According to Forbes, business is the most popular college major, and therefore, the most common college degree. It’s estimated that nearly 1 in 5 degrees obtained are business-related. Because it is such a common field, getting a business degree qualifies you for a variety of different career opportunities.
What do business students study?
When you study business in college, you’ll learn business theories such as finance, marketing, advertising, and administration. There are several concentrations you may choose to study in the field of business, including:
- Finance
- Accounting
- Marketing
- Human resources
- Public administration
Many careers in business only require bachelor’s degrees, but some choose to further their education by earning a masters degree. If you’re going back to school, or considering majoring in business, it’s good practice to know what to expect as far as jobs go after graduation. Here’s a list of just a few careers you can have with an undergraduate degree in business.
Human resource professionals are responsible for hiring and maintaining employees as well. Human resource specialists are vital to well-run businesses. They are usually also responsible for employee training, payroll, and benefits as well as general employee relations. It’s estimated that HR specialist roles will grow by 8% by 2031.
Median salary: $62,290
Advertising, promotions, and marketing managers plan and execute campaigns to generate public interest in a company’s products or services. Some marketing managers may be employed by a business itself, but many are employed by advertising agencies. Roles for marketing managers are expected to grow 10%.
Median salary $127,150
Financial managers develop financial reports and long-term financial goals of organizations. They can work in a few different environments, such as investment firms, insurance companies, and banks. The career outlook is expected to grow by 17% by 2031.
Median salary: $131,710
Accountants prepare, analyze, and maintain financial records for a business or organization. They may also be hired by an individual to interpret his or her finances as well. Accountants can also be hired by accounting firms. Many accountants not only have at least a bachelor’s degree, but a CPA (certified public accountant) certification as well. Employment of accountants is expected to grow 6%.
Median salary: $77,250
Sales managers direct and manage an organization’s sales team. They do this by setting goals and developing strategies for achieving those goals. Sales managers are also usually responsible for training and recruiting new members of their sales team. This job is projected to grow by 5% by 2031.
Median salary: $127,490
Research analysts study consumer preferences and behaviors to assist in potential sales of a product or service. Through market research, they help companies understand what consumers want to buy. Research analysis roles are expected to grow by 19% by 2031.
Median salary: $63,920
Financial analysts study a business’ or individual’s expenses and finances and guide them on how to attain profit and manage their money. Financial analyst roles are expected to grow by 9%.
Median salary: $95,570
Depending on the type and level of degree you achieve, there could be hundreds of additional job opportunities in the business industry. If you’re interested in obtaining a business degree but may not be sure where to start, call one of Operation Graduate’s Graduation Specialists to get started.