Business Management Careers: 2025 Guide to Career Paths, Options & Salary

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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A note from the author, Imed Bouchrika, PhD, career planning expert:

While the business management field offers numerous growth opportunities, navigating the multitude of business schools and programs available can be overwhelming. For instance, according to the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, there were more than 550 business schools in the U.S. in 2023. 

With over a decade of experience in career planning, I'm here to assist you in making informed decisions about your business education and career. Through this guide, I’ll help you explore business career management opportunities, assess job prospects, and understand earning potential, enabling you to chart your career path more effectively.

Key things you should know about business management careers

• In the academic year 2021-2022, over 391,000 business-related degrees were awarded in the US, surpassing other disciplines.
• According to 2023 data, professionals in business management often enjoy lucrative earning potentials, with a median annual wage of $77,274.
• Employment prospects for business management graduates are promising, with projections indicating faster-than-average growth in business and financial occupations from 2022 to 2032. About 911,400 annual openings are expected, reflecting strong demand for skilled professionals.
• The primary degree business managers attain is typically a bachelor's degree, with 65% holding this qualification. Associate degrees comprise 14% and 12% of business managers, respectively.
• Top executive positions such as CEO, CFO, and COO tend to be among the highest-paying roles in business management, with salaries ranging from $150,000 to over $500,000 annually.

Table of Contents

1. Why pursue a career in business management?
2. What is the career outlook for graduates of business management?
3. What are the required skills for business managers?
4. What are the most in-demand specializations within business management?
5. How do you start a career in business management?
6. How can you advance your career in business management?
7. What are the alternative career options for business managers?
8. What factors should you consider when choosing a business management program?
9. Should I pursue a DBA for advanced career growth?
10. What are the emerging trends in business management?
11. How can you transition into a business management career?
12. Is the investment in a business management degree justified?
13. Can an online economics degree enhance your business management skill set?
14. How to fast-track your career in business management?
15. What are the benefits of an affordable online business management degree?
16. What specializations should you consider in business management?
17. Can accelerated MBA programs boost your career in business management?
18. Is a business management career right for you?
19. Other Things You Should Know About Business Management Careers

Here's What Graduates Have to Say About Their Business Management Careers

My business management degree gave me the flexibility I craved! I started in a large corporation, learning the ropes of finance and operations. Now, I'm running my own small bakery, drawing on my marketing and management skills to build a brand and a loyal customer base. The problem-solving and decision-making skills I honed are invaluable, and the sense of accomplishment in building something from the ground up is incredibly rewarding. - Sarah

I always knew I wanted a career that was dynamic and ever-changing. Business management offered that and more. My current role as a product manager at a tech startup allows me to wear many hats – from analyzing market trends to collaborating with cross-functional teams. It's a fast-paced environment, but the constant learning and the opportunity to directly impact the company's success keeps me motivated. - Mark

If you enjoy variety and a challenge, business management might be the perfect fit. My background was in engineering, but I craved a broader perspective. Now, as a management consultant, I get to work with diverse clients across different industries. Helping them solve complex business problems and achieve their goals is incredibly fulfilling, and the intellectual stimulation keeps me engaged. - Cora

Why pursue a career in business management?

Business management can be a fulfilling career in many regards—monetary-wise and when it comes to personal and social fulfillment. Managers in all industries are tasked not just to manage processes but also to manage people. A management job could be a great fit for those who choose to be leaders and enjoy teamwork.

Furthermore, good leaders are in demand because of the dynamic nature of today’s social, economic, and political milieu. For one, modern leaders must have the skills needed to navigate organizations into a post-pandemic world with new challenges. This includes the trending demand for businesses to be socially conscious.

Additionally, pursuing a career in business management often leads to lucrative earning potential. Based on recent data, the median annual wage for professionals in this field stood at $76,850, surpassing the median annual wage for all occupations, which was $46,310.

The chart below provides a clear and concise overview of the job growth of various business and financial roles until 2032.

What is the career outlook for graduates of business management?

For business management graduates, I find that employment prospects are promising, with projections suggesting faster-than-average growth in business and financial occupations from 2022 to 2032. About 911,400 annual openings are expected, indicating a strong demand for skilled professionals in business management roles.

