Small Business and Entrepreneurship

Study mode:On campus Study type:Full-time Languages: English
Local:$ 2.34 k / Year(s) Foreign:$ 16.4 k / Year(s) Deadline: Oct 15, 2025
80 place StudyQA ranking:8822 Duration:12 months

Photos of university / #universityofgroningen

The Bachelor's programme in Small Business and Entrepreneurship at the University of Groningen is designed to prepare students for the dynamic world of starting and managing small businesses. This programme offers a comprehensive understanding of entrepreneurial processes, business creation, and innovation management within a global context. Students will acquire essential skills in business planning, financial management, marketing, and strategic decision-making, enabling them to develop viable business ideas and turn them into successful ventures. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, including case studies, internships, and entrepreneurial projects, providing students with hands-on experience in real-world scenarios. Throughout the programme, students will explore topics such as digital entrepreneurship, social enterprise, and sustainable business practices, ensuring they are well-equipped to navigate and contribute to the evolving entrepreneurial landscape. The programme also emphasizes the development of entrepreneurial mindset, leadership abilities, and resilience, which are crucial for launching startups and thriving in competitive markets. Students have access to a vibrant entrepreneurial community on campus, where they can network with fellow students, alumni, and industry professionals. The University of Groningen's strong links with local businesses and startup ecosystems provide excellent opportunities for internships and collaborations, helping students to build valuable connections and gain practical insights. Graduates of Small Business and Entrepreneurship are prepared to start their own businesses, work in entrepreneurial roles within larger organizations, or pursue advanced studies in related fields. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and internationalization, this programme aims to cultivate innovative entrepreneurs who can make a positive impact in society and contribute to economic growth locally and globally.

The Small Business and Entrepreneurship Master's program at the University of Groningen is a comprehensive and dynamic course designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills necessary to startup, manage, and grow successful small businesses and entrepreneurial ventures. This program combines theoretical frameworks with practical application, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship in today's competitive market environments. Throughout the course, students will explore core topics such as opportunity recognition, business planning, innovation management, financing, marketing strategies, and digital entrepreneurship. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through real-world projects, case studies, and internships that foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic decision-making skills.

Students will also gain insights into the legal, financial, and operational aspects of running a small business, along with developing an entrepreneurial mindset that encourages creativity, resilience, and leadership. The program promotes international perspectives by examining entrepreneurship across different cultures and markets, preparing students for global opportunities. Special attention is given to sustainable business practices and social entrepreneurship, aligning entrepreneurial ambitions with societal needs and environmental considerations.

The faculty comprises experienced researchers and practitioners who bring a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience into the classroom, ensuring an applied and engaging learning environment. Collaboration with start-up hubs, industry partners, and innovation networks provides students with invaluable networking opportunities and access to entrepreneurial ecosystems. Upon graduation, students will have the ability to launch their own ventures, contribute to existing organizations, or pursue careers in consultancy, investment, or policy development related to entrepreneurship and small business management. The program is ideal for ambitious individuals eager to turn innovative ideas into impactful businesses and to develop entrepreneurial skills that will serve them throughout their careers.

Admission requirements

To be eligible for admission to this Master, you need to hold an academic Bachelor's or Master's degree from a research university in one of the following - or closely related - fields: Business Economics, Business Administration, Econometrics and Operations Research, Economics and Business Economics, International Business, Technology Management. To assess whether your educational/academic background meets the specific programme requirements, we will consider the level and curriculum of your previous studies, and the grades that you have obtained. For more information, see: http://www.rug.nl/feb/education/admissions/int/2/abackground If you have any questions concerning admission, please contact our Admissions Office: http://www.rug.nl/education/international-students/application-procedure/support/admissions-office

Other requirements

  1. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) To be eligible for admission to this Master, you need to hold an academic Bachelor's or Master's degree from a research university in one of the following - or closely related - fields: Business Economics, Business Administration, Econometrics and Operations Research, Economics and Business Economics, International Business, Technology Management. To assess whether your educational/academic background meets the specific programme requirements, we will consider the level and curriculum of your previous studies, and the grades that you have obtained. For more information, see: http://www.rug.nl/feb/education/admissions/int/2/abackground If you have any questions concerning admission, please contact our Admissions Office: http://www.rug.nl/education/international-students/application-procedure/support/admissions-office
  2. erkende verworven competenties (EVC’s) GMAT/GRE; for specific scores (and exemptions), see http://www.rug.nl/feb/education/admissions/int/2/cother
  3. cijferlijst A certified grade list(s) is considered in the evaluation.
  4. taaltoets cijfer TOEFL internet based (IBT): 90, IELTS Academic: 6.5; for specific scores, see: http://www.rug.nl/feb/education/admissions/int/2/blanguage

The Small Business and Entrepreneurship programme at the University of Groningen offers diverse financing options for its students. Tuition fees vary depending on nationality and degree level, with EU/EEA students paying approximately €2,209 per year and non-EU/EEA students paying around €9,500 per year for the Bachelor's programme. For Master's students, tuition fees are similarly segmented, with EU/EEA students paying €2,209 annually and non-EU/EEA students paying about €11,000 per year. The programme is designed to provide students with skills to start and grow their own businesses, and financial support options are available to assist students in funding their education. The university encourages students to explore scholarships, grants, and student loans that may be available through national and European funding bodies. Scholarships such as the Holland Scholarship and other dedicated funding opportunities may be applicable to international students, depending on their country of origin and academic merit. Students are advised to consult the university's financial aid office and the official programme webpage for the most current information on available funding sources. Additionally, the university promotes part-time work and internships as supplementary means of financing, supporting students in gaining practical experience while earning income. The low-interest student loans and financial planning advice offered by the university aim to help students manage their educational expenses effectively. Overall, the programme provides multiple pathways for students to finance their studies, ensuring access to quality education while minimizing financial barriers.

The Bachelor's degree programme in Small Business and Entrepreneurship at the University of Groningen is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of starting, managing, and growing small businesses. The programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing graduates to become successful entrepreneurs or to work in supporting roles within entrepreneurial ecosystems. Throughout the course, students are introduced to core topics such as business planning, financial management, marketing strategies, innovation, and sustainable entrepreneurship. They also have opportunities to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills essential for navigating the dynamic environment of small enterprises. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning through case studies, projects, and internships, which enable students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. The programme encourages an entrepreneurial mindset, fostering creativity, resilience, and customer-focused thinking. Students are supported by experienced faculty members with industry backgrounds and are given access to a network of business contacts and entrepreneurs. The University of Groningen ensures that the programme aligns with current market trends and entrepreneurial challenges, preparing graduates for diverse career paths, including starting their own businesses or working with startups, SMEs, and innovation-driven organizations. The programme’s duration is typically three years, during which students also have the chance to participate in international exchanges or collaborations, enhancing their global perspective. Upon graduation, students receive a Bachelor's degree that qualifies them to pursue advanced studies or enter the workforce as capable, innovative, and resourceful entrepreneurs or business professionals.

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