Master’s Degree in Entrepreneurship Overview

Professionals with an entrepreneurship master’s degree can launch new ventures and become business owners. Nearly 34.8 million small businesses operate across the country, according to 2024 data from the U.S. Small Business Administration.

However, studying entrepreneurship doesn’t limit your options to launching a small business. You can also apply your strategic planning and analytical skills to manage the launch of a corporation’s new product or service, evaluate startups to recommend venture capital investments, or consult on innovative approaches to business.

Learn more about how a master’s in entrepreneurship degree can take your career to the next level.

An entrepreneurship degree builds the knowledge and skills to become a business owner. In addition to launching a new business, a master’s in entrepreneurship can also lead to in-demand careers. For example, an entrepreneurship degree can prepare graduates for roles such as management consultant or financial manager.

The strategic, marketing, and finance coursework in a graduate-level entrepreneurship program builds in-demand skills. Organizations may bring in consultants with entrepreneurship experience to evaluate operations or make financial decisions.

Graduates of master’s in entrepreneurship programs can pursue various leadership careers in the business sector, with median annual salaries ranging from $100,000 to $200,000. Note that many executive-level careers require significant relevant experience in addition to a degree.

Entrepreneurs can start their own businesses and hold titles such as CEO, executive director, or president. These top executives shape long-term goals, oversee company operations, and manage employees. Other chief executive titles that a master’s in entrepreneurship can lead to include chief operating officer and chief financial officer.

Source: BLS

Management consultants or analysts evaluate an organization’s operations to recommend improvements. They analyze data and conduct interviews to identify problems and recommend solutions. Their recommendations may include new procedures, organizational changes, or updated systems. A master’s in entrepreneurship can build the strategic and management skills for these roles.

Source: BLS

Financial managers monitor an organization’s financial positions. They oversee investments, create reports, assess economic forecasts, and evaluate market trends to recommend strategies. A master’s in entrepreneurship builds the entrepreneurial finance and venture capital skills for a career as a financial manager.

Source: BLS

Graduate tuition and fees cost an average of around $20,500 per year, according to 2021-22 data from the National Center for Education Statistics. Costs vary widely, with private tuition averaging more than double public tuition.

Several factors affect price, including delivery format, enrollment status, and financial aid. By choosing an accredited institution, you’ll qualify for more forms of scholarships, grants, fellowships, and loans.

An entrepreneurship master’s degree can increase your employment opportunities. However, for that investment to pay off, prospective grad students must consider their earning potential and the cost of the program.

Entrepreneurship master’s programs look for applicants with the academic and professional skills to succeed in a graduate business program. Building a strong application package can increase your chances of getting into a top program.

Before starting your applications, make sure to review the admission requirements, which vary by program. Common requirements include:

Most universities request official transcripts, a resume, 1-3 letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose with your application. Request recommendation letters from professors and supervisors who can speak to your strengths.

Earning a master’s in entrepreneurship typically takes around two years for full-time students. Some programs offer an accelerated one-year track, while enrolling part time may mean spending 2-3 years in graduate school.

Grad students complete a minimum of 30 credits as part of their master’s in entrepreneurship degree. Degree-seekers who plan to work while in graduate school may benefit from the flexibility of an online format.

Researching and choosing the best master’s program for you will shape your grad school experience and career trajectory. So, how can you choose the right program?

Consider factors such as a program’s cost, focus, internship opportunities, and career services. The right program will fit your budget and your professional interests. You can also research delivery formats and enrollment options if you need a flexible program.

When looking forward to your career search, look for a program with strong career services support and a track record for graduate outcomes. Reputable programs will provide information on recent graduate placement records.

You’ll also want to look for programs that match your academic record and competitiveness. Research acceptance rates and the class profile for admitted students to find a good fit.

Business graduate students should choose an accredited institution and program for their degree. Accredited universities meet high standards for academic quality, graduation requirements, and faculty qualifications. And accredited business schools follow the best practices for preparing business professionals.

In addition to recognizing academic quality, accreditation also impacts financial aid and job opportunities. Learners attending accredited schools qualify for federal student aid programs. Many professional licenses and certifications require an accredited degree, and employers may not hire those with an unaccredited degree.

Entrepreneurship programs may also hold accreditation from a business accrediting agency such as the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

Prospective students have options when it comes to earning an entrepreneurship degree. Many business schools offer a master of science in entrepreneurship that focuses on entrepreneurial marketing, finance, and strategy.

Students can also consider an MBA in entrepreneurship. An MBA blends core business classes with specialized entrepreneurship courses. This broader foundation in management can lead to more career paths after graduation. However, MBA programs may require additional time and come with a higher tuition rate.

Review the program admission requirements, graduation requirements, and courses to decide which type of degree is a better fit for you.

Entrepreneurship programs offer a variety of courses, and the curriculum varies depending on the program. You’ll take core courses, and some programs offer electives to customize your course of study. You may also complete a project or capstone. Here are some of the courses you’ll see in entrepreneurship master’s programs.

The program’s delivery format will shape your student experience. Entrepreneurship programs offer in-person, online, and hybrid formats. With an in-person program, you’ll complete courses on campus at set times. Online programs offer more flexibility for students and delivery coursework two ways:

In addition to fully online programs, some business schools offer hybrid programs. These blend online and on-campus classes. Consider your schedule, learning style, and personal preference when deciding which format works best for you.