Business Professional Programs

Pierce College offers the Certificate in Entrepreneurship at both Ft. Steilacoom and Puyallup campuses. The program provides a broad curriculum to provide students with the tools needed to succeed as small business owners. Are you one of the “Visionaries”? You can be at the top of the mountain, be your own boss, become the owner of your very own business with the right knowledge, skills and hard work.

Students will have the opportunity to write an actual business plan, including financial statements, projections, and marketing plan. Guest speakers who have "been there" will add to the learning environment.

Courses overlap in most instances with the Associate in Business Management, so students interested in continuing their education can earn one credential, seek employment or perhaps begin their own businesses, then continue to study to enhance and build upon their knowledge base. Students who intend to transfer to a four–year institution should work closely with an advisor and complete requirements for the AA degree.

The Entrepreneurship Certificate is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in careers such as:

• Small Business Owner
• Sales Person
• Management Trainee
• Marketing Assistant

- View the program/curriculum sheet -

Entrepreneurship Outcomes

Students who receive the Certificate in Entrepreneurship will be prepared to:

• Identify and explain the advantages and disadvantages of small business ownership in a free enterprise economy.
• Develop a preliminary business plan including business description, product strategy, legal requirements, market analysis, marketing plan, organizational structure, and financial plan.
• Research a small business opportunity using a variety of information sources including forms of business ownership, federal/state/local tax implications, and resources for capitalization.
• Identify various elements that distinguish a successful business plan from an unsuccessful business plan including professional presentation, organization of content, accurate data, and funding contingencies.
• Describe the interdependent relationship of various business functions related to small business including marketing, finance, and business operations