Is Business Administration a Good Major for 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Is business administration a good major?

Business administration is a good major for those who want a versatile option to kickstart their career. According to the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES), business is the most popular bachelor’s degree, making up 19% of the total bachelor’s degrees earned in 2020 (NCES, 2021). After all, it is suitable for those undecided on a career path as well as those aimed at a business career to develop their expertise. Students who take up business administration are trained with transferable skills, such as organization and communication.

As a result, completing your major in business administration will create opportunities for you in different industries. You could explore questions such as “Is business administration a good major for starting a business?" or even “Is business administration a good major for law school?" Furthermore, you can pursue an easy online MBA to quickly advance your career and potentially your income.

Why is business administration a versatile degree?

A business administration degree provides a broad skill set that applies across various industries, making it an appealing choice for professionals seeking career flexibility. Whether you want to pursue management, marketing, finance, or entrepreneurship, business administration opens doors to diverse career paths. Additionally, completing an AACSB accredited online MBA can further expand your opportunities and adapt your skill set to different roles in the business world.

Key reasons why business administration is so versatile include:

• Transferable Skills: The skills learned in business administration, such as project management, leadership, and financial analysis, apply to many different fields.
• Diverse Industries: Business administrators are needed in almost every industry, from healthcare and technology to retail and education.
• Career Flexibility: The broad scope of business administration allows graduates to move between different roles, whether transitioning from finance to marketing or taking on leadership positions.
• Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Business administration provides the foundation for starting your own business, giving you the tools to handle operations, finances, and marketing.
• Global Opportunities: Business administrators often work in international markets, offering the opportunity to work in different countries or with multinational corporations.

Business Administration Career Outlook

Many aspirants tend to ask, “What can I do with a business degree?" A lot. In fact, a business administration degree can open up a variety of career paths and opportunities for advancement. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), over 980,000 job openings exist for those in the business and financial industry. Between 2021 and 2031, employment in this industry is expected to grow by 7% (BLS, n.d.).

Graduates may become managers, consultants, analysts, or entrepreneurs, among other roles. In many cases, a degree in business administration, similar to an HR degree, can serve as a stepping stone to higher-level positions and increased earning potential. Here are some career options you will be eligible for after majoring in business administration:

• Labor Relations Specialists. These professionals specialize in managing and resolving disputes between employers and employees. Labor Relations Specialists typically work for companies, unions, or government agencies to promote positive labor relations and ensure that labor laws are followed.
• Management Analysts. Business administration majors are adept in ensuring organizational efficiency, making them ideal candidates for management analyst positions. They will provide suggestions to key decision-makers on maximizing productivity or improving the workplace for their employees.
• Project Administrators or Coordinators. Business administration majors with a bachelor in public administration degree have extensive budgeting, planning, and documentation knowledge. As a result, they can assist project managers in ensuring that the goals of any project are achieved and that risks are mitigated through effective planning.
• Training and Development Specialists. When a company adapts or requests a new process, a training and development specialist can provide key insights and expertise to the team. The specialist will help the management make informed decisions and assist in the training and developing of all employees.
• Purchasing Managers. As a purchasing manager, you would be responsible for sourcing and procuring the goods and services necessary for an organization’s operations. This can involve negotiating contracts, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring that goods are delivered on time and within budget. Business administration majors can bring diverse skills to this role, including financial management, strategic planning, and communication. You could supplement your business administration major with a degree in supply chain management.
• Human Resources (HR) Specialists. HR specialists are responsible for recruiting, hiring, and training employees, managing employee benefits, and maintaining compliance with employment laws and regulations. Business administration majors focus on organizational behavior, strategic planning, and employee development, which are valuable for HR roles.

How much do business administration graduates earn?

Business administration degrees are among the highest-paying majors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, business and financial sector employees earned an average annual salary of $76,570 in 2021. So, if you’re wondering, “is majoring in business administration worth it?" you can consider the return on investment on your expenses while you are studying for the degree and your potential earnings after you graduate.

