Is a Business Degree Worth It for 2025?

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Overnight business success is, in reality, the result of years of taking strategic risks, persevering, and learning by trial and error. Many accomplished entrepreneurs have mastered the art and science of business either by going into the trade head-on or by getting a business degree first to build a solid foundation. However, you may wonder, “Is a business degree worth it when many have established successful companies without it?"

Notably, by 2019, most company owners in the United States were bachelor’s degree holders. At least 1,188,000 of them had bachelor’s degrees as their highest attained level of education (US Census Bureau, 2021). Many prominent business figures have also earned business degrees specifically.

To help aspiring entrepreneurs assess the merit of business degrees, the Research.com team wrote this in-depth guide exploring business degree salary potential and career opportunities, the best business schools and programs in the U.S., and the criteria to help you determine if the postsecondary education route is right for you.

Is a Business Degree Worth It? Table of Contents

Career Opportunities and Salaries for Business-degree Earners
Why Take Up a Business Degree
The Best Business Schools and Degree Programs in the U.S.
How Can I Secure Financial Aid for a Business Degree?
What Key Metrics Should You Consider When Evaluating a Business Degree Program?
The Return on Investment of a Business Degree
Are Accelerated MBA Programs a Viable Option for Your Career?
What Benefits Can a Specialized MBA in Project Management Provide?
What are the potential challenges of pursuing a business degree?
What Sets Accelerated MBA Programs Apart from Conventional Paths?
How to Know if a Business Degree is Right for You
How do online business degrees compare to traditional programs?
What is the Future Job Outlook for Business Graduates?
Emerging Trends in Business Education and Degree Programs

Career Opportunities and Salaries for Business-degree Earners

Business degree graduates may be equipped to take different business career paths with good salaries. As employees, they may land business degree jobs in sales, marketing, and operations and work their way up to management positions in different business types, including startups, non-profit organizations, and large corporations. They may also venture into various industries, such as advertising, real estate, and manufacturing.

In general, the median annual salaries of sales agents from some industries are either more than or almost equal to that of the recorded full-time employees across the U.S. On the one hand, the median annual wage of 118.8 million full-time employees in the country was $52,080, based on median weekly earnings of $1,085, in the fourth quarter of 2022 (US BLS, 2023). On the other hand, the 2021 median annual salary of wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives was $62,890; advertising sales agents had $52,340; and real estate sales agents had $48,770 (US BLS, 2022).

Business-degree earners may also become successful employers or profitable sole proprietors without employees. In the next section, our research team discusses how a business degree may benefit you if your goal is to become a company of one or to start your own small to mid-sized business.

Why Take Up a Business Degree

So, is a business degree worth it? This is a hard and ultimately personal question to answer. But ensuring that you will make the best decision for yourself in terms of your college education is important for your career, no matter the path you decide to take. Understanding the three benefits of studying business can be one of your first steps.

You Will Develop the Necessary Skills

Like a bachelor degree in economics, business degree courses may help you hone your technical abilities and soft skills. Since a business requires many different functions to be able to run efficiently, business schools aim to ensure that their students receive a well-rounded education.

In business school, students learn management strategies in terms of internal operations, marketing, accounting, and human resources, among other key areas. They also get opportunities for communication and collaboration with their peers and gain a deep understanding of ethical business practices.

You Can Establish Your Initial Professional Network

The academic environment is organized in a way that individuals are enabled to build meaningful connections with fellow students, professors, and organizations they encounter throughout their undergraduate and graduate stay. Having a healthy social network can help students progress in their careers.

For instance, recommendations from your mentors may help you get a job or get accepted into a graduate program. You might also find that your peers have the same values and career goals as yours; working together and complementing one another’s strengths and areas for improvement may be advantageous in laying the groundwork for a new business.

You Can Increase Your Employability and Income Potential

In 2020, employees with a bachelor’s degree had a median weekly salary of $1,305, which is 67% higher than the median weekly earnings of workers with only a high school diploma ($781). Bachelor’s degree holders also have a lower unemployment rate (5.5%) than high school graduates (9%) (US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021). Thus, it can be said that college graduates have greater employability and salary potential.

You Can Become an Industry Leader

Famous figures in business, such as Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg, have become successful entrepreneurs even without graduating from college. Meanwhile, several prominent leaders have experienced the benefits of the skills and connections that they gained, thanks to their business degrees.

