In 2021 Aces Academy, in collaboration with the University of Bari, Aldo Moro, Italy; University of Ioannina, Greece; Vilnius University, Lithuania; and University of Žilina, Slovakia, commenced development on an ARPEL-based Bachelor’s Degree in Entrepreneurship. This web-based solution provided applicants with the opportunity to get recognition for their non-formal and informal learning as well as for their work and relevant life experience. Following the successful graduation of the first cohort in 2023, Aces Academy, as the awarding body, in collaboration with the partner HEIs, is offering the programme to suitably experienced applicants.
The Programme comprises three stages: Stage 1: ARPEL process is primarily system based and will include one or more online interviews as part of the evaluation process, Stage 2: Course subject modules and Stage 3: final research project. During Stages 2 and 3, in addition to the self-learning elements, students would be required to attend one weekly online tutorial/workshop. The blended learning programme includes and additional weekly support on-site classroom session to guide and support students in the preparation of their coursework.
The online learning programme is delivered over a period of 84 weeks based on the sequential scheduling of the final research project on completion of the course subject modules. The blend-ed learning programme in Malta is delivered over a period of 64 weeks, where the research project module runs in parallel with the subject modules.
Project Partners:
- Aces Academy (Malta)
- University of Bari Aldo Moro (Italy)
- University of Ioannina (Greece)
- University of Zilina (Slovakia)
- Vilnius University (Lithuania)
Technical Partners:
- eBusiness Systems (Malta)
- EUCEN (Belgium)
Stage 1 – ARPEL Process
- Initial steps include online interviews and evaluation to assess prior learning and experiences.
Stage 2 – Subject Modules
- Participants choose 8 out of 10 entrepreneurship-related modules to develop skills in business management and growth
Stage 3 – Final Research Project
- Participants develop an investor-ready business plan focused on launching or growing their business.
Target Group
Entrepreneurs with Over 4 Years of SME Experience (No MQF Level 6 Qualification):
- Professionals who have practical experience running small and medium enterprises (SMEs) but lack a formal Level 6 qualification in entrepreneurship or related fields.
Entrepreneurs with MQF Level 6 or 7 Qualification (Non-Business Related):
- Individuals holding a Level 6 or 7 qualification in areas unrelated to business, such as science, engineering, or the arts, who wish to transition into the business or entrepreneurship field.
Students with Post-Secondary Qualifications in Business-Related Subjects:
- Young adults (typically ages 19+) who have completed post-secondary education (A-levels or equivalent) in fields such as Accounting, Finance, Business and Management, Marketing, or Human Resource Management, and are looking to pursue higher education in entrepreneurship.
The target audience: Ages 19-30/31-65/65+.
Overal Course Objetives
Evaluate Core Competencies:
- Assess personal, team, and organisational core competencies to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
Recommend Team Training Needs:
- Suggest relevant training based on the analysis of current competencies and identified organisational needs.
Identify Required Skills and Knowledge:
- Determine the necessary skills and knowledge for specific tasks, whether in communication, theoretical understanding, or practical application.
Collect Relevant Information:
- Demonstrate the ability to gather information related to entrepreneurship and other relevant business fields.
Create a Personal Learning Plan:
- Recognise the need for further knowledge and draft a personal learning plan for future studies or development.
Evaluate Management Science:
- Assess the potential and limitations of management science, its societal impact, and an individual’s responsibility in its application.
Analyse International Business Challenges:
- Develop analytical skills to understand the ongoing challenges faced by international businesses.
Learning Hours
Contact Hours: 1,172
Self-Study Hours: 2,986
Supervised Placement and Practice Hours: 204
Assessment Hours: 138
Total Learning Hours: 4,500
Teaching & learning
Online: Delivered via the e-learning platform at https://acesacademyonline.com, offering flexible learning through a state-of-the-art virtual campus.
- Onsite: Aces Academy Centre
115 Triq Il-Flotta, Il-Gżira GZR 1070, Malta
Language of Instruction: English
Assessment Methods
Each module in the Bachelor’s Degree in Entrepreneurship will be assessed based on the following components:
- Quality of Contributions in Forums: 20%
- Evaluation of participation and quality of insights shared in online discussion forums.
