You’ve decided to start a business. Congratulations! Now all you need is a plan. Let us help with that.
Madison College Campus
Business Plan
Program Number: 901453CERT
Your Degree: Certificate
Estimated Time to Complete: 9 Credits | Finish in 1 semester
Delivery Method: 100% Online
Area of Study: Business
Estimated Program Cost: $1,643.83
Use our Net Price Calculator to estimate your tuition costs.
  • Program Overview

    The Business Plan Certificate at Madison College was created with entrepreneurs in mind. It combines marketing and financial planning for small business ventures with an introduction to entrepreneurship or internship, depending on your needs. 

    Program Details

    Students in the Business Plan Certificate program attend part-time.

    Business Plan Certificate classes may be offered at these Madison College campuses:

    • Madison - Truax
  • Program Courses

    Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester. 

    Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.

    Required Courses
    10-145-102
    Small Business Development
    Provides an introduction to prospective small business owners to the principles involved in planning and operation. Attention is given to small business appraisal and opportunities. Emphasis will be placed on factors that contribute to a successful business operation.
    3 credits
    10-145-125
    Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Small Business Marketing
    This course explores how artificial intelligence can boost marketing strategies for small businesses. Learn to leverage AI tools for customer insights, targeted advertising, personalized content, and data-driven decision-making to enhance brand visibility, drive sales, and streamline marketing efforts effectively.
    3 credits
    Choose one of the following courses:
    10-145-118
    Small Business Internship
    This course requires a minimum of 144 hours of employment in an area related to the student’s future business plans. Reports and discussion in class are coordinated with student employment. Employee appraisal, evaluation and harmony on the job will also be topics of discussion.
    3 credits
    10-145-190
    Small Business Etiquette and Professionalism
    This course focuses on the core knowledge and skills that are crucial in owning a small business or exhibiting the entrepreneurial mindset. This class will examine how to effectively work with others, as well as discover how to lead a team, resolve conflict, and learn about overall etiquette in the workplace. Students will conduct an orientation/training presentation, complete a business concept pitch and develop an elevator speech.
    3 credits
    10-145-117
    Introduction to Entrepreneurship
    Dreaming of starting your own business? This course is designed to inspire and nurture the entrepreneurial spirit. Students will examine the entrepreneurial process and characteristics of successful entrepreneurs, how to identify and evaluate entrepreneurial opportunities, and the critical elements of an effective business plan -- including management, marketing, and financial data. So whether you dream of a new business, or have a plan that needs further development, this course can help you reach your goals.
    3 credits
  • How to Apply

    Earning a certificate is a great way to expand your skill set and add professionalism to your resume. Applications are always open, so apply today!

    International students who wish to apply for, maintain, or transfer their F-1 student visa status to Madison College are required to complete the International Admission Process.

    There are no admission requirements for this certificate. Simply submit your application by the deadline for each term.

    Application Dates

    Fall 2026

    • Application open
    • Application completion deadline is November 15, 2026

    Spring 2027

    • Application open
    • Application completion deadline is April 15, 2027

    Fall 2027

    • Application available on October 15, 2026
    • Application completion deadline is November 15, 2027

    Additional Notes

    Certificate programs are not eligible for financial aid.

    Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a certificate does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the certificate.

    Questions?

    Contact the Enrollment Center at enrollmentservices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.

    apply for admission

    Get Started!

    Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your Business Plan career.

    It's Free to Apply

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