An MBA With a Focus in Entrepreneurship

Stonehill's Master of Business Administration (MBA) program allows aspiring business leaders to broaden their business knowledge and hone their skill set and apply them both in ways beneficial to their organizations and society.

Through the entrepreneurship specialization, students gain the in-demand knowledge and skills to lead with an entrepreneurial mindset within any organization, including how to identify and pursue new business opportunities, develop innovative solutions, and navigate the complexities of starting and growing ventures, both within and outside of an organization. Students will emerge with the skills to combine the opportunity-seeking mindset of an entrepreneur with strong, strategic leadership skills.

Through this specialization, students will:

  • Develop an understanding of successful business models and their development.
  • Acquire skills for managing a growing business for short-term and long-term success.
  • Develop the leadership and management skills needed for the entrepreneurial environment.
  • Identify the financial and legal issues relevant to entrepreneurial endeavors.
  • Develop strategies for practicing an entrepreneurial mindset within an organization as well as a start-up venture.

All MBA students are required to take a set of core courses as well as the specialization courses to complete their program. For the entrepreneurship specialization, courses such as Entrepreneurial Leadership & Management and Managing a Growing Business broaden their understanding and strengthen their skills in key areas to develop strong leadership skills. The 36-credit program includes a combination of thought leadership, collaborative projects and hands-on simulations.

Become an Entrepreneurial Leader

With entrepreneurship ventures continuing to surge since 2019 and revenues expected to increase, now is the time to gain the entrepreneurial leadership skills that will allow you to succeed in this fast-paced environment.

$115,848
Average Salary

The average salary for an entrepreneur in residence is $115,848, according to salary.com.

430,000
New Business Applications Per Month

In 2024, there was an average of 430,000 new business applications per month in the United States, 50% more than in 2019, according to the U.S. Department of Treasury.

72%
Small Businesses expect revenue to increase

72% of small businesses say they expect revenue to continue to increase in 2025, according to MetLife and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Sample Courses

Entrepreneurial Leadership & Management

This course focuses on developing the leadership and management skills necessary for success in entrepreneurial ventures. Students will explore how entrepreneurs lead and manage their businesses through the phases of startup, growth, and scaling, with a focus on creating value, building strong teams, and driving innovation. The course emphasizes practical strategies for navigating the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, such as resource constraints, risk management, and market competition. Students will learn how to effectively lead teams, make strategic decisions, and foster a culture of innovation within their organizations. The course covers key aspects of entrepreneurial management, including operational efficiency, financial oversight, and growth strategies, equipping students with the tools to lead successfully in both small businesses and high-growth startups.

Business Models & Development

This course explores the strategic design, innovation, and development of business models in both established organizations and startups. Students learn to create, evaluate, and refine business models that can drive growth, profitability, and sustainability. Through a combination of frameworks, case studies, and practical applications, the course will cover key topics such as value proposition design, customer segmentation, revenue models, and the integration of technology in business model innovation. Emphasizing both traditional and emerging business models, the course will provide students with tools to adapt and thrive in rapidly changing business environments. By the end of the course, students will have a comprehensive understanding of how to innovate and adapt business models to meet evolving market demands, enhance organizational performance, and capture new opportunities.

Managing a Growing Business

This course examines the unique challenges and strategic decisions involved in managing a business beyond the startup phase and through various stages of growth. Focusing on the complexities and challenges of managing growth, students will explore key areas such as operational efficiency, organizational structure, leadership, financial management, marketing strategies, and strategic decision-making in expanding businesses. Students will learn how to address the unique challenges that arise during the growth phase, including maintaining company culture, managing resources, overcoming operational hurdles, and navigating market competition. The course emphasizes an experiential approach to growth management and equips students to lead and manage organizations effectively through periods of expansion while maintaining agility, innovation, and profitability.

Earn a Graduate Certificate in Entrepreneurship

For professionals looking to expand their knowledge in entrepreneurship, Stonehill also offers a five-course professional certificate in entrepreneurship. This certificate provides a way for business professionals to gain the valuable knowledge and skills to succeed as an entrepreneur.

If a student completes the Entrepreneurship Graduate Certificate and wishes to pursue their master's degree in business administration, these courses can be applied toward the master's degree.

Upcoming Graduate & Professional Studies Events

  • Virtual Information Sessions

    Join us for a virtual information session or drop-in session to learn more about our master’s degree and certificate programs.

Contact Information

Graduate & Professional Studies Admission assists students as they explore graduate and professional opportunities offered at Stonehill College. 

Kristin M. McGillicuddy

Kristin M. McGillicuddy

Professor of Practice in Graduate Marketing and Director, Graduate Business Administration Program
Graduate Studies