Did you know that Business is the most popular major at the undergraduate level amongst American colleges, as well as a top graduate major — especially online MBA (Master of Business Administration) degrees?
America is a nation of entrepreneurs, with many thousands of new businesses starting up yearly, but between 20-90% failing in their first year of operation? Today’s entrepreneurs need every advantage, one of which is to take an Entrepreneur-specific master’s degree instead of a general business degree. Some business schools give entrepreneurship students access to additional resources, networking, startup competitions, business labs, funding, etc.
This article will get you started on finding a suitable masters of entrepreneurship program. It ranks the top 50 most entrepreneurial American colleges, using multiple ranking factors (methodology below).
Affordable Degrees Ranking Methodology
While there are hundreds of MBA programs across the USA, the NCES (National Center for Education Statistics) database shows just under 120 American colleges that offer master’s level, entrepreneur-specific educational programs. We manually checked all the initial colleges and verified that 69 actually have master’s degree options that are entrepreneur-specific. The NCES/ IPEDS subjects we queried for are “Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations, Other” and “Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies.” This includes: master of entrepreneurship degrees; master’s degrees with an Entrepreneurship concentration; or a combination of MBA and a graduate certificate in Entrepreneurship.
We assigned a range of points to each of several ranking factors:
- 5 pts – For each entrepreneurship-specific bachelor’s degree
- 5 pts – For each entrepreneurship graduate certificate that can be taken with one or more masters degrees
- 10pts – For each non-MBA masters degree with a concentration in Entrepreneurship or closely-related topic
- 10pts – For each general MBA with no specific Entrepreneurship option (but possibly with a relevant grad certificate)
- 15pts – For an MBA with a concentration/ emphasis/ specialization in Entrepreneurship
- 20pts for a non-MBA masters with a major in Entrepreneurship or closely-related topic
- Variable – Ranked for business or entrepreneurship programs on third-party college ranking lists, such as from U.S. News or Princeton Review (details below)
Note: because of the number of colleges with multiple degree options, we chose not to include program cost directly in the preliminary factors. Instead, we collected the average graduate-level tuition (and mandatory fees) for each candidate college and used it to break ties for our ranking points. (E.g., if two or more colleges ended up with the same number of points, these colleges were sorted by increasing average cost — with lower cost ranking higher.)
Point Breakdown for Third-Party College Rankings
Colleges in this article received points if they were ranked in any of the following college ranking lists, indicated by the subheadings below. Please note that while there are other relevant third-party rankings for business and entrepreneurship, the majority of the 69 college candidates did not appear in those lists. As such, we did not include some lists in assigning points.
USWR Undergraduate Business Programs Ranking
Colleges appearing in U.S. News & World Report’s list of top undergraduate business programs received points based on their ranking in that list:
- Top 10: 30 points
- Top 11-20: 25
- Top 21-30: 20
- Top 31-40: 15
- Top 41-50: 10
- Top 51-100: 5
- Top 101-200: 3
- Top 201-300: 2
- Above 300: 1
USWR Undergraduate Entrepreneurship Programs Ranking
Colleges appearing in U.S. News & World Report’s list of top undergraduate entrepreneurship programs received points based on their ranking in that list:
- Top 10: 15 points
- Top 11-20: 10
- Top 21-30: 5
- Top 31-40: 2
- Top 41-50: 1
- Above 50: 0
Princeton Review Undergraduate Entrepreneurship Programs Ranking
Colleges appearing in Princeton Review’s list of top undergraduate entrepreneurship programs received points based on their ranking in that list:
- Top 10: 15 points
- Top 11-20: 10
- Top 21-30: 5
- Top 31-40: 2
- Top 41-50: 1
Princeton Review Graduate Entrepreneurship Programs Ranking
Colleges appearing in Princeton Review’s list of top graduate entrepreneurship programs received points based on their ranking in that list:
- Top 10: 15 points
- Top 11-20: 10
- Top 21-30: 5
- Top 31-40: 2
- Top 41-50: 1
Terminology and Acronyms
This is a partial list of terminology and acronyms used in this article.
- AY: Academic Year
- INC: Inc Magazine
- IPEDS: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System
- MBA: Master of Business Administration
- NCES: National Center for Education Statistics
- PR: The Princeton Review
- USNWR: U.S. News & World Report
Frequently Asked Questions
- What jobs are available with a business/entrepreneurial degree?
- How much can you earn with a business/entrepreneurial degree?
- What do most entrepreneurs major in?
- How do I find the best entrepreneurial school for me?
- Who are some of the most successful entrepreneurs?
- What kinds of entrepreneurship degrees are there?
- What concentrations are available in an entrepreneurship degree?
- What courses help entrepreneurs gain important skills?
- Are there professional organizations for entrepreneur students?
- What skills do entrepreneurs need to maximize success?
SUMMARY RANKING:
Top 50 Most Entrepreneurial Colleges
50. Mount Saint Mary’s University
Los Angeles, California

Mount Saint Mary’s University is one of the best colleges for business entrepreneurship.
Points: 15
Website
Mount Saint Mary’s University (MSMU, est. 1925) is a private, nonprofit institution offering top-value associates through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. Designated a women’s college, the majority of its student population are female as well as of Hispanic/ LatinX origin, and are served on two campuses plus online. The main campus has been featured in numerous popular movies and TV shows.
MSMU affordable entrepreneurship programs include an online certificate program at the undergraduate level. For graduate students, MSMU offers a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with three concentration options: Entrepreneurship; Organizational Leadership; Project Management. The program offers an optional 9-day global field study experience to MBA students in their fourth semester. Previous locations include Latin America and China, with custom experiences designed for each cohort of MBA students.
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $12,134 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- Designation: women’s college
- #students: 2,855
- #undergrads: 2,238
- Student/ faculty ratio: 10 to 1
- Religious affiliation: Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet/ Roman Catholic Church
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
49. Lenoir-Rhyne University
Hickory, North Carolina

Points: 15
Website
Lenoir-Rhyne University (LRU, est. 1891) is a private, nonprofit institution offering low-cost bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. It serves students at three locations plus online.
LRU’s high-value entrepreneurship programs include a bachelor’s degree at the undergraduate level. For graduate students, LRU has a 36-credit Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a choice of three concentrations: Entrepreneurship; Social Impact; Healthcare Administration. Students can actually get a head start on an MBA as an undergraduate, through the Bridges to Dreams program, starting in their senior year.
The university’s entrepreneurial ecosystem includes:
- Snipes School of Business
- Center for Commercial and Social Entrepreneurship (CCSE)
- Business incubator
- Global Entrepreneurship Week
- Startup Academy
- Entrepreneurship mentoring space
- Partnership opportunities with community professionals
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $10,980 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 2,742
- #undergrads: 1,846
- Student/ faculty ratio: 12 to 1
- Religious affiliation: North Carolina Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
48. Suffolk University
Boston, Massachusetts

Points: 17
Website
Suffolk University (SU, est. 1906) is a private, nonprofit institution offering best-value associates through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
Undergraduate students at Suffolk have the choice of a minor or major (bachelor’s degree) in Entrepreneurship. Graduate entrepreneurship program options include a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with two relevant concentrations:
- Entrepreneurship and Organizational Behavior
- Creative Disruption: Entrepreneurship for New and Existing Businesses (CDENEB).
Admission requirements for the MBA include at least 72 completed credits in an Entrepreneurship concentration at the baccalaureate level.
Suffolk students have access to multiple entrepreneurial and related resources:
- Sawyer Business School
- Management and Entrepreneurship Department
- Center for Entrepreneurship
- Suffolk Ventures and Crowdfunding
- Suffolk Entrepreneurs
- Startup Resources
- The Center Lounge
- E-Clinic
- Intellectual Property and Entrepreneurship Clinic (IPEC)
- Crowdfunding Competition
- Center for Entrepreneurship Case Teams
- MassChallenge
- RICE Business Plan Competition
- Sigma Nu Tau – entrepreneurial-based academic honors society
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #273 Undergraduate Business Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $39,477 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 7,169
- #undergrads: 4,862
- Student/ faculty ratio: 15 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education
47. Portland State University
Portland, Oregon

