Graduate Certificate in Family Business and Entrepreneurship

Program Overview

The Graduate Certificate in Family Business and Entrepreneurship at Elizabethtown College equips entrepreneurs and family business owners with essential knowledge and skills in business ideation, leadership, strategic planning, and family business management. Through a partnership with the High Center for Family Business, students gain access to expert instruction and real-world projects, preparing them for success in the dynamic contemporary economy.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Graduate Certificate in Family Business and Entrepreneurship at Elizabethtown College provides valuable knowledge and develops essential skills for entrepreneurs and owners of family-run businesses to succeed in the dynamic contemporary economy. The program's coverage includes crucial aspects like business ideation, leadership, strategic planning, and effective family business management, encompassing governance, succession planning, enhanced by expert instruction through a strategic partnership with the High Center for Family Business.

Objectives:

• Analyze the critical steps involved in initiating, innovating, and fostering business growth.
• Evaluate and understand the intricate strategies required to operate a flourishing business enterprise.
• Articulate leadership principles and techniques to maximize business performance.
• Critically examine governance models and succession planning strategies as integral components of a business model.
• Develop comprehensive business plans for new entrepreneurial ventures or potential innovations.

Outline:

Module 1: Introduction to Family Business and Entrepreneurship

• Explores the fundamental concepts, theories, and practices of family businesses and entrepreneurship.
• Examines the unique challenges and opportunities faced by family-owned businesses.
• Provides an overview of the legal and tax considerations related to family businesses.

Module 2: Leadership and Management in Family Businesses

• Focuses on developing leadership and management skills for family businesses.
• Covers topics such as communication, conflict resolution, and decision-making in family businesses.
• Prepares students to effectively manage the unique challenges of leading a family business.

Module 3: Strategic Planning for Family Businesses

• Teaches students how to develop and implement strategic plans for family businesses.
• Covers topics such as market analysis, competitive analysis, and financial planning.
• Provides students with the tools they need to make informed decisions about the future of their family business.

Module 4: Family Business Governance

• Examines the principles and practices of effective family business governance.
• Covers topics such as board structure, succession planning, and conflict resolution.
• Prepares students to ensure the long-term sustainability of their family business.

Assessment:

The Graduate Certificate in Family Business and Entrepreneurship utilizes a comprehensive assessment system that encompasses a variety of methods to evaluate students' learning and progress throughout the program. These methods may include:

• Case studies
• Presentations
• Group projects
• Written assignments
• Exams
• Participation in discussions
• Feedback from industry experts
• Completion of a business plan
• Capstone project

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The program employs a diverse range of teaching approaches to cater to different learning styles and preferences, including:

• Lectures
• Case studies
• Simulations
• Role-playing
• Guest speakers
• Online discussion boards
• Virtual networking events

Faculty:

The program's faculty comprises experienced educators and industry professionals who possess extensive knowledge and expertise in family business and entrepreneurship. They are dedicated to providing students with a high-quality learning experience that prepares them for success in the field.

Unique Approaches:

• Partnership with the High Center for Family Business:
This partnership provides students with access to a wealth of resources and expertise in family business management and entrepreneurship.
• One-on-one Coaching:
Students have the opportunity to work with experienced coaches who provide guidance and support throughout the program.
• Real-World Projects:
Students are engaged in real-world projects that allow them to apply their learnings to practical business situations.
• Capstone Project:
The capstone project provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of family business and entrepreneurship by developing a comprehensive business plan.

Careers:

Graduates of the Graduate Certificate in Family Business and Entrepreneurship are well-positioned for a wide range of career opportunities in family and non-family businesses, including:

• Business ownership and management
• Family business consulting
• Strategic planning and development
• Succession planning and management
• Corporate governance
• Entrepreneurship and innovation
• Venture capital and private equity
• Mergers and acquisitions
• Financial planning and wealth management
• Non-profit management