Syracuse University

What you'll study

This programme combines core business fundamentals with specialised coursework in entrepreneurship and small business management. You will study subjects such as:

• New venture creation – opportunity recognition, business model development and lean startup methods.
• Small business operations – day-to-day operational planning, supply chain basics and service operations for smaller firms.
• Marketing for entrepreneurs – customer discovery, digital marketing, brand development and low‑budget marketing strategies.
• Financial management and accounting – bookkeeping for small enterprises, financial forecasting, budgeting and cash‑flow management.
• Business law and ethics – legal structures, contracts, intellectual property considerations and regulatory compliance relevant to small businesses.
• Strategic management and growth – scaling strategies, competitive analysis and exit planning.
• Family business and franchising – dynamics of family-run firms, succession planning and franchise models.
• Innovation and social entrepreneurship – designing ventures that create social impact and measuring outcomes.
• Experiential projects – practicum, consulting projects with local small businesses, and opportunities to develop and pitch a venture idea.

The curriculum is typically delivered through a mix of lectures, case studies, team projects and experiential learning. Students are encouraged to take elective courses across campus in areas such as technology, communications and design to deepen domain knowledge for specific venture types.

Entry requirements

Admission to Syracuse University’s undergraduate programmes is based on a holistic review of each applicant. Typical requirements include:

• A completed secondary school qualification equivalent to a US high school diploma, with a strong academic record in relevant subjects such as mathematics and English.
• Submission of standard application materials including transcripts, personal statement or essay, and letters of recommendation as requested by the university.
• Standardised tests (SAT or ACT) may be optional or considered depending on admission policies at the time of application; consult the university for current guidance.
• For international applicants, proof of English language proficiency (for example TOEFL or IELTS) if English is not the primary language of instruction.
• Relevant extracurricular activities, leadership roles, work experience, or evidence of prior entrepreneurial activity can strengthen an application.

Specific admission criteria and any programme prerequisites are subject to change; applicants should check the university’s official admissions pages for the most current information.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a wide range of roles in small businesses, startups and the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Common career paths include:

• Founder or co‑founder of a startup or small business
• Small business manager or operations manager
• Business development or sales manager for growth‑stage companies
• Consultant specialising in small business strategy, finance or marketing
• Roles in incubators, accelerators, or entrepreneurship support organisations
• Family business advisory and succession planning roles
• Product management or innovation roles in larger firms that value entrepreneurial skillsets
• Further study leading to an MBA or specialised master’s in entrepreneurship, innovation or finance

Alumni typically go on to a mix of self‑employment, leadership positions in SMEs and roles within innovation teams at larger organisations. Practical project work and internships undertaken during the degree help build a portfolio of experience attractive to employers and investors.

Why study at Syracuse University

Syracuse University offers an environment that supports hands‑on entrepreneurship education through strong interdisciplinary connections and on‑campus resources. Students have access to entrepreneurship support services, mentorship programmes and campus incubators that help translate classroom learning into real ventures.

The university’s business school emphasises applied learning, with faculty who combine academic expertise and practical experience. Collaborative opportunities with other schools on campus allow students to pair business knowledge with technical, design or communication skills.

In addition, Syracuse’s regional business networks and alumni community provide routes for internships, client projects and early customer discovery — all valuable when starting or scaling a small business. Career services and experiential learning programmes are geared toward preparing graduates to launch enterprises or to bring entrepreneurial thinking into existing organisations.