For many young students in the Philippines, the dream of starting their own business begins with finding the right educational path. The University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) offers just that with its Entrepreneurial Management (EM) Program.
Recognized as one of the most trusted and effective entrepreneurship courses in the country, the EM Program provides a unique and comprehensive approach to business education, tailored for aspiring entrepreneurs who seek more than just a traditional business degree.
Let’s explore why it has been the trusted choice for many students through the years.
Comprehensive Program Structure
The EM program was originally designed for youth entrepreneurship by Dr. Bernardo M. Villegas and Mr. Fernan V. Lucban. It remains a pioneer in the field, focusing on developing young individuals with the right business skill set, mindset, and heart-set.
The EM Program’s structure comprises three key tracks: Academic, Personal Development, and New Business Venture. This approach ensures that students receive a well-rounded education, combining rigorous academic coursework with practical business training and personal development.
- Academic Track: The academic curriculum includes business subjects integrated with liberal arts education, providing students with a broad knowledge base and critical thinking skills.
- Personal Development Series: This track focuses on cultivating personal values and virtues essential for becoming an upright entrepreneur. It emphasizes the importance of personal growth alongside professional development.
- New Business Venture Track: Students receive guidance from experienced business mentors as they establish their enterprises. This hands-on approach allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, gaining invaluable experience.
Proven Effectiveness Through Research
Given the comprehensive program structure, the EM team, led by Dr. Eli Santos, Gregorio Mabbagu, and Erica Yap, investigated the relationships between key program variables and their impact on new business performance. With over 20 years of experience in producing successful entrepreneurs, it was timely to examine the critical factors that contribute to shaping young entrepreneurs.
Titled “The Impact of Entrepreneurial Education on New Business Performance: Case of a Pioneering Entrepreneurial Management Program in the Philippines,” the study was presented at the 1st International Conference on Entrepreneurship and SME Development at the University of the Philippines, Diliman, in November 2023.
This study leveraged advanced statistical analysis techniques, including Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), to assess the academic performance and New Business Venture (NBV) success of EM students and alumni. In addition, responses from the Personal Entrepreneurial Competencies (PEC) survey were analyzed.
The findings revealed that academic performance significantly enhances NBV success, underscoring the crucial role of mentoring frequency and quality. The PEC survey demonstrated the steady progression of students throughout the course, with scores above the median in entrepreneurial competencies and notable improvements in systematic planning. It also highlighted the strengths of students and alumni in information seeking and goal setting.
These findings demonstrate that the EM Program not only equips students with theoretical knowledge but also provides practical skills and valuable mentoring that are crucial for entrepreneurial success. The progression of students through the course, as shown by their high scores in entrepreneurial competencies, further validates the program’s effectiveness.
A Legacy of Excellence
Since its inception in 1989 as a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities with a special certification in Entrepreneurial Management, the EM Program has evolved to meet the changing needs of aspiring entrepreneurs. In 1998, it was elevated to a Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurial Management, reflecting its growing emphasis on comprehensive business education. The program became more inclusive in 2007 when it welcomed its first cohort of female students.
As of 2023, the program has trained over 1,200 student-entrepreneurs, with approximately 72% still actively engaged in entrepreneurship. Many graduates have pursued higher studies or taken on corporate roles while maintaining positions in their family businesses.
A Bright Future for EM Graduates
The EM Program’s success is evident in the achievements of its graduates. Through establishing a solid foundation in business education, fostering personal growth, and offering practical experience, the program prepares students to excel in the entrepreneurial world. The high entrepreneurial competency scores and significant impact on NBV performance among graduates attest to the program’s effectiveness.
UA&P’s Entrepreneurial Management Program continues to set the standard for entrepreneurial education in the Philippines. By nurturing young talent and equipping them with the necessary skills, mindset, and values, the program ensures that its graduates are well-prepared to create value in business and life.
Learn more about the EM Program. Visit https://em.uap.asia/about/ today.