Points: 17
Website
Portland State University (PSU, est. 1946) is a public institution offering inexpensive bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
PSU offers an entrepreneurship certificate at the undergrad level. Graduate entrepreneurship program options include:
- Graduate certificate in Social Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship (SISP)
- Graduate certificate in Technological Entrepreneurship
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with two tracks (Portland, Healthcare) – no specific Entrepreneurship concentration; 62 credits; available 100% on-campus, 100% online or a mix. MBA students also have two dual-degree options: MS Finance; Juris Doctor (Law).
The university’s entrepreneurial resources include:
- School of Business Administration
- PSU Center for Entrepreneurship (PSUCE)
- PSU Cleantech Challenge
- PSU Kickstart Weekend
- E Club entrepreneurship club
- Innovation and Intellectual Property unit
- Invent Oregon collegiate challenge
- Invent for the Planet
- The Cube idea lab/ incubator
- Mentorship program
- Propel PSU
- University Venture Development Fund
- Lecture series (varies by year and department)
- Campus mentorship services:
- MicroMentor
- Business Outreach Program (BOP)
- Portland State Business Accelerator (PSBA)
- Social Innovation Incubator (SII)
- Community mentorship services:
- ADX design and prototyping facility
- Getting Your Recipe to Market (via PSU’s Food Innovation Center)
- Hacienda CDC/ Micro Mercantes incubator
- Hatch Innovation Lab
- KitchenCru
- Mercy Corps Northwest
- Oregon Bioscience Incubator
- Oregon Technology Business Center (OTBC)
- Portland Incubator Experiment (PIE)
- Portland Seed Fund (PSF)
- SCORE Portland Oregon
- TenX
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #201 Undergraduate Business Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $13,218 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 25,321
- #undergrads: 20,320
- Student/ faculty ratio: 21 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
46. Wichita State University
Wichita, Kansas

Points: 17
Website
Wichita State University (WSU, est. 1895) is a public institution offering high-quality associates through doctorate degrees, and certificate programs.
At the undergrad level, WSU offers both Entrepreneurship and Business majors and minors. At the graduate level is their Master of Business Administration (MBA) with nine tracks and concentrations including Entrepreneurship and Innovation. This is a 36-credit, AACSB-accredited program with a hybrid delivery format, combining once-a-week in-person classes plus online work.
The university’s entrepreneurial resources include:
- W. Frank Barton School of Business
- Center for Entrepreneurship
- Gateway to IP patent resources
- Innovation Fund Award
- LaunchPrep
- SBIR/ STRR Funding
- Shocker Innovation
- Shocker New Venture Competition
- VentureWell – early stage inventor opportunities
- Women for Women’s Innovation Scholarship Fund
- WSU Kansas SBDC Training
- WSU Ventures
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #201 Undergraduate Business Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $6,932 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 15,342
- #undergrads: 12,623
- Student/ faculty ratio: 19 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
45. Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, Oklahoma

Points: 18
Website
Oklahoma State University (OSU, est. 1890) is a public institution offering economical bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. It serves students on two campuses and online.
OSU offers high-value entrepreneurship degrees at undergrad, masters and doctorate levels. At the masters level is a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Entrepreneurship. This is a 33 or 36 credit, AACSB-accredited program that supplements entrepreneurship studies with accounting, business analytics, finance, and marketing.
The university’s entrepreneurial resources include:
- Department of Entrepreneurship
- Spears School of Business
- Watson Graduate School of Management
- Riata Center for Entrepreneurship
- Business plan competition
- Entrepreneurship club
- Incubation space at accelerateOSU (Stillwater campus) or 36 Degrees North (Tulsa campus)
- Pitch-and-poster competition
- Riata Seed Fund
- 3D Creative Studio/ Makerspace
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- PR: #32 Graduate Entrepreneur Programs
- PR: #48 Undergraduate Entrepreneur Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $8,460 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 24,079
- #undergrads: 20,041
- Student/ faculty ratio: 18 to 1
- Affiliation: Oklahoma State University System
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
44. Husson University
Bangor, Maine

Points: 20
Website
Husson University (HU, est. 1898) is a private, nonprofit institution offering high-value associates through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
Husson offers both degree and certificate entrepreneurship programs at the undergraduate level (e.g., BS Business Administration – Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management; Business Administration certificate; Entrepreneurship certificate). Graduate entrepreneurship program options include:
- Graduate certificate in Innovation and Entrepreneurship – online, 12 credits
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Innovation and Entrepreneurship – online, 36 credits, 12-24 months, IACBE-accredited
The university’s entrepreneurship resources include:
- College of Business
- School of Business and Management
- Center for Family Business
- Husson Stock Index
- Micro Lending Team
- Sigma Nu Tau entrepreneurship honor society
- Internship opportunities (undergrad)
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: Undergraduate Entrepreneurial Schools
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $16,640 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 3,744
- #undergrads: 2,872
- Student/ faculty ratio: 13 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education
43. University at Buffalo
Buffalo, New York

Points: 20
Website
University at Buffalo (UB, est. 1846) is a public institution offering low-cost associates through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
UB entrepreneurship programs include bachelor’s degrees in business administration and in international business. Graduate programs include a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with three tracks (Full-Time, Executive, Professional). The FT track has nine concentrations (not specifically about Entrepreneurship).
The university’s entrepreneurial resources include:
- Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership
- Blackstone LaunchPad
- Business and Entrepreneur Partnerships (BEP)
- Design Innovation Garage (Dig)
- Design Thinking for Entrepreneurs (event)
- Entrepreneurship Lab (eLab)
- Get Seeded!
- Global Entrepreneurship Week
- Inclusive Launch (Blackstone)
- Innovation Hub
- Launch Summer Accelerator
- Pre-Seed Workshop
- Startup Boot Camp
- UB IEEE Innovation and Entrepreneurship Panel
- Winter Innovation Academy
- Competitions and challenges:
- Bulls Launch pitch competition
- BXLP Virtual Workshop: Wellness for Entrepreneurs
- emPower Pitch elevator pitch competition
- Erie Hack
- Health Futures Challenge
- Henry A. Panasci Jr. Technology Entrepreneurship Competition
- Innovation Sprints
- Summer Side Hustle
- WNY Student 2 Biz competition
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #81 Undergraduate Business Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $14,130 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 31,923
- #undergrads: 21,921
- Student/ faculty ratio: 14 to 1
- Affiliation: State University of New York System
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
42. SUNY at Purchase College
Purchase, New York

Points: 20
Website
SUNY at Purchase College (PC, est. 1967) is a public institution offering top-value bachelor’s and master’s degrees, plus certificate programs.
PC offers an inexpensive Master of Arts Entrepreneurship in the Arts (MAEA). The program offers a part-time option and includes a graduate capstone requirement. The latter results in students creating a full business plan. The rest of the curriculum consists of 10 courses (3-credit), for a total of 33 credits. Timeline: three full-time semesters or five part-time semesters.
The university’s entrepreneurial resources include:
- Science Entrepreneurship Awards – School of Natural and Social Sciences, via county partnership
- Shark Tank at Purchase startup competition – Economics department
- Economics Start Up Purchase Pitching Competition
- Center for Engagement
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: Undergraduate Entrepreneurial Schools
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $13,193 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 4,157
- #undergrads: 4,051
- Student/ faculty ratio: 14 to 1
- Affiliation: State University of New York (SUNY) System
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
41. Pacific Lutheran University
Tacoma, Washington

Points: 21
Website
Pacific Lutheran University (PLU, est. 1890) is a private, nonprofit institution offering high-value bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
At the undergrad level, PLU offers a minor in Innovation Studies, which consists of courses delivered by 10 different departments/ academic units. Graduate students have the following program options:
- Choice of grad certificate or MBA Emphasis in Entrepreneurship and Closely-Held Enterprises (ECHE)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with several emphasis options, including the aforementioned Entrepreneurship emphasis — 9+ months, AACSB-accredited, for both business and non-business majors. “Ten day international business study abroad built into the program cost.”
Entrepreneurship programs are delivered by PLU School of Business. The entrepreneurship ecosystem includes the PLU Business Plan Competition.
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #350 Undergraduate Business Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $30,316 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 3,062
- #undergrads: 2,695
- Student/ faculty ratio: 11 to 1
- Religious affiliation: Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
40. Oakland University
Rochester Hills, Michigan

