Degree in Entrepreneurship

Associate in Technical Arts Degree in Entrepreneurship (ATA)
The ATA in Entrepreneurship is a unique, interdisciplinary, hands-on experience that explores the innovation and design of small businesses. In your first year, you will learn first-hand about entrepreneurship as you launch a real business with your classmates. Throughout the program, you will learn about the various business functions and the role of creativity, innovation, teamwork and communication. As you complete the degree, you will have the opportunity to consult in teams to existing business owners in the community. As a graduate of this program , you will have the knowledge and experience to launch your own business or become a valued employee.

A Brief Overview of the Degree
You will begin the program by learning an entrepreneurial framework and gaining entrepreneurial skills in Small Business Essentials (BUS105). Then you will apply what you've learned by experiencing the business life-cycle by launching a real business with your classmates during Entrepreneurship I and II (BUS205/206). In student teams, you will start, manage, grow, and then liquidate a business over the course of two quarters. As you complete the program, you will have the opportunity to consult to existing women and minority business owners in Snohomish County during Business Development Consulting (BUS255).

Through the duration of the program, you will also take courses in: Business Communication, Accounting, Marketing, Management, Business Law, and Economics.

Unique Courses in the Entrepreneurship Program

BUS 105 Small Business Essentials*
The study of small business with an emphasis on using design-thinking to identify and successfully pursue business opportunities. Topics include identifying a viable business opportunity, using business planning tools, preparing a marketing plan, and understanding the functions of management, operations and financial planning. Major business functions and the business lifecycle will be explored.

BUS 205 and BUS 206 Entrepreneurship I and II*
This is a two-course series immersing students in the world of business. Students will actually start a business by creating, implementing, developing, launching and managing a new venture. This hands-on course involves off campus activities and online interaction. Under the direction of academic staff, advisors and mentors, students will work in teams to run a new venture. Funding for the student teams will be provided by the college.
*These three courses can be taken for a small business certificate.

BUS 102 Innovations in Design
Explores the role of creativity, teamwork, and communication in promoting innovative design. Students develop their knowledge and skills in all three areas through a series of hands-on projects and reflective activities. Students will work in teams to complete the projects and present their experiences and results through various communication formats.

BUS 255 Business Consulting
Student teams will consult existing small businesses in Snohomish County. Examples of consulting services provided by students included developing marketing strategies, building company web sites and databases, completing financial analysis, developing human resource management systems, and improving operational infrastructures.

This 90-credit degree has been accepted for transfer to Evergreen State College and provides junior standing to admitted students who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s degree.http://www.evergreen.edu/

There are no perquisites to start the program. However, strong skills in writing, mathematics, and public speaking are helpful. In addition, students should have computer literacy skills and library research knowledge. The ability to create innovative solutions to complex problems, filter and organize information, and work in teams are helpful characteristics.