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CATAWBA COLLEGE
FIN 2535—MANAGERIAL FINANCE
SPRING 2015 BLOCK 3
I: General Information
Day, Time, & Location:
Instructor:
Contact Information:
Office Hours:
March 12 – April 9, 2015
Jeffrey J. Bowe, MBA, Doctoral Candidate
704-202-1720; [email protected]
Call, text, or email for appointments in person, by telephone,
Skype, or WebEx. Live WebEx office hours will be posted in
Blackboard under Announcements.
Course Code:
http://connect.mheducation.com/class/j-bowe-block-3-salisbury-campus
II: Course Description & Rationale
A study of financial management for business firms to include financing and investing decisions.
Prerequisite: ACC 1901.
III. Required Textbook and Other Materials
Block, Hirt, & Danielson. (2014). Foundations of financial management 15E. New York, NY:
McGraw-Hill.
Access to McGraw-Hill’s online homework management system, "Connect Plus" (not
“Connect”), is required. Connect Plus includes a copy of the e-book. Be sure you have
purchased access to Connect Plus (not "Connect") as only Connect Plus includes
the e-book.
There are THREE ways to acquire course resources including Connect Plus:
1. Purchase the ConnectPlus access code from the Catawba College bookstore.
2. Purchase the ConnectPlus access code online directly from the publisher. If you
purchase directly from the publisher, you can upgrade to a black and white loose leaf
version of the text for around $40. This is not required but may be helpful if you feel a
hard copy fits your study preferences or that access to this book may be helpful for
Strategic Management (and as an instructor of that course, access to finance texts during
that course will be very helpful.
3. Purchase a color loose leaf book and ConnectPlus access code from the Catawba
College bookstore.
FIN 2535 Managerial Finance Spring 2015 Block 3
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IV: Course Overview and Learning Outcomes
Students will:
1. Analyze a firm’s performance and financial position using financial statements
with a focus on trending and benchmarking.
2. Forecast a firm’s future financial performance.
3. Use the time value of money techniques to make business decisions related to the
timing of future cash flows.
4. Demonstrate an understanding of working capital management, sources and
costs of financing, risks and return, and market capitalization.
5. Value financial assets.
6. Estimate a firm’s cost of capital.
7. Analyze potential investment (capital budgeting) opportunities.
8. Analyze trends in the movement of a firm’s stock price based on financial
research.
Learning outcomes will be assessed as follows:
Assessement method
Pre-test / Post-test
Quizzes and Examinations
Discussion Postings
Homework Assignments (inlcuding Writing)
Outcome
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Rubrics are in this syllabus for homework assignments classified as writing intensive.
V: Course Delivery, Assignments, and Assessment
The course will consist of in-class exercise (CL), discussion postings (DP), homework
assignments (HA), quizzes (QU), a mid-term examination (ME), and a cumulative final
examination (FE). Homework assignments will include several assignments classified as
“writing intensive”. Each workshop includes material covered in the text. Assignments may
include additional materials made available to the student.
In-Class Exercises (CL)
This component will include involvement in class discussions as well as completing assignments
and projects during class periods. Some of these projects and assignments will be individual and
others will be completed in groups formed randomly by the instructor.
Discussion Postings (DP)
Discussion posting are due by the date and time as published in the Course Schedule and
Blackboard. Online discussion points are earned based on your written response as upper
level students. Some discussion posts will requires source citations other than
FIN 2535 Managerial Finance Spring 2015 Block 3
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your text as noted in the Blackboard instructions. Each citation must be
properly referenced, following proper APA style. Wikipedia or any source that does
not offer identification and qualification of its authors is not allowed. Slideshares and any
student paper below the doctoral course level are not acceptable. Any source that sells
or in any format or manner distributes completed research papers is strictly
forbidden as a source and can lead to an automatic recording of 0 points for
that assignment.
The following rubric provides additional details on grading of Online Discussions and the points
for each assignment will be posted in Blackboard.
ONLINE DISCUSSION RUBRIC














Requirements
Writer addressed all objectives and questions
of the assignment.
Writer stayed focused on the topic, and
shows clear evidence of thorough research.