Points: 21
Website
Oakland University (OU, est. 1957) is a public institution offering affordable bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
OU’s entrepreneurship programs include an undergraduate minor and the following graduate options:
- Post-graduate certificate in Entrepreneurship – 15 credits
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with three tracks (regular, online, Executive) and a specialization in Entrepreneurship available in one or more tracks
The university, community and state entrepreneurship ecosystem includes:
- Business Incubator and Innovation Center
- Oakland University Incubator (OU INC)
- Mobilization Zone (MZ)
- Ideas 2 Business (i2B) Lab
- Small Company Funding Programs
- Oakland Business Engagement Center (OBEC)
- Corporate R&D Accelerator
- Macomb-Oakland University INCubator
- Business Idea Pitch competition
- Entrepreneurs In Action
- Accelerate Michigan Innovation Competition (ACMIC)
- Association of Marketing, Management and Entrepreneurship
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #402 Undergraduate Business Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $18,546 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 19,013
- #undergrads: 15,543
- Student/ faculty ratio: 19 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
39. Eastern Michigan University
Ypsilanti, Michigan

Points: 22
Website
Eastern Michigan University (EMU, est. 1849) is a public institution offering bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
Entrepreneurship programs for EMU undergrads include a bachelor’s degree. Graduate entrepreneurship program options include:
- Graduate certificate in Arts Entrepreneurship
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with 14 specializations, including Entrepreneurship — AACSB-International accreditation; evening and online courses available; has GMAT/ GRE waivers for 2021 applicants, due to COVID-19 situation
The university’s entrepreneurship ecosystem includes:
- College of Business
- Center for Entrepreneurship
- Small Business Development Center
- Sales Institute
- Center for Digital Engagement
- Sesi Midwestern Entrepreneurship Conference
- Skandalaris Business Plan Competition
- Elevator Pitch Competition
- Entrepreneur Speakers Series
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #308 Undergraduate Business Programs
- PR: #44 Graduate Entrepreneur Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $19,012 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 17,784
- #undergrads: 14,872
- Student/ faculty ratio: 14 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
38. Wayne State University
Detroit, Michigan

Points: 22
Website
Wayne State University (WSU, est. 1868) is a public institution offering best-value bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
WSU offers high-quality entrepreneurship certificate programs at the undergraduate level. At the graduate level, entrepreneurship program options include:
- Graduate certificate in Entrepreneurship and Innovation – 15 credits
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with 13 optional concentrations, including the Entrepreneurship and Innovation concentration — AACSB-accredited, GMAT waiver available
Programs are delivered through the Mike Ilitch School of Business.
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #201 Undergraduate Business Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $18,226 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 26,824
- #undergrads: 17,643
- Student/ faculty ratio: 14 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
37. Ball State University
Muncie, Indiana

Points: 23
Website
Ball State University (BSU, est. 1918) is a public institution offering associates through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
BSU entrepreneurial programs include an undergrad minor and bachelor’s degree in Entrepreneurial Management, and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Entrepreneurship.
The university’s entrepreneurial resources include:
- Entrepreneurship Center
- Entrepreneurial Experience Lecture Series
- Cardinals for Change Competition
- Pre-Seed Fund
- E-Day
- Learning Journeys
- Mentor Days
- Collegiate Entrepreneurs’ Organization
- Venture Planning competition
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #157 Undergraduate Business Programs
- PR: #28 Undergraduate Entrepreneur Programs
- U.S. Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship: National Model Undergraduate Entrepreneurship Program (2013)
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $9,512 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 22,443
- #undergrads: 16,702
- Student/ faculty ratio: 14 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
36. Lindenwood University
Saint Charles, Missouri

Points: 30
Website
Lindenwood University (LU, est. 1827) is a private, nonprofit institution offering best-value bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. Originally founded as a girl’s school, it claims the title of the “first women’s college west of the Mississippi,” and is currently co-ed.
LU’s affordable entrepreneurship programs include two bachelor’s degrees (Fashion, Music) and the following master’s degrees:
- Master of Science in Fashion Business and Entrepreneurship (MS-FBE) – online or on-campus
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with 12 emphasis options (not Entrepreneurship-specific) – online or on-campus
The university’s entrepreneurship ecosystem includes:
- Robert W. Plaster School of Business and Entrepreneurship
- Ice House Entrepreneurship Program
- John W. Hammond Institute for Free Enterprise
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: Top Performers on Social Mobility
- USNWR: National Universities
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $18,100 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 8,392
- #undergrads: 5,654
- Student/ faculty ratio: 12 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
35. Rosemont College
Rosemont, Pennsylvania
Points: 30
Website
Rosemont College (RC, est. 1921) is a private, nonprofit institution offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees, plus certificate programs.
RC’s entrepreneurship program options at the graduate level include:
- Grad certificate in Entrepreneurship – online, 5 courses
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) – does not require GRE nor MCAT
The college also has an entrepreneurship-related Master of Science in Strategic Leadership (MSSL). The aforementioned grad certificate can be taken with either the MSSL or MBA.
Students have access to the recently launched Start Your Business Incubator, amongst other entrepreneurial resources.
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #15 Top Performers on Social Mobility
- USNWR: Regional Universities North
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $13,140 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 902
- #undergrads: 518
- Student/ faculty ratio: 12 to 1
- Affiliation: Society of the Holy Child Jesus
- Religious affiliation: Catholic
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
34. University of Houston-Victoria
Victoria, Texas
Points: 30
Website
University of Houston-Victoria (UHV, est. 1973) is a public institution offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
UHV offers the following graduate entrepreneurship program options:
- Strategic Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Entrepreneurship – available online and on-campus
- Global MBA with five concentrations – available online and on-campus
The university previously had an MS Economic Development and Entrepreneurship degree, delivered through the Economics department. Currently both Entrepreneurship and Economic Development are concentration options for the MBA programs.
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #13 Undergraduate Entrepreneurial Schools
- USNWR: #81 Undergraduate Business Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $7,899 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 4,506
- #undergrads: 3,367
- Student/ faculty ratio: 18 to 1
- Affiliation: University of Houston System
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
33. American University
Washington, District of Columbia
Points: 32
Website
American University (AU, est. 1893) is a private, nonprofit institution offering high-quality associates through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. It is affiliated with the United Methodist Church, but has no restrictions on a student’s religious background.
AU’s entrepreneurship programs include an undergraduate degree plus the following graduate options:
- Graduate certificate in Entrepreneurship – 12 credits
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a specialization in Entrepreneurship
- Master of Arts in Media Entrepreneurship (MAME) – Note: was not accepting students for 2020-21 AY
In addition to these specific Entrepreneurship programs, the university actually has several other master’s degrees and another certificate program that touch upon or focus on Entrepreneurship, for a total of two certificates and seven master’s degree options across one college and three schools.
The university’s entrepreneur resources include:
- Kogod School of Business
- AU Center for Innovation (AUCI)
- Entrepreneurship Incubator
- Experiential learning
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #97 Undergraduate Business Programs
- PR: #35 Graduate Entrepreneur Programs
- PR: Top 50 Best Undergraduate Programs for Entrepreneurs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $31,113 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 14,318
- #undergrads: 8,527
- Student/ faculty ratio: 11 to 1
- Religious affiliation: United Methodist Church
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
32. Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, Michigan
Points: 32
Website
Central Michigan University (CMU, est. 1892) is a public institution offering economical bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
CMU top-value Entrepreneurship programs include a BAA in Entrepreneurship, a bachelor’s minor, and the following master’s program options:
- Master of Entrepreneurial Ventures (MEV) – online, one year FT or two years PT, previously known as Master of Entrepreneurial Transactions (MET)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) – AACSB-accredited, online, general degree plus 11 concentrations including Entrepreneurship
Both master’s degrees are offered through CMU’s Global Campus.
The university’s entrepreneurship resources include:
- College of Business Administration/ Entrepreneurship Department
- Isabella Bank Institute for Entrepreneurship (IBIE)
- CMU Research Corp., for various business acceleration support services
- New Venture Competition (NVC)
- NVC Summer Accelerator Program
- Make-A-Pitch Competition
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #235 Undergraduate Business Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $17,150 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 19,362
- #undergrads: 14,627
- Student/ faculty ratio: 19 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
31. University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, South Carolina

University of South Carolina-Columbia has top-ranked entrepreneurship graduate programs.
Points: 35
Website
University of South Carolina-Columbia (USC, est. 1801) is a public institution offering top-value associates through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
USC offers affordable entrepreneurship programs at three levels. At the bachelor’s level, it has a Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship, and a minor in Entrepreneurship as part of a bachelor’s degree in music. At the graduate level is a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) and the following master’s programs:
- Master of Science in Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurial Engineering (MS-TIEE)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with three tracks (Accelerated, International, Professional) – no specific entrepreneurship concentration
The university’s entrepreneurial resources include the following:
- Darla Moore School of Business
- Faber Entrepreneurship Center
- Spark-Carolina’s Music Leadership Laboratory
- Special quad housing for Entrepreneurship students studying on-campus
- National Science Foundation Innovation Corps Program
USC’s graduates have collectively ranked highly on a national basis for number of startups launched.
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #1 International MBA
- USNWR: #38 Undergraduate Business Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $14,137 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 35,364
- #undergrads: 27,502
- Student/ faculty ratio: 15 to 1
- Affiliation: University of South Carolina System
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
30. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Troy, New York

