Small Business Entrepreneurship
Associate in Science School of Business and Economics · Merced College · 2026-2027 Catalog
The Entrepreneurship programs at Merced College are designed to equip students with the necessary skills to start and operate a small business.
Students who possess industry skills or talents will be educated in areas to help them be successful business people. Additionally, students who complete undergraduate coursework in the field of entrepreneurship will be prepared for transfer to a four-year institution.
An Associate of Science Degree in Small Business Entrepreneurship is available upon satisfactory completion of the graduation requirements and completing the 29 units of course work. Students must meet the graduation requirements and complete the major requirements with the following core courses with a grade of “C” or higher in each course.
Program Student Learning Outcomes
A. Assess a new business’ potential in the external environment in order to distinguish between a business idea and a business opportunity.
B. Analyze financial information associated with starting up a new business and maintaining an existing business.
C. Present a business plan suitable for potential investors and/or financial lending institutions.
D. Demonstrate techniques to promote a new business venture using current methods.
Program Requirements:
Program Core: (29 Units)
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| ACTG-31 | Computerized Accounting | 2 |
| BUS-10 | Introduction to Business | 3 |
| BUS-35 | Money Management | 3 |
| AOM-30 | Introduction to Computer Applications | 3 |
| AOM-43 | Essentials of Business Communication | 3 |
| MGMT-31 | Principles of Management | 3 |
| MGMT-33 | Elements of Effective Leadership | 3 |
| BUS-37 | Small Business Entrepreneurship | 3 |
| MKTG-30 | Principles of Marketing | 3 |
| MKTG-33 | Advertising | 3 |
| Select two courses from management Series | ||
| MGMT-50A | Challenges of Leadership: Difficult People/Tough Conversations | 0.5 |
| MGMT-50B | Values and Ethics | 0.5 |
| MGMT-50C | Time Management | 0.5 |
| MGMT-50D | Communication in the Workplace | 0.5 |
| MGMT-50F | Team Building | 0.5 |
| MGMT-50G | Decision Making and Problem Solving | 0.5 |
| MGMT-50H | Customer Service | 0.5 |
| MGMT-50I | Attitude in the Workplace | 0.5 |
| MGMT-50J | Thrive and Survive in the Workplace | 0.5 |
| MGMT-51C | Leadership Essentials: What Emerging Leaders Need to Know | 0.5 |
| MGMT-51F | Conflict Resolution | 0.5 |
| MGMT-51G | Stress Management and Counseling | 0.5 |
| MGMT-52C | Successful Business Speaking | 0.5 |
| MGMT-52D | Managing Organizational Change | 0.5 |
| Total | 30 | |
Completion of MCCD-GE Breadth: (24 units)
Elective (as needed to reach 60 units) Units: (6 Units)
Total Degree Units: (60 Units)