Turning a side hustle into a career is possible with the right skills. The Associated Press reported that a record 5.5 million new business applications were filed in 2023. But is passion enough, or could a master’s degree give you the edge to innovate and succeed? Use OMD’s guide to explore online master’s programs in entrepreneurship, and to learn how they can empower you to launch your own profitable business. Reflective questions to help me determine if this degree aligns with my goals and readiness… An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more… A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses… What doors open after graduating with my master’s degree… Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree… A list of today’s best online and hybrid programs based on quality, affordability, and student support…
Before You Begin…
Pursuing a master’s in entrepreneurship is an exciting step, but it’s important to ensure it aligns with your goals, needs, and readiness. Before you apply, take a moment for self-reflection. Ask yourself the following questions to gauge if you’re prepared for the commitment — and opportunity — that an online entrepreneurship program entails:
- Do I have a clear goal for this degree? For example, launching a specific startup, expanding a family business, or innovating in my current industry.
- Am I prepared to invest the time, energy, and money required? Consider how you’ll balance an online program with work or personal responsibilities.
- What skills or knowledge gaps do I need to fill? Think about whether you need more expertise in areas like finance, marketing, or leadership to complement your entrepreneurial instincts.
- Can I stay self-motivated in an online learning environment? Online programs offer flexibility but require discipline to keep up with coursework without in-person reminders.
- How will I leverage the program’s resources? Am I ready to network with peers and mentors, seek feedback on my venture ideas, and fully utilize mentorship, workshops, or incubator opportunities?
Reflecting honestly on these questions can help confirm that you’re not only ready to pursue an entrepreneurship master’s, but also positioned to get the most value out of the experience.
Profiling Three Online Entrepreneurship Master’s Programs
Below, we profile three accredited U.S. universities that offer reputable online (or hybrid) master’s programs in entrepreneurship. Each summary includes key details about format, length, cost, admissions, and career outcomes to help you compare options.
University of Florida (UF) — Master of Science in Entrepreneurship (MSE)
The University of Florida’s online M.S. in Entrepreneurship is a 32-credit, one-year graduate program designed to “awaken the entrepreneurial spirit.” It’s a 100% online program with no campus visits required, making it accessible to students anywhere. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning — students learn cutting-edge entrepreneurial theory and immediately apply it by consulting for small businesses, commercializing new technologies, and launching their own ventures. The program can be completed in 12 months of full-time study, though working professionals have the option to spread courses over a second year for flexibility.
UF’s program is open to students from any academic background (no business undergrad required). Notably, GRE/GMAT scores are not required for admission. Students benefit from UF’s robust entrepreneurship ecosystem — including access to experienced faculty and the Gator alumni network — which can lead to mentorship and funding opportunities. Graduates of the MSE program have gone on to launch startups, grow family businesses, and take on innovation roles in companies, armed with both a credential and real venture experience.
Duration: 1 year full-time (32 credits). Option to extend to 2 years part-time for working students.
Mode: 100% Online (no residency requirements)
Cost: In-state tuition approx. $16,982; Out-of-state $38,724 (total for 32 credits)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (with 3.0+ GPA in last 60 credits)
- Statement of purpose (2 pages outlining goals)
- 2 letters of recommendation
- Résumé (professional experience detailed)
- Official academic transcripts
- No GRE/GMAT required (test scores waived)
University of Oklahoma — Master of Science in Entrepreneurship & Innovation
The University of Oklahoma (OU) offers an AACSB-accredited Master of Science in Entrepreneurship & Innovation through its Price College of Business. This 30-credit program is delivered primarily online and can be finished in as little as 12 months. It stands out for its “hybrid” format: all coursework is online, but students participate in a one-week on-campus residency that provides hands-on, immersive learning and networking. During this residency, students might engage in entrepreneurial leadership exercises and meet industry experts. The curriculum spans topics like opportunity recognition, venture development, innovation strategy, and change management — equipping graduates to launch startups or drive innovation within existing companies.
