Kent State University

What you'll study

The programme combines core business fundamentals with specialised coursework focused on entrepreneurship and small business management. Students build practical skills in opportunity recognition, business planning, resource mobilisation and operational management while developing an understanding of the economic, legal and social contexts that affect small enterprises.

• Core business foundations: accounting, principles of finance, microeconomics, marketing fundamentals, business law and management principles.
• Entrepreneurship-specific modules: new venture creation, entrepreneurial finance, small business management, family business issues, innovation and product development, and feasibility analysis.
• Practical and applied learning: business plan development, experiential projects with real clients, internships or practicum placements, and opportunities to participate in pitch competitions and incubator programmes.
• Supporting skills: courses in negotiation, leadership, digital marketing, supply chain basics, and data-driven decision-making to prepare graduates for running day-to-day operations and scaling businesses.
• Capstone or practicum: a culminating project that typically requires students to prepare a comprehensive business plan, execute a venture pilot, or complete an applied consulting engagement for a local small business.

Programme structure

The degree follows a combination of general education requirements, business school core courses and a sequence of entrepreneurship electives. Students can usually tailor their electives to interests such as social entrepreneurship, family business, technology ventures, or franchising. Opportunities to collaborate with the Kent State College of Business community, campus incubators and regional business networks are integrated into course offerings.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to meet Kent State University's undergraduate admissions criteria and the requirements of the College of Business. Typical evidence of readiness includes a secondary school diploma or equivalent, a competitive GPA, and a record of coursework in mathematics and English. Admissions may consider standardised test scores where applicable, but students should check current admissions policies for test-optional options.

• Academic preparation: completion of high-school level mathematics (algebra) and English; coursework in economics, business or computer applications is advantageous.
• Portfolio and experience: while not usually mandatory, practical experience such as involvement in student clubs, small business work, family business participation, or entrepreneurial projects strengthens an application.
• International applicants: must meet English language proficiency requirements and provide documentation of secondary education equivalency; details and acceptable tests should be confirmed with admissions.
• Transfer students: credit evaluation is available for prior college coursework; students transferring into the programme should consult academic advisors about applying existing credits to major requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are well placed to launch their own businesses, join family enterprises, or take entrepreneurial roles within established organisations. The degree emphasises practical skills that employers value in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), startups and not-for-profits.

• Small business owner or founder
• Operations or business manager in an SME
• Product manager or business development associate in startups
• Consultant specialising in small business strategy, process improvement or market entry
• Roles in franchise management, family business advisory, or community economic development
• Further study options such as MBA programmes, specialised masters in entrepreneurship, or professional certificates in areas like digital marketing or accounting

Why study at Kent State University

Kent State offers a College of Business with access to applied learning resources, regional business partnerships and campus-based entrepreneurship initiatives. Students benefit from hands-on project work, mentorship from faculty with practical small business experience, and access to local incubators and alumni networks that support venture development.

The university's location provides connections to a diverse small business community and opportunities for internships across sectors. Kent State emphasises experiential education, giving aspiring entrepreneurs frequent chances to test ideas, refine business plans and gain the operational skills needed to move from concept to sustainable enterprise.