Business management is quite a general discipline. But, with many areas of specialization. Specializations include operations management, supply chain management, logistics career, project management, retail management, and ecommerce.

What are the required skills for business managers?

Business managers drive organizational success through effective leadership and strategic decision-making. To excel in this dynamic field, individuals need diverse skills to navigate complex business environments and lead teams toward achieving corporate objectives.

• Leadership. Business managers must possess strong leadership qualities to inspire and motivate their teams, foster a positive work culture, and guide employees toward shared goals. 
• Decision-making. Business managers must exhibit sound decision-making skills to assess risks, evaluate alternatives, and make timely and well-informed decisions that align with organizational objectives and maximize outcomes. 
• Communication. Effective communication skills are essential for business managers to articulate vision, delegate tasks, provide feedback, and resolve conflicts, fostering clear and transparent communication channels within the organization. 
• Strategic thinking. Thinking strategically is crucial for business managers to analyze market trends, identify opportunities, and develop innovative strategies that enhance the organization's competitive position. 
• Adaptability. This skills is key for business managers to respond effectively to change, embrace innovation, and lead their teams through periods of transition and uncertainty. 
• Financial acumen. Understanding financial principles and metrics is vital for business managers to interpret financial reports, allocate resources efficiently, and make data-driven decisions that optimize profitability and sustainability.

What are the most in-demand specializations within business management?

In business management, specializations allow professionals to focus on specific areas that are growing fast. Some of the most in-demand specializations include:

• Supply Chain Management: With global trade increasing, managing logistics and supply chains efficiently is critical. Professionals with expertise in supply chain management are sought after in manufacturing, retail, and e-commerce.
• Marketing Management: As businesses rely more on digital platforms, marketing management professionals skilled in social media, digital marketing, and branding are in high demand.
• Financial Management: Companies need financial managers to handle budgets, investments, and financial planning. This specialization offers a pathway into banking, investment, and corporate finance roles.
• Human Resource Management: With the evolving nature of work environments, HR professionals are essential to managing talent, ensuring compliance, and overseeing organizational development.
• Healthcare Management: The healthcare sector continues to grow, and business managers are needed to manage operations, finances, and regulatory compliance within hospitals and healthcare organizations.

These specializations offer job security and opportunities for career advancement in various industries, making them valuable choices for business management graduates.

How do you start a career in business management?

There can be many starting points on how to get a business degree. This includes pursuing relevant educational qualifications such as an associate's degree or a bachelor's degree in business administration or a related field, gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions, and continuously honing essential skills such as leadership, communication, and strategic thinking.

Based on a recent report, the primary degree attained by business managers is typically a bachelor's degree, with 65% of them holding this qualification. Following bachelor's degrees, the next most common degrees are associate degrees, comprising 14% and 12% of business managers, respectively.

What can I do with an associate degree in business management?

 An associate degree in business management can open up several entry-level opportunities in various industries. Here are some potential career paths:

Administrative Assistant 

These professionals help in the execution of various administrative tasks. These include scheduling meetings, writing and answering emails, answering phone calls, organizing files, and setting up appointments, among many other things. In this role, you'll be required to multi-task and may work for an organization or an individual. 

Median Annual Pay: $44,080

Customer Service Representative

You'll help customers or clients with billing and product/service issues as a customer service representative. With the prevalence of digital media, customer service representatives offer support through all channels including new digital media like social media and web chat.

Median Annual Pay: $41,190

Sales Associate

Sales associates work directly with customers to promote and sell products or services, often in retail or wholesale settings. Your role includes assisting customers with product selection, answering questions, processing transactions, and contributing to achieving sales targets. 

Median Annual Pay: $46,310

What can I do with a bachelor’s degree in business management?

A bachelor's degree in business management provides more career opportunities than an associate's degree. Here are some potential career paths you can pursue with a bachelor's degree in business management:

Business Analyst

As a business analyst, you'd be tasked with analyzing an organization's operations, processes, and systems to identify areas for improvement and efficiency. Your role would involve gathering and interpreting data, conducting market research, and collaborating with stakeholders to develop strategies and solutions that drive business growth.

