Business Degrees

<h2 id="section---WhatIsABusinessDegree">What Is a Business Degree?</h2> <p>A basic business degree definition is post-secondary education programs that provide students with the knowledge to succeed in business, analytic, and corporate environments. Business degrees can be earned at the associate's, bachelor's, master's, and even doctorate level for certain disciplines. Business degree is a general term, and may refer to majors in areas such as business administration, management, accounting, marketing, finance, advertising, entrepreneurship, business analytics, etc. While these programs do have some varying requirements, they are united by a common focus on leadership, decision-making, business structure, group psychology, and budgeting or handling money. </p> <h3 id="section---HowLongDoesItTakeToGetABusinessDegree">How Long Does It Take to Get a Business Degree?</h3> <p>The length of business degree programs depends heavily on the level of the degree. Consult the chart below to find the duration of study for each level. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><th> Degree Level </th><th> Typical Duration </th><th> Requirements </th><th>Common Degree Names</th></tr> <tr><td> Associate's Degree </td><td> 2 years </td><td> High school diploma </td><td> Associate of Arts/Science in Business Administration, Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration</td></tr> <tr><td> Bachelor's Degree </td><td> 4 years </td><td> High school diploma </td><td> Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Arts/Science in Business Administration</td></tr> <tr><td> Master's Degree </td><td> 2 years </td><td> Bachelor's degree </td><td>Master of Business Administration, Master of Arts/Science in Business</td></tr> <tr><td> Doctorate </td><td> 3-5 years </td><td> Bachelor's or master's degree </td><td> Doctor of Business Administration, Doctor of Philosophy in Business</td></tr> </table><p><br clear="all" /> </p> <h3 id="section---AssociateDegreesInBusiness">Associate Degrees in Business</h3> <p>An associate's degree in business is designed to teach students the basics of business and begin building up the business skills that are desirable to employers. These programs can also take slightly different forms depending on the degree type. An Associate of Arts (AA) in Business tends to take a more conceptual approach, while an Associate of Science (AS) in Business tends to focus more on implementation and practicality. Business majors which may be available at this level include: </p> <ul><li>Accounting </li><li>Business Administration </li><li>Business Management </li><li>Finance </li><li>Hospitality </li><li>Human Resources </li><li>International Business </li><li>Management </li><li>Marketing </li><li>Project Management </li></ul><p>Coursework in these programs may include introductory courses in business, economics, market studies, and accounting, as well as college level math and writing. Since these programs can be more career focused, they work perfectly for those seeking to get into business careers, like administrative assistants, store managers, and sales consultants, as soon as possible. Associate degrees can also be used as a steppingstone to a bachelor's degree, although it is not a prerequisite. </p> <h3 id="section---BachelorSDegreesInBusiness">Bachelor's Degrees in Business</h3> <p>A bachelor's degree in business is one of the most common types of degrees earned and can set graduates up for several different careers. Like associate's degrees, they may be Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS), although the distinction is often minor. You can also find a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, which is hyper focused through business coursework and concentrations. There is a massive variety of majors within the field of business available at the bachelor's level, including: </p> <ul><li>Accounting </li><li>Advertising </li><li>Business Administration </li><li>Business Management </li><li>Finance </li><li>Hospitality </li><li>Human Resources </li><li>International Business </li><li>Logistics </li><li>Marketing </li><li>Project Management </li></ul><p>Coursework in the first years is like that of an associate's degree, but study becomes more focused in the major as you progress through the degree. This degree is perfect for those looking toward management careers, and particularly how it can differ in each field. Holders of bachelor's degrees in business often end up leading small teams or even entire offices, although certain fields, like accounting, may have other credentials they require. Job titles which these degrees might prepare you for depend on the major, but could include sales manager, loan officer, financial analyst, and HR specialist. </p> <h3 id="section---MasterSInBusinessAdministrationMBADegrees">Master's in Business Administration (MBA) Degrees</h3> <p>The most popular type of graduate degree is the Master of Business Administration (MBA), which is a well-respected degree suited for both recent graduates and those further along in their careers. Because of their popularity, MBAs are available in many formats, from part time to accelerated to executive, providing flexibility for working students. Like bachelor's degrees, MBAs have a wide variety of specializations, such as: </p> <ul><li>Accounting </li><li>Business Analytics </li><li>Entrepreneurship </li><li>Finance </li><li>Healthcare Management </li><li>Human Resources </li><li>International Business </li><li>Logistics &amp; Supply Chains </li><li>Management </li><li>Marketing </li><li>Project Management </li><li>Real Estate </li></ul><p>Many schools also have more niche concentrations like digital marketing. Coursework focuses on management and leadership, as well as economics, statistics, and the area of specialization. Students interested in MBAs need a bachelor's degree, though it need not be in business, and often have a few years of work experience. MBAs are most useful to those who hope to climb the corporate ladder and take on greater responsibilities and higher levels of management. Career titles MBA holders might include marketing manager, HR manager, and even chief executive officer (CEO). </p> <h3 id="section---MasterSDegreesInBusiness">Master's Degrees in Business</h3> <p>Master's degrees in business are not limited to MBAs. Those who are already working towards a specific career may be better suited by more narrowly focused degree programs, such as the Master of Accounting, which can be helpful towards becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Other options for a more specialized master's degree in business include: </p> <ul><li>MA/MS in Economics </li><li>Master of Finance (MFin) </li><li>Master of Healthcare Management </li><li>MA/MS in Hospitality Management </li><li>MA/MS in Human Resources Management </li><li>Master of International Business </li><li>Master of Marketing </li><li>Master of Project Management </li></ul><p>While MBAs relate heavily to management training, master's degrees in business are intensely concentrated on one area of business. Coursework is difficult to generalize between these degrees, but often deals with business and ethical challenges specific to that field and in-depth study of relevant topics like marketing analytics or hospitality business law. Like other graduate degrees, a bachelor's is necessary, and it may need to