What Degree Should I Get to Become an Entrepreneur for 2025?

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Many aspiring business people wonder if they need a degree to become an entrepreneur and, if so, which one to choose. While some business leaders have built companies without formal education, many successful entrepreneurs have used college degrees to gain essential skills, industry knowledge, and networking opportunities.

With 6.1 million employer firms in the U.S.—99.7% of them small businesses—entrepreneurs play a crucial role in the economy. This article, prepared by experts in career planning, explores the best degrees for aspiring business owners, alternative education paths, and key skills for success, helping readers make informed decisions about their entrepreneurial journey.

Key Things You Should Know About Entrepreneurs Getting a Degree

Most Entrepreneurs Have a Degree – While a degree to become an entrepreneur is not mandatory, 62% of entrepreneurs hold a bachelor's degree, highlighting its role in providing business knowledge and industry expertise.
MBA Startups Have Higher Survival Rates – Startups founded by MBA graduates have a higher chance of surviving beyond three years, compared to the average startup’s 10-40% survival rate.
Networking in College Boosts Success – Building relationships in college through peers, professors, and alumni enhances business opportunities, funding access, and mentorship, which significantly increases entrepreneurial success.
Funding Trends Favor Business & Tech Degrees – Investors prefer entrepreneurs with backgrounds in business, finance, or technology, with total startup funding reaching $10.1 billion across 416 deals in 2024.
Job Market Skills Are Rapidly Changing – By 2030, 39% of key job skills will evolve, emphasizing the need for continuous learning, adaptability, and upskilling for long-term entrepreneurial success.

What is the best degree for becoming an entrepreneur in 2025?
Is a business degree worth it for entrepreneurs?
Can a non-business degree help you become an entrepreneur?
What are the most valuable skills for entrepreneurs?
Should you get a degree or start a business right away?
Can online business administration degrees offer a cost-effective alternative for entrepreneurs?
Can advanced finance education accelerate entrepreneurial success?
Is a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) Worth Pursuing for Entrepreneurs?
Can an accelerated online program sharpen entrepreneurial acumen?
How do networking and mentorship in college help entrepreneurs?
Is an online bachelor's degree in finance a strategic asset for entrepreneurs?
How much does your degree choice affect funding opportunities?
What are the best alternative education paths for entrepreneurs?
How do international entrepreneurs approach education differently?
How can an executive MBA enhance entrepreneurial growth?
Other Things You Should Know about Entrepreneurs Getting a Degree

What is the best degree for becoming an entrepreneur in 2025?

Many students choose business administration as a degree to become an entrepreneur because it covers management, finance, and marketing—key areas for running a company. However, other degrees can also be valuable, depending on the industry and skills needed.

Business and management degrees

Business administration – This degree provides a broad understanding of business operations, leadership, and financial management. It is ideal for those who want to start and scale a company in any industry.
Entrepreneurship – A specialized degree that focuses on innovation, business planning, and startup growth. It is best for those who want to launch and manage their own business rather than work in corporate settings.
Finance – Entrepreneurs need to manage cash flow, secure funding, and make investment decisions. A finance degree is useful for those who want to build businesses with complex financial structures or raise capital.

Industry-specific degrees

Computer science – Ideal for tech aspirants looking for a degree to become an entrepreneur to develop software, apps, or AI-driven businesses. This degree teaches programming, data management, and cybersecurity.
Engineering – Engineers often turn inventions into businesses. This degree is useful for those creating products in fields like manufacturing, robotics, or energy.
Health sciences – Entrepreneurs in healthcare, biotechnology, or wellness industries benefit from knowledge in medical research, patient care, and healthcare policies.

Marketing and creative degrees

Marketing – This degree to become an entrepreneur helps you focus on branding, digital marketing, and consumer behavior. This degree helps in launching and promoting products effectively.
Graphic design – Entrepreneurs in branding, advertising, or digital media need design skills to create compelling visuals for their businesses.

Social and strategic degrees

Economics – Helps entrepreneurs understand market trends, consumer behavior, and business cycles. This is useful for data-driven decision-making and strategic planning.
Psychology – Understanding human behavior is key to sales, marketing, and leadership. This degree helps entrepreneurs improve customer engagement and team management.

Keep in mind, the best degree to become an entrepreneur is one that builds business knowledge, problem-solving skills, and industry expertise. According to Zippia, 62% of entrepreneurs hold a bachelor’s degree. While formal education isn’t required to start a business, many entrepreneurs use their degrees to gain industry experience, credibility, and useful connections—similar to how professionals assess their educational path when deciding how to become a neurologist.

Is a business degree worth it for entrepreneurs?

A business degree is worth it for entrepreneurs who want structured learning, networking opportunities, and industry insights. It provides knowledge in finance, marketing, and operations, which are essential for running a successful business. Entrepreneurs with a business degree can launch startups, manage existing businesses, or work in leadership roles before starting their ventures.

