[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”lg”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Key Takeaways[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”check” marker-color=”secondary”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Business degrees help students prepare for lucrative jobs, no matter their degree level — average salaries for professionals who hold associate ($63,000), bachelor’s ($76,000), and master’s ($98,000) degrees in business are all well above average.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Common business degree concentrations include accounting, AI, data analytics, finance, and marketing.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Online business programs cover topics like ethics, organizational behavior, and business valuation, often through flexible and asynchronous classes.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-flex] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A business degree can open doors to many exciting, high-paying careers in commerce, technology, manufacturing, finance, and other industries. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), business is the most popular major for undergraduates.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]As one of the most versatile majors, a business degree can prepare you to work in fast-growing industries like marketing, information technology, and financial services. Business graduates often enjoy above-average salaries and strong job growth, and many schools have expanded to offer online degrees in business.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This guide explores business degrees at every level and their various concentrations. Explore professional pathways for graduates of business programs, including data on earning potential.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Is a Business Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A business degree is a broad academic program that can prepare you for a career in finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, human resources, or another business area. You can earn a business degree at any level, from a two-year associate’s degree to a research-based doctorate.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Business Degrees: Concentrations and Minors[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]There are many different types of business degrees offered at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. These may be offered as concentrations, minors, or separate majors entirely. Some of the most common business degree concentrations include human resources, marketing, finance, and management.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Can I Get a Business Degree Online?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes — you can find online business degrees at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. The rigor of these programs may increase at each level, but so can your earning potential.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Business Degrees: From Associate to Doctorate[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Business degrees vary range from two-year programs that prepare you for an entry-level role to Ph.D.s in business that can help you secure a leadership, teaching, or research position.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Associate Degree in Business”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Program Length: 2 years[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Required Credits: 60[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Potential Jobs: Travel agent, human resources assistant, executive assistant, facilities manager, insurance sales agent[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/associates/best-online-associate-business-administration/”]Associate degrees in business[/hen-ui-link] provide foundational knowledge in the subject, preparing you for an entry-level business career or giving you a leg up on your bachelor’s degree.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most associate programs require 60 college credits and two years of full-time enrollment. Community colleges and some four-year institutions offer these programs.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Bachelor’s Degree in Business”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Program Length: 4 years[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Required Credits: 120[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Potential Jobs: Accountant, budget analyst, loan officer, management analyst[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/affordable/online-bachelors-business/”]bachelor’s degree in business[/hen-ui-link] can position you for a career in management, marketing, accounting, finance, or business development. You might focus on a field like cybersecurity, information technology, or another business subdiscipline.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A bachelor’s degree usually comprises 120 credits and takes four years of full-time study to complete. Liberal arts colleges and research universities offer bachelor’s degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Master’s Degree in Business (MBA)”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Program Length: 2 years[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Required Credits: 30-40[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Potential Jobs: Market research analyst, financial analyst, training manager, top executive[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Widely regarded as a critical stepping stone to leadership roles in business, [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-mba/”]the MBA[/hen-ui-link] is a flexible, immersive, and practical program for ambitious business professionals.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You can pursue this degree, with or without a specialization, through full-time or part-time enrollment and on-campus or online delivery. The degree usually takes 1-3 years to complete and requires coursework in ethics, management, and organizational behavior.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Doctoral Degree in Business”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Program Length: 4-5 years[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Required Credits: 60-120[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Potential Jobs: Postsecondary business teacher, survey researcher, postsecondary education administrator[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A doctoral degree in business administration is the most advanced academic degree in the field.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While the doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) and the doctor of business administration (DBA) are both advanced research degrees, the Ph.D. can prepare you to become a researcher or professor, while the DBA equips practice-oriented researchers and industry leaders. Doctoral degrees can take 3-7 years to complete.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Types of Business Degrees: A Deeper Dive[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Choose a business concentration where you feel satisfied, engaged, and well compensated for your skills and experience. If you’re unsure which area to focus on, talk to a mentor, professor, or career counselor about how to select the right path for your future.