Warren Buffett
Warren Buffett is the chairman and CEO of American holding company Berkshire Hathaway and is one of the most successful investors in the world. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Nebraska in 1950 and his master’s degree in economics from Columbia University in 1951 (Encyclopedia Britannica, 2023). Over the decades, Buffett has grown his net worth to over $106 billion (Fleck, 2023) with the help of his famous investment principles and strategy, the basis of which is value investing.

Buffett shared in a 2001 Nebraska Business article that the best undergraduate experience he had was at the University of Nebraska, when his classes were up to par, and he had good relationships with his professors. However, for him, nothing goes above his time at Columbia University, where he was mentored by professor and investor Benjamin Graham.

Mark Cuban
Mark Cuban is currently the owner of the Dallas Mavericks of the National Basketball Association and is part of the panel of investors in the business reality television series Shark Tank. He graduated with a business degree from Indiana University in 1980, co-founded Broadcast.com in 1995, and sold the online streaming service to Yahoo! in 1999. The sale made him a billionaire and enabled him to purchase several companies, including the Dallas Mavericks, in 2000 (Encyclopedia Britannica, 2023).

The Best US Business Schools and Degree Programs

Our research team compiled the best schools and the best undergraduate and graduate degree programs on a list below. The list details the degree programs available, the most common degree courses included, and the price of a bachelor’s degree and a graduate degree per academic institution. You can also check our guide on the most affordable mba programs to get an idea of the cost of going to business school.

Academic Institutions with the Best Undergraduate Degree Programs

1. University of Nebraska
University of Nebraska’s College of Business provides interested undergraduate applicants with 11 major areas of study to choose from, including accounting, business and law, business administration, finance, and marketing. Business students are required to complete coursework in three areas: (1) non-business requirements, (2) business core, and (3) electives. To graduate, students must earn a minimum of 120 semester hours of credit.

Cost of Attendance:

Resident: $21,474$28,594
Non-resident: $39,114$46,234

2. Harvard University
Harvard University offers a bachelor of liberal arts degree in business administration and management. The program was established to cater to individuals with years of professional experience, giving them the option to attend part-time, on campus, or online. Through the program, students are provided with the opportunity to learn about business, economics, and psychology, among other areas of concentration. The average student enrolled in the program is 34 years old and takes two courses per semester, as 80% of the students work full-time.

Cost of Attendance: $31,680$63,360

Academic Institutions with the Best Graduate Degree Programs

1. Stanford Graduate School of Business
Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB) offers only graduate degrees through its four programs: (1) a master of business administration (MBA) program, (2) the MSx program, (3) a doctoral program, and (4) a Research Fellows program. So, how long does it take to get a degree in business, and what does one entail?

The two-year MBA program includes core requirements, such as data analysis, financial accounting, and managerial skills. The one-year MSx program is an accelerated master’s program with courses including organizational behavior, marketing, and operations.

Stanford GSB’s PhD program offers seven different fields of study: accounting, economic analysis and policy, finance, marketing, operations, information, and technology; organizational behavior, and political economics. Meanwhile, its Research Fellows program is a two-year predoctoral program funded by the university to hone students in research and doctoral studies in the field.

Cost of Attendance:

MBA: $124,389$149,532 annually
MSx: $193,685$226,517

2. University of Chicago Booth School of Business
University of Chicago Booth School of Business offers three graduate programs: an MBA program, a PhD program, and the Executive Education program. MBA students may decide to attend full-time, during evenings, during weekends, or through the Global Executive MBA program. The MBA program focuses on foundation areas—financial accounting, microeconomics, and statistics—as well as functions, leadership and management, and business environment.

Chicago Booth’s PhD programs offer seven dissertation areas: (1) accounting, (2) behavioral science, (3) econometrics and statistics, (4) economics, (5) finance, (6) management science and operations management, (7) and marketing. Meanwhile, the Executive Education programs provide formats for individuals and organizations. Individual students have the option to apply for the university’s leadership and executive management programs, finance programs, and strategy, innovation, and analytics programs.

Cost of Attendance:

MBA (two-year program): $155,682
PhD (three quarters): $103,377

3. Harvard Business School
Harvard Business School offers an MBA program, the Executive Education program, as well as several doctoral programs. Harvard’s two-year, full-time MBA program is supported by a comprehensive case- and experience-based curriculum that includes technology and operations management, strategy, finance, leadership and organizational behavior, and electives.

