Entrepreneur

Why Entrepreneur?

Entrepreneurs turn ideas into reality through creativity, strategy, and determination. In this program, you will learn how to start, manage, and grow a successful business by developing essential skills in planning, leadership, and innovation. You will gain the confidence to take charge of your own venture or bring entrepreneurial thinking into any organization.

At Mid-State, you’ll work alongside small business professionals and mentors who guide you through the process of building a business plan from concept to presentation. You’ll graduate ready to launch your own enterprise or apply your entrepreneurial mindset in a variety of career paths.

Develop business expertise in accounting, marketing, management, and customer service.
Create and refine a comprehensive business plan for your own venture.
Learn to present and pitch your ideas with clarity and confidence.
Collaborate with local business professionals and access real-world resources.
Build leadership, responsibility, and problem-solving skills for long-term success.
Prepare to lead as your own boss or drive innovation within an existing organization.

Apply Now Request Information

Program Facts

Total Credits

17 Credits

Degree Type

Technical Degree

Program Length

One Year

Delivery Method

In Person, Online, Online Live, Hybrid

Location

Adams, Marshfield, Stevens Point Downtown, Wisconsin Rapids, Online

Start Dates

Fall, Spring, Summer

Estimated Program Cost

$3,260.55

View Cost of Attendance

Financial Aid Eligibility

Fully Eligible

View Types of Aid

Program Outcomes

Graduates leave ready to succeed in their careers. Each year, data from Mid-State's Graduate Survey and statewide reports show consistently high satisfaction and strong starting salaries. Here's a snapshot of what success looks like after graduation.

Career Opportunities

Business Owner

Entrepreneur

Founder/CEO

$109k Median Annual Salary

Recent program grads in Wisconsin earned a starting salary of $108,807. Source: Lightcast Data Set

1,798

Average Monthly Hires

1,798 of recent Wisconsin program grads landed jobs within six months of graduation. Source: Lightcast Data Set

100%

Mid-State Graduate Satisfaction Rate

Students leave proud, prepared, and confident in what comes next. Source: Mid-State Graduate Survey Results

Program Details

Take a closer look at what the program offers and what to expect.

Program Courses

Your course plan may vary, and you'll get a recommended sequence once you're enrolled. See below for full course details, see the program information guide, or talk with your advisor.

Program Information Guide (PDF)

Instructors

Meet our full-time instructors.

Brian Bartel, BS, MS, EdD
Dr. Bartel received his doctorate from the University of Wisconsin–Stout. His professional experience includes twenty plus years working within the financial, Investment, and insurance industries in a variety of managerial roles and for a number of well-known and local companies, including Sentry Insurance, Thrivent Financial, and American Express.

“Learning is a lifelong journey—investing in yourself will be, by far, the best investment you may ever make!”

Program Outcomes

Employers will expect graduates of this program to be able to:

Demonstrate an entrepreneurial mindset.
Develop a business canvas and/or plan.
Outline business operational plan.
Develop a business marketing plan.

Employability Skills

Alongside your career training, you'll develop key workplace strengths. Explore the additional skills you'll build.

Employability Skills (PDF)

Technical Standards

To succeed in this program, you'll need to meet certain technical standards. These are the key skills and abilities needed for the program and future career success—with or without reasonable accommodations. Be sure to review them carefully before you apply.

Technical Standards (PDF)

Career pathways help you build your education step by step. Each stage offers one or more credentials that are recognized by employers and lead to real jobs—and you can keep building toward your career goals as you go.

Prior Learning

Certificate

Technical Diploma

Associate Degree

Bachelor's Degree

Get credit for what you already know. You may be able to earn college credit for prior learning through skills you’ve gained through high school classes, previous college work, self-study, military training, jobs, or volunteer experience.

Credit for Prior Learning
High School Dual Credit
Mid-State Fast-Track – Open to high school students

“Most students go to college to find good-paying careers doing something they enjoy. Mid-State gave me that and so much more, as I discovered my passion and achieved more than I ever could have anticipated.”

- Bryce C.

Mid-State Grad

“I couldn't have asked for a better education. My instructors were some of the most incredible people, and they were willing to do whatever was necessary to help everyone.”

- Leslie T.

Mid-State Grad

“Mid-State’s hands-on learning, convenient scheduling, updated technology, and instructors who can relate to the field have all helped me become successful and even advance in my career in under a year.”

- Stephanie B.

Mid-State Grad

“I value my experience at Mid-State tremendously. Even with a disability my education gave me the opportunity to join the workforce before I even graduated. Education equals opportunity.”

- Jake A.

Mid-State Grad

“My degree from Mid-State and the encouragement I received from my teachers gave me the skills and confidence to move forward in my life and excel in my career.”

- Sharon R.

Mid-State Grad

“The education I received at Mid-State has been invaluable. It built a foundation that is endlessly improving, providing excellent growth opportunities in my career.”

- Kevin B.

Mid-State Grad