Developing an Impactful Business Model, 2 ECTS
On this course, you learn how to build a business model that creates value and takes sustainability into account. Topics include:
- ideation tools and approaches
- foundations of business models
- understanding value creation
- market analysis and validation
- sustainability and impact in business models
- revenue models and financial viability
- iterative design and business model innovation
- communicating your business model
After completing the course, you will
- analyse the key components of a triple layered business model
- understand how value proposition, customer segments, revenue streams and cost structure work together to create sustainable value
- apply sustainability principles to business model design by considering environmental, social and economic perspectives
- evaluate market opportunities and customer needs to validate business ideas
- create and develop a business model using established frameworks and feedback
- present a clear and coherent business model pitch to different audiences
Mode of study: online course, independent study (54 hours)
Assessment: pass/fail
Completion methods: assignments given by the teacher
Learning materials: online materials
Language: English
Commercializing One’s Knowhow, 2 ECTS
Content
On this course, you explore academic entrepreneurship and assess your own strengths, skills and career opportunities. Topics include:
- the core features of academic entrepreneurship
- entrepreneurship and future working life skills from the perspective of your characteristics, know-how and values
- evaluating your own characteristics, values, knowledge and skills with different methods
- identifying future career opportunities
- commercialising your know-how
After completing the course, you will
- understand the opportunities and barriers related to entrepreneurship
- assess your own characteristics, knowledge and know-how using different evaluation methods
- identify markets where your strengths and skills could be in demand, both from the perspective of entrepreneurship and employment
Mode of study: independent online course
Completion methods: independent study and assignments (total 54 hours)
Assessment: pass/fail
Learning materials: materials provided by the teacher; check the course implementation details for up-to-date information
Languages of instruction: English and Finnish
Entrepreneurial Mindset, 2 ECTS
Content
On this course, you develop an entrepreneurial way of thinking and explore different forms of entrepreneurship. Topics include:
- entrepreneurial mindset
- effectuation
- different ways of entrepreneurship
- Business Model Canvas, especially resources and partnerships
After completing the course, you will
- think more creatively and innovatively
- recognise and seize business opportunities
- strengthen your proactive, resourceful and adaptable way of working in changing situations
- identify forms of entrepreneurship that suit you
This course also helps you develop your generic competences in:
- mental flexibility
- self-awareness and self-management
- entrepreneurship
Mode of study: independent study
Teaching method: independent online course
Assessment: pass/fail
Languages: Finnish, English
Further information: this course is open to everyone
Entrepreneurial Marketing, 2 ECTS
Content
On this course, you learn how to market an early-stage business. Topics include:
- entrepreneurial marketing
- marketing strategies in an early-stage company
- customer acquisition
- customer relationship development
- pricing
- selling
- profitability calculations
- Business Model Canvas, especially channels, customer relationships, revenue streams and cost structure
After completing the course, you will
- use innovative and flexible marketing strategies in different business situations
- understand how pricing and selling affect the profitability of a business
- strengthen your practical skills in marketing, pricing and sales
This course also helps you develop your generic competences in:
- mental flexibility
- communication
- entrepreneurship
Mode of study: independent study
Teaching method: independent online course
Assessment: pass/fail
Languages: Finnish, English
Further information: this course is open to everyone
Entrepreneurial Project Work, 1-6 ECTS
Content
On this course, you deepen your entrepreneurship skills through a practical project. You can choose one of the following completion methods:
- study a topic related to entrepreneurship or SME business activities through materials and possible research assignments, following the teacher's instructions
- carry out a commission or project related to entrepreneurship or SME business (for example, a YUFE Challenge Team, Draft Program entrepreneurship programme or Demola project) — agree on the details with the teacher in advance
- complete a practical training period in an SME or another entrepreneurship-related environment, with learning outcomes agreed upon with the teacher in advance
After completing the course, you will have
- deepened your understanding and skills in a topic related to entrepreneurship or SME business activities
- developed your ability to work in a goal-oriented, project-based manner
This course also helps you develop your generic competences in: internationalisation, critical thinking and professional expertise development.
Mode of study: independent and/or group work
Assessment: pass/fail
Language: Finnish
Commercializing High-Tech, 4 ECTS
Content
On this course, you learn the fundamentals of profitable business and practise practical skills for starting and growing a business in international markets.
After completing the course, you will
- recognise business opportunities arising from research and development results
- have the skills for successful commercialisation and launching a startup
Mode of study: lectures and assignments (28 hours)
Assessment: 0–5
Language: English
Responsible teacher: Jyrki Saarinen
Further information: This course is held on the Joensuu campus.