Davenport University

What you'll study

This programme combines core business foundations with specialised courses focused on entrepreneurship and small business management. Typical modules cover areas such as the entrepreneurial process, small business planning, financial and managerial accounting, small business finance, marketing for entrepreneurs, operations and supply chain for small enterprises, legal and regulatory issues, digital commerce and social media for business.

Students also study topics in leadership, negotiation, innovation and product development, and complete coursework on business analytics and decision making to support evidence-based management. Learning is practical and applied: students commonly develop comprehensive business plans, work on live client projects, participate in simulations and complete internships or a practicum with small businesses or start-up incubators.

The curriculum culminates in a capstone experience where students synthesise strategy, operations and finance to present a viable business proposal or to solve operational challenges for an existing small firm. Elective options and interdisciplinary projects allow students to tailor the degree toward areas such as family business, social entrepreneurship, franchising or e-commerce.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Admissions typically consider academic transcripts, a personal statement or essay outlining entrepreneurial interests, and a resume detailing any relevant work, volunteer or business experience. Some applicants may be asked to provide a letter of recommendation or to attend an interview.

Standardised test scores may be optional depending on admissions policy; transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and may receive credit for prior coursework or recognised learning. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through accepted tests or credentials.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to start and run their own businesses or to take operational and leadership roles in small and medium-sized enterprises. Common career paths include small business owner, start-up founder, operations manager, business development manager, franchise manager, product or project manager, and consultant specialising in small business growth.

Other outcomes include roles in family business succession, positions with business incubators and accelerators, and opportunities in non-profit or social enterprise leadership. The programme’s focus on practical skills and employer engagement also supports students seeking immediate employment in local business communities or pursuing further study in business and entrepreneurship.

Why study at Davenport University

Davenport emphasises career-focused, applied education with small class sizes and practical learning opportunities connecting students to local businesses and entrepreneurial ecosystems. The university offers flexible delivery options including on-campus and online courses, enabling students to balance study with work or business ventures.

Students benefit from faculty with practical business experience, access to internship and practicum placements, and resources that support start-up development such as mentoring, networking events and project partnerships with community businesses. The programme’s hands-on approach is designed to equip graduates with the operational, financial and strategic skills required to succeed in small business contexts.