be in the same or similar field, with requirements varying. These degrees can lead to careers like economist, hotel manager, and project manager, depending on the specialty. </p> <h3 id="section---PhDDoctoralDegreesInBusiness">PhD &amp; Doctoral Degrees in Business</h3> <p>Doctorate degrees in business are less common and are typically based around research skills. They may be conventional Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees, which lead to academic careers, or of a more specialized variety, such as the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA). The degrees are considered equivalent, with the DBA distinguished by a greater focus on application of research. Ph.D.in business programs include: </p> <ul><li>Ph.D. in Accounting </li><li>Ph.D. in Economics </li><li>Ph.D. in Finance </li><li>Ph.D. in Hospitality Management </li><li>Ph.D. in Human Resources Management </li><li>Ph.D. in Marketing </li></ul><p>Doctorate programs are based around performing original research, with only limited coursework in the first year or two of the program, like that in a master's program. This original research culminates in the defense of a dissertation, showing the results to a panel of experts. Ph.D.s in business fields are primarily for educators and academics, as well as governmental or think tank researchers. Admission to these programs is often highly competitive, and thus they may only be available to those with exceptional academic records. </p> <h3 id="section---OnlineBusinessDegrees">Online Business Degrees</h3> <p>Due to the popularity of the major, online business degrees are common at most degree levels. Business degrees are a good fit for online study, as they do not typically require in-person laboratory work, and internships are widely available across the country. Additionally, they benefit from the same advantages that other types of online degrees do, such as flexible scheduling, attending class from anywhere, and networking with fellow students from around the globe. </p> <p>An online associate's degree in business is typically structured in a similar manner to traditional associate's programs, with some general studies and an emphasis on the basics of business, qualifying graduates for entry level careers in various business disciplines. Online bachelor's degrees in business are easy to find and can sometimes have more specialization options than in-person programs would. In addition to the other benefits of online study, it is also possible to find accelerated online business programs at this level, enabling students to earn a 4-year degree in as little as 2.5 to 3 years. Online MBA programs have been quite prolific as well, and have similar accelerated options, reducing the time to earn to 1 to 1.5 years. </p> <p>Schools offering online business degrees range from big name traditional universities, such as UNC, to online branches of other schools, like Purdue Global or Penn State World Campus, to the fully online schools advertised on television. While most online programs are designed to be accessible from anywhere, it is worth keeping in mind that online programs through public universities may still have to deal with in-state and out-of-state tuition rates, so finding a good school online that's also nearby geographically may still be beneficial. </p> <h2 id="section---TypesOfBusinessDegrees">Types of Business Degrees</h2> <p>There are many different types of business degree, each focusing on different areas of the business world. The courses taken and careers available can differ between types, and they may be better suited towards different types of people. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><th> Degree Concentration </th><th> Good Candidates </th><th> Common Courses </th><th> Possible Careers</th></tr> <tr><td> Business Management </td><td> Leaders, good communicators </td><td> Organizational psychology, management communication </td><td> Office manager, management consultant</td></tr> <tr><td> Business Administration </td><td> Entrepreneurs, experienced professionals </td><td> Ethics, strategic management </td><td> CEO, departmental manager</td></tr> <tr><td> Finance </td><td> Skilled with math, enjoys handling money </td><td> Corporate finance, financial accounting </td><td> Financial analyst, financial advisor</td></tr> <tr><td> Marketing </td><td> Creative, data-minded </td><td> Consumer analysis, product development </td><td> Market research analyst, marketing manager</td></tr> <tr><td> Human Resources (HR) </td><td> Social people, good communicators </td><td> Conflict mediation, employee relations </td><td> HR manager, HR analyst</td></tr> <tr><td> Project Management </td><td> Enjoy change, good time management </td><td> Agile management, project planning </td><td> Project manager, project coordinator</td></tr> <tr><td> Hospitality </td><td> Personable, attentive </td><td> Economics of hospitality, service management </td><td> Hotel manager, restaurant manager</td></tr> <tr><td> Accounting </td><td> Detail oriented, skilled with math </td><td> Introductory accounting, spreadsheet modeling </td><td> Corporate accountant, public accountant</td></tr> <tr><td> International Business </td><td> Appreciate diversity, enjoy travel </td><td> International finance, international business law </td><td> Multinational manager, international sales director</td></tr> </table><h2 id="section---AccreditationForBusinessDegrees">Accreditation for Business Degrees</h2> <p>Universities and colleges must be accredited by one of the federal governments recognized accrediting organizations, which evaluate educational programs to ensure quality. This is referred to as institutional accreditation and is necessary to operate a school of higher education. Institutional accreditation can come from national accrediting agencies or regional accrediting agencies, which are older and more focused on non-profit institutions. Accreditation of this type covers all programs offered by the school. </p> <p>There are also accreditation agencies for specific majors, including business schools, which are called specialized or programmatic accreditation. The purpose of these is to ensure that not only is the college or university qualified to provide an education, but that the education in the degree is relevant and desirable to the related industries. Business school accreditation is handled by three major organizations in the United States: The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), and the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE). All three operate globally and accredit programs in business at various degree levels. </p> <p>While all three organizations are recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, there are a few differences between them; the ACBSP is the only one of the three which accredits associate degree programs in business, for example. Additionally, AACSB accredits both programs and institutions while ACBSP only accredits business programs. The accreditation process is essentially a form of peer review, in which the school's educational program, classes, course structure, and material are all considered as part of the evaluation of the overall quality of the program. The process for recognition can be lengthy and require several iterations of review before being approved. Schools are also evaluated every few years to ensure that the