Small businesses and start-up organizations present unique challenges for management as they strive to achieve organizational goals. Knowing and executing small business management and entrepreneurial concepts increases the likelihood of organizational growth and longevity. Small business career opportunities are varied and include general management, entrepreneurship, operations management and specialties within these fields. The small business and entrepreneurship major within the B.S. in Business Administration prepares students for careers in or advancement within the small business management and related professions.
Curriculum in the Business Administration Degree Program
The curriculum requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Concentration in Small Business and Entrepreneurship include:
- Business Core Curriculum - 39 credits
- Ellis University Bachelor Curriculum Core - 42 credits
- Concentration Courses - 18 credits
- Elective Courses - 22 credits
You can choose elective courses to pursue specific interests that
complement other courses in your degree program. Please consult with
your advisor to select the most appropriate elective courses in your
business administration degree to achieve your career goals.
Total: 121 credits
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Concentration in Small Business and Entrepreneurship - Program Outline
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| CSS 101 |
College Success Seminar |
3 |
-
- The cornerstone of the general education program is a three-credit course designed to provide students with the tools necessary for collegiate success. This course provides support to new students as they develop confidence in their academic and social endeavors.
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| WRT 101 |
College Composition I |
3 |
-
- Instruction in the application of the principles and skills involved in effective expository writing, with most readings from nonfiction prose. Introduces students to the writing process with special attention to constructing arguments, working with sources, and crafting effective sentences and paragraphs.
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| WRT 151 |
College Composition II |
3 |
-
- Further development of the expository and writing and reading skills taught in English. An introduction to literature and the development of library skills leading to a documented research paper. Prerequisite: WRT 101.
-
| COM 240 |
Writing for the Mass Media |
3 |
-
- This practical introductory course exposes students to the basics of effective writing and the variety of writing challenges posed by the mass media. Simple forms of writing for various media are explored as are elements of good writing such as internal conflict, word economy, objectivity, subjectivity, and the use of nonverbal messages. Prerequisites: WRT 101 and WRT 151.
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| LIT 220 |
The Art of Drama |
3 |
-
- An intermediate-level course in which the student explores dramatic literature in an effort to discover its ritual origins, historical role and current significance. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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| LIT 210 |
The Art of Poetry |
3 |
-
- An intermediate-level course in which the student learns the technique of reading, interpreting, and evaluating poetry of increasing difficulty and brilliance. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
-
| LIT 230 |
The Art of Fiction |
3 |
-
- An intermediate-level course in which selected works of fiction are examined in an effort to understand the approaches, strategies and techniques of artists in this compelling medium. Students will also produce an original, creative piece. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
-
| LIT 240 |
The Art of Prose: Scientific and Technical Literature |
3 |
-
- An intermediate-level course in which the art of prose writing is explored in depth. This course focuses on stylistics and rhetoric and covers the development of scientific and technical literature. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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-
- This course is more an in depth study than an introduction to representative British and American poets of the 20th century. Emphasis is placed on the manner in which modern poetry derives from traditional patterns yet manages to create new forms and messages for our time.
Prerequisite: WRT 151.
-
| LIT 330 |
Survey of World Literature |
3 |
-
- Study of outstanding writers from all over the world except England and America, from ancient times to the 20th century. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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| LIT 331 |
Art of the Novel |
3 |
-
- An advanced study of selected masterpieces in the novel form.
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| LIT 340 |
The African-American Writer in American Literature |
3 |
-
- Reading and discussion of representative works of African-American writers. Historical and social backgrounds are explored to interpret African-American literature as meaningful as part of the American literary tradition. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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| LIT 341 |
Twentieth-Century American Literature |
3 |
-
- An advanced study of major American literature of the 20th century. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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| WRT 310 |
Business Writing |
3 |
-
- An intermediate-level writing course for students in business. Instruction and practice in all phases of business communications. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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| WRT 316 |
Writing for the Technical Professions |
3 |
-
- An intermediate-level writing course for students of the physical and life sciences and technology. Emphasis on style in technical writing, modes of technical discourse (definition, description, analysis, interpretation) and strategies for effective business communication, including resume writing, technical reports and oral presentations. Methods and procedures of research are explored in depth. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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| WRT 330 |
Writing for Communication Arts |
3 |
-
- An intermediate-level writing course for students in the communication field with emphasis on developing writing fluency. Focus on expository, persuasive writing; in-depth study of research methods; and strategies for effective business communication, including resume writing and oral presentations. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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| WRT 335 |
Writing for Publication |
3 |
-
- An advanced writing course with special emphasis on published work. Students interested in writing and those seriously committed to their own writing improvement and to the writing of prose articles, fiction or poetry are especially encouraged to take this course. Prerequisite: WRT 151.
