Business

Students enrolled in this course will earn their required Personal Finance credit by learning the knowledge and skills necessary to become financially literate, responsible, and future-ready. This course helps students understand how their financial decisions today influence their future careers, lifestyles, and long-term economic stability.

Throughout the course, students will learn how to make smart financial choices, budget effectively, manage risk, and plan for financial success. Instruction includes topics such as income and careers, banking and financial services, credit and debt management, saving and investing, taxes, insurance, consumer awareness, and long-range financial planning. All content is taught through an agricultural lens, helping students connect financial concepts to real-world agricultural careers and industry opportunities.

This class will be offered opposite Dual Credit Crowder College Agriculture Economics, allowing students to choose a personal finance pathway that best fits their academic and career goals. Students will also be required to be active members of the Neosho FFA Chapter, where they can apply financial concepts through Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs), leadership roles, and FFA activities. 

This course is an introduction to graphic design with a primary focus on the practical application of design principles and tools. Students will learn the “how” of graphic design by creating original work using Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe InDesign, which are industry-standard software programs.

Instruction includes an overview of the elements and principles of design to help students understand what makes effective visual communication. This course provides a strong foundation for further study in web design, digital art, multimedia, and other advanced technology and design courses.

This course introduces students to the theory and principles of public relations and the best practices of digital marketing strategies used in today’s online environment. Students will examine how organizations build relationships with the public, manage brand image, and communicate effectively with target audiences.

Instruction focuses on strategies for reaching the e-consumer, including social media engagement, online branding, content strategy, audience targeting, and reputation management. Through real-world examples and applied projects, students will learn how public relations and digital marketing work together to influence perception and drive engagement in digital spaces.

This course is ideal for students interested in marketing, communications, media, public relations, and digital business careers.

Introduction to Digital Media Content Creation introduces students to the creation and management of digital content used in modern marketing and communication. Students will produce a variety of media, including podcasts, videos, blogs, and social media content, while learning how digital platforms are used to engage audiences and promote messages.

Students will develop skills in planning, organizing, creating, and analyzing digital content as part of a cohesive digital marketing campaign. Instruction includes understanding audience engagement, storytelling, branding, and the use of analytics to measure the effectiveness of content marketing strategies across multiple online platforms.

Through hands-on projects and real-world applications, students will gain experience with content creation tools, collaboration, and strategic decision-making. This course provides a strong foundation for students interested in digital media, marketing, communications, and creative technology careers.

Social Media Strategies is an advanced course focused on digital media content creation and the strategic use of social platforms for marketing and communication. Students will design, produce, and manage comprehensive social media campaigns that include podcasts, video production, visual communication, and written social media content.

Students will learn how to plan and execute media marketing campaigns across a variety of social media platforms, emphasizing audience engagement, branding, storytelling, and ethical digital practices. Instruction also includes analyzing engagement metrics, refining strategies based on data, and understanding platform-specific best practices.

Through hands-on projects and real-world applications, students will develop advanced skills in content creation, collaboration, and digital strategy, preparing them for careers in social media marketing, digital media, communications, and related fields.

Introduction to Business is designed to acquaint students with the fundamental principles of the business world and provide a strong foundation for future business and marketing coursework. Students will explore basic economic concepts, the process of owning and operating a business, and the ways in which a global society influences business decisions.

Course content includes an examination of the American economic system, the essential elements of business ownership and entrepreneurship, and fundamental concepts in marketing, finance, and human resource relations. Students will also learn how businesses are structured, how products and services are marketed, and how organizations manage people and resources effectively.

Through real-world examples, discussions, and hands-on activities, students will develop a practical understanding of how businesses function and the role they play in the economy. This course serves as an excellent introduction for students interested in business, marketing, entrepreneurship, or career and technical education pathways.

Business Communication prepares students to communicate effectively and professionally in today’s workplace. This course emphasizes the development of clear, concise, and purposeful communication skills essential for success in business, postsecondary education, and future careers.

Students will learn and practice a variety of communication formats, including professional emails, business letters, résumés, cover letters, reports, presentations, and interpersonal communication. Instruction includes both written and oral communication, with a focus on grammar, tone, organization, and clarity.

The course also covers key workplace communication concepts such as active listening, team communication, digital etiquette, customer service interactions, conflict resolution, and professional conduct. Students will participate in activities such as mock interviews, collaborative projects, and professional correspondence simulations.

