Business

All You Need to Know About Starting a Business Program

Out of all your many educational options, earning a business degree might be the most versatile in terms of career paths. You might consider focusing your studies in finance, human resources, management, marketing, or any number of other areas. There are also plentiful options for general business studies that can open doors to a wealth of possible occupations.

Like other degree programs, you can expect both general education and major-specific courses when pursuing a business degree. Math is obviously a big part of any business course of study, especially if you focus on accounting or finance. If marketing is your passion, you’ll take plenty of psychology courses and learn about advertising as well. Combined with foundational courses in history, communications, and other subjects, your business degree program will provide you with a well-rounded knowledge base.

There are some core skills that will serve you well in any business course of study, whether you’re pursuing a certificate, bachelor’s degree, or even a doctorate. Anyone who succeeds in the business world possesses strong attention to detail and the ability to share complex information in easy-to-understand ways. Being a good listener is a vital and underrated strength shared by successful businesspeople.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects faster-than-average job growth for many business occupations over the next few years. Financial managers, personal financial advisors, and management analysts have especially healthy outlooks. Here are the requirements of a few popular careers within the business sector:

  • Accountants: A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related area is typically required for entry-level jobs. Some earn master’s degrees in business administration (MBA) or become certified public accountants (CPAs). CPAs must earn state licensure.
  • Financial Analysts: A bachelor’s degree in finance, statistics, or economics is usually required to work in this role. Some positions require master’s degrees, and the Chartered Financial Analyst certification (CFA) is a valuable credential as well.
  • Accounting and Auditing Clerks: These positions often require only a high school diploma and on-the-job training. An associate’s degree or certificate can improve your career prospects in this area.
  • Real Estate Appraisers: An associate’s degree is typically required, although prerequisites vary by state.
  • Financial Managers: These positions require at least a bachelor’s degree, with many employers preferring more advanced education. An MBA or master’s degree in finance might be required for certain specialized positions under the financial management umbrella.

Salaries in the business sector obviously vary according to position and education level. Accountants earn a median salary of about $70,000, while many financial managers earn over $100,000. Accounting and auditing clerks typically make around $40,000, while top executives often take home six-figure salaries.

Whatever type of business degree you earn, you’ll have a wide variety of possible career paths to follow. If you’re a detail-oriented person with a flair for facts and figures, you can find a rewarding professional calling in the business sector.

FIND COLLEGES FOR BUSINESS

9 sponsored schools found

  • Centura College

    Centura College

    Campus
    4455 South Blvd., Virginia Beach, VA 23452
    Private For-Profit
    27 Programs
    0 Online programs
  • Classes & Careers

    Classes & Careers

    Online
    United States
    Private Non-Profit
    0 Programs
    51 Online programs
  • Davenport University

    Davenport University

    Online
    6191 Kraft Avenue SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512
    Private Non-Profit
    0 Programs
    48 Online programs
  • Keiser University

    Keiser University

    Campus
    1500 NW 49th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
    Private Non-Profit
    61 Programs
    0 Online programs
  • Liberty University

    Liberty University

    Online
    1971 University Blvd. Lynchburg, Va. 24515
    Private Non-Profit
    0 Programs
    11 Online programs
  • Purdue University Global

    Purdue University Global

    Online
    9000 Keystone Crossing #800, Indianapolis, IN 46240
    Private For-Profit
    0 Programs
    32 Online programs
  • Southern New Hampshire University

    Southern New Hampshire University

    Online
    2500 N River Rd, Hooksett, NH 03106
    Private Non-Profit
    0 Programs
    87 Online programs
  • UEI College

    UEI College

    Campus
    Multiple Locations in California
    Private For-Profit
    11 Programs
    0 Online programs
  • Western Governors University

    Western Governors University

    Online
    Millcreek, Utah, United States
    Private Non-Profit
    0 Programs
    14 Online programs