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| SPH 105 |
Basic Speech Communication |
3 |
-
- Study of the fundamentals of verbal communication including public speaking, interpersonal communication and small group interaction. Training in methods of obtaining and organizing materials and ideas for effective verbal communication.
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| COM 101 |
Communication: Principles and Process |
3 |
-
- This survey course introduces the nature, principles, elements and mechanism of the communication process. How, why, in what forms, and through what stages communication occurs is explored along with the nature of human perception and the role of verbal and nonverbal language in conveying meaning. Emphasis is placed on providing a working knowledge of the fundamental principles of communication as they apply to the design and delivery of the message via such media as print, radio, television, film and the Internet.
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| HIS 110 |
American History I |
3 |
-
- This is a survey course of American history from the colonial period, the Revolution to the establishment of the Republic, the first half of the nineteenth century, up through the period of the Civil War, ending in 1865. The impact of geography on the growth of the Republic is considered. The political, economic and cultural evolution of the American people is examined, providing the student with historical foundations for an informed political awareness of present-day issues.
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| HIS 150 |
American History II |
3 |
-
- This is a survey course of American history from the end of the Civil War to the present: the period of the Reconstruction, the industrialization of the United States, the emergence of the country as a great power, U.S. role in the 20th century are considered. The political, economic and cultural evolution of the American people is examined, providing the student with historical foundations for an informed political awareness of present-day issues.
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| HIS 210 |
The Contemporary World |
3 |
-
- This is a survey course of 20th century global history: it covers the period of imperialism leading to World War I, the emergence of the USSR as a major power, the transformation of Europe as a result of World War II, the period of the Cold War, the role of the USA in the post-cold war world. Special emphasis is placed on the impact of geography, science and technology on political, economic and cultural development of the world.
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| PHI 110 |
Problems of Philosophy |
3 |
-
- An introduction to philosophy by way of selected problems from various areas of philosophy. Topics include: the nature of a priori knowledge and of scientific explanation, the existence of God, whether or not there can be moral knowledge, and the problem of free will. The course objective is to acquaint students with these philosophical issues, and through detailed discussion, to teach them how to analyze ideas critically.
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| PHI 220 |
Ethics and Social Philosophy |
3 |
-
- An examination of some of the most critical issues of moral and social philosophy. These include subjects such as the linguistic analysis of terms such as “good,” “evil,” “duty,” “right” and others. The basis of different moral systems will be studied and the selections from ethical and social philosophers will be read.
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| PHI 230 |
Technology, Society, and Values |
3 |
-
- An examination of models and case studies concerned with the impact of machines on man, of technological systems on social structure, and modes of production on value systems. Special attention is paid to the ethical problems connected with newly emerging technologies.
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| PLS 110 |
American Government and Politics |
3 |
-
- This course is an introduction to the processes of the American form of democratic government, the nature and structure of US government, its chief characteristics and functions. Special attention is paid to the intimate relation and mutual impact of government and the people on each other, expanding the students’ awareness of the effects of governmental decision on the American People.
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| CRJ 110 |
Introduction to Criminal Justice |
3 |
-
- An introduction to the contemporary American criminal justice system. Discussion of the role of police, courts and prisons. Also examined is the juvenile justice system. General issues considered include: police discretion, due process, and change as an integral element of the
American criminal justice system.
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| CRJ 386 |
Police Psychology |
3 |
-
- The focus of the course will be on the personality, character, behavioral changes and social isolation that result from the inherent high levels of stress and trauma associated with police work (from entry level to retirement). Factors such as managerial planning, supervision, specialized assignments, high hazard work, tour changes, work environments, alcoholism, substance abuse, other addictive behavior patterns, suicide, and codependent family issues will be identified and addressed.
Prerequisites: CRJ 110, PSY 110
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| PSY 110 |
Introduction to Psychology |
3 |
-
- An introduction to selected concepts, methods, and vocabulary of psychology. Focus of study will be on the individual and the conditions that influence behavior. Topics that will be covered include: growth and development, learning and thinking, emotions and motivations, personality and assessment, maladjustment and mental health, groups and social interaction, and social influence and society.
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| SOC 110 |
Introduction to Sociology |
3 |
-
- An analysis of the social and cultural forces that govern human behavior. The principal topics include: social interaction and organization, socialization processes, primary groups and the family (associations, bureaucracy and other social institutions), collective behavior, population and ecology.
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| ECO 105 |
Principles of Economics I |
3 |
-
- A study of basic economic concepts emphasizing analysis of the aggregate economy. The fundamental concepts of national income and its determination, economic fluctuations, monetary and fiscal policies, and economic growth are covered.
