What's the Secret to Success for Entrepreneurs?

You've always dreamed of working for yourself, but scary statistics about the number of start-ups that fail in their first year have kept you behind your desk, pushing paper for someone else's profit. Yet there are a number of ways to stack the deck in favor of success when you're ready to strike out on your own, starting with getting a business degree.

"Research has suggested important links between education and . . . entrepreneurial performance," according to a U.S. Small Business Administration study. Author Scott Shane, a Case Western Reserve University professor of entrepreneurial studies, also sees a strong link between education and entrepreneurial success. In his book "The Illusions of Entrepreneurship," Shane asserts that a degree increases an entrepreneur's chances of success, according to a recent report in U.S. News & World Report.

"Many new entrepreneurs think having enough start-up capital and a good idea are all that's needed for their new business to succeed," says Tom Craigson of Monster Learning, whose Web site www.BusinessSchools.com provides extensive information on business schools across the country. "While those things are certainly vital, it's also important to be prepared with the kind of knowledge that comes from a business degree."

You won't need to obtain a doctorate to succeed, either. According to Shane's research, a Ph.D. apparently doesn't increase your chances of success any more than a bachelor's or master's might. Entrepreneurial efforts can benefit from a variety of degrees, such as an MBA, accounting, business administration, business law, business communications, e-commerce and marketing, Craigson points out.

A business-related degree can provide entrepreneurs the edge in:

* Understanding markets and opportunities;
* Managing finances and investments;
* Marketing strategies and sales efforts; and
* Customer relations.

"Many schools provide distance learning programs, part-time coursework, and night and weekend classes. This kind of flexibility is particularly valuable to already busy professionals who are preparing to enter the world of entrepreneurship," says Craigson.

How do you choose the school that's best for you? An online educational directory like www.BusinessSchools.com can help you find accredited schools offering degrees in a variety of business disciplines. Search by location, subject, and degree, and then request free information from the programs that interest you.

To find a business school and degree program that will set you on the road to entrepreneurial success, visit www.BusinessSchools.com.

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