Courses

Washington University offers 51 entrepreneurship courses throughout each of the University's Schools and Colleges. Many of these courses are cross-listed or open to students in different degree programs. For the most part, courses are open to both undergraduate and graduate students with few prerequisites. Download the Spring 2010 Curriculum Guide and Course Schedule.

Undergraduate students may earn a major in entrepreneurship and MBA students may complete a concentration in entrepreneurship. All undergraduate students are also eligible to complete the Certificate of Accomplishment in Entrepreneurship.

The learning goals for entrepreneurship courses are grouped into four categories culminating in meaningful capstone experiences:

• Perspective Courses expand students' understanding of self and the role of entrepreneurship in the world.
• Skills Courses give students' tools to become competent in applied learning from their core discipline(s).
• Simulated Experience Courses apply perspectives and skills in ways that test students' entrepreneurial abilities, comfort level, and self-confidence in collaborative, multi-discipline situations.
• Action and Outcome Courses challenge students to team with others and engage in off-campus initiatives that connect them with their personal areas of passion. These capstone experiences cement learning and further extend their perspectives, skills, collaborative abilities, and confidence.

The Hatchery (Business Planning for New Enterprises) is the University's flagship entrepreneurship course. This course is offered by the Olin Business School and is open to all students at the University. Students in the class form teams around a commercial or social venture idea proposed by a student or community entrepreneur. The deliverables for the course include two presentations to a panel of judges and a complete business plan for commercial ventures and a sustainability plan for social ventures. The Skandalaris Center recommends this course for students who are interested in starting their own venture, and it is a great step towards competing in the Olin Cup or YouthBridge Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation Competition.