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| ECO 110 |
Principles of Economics II |
3 |
-
- An examination of processes of price determination, output, and resource allocation in perfect and in imperfect competition. Also covers labor economics, international trade and finance, and alternative economic systems. Prerequisite: ECO 105.
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| BIO 101 |
Humanity and the Biological Universe |
3 |
-
- This course acquaints students with basic biological, health and environmental issues of the modern world. To achieve intended awareness, students will study basic anatomy, physiology, genetics and microbiology. Special attention will be given to contemporary problems such as AIDS, genetic engineering, cancer, heart disease, and pollution. The student will use basic mathematical, computer and quantitative reasoning skills to present cohesive written summations of learning.
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- An introduction to the principles of nutrition in food management. Includes food customs, patterns and habits, nutrients in foods, applied nutrition, and world nutrition problems and programs.
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| BIO 105 |
Food Microbiology |
3 |
-
- A course in basic food microbiology outlining important micro-organisms, food preservation and spoilage, food contamination, enzymes produced by micro-organisms, foods in relation to disease, food sanitation, control and inspection, and microbiological laboratory methods.
-
| PHY 115 |
Humanity and the Physical Universe |
3 |
-
- A survey course utilizing inquiry-based strategies in the physical sciences for non-science students. This course examines a broad range of topics including: Newtonian mechanics, electricity, magnetism, sound, optics, heat, energy and power, earth science including weather and climate, modern physics and the solar system. The interactions between physical science and technology and their impact on society and the quality of life will be considered.
-
| PHY 120 |
Journey Through the Universe |
3 |
-
- Introductory and descriptive course in astronomy. Topics include: study of the universe, planetary motion, the solar system; stars and galaxies; quasars, pulsars, and black holes; possibility of extra-terrestrial life.
-
| PHY 170 |
General Physics I |
3 |
-
- General Physics I is the study of the relationships between matter and energy in the world. In this course, students will examine Newton's laws of motion, particle kinematics and dynamics, vectors, work, energy, and momentum. Students will also conduct experiments in lab assignments to experience the science in action. Prerequisite: MAT 170.
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| MAT 115 |
Introductory Concepts of Mathematics |
3 |
-
- This course focuses on selected topics in mathematics for students of the humanities (not students pursuing math-related degrees). Students will engage in problem-solving techniques, including inductive and deductive reasoning, along with estimation to determine reasonableness of answers. Topics include: the history of numeration systems and calculating devices; logic and set theory including statements, truth tables, Venn diagrams and set operations; real number system; geometry dealing with polygons, angles, area, volume and capacity; calculating simple and compound interest, including continuous compounding. Applications to real-life situations are emphasized. Calculators and computers are used whenever they add to the understanding of the concepts. Prerequisite: satisfactory placement exam score or “C” or better in MAT 096 and MAT 100.
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| MAT 125 |
Finite Mathematics |
3 |
-
- Review of elementary algebra and selected topics in statistics and probability. Sets, real numbers, graphing, linear and quadratic equations and inequalities, relations and functions, solving systems of linear equations, descriptive statistics, frequency distributions, graphical displays of data, measures of central tendency and dispersion, introduction to probability. Prerequisite: satisfactory placement exam score, MAT 100 or equivalent.
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-
- College algebra and trigonometry gives students a strong preparation for taking calculus. Topics include functions, their graphs, domain, range, inverse functions, standard algebraic transformations of functions and their corresponding geometric transformations of their graphs, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometric functions and their applications, addition formulas and double angle formulas. Prerequisite: satisfactory placement exam score.
-
| MAT 161 |
Basic Applied Calculus |
3 |
-
- An introduction to calculus and its applications. Topics covered in this course include functions, limits, derivatives, tangent lines, the chain rule, maxima and minima, curve sketching, applications, anti-derivatives, fundamental theorem of calculus, integration by simple substitution and finding areas.
-
-
- A study of accounting fundamentals. Topics include the accounting cycle, statement preparation systems, asset valuations, accounting concepts, and principles for sole proprietorship.
-
| ACC 110 |
Managerial Accounting |
3 |
-
- Special emphasis is placed on the collection and interpretation of data for managerial decision making purposes. A study is made of cost concepts used in planning and control, cost-profit-volume analysis, and budgeting. Prerequisite: ACC 101.
-
| ECO 110 |
Principles of Economics II |
3 |
-
- An examination of processes of price determination, output, and resource allocation in perfect and in imperfect competition. Also covers labor economics, international trade and finance, and alternative economic systems. Prerequisite: ECO 105.
