What is Entrepreneurship?
There are many colleges and universities that offer entrepreneurship programs. These programs typically fall under the business school umbrella, but may also be located in other departments, such as engineering or liberal arts.
The most important factor in choosing an entrepreneurship college is finding one that best fit your needs and interests. The curriculum, teaching style, and resources of each program vary greatly. Do your research to find a program with the right mix of theory and practicality, classroom instruction and hands-on experience, disciplinary focus, and interdisciplinary breadth.
Another important consideration is the size and culture of the school. Some entrepreneurship programs are housed within large research universities, while others are part of smaller colleges or even standalone institutions. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Large schools may offer greater resources, but small ones may provide more individualized attention.
Featured Online Programs
Online Entrepreneurship Education in West Virginia
An entrepreneur is a person who organizes and operates a business or businesses, taking on financial risks in the hope of profit. Entrepreneurship is the process by which an individual identifies a business opportunity and acquires and deploys the necessary resources required for its exploitation.
There are many different types of entrepreneurs, and they all share some common characteristics. They tend to be risk-takers, have strong self-belief, are passionate about their work, and are innovative and creative. Many entrepreneurs also have a high level of determination and tenacity as they need to overcome various challenges in order to succeed.
While some entrepreneurs are born with these qualities, others can develop them through education and training. Entrepreneurship colleges and degree programs provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to start their own businesses, though they may not instill an entrepreneurial spirit unless you are willing to put in the work already.
Online Associate (AS)
An associate degree in entrepreneurship can jumpstart your career as an entrepreneur. This type of degree program can provide you with the basic business knowledge and skills you need to start and grow your own business. These programs will also teach you how to identify opportunities, develop and implement plans, raise capital, and manage a business. It will help you to think creatively, solve problems, and work independently. While an associate degree, or any degree, is not required to start a business, it can give you a solid foundation on which to build your success.
Most associate degrees take around two years to complete, though some are accelerated and can be completed even more quickly. The curriculum of these programs will likely include a combination of liberal arts courses and focused business classes. If you think that you might want to earn a higher degree level in the future, you must attend a fully accredited school so that your credit hours can transfer when you choose to earn a bachelor’s degree. You can even complete this degree at a school with a transfer agreement with a four-year institution, ensuring that you will have no problem transferring any of your credits when you choose to continue your education.
Online Bachelors (BS)
An entrepreneur is someone who creates and runs a new business or enterprise, especially with considerable risk. A bachelor's degree in entrepreneurship is an undergraduate academic degree awarded to students who complete a four-year course of study at a college or university in the field of entrepreneurship. The curriculum for a bachelor's degree in entrepreneurship typically includes courses on business planning, finance, accounting, marketing, and management. Students also learn about the legal aspects of starting and running a business.
These programs are very similar to associate degrees, except that they last for four years and offer many more focused business courses after you complete certain general education classes. In addition to classroom learning, many programs at this level also include an internship component to give students hands-on experience in the field.
There are many colleges and universities that offer bachelor's degrees in entrepreneurship online. Some schools offer programs specifically in entrepreneurship, while others have entrepreneurship concentrations within their business programs. Admission requirements vary from school to school but may include standardized test scores, high school transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays. A bachelor’s degree is often required for those who wish to earn a graduate degree later in their career.
Online Masters (MS)
An entrepreneurship graduate degree can provide the skills and knowledge necessary to prove to investors that you are capable, as well as providing a strong foundation in all business knowledge that can help you understand your own business, and the business world in general, even better. A master's degree in entrepreneurship can give you the advanced training you need to turn your business dreams into reality at any level.
A master’s entrepreneurship degree, whether a regular master’s or an MBA with a concentration in entrepreneurship, usually takes between 18 months and two years to complete. Accelerated programs at this level are rare because graduate programs are often already created for busy, working professionals. With a master's degree in entrepreneurship, you may be prepared to launch your own successful business or to expand your entrepreneurial interests into a new field. Your learning can be shaped into whatever you need it to be at this level to help you continue to do what you love.
Online Doctorates (PhD)
A PhD in entrepreneurship is the highest academic degree one can earn in this field. This terminal degree signals to potential employers that the holder has a deep understanding of both business and research methods, but it can also provide those who work for themselves better access to investments and capital.
While there are many advantages to having a PhD in entrepreneurship, such as potentially higher earnings and increased job security, the decision to pursue this degree should not be taken lightly. It is a significant investment of time and money, and requires a great deal of dedication.
Those who are considering a PhD in entrepreneurship should have a clear idea of their career goals and what they hope to accomplish with their research. They should also be prepared to work hard and make sacrifices, as the path to earning a PhD is not an easy one. But for those who are up for the challenge, a PhD in entrepreneurship can be an immensely rewarding experience.
Online Certifications
There are many colleges and universities that offer entrepreneurship programs and degrees, and some of these institutions also offer certification programs in entrepreneurship. Certification programs in entrepreneurship can provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to start and grow their own businesses, attract investors, or move up within companies that embrace their vision. These programs can be found at both the undergraduate and graduate levels and many of these programs are offered online, making them convenient for busy professionals.
Find Online Entrepreneurship Schools
Some of the topics covered in entrepreneurship certification programs include business planning, marketing, financial management, and human resources. These programs can help entrepreneurs learn how to start and operate their businesses effectively, even if they have gaps in their business knowledge.