Median Annual Pay: $95,290 

Human Resources Specialist

Alternatively, you may pursue a career as a Human Resources Specialist. In this role, you'd manage various aspects of the employee lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, training, performance management, and employee relations. Your duties would also entail ensuring compliance with labor laws and company policies and fostering a positive work culture and employee engagement.

Median Annual Pay: $64,240

Marketing Coordinator

Another exciting career path for business management graduates is that of a marketing coordinator. In this role, you'd be involved in developing and implementing marketing strategies to promote products or services, attract customers, and drive sales. Your responsibilities may include market research, campaign planning, content creation, social media management, and performance analysis.

Median Annual Pay: $68,230 

How can you advance your career in business management?

To advance your career in business management, consider pursuing further education, such as a master's degree or professional certifications in specialized areas like project management or finance. Additionally, seek opportunities to gain hands-on experience through leadership roles, special projects, or cross-functional teams.

What can I do with a master’s degree in business management?

A master's degree in business management (such as an MBA) offers advanced knowledge and skills that can qualify you for leadership positions and specialized roles across a wide range of industries. Here are some career paths you can pursue with a master's degree in business management:

Business Development Manager

Business development managers collaborate closely with sales, marketing majors, and product development teams to drive business growth and achieve organizational objectives. Strong communication skills, strategic thinking, and negotiation abilities are essential for success in this role.

Median Annual Pay: $120,000 

Operations Manager

In this role, you'd be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of a business or organization to ensure efficiency, productivity, and profitability. Your duties include managing resources, optimizing processes, and implementing quality control measures to streamline operations and maximize performance.

Median Annual Pay: $122,860

Management Consultant

Management consultants leverage their expertise in strategy, finance, and operations to help clients navigate complex business issues and drive sustainable growth. Your day-to-day tasks include conducting assessments, analyzing data, and helping clients optimize their processes.

Median Annual Pay: $95,290 

What kind of job can I get with a doctorate in business management?

With a doctorate in business management, you can pursue advanced career opportunities in academia, research, consulting, and executive leadership. Here are some potential job roles you could consider:

Corporate Strategist

Doctorate holders in business management often excel as corporate strategists, leveraging their deep understanding of business principles. This role requires you to analyze market trends, competitive landscapes, and internal capabilities to formulate strategies that drive business growth. 

Median Annual Pay: $96,220

Business Professor

With a doctorate in business management, you can pursue a career as a business professor in universities and colleges. You'll teach courses in various business disciplines, conduct research, publish scholarly articles, and mentor students. Your expertise and insights can contribute to advancing knowledge in the field and preparing future business leaders through education and research. 

Median Annual Pay: $108,060

Executive Leadership:

A doctorate in business management can lead you to executive leadership positions in organizations, such as chief executive officer (CEO), chief operations officer (COO), or chief financial officer (CFO). With your advanced knowledge, strategic insight, and leadership capabilities, you'll be responsible for driving organizational success, innovation, and sustainable growth.

Median Annual Pay: $100,090 

Can you get a business management job with just a certificate?

There are many jobs for people with a business management certificate. It can provide entry-level positions in retail, bookkeeping, and even management. A business certificate is also helpful to further your education and earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree. 

Which certification is best for business management?

Certifications in business management offer valuable credentials that validate expertise and enhance credibility in the field. They provide employers with assurance of competence and commitment to professional development, increasing individuals' employability and career advancement opportunities. Here are the best certifications to get for business management:

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification. The PMP certification is widely recognized and respected in business management, particularly in project management roles. It demonstrates proficiency in leading and directing projects, including effectively planning, executing, monitoring, and closing projects. 

Certified Management Consultant (CMC) Certification. The CMC certification is ideal for business management professionals specializing in management consulting. It signifies expertise in providing strategic advice and solutions to organizations to improve performance, solve problems, and achieve objectives. 

Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) Certification: The CBAP certification is designed for business analysts seeking to demonstrate proficiency in analyzing business needs, eliciting requirements, and implementing solutions. A CBAP certification demonstrates the ability to align business requirements with organizational objectives, driving value and innovation.