Meanwhile, the Executive Education program offers programs for individuals and organizations. Individuals may attend comprehensive leadership programs, topic-focused programs, regional programs, and virtual programs. Organizations are allowed to create custom programs that are based on their business goals and challenges. They may have their programs conducted virtually, in person, or in both formats.

Cost of Attendance: MBA (Nine Months): $112,764$157,308

How Can I Secure Financial Aid for a Business Degree?

To manage the expenses associated with higher education, exploring comprehensive financial aid options is crucial. Investigate various scholarship opportunities, grants, and federal loan programs specifically tailored for business students. Employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs and state-specific aid can also substantially reduce out-of-pocket costs. Additionally, opting for an online business degree can further alleviate financial pressures by minimizing campus-related expenses. Early financial planning and direct engagement with institutional financial aid offices are essential strategies to ensure a sustainable investment in your education.

What Key Metrics Should You Consider When Evaluating a Business Degree Program?

When assessing business degree programs, focus on measurable outcomes that reflect program quality and long-term benefits. Key considerations include accreditation status, program completion rates, and career placement statistics, which provide insight into the institution’s commitment to academic rigor and student success. Evaluate the average starting salaries and career progression of alumni to gauge the program’s impact on employability. Additionally, reviewing faculty credentials and industry partnerships can highlight a program’s capacity to deliver contemporary, practical knowledge. For a comparative look at graduate-level outcomes, refer to the best business master's degrees.

The Return on Investment of a Business Degree

A business degree is often considered a significant investment, but the return on that investment (ROI) is something many prospective students ponder before committing to the expense. Understanding the financial benefits of obtaining a business degree, especially in today's rapidly evolving job market, can provide clarity for those unsure whether the upfront cost is worth the potential returns.

Evaluating ROI—Cost vs. Earnings Potential

The financial return on a business degree varies depending on several factors, including the institution, specialization, location, and career path pursued. According to recent studies, business degree holders often see a substantial increase in their lifetime earnings compared to those without a degree. For instance, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual earnings for someone with a bachelor’s degree is around $1,305 per week, while those with only a high school diploma earn a median of $781 weekly—a 67% higher income for degree holders.

Graduates from top-tier business schools can expect even higher earnings, with many earning salaries above $100,000 annually, depending on their roles and industries. However, it’s important to note that salaries vary by sector. For example, finance and consulting professionals often enjoy higher starting salaries than those in marketing or operations management.

To make an informed decision, prospective students should also factor in other financial considerations, such as financial aid, scholarships, and opportunities to work while attending school.

Online Business Degrees Offer Affordability with High ROI

An important option to consider is the growing number of online business degrees, which offer students a cost-effective way to obtain a business education without the added expenses of on-campus living and commuting. Many online MBA programs under 10K provide rigorous curricula and accreditation, giving students the same qualifications at a fraction of the cost. These programs allow you to balance work and study, reducing the financial burden while still reaping the long-term benefits of an advanced business education.

Ultimately, the ROI of a business degree can be substantial, but it depends on how well it aligns with your career goals and financial situation. The key is to weigh the initial cost against the long-term benefits, both financial and professional, to determine if the degree will yield a positive return in your specific field.

Are Accelerated MBA Programs a Viable Option for Your Career?

Accelerated MBA programs offer a condensed curriculum designed to fast‐track professional growth, combining rigorous coursework with intensive learning environments. These programs are structured for individuals with professional experience who seek rapid career advancement without compromising academic quality. Prospective candidates should evaluate factors such as program accreditation, peer networking opportunities, and practical exposure to industry challenges. For those considering a compressed learning model, exploring options such as 1 year MBA programs can provide insight into the benefits and demands of an accelerated business education.

What Benefits Can a Specialized MBA in Project Management Provide?

Pursuing a specialized MBA in project management equips professionals with a targeted skill set essential for overseeing complex projects and optimizing business operations. This focused track builds on core business principles while deepening expertise in risk management, scheduling, budgeting, and stakeholder communication. By integrating agile methodologies and strategic planning, graduates can navigate challenges within diverse industries and lead cross-functional teams with greater efficiency. Earning a specialized credential can also differentiate candidates in competitive job markets, often resulting in enhanced career opportunities and higher earning potential. For those exploring advanced credentials, consider the affordable online MBA project management as a pathway to develop these crucial skills.

What are the potential challenges of pursuing a business degree?

