Master of Business Creation (MBC)

NA On Campus Masters Program

University of Utah

Program Overview

The Master of Business Creation (MBC) at the University of Utah is a specialised graduate programme designed for entrepreneurs who want to launch, develop and scale their own businesses. Combining practical business education with personalised mentorship, workshops, startup resources and an accelerator-style learning experience, the programme allows founders to apply what they learn directly to their companies while earning a recognised master's degree.

Curriculum Structure

The MBC combines required academic courses, practical workshops and integrated practicum experiences. Rather than focusing primarily on traditional classroom learning, students work on their own startups throughout the programme and apply business concepts to real challenges.

Business Foundations and Startup Development: Students explore business models, learn how to evaluate and test business opportunities, and understand competitive dynamics. These subjects help founders assess customer needs, validate their business ideas, identify market opportunities and develop strategies for building sustainable enterprises.

Business Creation and Practicum: The curriculum includes practical experiences focused on business launch and development. Students work on their company's growth plans while receiving guidance from faculty members, experienced entrepreneurs and mentors. The cohort structure also allows students to learn from other founders and exchange ideas about business challenges.

Business Operations and Leadership: Students develop knowledge of legal issues, contracting and negotiation for entrepreneurs, alongside leadership and human resource management. These areas help founders understand the responsibilities involved in managing teams, negotiating business agreements and building organisations that can grow.

Workshops and Applied Learning: Special-topic workshops and practical sessions complement the required courses. Students can apply their learning to areas such as finance, marketing, product development, business operations and customer acquisition, depending on their company's needs.

Focus Areas

Entrepreneurship, startup development, business model innovation, market validation, competitive strategy, business launch, business growth and scaling, financial planning, legal issues and contracting, negotiation, leadership, human resource management, customer acquisition, business operations and innovation.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to develop and evaluate business models, identify market opportunities, validate business concepts, analyse competitive environments, create strategies for business growth, manage financial and operational challenges, negotiate business agreements, lead teams, navigate uncertainty and make informed decisions to build sustainable enterprises.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The MBC is an accredited professional master's degree offered by the David Eccles School of Business at the University of Utah. The programme is delivered by the Department of Entrepreneurship & Strategy in partnership with the Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute. Its curriculum combines academic business education with practical startup development, mentoring and applied entrepreneurial experiences. The degree is designed specifically for business founders rather than as a conventional MBA or professional licensing qualification.

Reputation and Career Opportunities

The David Eccles School of Business highlights its entrepreneurship programmes among the top 10 in the nation, citing recognition from U.S. News & World Report and The Princeton Review. The MBC also provides access to experienced mentors, business resources, networking opportunities and potential funding support through the university's entrepreneurship ecosystem.

The programme is particularly suitable for people who intend to build and manage their own companies rather than follow a conventional employment-focused career path. Graduates can pursue opportunities as startup founders, entrepreneurs, business owners, chief executive officers, business development managers, innovation managers, venture development professionals, startup consultants, social entrepreneurs and business strategy consultants.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates may pursue further study in entrepreneurship, business administration, innovation management or related fields, subject to the admission requirements of the institution.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Utah, the Master of Business Creation (MBC) program is designed to immerse students in real-world business experiences, equipping them with the practical skills necessary to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. The program emphasizes experiential learning through hands-on projects, collaboration with industry professionals, and access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources. Students engage in a dynamic learning environment that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship.

Here’s how the MBC program enhances your learning experience:

- Business Creation Lab: A dedicated space where students can collaborate on projects, brainstorm ideas, and develop their business concepts with access to essential tools and resources.
- Internship Opportunities: The program connects students with local startups and established companies, providing valuable internship experiences that enhance practical skills and professional networks.
- Group Projects: Students work in teams to tackle real business challenges, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings while developing teamwork and leadership skills.
- Digital Tools: Access to software like Salesforce, Tableau, and other analytics tools helps students gain proficiency in essential business technologies.
- Field Trips: Regular visits to local businesses and entrepreneurial hubs provide insights into the operational aspects of successful companies and the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
- Research Facilities: The university offers access to various research labs and resources, enabling students to conduct market research and develop innovative solutions.
- Libraries and Resources: The J. Willard Marriott Library provides extensive resources, including databases, journals, and study spaces tailored for business research.
- Entrepreneurship Institute: The Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute offers additional support, mentorship, and resources for aspiring entrepreneurs, enhancing the overall learning experience.

By participating in these experiential learning opportunities, you’ll not only gain theoretical knowledge but also develop the practical skills and confidence needed to launch your own business or excel in the corporate world.

Consider applying to the MBC program and take the first step toward transforming your business ideas into reality!

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Business Creation (MBC) program at the University of Utah equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the dynamic business landscape. Alumni of this program often find themselves in exciting roles such as Business Development Manager, Entrepreneurial Consultant, and Product Manager. With a strong foundation in innovation and entrepreneurship, graduates are well-prepared to lead and create impactful ventures:

- University Services: The Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute offers resources like mentorship, funding opportunities, and networking events to help students launch their own businesses or excel in established companies.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates of the MBC program have a high employment rate, with many securing positions within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for MBC alumni is competitive, often exceeding $70,000 annually.
- University–Industry Partnerships: The University of Utah has strong ties with local and national businesses, providing students with invaluable internship opportunities and real-world projects that enhance their learning experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The MBC program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), ensuring that your degree holds significant value in the job market.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates leave the program not only with a degree but also with a robust portfolio of projects and experiences that demonstrate their capabilities to potential employers.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MBC program, students have the option to pursue further studies, such as a Ph.D. in Business Administration or specialized certifications in areas like data analytics or digital marketing. This can enhance their expertise and open doors to academic or high-level consulting roles. The MBC program lays a solid foundation for lifelong learning and professional growth, ensuring that you remain competitive in an ever-evolving business environment.