Points: 40
Website
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI, est. 1824) is a private, nonprofit institution offering bachelor’s through doctorate degrees.
High-value Entrepreneurship programs at RPI are primarily offered through its Lally School of Management. At the undergrad level is RPI’s Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA). At the graduate level is a Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) and the following master’s degrees:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Technological Entrepreneurship
- Master of Science in Technology Commercialization and Entrepreneurship (MS-TCE) – not currently accepting students
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #81 Undergraduate Business Programs
- Peterson’s Guide: Most Innovative Programs (for the MS-TCE)
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $56,708 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 7,528
- #undergrads: 6,241
- Student/ faculty ratio: 12 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
29. Northwestern University
Evanston, Illinois
Points: 40
Website
Northwestern University (NU, est. 1851) is a private, nonprofit institution offering bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
NU’s high-value undergrad entrepreneurship programs include a certificate and a bachelor’s degree. Graduate program options include:
- Grad certificate Management for Scientists and Engineers (MSE)
- Graduate Minor in Entrepreneurship – “Graduate Minor in Entrepreneurship is open to master’s students from McCormick and The Graduate School only”
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with six tracks (Full-Time 1yr, Part-Time 2yr, PT, MBAi, Executive, International Executive) – Entrepreneurship pathway for FT track. Dual-degree options available.
Alternative options include the Master of Science in Leadership for Creative Enterprises (MSLCE).
NU’s entrepreneurship resources include:
- Kellogg School of Management
- Levy Institute for Entrepreneurial Practice
- Kellogg Innovation and Entrepreneurship Initiative (KIEI)
- Farley Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (McCormick School of Engineering)
- Yearly venture challenge (Levy Institute)
- Summer accelerator
- Various supportive events
- Student business idea support
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #3 Business Schools
- PR: #3 Graduate Entrepreneur Programs
- INC: #17 MBA Entrepreneur Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $56,567 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 22,448
- #undergrads: 8,682
- Student/ faculty ratio: 6 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
28. Southern Methodist University
Dallas, Texas
Points: 40
Website
Southern Methodist University (SMU, est. 1911) is a private, nonprofit institution offering top-value bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
SMU undergrad students can chose a Bachelor of Business Administration. Graduate students have the following entrepreneurship program options:
- Master of Science in Engineering Entrepreneurship (MSSE)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with six tracks and a concentration in Strategy and Entrepreneurship (1-year, 2-year, Direct or Professional tracks)
- Blockchain Entrepreneurship Program – non-degree program on starting a business, offered through the Caruth Institute
The MBA can be combined with the MSSE as part of a dual-degree option.
The SMU entrepreneur resources include:
- Cox School of Business
- Department of Strategy, Entrepreneurship, and Business Economics
- Caruth Institute for Entrepreneurship – offers a non-degree program in Starting a Business
- Entrepreneurship Club
- Summer Business Institute (for non-business majors and new baccalaureate graduates)
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #53 Undergraduate Business Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $47,256 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 11,824
- #undergrads: 6,710
- Student/ faculty ratio: 11 to 1
- Affiliation: United Methodist Church
- Religious affiliation: United Methodist
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
27. George Washington University
Washington, D.C.
George Washington University (GWU, est. 1821) is a private, nonprofit institution offering associates through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. It serves students at three campuses and online.
GWU’s high-value entrepreneurship program options for graduate students include:
- Graduate certificate in Innovation, Creativity and Entrepreneurship (ICE) – 12 credits, online or main campus
- Graduate certificate in Management of Technology and Innovation (MTI) – 12 credits
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with four tracks (no specific Entrepreneurship option)
At the undergrad level, students have a choice of a bachelor’s degree with a concentration in Clinical Practice Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CPIE), offered through the School of Medicine and Health Sciences.
The university’s entrepreneurial ecosystem includes:
- GW School of Business
- Office of Innovation and Entrepreneurship courses
- Center for Entrepreneurial Excellence
- Pitch George competition
- New Venture competition
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #44 Undergraduate Business Programs
- PR: #27 Graduate Entrepreneur Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $31,824 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 27,814
- #undergrads: 12,484
- Student/ faculty ratio: 13 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
26. Houston Baptist University
Houston, Texas

Points: 40
Website
Houston Baptist University (HBU, est. 1960) is a private, nonprofit institution offering low-cost bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
Graduate entrepreneurship program options at HBU include:
- Grad certificate in Entrepreneurial Leadership
- Master of Science in Management and Entrepreneurship (MSME) – 100% online only
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with six specializations including Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship students have access to resources, divisions, events, etc. including:
- Archie W. Dunham College of Business
- McNair Center for Entrepreneurship and Free Enterprise
- McNair Entrepreneurship Development Board
- Case studies
- Competitions
- Live experiences
- Mentorship
- Micro Seed Fund
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $12,850 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 3,741
- #undergrads: 2,632
- Student/ faculty ratio: 14 to 1
- Religious affiliation: Baptist
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
25. CUNY Bernard M Baruch College
New York, New York

Points: 40
Website
CUNY Bernard M Baruch College (Baruch, est. 1919) is a public institution offering inexpensive bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
Baruch graduate students have the following entrepreneurship program options:
- Executive Master’s of Science in Entrepreneurship (EMSE) – for students with at least five years of business experience
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Management / Entrepreneurship
Some of the resources, divisions, opportunities, etc., that entrepreneurship students have access to include:
- Zicklin School of Business
- Lawrence N. Field Center for Entrepreneurship
- Baruch’s Small Business Development Center Business (SBDC) and Advisors
- CUNY Startups incubator
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #81 Undergraduate Business Programs
- PR: Top 25 Schools for Entrepreneurship Studies (2017)
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $11,450 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 18,679
- #undergrads: 15,482
- Student/ faculty ratio: 19 to 1
- Affiliation: City University of New York System
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
24. University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Lowell, Massachusetts

Points: 42
Website
University of Massachusetts-Lowell (UML, est. 1894) is a public institution offering best-value associates through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
At the undergraduate level, UML offers a high-value Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) with an Entrepreneurship concentration. Graduate entrepreneurship program options include:
- Grad certificate in Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- Master of Science in Entrepreneurship (MSE)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Entrepreneurship
The university also has a MS Software Entrepreneurship which is no longer accepting applications. At the doctorate level, UML has a Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) with an Entrepreneurship option.
Students have access to a number of entrepreneurship-related resources, divisions, etc., including:
- Manning School of Business
- Wilson Center for Entrepreneurship
- Global Entrepreneurship Exchange
- UMass Lowell Marketing, Entrepreneurship and Innovation Program
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #201 Undergraduate Business Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $15,160 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 18,352
- #undergrads: 14,170
- Student/ faculty ratio: 17 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
23. University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, Wisconsin