Depending on the career you obtain after your business administration degree, your salary can vary greatly. For instance, the median pay for budget analysts is $79,940, while market research analysts earn an average of $63,920.

Skills Business Administration Majors Develop

Graduates of business administration programs typically gain a strong foundation in areas such as accounting, economics, management, and business strategy. They also develop valuable soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are essential in any workplace.

According to Zippia, the top three competencies business administrators are expected to have are customer service, presentation skills, and payroll. Other in-demand skills for business administrator positions are financial statement preparations, management, and facilitating effective collaboration with team members (Zippia, n.d.). Here is a brief overview of these skills and why they are essential for business administrator majors:

• Customer Service: Business administrators are often responsible for managing and improving the customer experience. Therefore, having excellent customer service skills is crucial to building and maintaining strong relationships with customers, which can lead to increased sales and customer loyalty.
• Presentation skills, particularly PowerPoint: Presentation skills are important for business administrators as they are frequently required to present information and proposals to clients, employees, and stakeholders. Creating and delivering effective presentations using tools like PowerPoint is essential for communicating ideas and gaining support. This is a transferable skill for those wondering about the answer to the question: “Is business administration a good major for real estate?" Real estate agents need to have the necessary presentation skills to convince potential buyers into closing a deal.
• Payroll: Business administrators often handle payroll responsibilities, including calculating and processing employee wages, taxes, and benefits. Expertise in payroll systems and compliance with employment laws is essential for ensuring accurate and timely employee payment.
• Financial Statement Preparations: Business administrators need to have a strong understanding of financial statements, such as income statements and balance sheets. They should be able to prepare and analyze financial statements to provide accurate financial information for decision-making and strategic planning.
• Management: Business administrators oversee and manage a wide range of business operations, from budgets and finances to employee performance and project management. They must have excellent organizational and problem-solving skills to ensure everything runs smoothly and efficiently.
• Collaboration: Business administrators must provide effective support to their team members. This includes communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills to help other employees succeed and contribute to the business’s overall success.

What can you do with a business administration degree?

A business administration degree can be a prerequisite for further education or specialized roles. Depending on your preferred career path, majoring in business administration equips you with many transferable skills.

Is business administration a good major for starting a business?

Business administration can be a good major for starting a business. A degree in business administration provides students with a broad understanding of business principles and practices, including accounting, finance, marketing, management, and operations. This knowledge can be valuable to aspiring entrepreneurs who want to start and manage their businesses.

In addition to learning about business fundamentals, a business administration degree program often includes entrepreneurship, innovation, and small business management courses. These courses can give students the knowledge and skills they need to start and grow a successful business.

Starting a business, however, requires more than just academic knowledge. It also necessitates creativity, initiative, and taking calculated risks. Business administration majors can develop these qualities through internships, extracurricular activities, and hands-on experiences.

Is business administration a good major for law school?

A degree in business administration provides students with a strong foundation in business concepts and practices, including accounting, finance, marketing, management, and operations. These skills could be useful to students pursuing a career in law, particularly in areas such as corporate law, securities law, and tax law.

Business administration majors also develop analytical and problem-solving skills, which can benefit law school and legal practice. Law schools value applicants with diverse skills and knowledge, and a business administration major fits this requirement.

However, it is important to note that no specific major is required for law school. Law schools are interested in applicants from various academic backgrounds and look for students with strong critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills. These skills can be developed through a variety of majors and extracurricular activities.

Is business administration a good major for real estate?

Real estate involves buying, selling, managing, and developing properties, and a degree in business administration can provide students with a strong foundation in business concepts and practices, which can be applied to a career in real estate. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), nearly a third of its members have a bachelor’s degree (NAR, 2022).

Business administration majors often study accounting, finance, marketing, management, and operations, all essential areas of knowledge in real estate. Additionally, business administration majors may have the opportunity to take courses on real estate finance, real estate law, and real estate development, all of which can provide specific knowledge and skills needed in the industry.

Moreover, business administration majors also develop analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, which can be valuable for a career in real estate. Real estate professionals must often analyze market trends, evaluate property values, negotiate deals, and communicate effectively with clients and colleagues.

