Entrepreneurship Certificate

Program Overview

Through a competency-based approach, the program provides practical skills in product development, marketing, finance, and legal aspects of startups. Learners can complete the program in as little as 6 months, gaining stackable credentials and preparing for careers in entrepreneurship or further education.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Objective:

• Equip learners with the necessary skills and knowledge to start and grow their own tech ventures.
• Guide learners through the process of building a tech startup from the ground up, from generating innovative ideas to launching them successfully.

Description:

• This program is designed to be completed in as little as 6 months.
• Learners will gain practical skills in areas such as product development, marketing, finance, and legal aspects of launching a startup.
• The program utilizes a competency-based education (CBE) approach, focusing on mastering specific skills relevant to the field.
• Learners can earn stackable credentials, starting with a certificate and progressing towards an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree or even a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree.

Outline:

Structure:

• The program consists of four courses, each focusing on a specific aspect of entrepreneurship.
• Each course is designed to be completed in eight weeks, with a weekly learning commitment of 15-20 hours.
• The program utilizes a blend of learning materials, including readings, videos, interactive elements, quizzes, and case studies.
• Live lectures are offered by faculty every two weeks or more frequently, but attendance is optional.
• Learners can access the learning environment through the Canvas platform and mobile app.

Course Schedule and Modules:

• ENT2100 Introduction to Entrepreneurship: This course introduces the "Lean Startup" methodology and guides learners through evaluating business ideas, assessing market viability, and creating prototypes.
• ENT2150 Product and Marketing Skills for Founders: This course focuses on developing product and marketing skills, enabling learners to refine their business ideas, gather customer feedback, and learn fundamental product design concepts.
• ENT4250 Founders, Financing, and Legal: This course explores the business and legal realities of launching and growing a startup.
Learners will understand the importance of cofounders, the fundraising process, legal structures, equity, and compensation specific to startups.

Assessment:

• Each course will include weekly assessments and projects to track progress and ensure understanding of the material.
• Learners will receive regular feedback on their performance and opportunities for improvement.
• The program utilizes a real-world approach, requiring learners to apply their knowledge and skills to solve practical problems and case studies.

Teaching:

• The program features a dedicated team of faculty with expertise in entrepreneurship and related fields.
• Learners can access individual consultations with faculty to discuss course content, receive personalized feedback, and address specific questions.
• The program utilizes a flexible, online learning environment that allows for interaction with peers and faculty through discussions and collaboration tools.
• Learners can access additional support through the 24/7 Learner Success team, who can assist with transitioning to online learning, creating study plans, and setting goals.

Careers:

• Completion of the program equips learners with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue careers in:
• Startup founder or co-founder
• Product manager
• Marketing manager
• Business development manager
• Innovation consultant
• Additionally, the program prepares learners for further education in entrepreneurship or related fields, such as an MBA or MS in Entrepreneurship.

Other:

• Nexford University is an accredited institution licensed by the Higher Education Licensure Commission in Washington DC.
• The university emphasizes career success and provides lifelong learning opportunities through resources like LinkedIn Learning and the Nexford Digital Library.
• Learners can participate in Nexford's Career Services program, which offers guidance and support throughout their career journey, from career planning to job applications.