While a business degree can open numerous doors, it is important to recognize potential challenges that may affect career outcomes. Evolving industry standards may render some traditional curricula less aligned with rapidly advancing technologies and market shifts. Additionally, rising tuition costs and the burden of student debt can influence the financial viability of the degree. Prospective students should also consider that program reputation and networking opportunities can vary widely, potentially impacting long-term career prospects. Evaluating alternative, flexible options—such as the most affordable online MBA no GMAT—can offer a cost-effective means to navigate these challenges without compromising academic quality.

What Sets Accelerated MBA Programs Apart from Conventional Paths?

Accelerated MBA programs offer a condensed curriculum designed to fast‐track career progression by delivering comprehensive business insights in a shortened timeframe. These programs focus on intensive, practical learning that equips professionals with leadership, financial, and strategic skills, enabling them to re-enter the workforce with enhanced qualifications sooner than traditional routes allow. The format emphasizes real-world application through case studies and project-based assignments, ensuring that participants can immediately implement advanced business strategies in dynamic environments. For a closer look at these fast-tracked opportunities, consider exploring one-year MBA programs.

How to Know if a Business Degree is Right for You

Deciding on a business degree can be difficult, considering the many credible academic institutions with decent program designs and faculty. Many online schools for business degrees are also becoming popular alternatives to expensive on-campus programs. Conducting your own research in terms of the following criteria may help you narrow down your choices and finally determine the best business school and degree program for you.

The curriculum includes areas of study that interest you. You must take on the task of deeply understanding the career path that you want to take and the career goals you aim to achieve. For instance, you can choose to major in finance, marketing, or business administration, among other business specializations. Considering your preferences as you create your selection of schools ensures that the degree courses included in your program options are aligned with your own goals.
The professors are esteemed. Learning from credible teachers may support the development of your knowledge and skills in business, as is the case with Warren Buffett and his mentor, Benjamin Graham. You may search for faculty details on the official websites of your preferred academic institutions or contact the institutions themselves for more information.
The business degree is within your budget. An unstable financial standing may hinder you from completing your degree program. It is important that you secure your educational fund or a source of income to support yourself throughout the program. Fortunately, many academic institutions offer affordable business degree programs online. Moreover, there are plenty of institutions that provide students with financial aid, such as scholarships, loans, and government grants. If you are employed, you may contact your employer to inquire about your company’s educational assistance programs.

How do online business degrees compare to traditional programs?

With the rise of flexible education options, many prospective students weigh the benefits of pursuing an online business degree versus attending a traditional on-campus program. Both formats offer distinct advantages, and the best choice depends on individual needs, goals, and circumstances.

Online business degree programs excel in flexibility, enabling students to balance their education with work, family, or other commitments. These programs are often more affordable than traditional ones, as they eliminate costs associated with commuting, housing, and campus fees. Moreover, the digital format can cater to a global audience, allowing learners to engage with diverse perspectives and access instructors from different parts of the world.

On the other hand, traditional programs may provide more immediate access to in-person networking opportunities and campus resources such as libraries, career centers, and student organizations. These aspects can be particularly appealing to individuals who value face-to-face interactions.

When considering an online program, it’s essential to evaluate its accreditation and reputation to ensure it meets industry standards. For those pondering whether online degrees are a worthy investment, the article Are Online Degrees Worth It? offers valuable insights into their growing acceptance in the professional world.

Ultimately, the decision boils down to personal preferences, learning style, and career objectives. Both online and traditional business degrees can equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the modern business landscape.

What is the Future Job Outlook for Business Graduates?

Business graduates can expect an evolving job market driven by digital transformation, automation, and global economic shifts. Increasing reliance on data analytics, digital marketing, and financial technology has led to emerging roles that blend traditional business knowledge with technical competencies. Innovative programs that include flexible delivery methods—such as the online business administration degree—enable graduates to quickly adapt to these changes. Employers are increasingly seeking professionals who combine strategic thinking with technological proficiency, positioning business degree holders for sustained long-term career advancement.