Is business administration a good major for firefighters?

A business administration degree can be useful for firefighters who are interested in advancing their careers into leadership positions or management roles within fire departments. Fire department officers and administrators need to have strong leadership and management skills, and a business administration degree can provide a strong foundation in these areas.

While some aspects of business administration, such as management, leadership, and communication skills, could be helpful to a firefighter’s career, it is not the most relevant area of study for firefighting. So, if you’re wondering, “is business administration a good major for firefighters?" the transferable skills gained from this degree will be the most relevant to your situation.

Fire fighting programs typically cover fire behavior, fire prevention, firefighting tactics and strategy, hazardous materials, and emergency medical services. These programs also provide hands-on training in firefighting techniques, the use of firefighting equipment, and other essential skills.

Is business administration a good major for military officers?

Military officers require many skills, including leadership, management, communication, and problem-solving. A degree in business administration can provide students with a strong foundation in these areas, making it a good choice for aspiring military officers.

Business administration majors study various topics, including accounting, finance, marketing, management, and operations, which can be valuable to military officers. Military officers must often manage resources, analyze data, develop and implement strategies, and communicate effectively with their subordinates and superiors. A business administration degree can give students the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in these areas.

Additionally, many military officers eventually transition into civilian careers, and a business administration degree can benefit this transition. Business administration majors have a diverse range of career opportunities, including careers in management, consulting, marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship.

Is business administration hard?

Business administration is known as one of the easiest majors to take. However, the inherent difficulty of business administration as a major depends on the student’s abilities, study habits, and interests. Much like any other academic program, a business administration degree comes with its own set of challenges, including the following:

Extensive Coursework Requirements

One of the main challenges of taking up a business administration degree is the amount of coursework involved. Business administration majors typically take a variety of courses in subjects such as accounting, finance, marketing, management, and operations. These courses can be challenging and require significant time and effort to master.

Competition for Admission

Another challenge of a business administration degree is the competition. Business administration is a popular major, so many students compete for limited resources such as internships, job opportunities, and access to prestigious business schools. To succeed, students need to work hard and distinguish themselves through strong academic performance, extracurricular activities, and networking.

Since there is a growing demand for business administration major offerings, you can ensure the validity of your program by checking if it is accredited. The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE), and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) are three of the main accrediting bodies that recognize top business schools and their programs.

Timothy Veach, PhD, a researcher from Bushnell University conducted a study in 2020 to explore the networking opportunities of online MBA classes versus those in person, particularly courses offered by accredited universities. The study was titled “Are Universities Promoting Networking Opportunities In Online MBA Programs, And Should They Be?" and found that online programs did not promote the networking potential of online courses (Veach, 2020). During the study, Veach noted the following breakdown of accredited institutions offering business programs:

“The current study includes accredited business programs in US universities only, constituting a potential limitation to the results. A review of the three accrediting bodies at the time of this study shows that in the United States, there are 529 universities with AACSB business schools (57% of total), 714 ACBSP programs representing 259 universities (28%), and 140 IACBE business departments/schools (15%), for a total of 928 U.S. universities with accredited business programs (AACSB.edu; ACBSPsearch.org; IACBE.org).“

Constant Learning

A further challenge of a business administration degree is the fast-paced nature of the business world. Business administration students must adapt to rapidly changing market conditions, economic trends, and technological advancements. This can be challenging for some students who prefer a more stable and predictable environment.

Overall, the answer to the question “is business administration hard" depends on the student. A business administration degree can be challenging but also rewarding for students interested in the business world and determined to succeed. Students who are considering a business administration degree should carefully consider their interests and strengths and be prepared to work hard and develop a range of skills to succeed.

How do you choose an affordable online business degree program?

When evaluating online business degree programs, applicants should consider factors such as accreditation, curriculum quality, faculty expertise, and post-graduation support services. Thorough research into these aspects helps ensure that the program not only meets career objectives but also offers long-term value and credibility. It is also essential to compare tuition costs and financial aid opportunities to optimize your investment in education. For more detailed insights on cost-effective options, check out the affordable online business degree.

