Entrepreneurship and Family Enterprise

The Entrepreneurship and Family Enterprise program at the University of Alberta offers students a comprehensive education designed to equip them with the skills, knowledge, and innovative mindset necessary for success in the dynamic world of entrepreneurship and family business management. This interdisciplinary program combines business fundamentals with specialized coursework focused on family enterprise, entrepreneurial strategies, and small business management. Students will explore topics such as venture creation, business planning, leadership, succession planning, and strategic growth, all tailored to the unique challenges faced by family-run businesses and startup ventures.

Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical experience, students are encouraged to develop entrepreneurial thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective decision-making skills. The program emphasizes experiential learning components such as project-based assignments, case studies, internships, and opportunities for real-world application. This approach ensures graduates are well-prepared to launch their own startups, manage existing family businesses, or pursue leadership roles in diverse entrepreneurial settings.

Additionally, students benefit from access to a network of industry professionals, mentorship opportunities, and entrepreneurship-focused events hosted by the university. The faculty comprises experienced researchers and practitioners committed to fostering innovation and supporting emerging entrepreneurs. Graduates of the program will be equipped with the strategic insight and entrepreneurial agility needed to navigate market complexities, build sustainable businesses, and foster succession within family enterprises.

The program is suitable for aspiring entrepreneurs, current family business owners, and individuals interested in entrepreneurship development. It provides a strong foundation in business management principles while emphasizing the specific considerations related to family enterprise governance, conflict resolution, and succession planning. Graduates will be prepared to create innovative ventures, sustain family businesses across generations, and contribute meaningfully to economic growth and community development. Upon completion, students earn a specialized credential that recognizes their expertise in entrepreneurial and family enterprise contexts.

The Bachelor of Commerce in Entrepreneurship and Family Enterprise at the University of Alberta is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for the dynamic world of business startups and family-run enterprises. This program offers a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, equipping students with essential skills in managing, leading, and sustaining new ventures and family businesses. Throughout the program, students explore core subjects such as business management, finance, marketing, and strategic planning, tailored specifically to entrepreneurial and family enterprise contexts. Emphasis is placed on developing innovative thinking, problem-solving abilities, and leadership qualities necessary for success in competitive markets. The curriculum incorporates experiential learning through case studies, projects, and internships, providing students with real-world experience and networking opportunities. In addition, students gain insights into the unique challenges faced by family businesses, including succession planning, governance, and family dynamics. The program also fosters entrepreneurial mindset, encouraging students to identify opportunities, develop business plans, and launch their own ventures. Faculty members are experienced professionals and researchers dedicated to mentoring students and promoting entrepreneurial excellence. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to start their own businesses, work in innovative companies, or take on leadership roles within family enterprises. The university’s strong ties to the business community and its emphasis on practical skills ensure that students graduate with both the knowledge and confidence to thrive in the ever-changing landscape of entrepreneurship and family business management.

The Entrepreneurship and Family Enterprise program at the University of Alberta requires students to complete a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip them with essential skills in business startup, management, and family enterprise dynamics. Students must fulfill a set of core courses including Introduction to Entrepreneurship, Family Business Management, Innovation and New Venture Creation, and Strategic Planning. In addition to the core courses, students are encouraged to take elective courses such as Financial Management for Entrepreneurs, Marketing Strategies, and Succession Planning in Family Businesses to deepen their understanding of specific areas. The program typically includes a capstone project or practical internship component, offering hands-on experience in launching a new venture or managing an existing family business. Students are also expected to complete a series of seminars and workshops focused on leadership, ethical decision-making, and crisis management. To graduate, students must accumulate a minimum number of credits as specified by the university's guidelines for undergraduate or graduate degrees, depending on their level of study. Additionally, students might be required to submit research papers or business plans that demonstrate their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. The program emphasizes experiential learning, critical thinking, and entrepreneurial mindset development. All students must meet the university's general academic admission requirements, including maintaining a specified minimum GPA and demonstrating proficiency in English. While exact course prerequisites and program durations can vary, the program typically spans four years for undergraduate students or two years for graduate students pursuing a specialization in entrepreneurship and family enterprise.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Alberta's Entrepreneurship and Family Enterprise program offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees for this program vary depending on the student's residency status, with domestic students paying lower rates compared to international students. For the 2023/2024 academic year, the estimated tuition fee for domestic students is approximately CAD 5,000 to CAD 8,000 per year, while international students can expect to pay between CAD 20,000 and CAD 30,000 annually. In addition to tuition, students should budget for ancillary fees such as student services, health insurance, and course materials.

The university provides several financial aid opportunities, including scholarships, bursaries, and grants specifically targeted at students enrolled in entrepreneurship and family enterprise programs. These awards are often merit-based and may require an application process, which typically includes submitting academic transcripts and personal statements. The Financial Aid and Awards Office at the University of Alberta assists students in identifying suitable funding sources.

Students are encouraged to explore government funding options at both the provincial and federal levels. Alberta has scholarships and grants for post-secondary students, and federal programs like Canada Student Grants and Loans can also be accessed by eligible students. Additionally, the university's cooperative work placement programs and internship opportunities allow students to gain practical experience while earning income, helping to offset educational costs.

Some students opt for private loans or lines of credit to finance their studies, and the university’s financial services team can provide guidance on borrowing options. Part-time work opportunities on campus are also available, offering students a chance to earn money while balancing their academic commitments.

The university emphasizes a comprehensive financial planning approach, encouraging students to consider long-term financial implications of their educational investments. By leveraging a combination of scholarships, government assistance, work opportunities, and personal savings, students can effectively finance their studies in Entrepreneurship and Family Enterprise at the University of Alberta.

The University of Alberta offers a comprehensive program in Entrepreneurship and Family Enterprise designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and entrepreneurial mindset necessary to succeed in various business environments. This program emphasizes the development of innovative thinking, strategic planning, and leadership capabilities tailored specifically for family-owned businesses and emerging startups. Students benefit from a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, including case studies, experiential learning projects, and collaboration with local entrepreneurs and industry leaders. The program aims to foster an understanding of the unique challenges faced by family enterprises, such as succession planning, governance, and intergenerational transfers, while also exploring new venture creation and sustainability strategies. Participants have access to specialized workshops, mentorship opportunities, and networking events that enhance their entrepreneurial skills and professional development. The university's strong connections to the business community provide students with internship options and real-world insights, preparing them for careers as founders, managers, or consultants within family businesses or entrepreneurial ventures. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to launch their own companies, innovate within existing firms, or provide expert advice to family enterprises seeking growth and stability. The program's interdisciplinary approach ensures that students acquire a broad understanding of economic, social, and managerial aspects pertinent to entrepreneurship and family enterprise management. Overall, the University of Alberta's Entrepreneurship and Family Enterprise program is committed to nurturing entrepreneurs who can lead with confidence, innovation, and a deep understanding of family business dynamics, contributing positively to the regional and national economy.