Entrepreneurship

The University of Utah offers a comprehensive Entrepreneurship program designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and mindset necessary to launch and grow innovative startups, manage small businesses, and lead in dynamic entrepreneurial environments. This program integrates rigorous coursework, practical experiences, and opportunities for real-world application, ensuring students are well-prepared to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship in various sectors. Students will engage with foundational topics such as business plan development, venture financing, marketing strategies, and product development, alongside courses that foster creative thinking, problem-solving, and risk assessment. The curriculum is complemented by experiential learning opportunities, including internships with local startups, participation in business competitions, and collaboration with entrepreneurs and industry leaders. Through these initiatives, students gain valuable insights into the entrepreneurial ecosystem, develop a robust network of contacts, and refine their leadership and communication skills. The program also emphasizes innovation and technology, preparing students to leverage emerging tools and platforms to create value and drive growth. Faculty members with expertise in entrepreneurship, venture capital, and business development provide personalized mentorship and support, guiding students from initial concept to successful business launch. Additionally, the University of Utah encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to explore entrepreneurship within contexts such as technology, healthcare, arts, and social enterprise. Graduates of this program are equipped to start their own businesses, join innovative startups, or pursue leadership roles in established organizations seeking entrepreneurial agility. The Entrepreneurship program at the University of Utah prepares students to be proactive, strategic thinkers who can identify opportunities, mitigate risks, and turn ideas into impactful ventures. Whether students aspire to become founders or intrapreneurs, they will find a supportive environment to accelerate their entrepreneurial journey and turn their visions into reality.

Pre-Business Courses

Complete 6 Course(s)

• ACCTG 2600 - Survey of Accounting 3 Credit(s)
• or
• ACCTG 2611 - Honors Survey of Accounting 3 Credit(s)
• BUS 1050 - Foundations of Business Thought 3 Credit(s)
• or
• BUS 1051 - Honors Foundations of Business Thought 3 Credit(s)
• BUS 2010 - Microeconomics for Managers 3 Credit(s)
• or
• ECON 2010 - Principles of Microeconomics 3 Credit(s)
• IS 2010 - Computer Essentials 3 Credit(s)
• MATH 1050 - College Algebra 4 Credit(s)
• or
• MATH 1090 - Business Algebra 3 Credit(s)
• OIS 2340 - Business Statistics 3 Credit(s)

Upper-Division Core Courses

Complete 10 Course(s)

• ACCTG 3600 - Principles of Accounting 3 Credit(s)
• or
• ACCTG 3601 - Honors Principles of Accounting 3 Credit(s)
• FINAN 3040 - Financial Management 3 Credit(s)
• or
• FINAN 3041 - Honors Financial Management 3 Credit(s)
• FINAN 3050 - Introduction to Investments 3 Credit(s)
• IS 4410 - Information Systems 3 Credit(s)
• or
• IS 4411 - Honors Information Systems 3 Credit(s)
• MGT 3680 - Human Behavior in Organizations 3 Credit(s)
• or
• MGT 3681 - Honors Human Behavior in Organizations 3 Credit(s)
• HONOR 3200 - Writing in a Research University 3 Credit(s)
• or
• MGT 3810 - Business and Professional Communication 3 Credit(s)
• or
• MGT 3815 - Business Scholars Business and Professional Communication 3 Credit(s)
• or
• WRTG 3016 - Business Writing 3 Credit(s)
• MKTG 3010 - Principles of Marketing 3 Credit(s)
• or
• MKTG 3011 - Principles of MKTG-Honors 3 Credit(s)
• OIS 3660 - Operations Management 3 Credit(s)
• or
• OIS 3661 - Operations Management for Honors Students 3 Credit(s)
• ACCTG 3410 - Business Law for Accountants 3 Credit(s)
• or
• STRAT 3410 - Business Law: The Commercial Environment 3 Credit(s)
• STRAT 5700 - Strategic Management 3 Credit(s)
• or
• STRAT 5701 - Advanced Strategic Management 3 Credit(s)

Business and Social Science Course

Complete 1 course(s)

• BUS 3800 - Business Scholars Business and Social Science 3 Credit(s)
• BUS 3810 - Topics in Anthropology and Business 3 Credit(s)
• BUS 3820 - Topics in Economics and Business 3 Credit(s)
• BUS 3830 - Topics in Family and Consumer Studies and Business 3 Credit(s)
• BUS 3840 - Topics in Geography and Business 3 Credit(s)
• BUS 3850 - Topics in Political Science and Business 3 Credit(s)
• BUS 3860 - Topics in Psychology and Business 3 Credit(s)
• BUS 3870 - Topics in Sociology and Business 3 Credit(s)

Business and Humanities Course

(Complete 1 course)

• BUS 3900 - Business Scholars Business and Humanities 3 Credit(s)
• BUS 3910 - Topics in Communications and Business 3 Credit(s)
• BUS 3920 - Topics in English and Business 3 Credit(s)
• BUS 3930 - Topics in History and Business 3 Credit(s)
• BUS 3940 - Topics in Language and Literature and Business 3 Credit(s)
• BUS 3950 - Topics in Linguistics and Business 3 Credit(s)
• BUS 3960 - Topics in Philosophy and Business 3 Credit(s)

