Before you determine what subject to major in at college, whether it’s traditional campus-based or through an online education, it’s a good idea to ask an adviser or mentor how the skills you will learn in that field can be used in a career. If you choose business as your major, your training will be so varied that it can be applied to a number of jobs. A business degree is often considered a safe degree because it’s so practical. Every organization or company needs employees who are trained to organize, plan and manage.
According to the Department of Education, business is the most popular field of study for undergraduate students. In 2006, of the more than 1.5 million college graduates, more than 320,000 were in the field of business. In fact since 1996, the number of business graduates has almost doubled the number of students graduating in other areas of study. Why is business such a popular degree? Students recognize the skills learned in business are transferable to almost every job.
You can add a business degree to your qualifications by taking courses online. A few classes in business management or financial planning may help you leap up the corporate ladder. Whether you are already in the working world, or just out of high school, online college can fit your educational needs. The lectures, tests and study time can be molded to your schedule. There’s no need to move into a dorm, attend night school or eat cafeteria food.
Many online colleges offer the same curriculum as traditional colleges. Before enrolling in a business program, students will take basic college courses, like algebra, philosophy and writing. As you advance in your college career, more degree specific classes will be added, like economics, accounting and finance.
A bachelor’s degree is your basic four year college degree. Associates degree programs, which traditionally take two years, are also available. All rankings of business degrees from associates to a Master’s of Business Administration and a doctorate degree are available online. Many online programs also offer certification courses for those looking to work in a specific field.
If you choose to get a bachelors degree in business, there are lots of opportunities to specialize. Business majors can choose to focus on accounting, finance, and marketing, even non-profit management. Specializing within a business program is a good idea if you are confident about the career you want.
The employment and earnings outlook is good for business majors. According to the Pay Scale Report, some of the ten most popular jobs for business majors include human resources manager, retail store manager and construction project manager. With an undergraduate degree and some work experience, most of these job holders average over $34,000 a year.
