Bachelor Business Administration: Small Business and Entrepreneurship

The Bachelor of Business Administration with a specialization in Small Business and Entrepreneurship at the University of Groningen offers an in-depth, comprehensive education designed to prepare students for managing and launching successful small enterprises in a dynamic economic environment. This program combines fundamental business principles with specialized knowledge tailored toward entrepreneurship and small business management, equipping students with the practical skills and strategic insights needed to thrive in competitive markets. Throughout the program, students will explore core topics such as marketing, finance, organizational behavior, and innovation, while gaining a strong understanding of the unique challenges faced by small businesses. The curriculum emphasizes entrepreneurial thinking, opportunity recognition, business planning, and start-up management, encouraging students to develop their own business ideas and transform them into viable ventures. In addition to theoretical coursework, students engage in real-world projects, internships, and case studies that foster practical experience and professional networking. The program also emphasizes developing entrepreneurial mindsets, leadership qualities, and decision-making skills essential for success in small business environments. Students will benefit from the university’s experienced faculty, who bring academic expertise and industry insights into classroom discussions. Collaborative learning and teamwork are integral components, preparing students for the collaborative nature of modern business settings. Moreover, the program offers opportunities for international exposure, such as exchange programs and international internships, broadening students’ global perspectives. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to start their own businesses, work in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), or pursue advanced studies. Overall, the Bachelor Business Administration: Small Business and Entrepreneurship at the University of Groningen aims to develop innovative, entrepreneurial leaders who can contribute to economic growth and societal development through small business ventures.

The Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a specialization in Small Business and Entrepreneurship at the University of Groningen offers students a comprehensive and dynamic curriculum designed to equip them with the essential skills and knowledge to start, manage, and grow their own small businesses. The program combines foundational business concepts with specialized courses tailored to entrepreneurship, innovation, and small enterprise management. Throughout the degree, students gain insights into key areas such as financial management, marketing strategies, organizational behavior, and legal aspects relevant to small businesses.

In the first year, students build a solid foundation in core business disciplines, including economics, accounting, and management principles. This prepares them to understand the broader economic context and develop critical thinking skills necessary for entrepreneurial ventures. The second year emphasizes practical application and entrepreneurial skill development. Students participate in workshops, business simulations, and group projects that foster teamwork, problem-solving, and creative thinking. They explore topics like business plan development, crowdfunding, digital marketing, and customer relationship management. Emphasis is placed on innovative approaches to entrepreneurship, encouraging students to identify opportunities and develop viable business concepts.

In the final year, students deepen their understanding of small business operations and entrepreneurship strategies. They undertake a capstone project, where they create a comprehensive business plan for a startup idea, addressing all critical aspects from funding to marketing and sustainability. This project is complemented by elective courses allowing students to specialize further in areas such as social entrepreneurship, digital innovation, or international small business expansion.

Throughout the program, students benefit from the university's strong links with local businesses, entrepreneurial networks, and incubators, providing valuable internship opportunities and real-world exposure. The program also emphasizes practical experience through case studies, guest lectures from entrepreneurs, and opportunities to participate in entrepreneurship competitions. Graduates are prepared to launch their own ventures or take up strategic roles within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The program aims to cultivate entrepreneurial mindset, creativity, resilience, and sustainability awareness, equipping students with the tools they need to succeed in the dynamic world of small business and entrepreneurship.

Program requirements for the MSc in Business Administration with specialization in Small Business and Entrepreneurship at the University of Groningen include a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Economics, or a related field from a recognized university. Applicants must demonstrate a solid academic record, typically reflected through a minimum GPA equivalent, and should possess relevant analytical and quantitative skills. Proficiency in English is mandatory, with accepted tests including IELTS (with a minimum overall score of 6.5) or TOEFL (minimum score of 90 iBT). Submission of a motivational letter detailing career aspirations and interest in entrepreneurship is required, alongside a curriculum vitae outlining relevant experience such as internships, work experience, or entrepreneurial activities. The selection process also considers the applicant’s academic achievements, motivation, and potential to contribute to the program’s dynamic environment. No specific work experience is obligatory, but relevant extracurricular involvement in entrepreneurial ventures, startups, or business projects can strengthen an application. Candidates must also meet the general admission requirements of the University of Groningen. Once admitted, students are expected to fulfill the coursework requirements, which include core modules in entrepreneurship, business planning, innovation management, and small business management, complemented by elective courses tailored to students’ interests. The program emphasizes a practical approach, requiring students to undertake project work, case studies, and group assignments that simulate real-world entrepreneurial challenges. Participation in internships or startup accelerators may also be encouraged. To graduate, students must complete all coursework, maintain satisfactory academic progress, and submit a final thesis focused on a relevant aspect of small business or entrepreneurship. The program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, fostering skills needed to start and grow small enterprises in a competitive environment.

The Business Administration specialization in Small Business and Entrepreneurship at the University of Groningen offers a comprehensive overview of financing strategies and mechanisms essential for the successful management and growth of small enterprises. Students will explore various financing options including traditional bank loans, venture capital, angel investments, crowdfunding, government grants, and bootstrapping. The curriculum emphasizes understanding the financial needs specific to startups and small businesses, and how to secure funding in competitive markets. Coursework covers financial planning, funding rounds, valuation of new ventures, and the management of cash flows, ensuring students develop skills to evaluate and choose appropriate funding sources. Students examine case studies of successful financing approaches in the entrepreneurial sector, gaining insights into risk assessment and investment decision-making. The program also addresses issues related to grants and subsidies available at local, national, and European levels, highlighting how entrepreneurs can leverage these resources. Practical components include project-based assignments where students simulate pitching to investors and develop comprehensive funding plans for startup ideas. The faculty brings expertise from academia and industry, providing a real-world perspective on financing challenges faced by small businesses. Graduates are equipped not only with theoretical knowledge but also with practical tools for seeking, negotiating, and managing startup funding. The program underscores the importance of sustainable financial practices and prepares students to navigate the evolving landscape of entrepreneurial finance in a dynamic environment. Through seminars, workshops, and networking events with investors and entrepreneurial support organizations, students learn the nuances of fundraising and financial management tailored specifically for small enterprise success.

The Bachelor's program in Business Administration with a specialization in Small Business and Entrepreneurship at the University of Groningen offers students a comprehensive education in the principles of managing small enterprises and fostering entrepreneurial initiatives. The program is designed to equip students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to start, operate, and develop small businesses successfully. Throughout the course, students explore fundamental concepts such as business planning, financial management, marketing strategies, innovation, and leadership within the context of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The curriculum emphasizes real-world application through case studies, project work, and internships, enabling students to gain hands-on experience in entrepreneurial environments. Additionally, the program emphasizes sustainable business practices and the importance of social responsibility in entrepreneurship. Students also learn about market analysis, business development, and digital tools useful for modern entrepreneurs. The program fosters an entrepreneurial mindset, encouraging creativity, problem-solving, and resilience. Graduates are prepared to launch their own ventures, work in entrepreneurial support organizations, or pursue further specialization or master's degrees relating to entrepreneurship, management, or small business development. The faculty provides close mentorship and supports students in developing their business ideas, including access to networks of entrepreneurs, investors, and business advisors. Overall, this program aims to develop capable entrepreneurs who can contribute to economic growth and innovation through the creation and management of small businesses.