Points: 42
Website
University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW, est. 1848) is a public institution offering affordable bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
Graduate students have the following entrepreneurship program options:
- Grad certificate in Entrepreneurship
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) full-time track with grad certificate combo. Other tracks (Professional, Executive) may allow the certificate
UW also offers undergraduate certificates in Entrepreneurship.
Entrepreneurship students have access to a variety of relevant resources, divisions, events, etc., including:
- School of Business
- Weinert Center for Entrepreneurship – suited to students with an interest in entrepreneurship and enterprise development
- Seminars
- Experiential opportunities
- Yearly entrepreneurial boot camp
- Weinert Applied Ventures in Entrepreneurship class
- Various support services for entrepreneurial students
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #16 Undergraduate Business Programs
- PR: #36 Graduate Entrepreneur Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $12,180 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 44,257
- #undergrads: 32,399
- Student/ faculty ratio: 17 to 1
- Affiliation: University of Wisconsin System
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
22. Lehigh University
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Points: 45
Website
Lehigh University (LU, est. 1865) is a private, nonprofit institution offering best-value bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
Undergrad Lehigh students can take courses in Technical Entrepreneurship, including in the form of a Minor. Graduate entrepreneurship program options include:
- Master’s Certificate in Technical Entrepreneurship – 15 credits, part-time, online or on-campus
- Master of Engineering (MEng) in Technical Entrepreneurship (TE) – open to qualified, entrepreneurial-minded students with any bachelor’s degree
- Flex MBA (Master of Business Administration) with Corporate Entrepreneurship concentration or VENTURESeries MBA Track
Lehigh teaches students a “global entrepreneurial mindset” in its programs. Students also have access to a variety of resources including:
- Baker Institute for Entrepreneurship, Creativity and Innovation
- Events – dinners, immersion programs, etc.
- LehighSiliconValley immersion opportunities with alumni
- Hatchery student idea accelerator
- EUREKA! ventures competitions
- Lehigh@NasdaqCenter
- Iacocca Institute
- Lehigh University Small Business Development Center
- Ben Franklin Technology Partners
- Keystone Innovation Zone
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #81 Undergraduate Business Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $27,130 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 6,953
- #undergrads: 5,178
- Student/ faculty ratio: 9 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
21. Temple University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Points: 45
Website
Temple University (TU, est. 1884) is a public institution offering high-value associates through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
Entrepreneurship programs are delivered primarily through the Fox School of Business. Undergrad students have a choice of a certificate or degree. Doctorate students have a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA). Master’s level students have the following entrepreneurship program options:
- Grad certificate in Entrepreneurship and Technology Commercialization (ETC)
- Master of Science in Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship (MS-IME) with three relevant concentrations: Entrepreneurship; Innovative Strategy; Technology and Innovation Management
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with 16 concentrations including Entrepreneurship
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #97 Undergraduate Business Programs
- PR: #24 Graduate Entrepreneur Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $17,846 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 38,794
- #undergrads: 28,726
- Student/ faculty ratio: 13 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
20. Texas A&M University-College Station
College Station, Texas

Points: 47
Website
Texas A&M University-College Station (TAMU, est. 1871) is a public institution offering cheap bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
TAMU offers the following high-quality graduate entrepreneurship program options:
- Master’s of Science in Entrepreneurial Leadership (MS-ENLD) – curriculum is also available to students in the PPA (Professional Program in Accounting)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with four tracks: Full-Time; Professional; Executive; Academic track with optional 9-12 credit graduate certificate. The FT track has a Entrepreneurship concentration, and the Professional track has several elective courses in Entrepreneurship.
TAMU entrepreneurship students have access to a variety of resources, including:
- Mays Business School
- McFerrin Center for Entrepreneurship – has an Engineering Entrepreneurship Program (EEP) with courses and certificate programs
- New business planning
- Networking events
- Research opportunities
- Workshops supporting ventures and relevant campus activities
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #24 Undergraduate Business Programs
- PR: #26 Graduate Entrepreneur Programs
- PR: #35 Undergraduate Entrepreneur Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $10,173 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 68,726
- #undergrads: 53,791
- Student/ faculty ratio: 21 to 1
- Affiliation: Texas A&M University System
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
19. University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus
Norman, Oklahoma
Points: 50
Website
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus (OU, est. 1890) is a public institution offering low-cost bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
Graduate students have the following entrepreneurship program options:
- Grad certificate in Entrepreneurship
- Grad certificate in Arts Management and Entrepreneurship
- Professional Master of Business Administration (MBA), which can be taken with either grad certificate.
At the doctorate level, OU offers a PhD in Business Administration with an emphasis in Entrepreneurship.
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #27 Undergraduate Entrepreneurial Schools
- USNWR: #53 Undergraduate Business Programs
- PR: #8 Graduate Entrepreneur Programs
- PR: #23 Undergraduate Entrepreneur Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $8,577 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 28,079
- #undergrads: 21,768
- Student/ faculty ratio: 17 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
18. University of South Florida
Tampa, Florida

Points: 53
Website
University of South Florida (USF, est. 1956) is a public institution offering inexpensive associates through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
Graduate entrepreneurship students have a number of program options. At the doctorate level, there is both a Doctorate and PhD in Business Administration. At the master’s level:
- Two certificates in entrepreneurship – 12-credits, applicable to grad degree, with approval
- Master of Science in Entrepreneurship in Applied Technologies (MSEAT)
- General Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree – no specific Entrepreneurship option
Programs are delivered by the Muma College of Business. Students have access to resources through the USF Center for Entrepreneurship, which is campus-wide and interdisciplinary.
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #132 Undergraduate Business Programs
- PR: #18 Graduate Entrepreneur Programs
- PR: #9 Graduate Entrepreneur Programs amongst Publics in Florida
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $10,428 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 44,246
- #undergrads: 32,684
- Student/ faculty ratio: 23 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
17. University of Arizona
Tucson, Arizona

Points: 55
Website
University of Arizona (UA, est. 1885) is a public institution offering inexpensive bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
Graduate students have two top-value entrepreneurship program options:
- Master of Science in Entrepreneurship (MSE) – online
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with five concentrations including Entrepreneurship.
MBA students at UA have a number of dual-degree options available. If participating, they can combine their MBA with any of the following master’s degree programs: Accounting; Business Analytics; Finance; Management Information Systems; Marketing.
Students have access to Entrepreneurship resources through the Eller College of Management and the McGuire Center for Entrepreneurship.
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #23 Undergraduate Entrepreneurial Schools
- USNWR: #32 Undergraduate Business Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $13,271 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 44,577
- #undergrads: 34,516
- Student/ faculty ratio: 15 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
16. Illinois Institute of Technology
Chicago, Illinois

Points: 57
Website
Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT, est. 1890) is a private, nonprofit institution offering high-quality bachelor’s through doctorate degrees.
A Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) is available to IIT undergraduate students. Graduate students have several entrepreneurship program options:
- Graduate certificate in Economic Development and Social Entrepreneurship (EDSE)
- Grad cert in Entrepreneurial Finance
- Grad cert in Information Technology Innovation, Leadership, and Entrepreneurship (College of Computing)
- Professional cert: IT Leadership, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship
- Professional MAS in Technological Entrepreneurship
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Technopreneurship. Available tracks: regular, online accelerated
Students have access to Entrepreneurship resources, etc., including:
- Stuart School of Business
- Jules F. Knapp Entrepreneurship Center
- Entrepreneurship Academy
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #235 Undergraduate Business Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $30,937 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 6,515
- #undergrads: 3,144
- Student/ faculty ratio: 12 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
15. University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida

Points: 57
Website
University of Florida (UF, est. 1853) is a public institution offering affordable associates through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
Graduate entrepreneurship program options at UF include:
- Master of Science in Entrepreneurship (MSE) – on-campus and online
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with four tracks: Executive; Full-time; Part-time; Online; Weekend Professional. The FT track has two further options: 2yr and 1yr durations, depending on whether a student was an undergraduate business major or not. The MBA does not have a specific Entrepreneurship concentration.
Note that due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, UF’s Graduate School has changed their GMAT and GRE testing policy through Fall 2021 (e.g., scores waived for select grad degree programs).
Programs and other Entrepreneurship-related resources, etc., are available through the Warrington School of Business.
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #27 Undergraduate Entrepreneurial Schools
- USNWR: #24 Undergraduate Business Programs
- USNWR: Top 10 and Top 20 Full- and Part-Time public MBA programs, respectively
- PR: #39 Graduate Entrepreneur Programs
- PR: Top 50 Online MBA Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $12,737 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 52,407
- #undergrads: 35,405
- Student/ faculty ratio: 17 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
14. Pepperdine University
Malibu, California

Points: 60
Website
Pepperdine University (Pepperdine, est. 1937) is a private, nonprofit institution offering top-value bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
Graduate entrepreneurship program options include:
- Master of Arts in Social Entrepreneurship and Change (MA-SEC) – online-hybrid degree offered at two locations
- Master of Science in Entrepreneurship (MSEN)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with Entrepreneurship concentration – Full-Time or Part-Time tracks (other tracks may not have the concentration)
Entrepreneurship-related resources include:
- Graziado Business School
- Peate Institute for Entrepreneurship
- Business incubator
- New venture funding
- Yearly scholarships (full-tuition)
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #53 Undergraduate Business Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $35,020 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 8,824
- #undergrads: 3,583
- Student/ faculty ratio: 13 to 1
- Affiliation: Churches of Christ
- Religious affiliation: Various Christian
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
13. Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
University Park, Pennsylvania

