The University of Tennessee, Haslam College of Business, is making significant strides in franchise education. Its Online Franchise Certification program recently received a prestigious endorsement from the International Franchise Association (IFA), the leading authority on franchising. This endorsement not only validates the program’s academic standards but also positions it as a premier destination for aspiring franchise professionals.
A New Era of Franchise Education
As an affiliate of the IFA, Haslam College of Business now offers its students a unique advantage: eligibility for a non-degree certificate from the IFA’s Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) program. Recognized as the gold standard in franchise education, the CFE certification is known for propelling franchise professionals to new heights of success.
“Thousands of franchise professionals at every stage of their careers have reached new levels of professional success after achieving the CFE certification,” notes the IFA on its website, underscoring the value of this new partnership for Haslam students.
Lindsay Mahony, director of franchising program initiatives and senior lecturer at Haslam, expressed enthusiasm about the new affiliation. “Part of the mission of the Haslam College of Business is to serve the citizens of Tennessee and beyond by providing inspiring educational opportunities. We are grateful for the opportunity to enhance our program offerings with this non-degree certificate for our community members with an entrepreneurial mindset who are interested in franchising.”
Comprehensive Curriculum for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
The Online Franchise Certification program at Haslam is designed to prepare students to embark on their entrepreneurial journeys and franchise careers with confidence and support. The seven-week, live, and synchronous curriculum provides a comprehensive overview of the franchising business, covering essential topics such as:
- Foundations: How franchising differs from other businesses
- Evaluation: Determining the right franchise business for you
- Acquisition: Learning to write a business plan and obtain funding
- Building: Recruiting, hiring and retaining franchise employees
- Leadership: Modeling the qualities of a successful franchise leader
- Operations: Managing and measuring operational components of franchising
- Growth: Implementing successful practices to ensure successful growth
Cordell Riley, a seasoned franchising expert with nearly 30 years of experience, serves as the program instructor and advisor. Riley emphasizes the program’s mission to empower entrepreneurs: “We want to show the next generation of entrepreneurs how they can be in business for themselves, but not by themselves.”
This philosophy reflects the essence of the franchising model—providing a pathway to entrepreneurship while benefiting from the support and structure of an established brand.
A Vision for the Future of Franchising
The creation of this program was made possible by the vision and generosity of Shelly Sun Berkowitz, founder and executive chairwoman of BrightStar Group Holdings, Inc., and a Haslam alumna. Her commitment to franchising education has been instrumental in bringing this initiative to life. Under the leadership of Riley and with the support of a national board of professional advisors, the program offers students ample opportunities to expand their networks and learn from experienced franchise professionals.
The Haslam College of Business’s Online Franchise Certification program has the potential to be more than just a course—it’s a launchpad for aspiring franchise owners and business leaders. With its new IFA affiliation, the program stands as a testament to Haslam’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurial spirit and providing the tools needed for success in the dynamic world of franchising.
The University of Tennessee mentioned in its recent press release that the fall 2024 session begins on October 7, and spaces are limited. Don’t miss your chance to learn how to be in business for yourself, while being part of something bigger. For more information and to register, visit the Haslam College of Business website.
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