By the end of the course, students will have developed strong foundational communication skills that will support them in any career field, leadership role, or postsecondary pathway.

Accounting I is designed to build a foundational understanding of manual and automated accounting principles, concepts, and procedures used in business and industry. This course introduces students to the financial processes that support decision-making and organizational success.

Students will engage in hands-on activities that include using the accounting equation, completing the accounting cycle, entering transactions into journals, posting to ledgers, and preparing end-of-period financial statements and reports. Additional topics include payroll systems, banking activities, tax calculations, and other essential accounting tasks.

Through practical exercises, simulations, and real-world applications, students will develop accuracy, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills. Accounting I provides a strong foundation for students interested in business, finance, entrepreneurship, or advanced accounting coursework.

Accounting II is designed to help students acquire a more thorough and in-depth understanding of accounting procedures and techniques used in solving business problems and making financial decisions. Building on the foundational skills learned in Accounting I, this course emphasizes advanced applications and analysis of financial information.

Students will develop skills in analyzing and interpreting accounting data related to partnerships and corporations, preparing formal financial statements and supporting schedules, and applying inventory and budgetary control systems. Emphasis is placed on using accounting information to evaluate business performance and inform decision-making.

Computer applications are integrated throughout the course, allowing students to use industry-relevant software and technology to complete accounting tasks, analyze data, and produce financial reports. Through hands-on practice and real-world scenarios, students will strengthen their accuracy, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Accounting II is ideal for students pursuing careers or further study in accounting, finance, business management, or entrepreneurship.

Personal Finance is based on the Missouri Personal Finance Competencies and provides students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions about real-world financial issues. This course prepares students to navigate personal and professional financial responsibilities with confidence.

Students will explore how financial choices influence career options, future earning potential, and lifestyle decisions. Instruction emphasizes applying decision-making skills to evaluate career pathways, set personal and financial goals, and plan for long-term success.

Course content focuses on developing responsible financial habits, including wise spending, saving, budgeting, investing, and credit management. Students will learn how to effectively use income, manage risk, and make sound financial decisions that support personal financial stability and success.

Personal Finance equips students with practical, lifelong skills and fulfills the graduation requirement for financial literacy.

AP Personal Finance is based on the Missouri Personal Finance Competencies and provides students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions about real-world financial issues. This advanced course prepares students to navigate both personal and professional financial responsibilities with confidence while applying higher-level reasoning and analysis.

Students will explore how financial choices influence career options, future earning potential, and lifestyle decisions. Instruction emphasizes applying decision-making skills to evaluate career pathways, set personal and financial goals, and plan strategically for long-term success.

Course content focuses on developing responsible financial habits, including wise spending, saving, budgeting, investing, and credit management. Students will learn how to effectively use income, manage risk, analyze financial products, and make sound financial decisions that support long-term financial stability and success.

Through real-world scenarios, data analysis, discussion, and project-based learning, students will develop the critical thinking skills necessary for college, careers, and independent living.

AP Personal Finance equips students with practical, lifelong financial skills while fulfilling the district’s graduation requirement for financial literacy and offering an academically rigorous pathway for motivated learners.

Crowder College Personal Finance is based on the Missouri Personal Finance Competencies and provides students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions about real-world financial issues. This course prepares students to navigate personal and professional financial responsibilities with confidence.

Students will explore how financial choices influence career options, future earning potential, and lifestyle decisions. Instruction emphasizes applying decision-making skills to evaluate career pathways, set personal and financial goals, and plan for long-term success.

Course content is designed to help students manage everyday financial responsibilities and long-term planning, including taxes, insurance, budgeting, saving, borrowing, credit management, investing, Social Security, estate planning, and major purchases such as buying a home or automobile. Students will learn how to effectively use income, manage risk, and make sound financial decisions that support personal financial stability and success.

Consumer Finance equips students with practical, lifelong financial skills and fulfills the district’s graduation requirement for financial literacy.

Business Law is designed to acquaint students with the basic legal principles relevant to their roles as citizens, consumers, and employees. Through the study of personal, business, and consumer law, students will gain an understanding of how laws shape economic activity and everyday decision-making.

Course content includes an overview of the American system of free enterprise, private property rights, and the basic elements of contracts. Students will also explore employer–employee relations, landlord and tenant laws, individual rights, wills and estates, family and juvenile justice law, and community property concepts.

