May 31, 2020
It’s always helpful to tackle some initial decisions before making any sort of major commitment. When purchasing a vehicle, for instance, you would probably choose your price range and which basic style you want before even considering specifics. That approach can be just as helpful in choosing the degree that’s right for you. You’ve already determined you want to study business, which is a wise choice when you consider a survey from the National Association of Colleges and Employers found that five out of the 10 most in-demand majors among employers are business degrees. Now you just need to determine which specific concentration you want to study. Luckily, you have a lot of options. Take a look at the types of business degrees outlined below to start exploring which one could help you make your professional dreams a reality.
7 types of business degrees and the careers that can follow
While not an exhaustive list of types of business degrees, these offerings should help you gain a better sense of which path you might want to choose.1. Accounting
Students who pursue a degree in accounting learn the basics of financial statement analysis, what goes into a typical auditing process and how to help individuals and companies with tax and financial planning. If you study accounting, expect to complete courses that cover the principals of accounting, federal tax law and financial analysis. This degree concentration is also a good stepping stone for individuals who wish to become a certified public accountant (CPA). Common accounting job titles:- Staff accountant
- Accounting manager
- Controller
2. Business administration
Whether you’re pursuing a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree, business administration is a great option to prepare you for any number of leadership roles. Business administration students learn how to effectively build teams, think critically and strategize. As a student in this field, you’ll complete coursework covering a range of concepts like business law, global business and leadership. MBA students will explore these concepts even further, qualifying them for more advanced roles. Common business administration job titles:- Business analyst
- Sales manager
- Project manager
3. Entrepreneurship
If you’ve always dreamed of starting your own business, studying entrepreneurship can help you gain the cross-functional knowledge and skills you need to be a successful self-starter. Entrepreneurship degree programs typically focus on a lot of start-up tasks that are essential for getting a new venture off the ground. Students who choose to pursue this path typically take classes that cover just about every other discipline on this list, so it’s a great field of study even for those who aren't looking to run their own company. Common entrepreneurship job titles:- CEO
- Business consultant
- Management analyst
4. Finance
Both organizations and individuals rely on knowledgeable professionals to guide their investment decisions. Students can work toward this type of career by obtaining a degree in finance, which can help them learn the ins and outs of financial markets and how to identify the value of various assets. College finance students typically complete courses in accounting, business law and financial management. Common finance job titles:- Financial analyst
- Director of finance
- Internal auditor
5. Health care administration
Health care administration is a field of study all its own, because effectively running hospitals and similar facilities requires industry-specific knowledge. Health care administration students learn how to become leaders while navigating complex systems and strict laws. The specialized nature of health care management means students will complete courses related to ethics, policy and health informatics. Common health care administration job titles:- Practice manager
- Health services manager
- Medical records manager
6. International business
Companies, markets and people all around the world are more connected than ever. But cultural differences mean there can be significant differences in the way business is conducted from one country to the next, so gaining perspective by studying international business can be helpful. Students who focus their studies on this discipline will take courses in global economics, intercultural communications and more. Many students also find it helpful to study abroad as a way to get their feet wet. Career options:- International trade specialist
- Import or export agent
- Contract negotiator
7. Marketing
In a nutshell, marketing is about attracting and retaining customers. Professionals in this field often discuss the importance of delivering the right message to the right person at the right time. Students who graduate from a marketing program may go on to work in advertising, but marketing is an essential business function for all types of organizations. As a marketing student, you’ll take courses in advertising and marketing principles, consumer behavior and public relations. Career options:- Director of marketing
- Digital marketing manager
- Account coordinator