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Entrepreneurship

The Entrepreneurship major at William Penn University is designed to cultivate visionary thinkers and innovative leaders ready to bring bold ideas to life. This program offers a dynamic, hands-on curriculum that guides students through the complete business development cycle—from initial concept to a fully realized business plan.

The Entrepreneurship Program

Students begin their academic journey by exploring foundational principles of entrepreneurship, business strategy, and market research. As they progress, they engage in real-world applications, including product design, budgeting, sourcing, marketing, and operations. Each course is intentionally structured to build upon the last, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to launch and sustain a successful venture.

Throughout the program, students research material costs, identify reliable manufacturers and suppliers, and evaluate production methods. They also explore legal, ethical, and financial considerations essential to business ownership. By graduation, each student has created a full-scale business proposal, backed by in-depth industry research and a clear path toward execution.

Whether aiming to launch a startup, run a family business, or become a leader in innovation, students leave prepared to turn their ideas into impactful enterprises.

Entrepreneurship is a key force behind global innovation and economic growth, with small businesses making up over 90% of enterprises worldwide. The demand for entrepreneurial thinkers is growing rapidly across industries—from local startups to global corporations—creating diverse opportunities for those ready to lead and innovate.

Here are some careers you will be qualified for as a graduate of the program:

 

  • Business Owner/ Startup Founder
  • Product Developer

  • Business Development Specialist

  • Innovation Consultant

  • Franchise Operator

  • Operations Manager

  • E-commerce Entrepreneur

  • Supply Chain Analyst

  • Marketing Strategist

  • Venture Capital Analyst

Internships in entrepreneurship offer invaluable real-world experience, allowing students to apply innovative thinking in dynamic, fast-paced environments. From startups to small businesses and corporate innovation teams, these hands-on opportunities build critical skills in leadership, strategy, and adaptability—core traits of successful entrepreneurs.

Here are some internship opportunities commonly pursued by Entrepreneurship majors:

  • Local Small Business Operations Intern (retail, food service, wellness, etc.)

  • Mahaska Chamber & Development Group Intern (economic development & business support)

  • E-Commerce & Social Media Intern for local boutiques and startups

  • Business Development Intern at area banks or credit unions

  • Manufacturing & Supply Chain Intern with local producers or distributors

  • Marketing & Branding Intern for local nonprofits or family-owned enterprises

  • Entrepreneurship Assistant at co-working spaces or community business hubs

  • Agribusiness Innovation Intern with regional farms or ag-tech firms

  • Event Planning & Promotion Intern for community events and markets

  • Franchise Operations Intern with local branches of national brands

The Entrepreneurship Club is a new and exciting addition to William Penn University, offering students a unique opportunity to turn ideas into action. Guided by Assistant Professor of Business Brittny Tschetter, members will develop, market, and sell their own snack products—gaining firsthand experience in product development, branding, and sales. This hands-on club is perfect for students looking to explore entrepreneurship in a creative and supportive environment.

Learn More About Student Organizations

Faculty

Associate Professor of Business

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Assistant Professor of Business

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Assistant Professor of Business

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Associate Professor of Business

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