University of Michigan–Flint

What you'll study

This programme blends core business fundamentals with specialised coursework focused on entrepreneurship, small business management and operations. Students study modules in small business finance, entrepreneurial marketing, operations and supply chain basics, business law and ethics, and strategic planning for growing ventures. Emphasis is placed on applied learning: courses commonly include a business-plan practicum, customer discovery and validation, and experiential projects with local organisations.

• Core business topics: accounting basics, managerial finance, organisational behaviour, and principles of management.
• Entrepreneurship and small business: new venture creation, family business and succession planning, franchise management, and entrepreneurial finance.
• Operations and practical skills: operations management, process improvement, inventory and supply chain fundamentals, and project management.
• Applied projects and capstone: development of a comprehensive business plan, practicum or internship with a small business or startup, and presentations to external stakeholders.
• Electives and cross-disciplinary options: digital marketing, e-commerce, social entrepreneurship, negotiation, and innovation management.

Teaching methods typically include lectures, case studies, group projects, guest speakers from the local business community, site visits and supervised internships. Students often have access to university resources that support startups and student ventures, such as mentorship programmes and pitch opportunities.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school diploma or equivalent. Admission decisions consider academic transcripts, a personal statement or essay outlining interest in entrepreneurship, and any relevant extracurricular or work experience. Transfer applicants are usually asked to submit college transcripts and may receive course credit for prior business coursework.

• Recommended preparation: high school coursework in mathematics and English; introductory business or economics is helpful but not required.
• Standard admission materials: application form, official transcripts and any institutionally required supporting documents.
• International applicants: proof of English language proficiency where applicable, and certified transcripts converted to the university's evaluation standard.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of careers in the private, public and non-profit sectors. Typical roles include small business owner, startup founder, operations manager, business development or sales manager, franchise manager, and consultant specialising in small enterprise growth. The programme also equips students for roles in family businesses, social enterprises and microfinance organisations.

Many students use the degree as a foundation to launch their own venture, join early-stage companies, or progress into graduate study in business, entrepreneurship or management. Practical experience gained through internships and capstone projects enhances employability and readiness for hands-on operational roles.

Why study at University of Michigan–Flint

University of Michigan–Flint offers a close-knit campus environment with small class sizes and direct access to faculty with industry experience. The university's location in an active regional economy provides strong opportunities for community engagement, internships and partnerships with local small businesses and entrepreneurial networks.

Students benefit from practical, regionally focused learning opportunities, mentorship from business practitioners, and campus-based support services that help translate classroom learning into real ventures and employable skills.