The Peter Coates MSc in Entrepreneurship is a unique programme. Stimulated and inspired by the relationship between the Peter Coates Foundation and Staffordshire University, the Peter Coates MSc in Entrepreneurship gives you the opportunity to develop a start-up idea into a sustainable, scalable and investable business.
The programme has been designed by entrepreneurs, for entrepreneurs and has been developed in association with the Peter Coates Foundation. The Peter Coates Foundation is providing full bursaries for those eligible - applicants must apply separately to the Foundation to access that funding.
Furthermore, at the culmination of the course, individuals or teams of graduates will be able to pitch for either a £20,000 growth grant – designed to support smaller businesses – or up to £200,000 equity investment in their business idea. Successful individuals and teams will also get the opportunity for ongoing mentoring and start-up support, as part of the Peter Coates Fast Forward programme*.
* Note the Peter Coates Foundation is responsible for the Peter Coates Fast Forward Programme including the allocation of bursaries and potential investments, independent of Staffordshire University and the Peter Coates MSc in Entrepreneurship.
The MSc combines leading edge simulation-based teaching with the entrepreneurial spirit. This isn’t business taught out of a textbook, it’s business building from day one. You don't need to have a business idea, or even know what industry you need to work in - this can be developed over the duration of the course. Or, if you do have an existing business idea or start-up, this could be the ideal environment to develop your ideas and realise your ambitions.
The course is designed to support you through your entrepreneurial journey. From understanding who you are, where your passions lie and how you might grow, to pitch decks, basic design skills and agile methodology that encourages you to fail fast.
Community and access to the startup ecosystem both regionally and across the UK are core pillars in the program. You’ll have access to your own dedicated startup space with cutting edge technical facilities and the course is filled with guest lecturers and teaching by entrepreneurs who’ve been there and done it.
Every module is practical and experiential. There isn’t a line between your course and your startup, you will work on your startup in every touch point with the University. Creating your own venture is at the heart of what this Masters is all about and the course is designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, experience and networks to enable you to build your own business as you learn.
On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: MSc Entrepreneurship (Peter Coates)
Work placements
During the final semester of the MSc Entrepreneurship you will complete The Entrepreneurship Internship, which will entail developing your own venture, undertaking a placement in a start-up business or completing a project exploring potential opportunities in new markets. You will be able to choose the most suitable option depending on where you are on your entrepreneurship journey.
The location of your placement/internship will depend on what sector you choose to work in and which business you would like to placed in. We have extensive links with a wide variety of businesses, but, as part of the course you will also be developing your own professional networks. Therefore, the location of your placement/internship is flexible and not pre-prescribed.