quality of the program remains equal to or has improved from when it started. </p> <h2 id="section---The49BestBusinessDegrees20202021SchoolYear">The 49 Best Business Degrees (2020-2021 School Year)</h2> <p>To help students determine which schools offer the best business programs, Learn.org's team did the research and compiled a list of the top 49 in the United States. This list was developed after looking at information like the degrees offered, networking and experience opportunities available, and information from the US Department of Education. Every school highlighted below would make an excellent choice for someone looking to earn a business degree. </p> <h3 id="section---1.NorthwoodUniversity">1. Northwood University</h3> <p>Some of the programs offered at Northwood University include not only a Master of Business Administration but an outstanding 27 Bachelor of Business Administration degree programs with majors in areas like franchising management, entrepreneurship, insurance risk management, and economics. Students looking to further their educational experience can join student organizations like the American Marketing Association, Business Professionals of America, and the Delta Sigma Pi - Business Fraternity. Graduates of business programs at this school in Midland, Michigan, have moved on to land great jobs as CEOs, marketing specialists, and district managers at renowned organizations like General Motors Company, Elite Aviation LLC, and even FourS Consulting SL in Spain. </p> <h3 id="section---2.BentleyUniversity">2. Bentley University</h3> <p>Bentley University in Waltham, Massachusetts is a wonderful school for someone looking to earn a business degree like a Master's in Business Analytics, Master of Business Administration, or a dual Bachelor of Science/Master of Science in Finance. All business programs offered here are fantastic, but students who graduated with a major in business economics from this school have had an impressive 100% rate of success finding careers in their field. Students in this and other business programs at this school decidedly benefit from access to top-notch facilities like the Accounting Center for Electronic Learning and Business Management and the opportunity to find tutors through the Eco-Fi-State Learning Center. </p> <h3 id="section---3.BryantUniversity">3. Bryant University</h3> <p>The College of Business at Bryant University, located in Smithfield, Rhode Island, understands the significance of real-world experiences, so it offers students the chance to take part in study abroad opportunities in international business in places like Barcelona and Chile. This school has six excellent program options, a sample of which include a Certificate of Graduate Study in Business Analytics, Bachelor of Science in International Business, and a Master of Professional Accountancy. Those interested in extracurricular activities to further bolster their business acumen can join the Collegiate Entrepreneurs' Organization, or they can take advantage of the Archway Investment Fund and gain insightful career experience. </p> <h3 id="section---4.BabsonCollege">4. Babson College</h3> <p>Students attending Babson College can earn top-notch degrees like a Master of Science in Management in Entrepreneurial Leadership, Certificate in Advanced Management, or a Bachelor of Science in Finance. Business students at this school in Babson Park, Massachusetts have the chance to study abroad where they can take multiple classes that count towards earning their degree. Business-focused student organizations available to those enrolled here include the Babson Association of Women MBAs, Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting, and the Babson Black MBA group, all of which can provide wonderful opportunities for networking and peer support. </p> <h3 id="section---5.NicholsCollege">5. Nichols College</h3> <p>Offering 14 Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) degrees including one in human resource management and another in sports management as well as a Master of Business Administration, Nichols College is a top option for those interested in the field of business. Business students have the opportunity to take a variety of elective courses to tailor their degree, a few of which include Civil Rights in America, Intercultural Communication, and Introduction to Gender and Diversity Studies. Not only can students take unique courses at this school, located in Dudley, Massachusetts, they also have opportunities to complete impressive internship experiences at great companies like Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Hudson RPM Distributors, and even Target. </p> <h3 id="section---6.CUNYBernardM.BaruchCollege">6. CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College</h3> <p>Located in New York, New York, the Zicklin School of Business at this college helps to provide students with experiential learning opportunities through business competitions, meeting company executives on campus, and taking part in speaker forums. Those interested in the field of business have the freedom to choose between a variety of excellent degree programs including 18 Bachelor of Business Administration programs, like the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Industrial/Organizational Psychology and BBA in Computer Information Systems, along with a PhD in Management and a Master of Science in Financial Risk Management. CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College makes it a priority to help their business students be well prepared for their future careers with help from resources like the Career Center, and they even help students foster relationships with potential future employers. </p> <h3 id="section---7.ThomasMoreUniversity">7. Thomas More University</h3> <p>Those interested in earning a business degree can do so at the College of Business at Thomas More University, and they offer degrees like a Master of Business Administration, Bachelor of Arts in Business, and a Bachelor of Arts in Sports and Entertainment Marketing. Based out of Crestview Hills, Kentucky, this college offers small class sizes, making it easier to access and form working relationships with professors. Students can gain first-hand experience through the unique Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA), which enables them to prepare tax returns for people in need. Due in part to experience like this, graduates from this school have found careers at top companies like General Electric, DBL Law, and VonLehman, and students. </p> <h3 id="section---8.WebsterUniversity">8. Webster University</h3> <p>Located in the town of St. Louis, Missouri, Webster University has a School of Business and Technology that works with an impressive system of schools all around the world in countries including Asia, Africa, and Europe to ensure it fully comprehends international business. Just as the school makes it a priority to reach out to other schools for cooperation and development, business students enrolled here have the opportunity to interact with other business-minded peers in groups like the Big Data Analysis Association, Emerging Entrepreneurs group, Webster Economic Association, and the Alpha Lambda Pi Accounting Club. Some of the wide array of specialized degrees students can pursue include a Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics, dual Bachelor of Science in