Canisius University

What you'll study

The programme combines core business fundamentals with courses focused on starting, operating and scaling small ventures. Early years typically cover accounting, principles of management, microeconomics, marketing, business statistics and business law to build a solid foundation.

• Entrepreneurship and New Venture Creation – opportunity recognition, business model development and feasibility analysis.
• Small Business Management – day-to-day operations, family business dynamics, franchising and succession planning.
• Finance for Entrepreneurs – financial planning, cash-flow management, funding sources and investor pitching.
• Marketing for Small Firms – customer segmentation, digital marketing on a budget, branding and sales strategies.
• Operations and Supply Chain – managing production, inventory, vendor relationships and quality for small-scale operations.
• Strategic Planning and Growth – scaling strategy, strategic partnerships and competitive analysis.
• Business Ethics and Social Responsibility – ethical decision-making and community-oriented enterprise.
• Experiential Components – practicum, internship placements, capstone business plan project and access to on-campus entrepreneurship initiatives.

Students also benefit from liberal arts electives to strengthen communication, critical thinking and global awareness. The curriculum emphasises experiential learning: student-run ventures, mentorship from faculty and alumni, and project work with local companies in the Buffalo region.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Typical expectations include a solid academic record with strength in English and mathematics. Canisius considers the whole application, including personal statements, letters of recommendation and any relevant extracurricular or work experience that demonstrates initiative or leadership.

• Domestic applicants – completion of secondary education with satisfactory grades; college-preparatory coursework in mathematics and English is recommended.
• International applicants – equivalent secondary credential and evidence of English proficiency, such as scores from recognised language tests or other institutional proof.
• Additional materials – some applicants may submit a resume or portfolio documenting entrepreneurial activities, internships or relevant work experience; interviews or essays can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates are equipped to start their own businesses or to take entrepreneurial roles within small and medium-sized enterprises, non-profits and larger firms seeking innovation. Common career paths include:

• Founder or co-founder of a start-up
• Small business owner/operator (retail, services, hospitality, trades)
• Business development or sales roles in growth-focused companies
• Operations manager or franchise manager
• Consultant specialising in small business strategy, marketing or finance
• Roles in family business leadership and succession planning

Graduates often leverage internships, campus incubator support and local business networks to secure seed customers, investment or employment in the Buffalo metropolitan area and beyond. The degree also provides a pathway to graduate study in business, entrepreneurship, or related fields.

Why study at Canisius University

Canisius offers a student-focused learning environment with small class sizes and personalised faculty mentoring rooted in the Jesuit liberal arts tradition. The Wehle School of Business provides specialised resources for entrepreneurship students, including experiential projects, access to local business partnerships and alumni mentors.

• Experiential opportunities – internships, client projects and on-campus entrepreneurship initiatives that translate theory into practice.
• Community connections – strong ties to the Buffalo business community, regional incubators and local employers for placement and collaborative projects.
• Support services – career services, advising and mentorship to help students refine business ideas, prepare investor pitches and develop professional skills.

The programme is suited to students who want a practical, community-engaged business education with the support of an institution that emphasises ethical leadership and service.