Business Administration Degree Jobs: Careers to Explore
Published on: February 4, 2022
A business administration degree opens the door to a vast range of career opportunities across multiple industries. From entry-level positions to executive roles, the skills gained in management, finance, project management, marketing and operations are highly sought-after by employers.
No matter if you hold an associate, bachelor’s or master’s degree, the versatility of a business administration education allows graduates to pursue various paths in corporate, non-profit and entrepreneurial settings:
- For those with an associate degree, roles such as administrative assistant or sales associate are common starting points that often lead to managerial positions with experience.
- Graduates holding a bachelor’s degree in business administration can explore careers in marketing management, human resources and financial analysis.
- At the master’s level, positions like financial manager or operations director offer higher earning potential.
Read on to explore more about business administration degree jobs and the key skills needed.
Why Pursue a Business Administration Degree?
A business administration degree provides a solid foundation in essential business principles, equipping graduates with skills for success in a variety of fields. Regardless of whether you aim to work in finance, project management, marketing, human resources or management, this degree offers the flexibility to explore numerous career paths.
Additionally, the analytical, leadership and problem-solving abilities gained through this education are highly transferable, making graduates more adaptable in a rapidly changing job market. Pursuing a business administration degree also opens doors to higher earning potential and advancement opportunities, especially for those who choose to pursue advanced degrees like a Master of Business Administration (MBA).
Popular Business Administration Concentrations
Many business administration programs offer concentrations that allow students to specialize in specific areas, thereby tailoring their education to align with their career goals. Below are some popular concentrations and what they entail:
Accounting
A concentration in accounting focuses on the principles of financial reporting, auditing and tax preparation. This path prepares students for roles such as accountant, auditor or financial analyst, with a median annual salary of around $79,880 as of 2023, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). It also sets the foundation for pursuing certification as a certified public accountant (CPA).
Finance
Finance concentrations emphasize financial management, investment strategies and risk analysis. Graduates frequently work as financial managers, analysts or advisors, and finance professionals earn a median salary of $156,100 per year in managerial roles. The curriculum equips students with skills in corporate finance, portfolio management and financial planning.
Communication
This concentration develops skills in business communication, public relations and organizational messaging. Professionals in communication roles work to improve internal and external business communications. Public relations specialists, for instance, earn a median salary of $66,750. This specialization is ideal for those interested in roles in marketing communications, corporate communications or media relations.
Law
A business law concentration covers legal principles relevant to business operations, including contract law, employment law and regulatory compliance. Graduates are well-suited for roles as compliance officers, legal analysts or corporate counsel. The average salary for a compliance officer is $78,371 per year.
Marketing
A marketing concentration focuses on consumer behavior, advertising and brand management. Graduates can pursue careers as marketing managers, market research analysts or brand strategists. Marketing managers earn a median salary of $156,580 — a lucrative option for those interested in strategic roles.
Economics
With a concentration in economics, students learn to analyze data, interpret market trends and make informed decisions. This path is ideal for careers as economists, policy analysts or business consultants, with economists earning a median salary of $115,730 annually. The focus is on understanding economic forces and their impact on business and society.
Key Skills for Success in Business Administration Careers
Success in business administration careers depends on developing a set of core skills that are essential for navigating the complexities of the business world. Some of the critical skills that professionals need to thrive in this field include:
Leadership and Strategic Thinking
Effective leadership involves guiding teams, making strategic decisions and setting long-term goals. Business administration professionals in leadership roles need to be forward-thinking and able to inspire and motivate their teams. Strategic thinking helps craft actionable business plans and drive organizational success; not to mention, it is actually one of the top skills sought in business leaders due to its significant impact on organizational growth.
Financial Insight and Decision-Making
A strong understanding of finance is essential to making informed business decisions. Business professionals must be able to interpret financial statements, manage budgets and assess the financial impact of their decisions. The BLS highlights that professionals with financial acumen are better positioned for roles such as financial analysts and managers, where decision-making based on financial data is a key responsibility.
Communication and Team Collaboration
Clear communication and the ability to work collaboratively with teams are vital for success in business administration. Whether leading a team or working across departments, professionals must communicate ideas clearly and collaborate effectively to achieve company goals. Communication is one of the top soft skills in demand across all industries, helping to foster better teamwork and business results.
What Jobs Can You Get With a Business Administration Degree?
So, what jobs can you get with a business administration degree, exactly? A business administration degree provides a pathway to diverse career opportunities, even at the associate degree level. Graduates with an associate degree can explore entry-level roles that often lead to advancement as they gain experience and further education. A few common job options for those with an associate degree in business administration include:
Jobs You May Get With an Associate Degree
- Office manager – Responsible for overseeing daily operations in an office setting, coordinating administrative tasks and managing staff.
- Human resource specialist – Focuses on employee recruitment, benefits and training within an organization.
- Administrative assistant – Provides clerical and organizational support to executives or departments, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations.
- Project manager – Manages specific projects within a company, coordinating resources, timelines and objectives to meet business goals.
Jobs You May Get With a BBA Degree
With a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree, graduates have access to mid-level and specialized roles in numerous industries. The following are common career options for individuals with a BBA, offering opportunities for job growth and advancement:
- Accountant – Prepares and examines financial records, ensuring accuracy and compliance with laws and regulations.
- Marketing manager – Develops and implements marketing strategies to promote products or services, often managing teams and budgets.
- Compliance officer – Ensures that companies follow internal policies and external regulations, identifying risks and implementing corrective measures.
- Management analyst – Evaluates business processes and recommends improvements to increase efficiency and profitability.
- Health service manager – Oversees operations within healthcare facilities, ensuring that services are delivered effectively and efficiently.
- Market research analyst – Analyzes market trends to help companies understand consumer preferences and make data-driven business decisions.
Jobs You May Get With an MBA
An MBA degree equips graduates with advanced skills and opens doors to high-level leadership and strategic roles in various industries. Here are some of the top career options for MBA graduates, with each offering substantial responsibility and earning potential:
- Chief executive officer – Oversees the overall operations and strategy of a company, making critical decisions to drive growth and success.
- Human resources manager – Manages the recruitment, training and development of employees while ensuring compliance with labor laws and fostering a positive work environment.
- Business consultant – Offers expert advice to organizations on improving efficiency, solving specific problems and achieving business goals.
- Information technology manager – Oversees the IT infrastructure of a company, ensuring that technology systems align with business objectives and are maintained properly.
- Personal financial advisor – Works with individuals to provide financial guidance on investments, retirement planning and wealth management.
Start Your Journey to a Rewarding Business Career at Husson
A business administration degree can open the door to a wide range of exciting career opportunities — whether you're starting with an associate degree, earning your BBA or advancing with an MBA. At Husson University, our flexible, online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Master of Science in Business Administration programs are designed to provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in today's competitive job market.
Ready to take the next step toward your future? Apply today and gain the expertise to pursue a fulfilling career in business.
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