This online course provides learners with a fundamental understanding of the most critical areas in small business management. Throughout nine segments, learners will explore the varied tasks, such as accounting, budgeting, business law, marketing, and project management, that small business owners must master to be successful. The self-paced course offers an assortment of interactive exercises, videos, case studies, and self-assessments that engage students and provide opportunities to practice business management skills.

Topics covered in the course:

• Introduction to Small Business Management
• Accounting Fundamentals for Small Business
• Budgeting Financial Analysis for Small Business
• HR Fundamentals for Small Business
• Law for Small Businesses
• Leading and Managing Small Businesses
• Project Management for Small Business
• Small Business Marketing

Download the complete syllabus with learning outcomes here.

This course has been evaluated by The American Council on Education's College Credit Recommendation Service (ACE CREDIT®) with a recommendation of 3 credits, lower division, in small business management.

Successful completion for the ACE CREDIT® designation is based on student performance on a final cumulative exam. The final exam is composed of 80 multiple-choice questions. Students will have 2.5 hours to complete the exam. The exam is proctored. For more information, please see the syllabus.

If students do not earn a passing score of 70% on their first attempt, they will have the opportunity to take the exam 2 additional times (3 total attempts). Students must wait 24 hours between exam retakes. A passing score of 70% of above is required to request college credit for this certificate.