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Health & Nursing

Courses and certificates.

• Bachelor's Degrees
• View all Business Bachelor's Degrees

Business Management – B.S. Business Administration

Healthcare Administration – B.S.

Human Resource Management – B.S. Business Administration

• Information Technology Management – B.S. Business Administration

Marketing – B.S.

Accounting – B.S. Business Administration

Finance – B.S.

• Supply Chain and Operations Management – B.S.

Communications – B.S.

User Experience Design – B.S.

• Accelerated Information Technology Bachelor's and Master's Degree (from the School of Technology)
• Health Information Management – B.S. (from the Leavitt School of Health)
• View all Business Degrees

Master's Degrees

• View all Business Master's Degrees
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)

MBA Information Technology Management

MBA Healthcare Management

Management and Leadership – M.S.

Accounting – M.S.

Marketing – M.S.

Human Resource Management – M.S.

• Master of Healthcare Administration (from the Leavitt School of Health)
• Data Analytics – M.S. (from the School of Technology)
• Information Technology Management – M.S. (from the School of Technology)
• Education Technology and Instructional Design – M.Ed. (from the School of Education)

Certificates

• Supply Chain
• Accounting Fundamentals
• Digital Marketing and E-Commerce

Bachelor's Preparing For Licensure

• View all Education Bachelor's Degrees
• Elementary Education – B.A.
• Special Education and Elementary Education (Dual Licensure) – B.A.
• Special Education (Mild-to-Moderate) – B.A.
• Mathematics Education (Secondary)– B.S.
• Science Education (Secondary Chemistry) – B.S.
• Science Education (Secondary Physics) – B.S.
• Science Education (Secondary Biological Sciences) – B.S.
• Science Education (Secondary Earth Science)– B.S.
• View all Education Degrees

Bachelor of Arts in Education Degrees

• Educational Studies – B.A.

Master of Science in Education Degrees

• View all Education Master's Degrees
• Curriculum and Instruction – M.S.
• Educational Leadership – M.S.

Education Technology and Instructional Design – M.Ed.

Master's Preparing for Licensure

• Teaching, Elementary Education – M.A.
• Teaching, English Education (Secondary) – M.A.
• Teaching, Mathematics Education (Secondary) – M.A.
• Teaching, Science Education (Secondary) – M.A.
• Teaching, Special Education (K-12) – M.A.

Licensure Information

• State Teaching Licensure Information

Master's Degrees for Teachers

• Mathematics Education (K-6) – M.A.
• Mathematics Education (Middle Grade) – M.A.
• Mathematics Education (Secondary) – M.A.
• English Language Learning (PreK-12) – M.A.
• Endorsement Preparation Program, English Language Learning (PreK-12)
• Science Education (Middle Grades) – M.A.
• Science Education (Secondary Chemistry) – M.A.
• Science Education (Secondary Physics) – M.A.
• Science Education (Secondary Biological Sciences) – M.A.
• Science Education (Secondary Earth Science)– M.A.
• View all Technology Bachelor's Degrees
• Cloud Computing – B.S.
• Computer Science – B.S.
• Cybersecurity and Information Assurance – B.S.
• Data Analytics – B.S.
• Information Technology – B.S.
• Network Engineering and Security – B.S.
• Software Engineering – B.S.

Accelerated Information Technology Bachelor's and Master's Degree

• Information Technology Management – B.S. Business Administration (from the School of Business)
• User Experience Design – B.S. (from the School of Business)
• View all Technology Master's Degrees
• Cybersecurity and Information Assurance – M.S.

Data Analytics – M.S.

Information Technology Management – M.S.

• MBA Information Technology Management (from the School of Business)
• Full Stack Engineering
• Front End Web Developer with CodeSignal
• Java Developer with CodeSignal
• ServiceNow Application Developer
• Data Analytics Skills
• Artificial Intelligence (Single Course)

3rd Party Certifications

• IT Certifications Included in WGU Degrees
• View all Technology Degrees
• View all Health & Nursing Bachelor's Degrees
• Nursing (RN-to-BSN online) – B.S.
• Nursing (Prelicensure) – B.S. (Available in select states)

Health Information Management – B.S.

• Health and Human Services – B.S.
• Psychology – B.S.
• Health Science – B.S.
• Public Health – B.S.
• Healthcare Administration – B.S. (from the School of Business)
• Nursing Leadership
• Nursing Education—Post-Master's Certificate
• Nursing Leadership and Management—Post-Master's Certificate
• Family Nurse Practitioner—Post-Master's Certificate
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner —Post-Master's Certificate
• View all Health & Nursing Degrees
• View all Nursing & Health Master's Degrees
• Nursing – Education (BSN-to-MSN Program) – M.S.
• Nursing – Leadership and Management (BSN-to-MSN Program) – M.S.
• Nursing – Nursing Informatics (BSN-to-MSN Program) – M.S.
• Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (BSN-to-MSN Program) – M.S. (Available in select states)
• Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BSN-to-MSN Program) – M.S. (Available in select states)
• Nursing – Education (RN-to-MSN Program) – M.S.
• Nursing – Leadership and Management (RN-to-MSN Program) – M.S.
• Nursing – Nursing Informatics (RN-to-MSN Program) – M.S.