- Quality of Contributions in Tutorials: 20%
- Assessment of engagement and contributions during tutorial sessions.
- Research-Based Assignments: 60%
- Completion and quality of research assignments, demonstrating in-depth understanding and application of module content.
Fee Structure
- Bachelor’s Degree in Entrepreneurship (EQF/MQF Level 6, 180 ECTS)
- ARPEL Process: 90 ECTS
- 8 Subject Modules: 8 ECTS credits each
- Research Project
- Online Programme (84 weeks, part-time): €9,540
- Blended Learning Programme (64 weeks, full-time): €13,240
- Award in SME Operations (EQF/MQF Level 6)
- ARPEL Process: 90 ECTS
- Online Programme (12 weeks): €890
- Award in Entrepreneurship (EQF/MQF Level 6)
- ARPEL Process: 90 ECTS
- 8 Subject Modules: 8 ECTS credits each
- Duration: 60 weeks
- Online Programme: €8,490
- Blended Learning Programme: €11,690
- Individual Course Modules (EQF/MQF Level 6, 8 ECTS)
- Duration: 6 weeks
- Online: €890
- Blended: €1,350
Scholarship Schemes
- Partial scholarships may be available.
- Terms and conditions apply.
For more information about the terms, conditions, and benefits of these incentives, please contact us at https://acesacademyonline.com/.
Intakes
Intake 1: January 22/01/2024
Intake 2: March 04/03/2024
Intake 3: April 15/04/2024
Intake 4: May 27/05/2024
Intake 5: July 08/07/2024
Intake 6: August 26/08/2024
Intake 7: October 07/10/2024
Intake 8: November 18/11/2024
Admission Process
Complete the Online Form:
- Fill out the application form available at this link.
- Submit Required Documents:
- Send all necessary documentation as specified in the application guidelines and await approval.
- Payment for ARPEL Process:
- Make the payment for the ARPEL process as instructed in the application materials.
- Attend the Evaluation Interview:
- Participate in an evaluation interview to assess your prior learning and experience, earning your final ECTS score in the ARPEL process at Level 6.
- Eligibility for the Full Programme:
- If the ECTS credits earned are equal to or above 74, you will be eligible to enrol in the full Bachelor’s Degree in Entrepreneurship Programme.
- Invitation to Proceed:
- Once selected, applicants will receive an invitation to proceed with the programme, along with the terms and conditions provided.
Contact Details
For inquiries, please reach out to us at:
- Email: Info@acesacademyonline.com
Programme Leaflet
How to Apply
The Bachelor’s Degree in Entrepreneurship offers a transformative opportunity to develop essential skills and knowledge in the dynamic field of entrepreneurship. Designed for aspiring entrepreneurs and business professionals, this programme combines theoretical concepts with practical applications, empowering participants to navigate the challenges of starting and managing a business. Through a blend of online and blended learning formats, students will engage in core modules and a final research project, allowing them to create a robust foundation for their entrepreneurial journey. By enrolling in this programme, you will gain the tools necessary to drive innovation, achieve your business goals, and make a meaningful impact in the entrepreneurial landscape.
Application Process
- Prepare Your Documents: Ensure you have all the necessary documentation ready before starting your application.
- Complete the Online Application Form: Begin your application by clicking [Register Here] to access the registration form. Make sure to fill out all required fields accurately to avoid delays.
- Submit Your Application: Once you submit the form, you’ll receive a confirmation email regarding the status of your application. If your application is successful, further instructions will be sent to guide you through the next steps.
Important Information for Non-EU Students
If you are a non-EU student wishing to enrol in the blended learning option at Aces Academy, please be aware that a visa is required to study in Malta. For comprehensive information on the application process and requirements, please visit the Identity Malta – Central Visa Unit website. You can access the site through this link: Identity Malta – Central Visa Unit.
For more assistance with the application or any other queries, feel free to contact our admissions team at admin@aea.academy or Info@acesacademyonline.com
PROGRAMME: Bachelor’s Degree in Entrepreneurship
EQF/MQF*: Level 6
*European Qualification Framework/Malta Qualification Framework
CREDITS: 180 ECTS
DELIVERY & DURATION:
Online Learning: 84 weeks (part-time)
Blended Learning: 64 weeks (full-time)
LANGUAGE: English