Course code: ADM4396 (BCom), ADM6394 (MBA)

Advising Family Business allows BCom and MBA students to delve into the most fundamental challenges facing family businesses today. Both practical and applied, this course provides realistic insight and tools directly applicable to the practice of advising family-led firms around the globe.

The highly interactive course considers topics such as succession issues and planning, resolving family conflicts, developing proper governance, and the importance of communication in both the business and family. Case studies hone students’ critical thinking and analytic skills, leading to a deeper understanding of best practice. Prominent guest speakers who work directly in the field present to the class each week, sharing insider experiences.

With the growing understanding of the importance and challenges of entrepreneurial families in our economy, this course would be relevant for any BCom or MBA students.

Course code: ADM2313 (English); ADM2713 (French)

The Entrepreneurial Society considers entrepreneurship from all perspectives – in new ventures or large companies, as well as intrapreneurship inside government or not-for-profit organizations. Embedded in the course will be topics in family entrepreneurship, including two modules specifically covering the evolution of entrepreneurship to family enterprise, as well as key issues involving family succession.

Diverse subjects such as social entrepreneurship, women and minorities in entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial finance will be covered, as well as entrepreneurship as an economic development strategy and a focus for policy. Apart from lectures, numerous case studies and guest speakers will enhance the learning experience. Students will leave the course with a clear understanding of the nature and importance of entrepreneurship in our society and an appreciation of the various aspects and components that make up the broader study of entrepreneurship.

Course code: MGT8105

Part of the Telfer PhD in Management, Contexts of Entrepreneurship explores key topics in the burgeoning field of entrepreneurship research. Three modules focus specifically on research at the intersection of entrepreneurship and family enterprise, delving into research and discussion about families, transgenerational entrepreneurship, legacy, and governance. Other topics include cultural and institutional entrepreneurship, entrepreneurial marketing, the gig economy, entrepreneurship in transition economies and entrepreneurship as emancipation.

Students will advance their knowledge around important contexts in entrepreneurial research, while also gaining familiarity with the literature and developing the ability to think critically about the topics and engage in related research. This course will additionally help students become more adept at reviewing and writing papers, facilitating the writing of their thesis proposal and thesis.