Presents the various steps considered necessary when going into business. Includes areas such as product - service analysis, market research evaluation, setting up books, ways to finance startup, operations of the business, development of business plans, buyouts versus starting from scratch, and franchising. Uses problems and cases to demonstrate implementation of these techniques.
The course concentrates on the planning for and initiation of a new business or a new business idea, using computer software and social media. It emphasizes opportunity evaluation, forecasting, and startup planning. This course is designed to prepare the student for investigation of new opportunity and for startup management, but not ongoing operations.
Students explore qualities of individual enterprise. They develop skills needed to advance in an ever-changing work environment. Specifically, students develop competencies in decision making, long-range planning, effective communication, accountability, responsibility, and continuing education.
This course is designed for students who wish to concentrate on strategies for career development through ownership/management of their own businesses. Although individual skills are emphasized, the focus of the course is on development of a business plan, including the following: determination of the type of business enterprise, legal considerations, location selection, financing, steps in getting the enterprise started, marketing strategy, and interaction with successful entrepreneurs.
As part of the entrepreneurship course, students may apply for the Arlington Student Enterprise (ASE) program. Students are selected to work on client projects based on their expertise in an information technology area. Students will need to demonstrate that they are highly qualified and can work independently on ASE client projects.