What are the alternative career options for business managers?

Alternative career options for business managers offer diverse paths beyond traditional managerial roles within organizations. Unlike a regular business manager career, which typically involves overseeing day-to-day operations within a specific organization, alternative careers may offer greater flexibility, autonomy, and potential for innovation. Here are examples of the alternative career paths for business managers:

Entrepreneurship

 Business managers often transition into entrepreneurship, leveraging their knowledge and skills to start and manage their own businesses. Whether launching a startup, franchise, or consulting firm, entrepreneurship offers the opportunity to pursue innovative ideas, create value, and take control of one's professional destiny.

Project Management

Business managers can pursue careers in project management, overseeing the planning, execution, and completion of projects within organizations. Project managers coordinate resources, manage budgets, and ensure project objectives are met on time and within scope, utilizing their leadership and organizational abilities to deliver successful outcomes.

Supply Chain Management 

Supply chain management involves overseeing the flow of goods and services from suppliers to customers, and optimizing processes to enhance efficiency and minimize costs. Business managers can pursue careers in supply chain management, managing logistics, procurement, inventory, and distribution operations to ensure seamless supply chain operations and customer satisfaction.

Private Consultancy

Managers with tons of experience can also lend their expertise to clients ranging from businesses to individuals. For instance, expert PR specialists can put up a firm or individual practice to lend their services. They can do this through full outsourcing or a consultancy capacity. This goes the same for expert marketers and finance professionals.

Public Service

Intuitively, good business managers can also be good public servants in elected or non-elected posts. Like their private industry counterparts, public servants handle various responsibilities within their particular administration domain. Business managers may also vie for positions that help elected officials, like working as a staff, a consultant, or a cabinet member.

Financial Management

Financial management involves managing an organization's financial resources, including budgeting, forecasting, investment analysis, and risk management. Business managers with a strong understanding of finance principles can pursue careers in financial management, overseeing financial operations and providing strategic guidance to support organizational goals and objectives.

What factors should you consider when choosing a business management program?

When evaluating a business management program, consider accreditation standards, faculty expertise, curriculum relevance, and robust career support services. Assess how the program’s structure aligns with your professional schedule—whether delivered online, on-campus, or through a hybrid model—and review cost transparency along with available financial aid options. Examine alumni outcomes and industry partnerships as indicators of practical, real-world readiness. Some programs even offer tailored pathways for those keen to pursue the easiest business major, ensuring a balance between rigorous academics and manageable program demands.

Should I pursue a DBA for advanced career growth?

Advanced doctoral studies can offer a significant edge by deepening theoretical insights and refining strategic leadership skills for high-level decision-making. A DBA focuses on applied research that addresses real-world business challenges and provides a framework for innovation and organizational transformation. These programs are designed for professionals seeking to integrate academic research with practical business practice without pausing their career progression. For more information on cost-effective and flexible options, explore our article on DBA programs online.

What are the emerging trends in business management?

Business management is rapidly evolving as technology and global market dynamics reshape traditional practices. Today’s leaders increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation strategies to improve efficiency and stay competitive. Furthermore, environmental sustainability, remote team management, and agile methodologies are emerging as critical focus areas. In this fast-changing environment, executives are encouraged to stay informed and continuously update their skill set—considering even accelerated options such as the 1 year MBA program—to effectively navigate these trends and drive innovation.

How can you transition into a business management career?

Business management is an attractive field for individuals seeking to move into leadership and high-impact roles. Professionals from diverse backgrounds can transition into this area by leveraging transferable skills and pursuing additional education.

Transition strategies include:

• Leverage Existing Skills: Communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills are highly transferable and can be applied to management roles in various industries.
• Further Education: Pursuing an online MBA no GMAT provides the necessary business knowledge to fill gaps and develop new competencies.
• Networking: Expanding your professional network through events, alumni, and professional organizations helps you access job opportunities in business management.
• Mentorship: Finding mentors with business management experience can guide your career path, helping you make strategic decisions and avoid common pitfalls.
• Internships and Part-Time Roles: Gaining hands-on experience through internships or part-time roles in business management helps build practical knowledge and increase marketability.