Required Courses for Entrepreneurship

Global Perspectives I

• ENTP 5777 - Global Challenges for the Entrepreneur 3 Credit(s)

Global Perspectives II

Complete any IR designation course, 3 credit(s)

Entrepreneurship Major Sequence Courses

Entrepreneurship Core

ENTP 5910 is titled uSpark Foundry

• ENTP 5765 - Leading the Entrepreneurial Firm 1 Credit(s)
• ENTP 5770 - Business Discovery & Creation 3 Credit(s)
• ENTP 5771 - Business Model Innovation 3 Credit(s)
• ENTP 5772 - Entrepreneurial Marketing 3 Credit(s)
• ENTP 5773 - Forming & Funding the Entrepreneurial Firm 3 Credit(s)
• or
• ENTP 5774 - Funding the Social Enterprise 3 Credit(s)
• ENTP 5776 - Entrepreneurial Analytics 3 Credit(s)
• ENTP 5910 - Special Study 3 Credit(s)

Entrepreneurship Elective

Note: Special topics courses approved for the entrepreneurship major include Strategy and Technology, Student Venture Fund, and Social Entrepreneurship & Impact Investing, and Profiles in Entrepreneurship.

Select one of the following:

• STRAT 3450 - Intellectual Property-Copyright, Patent, and Trademark 3 Credit(s)
• STRAT 5750 - Profiles of Leadership 1 - 3 Credit(s)
• ENTP 5760 - Management of Innovation 3 Credit(s)
• ENTP 5775 - Intrapreneuship: Using Entrepreneurship Strategies in Large Firms 3 Credit(s)
• ENTP 5800 - Entrepreneurship and Economic Development 3 Credit(s)
• STRAT 5850 - Special Topics Strategy 1 - 5 Credit(s)
• ENTP 5850 - Special Topics Entrepreneurship 1 - 5 Credit(s)
• ENTP 5860 - Entrepreneur Studies 1.5 - 3 Credit(s)
• ENTP 5880 - Daniels Fund Ethics Initiatives Entrepreneurship Internship 3 Credit(s)

Sample 4-yr Degree Plan

Note: This is just a sample. Log into DARS/GPS (in CIS) and meet with your academic advisor to fit a program or study with your academic record.

First Year

Fall Semester

• IS 2010 - Computer Essentials 3 Credit(s)
• WRTG 2010 - Intermediate Writing: Academic Writing and Research 3 Credit(s)  - Fulfills (WR2) Requirement
• ECON 2010 - Principles of Microeconomics 3 Credit(s)
• or
• BUS 2010 - Microeconomics for Managers 3 Credit(s)
• MATH 1050 - College Algebra 4 Credit(s)
• or
• MATH 1090 - Business Algebra 3 Credit(s)
• General Elective 4 Credit(s)

Total Hours: 16-17

Spring Semester

• ACCTG 2600 - Survey of Accounting 3 Credit(s)
• BUS 1050 - Foundations of Business Thought 3 Credit(s)
• or
• BUS 1051 - Honors Foundations of Business Thought 3 Credit(s)
• OIS 2340 - Business Statistics 3 Credit(s)
• General Education (FF) - 3 Credit(s)
• General Education (HF) - 3 Credit(s)

Total Hours: 15

Second Year

Fall Semester

• ACCTG 3600 - Principles of Accounting 3 Credit(s)
• WRTG 3016 - Business Writing 3 Credit(s)  - Fulfills (CW) Requirement
• or
• MGT 3810 - Business and Professional Communication 3 Credit(s)  - Fulfills (CW) Requirement
• or
• MGT 3815 - Business Scholars Business and Professional Communication 3 Credit(s)  - Fulfills CW Requirement
• or
• HONOR 3200 - Writing in a Research University 3 Credit(s)  - Fulfills (CW) Requirement
• General Education (AI) 3 Credit(s)
• General Education (FF) 3 Credit(s)
• General Elective 4 Credit(s)

Total Hours: 16

Spring Semester

• FINAN 3040 - Financial Management 3 Credit(s)  - Fulfills QI Requirement
• MGT 3680 - Human Behavior in Organizations 3 Credit(s)
• or
• MGT 3681 - Honors Human Behavior in Organizations 3 Credit(s)
• MKTG 3010 - Principles of Marketing 3 Credit(s)
• or
• MKTG 3011 - Principles of MKTG-Honors 3 Credit(s)
• General Education (HF) 3 Credit(s)
• General Education (SF) 3 Credit(s)

Total Hours: 15

Third Year

Fall Semester

• FINAN 3050 - Introduction to Investments 3 Credit(s)  - Fulfills QI Requirement
• ENTP 5765 - Leading the Entrepreneurial Firm 1 Credit(s)
• ENTP 5770 - Business Discovery & Creation 3 Credit(s)
• ENTP 5771 - Business Model Innovation 3 Credit(s)
• General Education (SF/AS) - 3 Credit(s)