The program is designed for working professionals and offers rolling admissions (you can start in fall, spring, or summer). Classes are largely asynchronous online, allowing you to balance coursework with your job. OU does not require GRE/GMAT scores, focusing instead on your academic background and motivation for entrepreneurship. Graduates gain not only a master’s credential but also access to OU’s extensive alumni network and career support services in the startup community. Many go on to start new ventures, join innovative firms, or advance into product development and business consulting roles.
Duration: 12 months full-time (30 credits). Flexible pacing available (can extend slightly if needed)
Mode: Online courses + 1-week in-person residency (hybrid format)
Cost: $985 per credit (approx. $29,550 total tuition)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (from a regionally accredited institution)
- Résumé (current professional experience)
- Official transcripts from all college coursework
- Personal statement (why you want to pursue this program)
- No GRE/GMAT required (standardized tests are waived)
- TOEFL/IELTS (for international applicants, to demonstrate English proficiency)
Penn State World Campus — Master of Corporate Innovation & Entrepreneurship (MCI&E)
Penn State University’s World Campus offers a Master of Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship, a 33-credit online program focused on developing innovative leaders and startup founders. This program — delivered through Penn State’s renowned Smeal College of Business — blends entrepreneurship with corporate innovation coursework, preparing graduates to launch new ventures or drive innovation in established organizations. The curriculum is interdisciplinary and customizable: students take core courses in innovation strategy, new product development, and entrepreneurial leadership, and can choose electives. All courses are taught 100% online with no residency requirement, and the format is designed to be flexible for working adults. In fact, many students study part-time (1-2 courses per semester) while working, finishing the degree in about 20–28 months.
The online learning experience is largely asynchronous, with weekly modules, discussion boards, and project-based assessments. Penn State World Campus prides itself on strong support: classes often include live optional sessions and faculty feedback, and students have access to academic advisors, tech support, and the vast Penn State alumni network.
Duration: Typically 20–28 months (part-time).
Mode: 100% Online (asynchronous learning; no on-campus requirements)
Cost: $1,027 per credit (approximately $33,900 total tuition for 33 credits)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (from a regionally accredited institution)
- 3 years of professional work experience (preferred, not strictly required)
- Official transcripts (from all post-secondary institutions attended)
- Résumé or CV (detailing work and educational history)
- Statement of purpose (2–3 pages outlining career goals and reasons for pursuing the degree)
- No GRE/GMAT required (test scores are not considered)
- English proficiency test (TOEFL/IELTS for international applicants)
Understanding Cost: Pricing the Online Entrepreneurship Master’s
The cost of an online entrepreneurship master’s program will depend on a few key factors: tuition rate, number of credits required, and additional fees or expenses. Tuition is usually charged on a per-credit basis, so programs with more credits or higher per-credit rates will have a higher total price. Fixed costs typically include tuition and mandatory university fees (like technology or distance learning fees). Variable costs include textbooks, course materials, and any travel (if the program has an in-person residency or if you choose to attend networking events). The good news is that online students often save on relocation or housing costs, since you don’t need to move or commute to campus. Plus, many online learners keep working while studying, which can make financing the degree easier.
Online programs can also be comparatively affordable: some public universities offer in-state tuition discounts for online students, and you might find that total tuition ranges from around $15,000 up to $40,000 for most entrepreneurship master’s degrees. Financial aid is usually available — you can apply for federal graduate student loans, and many schools offer scholarships or payment plans for online students. Always check if the programs you’re considering have any special fees (for example, a residency fee or online platform fee) so you can budget accordingly. Below is a comparison of three programs and their costs:
School (Program) | No. of Credits | Cost per Credit | Total Cost |
---|---|---|---|
University of Florida — M.S. Entrepreneurship | 32 | $530 (FL resident); $1,210 (non-resident) | $19,080 – $38,720 |
University of Oklahoma — M.S. Entrepreneurship & Innovation | 30 | $985 | $29,550 |
Penn State (World Campus) — Master of Corp. Innovation & Ent. | 33 | $1,027 | $33,900 |
(Tuition figures above are current as of this writing; always verify on the school’s website for the most up-to-date costs.)
