Overview
Social entrepreneurship is an essential field that combines entrepreneurship and social responsibility to address social and environmental challenges. The master's program in responsible social entrepreneurship at the Swedish Open University is designed to address the growing demand for professionals with expertise in social entrepreneurship and related fields. It is a specialized program designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the growing field of social entrepreneurship. It prepares students to become innovative and socially responsible entrepreneurs with a focus on social impact. The program combines business principles with a focus on social responsibility, sustainable development, and innovations, preparing students to become ethical and socially responsible entrepreneurs. It is designed for students who are interested in using business principles and practices to create a social impact and address some of the world's most pressing social and environmental challenges.
The program is taught by experienced faculty members who have expertise in social entrepreneurship and sustainable business models. The university also provides a range of support services, including academic advice, tutoring, and career services. On completion of the program, graduates will be well-equipped to pursue a range of careers in responsible social entrepreneurship, including positions such as social enterprise managers, impact investment analysts, and sustainability consultants. Graduates may also choose to pursue further education, such as a PhD in responsible social entrepreneurship or related fields.
Program Learning Outcomes and Objectives
On completion of the program, students will be able to:
• Develop and implement sustainable business plans that address social and environmental challenges.
• Understand the principles of social impact measurement and be able to evaluate the effectiveness of social entrepreneurship ventures.
• Identify and engage with key stakeholders, including investors, customers, and local communities.
• Understand the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern social entrepreneurship.
• Develop innovative solutions to social and environmental challenges and be able to pitch these ideas to potential investors and partners.
• Develop leadership and teamwork skills that enable effective collaborations with diverse stakeholders.
Program Structure
The master's program is a 1-year program that consists of 60 credits. The program is delivered online, allowing students to study at their own pace following their own schedule. The program includes the following courses:
1. Sustainable Business Models and Values (7.5)
2. Sustainable Business Perspectives (7.5)
3. Responsible Leadership (7.5)
4. Project Management (7.5)
5. Research Methods in Business (7.5)
6. Social Impact Measurement and Reporting (5)
7. Foundations of Social Entrepreneurship (7.5)
Thesis or Research Project (10)
The project is an opportunity for the students to apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world sustainability challenge faced by an organization. Students will work in teams to develop a sustainability strategy and implementation plan for a partner organization. The project will be presented to a panel of experts who will evaluate it and provide feedback.
Career Opportunities
Graduates can pursue a range of careers in social entrepreneurship, including:
• Social Entrepreneurs
• Social Business Consultants
• Corporate Social Responsibility Managers
• Social Impact Analysts
• Social Innovation Managers
Admission Requirements
To be considered for admission to the master’s program at the Swedish Open University, applicants must meet the following requirements:
• Hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
• Have a minimum GPA or equivalent of 70 percent.
• Provide evidence of proficiency in the English language.
• Submit a statement of purpose and a strong interest in the program.
• Complete an interview with the program faculty.
• Have a minimum of two years of professional work experience.
Tuition and Fees
The tuition fee for the master’s program at the Swedish Open University is 3,500 USD per semester. This does not include additional fees such as textbooks, technology fees, and other course material.
Assessment and evaluation
Student learning will be assessed using a number of methods, including exams, essays, case studies, and projects. Students will also be evaluated on their participation in online discussions and group projects. Course evaluations will be conducted at the end of each course to gather feedback from the students on the effectiveness of the course and the teaching methods used.
Graduation requirements
To graduate from the Bachelor’s Program in at Swedish Open University, students must:
• Complete all required courses and earn a minimum of 60 credits for a 1-year program.
• Maintain a minimum grade of 60 percent in each course.
• Successfully complete a master’s thesis or project.
• Meet any additional requirements set by the university.