Become an Entrepreneur in West Virginia
An entrepreneurship professional is someone who understands the process of starting and running a business. They are typically well-educated and have experience in the field. Here are some steps on how you could become an entrepreneurship professional.
-
Step 1: Get a degree in business or a related field
This will give you the basic knowledge and skills you need to be successful in business. Many entrepreneurship professionals have MBAs or other advanced degrees.
-
Step 2: Start your own business
This is the best way to gain experience and learn first-hand what it takes to be an entrepreneur. Entrepreneurs can learn a lot by starting a small business before launching a major venture.
-
Step 3: Work for a startup or an entrepreneurial company
This will give you insight into how businesses operate and how to be successful in the marketplace. You can learn from experienced entrepreneurs and get exposed to new ideas and technologies.
-
Step 4: Get involved in an entrepreneurial organization
This could be a business association, college club, or community group. You can participate in activities that match your interests and skills.
What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Entrepreneurship?
A bachelor's degree in entrepreneurship is a great way to begin your own business or to succeed in an existing business that is looking for innovative workers and managers. There are many things you can do with this degree: starting a company, working for a startup, or becoming a consultant. Knowing how to start your own business requires that you be able to write a business plan, raise capital, and market and sell products or services. A bachelor’s degree will provide you with knowledge in all of those fields. Additionally, a bachelor's degree in entrepreneurship can give you the opportunity to network with other entrepreneurs and learn from their experiences.
Potential Careers for Graduates
- Business Owner :
A business owner is responsible for the overall operation of the business. This includes setting strategy, developing and implementing plans, making decisions, and delegating tasks. They must also ensure that the business is profitable and meets all legal and regulatory requirements.
Necessary Requirements:
- Proven business management experience
- Entrepreneurial spirit
- Strong leadership skills
- Financial acumen
Estimated Salary
- The average annual wage for business owners in the US depends on the size of their business, what type of business the operate, and more. The average reported on ZipRecruiter, Glassdoor, and other websites that track income is between $20,000 and $120,000, so there’s no telling where your income will end up.
- Based on information from the same websites as mentioned above, and others, business owners in Tennessee earn between $44,000 and $109,000 each year, on average.
- Marketing Manager
A marketing manager is responsible for developing, implementing, and executing marketing plans and programs for assigned products in order to achieve desired results. This includes brand management, market research, product development, promotional activities, and advertising.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in marketing or related field
- 3-5 years of marketing experience
- Experience with market research, product development, and promotional activities
Estimated Salary
- The mean annual wage for marketing managers in the US in 2021 was $153,440
- The mean annual wage for marketing managers in West Virginia is $102,920
- Sales Manager:
A sales manager is responsible for managing the sales team and achieving sales targets. They will develop sales strategies, create sales plans, and oversee the implementation of these plans. A sales manager will also monitor the performance of the sales team and provide feedback and coaching to improve their performance. Additionally, they will be responsible for developing relationships with key clients and prospects.
Necessary Requirements:
- Proven track record in sales management
- Strong leadership and people management skills
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for sales managers in the US in 2021 was $127,490
- The mean annual wage for sales managers in West Virginia is $105,510
- Systems Analyst:
A systems analyst is responsible for studying an organization's current systems and recommending solutions to improve efficiency and effectiveness. This may involve designing new computer systems, improving existing systems, or developing new software applications. The systems analyst also works closely with users to understand their needs and identify problems with the current system.
Necessary Requirements:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong technical skills, including experience with specific software or programming languages
- Experience working with business users to understand
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for computer systems analysts in the US in 2021 was $99,270
- The mean annual wage for computer systems analysts in West Virginia is $79,550
- Investment and Acquisition Specialist:
An investment and acquisition specialist will be responsible for conducting financial analysis and due diligence on potential investments and acquisitions. They will also be responsible for negotiating and structuring transactions.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in business, finance, or a related field
- 3-5 years of experience in investment banking, private equity, or corporate development
- Strong analytical and financial modeling skills
Estimated Salary
- The mean annual wage for financial and investment analysts in the US in 2021 was $103,020
- The mean annual wage for financial and investment analysts in West Virginia is $74,370
- Product Manager or Product Development Manager:
Product managers are responsible for the development and delivery of a company's products and services. They work closely with other departments such as engineering, marketing, and sales to ensure that products meet customer needs and are profitable.
Necessary Requirements:
- Proven experience as a product manager or relevant role
- Strong understanding of product development process
- Experience working with cross-functional teams
- Excellent communication and organizational skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Aptitude for data analysis
Estimated Salary
- The mean annual wage for industrial production managers in the US in 2021 was $117,780
- The mean annual wage for industrial production managers in West Virginia is $112,850
- Public Relations Manager:
A public relations manager is responsible for creating and maintaining a positive public image for the company. They do this by managing media relations, developing marketing campaigns, and coordinating special events.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in public relations, communications, or a related field
- 3-5 years of experience in public relations or a related field
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong organizational skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for public relations managers in the US in 2021 was $119,860
- The mean annual wage for public relations managers in West Virginia is $103,030
- Web Developer:
A web developer will be responsible for the coding, design, and layout of websites. They will work with a team of web developers, designers, and marketers to create websites that are both user-friendly and visually appealing and will be responsible for ensuring that all website code is properly written and free of errors. They may maintain and update existing websites.
Necessary Requirements:
- Proven experience as a web developer
- Strong working knowledge of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
- Experience with one or more back
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage web developers in the US in 2021 was $78,300
- The mean annual wage for web developers in West Virginia is $60,670