National Paralegal College | Evaluated Learning Experience
Small Business Management (BUS-401)
Varies; self-study format.
July 2016 - Present.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: utilize the nine steps of the strategic planning process to design a strategic business plan; conduct a feasibility analysis and create a solid business model; compare the laws, benefits, and drawbacks of various forms of business entities and ownerships; identify the advantages and disadvantages of buying an existing business and delineate the steps in buying an existing business properly; employ competitive marketing strategies, including customer focus, quality, convenience, innovation, service, and speed; utilize the strategies to achieve success in e-commerce, including designing striking and effective websites, and tracking web results; compare pricing methods and strategies for retailers, manufacturers, and service firms and describe the impact of credit on pricing; prepare financial statements as well as conduct a break-even analysis for a small company; create a cash budget and explain the techniques for avoiding a cash crunch; compare the various sources of funding for a small company and describe the advantages of each; explain the stages in the location decision: choosing the region, the state, the city, the specific site and the criteria affecting that decision; and run a successful small business, using the principles and lessons from this course.
This course examines fundamental principles, problems and practices of entrepreneurship and provides students with a foundation of small business management skills and the creativity and knowledge needed to develop a successful business. Marketing strategies and principles including location, pricing methods, and funding are discussed. An emphasis is placed on the strategies an entrepreneur might use to develop a successful business online; elements of a good business plan and other aspects of business ownership. For the duration of the course, students participate in a business simulation which allows for development of business management skills and the practice of techniques learned in the course. Evaluation criteria include: required readings, practice assignments, class participation, and a final exam.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Small Business Management, Marketing, or as a general management elective (3/18).