-
| ECO 201 |
Money and Banking |
3 |
-
- This course covers the structure and function of the banking system and financial markets in the United States; the use of monetary policy in the regulation of the national economy; and the role of the Federal Reserve System. Prerequisite: ECO 110.
-
| FIN 201 |
Corporate Finance |
3 |
-
- An overview of the financial management function in modern business, emphasizing the time value of money and financial analysis. The financial and economic environment and capital markets and securities are covered. Prerequisites: ACC 101, ECO 201, MAT 125.
-
| MAT 125 |
Finite Mathematics |
3 |
-
- Review of elementary algebra and selected topics in statistics and probability. Sets, real numbers, graphing, linear and quadratic equations and inequalities, relations and functions, solving systems of linear equations, descriptive statistics, frequency distributions, graphical displays of data, measures of central tendency and dispersion, introduction to probability. Prerequisite: satisfactory placement exam score, MAT 100 or equivalent.
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| MGT 201 |
Business Organization and Administration |
3 |
-
- A study of organizations and of the activities of the manager in an organization. The course follows a functional approach, analyzing such management concepts as organizing decentralization, use of staff, human relations, conflict, decision making, planning, supervision, communication, and financial and production control systems such as budgeting and PERT.
-
-
- An introductory course with emphasis on the law of contracts and agency. Designed to give a basic understanding of the legal aspects of contractual obligations and agency relationships.
-
| MGT 302 |
Statistical Sampling Theory |
3 |
-
- Introduces the use of statistics in business. Topics covered include descriptive statistics, probability theory, discrete probability distributions, continuous probability distributions, statistical sampling and regression analysis. Prerequisites: MIS 101 and MAT 125.
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| MGT 405 |
Business Policy Seminar |
3 |
-
- This is a capstone business core course in which the disciplines of business and economics will be focused on the solution of specific business problems. Prerequisite: completion of all other business core courses.
-
| MIS 101 |
Introduction to Computer Applications |
3 |
-
- This course provides an introduction to computers and management information systems. Topics include operating systems, networks and the Internet, productivity tools used in business including word processing, spreadsheet, database, presentation programs, management information systems and office automation.
-
| MIS 105 |
Introduction to Information Technology |
3 |
-
- The concept of information technology is introduced and examined. Topics include computer hardware and software, networks and the Internet, programming languages, data communication, management information systems and office automation.
-
| MKT 101 |
Introduction to Marketing |
3 |
-
- Study of the process by which consumers’ needs and wants are analyzed and satisfied within the context of a modern marketing system. Investigation of current developments in the external environment affecting the marketing process. The role of marketing institutions in facilitating the flow of goods and services from producers to consumers is analyzed.
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| MKT 305 |
New Product Management |
3 |
-
- Techniques and practices applied to conceiving, developing, launching, and managing new products. An in-depth evaluation of the life cycle concept will analyze various stages and how careful planning and managing can extend it. The product management concept and its effectiveness as a management tool will also be studied. Prerequisite: MKT 101.
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| MGT 310 |
Small Business Management |
3 |
-
- An examination of required skills, resources and techniques that transform an idea into a viable business. Entrepreneurial decision making will be stressed and the role it plays in idea generation, conception, opportunity analysis, marshalling of resources, implementation of plans, management of ongoing operations and providing for growth will be stressed. Prerequisites: MGT 201, MKT 101, ACC 101.
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| MGT 315 |
Human Resources Management |
3 |
-
- An introduction to the management of human resources for the effective support and achievement of an organization’s strategies and goals. The major functions of planning and staffing, employee development and involvement, compensation and reward and employee relations are examined. Decision-making skills in these areas are developed through class assignments. Prerequisite: MGT 201.
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| MGT 411 |
Business and Ethics |
3 |
-
- This course is designed to provide new entrepreneurs and business leaders with a solid background of ethical behavior as it relates to the issues they will face in many aspects of their professional and personal lives. Building on the fundamentals of ethics as evolved from great thinkers who explored issues of evil, duty and right from a moralistic viewpoint, this course will bring those eternal questions to current topics in business through debate and analysis.
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| MGT 420 |
Business Practicum |
3 |
-
- This course is designed as a capstone course to the Small Business and Entrepreneurship concentration. Specific cases in finance, management, marketing and leadership will be explored as an integral part of the course through hands on approach to problem solving. Additional related business cases will also be explored in class. Prerequisites: FIN 201, MGT 310, MKT 101, ACC 101, ACC 110.
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| MKT 201 |
Sales Management |
3 |
-
- Planning, supervising and evaluating the sales force efforts within the guidelines set by strategic marketing planning are the principal responsibilities of sales managers. This course examines both the theory and practices that are encompassed within the role of sales manager. Prerequisite: MKT 101.