What’s After Your Master’s?
Earning your master’s in entrepreneurship can open the door to a wide array of careers and opportunities. Of course, many graduates go on to start their own businesses — launching startups in tech, e-commerce, consulting, or other industries. The degree provides a strong foundation in how to write business plans, secure funding, and manage growth, which can increase your venture’s chances of success. Even if you’re not immediately founding a company, the entrepreneurial mindset is highly valued in the job market. Graduates often pursue roles such as business development manager, innovation project leader, or product manager within established companies, where they drive new initiatives and strategic growth. You might lead a corporate innovation lab, develop new product lines for a brand, or spearhead a company’s expansion into new markets.
In terms of job outlook, the entrepreneurial skillset is increasingly in demand as organizations of all sizes prioritize innovation. The transferable skills you gain (like opportunity recognition, risk management, pitching and negotiation, and strategic thinking) are useful in virtually any business context. Whether you launch the next big startup, scale an existing business, or champion innovation in a corporate setting, your master’s in entrepreneurship can serve as a springboard — helping you turn ambitions into tangible career outcomes and long-term growth.
FAQs from Entrepreneurship Students
Q: How is a master’s in entrepreneurship different from an MBA?
A: An MBA covers a broad base of business disciplines (finance, marketing, operations, etc.) and often targets those looking to advance in corporate management. A master’s in entrepreneurship, on the other hand, is more specialized — focusing deeply on startup ventures, innovation, and new business development. It typically includes courses tailored to launching and growing businesses (e.g. venture capital, innovation strategy) rather than general management.
Another difference is audience and format: MBA programs (even online MBAs) usually prefer candidates with several years of work experience and may take two years to complete, whereas many entrepreneurship master’s programs welcome students with less work experience and can be completed in around one year.
Q: Do I need a ready business idea (or existing startup) before starting the program?
A: No — you do not need to have a fully formed business idea or existing startup to enroll in a master’s in entrepreneurship. These programs are designed to help you develop ideas and learn the process of entrepreneurship from scratch. Many students begin with just an interest in innovation and discover or refine their venture ideas through coursework and mentorship. For instance, you might brainstorm a concept in a class on opportunity recognition or join a team project to create a hypothetical startup. By the end of the program, even students who started with no clear idea often have a viable business plan ready.
That said, if you do already have a business idea or even an operating startup, the program can serve as a laboratory to improve and grow it — you’ll get structured feedback from professors and peers, and access to resources (like incubators or pitch competitions) to further develop your venture. In short, come with an open mind and a passion for entrepreneurship; the ideas will evolve as you learn.
Q: Can I work full-time while pursuing an online entrepreneurship master’s?
A: Yes. One of the main advantages of an online master’s program is the flexibility to continue working. Many online entrepreneurship students are working professionals who juggle jobs and even family responsibilities alongside their studies. Expect to spend roughly 10-15 hours per week on coursework for each class (this can vary by program and your course load).
Most programs allow part-time enrollment, meaning you might take just 1 or 2 courses per term if you’re working full-time. The asynchronous course structure (recorded lectures, discussion forums) lets you do the work during evenings or weekends as your schedule permits. It’s still a significant time commitment, so good time management is key, but it’s very achievable.
Q: What kind of support and networking opportunities will I get as an online student?
A: Online entrepreneurship programs typically offer robust support services similar to their on-campus counterparts. You’ll have access to professors during virtual office hours and often be assigned an academic advisor to guide you through the program. Many programs emphasize mentorship — pairing students with experienced entrepreneurs or faculty mentors who can advise on your business ideas. You’ll also likely engage in team projects, so you build relationships with classmates (who may become future business partners or collaborators).
Networking happens through virtual platforms: live class sessions, discussion boards, and sometimes optional on-campus events or meetups. Schools often host online networking events, webinars with guest speakers, or virtual pitch competitions to enhance your experience. You’ll be part of the university’s community — for example, as an online student at OU or Penn State, you join the same alumni network as on-campus grads.