Hands-on experience is valuable, but a business degree helps entrepreneurs avoid costly mistakes by teaching best practices. It also provides access to mentors, case studies, and startup incubators that are hard to find outside of college. According to the Financial Times, MBA startups have a higher survival rate after three years compared to the average startup, which only has a 10-40% chance of lasting that long.

Some business skills are best learned in college, such as financial modeling, data analysis, and strategic planning. These technical skills give entrepreneurs an advantage when making data-driven decisions. Programs like an AACSB online MBA offer a flexible way to gain this expertise while continuing to work on business ventures.

Can a non-business degree help you become an entrepreneur?

Yes, a non-business degree to become an entrepreneur can help you grasp industry-specific knowledge, technical skills, and creative problem-solving abilities. Many successful entrepreneurs have backgrounds in science, technology, humanities, or the arts.

STEM Degrees Build Problem-Solving Skills

STEM degrees, such as engineering and computer science, equip entrepreneurs with problem-solving and technical skills. These degrees are valuable for launching tech startups, developing innovative products, and managing data-driven businesses.

Liberal Arts Degrees Enhance Business Strategy

Degrees in economics, communications, and political science help entrepreneurs understand market trends, consumer behavior, and negotiation strategies. These skills are useful for networking, branding, and business development.

A Psychology Degree Strengthens Leadership

A psychology degree helps entrepreneurs understand human behavior, motivation, and decision-making. These insights improve leadership, team management, and customer engagement strategies.

Tech Degrees Drive Digital Entrepreneurship

In today’s digital economy, degrees in information systems and cybersecurity are valuable for launching and securing online businesses. Entrepreneurs who want to strengthen their technical and business knowledge may benefit from an online MBA information systems program, which combines IT expertise with business strategy.

Creativity Degrees Boost Branding and Marketing

Degrees in graphic design, media studies, and fine arts are useful for branding, content creation, and product design. These skills help entrepreneurs build strong visual identities and engaging marketing campaigns. Those interested in enhancing their creative skills can explore online degrees in creative writing, which provide a structured approach to storytelling, content development, and brand messaging.

Entrepreneurs need a mix of technical, financial, and leadership skills to succeed. As the business landscape evolves, continuous learning and upskilling are essential. By 2030, 39% of key job market skills are expected to change, making adaptability a crucial trait.

What are the most valuable skills for entrepreneurs?

Entrepreneurs need a mix of business, leadership, and technical skills to succeed. With 39% of key job market skills expected to change by 2030, continuous learning and adaptability are essential.

Financial management – Understanding cash flow, budgeting, and investments helps entrepreneurs make smart financial decisions.
Marketing and sales – Knowing how to attract and retain customers through digital marketing, branding, and negotiation is crucial.
Problem-solving – Entrepreneurs must think critically and find creative solutions to business challenges.
Networking and communication – Building relationships with investors, customers, and partners strengthens business opportunities.
Adaptability – The business world changes fast, so being able to pivot and embrace new trends is a major advantage.
Leadership and team management – Entrepreneurs must inspire and guide employees, set a vision, and create a positive work culture. Pursuing an online master’s in management and leadership can help develop essential leadership skills.
Time management – Running a business requires balancing multiple tasks efficiently.
Technical skills – Depending on the industry, coding, data analytics, or product development can be useful.

Should you get a degree or start a business right away?

Getting a degree before starting a business can provide essential skills, industry knowledge, and valuable connections. While some entrepreneurs succeed without formal education, most business leaders have a college degree. Among Fortune 500 CEOs, only 5.8% had no college education at all, highlighting the role of higher education in business success.

A degree helps entrepreneurs understand finance, marketing, and management, reducing costly mistakes. College also offers networking opportunities with professors, mentors, and potential business partners—as seen in the structure of top ranked online master’s in communication disorders programs that emphasize both academic and practical preparation.

However, some industries prioritize hands-on experience over formal education. If you have a strong business idea, market knowledge, and access to funding, launching a business right away may be an option.

Ultimately, the decision depends on your goals, resources, and risk tolerance. Many entrepreneurs choose a hybrid path—pursuing a degree while working on their business to gain both education and experience.

Can online business administration degrees offer a cost-effective alternative for entrepreneurs?

Online programs in business administration provide a flexible and affordable educational option that can complement entrepreneurial ambitions. These programs frequently blend theoretical foundations with practical applications, allowing entrepreneurs to continue growing their ventures while acquiring essential skills. In many cases, online degrees reduce overall costs and time commitments compared to traditional on-campus options. For instance, prospectives can explore options like the cheapest online business administration degree to balance quality education with cost efficiency. Evaluating program accreditation, curriculum relevance, and networking opportunities remains crucial to ensure the educational investment translates into long-term business success.