What are the benefits of accelerated online business degree programs in business administration?

Accelerated online degree programs are transforming the landscape of higher education, offering flexibility and efficiency to aspiring professionals. For students considering options like the fastest online business degree, these programs provide unique advantages that cater to various career and lifestyle goals.

Key Benefits of Accelerated Programs:

• Time Efficiency: Accelerated programs allow students to complete their degrees in a shorter timeframe than traditional pathways, often within 12 to 18 months. This is ideal for individuals who aim to enter the workforce or advance their careers quickly.
• Flexibility for Working Professionals: Online formats enable students to balance their studies with full-time jobs or personal responsibilities. With self-paced courses, learners can progress at a speed that suits their schedules.
• Cost-Effectiveness: By reducing the time spent in school, students can save on tuition, housing, and other related costs. This makes pursuing the fastest online business degree an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals.
• Career Advancement Opportunities: Accelerated programs often focus on practical, industry-relevant skills that can be immediately applied in the workplace, helping graduates stand out in competitive job markets.

How can an international business degree expand your global career opportunities?

An international business degree develops cross-cultural competencies and deep market insights that are increasingly important as companies extend their operations globally. This specialization equips professionals with the skills to navigate diverse regulatory environments, manage multicultural teams, and devise strategies that address global economic challenges. For those aiming to gain a competitive edge in international markets, taking the best online international business degree can be a decisive factor in enhancing career prospects and fostering innovation on a worldwide scale.

Emerging Trends in Business Administration Careers

Staying ahead in the job market requires understanding the evolving trends in business administration careers. As businesses increasingly adopt digitization and automation, professionals with a business administration background must align their skills with these changes to remain competitive. For example, proficiency in data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital marketing has become increasingly valuable. Companies are prioritizing candidates who can leverage these tools to drive efficiency and agility in operations.

Another significant trend is the growing focus on sustainable business practices. According to Deloitte’s Global Survey on Sustainability, organizations look for leaders who can implement environmentally and socially responsible strategies. This has created opportunities for roles like sustainability managers or corporate social responsibility (CSR) specialists, highlighting the versatility and adaptability of a business administration degree.

For those driven by earning potential, it’s beneficial to explore the highest paying business jobs and the industries offering lucrative opportunities. This guide on the highest paying business jobs can provide insights into which career paths align with your ambitions and expertise.

Lastly, remote and hybrid job models have become a mainstay in the business world. Business administrators must adapt to managing distributed teams, ensuring collaboration, and maintaining productivity in such setups. Staying updated on these trends will not only broaden your career options but also help you remain relevant in a dynamic job landscape.

What are the long-term salary prospects for business administration graduates?

Business administration graduates can enjoy lucrative career opportunities with significant growth potential. For those interested in pursuing advanced degrees, a master degree in business salary can be substantial, with top-paying master's degrees in business offering salaries ranging from $80,000 to over $150,000. As the business landscape continues to evolve, the demand for skilled professionals with a strong foundation in business administration will remain high, ensuring long-term career stability and financial rewards for graduates.

Is a 1 year MBA the Ideal Shortcut to Career Advancement?

Accelerated 1 year MBA programs offer an intensive curriculum designed to rapidly enhance leadership and strategic skills while minimizing time away from the workforce. These programs emphasize practical applications and experiential learning, which can provide professionals with a swift yet comprehensive upgrade of their business acumen. By reducing both tuition and opportunity costs compared to traditional formats, a 1 year MBA enables candidates to re-enter the market sooner with enhanced qualifications. For detailed insights on program structure and career outcomes, refer to the 1 year MBA guide.

How do business administration programs integrate hands-on learning opportunities?

Business administration programs increasingly incorporate experiential learning to ensure that theoretical insights translate into practical expertise. Institutions are employing case studies, live projects, simulations, and internships that mirror real-world challenges, thereby sharpening students’ problem-solving and decision-making skills. Some programs also offer specialized tracks, such as project management, providing targeted exposure through initiatives like the cheapest online MBA programs in project management. This practical approach helps graduates become agile professionals ready to navigate dynamic business environments.