At least three additional credible sources are
used in the discussion.
Critical Thinking
Writer uses critical thinking and analytical
skills based on research.
The research and analysis is consistent in
supporting the comments and answers.
Writer addresses assignment using insights
and new applications.
Appropriate terminology and vocabulary is
used in presenting and analysis.
Writer interprets how new knowledge is
useful to his/her learning.
Mechanics
Grammar
Spelling
Word choice
Punctuation
Sentence structure
APA citations and references
TOTAL
FIN 2535 Managerial Finance Spring 2015 Block 3
MAX
POSSIBLE
DISC/HW
35%
ADD’L CRITERIA
All questions are
answered—1 point
for each element of
a question not
answered
40%
Analysis and
recommendations
must use analysis
and not simple
reporting of facts
and details
25%
More than 3 errors
results in 1 point
for every error;
APA citations are 1
point for placement
and accuracy.
Varies
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Homework Assignments (HA)
Homework assignments include assignments that can be classified as:



Application of concepts (ConnectPlus and Blackboard).
Writing intensive (Blackboard). Writing intensive homework in Blackboard MUST be
submitted in a Microsoft Word-compatible document as a file attachment.
Note that homework assignments marked “A” are pre-class homework (15 points each)
on the topics to be discussed. The completion of this homework is to provide for more
effective class time. Homework marked “B” (35 points each) is due after the class
discussion and is to provide practice to master necessary course concepts.
Quizzes (QU)
Quizzes may include the following question types:




Multiple choice (quantitative and qualitative)
Short-answer
Essay
Practical application problems
The Quiz may be taken online from any location and will be administered in Blackboard and
Connect Plus. Detailed instructions will be made available prior to the quiz.
Mid-term Examination and Cumulative Final Examination (ME and FE)
The mid-term examination will be administered online and is open-book and open-note but
must be taken on campus at the regularly scheduled time. The cumulative final will be
administered online and it will be closed book and closed note—nothing will be allowed except
calculators and the time value of money tables from the textbook—and must be taken on
campus. You will certify on both exams that you worked independently. Please note that
once you answer a question using the online software for an exam, you may not
return to the question.
VI: Grades, Weights & Scale
Scale:
A
B+
C+
D+
F
= 100‐93 %
= 90‐88%
= 79‐78 %
= 69‐68 %
< 60%
A‐
B
C
D
= 92‐90%
= 87‐82%
= 77‐72%
= 67‐62%
FIN 2535 Managerial Finance Spring 2015 Block 3
B‐
C‐
D‐
= 81‐80%
= 71‐70%
= 61‐60%
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Weights:
In Class Activities (6 @ 20)
Pre and Post Tests
Blackboard Discussions (2 @ 15, 2 @35)
Homework A (5 net @ 15)
Homework B (5 @ 35)
Quiz
Midterm Exam
Final Exam (cumulative)
Total Possible Points in Course*
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
120 points
25 points
100 points
75 points
175 points
80 points
200 points
250 points
1025
T
To mitigate the stress and impact of bad performance on individual topics:



* The class total is 1025 points but the scale is 1000 points. The extra points can be
considered built-in extra credit or grace, so please do not ask for additional extra credit.
Your lowest Homework A and B scores are dropped providing that you attempted the
assignment. The “net” notation in the above table indicates the number of each type of
assignment that remains after dropping the low score. If you do not attempt the
assignment, then that “0” score will be counted in your grade and your total possible
points will be higher than 1000--your total possible score will be 1035, 1055, or 1070.
Student grades are visible to the student throughout the course. Please note that grades for
some assignments are converted to percentages, and then applied to the course total in the
ratios above. Blackboard will be used to maintain a gradebook throughout the course using
the total points and then adjusted at the end of the course by dropping the lowest Homework
A and B scores. This means that the points accumulating in Blackboard are more than your
actual net score. However, as noted above, if you do not submit an assignment then your
total possible points will be more than 1000 and this will significantly lower your final grade
based on the % required for each grade.
This course deploys both a pre-test and a post-test for assessment purposes. Students should
sincerely attempt both since the results impact our accreditation status and thus the value of the
business degree earned at Catawba College.