Is the investment in a business management degree justified?

To determine if a business management degree is a sound investment, evaluate the balance between education costs and long-term financial returns. Consider quantifiable factors such as salary growth, promotional opportunities, and increased managerial responsibilities against the program’s tuition fees and potential opportunity costs. A robust cost-to-benefit analysis, incorporating both direct expenses and indirect benefits like networking and professional development, is crucial in making an informed decision. For further insights into tuition considerations, review the online MBA cost.

Can an online economics degree enhance your business management skill set?

A complementary online economics degree can equip business management professionals with a robust analytical framework and a deeper understanding of market dynamics. Integrating economic principles with management practices can refine your ability to analyze trends, forecast business cycles, and optimize resource allocation for strategic decision-making. This additional insight serves as a valuable asset for tackling complex financial scenarios and shaping sustainable growth initiatives. Consider reviewing the most affordable online economics degree to further diversify your skill set and bolster your competitive edge.

How to fast-track your career in business management?

For aspiring business management professionals looking to accelerate their career growth, there are several strategies that can fast-track their path to leadership positions. While traditional career progression in business management often involves years of experience and climbing the corporate ladder, with the right approach, you can shorten the timeline significantly. Here’s how:

• Pursue Accelerated Education Programs: If you’re eager to fast-track your career, consider enrolling in the fastest online business degree. These programs are designed to help you earn your degree in a shorter period, often within 18 months or less. Online platforms offer flexible learning options, allowing you to balance work while completing your education. By completing a
• Gain Practical Experience Early: In addition to formal education, hands-on experience is invaluable. Seek internships, part-time roles, or freelance projects that provide real-world exposure to business management. This experience will not only strengthen your resume but also develop your problem-solving and decision-making skills, which are critical for higher-level positions.
• Leverage Networking and Mentorship: Building a strong professional network is crucial in business management. Attend industry events, join relevant business organizations, and connect with mentors who have already achieved success in the field. Networking can provide valuable insights into industry trends, job opportunities, and the skills necessary to advance quickly.
• Specialize in High-Demand Areas: Specializing in areas such as digital transformation, data analytics, or strategic leadership can significantly enhance your career prospects. These fields are in high demand and often offer quicker paths to leadership roles. Consider adding certifications or specialized coursework to your degree that align with these growth areas. Specialization not only makes you stand out but also positions you as an expert in a niche area, leading to faster career progression.
• Seek Leadership Roles Early: Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you—seek them out. Look for entry-level roles with leadership potential, such as team leader or project manager, which allow you to gain management experience while still early in your career. By demonstrating strong leadership early on, you can move up the ladder more quickly.
• Stay Updated with Industry Trends: Business management is an ever-evolving field, and staying ahead of the curve is essential to fast-tracking your career. Regularly read industry reports, attend webinars, and take courses on emerging business trends. By staying updated on topics like digital business models, sustainability, and remote team management, you’ll position yourself as a forward-thinking leader, ready for new challenges.

By leveraging these strategies, you can effectively fast-track your business management career and achieve leadership positions in a shorter time frame. Whether through accelerated degree programs, networking, or specializing in high-demand skills, these approaches will set you up for success and give you a competitive edge in today’s business world.

What are the benefits of an affordable online business management degree?

Pursuing an affordable online business management degree can open doors to enhancing your career, providing flexibility, and minimizing financial strain. Many students are drawn to online programs because of their ability to balance education with professional and personal obligations. Moreover, affordability ensures that quality education is accessible without leading to overwhelming student debt.

These degrees offer a range of benefits, including up-to-date curricula that reflect the latest trends in the field, such as digital transformation and sustainability practices. Online programs also foster essential skills like communication, leadership, and critical problem-solving, equipping you for managerial roles in various industries. For detailed insights into cost-effective options and programs suited to your needs, consider exploring the cheapest business administration degree online. This resource can help guide you toward a degree program that aligns with your career goals while staying within budget.

Ultimately, choosing an affordable and flexible path in business education can fast-track your career growth without compromising quality, making it an excellent option for aspiring business professionals.

What specializations should you consider in business management?

