Business Management Entrepreneurship
![Business owner opening a coffee shop](/sites/default/files/styles/program_medium_943x690_/public/images/2023-02/business_entrepreneurship.jpg?h=9c2070a3&itok=k_y_IsmY)
*Domestic applicants include Canadian citizens, permanent residents, protected persons and Convention refugees.
This one-year Business Management – Entrepreneurship graduate certificate will provide students from any discipline or background with the knowledge and skills to start up and maintain a small business in Canada. Students will come to the program with their own business idea and upon graduation, will be prepared to put their idea into motion.
Course instruction will rely heavily on case-based learning, allowing students to engage in real-world discussions and scenarios so that they learn to identify, process and solve a wide range of business-related problems. In addition, students will gain hands-on experience using research applications and software. Students will also learn from attending networking events and from guest speakers who are entrepreneurs and community partners of Fanshawe’s Lawrence Kinlin School of Business.
As part of the program experience, each student will create a unique business plan, based on real-time market research. The plan will include a comprehensive marketing plan and emphasize key aspects of starting and operating a small business. In addition, students will develop core financial skills while also gaining an understanding of internal control systems.
Students will be encouraged to participate and utilize the services offered by Leap Junction which include pitch competitions, challenges and additional free courses. By the end of the program, students will have the opportunity to present their final business plan to potential investors.
If you don’t meet the educational requirements for admission to this entrepreneurship program, but you’re a mature learner with a valid business idea, your application might still be considered. For consideration please contact the program coordinator with your CV and business idea.
Please note, this program requires a laptop. It is recommended that students use a PC laptop vs. a Mac laptop, as Windows is required to be able to load program-specific software. For more information on specific requirements, visit the Laptop Requirements page on the Fanshawe CONNECTED website.
Note: This program supports the Apple M1 Architecture, however, requires a MacBook Pro with the M1 Pro (or Max CPU).
Level 1 | ||||
Take all of the following Mandatory Courses: | ||||
BUSI-6016 | Business Plan Creation | 3 | ||
In this course, students begin to draft a preliminary business plan for their future business. The plan will be supported by market research and include an executive summary, vision and mission statement, analysis of legal issues and operational considerations. Through this, students gain a basic understanding of the activities and demands associated with running a small business. The business plans are presented in a series of in class presentations. | ||||
MKTG-6041 | Small Business Marketing | 3 | ||
In this course, students are introduced to the field of marketing with a focus on the small business entrepreneur. Based on the business idea, students research and analyze market selective information that is then utilized to make business decisions. Students learn the fundamentals of producing, sustaining and increasing demand for their business. Upon completion of the course, the students have a complete marketing plan specific to their business. | ||||
COMM-6019 | Advanced Professional Communication | 3 | ||
This course focuses on refining and advancing students workplace communication abilities. The advanced communication documents and strategies covered include presentation skills, research skills, business document writing, meeting and management team strategies, business etiquette, and advanced employment communications. Additionally, students learn about interpersonal and intercultural communication (high/low and monochromic/polychromic context) concepts and strategies. | ||||
COMP-6063 | Small Business Applications | 3 | ||
This course introduces students to computer applications for the small business owner. Themes include using computers and printers, file management, and utilizing the Internet for research. Specific applications taught include Microsoft OneNote, Word, Excel and PowerPoint. The course also discusses the proper integration of applications to manage various business activities. | ||||
FINA-6033 | Financial Management | 3 | ||
This course is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of accounting and financial management concepts to prepare them to assume the role of a new entrepreneur. Students gain an understanding of current cash flow, employing tools such as Cash Flow, Income Statement, Statement of Owners Equity and Balance Sheets. | ||||
MKTG-6042 | Primary & Secondary Market Research | 3 | ||
This course focuses on the collection, analysis and reporting of research data for planning, evaluating and improving marketing programs. Market research gives the small business owner an understanding of the size and segmentation of markets, competitor strategies, media effectiveness and changing customer needs. The course concludes with the students completing a comprehensive research project. |
*Total program costs are approximate, subject to change and do not include the health and dental plan fee, bus pass fee or program general expenses.