Both the pre-test and post-test can be completed online from any location on the planet with
internet access, although it is recommended that it not be attempted from a cell phone. The pretest earns 10 points for completion. The post-test earns 10 points for completion plus 5
additional points for scoring over 90%.
It is said that 90% of success is showing up. In this class, like business, that is not true. You start
each class and online discussion at 0% of contribution points until you demonstrate that you
have mastered the topic and concepts in depth and with the requisite knowledge that is required
to translate the concepts into application.
FIN 2535 Managerial Finance Spring 2015 Block 3
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The grade you receive for the course is intended to certify your demonstrated understanding of
and mastery of the concepts and tools from the course. Your grade is not a reflection of your
worth as an individual; it probably reflects the amount of time and effort you have been able to
devote to the assignments. Smart people may have priorities other than getting a high grade in
this course, and that is their prerogative.
VII: Academic Integrity and the Catawba College Student
Honor Code
"As a member of the Catawba College community, I will practice academic honesty,
communicate truthfully, and show respect for the rights and property of others. I will also
encourage others in the community to behave honorably."
Academic Dishonesty
“Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, cheating, plagiarism, and lying about
academic work. A student who submits the work of others, whether in whole or in part, without
proper acknowledgement or permission, or who has falsified information within his own
work, is in violation of the Honor Code, and is therefore subject to appropriate sanctions
resulting from such a violation.”
VIII: Attendance Policy:
Class attendance is determined by being present for the entire classroom period (6-9:45PM and
8-11:45AM) or by posting due dates as required in the Blackboard assignments. Posting a
required discussion or any homework problems after they have been discussed in class will
result in 0 points for that assignment.
Catawba professors retain the right to fail any student who is absent from 25% of class sessions.
This policy is in the college catalog. For this course, missing the equivalent of 8.5 hours of class
time can result in a grade of “F.” At a minimum, two absences or the equivalent of 7.5 hours of
class time will result in a one letter grade deduction from the final grade. The grade letter
penalty is a straight deduction after the earned points are calculated. A student who misses class
time bears personal responsibility for completing any material or assignment presented during
missed classes (see The Catawba Catalog for details.)
Each student is personally responsible for checking CATAWBA email and visiting Blackboard
at least three times a week for changes and updates to assignments.
Examples of an absence that will usually be excused:
FIN 2535 Managerial Finance Spring 2015 Block 3
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Serious illness or injury requiring you to seek medical care and miss work for more than 48
hours prior to the online due date. If you are well enough to go to work, you are well enough to
post your online work.
 Serious illness/injury of a direct family member (child, parent, sibling) which would cause
the caregiver to be unable to attend work for more than 48 hours directly before the due date.
 Funeral of a direct family member (child or step child, parent, sibling)
 Military duty

Examples of an absence that will NOT be excused:
 Weddings including your own
 Protests, charity and fund-raising events, social or competitive events
 Work and/or business trips
 Internet connectivity problems
The online midterm and final cannot be extended or made up.
Computer Access
Reliable computer access is assumed.
Computer services can be reached by telephone at 704-637-4666. Please visit
http://www.catawba.edu/administrative/computerservices/ for more information.
“Computer problems” do not negate the students’ responsibility to submit
assignments on time. Please plan accordingly.
Appropriate Behavior
Behavior that is deemed to be disrespectful to your professor or classmates will not be tolerated.
You are permitted to remain in this course at the discretion of your professor.
WebEx to Facilitate LIVE Online Interaction
WebEx is a web conferencing tool that allows the professor host LIVE online interactive office
hours. DETAILED instructions for participation in WebEx meetings will be made available.
These are optional but attendance is encouraged.
Blackboard
Blackboard can be assessed 24 hours, 7 days per week from any computer, on or off campus,
through catawba.edu.
Students with Learning Disabilities
Catawba College complies with all laws related to students with disabilities.
Please visit
http://www.catawba.edu/administrative/support/documents/DisabilitiesHandbook.pdf .