Additionally, many universities have innovation hubs or incubator programs open to students (online learners can usually participate remotely or during short campus visits). Career services for online students may include resume workshops, job listings, and introductions to venture capital networks or industry contacts. In short, you won’t be going it alone — quality online programs strive to provide a rich ecosystem of support, from one-on-one guidance to a community of fellow innovators you can lean on.
Q: Is a master’s in entrepreneurship really worth it?
A: The value of a master’s in entrepreneurship depends on your goals and what you put into it. For many, it is worth it — the degree can accelerate your learning, expand your network, and add credibility as you pursue funding or partnerships. You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of how to run a business beyond just trial-and-error. This includes financial acumen, marketing strategy, operational planning, and leadership skills that can save you from common mistakes entrepreneurs make. Moreover, a graduate credential can open doors: job opportunities tend to increase with a master’s in entrepreneurship, whether that means higher-level roles in startups or innovation positions in corporations.
If you’re a career-changer, the degree provides a structured path to transition into the world of startups. You’ll also have access to your school’s resources (faculty expertise, research, competitions) which can be invaluable in shaping a successful venture. That said, entrepreneurship also values real-world experience — there are successful entrepreneurs with no formal education, and having a master’s doesn’t guarantee your startup will succeed. The degree won’t replace the need for grit, creativity, and hard work. But it will give you a toolkit of knowledge and a support network to draw on.
Best Online Master’s Programs in Entrepreneurship
With dozens of programs to choose from, how do we determine which entrepreneurship master’s stand out? Our ranking of the best online master’s in entrepreneurship was built on a thorough analysis of data from the U.S. Department of Education and information from thousands of universities themselves. We evaluated programs based on affordability (tuition rates and availability of financial aid), academic quality (accreditation and reputation), the number of online programs/courses offered, and the level of student support services (like academic advising and career counseling). Each program on our list meets high standards for curriculum excellence and flexibility for online learners. In the next section, you’ll find the results — a curated list of top online entrepreneurship master’s programs that offer a great balance of quality, support, and value for aspiring entrepreneurs.
The Strategic MBA from the University of Houston-Victoria is provided in an entirely online format. Within the online format, students can choose to attend lectures synchronously at the same time each week or to watch lectures and complete their assignments on their own time. The base MBA degree requires the completion of 30 semester credit hours, though students can pick from one of seven different concentrations (another five concentrations to come in spring 2024) if they so choose. The concentrations will add an additional six-nine credit hours. Courses are delivered in an 8-week format and are accredited by AACSB International.
Program Highlights:
Master of Business Administration
- Credits: 30+
- Length: Varies
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: AACSB
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
The University of Silicon Valley offers students a Master of Business Innovation (formerly known as the Master of Arts in Entrepreneurship & Innovation) degree that's designed for students looking to establish their own business ventures, manage entrepreneurial enterprises, transition to new careers, or thrive through innovation within their current place of work. The program consists of 30 semester credits, with all cohort courses available entirely online. The practicum course requires students to apply their new skills to their own start-up ventures or innovative ideas. Courses will cover topics like business models and planning, entrepreneurial marketing, digital transformation, and social media. Students without a business background will be required to attend a special pre-session in the 4 weeks prior to the program's start.
Program Highlights:
Master of Business Innovation
- Credits: 30
- Length: Varies
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: WSCUC
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | WSCUC |
Students pursuing the 33-credit Master of Business Administration degree from East Texas Baptist University (ETBU) can choose from three concentrations — a traditional MBA, an MBA with an accounting specialization, or an MBA with an entrepreneurship specialization. All options are available online and can be completed in as few as 12 months. Students can choose between a fall and spring start date. The entrepreneurship specialization allows flexibility for students who desire master's level coursework that they can tailor to their entrepreneurial goals. This specialization offers three one-hour courses in which students will create their own comprehensive small business plan. Other courses include financial accounting, strategic human resource management, labor relations, managerial economics, management of social media, information systems management, and marketing planning for entrepreneurship.
Program Highlights:
Master of Business Administration -- Entrepreneurship Specialization
- Credits: 33
- Length: 12 months
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | ACCSC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | MSCHE |