Total Hours: 13

Spring Semester

• IS 4410 - Information Systems 3 Credit(s)
• STRAT 3410 - Business Law: The Commercial Environment 3 Credit(s)
• ENTP 5772 - Entrepreneurial Marketing 3 Credit(s)

•  

• ENTP 5773 - Forming & Funding the Entrepreneurial Firm 3 Credit(s)
• or
• ENTP 5774 - Funding the Social Enterprise 3 Credit(s)
• Business and Humanities Course - 3 Credit(s)

Total Hours: 15

Fourth Year

Fall Semester

• OIS 3660 - Operations Management 3 Credit(s)
• ENTP 5777 - Global Challenges for the Entrepreneur 3 Credit(s)
• Business and Social Science Course - 3 Credit(s)
• ENTP 5910 - Special Study 3 Credit(s)  - Topic: uSpark Foundry
• ENTP Elective - 3 Credit(s)
• Bachelor Degree (DV) - 3 Credit(s)

Total Hours: 15

Spring Semester

• ENTP 5776 - Entrepreneurial Analytics 3 Credit(s)
• Bachelor Degree (IR) and Global Perspectives 3 Credit(s)
• General Elective  - 8 Credit(s)

Total Hours: 14

• Transcripts (mark sheets, school records, grades) for secondary school (9-12). Official English translations must be provided if the transcripts are only in the native language.
• TOEFL: 80 (Internet-based test), 550 (paper-based test), or 213 (computer-based test)*
• IELTS: An overall band of 6.5 on the Academic Examination International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score report demonstrating an adequate knowledge of English*

Students wishing to apply to the Entrepreneurship Major should submit an Application for Major Status in Entrepreneurship.

Students that apply to the major will be automatically accepted to the program by meeting the requirements of ONE of the following tracks:

Track #1

• B+ or higher in ENTP 5765 - Leading the Entrepreneurial Firm 
• B+ or higher in ENTP 5770 - Business Discovery & Creation 
• B+ or higher in MKTG 3010 - Principles of Marketing 
• Minimum U of U GPA of 3.3
• Upper Division Business Status

Track #2

• B- or higher in FINAN 3040 - Financial Management 
• B- or higher in MKTG 3010 - Principles of Marketing 
• Minimum U of U GPA of 3.3
• Upper Division Business Status

Financing for the Entrepreneurship program at the University of Utah is structured to support students through various streams of funding, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. The university offers several financial aid options to help students manage the costs associated with pursuing their degree. Applicants are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal aid programs, which can include need-based grants and federal student loans. Additionally, the University of Utah provides merit-based scholarships specifically geared toward entrepreneurship students, recognizing academic achievement and entrepreneurial potential. These scholarships do not require repayment and can significantly offset tuition expenses. The university’s financial aid office offers personalized guidance to help students identify suitable funding sources and understand the application process.

Private loans are also available through approved lenders, providing additional options for financing degrees when federal aid is insufficient. The university has partnerships with local businesses and entrepreneurial organizations that sometimes offer sponsorship or funding opportunities for students interested in startup ventures or innovative projects. Some students may also qualify for work-study programs that allow part-time employment on or near campus, helping to cover living expenses while gaining valuable experience. The overall cost of attendance includes tuition, fees, books, supplies, housing, and personal expenses; financial aid packages are customized to cover these costs comprehensively. The university emphasizes transparency, providing detailed estimates of expenses and clear guidelines on how to apply for financial assistance.

Given the program’s emphasis on fostering entrepreneurial skills and innovation, students are also encouraged to explore external competitions and grants designed to support emerging entrepreneurs. Overall, the financing options at the University of Utah aim to make entrepreneurship education accessible, providing a range of financial supports tailored to diverse student needs and backgrounds to promote success and reduce financial barriers to higher education.

The University of Utah offers a comprehensive Entrepreneurship program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully start, manage, and grow new ventures. This program emphasizes innovation, business development, and strategic thinking, providing students with practical experience through hands-on projects, internships, and collaboration with local startups and business incubators. The curriculum covers fundamental topics such as business plan development, financial management, marketing strategies, and legal considerations for new enterprises. Students also have access to resources like the Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute, which fosters an entrepreneurial ecosystem on campus, offering mentorship, funding opportunities, and networking events. The program encourages an entrepreneurial mindset, creativity, and resilience, preparing graduates to launch their own startups or to bring innovative solutions to established organizations. Additionally, courses may include case studies, guest lectures from industry leaders, and opportunities for pitch competitions, helping students develop their presentation and fundraising skills. The university's location in Salt Lake City provides a vibrant environment for entrepreneurs, with access to a growing tech sector, venture capital, and regional business networks. The Entrepreneurship program aims to produce graduates who are not only capable of launching successful businesses but are also equipped to drive economic development and contribute to their communities. Students often participate in extracurricular activities such as startup weekends, business plan competitions, and workshops facilitated by faculty and seasoned entrepreneurs. The program's interdisciplinary approach encourages collaboration across departments, integrating business principles with technology, design, and other relevant fields. Upon completion, students are prepared to enter various entrepreneurial roles or pursue advanced degrees related to business development and innovation.