Can advanced finance education accelerate entrepreneurial success?

Advanced finance education can provide entrepreneurs with the analytical rigor necessary to navigate complex market dynamics and optimize funding strategies. Specialized coursework in financial analysis, risk management, and investment strategies equips founders with the tools to anticipate market trends and make informed decisions. By integrating theoretical insights with practical applications, some entrepreneurs further enhance their tactical approaches through finance masters programs online, which offer flexible, industry-focused curricula that support rapid decision-making and sustainable business growth.

Is a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) Worth Pursuing for Entrepreneurs?

Advanced doctoral programs, particularly a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA), provide a research-driven approach that deepens strategic insight and analytical rigor. These programs emphasize the application of evidence-based management and advanced market analysis, enabling entrepreneurs to innovate and refine operational models for sustainable competitive advantage. They offer a structured framework to critically assess industry trends, optimize decision-making processes, and build credibility with investors and stakeholders. Affordable options, such as cheap online DBA programs, further democratize access to high-level business education without incurring prohibitive costs.

Can an accelerated online program sharpen entrepreneurial acumen?

Short-term, intensive programs can offer targeted skill development and flexibility, complementing traditional education. These courses deliver a concentrated curriculum covering essential business strategies, leadership techniques, and innovative methodologies. With practical case studies and interactive modules, entrepreneurs can rapidly acquire actionable insights that align with the dynamic business landscape. This model integrates focused mentorship and networking opportunities into its framework, ensuring that participants immediately apply their learnings to real-world challenges. For example, pursuing an online MBA one year program can enhance one's strategic vision and operational skills in a condensed timeframe.

How do networking and mentorship in college help entrepreneurs?

Networking and mentorship in college give aspiring entrepreneurs access to valuable connections, guidance, and opportunities that can help launch and grow their businesses. Building relationships early can provide long-term benefits in the business world.

Networking with peers – Connecting with classmates can lead to future partnerships, co-founders, or early customers. Business schools and an
Learning from professors and alumni – Professors offer industry insights, while alumni can provide mentorship, funding opportunities, or job referrals.
Joining business clubs and organizations – Student-run business groups, pitch competitions, and incubators help students develop ideas, gain feedback, and refine their business models.
Finding a mentor – Having a mentor significantly increases an entrepreneur’s chances of success by offering guidance, support, and connections.

College provides a unique environment where entrepreneurs can build relationships that support their growth long after graduation.

Is an online bachelor's degree in finance a strategic asset for entrepreneurs?

An online bachelor's degree in finance delivers focused training in financial analysis, risk management, and investment strategies that empowers entrepreneurs to make data-driven decisions. This program equips business founders with the tools to optimize cash flow, forecast market trends, and develop robust financial models—essential for sustaining and scaling operations. Flexible and contemporary, such online education provides direct exposure to digital finance tools and expert insights, enabling a swift adaptation to evolving economic landscapes. For further details on program options, explore our article about an online bachelor's degree finance program.

How much does your degree choice affect funding opportunities?

Your degree choice can influence your ability to secure funding, especially from investors and lenders who value business knowledge and industry expertise. Certain degrees provide skills and credibility that make entrepreneurs more attractive to financial backers.

Investors and venture capital firms often favor entrepreneurs with backgrounds in business, finance, or technology. These fields align with high-growth industries where funding is more readily available. In 2024, total funding reached $10.1 billion across 416 deals—an 8.3% increase year-over-year despite a monthly decline. This trend highlights how industries with strong financial backing continue to attract investment.

Degrees in STEM, business, or finance can improve funding chances, but other degrees can also be valuable. For example, an accelerated communications degree can help entrepreneurs master branding, marketing, and investor relations—key elements in securing funding.

Ultimately, while a degree is not a requirement for funding, it can provide the knowledge and credibility needed to build investor confidence and increase funding opportunities.

What are the best alternative education paths for entrepreneurs?

Entrepreneurs who prefer a non-traditional route can gain valuable skills through online courses, bootcamps, apprenticeships, and other alternative education paths. These options provide flexibility, hands-on experience, and cost savings compared to traditional degrees.

Online courses and bootcamps – Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and edX offer entrepreneurship courses that cover business strategy, marketing, and finance. Bootcamps in coding, digital marketing, and business analytics can also provide specialized skills.
Books on entrepreneurship – Reading books like The Lean Startup by Eric Ries or Zero to One by Peter Thiel can help aspiring business owners understand market strategies and innovation.
Apprenticeships and internships – Working under experienced entrepreneurs provides hands-on learning that a classroom may not offer. Many successful entrepreneurs credit mentorship and real-world experience over formal education.
Accelerator programs – Startup accelerators like Y Combinator and Techstars offer mentorship, funding opportunities, and networking, often in a condensed time frame compared to a degree program.
Free or low-cost resources – Websites like MIT OpenCourseWare, Khan Academy, and government-funded small business development centers provide valuable business education at no cost.

