Bachelor of Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management (BESBM)
Introduction
The Bachelor of Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management (BESBM) programme was developed by Makerere University Business School (MUBS) to address the growing need for entrepreneurial skills and sustainable small business development in Uganda and beyond. Many businesses in the country struggle with survival and growth due to limited managerial, financial, and innovative capacity. This programme aims to produce graduates with the competencies, creativity, and mindset necessary to initiate, manage, and expand successful enterprises that contribute to economic transformation and job creation.
Admission Requirements
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Admission into the first year is through any of the following avenues:
- Direct Entry: Candidates must have at least two (2) principal passes obtained at the same sitting of UACE and five (5) passes at UCE or its equivalent.
- Diploma Holders Scheme: Candidates must possess a relevant diploma from a recognized institution.
- Professional Qualifications: Applicants with recognized professional credentials in business or entrepreneurship-related fields are eligible for admission.
- Mature Age Scheme: Candidates must have passed the Makerere University mature age entry examinations or an equivalent.
Program Details
- Duration: Three (3) years
- Mode of Study: Day, Evening, and Weekend
- Campus: Makerere University Business School (MUBS) – Nakawa
- Award: Bachelor of Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management (BESBM)
- Teaching Approach: The programme combines theory with practice through lectures, seminars, case studies, field projects, business simulations, and mentorship sessions. Learners are encouraged to develop business ideas and implement them during the course of study to enhance practical experience.
Expected Learning Outcomes / Career Prospects
Graduates of this programme will be able to:
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Identify and evaluate business opportunities for enterprise creation and growth.
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Apply entrepreneurial and management principles to real-world business challenges.
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Demonstrate innovation, leadership, and strategic planning in business operations.
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Manage small and medium enterprises (SMEs) effectively for sustainability.
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Promote entrepreneurship as a tool for job creation and community development.
Career Opportunities:
Graduates can pursue careers as Entrepreneurs, Business Development Officers, SME Managers, Innovation and Project Managers, Enterprise Consultants, and Business Advisors in both the private and public sectors. They are also well-prepared for self-employment and social entrepreneurship initiatives.
Fees Structure
| Fees Structure | |||
| Description | Semester One | Semester Two | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition fees | 1,360,000 | 1,360,000 | |
| Functional fees | |||
| Registration fees | 130,000 | ||
| Examination fees | 130,000 | ||
| Medical/Examination fees | 113,000 | ||
| Computer/Library/Research fees | 117,000 | ||
| Identity Card | 45,000 | ||
| Guild/Sports fees | 33,000 | ||
| Rules & Caution | 3000 | ||
| Development fees | 170,000 | ||
| Internship | 120,000 | 120,000 | |
| Endowment Fund | 13,000 | ||
| Subtotal | 874,000 | ||
| Total per Semester | 2,234,4000 | 1,480,000 | |
| Annual fees | 3,714,000 | ||
Target Group
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The programme targets:
- Senior Six (S.6) leavers aspiring to build a career in entrepreneurship or business management.
- Holders of relevant diplomas seeking to advance their academic and professional qualifications.
- Individuals already managing small and medium enterprises who wish to enhance their business and leadership skills.
- Professionals from various disciplines interested in starting or growing their own businesses.
- Government and NGO officers involved in enterprise development and community business support initiatives.
