University of Groningen

MSc in Business Administration: Small Business and Entrepreneurship

How can small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurial firms be managed so they can be successful in the entrepreneurial economy and add value to society?

Small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) comprise over 95% of businesses in many countries. SMEs are renowned for their entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurial activities allow firms to remain competitive, they can create economic growth and innovation and can solve societal problems.

You learn to understand the role SMEs and entrepreneurial firms are playing in the modern entrepreneurial economy, more importantly, the strategic and managerial challenges small business owners and entrepreneurs face. Many management programmes focus on large businesses, whereas SMEs and entrepreneurial firms have specific characteristics. You will learn about them and how small business owners and entrepreneurs can effectively manage their businesses in an increasingly complex business environment.

You will link the specific theories on SMEs and entrepreneurship to practice by means of assignments and guest lectures. The programme has an international group of enthusiastic, highly-reputed lecturers with research experience and contacts in the professional field. Besides, the relatively small group of students (about 50 each year) results in a personal approach with possibilities for customization.

Why study this programme in Groningen?

• More than 95% of the business community consists of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Yet most management programmes focus on large businesses. In the MSc SB&E, you learn more about the management of SMEs, the entrepreneurial economy and the challenges entrepreneurs are facing.
• The programme has been internationally accredited by the AACSB and EQUIS, ensuring a high-quality education, which only 1% of universities reach worldwide.