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”ordered” bullet-style=”number”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#accounting”]Accounting[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#data-analytics”]Data Analytics[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#economics”]Economics[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#entrepreneurship”]Entrepreneurship (Corporate Strategy)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#finance”]Finance[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#healthcare-management”]Healthcare Management[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#human-resouces”]Human Resources[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#international-business”]International Business[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#management”]Management (General)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#marketing”]Marketing[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#organizational-leadership”]Organizational Leadership[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#supply-chain”]Supply Chain and Logistics (Operations)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”accounting”]1. Accounting[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accounting concentrations develop skills like budgeting, analyzing financial records, business taxation, and auditing. An [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-accounting/”]accounting-focused degree[/hen-ui-link] can prepare you to help organizations navigate economic conditions and make better financial decisions.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/accountants-and-auditors.htm#tab-1″ target=”_blank”]Bureau of Labor Statistics[/hen-ui-link] (BLS), accounting professionals made a median annual salary of $81,680 as of May 2024.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”data-analytics”]2. Data Analytics[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A concentration in [hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-data-science/”]data analytics[/hen-ui-link] can prepare you to draw insights from various information sets, which can improve business decisions and your understanding of market conditions.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A specialization in this field may cover data analytics technology, marketing, and market research analysis. The median annual salary for market research analysts was $76,950 as of May 2024, [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/market-research-analysts.htm” target=”_blank”]according to the BLS[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”economics”]3. Economics[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In an economics concentration, you’ll gain an understanding of financial markets and corporate finance. You may encounter this subject as a concentration or a standalone [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-economics/”]economics program[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This discipline can teach you about consumer behaviors and how businesses can maneuver through the global marketplace. Economists earn a [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/economists.htm” target=”_blank”]median annual salary of $115,440[/hen-ui-link] as of May 2024, though they may need advanced education beyond a bachelor’s degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”entrepreneurship”]4. Entrepreneurship (Corporate Strategy)[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Entrepreneurship concentrations can prepare you to launch and manage your own business venture. You can learn to develop and commercialize ideas and innovations, handle early venture financing, and create business models.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-entrepreneurship/”]Entrepreneurship programs[/hen-ui-link] can lead to many business careers, including [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/management-analysts.htm” target=”_blank”]management analyst[/hen-ui-link], who earned a median annual salary of $101,190 in May 2024.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”finance”]5. Finance[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In a finance concentration, you can learn to analyze an organization’s finances, spot investment opportunities, identify risk, and improve financial decisions. Coursework fosters skills in capital budgeting, investment analysis, and business valuation and forecasting.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-finance/”]Finance degrees[/hen-ui-link] can prepare you to pursue many finance- and leadership-related positions, including financial manager. As of May 2024, [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/financial-managers.htm” target=”_blank”]these professionals earned[/hen-ui-link] a median annual salary of $161,700.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”healthcare-management”]6. Healthcare Management[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Hospitality and tourism management concentrations focus on lodging operations, international tourism, and destination marketing.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You can explore unique management challenges in the hospitality and service industry and ways to approach these issues. Lodging management roles earned a [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/lodging-managers.htm” target=”_blank”]median annual salary of $68,130[/hen-ui-link] as of May 2024.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”human-resouces”]7. Human Resources[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you specialize in [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-human-resources/”]human resources[/hen-ui-link], you can learn to manage people and help connect management professionals to their employees.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You might study subjects like recruitment, compensation and benefits management, and employee and labor relations in these concentrations. [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/human-resources-specialists.htm” target=”_blank”]Data from the BLS[/hen-ui-link] indicates that human resources specialists earned a median annual salary of $72,910 as of May 2024.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”international-business”]8. International Business[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-international-business/”]international business[/hen-ui-link] concentration examines standard business topics in global contexts. For example, you might examine how foreign language, culture, and policy shape finance, marketing, and consumer behavior.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]International business specializations can lead to many business roles in international organizations, such as an operations research analyst. [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/operations-research-analysts.htm” target=”_blank”]These professionals earned[/hen-ui-link] a median annual salary of $91,290 as of May 2024.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”management”]9. Management (General)[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A management concentration in a business administration program develops leadership skills across various sectors. Your studies may cover business ethics and analysis, organizational behavior, operations management, and strategic management.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A [hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-business-management/”]business management[/hen-ui-link] degree can lead to most careers in management, [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/home.htm” target=”_blank”]a field that reported[/hen-ui-link] a median annual salary of $122,090 in May 2024.