Entrepreneurial Studies

(Interdepartmental Undergraduate Minor)
Supervisory Committee: Kay Palan (Business), Chair; D. Draper (Vet Med); Eric O. Hoiberg (Ag); Pat Patterson (Engineering); Linda Niehm (Family & Cons. Science); Kate Schwensen (Design); Peter Orazem (LAS); Roger A. Smith (Education).

Entrepreneurial Studies is an interdisciplinary program that provides opportunities to students to learn about entrepreneurship-the starting of new business ventures. It serves to complement the student's major area of study, whether it be electrical engineering, horticulture, textiles and clothing, or veterinary medicine, by offering a means of putting theory and science into practice. The goal of the Entrepreneurial Studies program is to provide the knowledge and skills needed to start and manage new ventures. In addition to feasibility analysis and business planning, the program deals with the topics of innovation, technology transfer, industry analysis, and competitive strategy. Although the program introduces some fundamental concepts from accounting, finance, marketing, and management, it does not attempt to substitute for any business courses in these areas.

A minor in entrepreneurial studies is available to all undergraduate students at ISU. Students must follow college specific rules in selecting courses and must consult with the representative of that college to the Entrepreneurial Studies Supervisory Committee. The college representatives to the supervisory committee will be responsible for advising students in their college, and will inform students about the details of the college rules.

Minor

A student seeking a minor in entrepreneurial studies must successfully complete a minimum of 15 credits in courses approved for use in the entrepreneurial studies program, including the two required courses, Management 310 and 313. Management 310, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, is the introductory course and provides an overview of the entire field. Management 313, Feasibility Analysis and Business Planning, emphasises developing an idea for a new venture, conducting a feasibility study, researching the potential market, analyzing the competition, and preparing a formal business plan. Up to six of the 15 credits required for the minor may also be used in the student's required program of study. Interested students should see a representative of the Entrepreneurial Studies Supervisory Committee in the college of their primary major for the list of approved courses.