Community Entrepreneurship The University of Vermont

Overview

The Community Entrepreneurship B.S. at The University of Vermont provides students with a comprehensive foundation in enterprise development and strategic business management. This degree focuses on the vital role that small businesses and social enterprises play in fostering healthy, resilient local communities. By combining economic theory with practical application, the programme prepares graduates to lead organisations with a focus on ethical growth and social capital.

The curriculum is designed to mirror the professional lifecycle of a business, introducing students to the core functions of executive leadership. Through a series of specialised courses, learners explore the responsibilities of various "C-level" roles, including financial management, marketing strategy, and operational decision-making.

Why Community Entrepreneurship at The University of Vermont?

The University of Vermont offers a unique educational environment where business skills are taught alongside community ethics and natural resource stewardship. The programme is well-known for its award-winning "Dollar Enterprise" course, which provides a practical platform for students to engage in real-world commerce. Students benefit from strong institutional links with regional organisations such as Shelburne Farms, Cabot, and the Intervale Community Farm.

These partnerships provide invaluable opportunities for interaction with established entrepreneurs and industry experts. By working on projects with local non-profits and businesses, students apply their academic knowledge to solve genuine community challenges. This focus on social responsibility ensures that graduates are not only skilled business professionals but also conscientious contributors to the global economy.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 46655 per year
• National fee: USD 46655 per year
• Local fee: USD 16938 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on the foundations of successful enterprise development and strategic planning. Modules may include:

• Community Entrepreneurship
• Marketing for Community Entrepreneurs
• Financial Management for Community Entrepreneurs
• Strategic Decision Making for Community Entrepreneurs
• Strategic Business Planning for Community Entrepreneurs
• Community Development and Applied Economics

Careers with Community Entrepreneurship

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of leadership and analytical roles across various sectors. Many alumni choose to pursue small business ownership or management, while others find success in financial consulting and market analysis. The programme's emphasis on versatile business skills also leads to opportunities in food systems, app development, and digital content management.

Former students have secured positions at prominent organisations such as Patagonia, Cox Automotive, and 1% for the Planet. Common job titles for graduates include Chief Marketing Officer, Small Business Analyst, Digital Analyst, and Economic Consultant. The degree provides the necessary tools for students to launch their own startups or take on executive roles in established companies and non-profit organisations.