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”marketing”]10. Marketing[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-marketing/”]Marketing concentrations[/hen-ui-link] delve into advertising planning and development strategies in greater depth than general business programs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You can learn to research and capitalize on market and consumer data and opportunities in this concentration. Marketing and advertising managers earned a [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/advertising-promotions-and-marketing-managers.htm#tab-1″ target=”_blank”]median annual salary of $156,660[/hen-ui-link] as of May 2024.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”organizational-leadership”]11. Organizational Leadership[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You can study the latest leadership theory and practice developments in an [hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-organizational-leadership/”]organizational leadership specialization[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This discipline explores the best methods for building and motivating a cohesive team while managing conflict resolution. This specialization can prepare you to pursue a career in training and development, among other business roles. Top executives were reported to earn a [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/top-executives.htm” target=”_blank”]median annual salary of $105,350[/hen-ui-link] in May 2024.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”supply-chain”]12. Supply Chain and Logistics (Operations Management)[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Supply chain and logistics concentrations explore ways organizations can improve the procurement and delivery of goods and services.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/careers/career-guide/supply-chain-management/”]Supply chain management[/hen-ui-link] studies can cover sourcing, inventory management, forecasting, and sustainability. Logisticians earned a [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/logisticians.htm” target=”_blank”]median annual salary of $80,880[/hen-ui-link] as of May 2024.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What to Consider Before Applying to a Business Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Business is a popular degree, and many online business schools are competing for your enrollment. Make sure to choose the right program for you, one that offers strong student outcomes and affordable tuition.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Accreditation[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Your college or university should hold institutional accreditation with an accrediting body, such as the Higher Learning Commission or the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Institutional accreditation gives you access to financial aid resources and makes your degree much more valuable after graduation.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While programmatic accreditation is not vital, it can signal that your university has invested in its business program. Agencies that oversee business programs specifically include:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aacsb.edu/” target=”_blank”]Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business[/hen-ui-link] (AACSB)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://acbsp.org/” target=”_blank”]Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs[/hen-ui-link] (ACBSP)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://iacbe.org/” target=”_blank”]International Accreditation Council for Business Education[/hen-ui-link] (IACBE)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Ensure Your Concentration Is Offered[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Business degrees can provide a general business education, but most also offer concentration options in areas such as entrepreneurship, finance, human resources, accounting, or international business.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Not every school offers every concentration, so look for universities that offer a series of courses in your specific field of interest.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Admission Requirements[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Public community colleges are usually required to admit every applicant with a high school diploma or GED certificate, but other schools are more selective — sometimes, much more selective. You may need a minimum GPA, a college-track high school curriculum, or a professional background in business for admission. Common application requirements include:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Official transcripts[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Letters of recommendation[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Standardized test scores[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Personal statement or essay[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Resume or CV highlighting experience (graduate level)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]GRE or GMAT scores (graduate level)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can You Do With a Business Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A business degree can provide the foundation for many diverse career paths across virtually all industries. For example, you can pursue work as a management consultant, a marketing manager, or an entrepreneur in industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and technology development.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The table below includes 10 career paths you could pursue with a business degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Business Careers[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]12 Business Careers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Median Annual Salary (2024)[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Ideal Business Degree Program[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Typical Degree Required[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Executive Assistants[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”12 Business Careers”]$74,260[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]Administration (General)[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Business Degree Program”]Associate[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Facilities Managers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”12 Business Careers”]$104,690[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]Management[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Business Degree Program”]Associate[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Accountants[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”12 Business Careers”]$81,680[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]Accounting[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Business Degree Program”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Managers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”12 Business Careers”]$156,660[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]Marketing[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Business Degree Program”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Financial Managers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”12 Business Careers”]$161,700[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]Finance[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Business Degree Program”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Human Resources Specialists[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”12 Business Careers”]$72,910[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]Human Resources[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Business Degree Program”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Logisticians[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”12 Business Careers”]$80,880[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]Supply