Eastern Michigan University

What you'll study

The programme combines core business fundamentals with specialised coursework focused on entrepreneurship and small business management. You will study topics such as venture creation and feasibility, small business operations, managerial finance for entrepreneurs, marketing for small enterprises, and legal and ethical issues in entrepreneurship. Programme components typically include applied projects, a business plan or practicum, and elective options that allow you to explore areas such as family business, franchising, social entrepreneurship, e-commerce, or digital marketing.

Typical modules and subjects include:

• Venture Creation and Business Planning – opportunity recognition, market analysis and investor-ready business plans.
• Small Business Operations – processes, supply chain basics, quality and resource management scaled for small firms.
• Finance for Entrepreneurs – cash flow management, funding sources, financial forecasting and valuation for early-stage businesses.
• Marketing Strategies for Small Firms – customer segmentation, low-cost digital marketing and relationship-building in local markets.
• Legal, Regulatory and Ethical Issues – business structure, contracts, intellectual property and compliance considerations.
• Capstone or Practicum – a hands-on project such as developing and launching a venture, consulting for an existing small business, or an internship with a start-up or incubator.

Structure

The degree mixes classroom learning with experiential activities. Coursework is designed to be applicable to the realities of small- and family-owned firms, emphasising applied projects, case studies and opportunities to work with local businesses or entrepreneurship organisations. Students may choose electives that tailor the degree to their career goals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. A degree in business or a related field is helpful but not always required; applicants with demonstrable professional experience in small business or entrepreneurship are often considered. Admissions typically take into account undergraduate transcripts, a statement of purpose describing entrepreneurial interests and goals, and letters of recommendation.

Some programmes may request GMAT or GRE scores, though waivers can be available for applicants with substantial professional experience or strong academic records. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications, and should provide documentation of prior academic credentials.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a variety of roles in the small business and entrepreneurship ecosystem. Common career paths include starting or scaling a small business, joining a family business in a managerial capacity, working as an operations or general manager for a local firm, or becoming a small-business consultant or advisor. Other opportunities include roles in business development, product management at early-stage companies, franchise management, or positions within economic development organisations and incubators that support regional entrepreneurship.

The programme also provides a foundation for those who want to move into investment and support roles—such as angel investing, venture acceleration or running an incubator—or for those who later pursue further graduate study in business or entrepreneurship.

Why study at Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University’s business programmes are delivered with an emphasis on applied learning and regional engagement. Students benefit from faculty who combine academic expertise with practical experience working with small businesses and startups, and from opportunities to collaborate with local firms in the Detroit metropolitan area and surrounding communities.

The university supports experiential learning through project work, internships and connections to entrepreneurship networks and business support organisations in the region. Small cohort sizes and local partnerships help students build practical skills, industry contacts and the professional confidence needed to lead small enterprises or launch new ventures.