Accounting/Master of Science in Finance, Master of Science in Forensic Accounting, and a Doctor of Management. </p> <h3 id="section---9.GoldeyBeacomCollege">9. Goldey-Beacom College</h3> <p>Some of the degrees offered at Goldey-Beacom College in Wilmington, Delaware include a Doctor of Business Administration, Master of Business Administration in Finance, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Marketing Management. In order to give students more freedom when it comes to choosing classes and tailoring their degree, this school allows students to choose from elective courses in areas like sociology, communication, psychology, and English. To further create a well-rounded college experience, students can join and take part in the Entrepreneurship Club, Institute of Management Accountants - Accounting Club, or the Society for Human Resource Management. As part of its commitment to help prepare students for future careers, this school boasts that their business programs emphasize management skills, conceptual skills, and interpersonal skills. </p> <h3 id="section---10.LakelandUniversity">10. Lakeland University</h3> <p>Students at Lakeland University can earn a variety of impressive degrees ranging from a Master of Business Administration to a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration. Business administration students have the chance to gain hands-on experience through impressive internships at businesses like the Kohler Company, Kwik Trip, Inc., and Sargento Foods. While earning between 12 and 18 months of work experience, students in a business program at this school in Plymouth, Wisconsin, may even be paid for their time and receive scholarships to help lower the cost of their tuition! </p> <h3 id="section---11.DavenportUniversity">11. Davenport University</h3> <p>The College of Business at Davenport University, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, boasts that they offer students access to top quality staff, interactive classrooms, and workstations that are modeled after the business work environment. Once enrolled, students can earn amazing degrees like an Associates in Business Administration, Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Industrial Production Management, BBA in Management, and a Master of Business Administration. Students here can join student clubs and organizations like the American Marketing Association, Business Professionals of America, Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization, and Sigma Beta Delta honor society. </p> <h3 id="section---12.SaintJosephSUniversity">12. Saint Joseph's University</h3> <p>Students in a business program at Saint Joseph's University have the chance to get invaluable first-hand experience in a variety of ways including co-ops, internships, and service learning opportunities. Ninety-two percent of the students that complete co-ops have said their experience aided them in finding a job after graduation. The School of Business at this Philadelphia, Pennsylvania school offers magnificent programs including a Master of Science in Business Intelligence and Analytics, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Finance, and a Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business. </p> <h3 id="section---13.BakerUniversity">13. Baker University</h3> <p>Baker University is a great option for students looking for an amazing business school, as the business students here have the opportunity to take part in impressive internships with organizations like federal agencies, professional sports teams, and national accounting firms. Some of the programs offered here include a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership, Bachelor of Science in Accounting, and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Leadership. This school in Baldwin City, Kansas, boasts small class sizes, and remarkably, business students here received scores in the top 96th percentile when taking the ETS exam. With that number in mind, it's not surprising that an impressive 98.6% of business graduates found full-time jobs within 6 months of graduation. </p> <h3 id="section---14.DickinsonStateUniversity">14. Dickinson State University</h3> <p>Those attending Dickinson State University can enroll at the remarkable School of Business and Entrepreneurship to earn one of their amazing business degrees, including a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance, Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Associate of Applied Science in Administration, a Master of Entrepreneurship, and more. Every year, this school has students score in the top 10% when it comes to taking the Peregrine exam, proving that students are well prepared for their futures. Students at this school in Dickinson, North Dakota are provided with great flexibility and options when it comes to personalizing their learning experience, through the availability of completely online undergraduate programs and taking classes at the satellite campus in Bismarck. </p> <h3 id="section---15.SienaCollege">15. Siena College</h3> <p>Siena College in Loudonville, New York, is a great choice for students interested in the field of business, as it has many great programs including a Bachelor of Science in Management, Master of Science in Accounting, and a Master of Business Administration. The School of Business here provides students with access to facilities like the Hickey Financial Technology Center, Alonge Accounting Lab, and the Raub Trading Room. Not only can students benefit from learning in small classes in these amazing facilities, but they also have opportunities to conduct research, attend business conferences, publish their own papers, and take part in internships all before graduation. Siena College also offers an innovative Business Major through which students can customize their learning by choosing their own concentrations and even have the opportunity to earn a bachelor's degree and MBA in just four years. </p> <h3 id="section---16.RutgersUniversityNewark">16. Rutgers University-Newark</h3> <p>Rutgers University in Newark, New Jersey, provides students with the opportunity to earn some fantastic degrees, like a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics and Information Technology, Master of Accountancy in Taxation, PhD in Management, and more. The school has a 91% job placement rate for undergraduate students, which is evidence of how well it prepares its graduates for the workforce. To help create a top educational experience, the school has 19 different research centers 7 outreach programs just for business students, designed to enhance student education and provide individual research opportunities in each student's field. </p> <h3 id="section---17.MaloneUniversity">17. Malone University</h3> <p>Individuals looking to earn a top-quality degree can earn one of many business degrees like a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, Bachelor of Arts in Finance, Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership, and more from Malone University in Canton, Ohio. Students at the School of Business and Leadership can gain first-hand experience at a variety of places like local small businesses, churches, non-profit organizations, and corporations. Those interested in taking their learning outside of the classroom can join the Enactus team, which allows students the chance to practice using their knowledge and skills with the leaders of Fortune 500 companies. </p> <h3 id="section---18.PennsylvaniaStateUniversityPennStateErieBehrendCollege">18. Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College</h3> <p>The Black School of Business at this university in Erie, Pennsylvania, offers numerous wonderful program options to earn degrees including a Bachelor of Science in Business Economics, Master of Project Management, and a unique Master of Manufacturing Management. Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College allows their business students to experience once-in-a-lifetime study abroad options where they can travel and learn through different formats like embedded programs, summer programs, semester-long programs, year-long programs, and even international internships. Those enrolled here also have the chance to take part in Innovation through Collaboration Projects, where students will get to work alongside both their peers and expert faculty members to create solutions to problems in business. </p> <h3 id="section---19.IonaCollege">19. Iona College</h3> <p>Those wanting to earn an excellent business degree can do so from the Iona College's LaPenta School of Business, which offers small class sizes with a fantastic 15-to-1 student-faculty ratio that allows students great access to instructors. Business students get the choice to study abroad in places like Greece, Spain, Italy, and England to better develop their international appreciation and make them better businesspeople. Some of the programs offered at this school in New Rochelle, New York include a Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Public Accounting, and a Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business. </p> <h3 id="section---20.LynnUniversity">20. Lynn University</h3> <p>Located in Boca Raton, Florida, the exceptional College of Business and Management at Lynn University allows students the opportunity to earn magnificent degrees like an Associate of Arts in Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Event Management, and a Master of Business Administration in Hospitality Management. The school offers great low tuition rates, as an online undergraduate student studying business may spend only around $9,000 per year, making a quality education more accessible. In addition to the great programs offered, students interested in starting their own businesses can join the Collegiate Entrepreneur's Organization, where they may receive support and advice. </p> <h3 id="section---21.UniversityOfTheIncarnateWord">21. University of the Incarnate Word</h3> <p>The School of Business and Administration at the University of the Incarnate Word has an excellent 7-to-1 ratio for graduate students to faculty members, which allows for a more personalized and supported education. This school offers business programs including a Master of Health Administration, Bachelor of Business Administration with the option of 10 different concentration areas, and even ten minor options in fields like financial planning and sport management. To really help business students at this school in San Antonio, Texas achieve success, those enrolled can take advantage of a great career readiness program called Cardinal Career Readiness. </p> <h3 id="section---22.LeMoyneCollege">22. Le Moyne College</h3> <p>Le Moyne College in Syracuse, New York, is home to the Madden School of Business which has a 98% success rate for students finding employment after graduation. Business students enrolled here have the opportunity to study abroad in amazing locations like Poland and Beijing, providing them with an unforgettable educational experience. A variety of top programs are offered here, a few of which are a Master of Science in Information Systems, Bachelor of Science in Management and Leadership, and minors in entrepreneurship and business administration. </p> <h3 id="section---23.MountMercyUniversity">23. Mount Mercy University</h3> <p>Mount Mercy University has a selection of noteworthy degree programs like an accelerated Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing, Master of Strategic Leadership, Master of Business Administration. Previous graduates have moved on to successful positions as CEOs, Business Owners, Chief Financial Officers, and Directors of Financial Aid. Some of the distinguished companies that currently employ past graduates include John Deere, Toyota North America, Verizon, and Wells Fargo, and some students enrolling in business programs at this school in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, can even receive a ten percent discount on their tuition! </p> <h3 id="section---24.AlbertusMagnusCollege">24. Albertus Magnus College</h3> <p>Some of the great business degrees available for students to earn at Albertus Magnus College include a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, and a Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management. This college in New Haven, Connecticut, boasts small class sizes, career counseling, and internship experiences for business students. To round out an exceptional college experience, students can join the Business Club to learn more about the functions of a business and proper business practices. </p> <h3 id="section---25.JohnCarrollUniversity">25. John Carroll University</h3> <p>Those attending this school in University Heights, Ohio, can enroll in programs at the Boler College of Business, which has an impressive CPA exam pass rate that is over 15% higher than the national average. Amazing programs are offered here, a selection of which includes a Bachelor of Science in Financial Planning and Wealth Management, Bachelor of Science in Marketing, and a Master of Science in Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Graduate students at the Boler College of Business at John Carroll University will have the opportunity to complete a great education at a low cost with the help of fantastic scholarship opportunities. Impressive and well-known companies that employ past graduates include Good Year, Key Bank, Sherwin Williams, and Fidelity Investments. </p> <h3 id="section---26.LouisianaStateUniversityShreveport">26. Louisiana State University-Shreveport</h3> <p>Louisiana State University in Shreveport offers an array of top-notch program options for students looking to enter into the field of business including a Bachelor of Science in General Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Marketing, and a Master of Health Administration. Business students engage in classes with knowledgeable faculty, of which nearly 95% hold a doctoral degree in their field, making them a great source of knowledge for students. With a business degree from this university, students can go on to become Certified Financial Planners, Certified Fraud Examiners, Certified Managerial Accountant, and more. Students don't have to worry about graduating with too much debt, as the school also offers fantastic tuition prices, with their online undergraduate tuition at only $284 per credit. </p> <h3 id="section---27.JohnBrownUniversity">27. John Brown University</h3> <p>Offering programs like a Master of Business Administration in Market Research and Consumer Insight, Master of Business Administration in Cybersecurity, Bachelor of Business Administration, and more, John Brown University is a fantastic option for students looking to earn a respectable