University of Maryland, College Park

Legal Foundations for Entrepreneurs

University of Maryland, College Park

Legal Foundations for Entrepreneurs

Wilson L. White
Dr. James V. Green

Instructors: Wilson L. White

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8,326 already enrolled

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

85 reviews

Beginner level

Recommended experience

6 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

85 reviews

Beginner level

Recommended experience

6 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Understand how the law influences the success of entrepreneurs.

  • Know your options for establishing and managing a new company.

  • Build awareness of employment laws and policies impacting entrepreneurs.

  • Avoid the legal pitfalls that can encumber new and established entrepreneurial ventures.

Details to know

Shareable certificate

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Assessments

4 assignments

Taught in English

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Build your subject-matter expertise

This course is part of the Legal Aspects of Entrepreneurship Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
  • Learn new concepts from industry experts
  • Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
  • Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
  • Earn a shareable career certificate

There are 8 modules in this course

Legal awareness is a competitive advantage for entrepreneurs. In this module, you'll learn how this course will help you recognize legal issues, make better business decisions, and build a strong foundation for launching and growing your venture. You'll also see how each module prepares you for the legal challenges entrepreneurs face throughout the life of a business.

What's included

4 readings

Successful entrepreneurs recognize legal issues before they become costly business problems. In this module, you'll build a practical understanding of how the legal system supports businesses, learn when to seek legal guidance, and develop the skills to identify common legal risks. By the end, you'll be better prepared to make informed business decisions with greater confidence.

What's included

5 videos4 readings1 assignment

Legally establishing your business is one of the first major decisions you'll make as an entrepreneur. In this module, you'll learn how businesses are formally created, the roles and responsibilities of corporate leaders, and the legal structures that support effective governance. By the end, you'll be better prepared to establish your business on a strong legal foundation and make governance decisions that support long-term growth.

What's included

3 videos3 readings1 assignment

Choosing the right legal structure is one of the most important decisions you'll make as an entrepreneur. In this module, you'll compare common business entities, evaluate their advantages and limitations, and learn how your choice can affect liability, taxes, management, and future growth. By the end, you'll be better prepared to select a legal structure that aligns with your business goals.

What's included

5 videos6 readings1 assignment

Hiring your first employee is an exciting milestone, but it also creates new legal responsibilities. In this module, you'll learn how employment laws affect hiring decisions, understand the difference between employees and independent contractors, and identify steps that help reduce legal risk. By the end, you'll be better prepared to build your team with confidence.

What's included

2 videos2 readings

As your business grows, strong employment practices help protect both your company and your employees. In this module, you'll learn how employment agreements, equity compensation, and employment laws establish clear expectations, reduce legal risk, and support long-term business success. By the end, you'll be better prepared to build and manage a growing team with confidence.

What's included

3 videos2 readings1 assignment

Successful entrepreneurs think beyond launching and managing a business. They also prepare for future growth, major business opportunities, and important career transitions. In this module, you'll explore legal considerations involved in buying or selling a business, raising capital through a public offering, and transitioning from employee to full-time entrepreneur. By the end, you'll better understand how thoughtful legal planning supports long-term business success.

What's included

3 videos2 readings

Congratulations on completing Legal Foundations for Entrepreneurs! You've built a practical understanding of the legal principles that help entrepreneurs recognize risks, make informed business decisions, and build stronger businesses. In this final section, you'll reflect on what you've accomplished, explore opportunities to continue your learning, and prepare to apply these concepts to your own entrepreneurial journey.

What's included

3 readings

Earn a career certificate

Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.

Instructors

Instructor ratings
(14 ratings)
Wilson L. White
University of Maryland, College Park
3 Courses18,621 learners
Dr. James V. Green
University of Maryland, College Park
13 Courses205,202 learners

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