These paths allow entrepreneurs to build skills, gain experience, and launch businesses without committing to a traditional four-year degree. But take note that even counselors can be entrepreneurs. You might wonder what does an LMFT do that you can turn into a business, for instance. Your consultancy work in itself can be your product or service.

How do international entrepreneurs approach education differently?

Entrepreneurs around the world take different paths when it comes to education. While some rely on formal degrees, others focus on practical experience, mentorship, or government-supported training programs.

In countries with strong startup ecosystems, education often aligns with industry needs. For example, Switzerland, the UK, Hong Kong, and Singapore have high startup success rates—ranging from 30% to 35%—and emphasize business-friendly policies, innovation hubs, and specialized entrepreneurship programs. Meanwhile, Germany and Estonia, with a 25% success rate, prioritize technical education and engineering degrees for startup founders.

Studying entrepreneurship abroad can also provide valuable global perspectives. Countries like the U.S., Canada, and Singapore offer top business schools and networking opportunities, though the U.S. has a lower-than-expected startup success rate of 20%.

Economic conditions and cultural attitudes shape how entrepreneurs approach education. In some regions, hands-on apprenticeships and family-run businesses take priority over formal degrees, while in others, earning an MBA or specialized degree is seen as essential for credibility.

share of small businesses in job creation

How can an executive MBA enhance entrepreneurial growth?

An executive MBA equips seasoned entrepreneurs with advanced strategic insights and adaptive leadership skills that are critical for scaling operations in dynamic markets. This program emphasizes real-world application through complex case studies and strategic decision-making frameworks that sharpen analytical and competitive skills. Furthermore, the learning environment often fosters high-level networking, providing unique opportunities to collaborate with senior professionals across diverse industries. Entrepreneurs who pursue an executive MBA benefit from flexible course structures that accommodate ongoing business commitments, ensuring that the educational investment translates into actionable business strategies. For more information on accommodating options, explore the best affordable executive MBA available online.

Here’s What Entrepreneurs Think About Getting a Degree

Earning my bachelor’s degree gave me the confidence and business knowledge I needed to launch my first company. Understanding financial management and marketing strategies from the start saved me from costly mistakes. The networking opportunities in college also introduced me to my first investors and business partners. – Sylvia

Studying entrepreneurship at the undergraduate level helped me develop the problem-solving skills essential for running a business. Learning from experienced professors and working on real-world case studies gave me a strong foundation that I still use today. College also taught me the discipline to manage both risks and opportunities wisely. – Jamieson

My bachelor’s degree wasn’t just about academics—it was about learning how to think strategically and adapt to challenges. The structured environment helped me develop leadership skills, and the connections I made through internships and alumni networks opened doors I never imagined. Looking back, I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything. – Anthony

Other Things You Should Know about Entrepreneurs Getting a Degree

Does an MBA help you start a business?

Yes, an MBA can help you start a business by providing essential skills in finance, marketing, and leadership. Many programs offer courses focused on entrepreneurship, giving students practical knowledge on funding, scaling, and managing a company. Business school also provides access to a strong network of mentors, investors, and fellow entrepreneurs. While not required for success, an MBA can reduce trial-and-error mistakes and improve long-term business strategy.

Do entrepreneurs need coding or tech skills?

Entrepreneurs don’t necessarily need coding or tech skills, but having them can be a major advantage. Understanding technology helps in building digital products, managing software teams, and making informed decisions about web development or cybersecurity. For tech startups, basic coding knowledge can reduce costs and improve communication with developers. Even in non-tech industries, digital skills like data analytics or automation can boost efficiency and competitiveness. Entrepreneurs who lack these skills can still succeed by hiring the right talent or taking online courses to learn the basics.

How do student entrepreneurs balance college and business?

Student entrepreneurs balance college and business by managing their time effectively and setting clear priorities. Many take advantage of flexible class schedules, online courses, and university resources like incubators and mentorship programs. Delegating tasks, using productivity tools, and focusing on high-impact activities help them stay on track. Some integrate their business projects into coursework or internships to gain academic credit while growing their venture. Staying disciplined and seeking support from professors and peers also make it easier to juggle both responsibilities.

What are the best ways to find co-founders in college?

The best ways to find co-founders in college include networking through business clubs, startup competitions, and entrepreneurship programs. Attending hackathons, industry events, and pitch nights can connect you with like-minded peers who share your vision. Collaborating on class projects or joining student organizations related to your business idea can also help you meet potential partners. Many universities have startup incubators and mentorship programs where students can connect with aspiring entrepreneurs. Building relationships early and finding someone with complementary skills increases the chances of a strong co-founding team.