business education. Students attending this school in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, may even have a chance to work with major companies like Clorox, Walmart, and Tyson on consulting projects. Individuals looking to add something extra to their resume also have the freedom to join the ENACTUS Club, which is geared toward helping students learn to create solutions to a variety of different business-related issues. </p> <h3 id="section---28.BryanCollegeDayton">28. Bryan College-Dayton</h3> <p>Bryan College in Dayton, Ohio provides students with access to extra-curricular activities and organizations like the Sigma Beta Delta business honor society and the ENACTUS club. Top-notch faculty teach the courses necessary to earn a number of different degrees like a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Associate of Science in Business, and a Master of Business Administration. Impressively, all undergraduate business students complete an internship prior to graduation, with some of the well-known companies students have interned with in the past including Mercedes Benz, Sam's Club, and First Bank. </p> <h3 id="section---29.UniversityOfRedlands">29. University of Redlands</h3> <p>95% of students say that they would refer others to the business school at this university in Redlands, California, which is not surprising considering nine out of ten former students said that they were pleased with the education they received here. The University of Redlands offers students the opportunity to earn degrees like a Master of Science in Business Analytics, Bachelor of Science in Management, and a Bachelor of Science in Business. Business students can also broaden their business horizons by taking advantage of the fantastic study abroad opportunities offered by the school with destinations like Panama, Paris, and Italy. </p> <h3 id="section---30.SuffolkUniversity">30. Suffolk University</h3> <p>Students who want to earn a distinguished degree from Suffolk University can choose from programs like a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Corporate Accounting and Finance, Master of Business Administration in Accounting Principles, or a Master of Science in Business Administration in Business Analytics. The school also offers unique, specialized programs geared toward attorneys, including the Accelerated MBA for Attorneys and the Accelerated Master of Science in Taxation for Attorneys. With small class sizes that make access to professors easier, this school in Boston, Massachusetts would make a great choice for those interested in business. Students obviously benefit from this personalized education, as an incredible 90% of undergraduate students and 93% of graduate students have found jobs within six months of graduation from the Sawyer Business School. </p> <h3 id="section---31.MetropolitanCollegeOfNewYork">31. Metropolitan College of New York</h3> <p>Located in New York City, the Metropolitan College of New York's School for Business has an array of degree programs including an Associate of Science in Business, Bachelor of Business Administration, and a Master of Business Administration in Media Management. Boasting that their previous graduates have become entrepreneurs and advanced to leading corporations, this school provides students with the opportunity to complete a Constructive Action project that allows them to create and put into place a real business plan, then study and analyze the real-world results. Additionally, those enrolled in a business program can study abroad to accumulate incredible experiences and comprehension in places like Paris, Zurich, London, and Frankfurt. </p> <h3 id="section---32.OlivetCollege">32. Olivet College</h3> <p>Olivet College provides business students with the opportunity to tailor their education the way they want with elective courses like Risk Financing, Ethics and Leadership, and Employee Benefits. Based in the town of Olivet, Michigan, this college gives students the opportunity to earn incredible degrees like a Master of Business Administration in Insurance, Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, and a Bachelor of Arts in Business Analysis in Insurance. Before graduation, students get to complete internships for a minimum of three credits, and can join groups like the Accounting Student Organization that can provide students with incredible service experiences and the opportunity for professional development. </p> <h3 id="section---33.FranklinUniversity">33. Franklin University</h3> <p>Students can take advantage of Franklin University's flexibility by completing the classes needed for all the Ross College of Business degrees online. A few of these degrees include an Associate of Science in Forensic Accounting, Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship, Master of Science in Human Resources Management, and a Doctor of Business Administration. This university is proud of its transfer policy that allows students to transfer up to 94 credits toward their undergraduate degrees so they can finish their degree faster, and of their faculty that have experience working in the business industry. Students at this school in Columbus, Ohio can take part in simulation experiences that will help to prepare them for future careers. </p> <h3 id="section---34.RollinsCollege">34. Rollins College</h3> <p>A selection of degrees is available to students at this school in Winter Park, Florida, ranging from a Bachelor of Arts in International Business to an Executive Master of Business Administration. As part of their time in the business programs, students enrolled here can experience incredible opportunities to travel, study, and possibly complete internships in foreign countries like Germany, France, Spain, and India. In the past, students at Rollins College have even completed internships at well-known and established companies such as Target, Boeing, and GE Healthcare. </p> <h3 id="section---35.FashionInstituteOfTechnology">35. Fashion Institute of Technology</h3> <p>The Jay and Patty Baker School of Business and Technology has retention rates of 85-100% for all of its ten bachelor's business programs, including the Bachelor of Science (BS) in Direct and Interactive Marketing, BS in Entrepreneurship, and the unique BS in Cosmetics &amp; Fragrance Marketing. The Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City not only offers the bachelor's degree programs previously mentioned, but also four associate degrees, including the Associate of Applied Science in Advertising and Marketing Communications. To lower the cost of these exceptional programs, students are free to apply for the Jay and Patty Baker Endowed Scholarships, which are available to business students in any year of study. </p> <h3 id="section---36.HussonUniversity">36. Husson University</h3> <p>Those enrolled at the College of Business at Husson University can join one of the six honor societies available including the Sigma Nu Tau entrepreneurship honor society and the Sigma Beta Delta accounting and business honor society. Exceptional programs at this school in Bangor, Maine, include a Master of Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Accounting, and a five-year dual Bachelor of Science in Accounting/Master of Business Administration. This school prepares students for the real world well through paid internships, and this can be seen in the 95% of the