Points: 60
Website
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus (Penn WC, est. 1998) is a public institution offering budget-friendly associates through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. WC is home to Penn State’s online programs and more.
Penn WC undergraduate students have several entrepreneurial degree options. Graduate entrepreneurial program options include:
- Grad certificate in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE)
- Master’s in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship (MCIE) – online
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with multiple tracks and 20 concentrations, including Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) – primarily online, with a 5-day residency
All entrepreneurship students, grad and undergrad, have access to various resources, initiatives, etc. For example, the Farrell Center for Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship offers industry partnerships, research initiatives, educational opportunities, events, networking and more.
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #24 Undergraduate Business Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $22,186 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students:
- #undergrads:
- Student/ faculty ratio:
- Has housing: No
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
12. University of Tampa
Tampa, Florida

Points: 60
Website
University of Tampa (UT, est. 1931) is a private, nonprofit institution offering economical bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
UT graduate students have these entrepreneurship program options:
- Master of Science in Entrepreneurship (MSE)
- Master of Business Entrepreneurship (MBA) with a concentration in Entrepreneurship
Students have access to the Lowth Entrepreneurship Center, which offers opportunities to build upon entrepreneurial skills through a variety of resources.
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #36 Undergraduate Entrepreneurial Schools
- USNWR: #157 Undergraduate Business Programs
- PR: #20 Graduate Entrepreneur Programs
- PR: #17 Undergraduate Entrepreneur Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $11,546 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 9,628
- #undergrads: 8,697
- Student/ faculty ratio: 17 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
11. Syracuse University
Syracuse, New York

Points: 62
Website
Syracuse University (SU, est. 1870) is a private, nonprofit institution offering high-value associates through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
Syracuse offers a major and minor in Entrepreneurship and Emerging Enterprises (EEE) at the bachelor’s level, with some dual-degree options. Graduate program options include:
- Master of Science in Entrepreneurship (MSE) – online; 30 credits; 15+ months; no GMAT; named “National Model Entrepreneurship Program” by the United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (USASBE)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Entrepreneurship – online; possible GMAT waiver based on work experience
Dual degree options include: MSE and MBA; MSE and MS Business Analytics; MSE and MS Professional Accounting.
Resources and competitions for entrepreneurship students include:
- Martin J. Whitman School of Management (AACSB International accredited)
- Falcone Center for Entrepreneurship
- Panasci Business Plan Competition, with seed funding
- Orange Tank Pitch Competition – an annual competition, Shark Tank–style
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #18 Undergraduate Entrepreneurial Schools
- USNWR: #53 Undergraduate Business Programs
- PR: #13 Graduate Entrepreneur Programs
- PR: #31 Undergraduate Entrepreneur Programs
Notable Syracuse alumni include:
- Joe Biden, current President of the United States and former US VP under the Obama administration
- Journalists/ Broadcasters:
- Megyn Kelly
- Ted Koppel
- Bob Costas
- Writers/ Novelists:
- Joyce Carol Oates
- Alice Sebold
- William Safire
- Artificial heart inventor: Dr. Robert Jarvik
- Fashion designer: Betsey Johnson
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $40,188 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 22,850
- #undergrads: 15,275
- Student/ faculty ratio: 15 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
10. Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Points: 65
Website
Carnegie Mellon University (CMU, est. 1900) is a private, nonprofit institution offering bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
Graduate entrepreneurial students have several program options, delivered by the Tepper School of Business and other academic divisions:
- Master of Science in Technology Ventures (MSTV) – covers entrepreneurship, intrapreneurship, innovation
- School of Music: Advanced Music Studies certificate program in Music Entrepreneurship (one year, with both undergrad and graduate versions of some courses)
- Tepper MBA (Master of Business Administration; Full-Time, Part-Time Online; Part-Time Flex) with an Entrepreneurship in Organizations track
The EO track has three options: High Growth Entrepreneurship; Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition; Biomedical Translational Research and Entrepreneurship.
A number of resources, centers, incubators, showcases, etc., are available to entrepreneurship students:
- Center for Technology Transfer and Enterprise Creation (CTTEC)
- Corporate Startup Lab
- Entrepreneurship through Acquisition
- Graduate Entrepreneurship Club
- Integrated Innovation Institute
- Leadership in Entrepreneurship Conference
- James R. Swartz Entrepreneurial Fellows
- LaunchCMU
- Makerspaces
- Mentorship and Funding
- Project Olympus Incubator Program
- Swartz Center for Entrepreneurship
- Swartz Center Entrepreneurs-in-Residence
- VentureBridge
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #23 Undergraduate Entrepreneurial Schools
- USNWR: #7 Undergraduate Business Programs
- INC: #14 MBA Entrepreneur Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $45,909 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 14,180
- #undergrads: 6,618
- Student/ faculty ratio: 5 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
9. University of Texas at Dallas
Richardson, Texas
Points: 65
Website
University of Texas at Dallas (UTD, est. 1961) is a public institution offering best-value bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. The low-cost entrepreneurship programs at UTD have earned a number of accolades for excellence and innovation:
- National Model Master’s Program (2014) – United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (USASBE)
- Award for Excellence in Entrepreneurial Teaching and Pedagogical Innovation (2014) – Global Consortium of Entrepreneurship Centers (GCEC)
UTD offers three relevant graduate program options:
- Graduate certificate in New Venture Entrepreneurship
- Master of Science in Innovation and Entrepreneurship (MSIE)
- Online Master of Business Administration (MBA) with multiple tracks (no specific Entrepreneurship concentration)
These programs are offered by the Naveen Jindal School of Management, which also has eight dual-degree Master of Science (MS) options for the MBA program. At the undergrad level, students can take the BSBA Innovation and Entrepreneurship degree.
Entrepreneurship students have access to a number of relevant resources, opportunities, events, etc.
- Startup Launch — academic credit for launching companies
- Funding for launch of scalable concepts – up to $25K
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #67 Undergraduate Business Programs
- PR: #10 Graduate Entrepreneur Programs
- PR: #18 Undergraduate Entrepreneur Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $13,874 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 29,543
- #undergrads: 20,996
- Student/ faculty ratio: 25 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
8. Northeastern University
Boston, Massachusetts

Points: 80
Website
Northeastern University (NU, est. 1898) is a private, nonprofit institution offering high-quality bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs.
Graduate entrepreneurship students have three program options, delivered by the D’Amore-McKim School of Business:
- Graduate Certificate in Technological Entrepreneurship
- Online Master of Science in Technological Entrepreneurship (MSTE)
- Online Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Innovation Entrepreneurship
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #20 Undergraduate Entrepreneurial Schools
- USNWR: #53 Undergraduate Business Programs
- PR: #11 Graduate Entrepreneur Programs
- PR: #8 Undergraduate Entrepreneur Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $25,085 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 22,207
- #undergrads: 14,202
- Student/ faculty ratio: 14 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education
7. University of Utah
Salt Lake City, Utah
Points: 80
Website
University of Utah (U of U, est. 1850) is a public institution offering cheap bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. Entrepreneurship students have two top-value program options, both delivered by the David Eccles School of Business:
- a 9-month Master of Business Creation (MBC)
- a Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Note: the AACSB-accredited MBA has four tracks (Full-Time, Professional, Online, Exec) and does not have its own Entrepreneurship concentration.
The university’s Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute, an interdisciplinary division of the Eccles School, “is a nationally ranked hub for student entrepreneurship.” It offers competitions, workshops, networking opportunities, startup support, and much more.
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #48 Business Schools
- USNWR: #12 Entrepreneurial Schools
- USNWR: #10 Undergraduate Entrepreneurial Schools
- USNWR: #44 Undergraduate Business Programs
- PR: #16 Graduate Entrepreneur Programs
- PR: #10 Undergraduate Entrepreneur Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $8,396 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 32,852
- #undergrads: 24,485
- Student/ faculty ratio: 17 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
6. University of Delaware
Newark, Delaware
Points: 81
Website
University of Delaware (UD, est. 1833) is a public institution offering high-quality associates through doctorate degrees.
Business and related educational programs are delivered by the Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics, including a Bachelor of Business Administration. Students can find entrepreneur resources at UD’s Center for Economic Education and Entrepreneurship (CEEE).
UD has several graduate entrepreneurial program options, including a 12-credit grad certificate (Entrepreneurship and Innovation) and four master’s degrees:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with two concentration choices: Entrepreneurial Studies; Entrepreneurship and Innovation
- Master of Arts in Economics and Entrepreneurship for Educators (MAEEE)
- Master of Science (MS) in Food Science with a concentration in Business, Entrepreneurship, and Leadership
- Master of Science (MS) in Animal Science with a concentration in Business, Entrepreneurship, and Leadership
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #97 Undergraduate Business Programs
- PR: #41 Undergraduate Entrepreneur Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $34,956 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 23,808
- #undergrads: 19,678
- Student/ faculty ratio: 15 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
5. University of Washington-Seattle
Seattle, Washington