FIN 2535 Managerial Finance Spring 2015 Block 3
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IX: Missed and Late Assignment Policy:
Late permission must never be assumed. Students are required to contact me before due
dates if you have a reason for missing an assignment. Do NOT procrastinate. Requests are
granted at the discretion of the instructor and partial credit or full credit will be given at the
discretion of the instructor. However, you should never assume that late permission will be
granted. Note: Homework due at 5:59 CANNOT be submitted late for credit in any
scenario. Homework due at 11:59 may be accepted up until the beginning of the
next class providing written permission is received prior to the original due
date.
X: Papers and APA Writing Requirements
In addition to all normal guidelines on plagiarism and academic dishonesty, all writing is to be
submitted according to APA guidelines. There are numerous web resources on APA style
writing including citations, reference pages, and the proper and acceptable use of source
material. One of the best online resources is the Purdue Online Writing Lab which can be
accessed at http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/section/2/10/. You are responsible for
complying with APA format. As a business program, APA is the only acceptable format for
academic writing. While feedback will be given on APA format, it is your responsibility to
become familiar with it outside of the classroom.
FIN 2535 Managerial Finance Spring 2015 Block 3
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XI:
Course Content & Calendar
This schedule is subject to revision and change. Additional assignments, including readings,
research, and papers, may be made during the course. Each student is responsible for any
announcement or assignment made in class. The points per exercise are noted by each element.
Note: BB = Blackboard CO = ConnectPlus
Workshop
Date
Day
Chapters
1
Mar 12
Thursday
1&2
1
Mar 14
Saturday
2
Mar 16
Monday
2&3
3
3
Mar 19
Mar 21
Mar 22
Thursday
Saturday
Sunday
3, 4 & 5
3, 4 & 5
1-5
4
Mar 23
Monday
4
Mar 25
Wednesday
6,7, 8 &
17
6, 7, 8 &
17
5
Mar 26
Thursday
1-8 + 17
6
Mar 28
Saturday
9
7
Mar 30
Monday
7
Apr 1
Wednesday
8
Apr 2
Thursday
8
Apr 7
Tuesday
11, 12, 13
& 16
11, 12, 13
& 16
9
Apr 9
Thursday
All
9, 10, &
11
9, 10 &
11
Due by 5:59PM
Due by 11:59PM
Pretest (CO)
Video Lectures (CO)
Discussion 1 (BB)
Homework 1A (CO)
Discussion 2 (BB)
Homework 2A (CO)
Homework 2B (CO)
Homework 3A (CO)
Homework 3B (CO)
Quiz (CO + BB)
Homework 4A (CO)
Homework 4B (CO)
Discussion 3 (BB)
Midterm in KH 340
Homework 6B (CO)
Homework 7A (CO)
Homework 7B (CO)
Discussion 4 (BB)
Homework 8A (CO)
Homework 8B (CO)
Post-test and Final Exam
in KH 340
Note: Business is a brutal sport with brutal consequences for lack of preparation. So is this
course. You may need to read each chapter multiple times as well as additional sources of
studying to grasp the concepts required to demonstrate mastery throughout the course.
FIN 2535 Managerial Finance Spring 2015 Block 3
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Chapter
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
16
17
Title
The Goals of Financial Management
Review of Accounting
Financial Analysis
Financial Forecasting
Operating and Financial Leverage
Working Capital and the Financing Decision
Current Asset Management
Sources of Short-Term Financing
The Time Value of Money
Valuation and Rates of Return
Cost of Capital
The Capital Budgeting Decision
Risk and Capital Budgeting
Long-Term Debt and Lease Financing
Common and Preferred Stock Financing
XII: Common Professional Component
(CPC) Concepts:
Summary of (CPC) Concepts:
Functional Areas:
Marketing
Business Finance
Accounting
Management
The Business Environment:
Legal Environment of Business
Economics
Business Ethics
Global Dimensions of Business
Technical Skills:
Information Systems
Quantitative Techniques/Statistics
Integrative Areas:
Business Policies
Comprehensive Integration
Workshop
1
1
2&3
2&3
3
4
4
4&5
7
7
8
8
8
8
5
Hours
51
5
2
2
60
FIN 2535 Managerial Finance Spring 2015 Block 3
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