Upper Iowa University launches entrepreneurship courses with $25,000 grant from Coleman Foundation
FAYETTE, Iowa (October 17, 2012) — Upper Iowa University will soon begin offering three elective course options to help prepare would-be entrepreneurs to launch their business concepts. Funding for the courses came from a $25,000.grant given to UIU by the Coleman Foundation.
"We are excited to be offering these entrepreneurship courses as electives in the business majors," said UIU Acting President Dr. Richard Patrick, who also serves as a faculty member in the Division of Business. "These courses not only provide important preparation for the many students who have an idea for creating a new business, but they also offer the University the ability to explore the viability of offering additional coursework in entrepreneurship. The courses might even lead to a new UIU minor and/or major in the future."
"The entrepreneurial spirit has long been a part of the University, and we know that the small businesses born from entrepreneurship are the life blood of rural communities like ours," added Andrew Wenthe, UIU vice president for external affairs. "The Coleman grant helps us carry on our commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and supporting economic development, and we are very grateful."
The first entrepreneurship class begins Monday, October 22, with the new academic term at UIU. The course, "New Venture Creation," is being accepted as an elective in both the management and marketing emphasis areas in the business degree program. Enrollment will be accepted later this fall in two additional elective courses, "New Venture Finance" and "Social Entrepreneurship," both of which are scheduled for the third UIU term, which begins January 7, 2013. UIU has a unique academic calendar that offers six eight-week terms annually.
A team of UIU faculty members developed and are teaching all three courses, which are only offered online. However, any UIU business major may enroll in the courses.
About Upper Iowa University
Founded in 1857, Upper Iowa University is a private, not-for-profit university providing undergraduate and graduate degree programs and leadership development opportunities to some 6,200 students—nationally and internationally—at its Fayette campus and learning centers worldwide. Upper Iowa University is a recognized innovator in offering accredited, quality programs through flexible, multiple delivery systems, including online and independent study.
Contact:
Monica Bayer Heaton
Executive Director of Communications and Marketing
Phone: 563-425-5773
Cell: 515-291-2070
heatonm@uiu.edu