Business Development Certificate

Fall 2025 Schedule

August 19: 45 minute online orientation, 6 PM

August 21 - November 6: Weekly online class on Thursdays from 6 PM to 9 PM

November 13: On campus Pitch Day and Networking Event, in the evening 

This program is offered at no-cost to participants.

Course Schedule

• Weeks 1-3: Business Plan Fundamentals

  Learn the basics of creating a plan to launch and run your business. Understanding the core functions of your business, your customers, logistics, and finances is imperative for your success as an entrepreneur. This module is designed to ask you the questions you need to answer to understand, start, and run your business.

• Weeks 4-6: Developing Your Brand and Marketing Plan

  Develop your brand's look and voice. In this module, you will learn to tell your story while utilizing cutting-edge tools derived from Design Thinking methodologies to reach your desired audiences. 

• Weeks 7-9: Legal Pathways for Business Development

  This module will give you an overview of legal issues that many start-up and small businesses must address. You'll learn about the formation of a business entity, regulatory requirements, contract formation, employment issues, tax issues, dispute resolution, intellectual property and privacy issues.

• Weeks 10-12: Financial Planning for Business

  This module will teach you how to build a viable financial model to more effectively earn money. Starting with funding, valuation, planning, and tracking, this module will guide you through using Excel, applying the three financial statements, accurately tracking your revenue, and more! 

Certificate Requirements

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  Attend and participate in at least 75% of classes

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  Create a business plan

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  Attend and present your business plan at the on-campus Pitch Day and Networking Event

Instructors