Entrepreneurship
The entrepreneurial spirit is a mindset. Develop yours.
In the Ohio University College of Business, we recognize that success in entrepreneurship requires a broad base of knowledge, skills, and competencies. The required courses ensure a variety of rich developmental experiences that can include applied learning, case analysis, research projects, team-based active learning projects, and guest speakers, in addition to traditional classroom lectures and discussions.
This major places a strong emphasis on written and oral communications skills, teamwork, and personal initiative.
You can be assured of the academic quality of our program. The United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (USASBE) awarded us the 2015 Outstanding Emerging Entrepreneurship Program and the Deshpande Symposium awarded Ohio University the 2017 award for excellence in student engagement. Dr. Luke Pittaway was also named Entrepreneurship Educator of the Year by USASBE in 2018.
Students that major in entrepreneurship will graduate with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree (BBA).
Beyond the Classroom
In addition to the rigorous curriculum and coursework, Ohio University has a Center for Entrepreneurship. Because we know that there is no substitute for hands-on experience, our Center for Entrepreneurship empowers students to turn ideas into action by competing for capital to fund business ideas (Bobcat Seed Fund), or by bringing renowned guest speakers to campus like Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanion and Ohio University alumnus and Imgur founder Alan Schaaf.
In 2018 Ohio University opened the CoLab on the third floor of Alden Library. CoLab is a new physical space designed to enable and empower students to live and grow through creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship. It provides space for student ideation, collaboration, formal meetings, classes, prototype development and venture launch.
Looking for information about OHIO's entrepreneurship certificate?
Entrepreneurship Major Courses
View the Entrepreneurship Major page in OHIO's Undergraduate Catalog to see complete major requirements.
Core Courses
- MGT 3700 - Introduction to Entrepreneurship
- BUSL 3780 - Legal Aspects of Entrepreneurship
- MGT 3450 - Entrepreneurial Leadership
- MGT 3710 - Business Plan Design
- MGT 3730 - Entrepreneurial Business Consulting
- or
- MGT 3735 - Entrepreneurship in Practice
- MGT 3740 - Ideation and Business Models
Potential Careers
As an entrepreneur, you’ll be defined as an individual who organizes or operates a business. Entrepreneurs are commonly seen as innovators, generators of new ideas and processes. You’ll be a future risk-taker that converts an idea or invention into a business. From Andrew Carnegie, the 19th century industrialist, to Larry Page and Sergey Brin, the founders of Google, entrepreneurs are a force of change and prosperity throughout history.
If you’re more social minded, you may want to establish an enterprise that solves social problems or drives social change. By seizing opportunities to improve systems, invent new approaches, and create solutions, you can change society for the better. Consider Blake Mycoskie, the founder of TOMS, a company that matches every pair of shoes purchased with a pair of new shoes given to a child in need.
The reality is that in today’s marketplace, people with an entrepreneurial mindset are valued in all sectors of business. Entrepreneurial thinking is characterized by seeing opportunities and understanding how and when to capitalize on them. With an understanding of ideation and business models, leadership, and sales, you’ll be prepared to think differently, imagine new possibilities, and create economic opportunity.
Student Organizations
Association of Collegiate Entrepreneurs
ACE is an organization dedicated to serving the needs of students interested in business ownership by providing them with the support, resources, and education they need to start successful ventures.
Enactus
Enactus|OU is a team of students who are dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and their communities through social entrepreneurship and innovation. Enactus is an international non-profit organization that works with leaders in business and higher education.
Epsilon Nu Tau
Epsilon Nu Tau is the Nation’s first entrepreneurship fraternity. This coed, professional organization will help you launch and maintain sustainable businesses. You’ll ultimately run your own nonprofit business.
Ohio University Consulting Fellows
The Ohio University Consulting Fellows (OUFC) is a professional organization that performs a variety of consulting work for clients locally, nationally, and even internationally in a team-based project style. Motivated students have the opportunity to take part in several leadership positions including serving on the Board of Directors or becoming a project lead.
Ohio University Entrepreneurs
Ohio University Entrepreneurs is an organization that gives entrepreneurs the tools to bring their business ideas to life. OUE members are taught the skills to become better leaders and entrepreneurs. Members network with like-minded people, meet and listen to guest speakers, and manage different sectors of the organization.
ThinkDesign
ThinkDesign was founded at Ohio University as an advertising agency that connects organizations with individuals who have professional media talents. ThinkDesign looks beyond traditional marketing disciplines for efficient marketing and improved publicity.
Women in Business
OHIO Women in Business (OWIB) provides outstanding support, development, and sense of community to women interested in pursuing careers in business. OWIB develops members through monthly guest speakers and educational workshops. For more information on how to get involved, contact Liz Doyle at ed962710@ohio.edu.