Business Startup Basics Certificate

Business Startup Basics

Program Number: 901452CERT

Your Degree: Certificate

Estimated Time to Complete: 18 Credits | Finish in 1 year

Delivery Method: 100% Online, Some Online/Some In Person

Area of Study: Business

Estimated Program Cost: $3,259.66

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Program Overview

Madison College's Business Startup Basics Certificate program focuses on creating marketing and financial plans for small business ventures, small business operations and customer service.
There are no prerequisite courses. Students are required to have basic computer skills.
Program Details
Students in Madison College’s Business Startup Basics Certificate program can attend full or part-time.
Business Startup Basics classes are offered at the Madison College Truax campus.
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.
First Semester
10-106-100
Mindset for Success
Designed to foster the attitudes and skills that can inspire and empower you throughout your career regardless of your chosen path. Develop and improve skills in creativity, ambition, critical thinking, innovation, opportunistic thinking, and teamwork through experiential and problem-solving approaches. Become an engaged workplace contributor and develop a workforce-ready mindset.
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
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
Second Semester
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
10-145-105
Operations Management
Small business management strategies are applied to policies and operations. Included are applications to budgeting, marketing potentials, forecasting, layout, staffing, work flow, scheduling, and general business decisions. E-commerce is also explored.
3 credits
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
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.
Get Started!
Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your Business Startup Basics career.
It's Free to Apply