Catalog 2026–2027

Entrepreneurship Certificate

Program Contact: Kawelina Cruz, College of Business and Economics Program Specialist
Email: kawelina@hawaii.edu

Certificate Description:

The Subject Certificate in Entrepreneurship provides students with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives needed to transform ideas into successful ventures. Designed for students from all academic backgrounds, this certificate introduces the fundamentals of accounting, marketing, and new venture creation. Through coursework drawn from the Bachelor of Business Administration program, students learn how to evaluate business opportunities, design sustainable business models, and understand the financial and economic considerations necessary to launch and manage a new enterprise. The program emphasizes critical thinking, problem solving, and adaptability—skills that are valuable not only for starting a business, but also for success in any chosen career path.

This certificate is appropriate for students in any major who want to explore entrepreneurship as a complement to their field of study, students who plan to start their own business in the future, and individuals who have already earned a bachelor’s degree and wish to gain a foundation in entrepreneurship. At least 50% of the coursework for the certificate must be completed at UH Hilo. All required courses are part of the Bachelor of Business Administration curriculum and are offered on a regular basis.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of this certificate, students will be able to:

  1. Navigate the internal and external environment of businesses
  2. Understand the fundamental knowledge necessary for new venture creation
  3. Design and develop a business plan
  4. Apply entrepreneurial thinking to solve business problems

Curriculum (15 Credits)

  • ECON 130 Intro To Microeconomics (3)
  • ACC 201 Intro to Financial Accounting (3)
  • BUS 290 Critical Thinking (3)
  • MKT 310 Princ of Marketing (3)
  • MGT 425 Bus Planning for New Ventures (3)

Notes:

  1. At least 50% of courses for the certificate must be taken at UH Hilo
  2. Current BBA majors in both Accounting and General Business are also allowed to earn this certificate.