Introductory description

This is an elective module designed specifically for non-WBS students. To find detailed availability and to apply for this module, log in to my.wbs.ac.uk using your normal IT login details and apply via the my.wbs module application system. Once you’ve secured a place on my.wbs you should apply via your home department’s usual process, which usually takes place via eVision. Note that you do not require the module leader’s permission to study a WBS module, so please do not contact them to request it.

The module aims to:

1. provide non-WBS students with key principles in entrepreneurship
2. give a theoretical and practical introduction to the process of developing a business idea,
3. provide students with the tools and encouragement to continue their entrepreneurship journey within the University of Warwick and beyond.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Students will develop a business for a product or service of their choice. The elements of the course will cover the aspects necessary to develop a business idea. Sessions will include:

• Opportunities
• Innovation
• Intellectual property
• Lean startup approach
• Business models
• Finding Resources
• Communication
• Business idea coaching
• Growth

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Understand and be able to apply the key principles of entrepreneurship to the development of a business idea
• Create a business idea pitch
• Criticise and question the strength of a business idea
• Demonstrate the ability to think critically about the entrepreneurial process

Indicative reading list

Barringer, B.R. and Ireland, R.D. (2010) Entrepreneurship: Successfully Launching New Venture , Harlow: Pearson
Barrow, C., Barrow, P. and Brown, R. (2015) The Business Plan Workbook: a practical guide to new venture creation and development, London : KoganPage.
Bhide, A. (1992) 'Bootstrap Finance: The Art of Start-Ups' Harvard Business Review, 70, 6, pp. 109-17
Mollick, E. (2020). The Unicorn's Shadow. Wharton School Press - this book has five chapters and is classed as essential reading.
Neck, H.M., Neck, C.P., & Murray, E. L. (2018). Entrepreneurship: The practice and mindset. Sage.
Ries, E. (2011), The Lean Startup: How Constant Innovation Creates Radically Successful Businesses, London ; New York : Portfolio Penguin
Shane, S. (2003). A general theory of entrepreneurship. Cheltenham: Edward Elgar.

Subject specific skills

Identify an entrepreneurial opportunity
Develop and iterate business model
Appraise the resources needed to support their business idea

Transferable skills

Develop written skills in business presentation and communication
Apply research skills and the ability to effectively search, gather and utilize information and knowledge