for future success.

Core Business Principles and Specialized Tracks

The RCB offers a comprehensive business curriculum that covers core principles such as accounting, finance, marketing, and management. This strong foundation provides students with a broad understanding of business fundamentals.

In addition to core courses, the RCB offers specialized tracks that allow students to focus on specific areas of interest, such as entrepreneurship, international business, and data analytics. These specialized tracks provide students with in-depth knowledge and skills in their chosen fields.

Emphasis on Innovation, Technology, and Data Literacy

The RCB recognizes the transformative impact of technology and data on the business world. The curriculum incorporates an emphasis on innovation, entrepreneurship, and data literacy, preparing students to navigate the digital landscape and leverage data-driven insights.

Students gain exposure to cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and cloud computing, equipping them with the skills to thrive in a technology-driven industry like gaming.

Real-World Applications and Case Studies

The RCB incorporates real-world applications and case studies into its curriculum, helping students connect theoretical concepts to practical scenarios. Students analyze real business challenges, develop solutions, and learn from the experiences of industry leaders.

This hands-on approach prepares students to apply their knowledge in authentic business settings and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Gamestanza’s Take: What This Means for the Gaming Industry

The appointment of Dr. Gerald Plumlee as Dean of the RCB is a positive development for the gaming industry. His commitment to experiential learning, coupled with the college’s strong academic foundation and supportive environment, positions RCB to play a significant role in shaping the future of the gaming workforce.

Bridging the Gap: RCB and the Gaming Industry

Gamestanza sees the potential for increased collaboration between the RCB and the gaming industry. This partnership can benefit both sides:

• RCB: Access to industry insights, real-world projects, and potential internship and job opportunities for students.
• Gaming Industry: A pipeline of qualified talent with a strong business acumen and understanding of the gaming landscape.

Cultivating the Next Generation of Game Developers

The RCB’s focus on experiential learning, coupled with its specialized tracks and emphasis on innovation, can equip students with the skills needed to excel in the gaming industry. Graduates from the RCB will be well-prepared to contribute to the development of new and innovative games, bringing fresh perspectives and business savvy to the table.

Gamestanza envisions RCB graduates filling key roles in game development studios, from design and production to marketing and management, driving innovation and growth within the industry.

A Winning Formula: Business Education and Gaming Success

A strong business education is essential for success in the gaming industry, which is increasingly becoming a global business. The RCB’s commitment to providing students with a comprehensive understanding of business principles, coupled with the resources and support to develop specialized skills, creates a winning formula for future game industry leaders.

Gamestanza believes that this partnership between the RCB and the gaming industry will benefit both sides, fostering innovation, growth, and a thriving workforce for years to come.