Emerging Trends in Business Education and Degree Programs

The landscape of business education is constantly evolving to meet the demands of a dynamic job market. Here are some of the latest trends shaping business degree programs:

Rise of Online Learning: Many institutions now offer fully online business programs, including the cheapest online business administration degree options, making education more accessible and affordable.
Focus on Entrepreneurship: Programs are increasingly emphasizing entrepreneurial skills, with courses designed to help students launch and manage their own businesses.
Integration of Technology: Business schools are incorporating cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, data analytics, and blockchain into their curricula.
Global Business Perspective: Many programs now include international business courses and study-abroad opportunities to prepare students for a globalized economy.
Sustainability and Social Impact: Business degrees are shifting focus toward ethical leadership and sustainable practices to meet growing demands for corporate responsibility.
Flexible Degree Formats: Accelerated, part-time, and hybrid degree options are becoming more common to accommodate working professionals and diverse student needs.
Industry Collaboration: Programs are partnering with companies to provide real-world projects, internships, and mentorship opportunities that align with industry trends.
Personalized Learning Paths: Business schools are offering more specialization tracks, allowing students to tailor their education to specific career goals, such as finance, marketing, or supply chain management.

These trends are redefining business education, ensuring that graduates are prepared to thrive in a rapidly changing professional landscape.

Achieve Entrepreneurial Success with a Business Degree

If you plan to enter the workforce or build a business as soon as possible, you may consider going through accelerated online degree programs. As long as you are open to learning from mentors, your own experiences, and your own mistakes, the duration of your business degree program may not matter.

In the long run, perseverance is key. Take it from the famous KFC founder, Colonel Sanders. He had lost many jobs and failed in business earlier in his life. It was not until the age of 40 that he started his global fried chicken brand, proving that the path to success is often nonlinear. You must plan and move forward—strategically. As Warren Buffett advises, “…don’t look to jump over seven-foot bars…look around for one-foot bars that [you] can step over."

Key Insights

Prevalence of Degrees: By 2019, most company owners in the U.S. were bachelor’s degree holders, with at least 1,188,000 having attained this level of education.
Salary Potential: Business degree graduates often earn competitive salaries, with median annual wages in various industries either meeting or exceeding the national median for full-time employees.
Skill Development: Business degrees help develop essential skills, including management strategies, marketing, accounting, human resources, and ethical business practices.
Professional Network: Business schools provide opportunities to build professional networks, which can be beneficial for career advancement and entrepreneurial endeavors.
Employability and Income: Bachelor’s degree holders generally have higher median weekly earnings and lower unemployment rates compared to those with only a high school diploma.
Prominent Leaders: Many successful business leaders, such as Warren Buffett and Mark Cuban, have benefited from their business degrees, using the skills and connections gained to excel in their careers.
Top Schools: Prestigious institutions like Harvard, Stanford, and the University of Chicago offer highly regarded business programs, with various undergraduate and graduate degree options.
Cost Considerations: The cost of attending top business schools varies significantly, with options for financial aid and more affordable online programs available.
Decision Criteria: When choosing a business degree program, factors to consider include curriculum relevance, faculty credentials, and financial feasibility.

FAQ

1. Is a business degree worth it?

A business degree can be worth it as it equips individuals with essential skills, increases employability, and can lead to higher income potential. It also provides opportunities to build a professional network that can be beneficial for career advancement or entrepreneurial ventures.

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

Business degree graduates can pursue various career paths in sales, marketing, operations, management, and more. They can work in startups, non-profit organizations, large corporations, and various industries such as advertising, real estate, and manufacturing.

3. What are the median salaries for business degree jobs?

Median annual salaries for business degree jobs vary by industry. For example, wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives had a median annual salary of $62,890, advertising sales agents $52,340, and real estate sales agents $48,770 in 2021.

4. How does a business degree help in skill development?

A business degree helps develop both technical abilities and soft skills. Students learn about management, marketing, accounting, human resources, and ethical business practices, and gain opportunities for communication and collaboration.

5. Can a business degree help build a professional network?

Yes, business schools provide an environment conducive to building meaningful connections with fellow students, professors, and organizations, which can aid in career progression and entrepreneurial success.

6. How do business degree holders' salaries compare to those with only a high school diploma?

7. Who are some prominent business leaders with business degrees?

Notable business leaders with business degrees include Warren Buffett, who earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Nebraska and a master’s degree in economics from Columbia University, and Mark Cuban, who graduated with a business degree from Indiana University.

8. What are the costs associated with attending top business schools?

The cost of attending top business schools varies. For example, Harvard's undergraduate business program costs between $31,680 and $63,360, while Stanford's graduate programs range from $124,389 to $226,517 annually. Financial aid and more affordable online programs are also available.

9. What factors should be considered when choosing a business degree program?

Factors to consider include the relevance of the curriculum to your career goals, the credentials of the faculty, and the financial feasibility of the program. It's also important to consider the availability of financial aid and the school's reputation.

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