Is an online MBA without a GMAT a credible pathway for career growth?

Institutions are increasingly offering online MBA programs without a GMAT requirement, streamlining the admissions process while maintaining academic standards and focusing on digital collaboration and real-world applications. These programs prioritize experiential learning and strategic decision-making to ensure graduates are equipped with relevant, hands-on business skills. Employers are recognizing the value of such degrees as they reflect adaptability and practical expertise in evolving business environments. For further evaluation of cost-effective options, consider the best affordable online MBA no GMAT.

Is business administration for you?

You might still wonder, “is majoring in business administration worth it?" With the right mindset and hard work, a business administration degree can be a solid foundation for a rewarding career in the industry. So long as you are keen on honing your customer service, presentation, payroll, financial statement preparation, oversight, and practical support skills, you could be a great fit for this major. It can also be a prerequisite for further studies, such as law, or a lucrative career in real estate. Continue exploring degrees for business administration in our accredited online MBA programs guide.

What factors should you consider when choosing an accelerated MBA program?

When evaluating an accelerated MBA program, assess its accreditation status and curriculum design to ensure rigorous academic standards. Consider whether the program emphasizes experiential learning, industry-driven projects, and strong networking opportunities. Review placement records and the track record of alumni success to understand real-world application and future career potential. Evaluate tuition costs alongside available financial aid options to determine overall return on investment. Additionally, compare programs to resources like online MBA fast track to gain a broader perspective on performance metrics and market competitiveness.

FAQ

1. What is a business administration major?

A business administration major focuses on developing skills and knowledge in areas such as finance, marketing, management, and operations. This major prepares students for a wide range of careers in various industries by providing a broad understanding of business principles and practices.

2. What career opportunities are available for business administration graduates?

Business administration graduates can pursue various career paths, including roles as labor relations specialists, management analysts, project administrators, training and development specialists, purchasing managers, human resources specialists, market research analysts, and budget analysts.

3. How much do business administration graduates earn?

The average annual salary for business administration graduates in the business and financial sector is $76,570. Specific roles such as management analysts can earn around $93,000, while project administrators or coordinators can earn approximately $94,500.

4. What skills do business administration majors develop?

Business administration majors develop skills in customer service, presentation, payroll management, financial statement preparation, management, and collaboration. These skills are essential for ensuring organizational efficiency and effective communication within a business setting.

5. Is business administration a good major for starting a business?

Yes, a business administration degree provides a strong foundation in business principles and practices, which can be valuable for aspiring entrepreneurs. Courses in entrepreneurship, innovation, and small business management equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to start and grow a successful business.

6. Is business administration a good major for law school?

Yes, a business administration degree can be beneficial for law school, especially for those interested in corporate law, securities law, and tax law. The analytical and problem-solving skills developed through this major are valuable in legal studies and practice.

7. Is business administration a good major for real estate?

Yes, a business administration degree is useful for a career in real estate. Knowledge in accounting, finance, marketing, and management, along with courses in real estate finance and law, provide a strong foundation for success in the real estate industry.

8. Is business administration a good major for firefighters?

While not directly related to firefighting, a business administration degree can be useful for firefighters interested in advancing to leadership or management roles within fire departments. The degree provides skills in management, leadership, and communication, which are valuable in these roles.

9. Is business administration a good major for military officers?

Yes, a business administration degree is suitable for aspiring military officers. The degree provides essential skills in leadership, management, communication, and strategic planning, which are valuable for military roles and for transitioning to civilian careers.

10. Is business administration hard?

The difficulty of a business administration degree depends on the student's abilities, study habits, and interests. While the degree requires significant coursework and competition for resources, it also offers rewarding career opportunities for those willing to work hard and develop a range of skills.

11. Is business administration for you?

If you are interested in developing skills in strategic planning, operations management, financial management, and leadership, and are keen on pursuing a versatile and rewarding career, a business administration degree could be a good fit for you. It also serves as a solid foundation for further studies and specialized roles in various fields.