Haslam
Franchising
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Haslam College of Business offers the most comprehensive franchising initiatives in higher education. From undergraduate courses and executive certification to internships and business plan competitions, the college prepare students and professionals to understand, evaluate and succeed in the franchise industry whether as franchisees, franchisors or industry professionals.
Franchising
Overview
Haslam provides unparalleled franchising education across multiple touchpoints. Our students gain real-world experience through corporate partnerships, franchise site visits and direct access to industry leaders. With courses ranging from introductory to advanced levels, professional certification programs and competitive funding opportunities through the Shelly Sun Berkowitz Business Plan Competition, the college offer a complete franchising education ecosystem. Our outcome-driven approach means we measure success by informed decision-making, not franchise sales.
Introduction to Franchising
Cordell Riley’s foundational undergraduate course, offered each fall and spring semester, introduces students to franchise business models, legal structures and industry dynamics. Students explore career opportunities beyond franchise ownership, including franchise development, marketing management, operations consulting and supplier partnerships. Riley invites guest speakers from leading franchise systems to provide real-world perspectives and expert advice.
Franchising IN Action
An advanced spring semester course challenges students to develop complete business plans for actual franchise opportunities. Working with real franchise disclosure documents and market data, students conduct feasibility studies, create financial projections and present to industry professionals. The top plans advance to the Shelly Sun Berkowitz Business Plan Competition for potential funding support.
Corporate Partnerships
Our franchise industry partnerships provide students with internship opportunities, mentorship and career placement across the franchise ecosystem. Partners include established franchisors, multi-unit developers, franchise consultants and industry suppliers. Students gain experience in franchise sales, marketing, operations, real estate and development through semester-long internships and summer positions.
Business Plan Competition
The Shelly Sun Berkowitz Franchise Business Plan Competition, made possible through the generosity of franchise leader Shelly Sun Berkowitz, awards funding assistance to students with viable franchise concepts. Similar to the Graves Competition, participants pitch comprehensive business plans to industry judges. Winners receive ‘last dollar’ funding to bridge gaps after securing SBA loans and other financing, turning classroom learning into real business ventures.
Why Study Franchising?
Franchising contributes over $800 billion annually to the U.S. economy and offers many career paths beyond ownership. Graduates can pursue careers as franchise development managers, marketing directors, operations consultants, real estate specialists and supplier account managers. Through site visits to successful franchises, internships with industry leaders and mentorship from alumni, students build networks that launch careers. The franchise industry actively recruits Haslam graduates who understand both franchisor and franchisee perspectives.
WHAT MAKES Haslam’s Franchising Education UNIQUE?
Haslam delivers a robust franchising education through multiple learning pathways. Undergraduates can build a strong foundation, progressing from introductory concepts to advanced business planning. Working professionals benefit from the college’s no-cost certification program, sponsored by Shelly Sun Berkowitz, designed to offer accessible, high-quality training.
Haslam’s mission centers on teaching due diligence and informed decision-making, not promoting specific franchises. This objective, outcome-driven approach ensures students receive a well-rounded education.
Franchise Certification Program
PROGRAM OFFERINGS
No-Cost, Online Franchise Course
Join Haslam’s live, online Franchise Certification program for seven weeks of comprehensive franchise education. Through the generous support of franchise leader Shelly Sun Berkowitz, this premium executive education from Haslam is offered at no cost.
Program Details
- Format: Live, online interactive sessions
- Schedule: Mondays, 6-7:30 p.m. ET
- Start Date: March 2, 2026
- Duration: Seven weeks
- Cost: No cost (regularly $2,495)
Program Learning Outcomes
- Franchise legal structures and FDD analysis
- Financial evaluation and unit economics
- Territory development and site selection
- Operations, training and brand standards
- Due diligence and decision frameworks
- Industry trends and emerging opportunities
Perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs, military veterans transitioning to civilian careers and professionals exploring franchise opportunities, Haslam’s outcome-driven approach ensures participants gain objective insights to make informed decisions about franchising.
Questions?
CONTACT US
Interested in franchising education at UT? Whether you’re an undergraduate exploring career options, a professional seeking certification or a company interested in partnership opportunities, the college’s expert staff can connect you with the right program. Contact us to discover why Haslam is the premier destination for franchising education.