University adds online masters degree in entrepreneurship

University adds online masters degree in entrepreneurship

On February 13, the University of Florida's Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation launched an online master of science in entrepreneurship program. The offering is the first online graduate degree of its kind to be initiated by an accredited university, according to the Gainesville Sun.

The degree offering, which is part of the Warrington College of Business Administration, was developed for applicants who cannot regularly attend campus-based classes. Enrolled students need to attend only six courses in-person during the program's 20 month duration.

"Breaking barriers of distance is what these programs are all about," said Dave Boneparth, the center's assistant director of academic programs. "To get great people to communicate and great minds to think about ways of changing the types of business and the ways we do business."

Although only 10 individuals are currently enrolled, Boneparth hopes that the program will soon expand to teach between 30 and 40 students.

Online education has been hailed as a cheaper and more flexible instruction option that allows adult learners such as busy parents or working professionals to earn a degree without interrupting their lives.

By Mark Danson