Introduction to Entrepreneurship

Catalog description

This introductory course considers the antecedents and consequences of entrepreneurship. The tools developed in this course will help students understand how and why a new venture is launched and how to make that effort successful. The class will also provide exposure to basic entrepreneurial and business skills in a format that encourages dialogue, develops critical thinking skills, and promotes self-awareness and personal development. Students will also learn about the impact of entrepreneurship on the economy and society. By the end of the course, students will be able to critically evaluate opportunities, marshal resources, and understand how to manage a new venture. This is not a course consisting solely of the "nuts and bolts" of how to start a business. Students will also leave this course with a more thorough understanding of some of the key institutions supporting entrepreneurship and specific government initiatives/programs to stimulate entrepreneurial activity. Participants will also be knowledgeable about the salient issue of technology commercialization at universities, federal labs, and firms, especially the entrepreneurial dimensions of such activities. A key component of this course is spirited, informed class discussion. Offered spring semester only. Prerequisite(s) or corequisite(s): declared School of Business majors. B MGT 341.