This accelerated certificate is composed of 3 courses. Applied Business Foundations provides an overview of the three functions of business (operations, marketing, and finance). Applied Marketing Foundations teaches the principles of satisfying customer wants and needs by capturing, communicating, and creating value for customers. Small Business Planning lays the groundwork and business plan for a new business. It prepares students to engage today’s dynamic and rapidly changing market spaces. Students will engage in several experiential learning activities to apply key principles for entrepreneurial success. By the end the third course, students will create a market-informed and executable business plan.

• Computer skills to access learning materials via e-learning modality and learning management system (Canvas)
• College-level writing and reading skills

By registering in this certificate program, you acknowledge that you meet the above prerequisites.

Business Foundations

• Describe factors affecting today’s businesses.
• Explain options for starting and growing a business.
• Describe methods for managing quality and competitiveness.
• Examine human resource as a source of competitive advantage.
• Explain the role of developing relationships as a function of marketing.
• Explore the role of finance in meeting organizational goals.
• Apply business concepts in meeting organizational goals.

Marketing Foundations

• Explain the role of marketing in business plans.
• Describe the consumer decision process.
• Explain the purpose of segmenting, targeting, and position in marketing.
• Describe methods for capturing and communicating value.
• Apply marketing principles to create value.

Business Planning

• Conduct a market analysis to assess the viability of a new business proposition.
• Explain financial principles to establish foundations for success.
• Analyze systems for operations and marketing.
• Create a well-informed and executable business plan.