Using real-world examples, case studies, and discussions, students will analyze legal scenarios and develop skills in critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and informed decision-making. Business Law provides a strong foundation for students interested in business, law, criminal justice, public service, or any career that requires an understanding of legal responsibilities and rights.

Marketing is designed to help students develop a strong understanding of the marketing world and the fundamental processes businesses use to promote products and services. This course builds on business foundations and supports students interested in owning, operating, or growing a business.

Instruction includes marketing basics, target markets, the economics of marketing, branding and promotion, advertising and commercials, and the impact of social media and digital platforms on modern marketing strategies. Students will analyze how businesses identify customer needs, create value, and communicate effectively with consumers.

A key focus of the course is understanding how marketing supports business growth, including strategies for branding, increasing sales, and expanding market reach, particularly for new or small businesses. Through projects, simulations, and real-world examples, students will apply marketing concepts to practical business scenarios.

Marketing is ideal for students interested in entrepreneurship, advertising, social media, sales, or business management and provides a strong foundation for advanced marketing and business coursework.

Business Management is designed to help students develop an understanding of the skills and resources needed to effectively manage a business. This course provides a comprehensive overview of how businesses operate within the American economic system and prepares students for leadership roles in business and industry.

Instruction includes the study of forms of business ownership, personnel and human resource management, labor–management relations, public and human relations, taxation, and government regulations that affect business operations. Students will explore how management decisions impact productivity, profitability, and organizational success.

The course also introduces the use of computers and business software as decision-making tools in areas such as accounting, sales analysis, and inventory control. Through real-world scenarios, projects, and simulations, students will apply management concepts while developing problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills.

Business Management is ideal for students interested in entrepreneurship, leadership, business administration, or preparing for advanced business and management coursework.

Marketing is designed to help students develop an understanding of the marketing world and the fundamental processes businesses use to promote products and services. Students will explore marketing basics, target markets, the economics of marketing, branding and promotion, commercials and advertising, and the impact of social media and digital platforms on modern marketing.

Through real-world examples and hands-on activities, students will learn how businesses identify customer needs, communicate value, and build brand awareness. This course provides a strong foundation for students interested in marketing, advertising, entrepreneurship, or business-related careers.

This course introduces students to essential computer and business technology skills used in academic and professional environments. Students will develop proficiency in word processing, database management, spreadsheet applications, and presentation software through hands-on instruction and real-world tasks.

Learning is enhanced through the use of current business software and extensive practice with PC-compatible computers. Students will work with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint, to create documents, analyze data, manage information, and deliver professional presentations.

Students must have access to the version of Microsoft Office used at Crowder College, as the course aligns with postsecondary expectations. The software used in this course is best suited for a Windows-based environment.

This course prepares students with practical technology skills that support success in business, college coursework, and future careers.

Intro to Graphics Software introduces students to the fundamental concepts and techniques of typography and graphic design. Students will explore the principles of design—such as balance, contrast, alignment, repetition, and hierarchy—to create visually effective layouts that attract intended audiences and communicate clear messages.

Through hands-on projects, students will learn to use various graphic design software programs to produce digital designs for print and online media. Emphasis is placed on organization, creativity, and purposeful design choices that result in professional-quality work.

Upon successful completion of the course, students will have the opportunity to earn an Industry Recognized Credential (IRC), helping prepare them for future coursework, career pathways, and opportunities in graphic design, marketing, media, and related fields.

This course is ideal for students interested in creativity, visual communication, and technology-driven design careers.

In this course, students apply graphic design principles and digital media marketing strategies through the creation, branding, and promotion of a real-world project. Students will integrate visual design, messaging, and marketing techniques to develop content that effectively reaches and engages target audiences across digital platforms.

Through hands-on projects, students gain experience in design software, branding, advertising, and promotional strategies while developing creative, technical, and professional skills aligned with careers in graphic design, marketing, and media production.

Business Ethics focuses on the ethical dilemmas faced by individuals and organizations in the modern business environment. Students will examine how values, laws, and ethical frameworks influence decision-making in business and the broader economy.

The course introduces methods for evaluating ethical alternatives and applying ethical reasoning to real-world scenarios. Students will analyze case studies involving corporate responsibility, workplace ethics, consumer protection, sustainability, digital citizenship, and social responsibility.

Emphasis is placed on helping students apply ethical decision-making strategies to personal situations as well as preparing them to lead and manage organizations responsibly. Through discussion, reflection, and problem-solving activities, students will develop the skills needed to make thoughtful, ethical choices in business and professional settings.

