Prospective students considering a career in entrepreneurship may choose to pursue an MBA with a concentration in entrepreneurship. While no degree guarantees employment or a specific salary, students who graduate with an MBA in entrepreneurship may qualify for many exciting career opportunities in a growing field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 8% growth in top executive careers by 2026.
The information below describes some of the current options for MBA in entrepreneurship graduates and the additional credentials available to them.
What Can You Do With an Online MBA in Entrepreneurship
Students who graduate with an MBA in entrepreneurship qualify for exciting leadership positions, often working for large corporations. The following includes a few examples of careers for MBA in entrepreneurship graduates.
| Chief Executive Officer | Average Salary: $159,108 | |
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A chief executive officer (CEO) oversees the operations of an entire corporation or business venture. While job responsibilities vary depending on the specific position, a CEO generally determines the direction of the company by making final decisions in all business matters. CEOs manage higher level staff and determine overall strategic directions while connecting with investors and other business leaders. | |
| Venture Firm Partner | Average Salary: $194,784 | |
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A venture firm partner joins an investment or venture capitalist firm to help acquire and manage a certain set of investments. Professionals research leads for sourcing deals and may help manage staff. In some cases, venture firm partners continue on to become full partners of a particular corporation. | |
| Partner, Management Consulting Firm | Average Salary: $232,693 | |
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Partners in management consulting firms work with clients across a variety of industries, training them for best practices in management techniques. They provide detailed reports to their clients, with suggested solutions based on market research. Partners in management consulting firms may lead staff teams, coordinate with upper management, and secure clients for the company. | |
Sources: PayScale
Learn More About MBA Entrepreneurship Degrees, Programs, and Careers
Entrepreneurship Pay Comparison
How much you can make with an MBA in entrepreneurship versus a bachelor's in entrepreneurship depends on many variables, including where you work, how long you work, and what title you hold. The following chart illustrates the difference in median pay between bachelor's degree holders and master's degree holders in sample entrepreneurship jobs.
| Degree | Job | Average Job Salary |
|---|---|---|
| MBA | Chief Operating Officer | $141,991 |
| Bachelor's | Director of Operations | $90,768 |
Source: PayScale, 2019
What Certifications and Licenses are Needed for a Career in Entrepreneurship?
Entrepreneurs do not necessarily need to obtain licensure or credentials to excel in their chosen field, but it does help boost a professional's resume. Graduates pursuing a career in entrepreneurship might demonstrate knowledge of the field by pursuing licensure in accounting, nonprofit management, or investment brokerage.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Some employers of executive positions, such as CEOs, require applicants to be licensed CPAs. Certification demonstrates knowledge of auditing and financial management.
Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP)
Offered by the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance affiliates, a CNP credential prepares business professionals to work as effective nonprofit CEOs, program managers, development coordinators, and finance officers.
Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) licensure
Many venture capitalists begin their careers as investment brokers, which means they must obtain FINRA licensure in order to trade. FINRA licensure requires registration with the organization and the completion of a series of qualifying exams.