Entrepreneurship and Innovation

The Bachelor of Commerce with a specialization in Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of Calgary offers students a comprehensive education in the dynamic world of startups, new ventures, and innovative business strategies. Designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, business founders, and individuals interested in developing their own innovative ideas, this program combines core business fundamentals with specialized courses focused on entrepreneurship, innovation management, business planning, and venture financing. Students will gain practical skills in opportunity recognition, business model development, market analysis, and strategic planning, preparing them to launch their own enterprises or lead innovative initiatives within established organizations. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning through case studies, hands-on projects, internships, and entrepreneurial competitions, enabling students to apply theoretical concepts in real-world scenarios. Faculty members bring extensive industry experience and academic expertise, fostering an entrepreneurial mindset and encouraging creative problem-solving. The program also offers networking opportunities with startups, investors, mentors, and industry leaders, providing valuable connections and resources for future ventures. Graduates will be equipped with the critical thinking, leadership, and resilience necessary to succeed in the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship. Whether students aim to start their own business, innovate within a corporate environment, or pursue graduate studies, this program provides a solid foundation and pathways for diverse careers in entrepreneurship, innovation management, consulting, and venture capital. The University of Calgary’s focus on experiential learning, combined with its vibrant entrepreneurial community, ensures students are prepared to make an impact in today’s competitive economic landscape through their innovative ideas and entrepreneurial pursuits.

The Bachelor of Commerce in Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of Calgary is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for successful careers in the dynamic world of business creation and development. This innovative program combines core business principles with specialized training in entrepreneurship, fostering a mindset of creativity, resilience, and strategic thinking. Students will explore key topics such as opportunity recognition, business planning, venture financing, and marketing strategies, gaining practical skills through experiential learning opportunities, including internships, startup projects, and collaboration with local entrepreneurs.

Throughout the program, students are encouraged to develop an entrepreneurial mindset that emphasizes innovation, problem-solving, and adaptability. Courses in this program cover a broad spectrum of subjects including business analytics, leadership, ethics, and sustainability, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to navigate complex business environments. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, thereby enhancing their entrepreneurial capabilities.

In addition to classroom instruction, students will participate in workshops, pitch competitions, and networking events designed to connect them with industry professionals and seasoned entrepreneurs. The program also offers opportunities for mentorship and collaborations with startups, providing invaluable insights into the realities of entrepreneurship. Graduates of the Bachelor of Commerce in Entrepreneurship and Innovation will be prepared to start their own ventures, work in innovative roles within established organizations, or pursue graduate studies in related fields.

The University of Calgary's entrepreneurship program aims to foster a vibrant entrepreneurial community on campus, encouraging collaboration and the exchange of ideas among students, faculty, and industry partners. With access to the university’s resources, including business incubators and innovation labs, students will have the tools necessary to bring their innovative ideas to life. Overall, this program provides a rigorous yet adaptable educational experience that combines business fundamentals with inventive thinking, opening pathways to diverse career opportunities in the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Commerce in Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of Calgary typically include completing 120 credits over the course of four years, with specific courses focused on entrepreneurial fundamentals, innovation management, business planning, and commercialization strategies. Students are expected to complete a combination of core courses, elective courses, and experiential learning components such as internships or project-based courses. Foundational courses in business fundamentals, including accounting, finance, marketing, and management, are prerequisites or co-requisites. The program emphasizes practical application through participation in business plan competitions, innovation labs, and entrepreneurship incubators associated with the university. Students must also engage in coursework that develops skills in leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving. Additionally, a capstone project or a thesis is often required to demonstrate integrated learning and practical readiness for entrepreneurial endeavors. The program encourages interdisciplinary learning and collaboration, often requiring students to work in teams on startup projects or consulting assignments. Eligibility criteria include admission to the University of Calgary, meeting minimum academic standards, and possibly demonstrating entrepreneurial interest or experience. English language proficiency tests such as TOEFL or IELTS may be required for international applicants. The program is designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in new venture creation, small business development, corporate innovation, and entrepreneurship consulting. Students are also encouraged to participate in study abroad programs or entrepreneurship-focused competitions. Throughout the program, students are advised to consult with academic advisors to ensure they meet all graduation requirements and to tailor their electives and experiential learning to align with their career goals.