Business Ethics is ideal for students interested in leadership, management, entrepreneurship, law, or any career that requires strong ethical judgment and integrity.

Business Law covers the legal principles that operate in common business situations. Students will study the law of contracts, agency, and business organizations, gaining an understanding of how legal rules guide business relationships and decision-making.

Through real-world examples and case studies, students will examine legal responsibilities, rights, and ethical considerations faced by businesses and individuals. This course provides a strong foundation for students interested in business, law, management, or entrepreneurship.

Workplace Leadership prepares students to develop the skills and mindset necessary to lead effectively in professional environments. This course focuses on building leadership competencies that support success across a wide range of careers and industries.

Students will explore leadership styles, communication strategies, team building, decision-making, and conflict resolution as they relate to the workplace. Emphasis is placed on ethical leadership, professionalism, accountability, and the ability to motivate and guide others toward shared goals.

Through case studies, role-playing scenarios, collaborative projects, and self-reflection, students will practice leading teams, managing responsibilities, and responding to real-world workplace challenges. Students will also examine the differences between leading and managing, and how effective leaders adapt to diverse work environments.

Workplace Leadership equips students with transferable skills essential for career readiness, management roles, and long-term professional growth.

Graphic Arts I introduces students to the fundamental concepts and skills of visual communication and graphic design. This course focuses on creativity, technical skill development, and understanding how design is used to communicate messages effectively across print and digital media.

Students will explore the elements and principles of design, typography, color theory, and layout techniques while learning to use industry-relevant graphic design software. Through hands-on projects, students will create designs such as logos, posters, digital graphics, and promotional materials.

Emphasis is placed on developing design thinking, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills, as well as understanding how to design for specific audiences and purposes. Students will also practice basic project management skills, including meeting deadlines and revising work based on feedback.

Graphic Arts I provides a strong foundation for advanced graphic design, digital media, marketing, and visual arts courses and is ideal for students interested in creative and technology-driven career pathways.

Graphic Arts II builds upon the foundational skills developed in Graphic Arts I and offers students advanced opportunities to refine their design, technical, and creative abilities. This course emphasizes higher-level application of graphic design principles, typography, layout, and visual communication across both print and digital media.

Students will work with advanced features of industry-standard design software to create professional-quality projects such as branding packages, marketing materials, digital media content, and client-based designs. Instruction focuses on design for specific audiences, effective visual storytelling, and problem-solving through creative processes.

Students will also develop skills in project management, collaboration, and professional critique, preparing them for real-world design environments. Emphasis is placed on meeting deadlines, revising work based on feedback, and maintaining quality standards.

Graphic Arts II prepares students for advanced coursework, industry credentials, internships, and career pathways in graphic design, digital media, marketing, and related creative industries.

Principles of Management is an introductory course that explores how organizations of various sizes are effectively managed. The course focuses on the four core management functions—planning, organizing, leading, and controlling—and how these functions are applied in real-world business environments.

Students will examine how managers make decisions, coordinate resources, motivate employees, and evaluate performance while responding to the constant changes in the workplace and competitive environment. Topics include organizational structure, leadership styles, communication, teamwork, productivity, and problem-solving.

Through case studies, simulations, and collaborative activities, students will develop a practical understanding of management principles and build skills applicable to leadership, business, and career pathways.

Sports & Entertainment Marketing focuses on the marketing and management functions used in industries centered on sports, entertainment, and leisure activities. This course explores how businesses promote events, products, and services designed to engage audiences and enhance recreational and cultural experiences.

Students will examine marketing strategies related to amateur and professional sports, sporting and entertainment events, and organizations involved in the selling or renting of recreational and sporting equipment. The course also covers products and services connected to hobby, cultural, and entertainment-based businesses that satisfy the desire for productive and enjoyable use of leisure time.

Instruction includes topics such as branding, sponsorships, promotions, ticket sales, event marketing, customer experience, and social media engagement. Through projects and real-world examples, students will analyze how marketing decisions influence fan engagement, revenue generation, and brand loyalty.

Sports & Entertainment Marketing is ideal for students interested in careers in sports management, event planning, marketing, media, recreation, or entertainment industries.

AP Macroeconomics is a college-level course that introduces students to the principles that apply to an economic system as a whole. The course places particular emphasis on national income and price-level determination while examining how overall economic performance is measured and evaluated. Students explore the roles of the financial sector, stabilization policies, economic growth, and international economics. Throughout the course, students learn to use graphs, charts, and data to analyze, describe, and explain key economic concepts, building critical thinking and analytical skills that prepare them for advanced study in economics and related fields.

