Small Business Management

Turn your small business vision into reality.

MCC’s Small Business Management Certificate is built for doers—entrepreneurs who are ready to sharpen their skills, strengthen their business foundation, and move from idea to action. Whether you’re launching a new venture, growing a family business, or leveling up an existing operation, this certificate gives you the practical tools and confidence to lead with purpose. You’ll dive into the essentials every small business owner must master: accounting that drives smart decisions, marketing that attracts customers, leadership that inspires teams, and customer service that keeps people coming back. Along the way, you’ll create a business plan that positions your company for long‑term success and competitive advantage.

AREA OF INTEREST

Business & Entrepreneurial Studies

DEPARTMENT

Business Administration

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In our Small Business certificate program, you’ll learn:

Accounting Foundations — Understand key financial concepts that support smart, sustainable business decisions.

Business Planning — Develop a complete business plan that strengthens your company’s direction and competitive edge.

Leadership & Team Building — Build the skills to motivate teams, manage people, and lead with confidence.

Marketing & Sales — Learn how to attract customers, promote your brand, and drive revenue.

Customer Service Excellence — Deliver the kind of service that builds loyalty and sets your business apart.

Vendor & Employee Management — Navigate relationships, contracts, and day‑to‑day operations with clarity and professionalism.

Build Key Skills

Customer Engagement

Financial Literacy

Management

Interested in something else? Explore by your interests

MCC’s Small Business Management program equips you with the practical skills to launch, manage, or grow a business. Whether you dream of starting your own venture, stepping into leadership at a family company, or contributing to Rochester’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, this certificate opens doors to diverse opportunities in business ownership, management, and innovation.

Career Opportunities

Entrepreneur

Small Business Owner

General Manager

Operations Manager

Business Development Specialist

Where You Could Work

Service providers — salons, repair shops, or consulting firms

Family-owned companies — leadership or operations roles

Startups — fast-paced, innovation-driven teams

Nonprofits — management and program development

Retail shops — boutiques, specialty stores, or franchises

Local Employers

Rochester Chamber of Commerce — supporting local business growth

NextCorps — startup incubator and entrepreneurial hub

Rochester Economic Development Corporation (REDCO) — small business financing and support

High Tech Rochester — accelerator programs for entrepreneurs

Local small businesses — across retail, food service, trades, and professional services

Earn your Small Business Management certificate at MCC and gain the practical tools, confidence, and business insight to turn ideas into sustainable success.

CERT

Certificate

Turn your business ideas into reality with MCC’s Small Business Management Certificate. Designed for current and aspiring entrepreneurs, this flexible program builds practical skills in accounting, marketing, management, customer service, and business planning—giving you the tools to start, grow, or strengthen a successful small business.

Length

1 year / 31-32 credit hours

Students typically complete this program in 2 semesters of full-time study.

Location

Brighton Campus & Online

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Certificate Courses & Prerequisites

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100% Online

Need a flexible schedule? This program’s coursework can be completed 100% online.

Stay on Track with a Success Coach

Your Student Success Coach will help you choose classes, plan your path, and stay on track from your first semester through graduation. They’re here to support your goals and connect you with the resources you need to succeed.

Quality Education That Fits Your Budget

MCC’s low tuition, plus financial aid like grants and scholarships, make your education possible.

Financial Aid Available Scholarships

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A.A.S.

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Business Administration

Start your business degree at MCC. Earn credits that transfer, study online or on campus, and build skills for success in any business career.

A.S.

Entrepreneurial & Applied Business Studies

Earn your Entrepreneurial and Applied Business Studies A.A.S. degree at MCC and learn to launch, manage, and grow a small business through hands‑on coursework.

A.A.S.

Online Program

Common search terms

Small Business Management

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