Points: 85
Website
University of Washington-Seattle (UW, est. 1861) is a public institution offering affordable bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. It serves students on three campuses and online.
Entrepreneurship students have several options for programs, including grad certificates and master’s degrees, delivered by the Foster School of Business:
- Professional and Continuing Education certificate in Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership
- Graduate certificate in Entrepreneurship (Only open to currently enrolled, degree-seeking UW grad students)
- Master of Science in Entrepreneurship (MSE)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with multiple tracks: Full-Time, Evening, Exec, Hybrid Online, Global Exec. Note: only certain tracks can be paired with the grad certificate.
UW also offers degrees in entrepreneurship at the undergrad and PhD levels (PhD in Technology Entrepreneurship). Resources, centers, opportunities, etc., include:
- Arthur W. Buerk Center for Entrepreneurship
- Buerk Center business accelerator
- Startup venture competitions
- Networking opportunities
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #30 Undergraduate Entrepreneurial Schools
- USNWR: #19 Undergraduate Business Programs
- PR: #7 Graduate Entrepreneur Programs
- PR: #21 Undergraduate Entrepreneur Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $19,293 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 47,576
- #undergrads: 32,046
- Student/ faculty ratio: 20 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
4. University of Southern California
Los Angeles, California

Points: 90
Website
University of Southern California (USC, est. 1880) is a private, nonprofit institution offering top-value bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. Some of its alumni have gone on to found and/or develop successful startups such as Kinko’s, Salesforce, MySpace and Tinder.
Entrepreneurship students at USC have a choice of three masters-level degree programs, delivered by the Marshall School of Business:
- Master of Science in Entrepreneurship and Innovation (MSEI)
- Master of Science in Social Entrepreneurship (MSSE)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) multi tracks (FT, Exec, Prof PT, IBEAR, Online/ OMBA)
Amongst the resources available to students through the university’s Lloyd Greif Center for Entrepreneurial Studies are a number of venture competitions.
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #10 Undergraduate Entrepreneurial Schools
- USNWR: #12 Undergraduate Business Programs
- INC: #26 MBA Entrepreneur Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $47,107 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 48,321
- #undergrads: 20,351
- Student/ faculty ratio: 9 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
3. University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Points: 90
Website
University of Pennsylvania (UPenn, est. 1740) is a private, nonprofit institution offering high-quality associates through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. UPenn is one of the eight prestigious Ivy League colleges, and is home to the highly-regarded Wharton School of Business. It comes in third place in our ranking of the most entrepreneurial colleges.
Entrepreneurship students have a few options for programs, including two grad certificates and two master’s degree options:
- Certificate in Engineering Entrepreneurship (EENT)
- Certificate in Education Entrepreneurship and Innovation
- Master of Science in Education (MSEd) in Education Entrepreneurship
- Executive Master of Business Administration (MBA) for Entrepreneurship and Innovation
UPenn claims the milestone of the above-mentioned MSEd being the first masters of its kind in the world, and also offers it as a dual-degree option with their MBA. Wharton also offers a non-credit specialization program in Entrepreneurship (four weeks per course, 100% online) through the digital learning platform Coursera.org (paid subscription required after trial period).
Entrepreneurship students have a number of resources, centers, research opportunities, competitions, etc., available to them at UPenn:
- Entrepreneur-in-Residence Center
- Entrepreneurship and Startups – Venture Lab
- Entrepreneurship at Wharton San Francisco
- Mack Institute for Innovation Management
- Penn Wharton Entrepreneurship ecosystem
- Venture Initiation Program
- Wharton Business Plan Competition
- Wharton Small Business Development Center
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #1 Business Schools
- USNWR: #6 Entrepreneurial Schools
- USNWR: #5 Undergraduate Entrepreneurial Schools
- USNWR: #1 Undergraduate Business Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $40,182 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 26,675
- #undergrads: 11,872
- Student/ faculty ratio: 6 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
2. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Points: 95
Website
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (UMich, est. 1817) is a public institution offering high-quality bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. It earns second place in our ranking of the most entrepreneurial colleges in the United States.
Rackham Graduate School and Stephen M. Ross School of Business offer the following entrepreneurial graduate programs:
- Graduate Certificate in Innovation & Entrepreneurship (12 credits)
- Certificate in Arts Entrepreneurship and Leadership (12 credits)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with six tracks: Full-Time; Part-Time Evening; PT Weekend; PT Online; Executive; Global
Entrepreneurship programs start at the undergraduate level (Entrepreneurship Minor). Entrepreneurial students at any study level have access to multiple resources:
- Academic and professional support
- Entrepreneurial competitions
- Seminars on commercialization grants
- Startup grants
- Center for Entrepreneurship (College of Engineering)
- Center for Venture Capital and Private Equity Finance
- Entrepalooza
- Entrepreneur Club
- Samuel Zell and Robert H. Lurie Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies
- TechArb Student Venture Accelerator, which provides workspaces for student ventures
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #12 Business Schools
- USNWR: #7 Entrepreneurial Schools
- USNWR: #6 Undergraduate Entrepreneurial Schools
- USNWR: #3 Undergraduate Business Programs
- PR: #5 Graduate Entrepreneur Programs
- PR: #4 Undergraduate Entrepreneur Programs
- INC: #4 MBA Entrepreneur Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $24,218 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 48,090
- #undergrads: 31,266
- Student/ faculty ratio: 11 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
1. Drexel University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Points: 115
Website
Drexel University (Drexel, est. 1891) is a private, nonprofit institution offering exceptional bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. It wins first place in our ranking of the most entrepreneurial colleges in the USA.
Drexel claims the milestone of its Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship – part of the LeBow College of Business – being the country’s “first independent school of entrepreneurship to offer degrees.” The university has several entrepreneurial education options, including four graduate certificates and three master’s degrees.
The certificate options are:
- Corporate Entrepreneurship
- New Venture Creation
- Foundations of Entrepreneurship
- Social Entrepreneurship
Graduate entrepreneurship degree options include:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management;
- Master of Science in Entrepreneurship and Innovation (MSEI)
- Master of Science in Biomedicine and Entrepreneurship (MS-BMEN)
- Master of Legal Studies in Law and Entrepreneurship (MLS-LE)
Drexel also offers a Graduate Minor in Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
Business + Entrepreneur Program Rankings
- USNWR: #27 Undergraduate Entrepreneurial Schools
- USNWR: #97 Undergraduate Business Programs
- PR: #12 Undergraduate Entrepreneur Programs
Additional Information
- Avg cost: $36,021 (avg in-state grad tuition + fees)
- #students: 24,205
- #undergrads: 15,414
- Student/ faculty ratio: 11 to 1
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Frequently Asked Questions
What jobs are available with a business/entrepreneurial degree?
While entrepreneurship education programs are particularly suited to preparing aspiring entrepreneurs for launching their own businesses, the courses that such a program might typically offer helps build skills in several areas important to the success of any business, large or small. Such skills include communication, leadership, team-building, management, analysis, critical thinking and much more (see a longer list of skills useful to entpreneurs elsewhere below).
Graduates of a master’s in entrepreneurship degree have many possible careers paths that they can pursue, especially if they’re not yet ready to launch a business of their own. Here is list of potential careers:
- Accountant
- Advertising
- Budget Analyst
- Business Consultant
- Business Development
- Business Manager
- Business Professor
- Business Reporter
- Chief Executive Officer
- College lecturer (community college, undergrad programs)
- Construction Manager
- Consultant – general
- Corporate Recruiter
- Designer
- E-commerce
- Finance — private equity/ venture funds
- Financial Advisor
- Financial Analyst
- Financial Manager
- Freelancing and gig work
- General or Operations Manager
- Government administration
- Human Resources Manager
- Insurance
- International development
- Internet Consultant
- Management Analyst
- Marketing Manager
- Marketing Research Analyst
- Mid-Level Management
- Not-for-profit Fundraiser
- Nonprofit leadership
- Product Manager
- Public Relations
- Real Estate (various, including Agent, Appraiser, Mortgage Broker, Investor)
- Recruiter
- Research and Development
- Sales Manager/ Account Executive
- Social entrepreneurship
- Social Media Manager
- Software, Web, or Mobile App Developer
- Systems Analyst
- Teacher
How much can you earn with a business/ entrepreneurial degree?