Marketing Research introduces students to the methods and tools businesses use to gather, analyze, and interpret data to make informed marketing decisions. This course focuses on understanding consumer behavior, market trends, and the effectiveness of marketing strategies.

Students will learn how to design surveys, conduct research, collect and analyze data, and interpret findings to support business decision-making. Topics include primary and secondary research methods, sampling techniques, data analysis, market segmentation, and ethical considerations in research.

Through hands-on projects and real-world applications, students will apply research findings to develop marketing recommendations, evaluate branding and advertising efforts, and assess customer needs. Students may use digital tools and software to organize data and present results effectively.

Marketing Research is ideal for students interested in marketing, business analytics, entrepreneurship, or careers that require data-driven decision-making and consumer insight.

Marketing Work-Based Learning (WBL) integrates classroom instruction with real-world work experiences to prepare students for college, careers, and workforce success. Aligned with Missouri Work-Based Learning (WBL) standards, this course allows students to apply academic and technical business knowledge in authentic workplace settings while developing employability and career-readiness skills.

Students may participate in approved internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing, paid or unpaid work experiences, and industry-based learning opportunities related to business, marketing, finance, management, entrepreneurship, and other career and technical education (CTE) or emerging industry pathways. Experiences are coordinated in partnership with local employers, Workforce Development Boards, and the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

Through structured work experiences and guided reflection, students will develop skills in professional communication, teamwork, time management, problem-solving, workplace ethics, and leadership. Classroom components support career exploration, résumé development, interview skills, goal setting, and evaluation of workplace performance.

Students may also have opportunities to earn industry-recognized credentials, such as the Missouri Career Readiness Certificate (MoCRC), and build professional networks that support postsecondary education, training, or immediate employment.

Each student must have a signed training agreement and individualized learning plan, outlining workplace expectations, learning objectives, and evaluation criteria. Ongoing supervision and assessment ensure alignment between classroom instruction and workplace learning.

Marketing Work-Based Learning provides students with meaningful, hands-on experiences that strengthen career readiness, support CTE pathways, and create direct connections between education and Missouri’s workforce needs.

Business Work-Based Learning (WBL) integrates classroom instruction with real-world work experiences to prepare students for college, careers, and workforce success. Aligned with Missouri Work-Based Learning (WBL) standards, this course allows students to apply academic and technical business knowledge in authentic workplace settings while developing employability and career-readiness skills.

Students may participate in approved internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing, paid or unpaid work experiences, and industry-based learning opportunities related to business, marketing, finance, management, entrepreneurship, and other career and technical education (CTE) or emerging industry pathways. Experiences are coordinated in partnership with local employers, Workforce Development Boards, and the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

Through structured work experiences and guided reflection, students will develop skills in professional communication, teamwork, time management, problem-solving, workplace ethics, and leadership. Classroom components support career exploration, résumé development, interview skills, goal setting, and evaluation of workplace performance.

Students may also have opportunities to earn industry-recognized credentials, such as the Missouri Career Readiness Certificate (MoCRC), and build professional networks that support postsecondary education, training, or immediate employment.

Each student must have a signed training agreement and individualized learning plan, outlining workplace expectations, learning objectives, and evaluation criteria. Ongoing supervision and assessment ensure alignment between classroom instruction and workplace learning.

Business Work-Based Learning provides students with meaningful, hands-on experiences that strengthen career readiness, support CTE pathways, and create direct connections between education and Missouri’s workforce needs.

Wildcat Student-Operated Business provides students with a hands-on, real-world business experience through Corner Cat Graphic, the student-run school business at Neosho High School. In this course, students apply design, production, and business principles while operating a functioning enterprise.

Students use their creative and technical skills to design, produce, and market items such as banners, posters, plaques, printed apparel, trophies, and other school spirit products. Products are sold through a student-operated online webstore, giving students experience in e-commerce, order fulfillment, customer service, and quality control.

In addition to technical production skills, the course emphasizes essential workplace soft skills, including teamwork, communication, time management, problem-solving, and professionalism. Students collaborate to meet deadlines, manage inventory, respond to customer needs, and maintain high standards of product quality.

Wildcat Student-Operated Business prepares students for careers in entrepreneurship, graphic design, marketing, and business operations while providing authentic experience in running a real business.