BSc Business Enterprise by Nigel Adams BA (Hons) FCIM Programme Director

The University of Buckingham Independent - opened in 1976 and awarded a Royal Charter in 1983. Voted No 1 for student satisfaction in National Student Survey (x6). 16th in the Guardian Newspaper University Guide 2013. “Oxbridge” style teaching in small groups. Excellent student staff ratio (1:9). One of the highest IT spends per head of any UK university.

BSc (Hons) Business Enterprise The programme interests undergraduates who: Want to set up and develop their own business at the same time as they study for an honours degree. Plan to make a positive contribution to a family business or small company. Have flair, creativity & an entrepreneurial or “can-do” approach to business, which will be vital when working for any businesses in the future.

Buckingham’s Approach Marketing Nigel Adams Buckingham’s Approach BSc Business Enterprise programme conceived by Dean of Buckingham Business School in 2004/5. The Dean was previously at Babson College in USA - well known for Entrepreneurship. Undergraduate, not a post-graduate degree. No similar programme was offered in UK in 2005. Now there are two other similar programmes (Coventry & Huddersfield) Buckingham’s small size and approach enabled the programme to obtain approval. It was launched in January 2006. 5 cohorts of students have completed this programme. 4 4

“Seed-corn” Capital & Other Support All BBE students “pitch” for up to £5000 “seed-corn” capital to start and run their businesses. Funding was originally provided by Legal & General and Mr John Desborough (a private donor). When the BBE businesses are running, they operate from “Buckingham Enterprise Hub”. External business people and entrepreneurs mentor and support the students throughout the programme. 5

What has been positive? Personal development of the BBE students. Positive reaction to the programme from a wide range of people, though not all teachers approve. Support of colleagues throughout the university. Widening participation in higher education. Involvement with the business community. Successful employment or continuation of BBE graduates. 6

What problems have we had? Time taken & cost of promoting the programme. Finding and attracting appropriate students. Attracting students who will develop innovative technology. Student workload & drop-out rate. Timing & success of courses during programme. Costs and time involved with administration of students’ companies (Companies House & HMRC) 7

What have we learned? We found that students preparing a business plan and a “pitch” presentation in the first semester was successful. A theoretical approach to innovation & entrepreneurship did 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 the early part of programme. Courses taught must include: Selling and Risks in Business. A “light” touch is needed when mentoring, don’t say no! 8