accounting students over the past five years that have had success in finding jobs in their field of study. </p> <h3 id="section---37.UniversityOfCharleston">37. University of Charleston</h3> <p>Business students at the University of Charleston have the chance to interact with CFOs and CEOs from a variety of industries as they come to the campus to mentor students, speak to groups, and even supervise experiential learning opportunities. Students wanting to earn a top-quality education can do so through any of this school's programs including the Master of Science in Strategic Leadership, Doctor of Executive Leadership, Associate of Science in Frontline Leadership, or the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Business Analytics. Almost all of the exemplary faculty members at the School of Business and Leadership in Charleston, West Virginia, hold a terminal degree, making them a great resource and wealth of information for students. </p> <h3 id="section---38.UniversityOfSiouxFalls">38. University of Sioux Falls</h3> <p>The University of Sioux Falls in South Dakota offers programs like a Bachelor of Arts in Sports Management, Associate of Arts in Social Media Marketing, and a Master of Business Administration in Organizational Leadership. Individuals looking for a way to gain more experience outside of the classroom can join student organizations like the Coo Tycoons Investment Club, Phi Beta Lambda, and the Sigma Alpha Pi National Society of Leadership and Success. Those enrolled here will also have access to the IdeaLab, which is designated for business students to help them learn through hands-on experiences and interact with other individuals in the same field. </p> <h3 id="section---39.RockhurstUniversity">39. Rockhurst University</h3> <p>Located in Kansas City, Missouri, this university provides options for students to earn degrees like a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership, Executive Master of Business Administration, or a Bachelor of Science in Analytics and Technology. Previous students have found jobs at incredible companies like Mutual of Omaha, Barkley, Morgan Stanley, and Truman Medical Centers. Before those enrolled here graduate, they will have the opportunity to complete internships, collaborate with local businesses, and network with potential employers to gain an array of experience. </p> <h3 id="section---40.LakeErieCollege">40. Lake Erie College</h3> <p>Offering students the opportunity to earn a Master of Business Administration, a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, or one of many other degrees, this is a great school for students hoping to enter into the field of business. Based in Painesville, Ohio, this college houses a School of Business that prepares students for their careers through excellent internships. The Lake Erie College School of Business has an amazing 100% graduation rate for programs including the Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship, BS in Human Resource Management, and BS in International Business. </p> <h3 id="section---41.FairfieldUniversity">41. Fairfield University</h3> <p>Fairfield University provides excellent possibilities for students looking for a business education through programs like those where they can earn a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics, Bachelor of Economics or even a dual Bachelor of Science/Master of Science in Marketing. Business students at this university in Fairfield, Connecticut, can tailor their degrees with three credits of worth of business electives and 12 credits from free electives that have no restrictions. Exceptional after-school activities offered here include the Accounting Club, Economics Club, and the Entrepreneurship Club, all of which will help students gain more experience in their field. This school also boasts that their business students will have the opportunity to learn through computer simulations, problem solving exercises with a group, and individual casework. </p> <h3 id="section---42.CitadelMilitaryCollegeOfSouthCarolina">42. Citadel Military College of South Carolina</h3> <p>The Citadel Military College of South Carolina offers programs to earn a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) in Supply Chain Management, BSBA in Finance, Master of Business Administration, and more. Charleston, South Carolina, is home to this college and their Tommy and Victoria Baker School of Business which offers opportunities to join great business-oriented organizations like the Citadel Accounting Club, the Citadel Financial Management Club, and the Baker School of Business Coaching Program. Business students can experience once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to study abroad, or even take part in a Semester at Sea program and travel to multiple different countries. </p> <h3 id="section---43.UniversityOfLaVerne">43. University of La Verne</h3> <p>The College of Business and Public Management at the University of La Verne offers those enrolled access to the Center for Career and Professional Development, the Small Business Development Center, and the Enactus non-profit group. In addition to the classes they need to earn the degree of their choice, students also receive etiquette training, help preparing for job interviews, and experience creating a business! Some of the programs available at this school in La Verne, California, include a Bachelor of Science in International Business and Language, a Bachelor of Science in E-Commerce, a Master of Science in Data Analytics, and a Doctor of Public Administration. </p> <h3 id="section---44.WoodburyUniversity">44. Woodbury University</h3> <p>Woodbury University based in Burbank, California, has a variety of degree options for those interested in the field of business, some of which include a Bachelor of Business Administration in Fashion Marketing, a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management, and a Master of Business Administration. Graduate students will have the chance to apply for fantastic Merit Scholarships that can amount up to an exciting $18,000. The university also offers help to students that are looking for internships or jobs through their online job board, and students even have the chance to take part in field experiences and interact with leaders in the marketing field. </p> <h3 id="section---45.BelmontAbbeyCollege">45. Belmont Abbey College</h3> <p>Students at Belmont Abbey College can earn degrees like a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting, Bachelor of Arts in Business Management, and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics. Previous students from this college in Belmont, North Carolina have gained valuable experience through internships at major companies like Lincoln Financial Securities and CBS radio. Those looking for another way to add credentials to their resumes can join the Phi Beta Lambda, which was created to help students become leaders in the business industry. </p> <h3 id="section---46.ProvidenceCollege">46. Providence College</h3> <p>Providence College in Providence, Rhode Island, can choose to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Business Economics, a Master of Business Administration (MBA), or any of the other fantastic business degrees. MBA students have the option to take part in the unique Go Global! Program where they can travel to places like Barcelona or London to complete their elective coursework. While students are on campus, though, they can benefit from the superb faculty at the top of their field, many holding doctoral degrees and have experience working in the fields that they teach. </p> <h3 id="section---47.UniversityOfMinnesotaCrookston">47. University of Minnesota-Crookston</h3> <p>Those interested in business can attend the University of Minnesota in Crookston to earn degrees like a Bachelor of Science in Finance, Bachelor of Science in Management, or a Bachelor of Science in International Business. Business students can become involved outside of the classroom by joining groups like the Accounting and Finance Society, attending the Distinguished Speaker Series, or taking part in the Harvard Global Case Competition. The school boasts that when it comes to internships, students will have opportunities to work in places ranging from small companies to Fortune 500 businesses. </p> <h3 id="section---48.ShippensburgUniversityOfPennsylvania">48. Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania</h3> <p>Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania would make an excellent choice for students looking for a great business college, as this school's devotion to success can be seen in the previous students that have moved on to achieve great jobs as HR representatives, logistics coordinators, and financial managers and top companies like Target, Walmart, and PPG Industries. Roughly 95% of students said that they were happy with the education that they received in programs including the Master of Business Administration in Finance, Doctorate of Business Administration, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Entrepreneurship. An incredible 95.5% of students that graduated from this school in the town of Shippensburg found a full-time job within 6 months of earning their degree. </p> <h3 id="section---49.JohnsonWalesUniversityProvidence">49. Johnson &amp; Wales University-Providence</h3> <p>The town of Providence, Rhode Island, is home to Johnson &amp; Wales University, whose excellent College of Business offers students the valuable opportunity to gain first-hand experience through both projects and internships. There are many choices available here for those looking to earn a business degree, including a Master of Science in Human Resource Management, Bachelor of Science in Cannabis Entrepreneurship, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in International Business. As part of the school's emphasis on freedom to tailor degrees, students can complete their free elective credits through Directed Experiential Education experiences, study abroad opportunities, minor courses, or internships. </p> <h2 id="section---TypesOfBusinessCertifications">Types of Business Certifications</h2> <p>Another option when trying to advance a business career is to obtain certifications in addition to a degree. Certifications can make you more appealing to employers, raise your salary, or even open new career paths. There are several business certifications programs for each field within the realm of business, offered by different organizations. One of the most well-known is the Certified Public Accountant (CPA), which provides a license to offer accounting services to the public. Becoming a CPA requires at least a bachelor's degree, and in some states a master's, as well as experience and passage of a certification exam. Other common certifications include: </p> <p>&bull; Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) from the Project Management Institute (PMI) </p> <p>&bull; Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) from the American Production and Inventory Control Society </p> <p>&bull; Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) from the IIBA </p> <p>Certification exams are typically the main requirement to receive certification, but the process may also involve certain courses and training. Certifications must also be maintained, normally by completing continuing education requirements every few years. </p> <p>Certifications may also exist at different levels, to better reflect a worker's experience. A business analyst certification from the International Institute for Business Analysis (IIBA), for example, can be obtained at three levels: the Entry Certificate in Business Analysis for those just starting out, the Certification of Capability in Business Analysis for those with 2-3 years of experience, and the Certified Business Analysis Professional, for those with 5 or more years of experience. Other certifications, like the business intelligence certification known as the Certified Business Intelligence Professional, may have different levels within the same credential. Depending on your score on the certification exam, you may be regarded as an associate/practitioner or as having mastery, which may be noted at the end of the credential. </p> <h2 id="section---WhatCanYouDoWithABusinessDegree">What Can You Do With a Business Degree?</h2> <p>There are hundreds of jobs which a business degree can prepare you for, especially when considering the specializations within business. Some common jobs for the most frequent majors are listed below. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><th> Careers </th><th> Job Description </th><th> Requirements </th><th> Median Annual Salary </th><th> Job Growth (2018-2028)</th></tr> <tr><td> Sales manager </td><td> Organize and direct sales representatives </td><td> Bachelor's degree, sales experience </td><td> $126,640* </td><td> 5%</td></tr> <tr><td> Training and development manager </td><td> Supervise training programs and handle budgeting </td><td> Bachelor's degree, training experience </td><td> $113,350* </td><td> 8%</td></tr> <tr><td> Financial analyst </td><td> Study economic data and make investment recommendations </td><td> Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, etc. </td><td> $85,660* </td><td> 6%</td></tr> <tr><td> Advertising, promotions and marketing managers </td><td> Develop plans and strategies to promote products </td><td> Bachelor's degree, sales or marketing experience </td><td> $135,900* </td><td> 8%</td></tr> <tr><td> Human resources (HR) manager </td><td> Responsible for hiring new employees and interacting with workers </td><td> Bachelor's degree, HR or management experience </td><td> $116,720* </td><td> 7%</td></tr> <tr><td> Project manager </td><td> Run designated, narrow scope projects from start to completion </td><td> Bachelor's degree, experience in project's field </td><td> $76,683** </td><td> 6% (all business operations specialists)</td></tr> <tr><td> Lodging manager </td><td> Ensure the needs of guests at hotels, etc. are met </td><td> Bachelor's degree in hospitality or significant hospitality experience </td><td> $54,430* </td><td> 1%</td></tr> <tr><td> Accountant </td><td> Accurately prepare and maintain financial records </td><td> Bachelor's degree, accounting or finance </td><td> $71,550* (all accountants and auditors) </td><td> 6% (all accountants and auditors)</td></tr> <tr><td> International Management Consultant </td><td> Studies organizations and finds areas to improve in other countries where the business operates </td><td> Bachelor's degree, experience in business's field </td><td> $85,260 </td><td> 14%</td></tr> </table><p><i>*Statistics from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, **Salary.com</i></p>