Given the possible careers (listed above) for graduates of an entrepreneurship degree, it’s difficult to pinpoint exact earnings as the actual range is very wide. Especially when you consider that you could also launch a business startup of your own. That said, a 2013 study (American Express OPEN) indicates that the average income of American entrepreneurs was around $64K. More recently, Payscale is currently reporting that the average small business owner’s salary is just over $69.3K. Of course, there can be other benefits of running your business, including being your own boss, and having access to assets that your business owns directly.
While there’s the above reality of average entrepreneurial income, if you’re the successful founder/ co-founder of a startup that grows into a large company, you may be earning much more than average. This is especially true when stock options, bonuses and other benefits are factored in. If your startup later goes public or gets acquired, you might benefit in the millions, maybe even billions, like some recent tech entrepreneurs have. It’s not as common but it does happen, especially in certain niches such as tech, medicine, etc.
What do most entrepreneurs major in?
Given the number of American colleges that offer Entrepreneurship-specific programs compared to how many offer Business Administration programs, it’s statistically likely that most aspiring entrepreneurs major in the latter. However, some colleges do offer Entrepreneurship programs around one or more of medicine, art, music, science, sports, etc. A marketing major might also lead to entrepreneurial endeavors. What you decide to major in could be influenced by the type of entrepreneur you are or will be: buyer; hustler; imitator; innovator; researcher; etc.
How do I find the best entrepreneurial school for me?
While we present our list of the 50 most entrepreneurial colleges in this article, there are also hundreds of MBA programs that cover elements of entrepreneurship. How do you choose the right one for you?
Obviously, only you know what’s important to you in a master’s degree, what you want to learn, about business, entrepreneurship and related topics. However, there are a few questions you could explore answering about each entrepreneurial college that you are considering applying to, listed in the five subsections below. Devise a point system for each factor, and apply it consistently for each college that you’re researching.
What entrepreneurial clubs, events, etc. are available?
Many business colleges will likely have one or more clubs of interest to entrepreneurial students, as well as workshops, non-credit seminars, guest lecturers, etc. Review each college’s club and event offerings and award a consistent point system, to help you build a personal ranking.
Do they have entrepreneurship competitions?
Available competitions might be monthly, quarterly, yearly or even one-offs. Research the type of competitions available at each college in which you’re interested. Again, apply a consistent point system to help you reach a shortlist of entrepreneurial colleges.
Are faculty members entrepreneurs?
If you do not find this information on a college’s website, call admissions or the appropriate department. Let them know you’re researching the college, and ask them how many faculty members in your intended degree program are entrepreneurs. Once again, use a point system to rank each college in this category.
Is there an entrepreneurial alumni network?
While this sort of info is often found on a college’s website, you can always call and ask if you don’t find it. Again, determine a way to consistently assign points, to help in your personal ranking.
Do they offer entrepreneurship internships and projects?
This sort of information is usually listed either in a degree overview section and/or the curriculum breakdown. As above, check each college’s website or call for info, then apply your point system. If you have any other factors that are important to you, add them, assign points, etc. Now tally up the total points to produce your personal ranking of each entrepreneurial college to which you’re interested in applying.
Who are some of the most successful entrepreneurs?
Across history, there have been many successful entrepreneurs — far too many to list here. In older generations of entrepreneurs, many were self-made millionaires and didn’t necessarily study for it. In fact, more than a few famous billionaires are either college dropouts or never attended. The following list mentions some famous entrepreneurs, a few of them multi-millionaires or billionaires.
- Elon Musk (PayPal, Tesla, Boring Co.)
- Mark Zuckerberg (Facebook)
- Bill Gates (Microsoft)
- Steve Jobs (Apple, NeXT, Pixar)
- Steve Wozniak (Apple)
- Evan Spiegel (Snapchat)
- Andrew Carnegie (Carnegie Steel Company)
- Henry Ford (Ford Motor Cars)
- Thomas Edison (Edison Electric Company)
What kinds of entrepreneurship or related degrees are there?
Collectively, American colleges offer entrepreneur-specific programs across all study levels: Associates; Bachelor’s; Master’s; Doctorate. There are also certificate programs at undergraduate and graduate levels. These programs are often a special focus (track, emphasis, specialization, concentration) for a business degree, but might also be offered in tandem with other subjects. Some of these non-business topics include:
- Communications
- Computer science
- Economics
- Engineering
- Environmental science
- Finance
- Marketing
- Psychology
- Supply chain management
What concentrations are available in an entrepreneurship degree?
With many of the entrepreneurship education programs referenced in this article, Entrepreneurship itself is the concentration. However, social entrepreneurship is a growing area of interest that is sometimes offered as a concentration as part of either an MBA or other master’s degree. Medicine, art, engineering, computer science, environmental science are some of the other possible entrepreneurship concentrations or minors, although there may be others offered as part of an MBA or related degree program.
What courses help entrepreneurs gain important skills?
To be successful, an entrepreneur needs to develop multiple skills and take on many roles. To that end, entrepreneurship students should consider taking courses that include (but are not limited to) management, time management, project management, communication, leadership, marketing, philosphical logic, etc. If you’re going to manage people in your overall role as an entrepreneur, basic courses in psychology and philosphical logic may also be beneficial.
Are there professional organizations for entrepreneur students?
There are multiple professional organizations which may be of interest to entrepreneurship students and graduates — some of which are specifically entrepreneur-oriented, and the rest broader in scope, being business-oriented. The following is a partial list. Please note that some organizations may require membership fees and/or other expenses, and may have particular membership requirements. Some may not be open to students until after graduation, or may have certain experience requirements.
- ASHOKA
- Association for Enterprise Opportunity
- Association of Private Enterprise Education (APEE)
- Chamber of Commerce
- CoFoundersLab
- Collegiate Entrepreneurs’ Organization
- Dell Women’s Entrepreneur Network (DWEN)
- Dynamite Circle
- Edward Lowe Foundation
- Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO)
- Entrepreneurship.org
- Forum for Women Entrepreneurs (FWE)
- FoundersCard
- NFIB (The National Federation of Independent Business)
- National Association for the Self Employed (NASE)
- National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO)
- National Federation of Independent Business
- SCORE
- Social Enterprise Alliance
- Startup Grind
- StartupNation
- The Association of Private Enterprise Education (APEE)
- The Entrepreneur’s Club
- The Indus Entrepreneurs (TIE)
- The International Council for Small Business (ICSB)
- United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (USASBE)
- Vistage
- Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC)
- Young Presidents Organization (YPO)
What skills do entrepreneurs need to maximize success?
To be a successful entrepreneur takes both action and follow-through, not to mention a whole host of skills and behaviors. The good news is that you can learn many of them on the go. The list below includes many of the skills and behaviors that successful entrepreneurs collectively hold.
- Ability to understand root problems
- Adaptability
- Analytical
- Brainstorming
- Break-even analysis
- Business plan building
- Business storytelling
- Collaboration
- Communication
- Competitiveness
- Computer skills
- Confidence
- Consistency
- Creative thinking
- Critical thinking
- Decision making
- Drive
- Emotional intelligence
- Experimentation
- Financial projections
- Flexibility
- Focus
- General business skills
- General management
- Goal-oriented
- Growth mindset
- Identify causes
- Initiative
- Innovation
- Interpersonal communication
- Leadership
- Logical thinking
- Motivation
- Negotiation
- Networking
- Nonverbal communication
- Ongoing improvement
- Optimism
- Organization
- Passion
- Perseverance
- Persuasion
- Planning
- Positivity
- Prioritization
- Problem solving
- Project management
- Relationship building
- Results-oriented
- Risk management
- Risk-taking
- Sales
- Sales forecasting
- Self-efficacy
- Self-motivated
- Self-starting
- Social media
- Stamina
- Strategic planning
- Stress tolerant
- Strong work ethic
- Success compulsion
- Success-driven
- Team building
- Technology
- Tenacity
- Thinking outside the box
- Time management
- Transformation
- Trendsetting
- Working independently
- Work-life balance
Other Articles of Interest
- 15 Best Affordable Entrepreneurship Degree Programs (Bachelor’s)
- What is the Difference Between Business and Entrepreneurial Degree?
- What is the Best Degree to Become an Entrepreneur?
- What Can I Do With An Entrepreneurial Degree?
- 25 Most Affordable Marketing Degree Programs (Master’s)
- 25 Best Affordable Online Business Administration Degree Programs (Master’s)
- 25 Best Affordable Online Marketing Degree Programs (Master’s)
- 35 Best Affordable Online Business Administration Degree Programs (Bachelor’s)
- 35 Best Affordable Online Marketing Degree Programs (Bachelor’s)