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 Calgary offers various financing options for students enrolled in their Entrepreneurship and Innovation programs. Tuition fees for undergraduate degrees are typically outlined on the university’s official tuition calculator and can vary depending on residency status, program specifics, and course load. International students generally pay higher fees compared to domestic students, with estimates available on the university’s fee schedule. In addition to tuition, students should consider additional costs such as student fees, textbooks, supplies, and living expenses if they are relocating to Calgary.

The university provides several financial aid opportunities, including entrance scholarships, which are merit-based and awarded upon admission based on academic achievement and extracurricular involvement. For continuing students, there are also faculty-specific awards, bursaries, and competitive scholarships that support entrepreneurship-related studies. The Calgary Graduate Access Fund and Edmonton Post-Secondary Student Bursary are examples of government-funded financial support available to eligible students.

Students are encouraged to explore federal and provincial student loan programs. Canadian citizens and permanent residents can access financial assistance through the Canada Student Loans Program (CSLP), Alberta Student Aid, and other provincial grant programs. These loans and grants are meant to supplement personal savings and family support, ensuring that students can cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs.

Work-study programs and part-time employment opportunities on campus are also available for students seeking to finance their studies while gaining practical experience. The university’s Career Services Office provides guidance on securing part-time jobs, internships, and co-op placements within the entrepreneurship entrepreneurship ecosystem.

Furthermore, the university promotes entrepreneurship and innovation through various incubators, accelerators, and startup supports that may offer funding or mentorship to students interested in launching their ventures. Some programs include grants and seed funding opportunities, especially targeted at business-plan competitions and startup development.

Students interested in financing options should regularly consult the university’s Financial Aid and Awards website, as well as the specific program pages, for updated information and application deadlines. Overall, the University of Calgary provides a comprehensive support system to enable students in Entrepreneurship and Innovation to access the necessary financial resources to pursue their academic and entrepreneurial ambitions.

The Entrepreneurship and Innovation program at the University of Calgary is designed to equip students with the essential skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to succeed in the dynamic world of startups, new ventures, and innovative business development. This program emphasizes practical experience, entrepreneurial thinking, and innovative problem-solving, preparing graduates to launch and grow their own businesses or contribute creatively within established organizations.

Students admitted to this program gain a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of entrepreneurship, including opportunity recognition, business planning, venture financing, marketing strategies, and technology commercialization. The curriculum integrates theoretical foundations with real-world application, often through case studies, project-based learning, and interaction with local entrepreneurs and business incubators.

The program fosters a culture of innovation by encouraging students to develop their ideas from conception to implementation, providing resources such as mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to entrepreneurial ecosystems within Calgary and beyond. Students may also benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across different faculties, integrating insights from technology, management, and social sciences to build well-rounded entrepreneurial capabilities.

Graduates of the Entrepreneurship and Innovation program are prepared for diverse career paths, including starting their own business, working in venture capital and private equity, consultancy roles focused on new ventures, or advancing research and innovation within corporate settings. The program also aims to instill a proactive attitude and resilience, essential qualities for navigating the uncertainties of entrepreneurial ventures.

The University of Calgary's robust connections with local industries, government agencies, and innovation hubs provide students with valuable experiential learning opportunities. These include internships, workshops, pitch competitions, and involvement in startup accelerators. The program underlines ethical entrepreneurship and sustainable innovation, encouraging students to consider social, environmental, and economic impacts of their ventures.

Overall, the Entrepreneurship and Innovation program at the University of Calgary offers a rigorous yet flexible educational pathway for aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators, fostering a community of forward-thinking individuals ready to translate ideas into impactful ventures.