Furthering your education will not only increase your earning potential, but also, will provide greater access to job opportunities. It is stated that 93.5% of MBA (Masters in Business Administration) students are employed 90 days after graduation according to statistics based on full-time graduating students who graduated in the Class of 2014, (See Figure 1).

Salary Figures
Scale | Salary | Bonus
Average | $94,887 | $15,439
Minimum | $46,000 | $3,000
Maximum |$160,000 | $30,000
Median | $95,000 | $13,750
(Figure 1: Figures are based on a tradition, full-time MBA graduating student class of 2014)

Why Obtain a Degree in Business?
Employers in the United States have rising expectations on the need for a skilled and well-educated workforce, given that over one million grads enter the American workforce yearly. Employers view a degree in Business is crucial for continuing education students, as well as established professionals, as a means to remain competitive with the rest of the world. A business education that is results-oriented, which includes not only established theories, but also, real-life applications, is vital for your success in our progressively worldwide and technically innovative business world. A Bachelor of Science in Business is a functional area of study. The curriculum can offer students a great deal of real-world experience. This experience provides a smooth shift from an educational institution to career. However, students are encouraged to be prepared for the steady adjustments while seeking employment. Rather than concentrating your studies on a high-demand area, seek a path that is focused toward your own passions and talents. Given that the market can change at anytime, consider your education and learning as a jumping-off point instead of a direct line to a specific job opportunity or niche industry. Put in the time to do an analysis of what you can “bring to the table”, what your passions are, and your desire and career goals. Depending upon which area you focus on, the many areas of opportunity you could encounter include: problem solving, innovative thinking, avid listening, and innovative pioneer.

A Concentration in Business
Sometimes, a degree in Business can be viewed as the “play it safe” major given that it covers business in general versus a specific subject. However, every organization throughout all industries, rely upon business principles to thrive. Individuals who possess a strong business education, not only are capable of starting their own business, but also, they have the fundamental skills necessary to master a variety of job positions in the field of their choice.

Increasing Demand for Business Majors
Due to the endless number of job opportunities available to people with an excellent business education, the demand for business majors will always be increasing. Employers in every market require skilled labor that has been educated and have skills in areas of planning, organization and management within a company. Also, there are many organizations across a variety of industries who depend on business school recruiting alone to hire new employees.

Opportunities for Expertise
A major in business is not a simple as many people believe. There are a great amount of opportunities for a business concentration than most other fields. Business majors can choose to concentrate in finance, accounting, marketing, human resources, management, non-profits, real estate or any path relating to the business or industry. If you aren’t certain what you intend to do for the rest of your life, but you need to select a major, then business is a great option. You can always select a concentration that fits your passions, personality and occupational goals later on.

Career Objectives in Business
Whether you attend college on campus or online, collegiate courses in business administration and business management could lead toward fast-track career positions. Obtaining a business degree will enable you to develop leadership skills and train you to approach obstacles based on proven methodologies and cutting-edge solutions. Business degree programs generally consist of courses in finance, accounting, quantitative analysis, management, and computer technologies. Additional courses include change management, organizational behavior, social interaction, business-based research and ethics. Deciding which degree to earn relies on your own passions, qualifications and also career objectives. From associate degrees to PhD programs, there are a substantial range of educational programs as well as individual program choices. Numerous business level programs have a focus in one particular function, such as e-commerce, management, or communications.

Career Opportunities for Business Degrees
If you understand that a degree in business as a basic foundation as opposed to a specialized training program, then you can envision the ample job opportunities available to you. For instance:

Careers in Sales:
In sales, your concentration will lead you to build relationships and connect with customers. Job descriptions can vary from point-of-sale jobs (connecting directly with the customer) to advertising, marketing management, career counseling, product management, and real estate sales agent, and travel and hospitality jobs.

Healthcare Careers:
With changes in the healthcare industry comes a variety of opportunities, especially as the field takes on a more business-oriented approach. The term HMO stands for Health Management Organization. Degrees in healthcare management have become increasingly popular. Business oriented healthcare concentrations were created to aid professionals in handling increased costs, patient diversity, human resource logistics and the insurance regulatory system.

Nonprofit Careers:
Although the working for a nonprofit may have different motivating factors than regular companies, individuals in this career sector offers many similar job titles and work opportunities. Not-for-profit organization need experienced business professionals in order for their programs to function, to service customers and financiers, and also support responsible monetary management techniques.

Management Careers:
Business managers will typically hold a bachelor’s degree in business or business administration. Additionally, they often have a concentration that is ideal for their industry. Typical job descriptions include tasks such as, work long hours, oversee a staff, and organize operations. The hours for business managers are typically longer compared to lower level careers.

Retail Careers:
Retail managers oversee all elements of business operations where goods are being sold. They work with as well as train team members, take care of stock, maintain floor displays, and also support good client relations plans. In most retail careers, a college degree is preferred; however, many large retailers incorporate extensive training programs. Experienced retail managers can advance by getting promoted to positions as a buyer and boost their earning potential.

Buyer Careers:
As a buyer for a company, the role includes being responsible for purchasing various company assets or services. Duties involve selecting suppliers, negotiating prices, and awarding contracts. As a buyer, your essential responsible for a companies supply chain. Having a good understanding of consumer buying behavior and buying trends is essential. Especially in the areas of consumer buying cycle which include production, merchandising and distribution. Careers in this field can involve a high amount of hours and travel, whereas buyers attend conferences, trade shows and fashion shows. Demand in this field has decreased since innovations in technology and due to online shopping. Therefore, an advanced education is vital for competing and retaining the jobs currently available.

Stock Trading Careers:
As a stock trader, you’ll have the opportunity to advance faster by obtaining a Masters in Business Administration (MBA). This career may require additional certifications or licensures. Candidates seeking career opportunities in this field should embody an aggressive personal character and thrive on the concepts of generating money through buying and selling, stocks, options, bonds and other financial instruments.

Hospital Administration Careers:
Administrators in the health industry ensure hospitals and health clinics are operating efficiently. In this field, you will balance the need to provide healthcare while also maintaining an operating budget. As an undergrad, individuals can work with health care organizations to gain experience prior to pursuing a higher education degree, specializing in areas such as public administration, business, or health services administration.