International Enterprise Promotion Convention Harrogate November 2009 Topic A – Advancing entrepreneurship education and training A3 – Enterprise education methods and experiential learning Case Studies A review of the BSc Business Enterprise Programme at the University of Buckingham By Nigel Adams – Programme Director University of Buckingham Business School

The University of Buckingham The UK University that must be entrepreneurial to prosper Finding the appropriate type of students for the programme Design of the BSc Business Enterprise (BBE) programme Maintaining academic rigour, but also using mentors What have we learned from running the programme? Examples of BBE students’ businesses Success of BBE graduates and their testimonials Questions, comments and discussion.

The University of Buckingham Opened in 1976 and awarded a Royal Charter in 1983 Voted No 1 for student satisfaction in the National Student Survey for last 4 years “Oxbridge” style teaching in small groups Excellent student staff ratio (1:10) A 3-year Honours degree in just 2 years (8 terms) Not the “Rich Kids” university

How does the 2-year degree work?

This programme interests students who want: To set up and develop their own business, at the same time as they study for an honours degree. To make a positive contribution to a family business or small company, following graduation. To develop an entrepreneurial approach to business, which will be vital in large businesses in the future.

What students need to join BBE: 3 x Grade B’s at A level. A desire to run their own business, with tenacity and determination to succeed. Show they have enjoyed taking part in a Young Enterprise programme. An example of a business they have developed or an idea for a new business.

BSc Business Enterprise Year 1 - First Semester

BSc Business Enterprise Year 1 - Second Semester

BSc Business Enterprise Year 2 - First Semester

BSc Business Enterprise Year 2 - Second Semester

Maintaining academic rigour, but use mentors All BBE courses are taught at the same level as the Business School’s other business degree courses 7.5 unit courses are used, so that all the important subjects can be covered with the more practical work External entrepreneurs have replaced academics for the two “Innovation and Entrepreneurship” courses. External business people and entrepreneurs mentor the students throughout the programme.

Innovation and Entrepreneurship Visiting EntrepreneurBackground Information Mike Skidmorehttp:// Victoria Lennoxhttp:// Robert TomkinsonBusiness man and accountant Alex Pratthttp:// Peter Lewishttp:// Sophia Bergqvisthttp:// Mike Clarehttp:// Dr Spinder Dhaliwalhttp:// Mike Southonhttp:// Alex JohnsAlumnus from Buckingham Business School ( ) Penny Powerhttp://

What have we learned from BBE? We have found that students preparing a business plan and a “pitch” presentation in the first semester has been successful. A theoretical approach to innovation & entrepreneurship does not result in the achievement of the learning outcomes required. Quantitative Methods, plus the need to improve English language and presentation skills are vital in early part of programme. A broad range of subjects is required to cover all the topics that students will need for their businesses & academic qualifications. A “light” touch is needed when mentoring, don’t say no!

Examples of students’ businesses: Andre Roberts-Idigi Frame Media Ltd Sebastian Musil &-Podnik Ltd Alec Greenwellhttp://

Questions, comments and discussion Finding, attracting & selecting appropriate students Workload & student drop-out rate Timing & success of courses during the programme Involvement with the business community Widening participation in higher education Reaction of others in the university Graduates buying-out their businesses Graduates starting other businesses Success in graduate employment

For further information & discussions: I will be here after until tomorrow or please look at: or become a BSc Business Enterprise Fan on Facebook or call on or UK’s TOP UNIVERSITY FOR STUDENT SATISFACTION FOR FOURTH YEAR IN A ROW! AND A ‘TOP 20’ BUSINESS SCHOOL