Self-Employment/Small Business

17-145-1 Technical Certificate
Offered at Ashland, New Richmond*, Rice Lake*, and Superior*
*Also available online at www.witc.edu

Overview

The Self-Employment/Small Business certificate is a series of customized courses designed for prospective or existing business owners, business managers, self-employed individuals, and entrepreneurs. WITC-certified business instructors and community mentors will provide relevant and innovative learning experiences. Hands-on activities in business planning, marketing, customer service, financial management, and business communications will be included. The curriculum has been specifically designed to be performance-based and project-oriented. Students will research, plan, and implement effective business concepts. Work-based learning experiences will be an integral part of this certificate.

Special Features

To maximize the use of technology and instructional flexibility, classes are accessible via online instruction. Coursework may be taken toward certificate completion or for personal interest.
To earn this certificate, you must complete 10 credits of required coursework. After completing the base certificate, additional credentials may be obtained in a specialization area such as office/accounting operations, management, or marketing.

Student Profile

As a Self-Employment/Small Business student, you should:

• Be self-employed, an owner of a small business, or have an interest in entrepreneurship
• Be interested in expanding your skills in operating a business
• Work independently
• Have basic computer skills
• Work under pressure
• Handle multiple tasks and distractions
• Understand general business practices

Preparation for Admission

The following experiences will help you prepare for this certificate:

• Computer skills
• Business Math and/or Accounting
• General business concepts
• Basic problem-solving skills
• Prior work experience
• Ability to work independently

Outcomes

After completion of the Self-Employment/Small Business certificate, you should be able to:

• Analyze business needs and opportunities.
• Identify sources and options for financing.
• Prepare a business plan.
• Evaluate cash flow principles.
• Identify and display features of an effective business operator.
• Create an all-inclusive customer service plan.
• Access eCommerce challenges and opportunities.
• Organize productive work teams.
• Incorporate business networking.
• Develop a long-term strategic marketing plan.
• Manage resources and risks to attain financial profitability.
• Apply legal and ethical principles.