Chain (Operations Management)[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Business Degree Program”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Management Analysts (Consulting)[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”12 Business Careers”]$101,190[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]Management[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Business Degree Program”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Market Research Analysts[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”12 Business Careers”]$76,950[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]Marketing or Data Analytics[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Business Degree Program”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Top Business Executives[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”12 Business Careers”]$104,990[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]General MBA[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Business Degree Program”]Master’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Economists[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”12 Business Careers”]$115,440[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]Economics[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Business Degree Program”]Master’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Business Professors[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”12 Business Careers”]$97,270[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]Ph.D.[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Ideal Business Degree Program”]Doctorate[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Business Degree Salary[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In business, the more education you have, the more money you can earn. Attaining an MBA or other master’s degree in business can position you for leadership positions that put you into a different payscale entirely.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How Much Does a Business Degree Cost?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/college-finances/paying-for-college/”]cost of a business degree[/hen-ui-link] depends on several factors, including where you live, the prestige of your school, and whether it’s public or private. Universities with national or international reputations typically charge more than schools with less brand recognition, and public institutions are usually cheaper than private schools.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]For the 2022-2023 academic year, [hen-ui-link href=”https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d23/tables/dt23_330.20.asp” target=”_blank”]NCES reported[/hen-ui-link] that public four-year in-state schools had an average sticker price of $9,596 for tuition and fees, public out-of-state institutions quoted an average of $28,297, and private nonprofit schools averaged $35,248. NCES’s most recent postsecondary student aid report provides even greater insight into the cost of business programs by degree level.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Median Annual Tuition Cost of a Business Degree[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Degree Level[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Online Business Programs[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Traditional, On-Campus Business Programs[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Associate[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Degree Level”]$2,239[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Online Business Programs”]$2,207[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Degree Level”]$7,367[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Online Business Programs”]$11,749[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Master’s[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Degree Level”]$8,025[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Online Business Programs”]$13,332[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Doctorate[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Degree Level”]$10,902[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Online Business Programs”]$14,310[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions About Business Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How much can you make with a business degree?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In 2024, [hen-ui-link href=”https://data.bls.gov/oes/#/industry/000000″ target=”_blank”]the BLS reported[/hen-ui-link] that the median annual salary for business professionals was $80,920. However, the highest-paid business careers can almost double that. Marketing managers, for example, bring in an annual median wage of $161,030, and financial managers claim $161,700.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning an MBA or another master’s degree in business can help you land one of these top-paying leadership or technical positions.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What degree is best for consulting?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Although an MBA program focused on consulting may be considered the ideal path for a consulting career, the truth is that many types of business degrees can set you up for success as a consultant. Management consulting firms like Deloitte and Bain hire candidates from a wide range of academic backgrounds.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Business management and finance are always good majors for aspiring consultants; however, degrees in business or leadership with a concentration in consulting or executive management are especially well suited for a consulting career.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is an MBA better than an MS in business?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An MBA may be better recognized than an MS in business, but these two degrees serve different purposes. The MBA primarily suits business professionals with at least three years of experience pursuing higher education to advance their current careers.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The MS in business, by contrast, is often tailored to prospective students working in other fields who want to transition to business careers.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What’s the difference between a BBA and BS in business?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The bachelor of business administration (BBA) and the bachelor of science in business (BS) both offer rigorous academic study of the field, but they differ in many ways.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The BBA provides a comprehensive curriculum covering many of the skills needed for success in the marketplace, while the BS emphasizes the analytical and technical skills required to make data-driven decisions in the 21st-century business landscape.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Why is a business degree useful?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A business degree is a practical, versatile major that can help foster the technical, analytical, and leadership skills you need to succeed in nearly any career. For many undecided majors, business can offer a diverse and in-demand skillset that can help you find a place to land after graduation.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Business majors work in hospitals, public agencies, small businesses, banks, enterprise-level corporations, and universities. They may manage HR departments, oversee accounting teams, or analyze mountains of data.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Discover More College Resources” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1271,1229″][/hen-ui-article-row]