When considering a career in business management, it's essential to think about the specializations that can enhance your career prospects. With the ever-evolving business landscape, certain specializations are in high demand. One such specialization is business analytics, which involves using data and statistical methods to drive business decisions. If you're interested in this field, you can explore online MBA business analytics programs that can provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in this area. By considering specializations like business analytics, you can increase your chances of success in the business management field and stay ahead of the competition.

Can accelerated MBA programs boost your career in business management?

Accelerated MBA programs offer an efficient pathway to acquire advanced managerial skills without prolonged timeframes. These programs combine intensive coursework with practical leadership exercises, enabling professionals to quickly adapt to evolving business challenges. They are strategically designed for individuals aiming to secure leadership roles sooner by integrating real-world case studies and networking opportunities with industry experts. For professionals seeking to capitalize on this accelerated learning model, exploring the shortest online MBA programs can provide valuable insights into curriculum structure, cost, and program delivery that directly align with fast-tracking career advancement in business management.

Is a business management career right for you?

If you are a self-driven individual with leadership skills and high strategic-level thinking, then business management may be the right fit for you. There are plenty of opportunities. These are not limited to getting a good-paying job. This extends to creating a network for value creation—social contribution. Plus, it offers many valuable learning opportunities.

Maybe, the best thing for business managers is that their skills are translatable to virtually all human endeavors, ranging from home economics to government administration. However, taking a general approach in this career may water down your skills and value for organizations. So, it is highly recommended that managers specialize in one or a few areas.

If you are interested, read our business career guide to learn the main requirements to start your career as a business manager. This way, you can develop a better business management plan before diving in.

Other Things You Should Know About Business Management Careers

What is the job of management business?

The job of business management involves overseeing the operations and activities of a business or organization to ensure efficiency, profitability, and overall success. This includes strategic planning, decision-making, resource allocation, and personnel management.

What is the highest paying job in business management?

Generally, top executive positions such as chief executive officer (CEO), chief financial officer (CFO), and chief operating officer (COO) tend to be among the highest paying roles in business management. For these positions, salaries typically range from $150,000 to over $500,000 annually.

Is business management a profession?

Yes, business management is considered a profession. Professionals in this field typically possess a combination of education, skills, and experience managing various aspects of a business or organization. Many business management professionals also adhere to ethical standards and principles established by professional organizations or associations.

How does specialization impact career progression in business management?

Specialization can have a significant impact on career progression in business management. By specializing in a specific area, such as finance, marketing, operations, or human resources, individuals can develop highly valued expertise in the business world. Specialization can lead to opportunities for advancement, higher salaries, and greater job satisfaction in business management. 

How does a business management program align with evolving business practices?

The curriculum of a business management program is designed to align with industry trends and evolving business practices by integrating relevant topics such as digital transformation, data analytics, sustainability, and strategic leadership. Courses often cover areas like business ethics, global markets, financial management, and organizational behavior to provide a comprehensive understanding of modern business environments. By staying updated with industry trends and collaborating with industry professionals, Business Management programs ensure that students acquire the knowledge and skills needed to navigate complex business challenges, innovate solutions, and make informed decisions in today's dynamic and competitive business landscape.

How does a business management degree prepare you for leadership roles in various industries?

A business management degree prepares students for leadership roles by providing a strong foundation in essential business functions such as finance, marketing, and operations. The curriculum emphasizes strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Leadership courses teach students how to motivate teams, manage conflicts, and communicate effectively. Real-world projects, internships, and case studies offer practical experience and insights into different industries. Networking opportunities with professionals and alumni help build valuable connections. This comprehensive training equips graduates to lead diverse teams and drive organizational success in various sectors, including corporate, non-profit, and government organizations.

References:

• Statista. (2023, November 7). Bachelor’s degrees earned in the United States 2020/21, by field of research. Statista. 
• U.S. Burau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Business and Financial Occupations. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 
• Zip Recruiter. (2023). 25 of the Highest Paying Business Jobs in 2024. Zip Recruiter. 
• Zippia. (2023, July 21). Business Manager Demographics and Statistics [2024]: Number of business managers in the US. Zippia.