Master of Healthcare Administration

• Master of Public Health
• MBA Healthcare Management (from the School of Business)
• Business Leadership (with the School of Business)
• Supply Chain (with the School of Business)
• Accounting Fundamentals (with the School of Business)
• Digital Marketing and E-Commerce (with the School of Business)
• Java Developer (with CodeSignal and the School of Technology)
• Front End Web Developer (with CodeSignal and the School of Technology)
• Full Stack Engineering (with the School of Technology)
• ServiceNow Application Developer (with the School of Technology)
• Data Analytics Skills (with the School of Technology)
• Artificial Intelligence (Single Course with the School of Technology)
• Nursing Leadership (with the Leavitt School of Health)
• Single Courses

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WGU School of Business

Change your life with an online business degree, business catalog.

Sandra, MBA grad

ONLINE BUSINESS DEGREES

Choose the Right Business Degree for You

Our online bachelor’s and master’s programs are accredited and give you the option to figure out which program best suits your educational needs. WGU business courses offer real-world application, the ability to graduate faster, and industry relevancy so you can pursue your career goals.

EMPLOYER SATISFACTION

98% of employers included in a 2023  Harris Poll Survey said WGU grads met or exceeded expectations.

EXCELLENCE AND RESPECT

Many WGU School of Business programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

GUIDED BY A MENTOR

A program mentor will be your guide, providing help and motivation throughout your WGU experience.

Business Bachelor's Degrees Online

Have a knack for numbers or fine-tuning finances?...

Have a knack for numbers or fine-tuning finances?

• Time: 62% of graduates finish within 24 months
• Tuition:  $3,755 per 6-month term
• Courses: 41 courses in this program

Skills for your résumé you will learn in this program include:

• Financial Statements
• Communication
• Detail Oriented

Take your first step toward CPA certification and learn how to use GAAP, ledgers, and journals.

Hone your business acumen and garner added respect:...

Hone your business acumen and garner added respect:

• Time: 61% of graduates finish within 19 months
• Tuition:  $3,755 per 6-month term
• Courses : 40 total courses in this program

Skills for your résumé this program will teach you include: 

• Business communication
• Product development
• Decision making models
• Project management strategies
• Budgeting for business

This online degree program is an excellent choice for kick-starting your organizational management career.

An online communications program designed for students who want real-world...

An online communications program designed for students who want real-world skills for a variety of industries.

• Time:  60% of students finish similar programs in 19 months.
• Courses:  38 total courses in this program

Skills for your résumé you will learn in this program:

• Strategic Communications
• Crisis Communication
• Content Creation
• Value-Based Leadership
• Project Management

This degree prepares you with relevant industry skills and experience that will help you move forward in your career.

This online finance program is career-focused so you will gain relevant...

This online finance program is career-focused so you will gain relevant industry skills.

• Time: 62% of graduates finish similar programs within 24 months

Some careers and jobs this business degree will prepare you for:

• Spreadsheets
• Financial Analysis
• Problem Solving

The competency-based model at WGU allows you to move as quickly as you can master the material, and do your coursework on your schedule. Flexibility is key with the B.S. in finance at WGU.

You can become a healthcare industry leader:...

You can become a healthcare industry leader:

Compare with B.S. Health Information Management

• Time: 63% of graduates finish within 17 months
• Tuition:  $3,755 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 40 total courses in this program.

Skills for your résumé you will learn in this program include: 

• Team Leadership
• Strategic Planning

The online courses in this career-focused business degree program will prepare you with management-level skills and an up-to-date understanding of our healthcare delivery system.

A SHRM-recognized online business degree program:...

A SHRM-recognized online business degree program:

• Time: 65% of graduates finish within 24 months.
• Courses: 41 total courses in this program.
• Agile project management
• Employment and labor laws
• Recruiting strategies
• HR technology
• DE&I understanding

Earn your B.S. in Human Resources and help build strong organizations.

IT Management – B.S. Business Administration

IT managers are needed in nearly every organization:...

IT managers are needed in nearly every organization:

• Courses: 40 total courses in this program
• Operations Management
• Agile Project Management
• Analytical Techniques
• Information Technology

Key competencies of these online courses align with industry needs: management and leadership, networks and security, and information systems management.

For those who want to lead brands and steer consumer markets:...

For those who want to lead brands and steer consumer markets:

• Time: 60% of graduates finish within 19 months.
• Courses: 37 total courses in this program.
• Product Management

Marketing is a creative and exciting field—and one where an undergraduate degree will open better opportunities.

Supply Chain and Operations Management - B.S.

This online supply chain and operations management program will prepare...

This online supply chain and operations management program will prepare you for real-world experiences in business.

• Time: 61% of graduates finish similar programs within 19 months.
• Courses:  36 courses in this program.

Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:

• Strategic Planning
• Operations:

An online UX Design program designed for students who want to become...

An online UX Design program designed for students who want to become business-savvy designers that can generate best-in-class, customer-centric products and services.

• Time:  60% of students finish similar programs in 19 months.
• Wireframing and Prototyping
• Artificial Intelligence
• Accessible Design
• Figma Design Software
• UI/UX Research
• User Testing
• Adobe Express

Earn both your bachelor’s in IT and master’s in IT management at a faster...

Earn both your bachelor’s in IT and master’s in IT management at a faster pace with fewer courses.

• Time: Approximately 5 years.
• Tuition : $3,835 per 6-month term for the bachelor's degree; $4,040 per term for the master's portion.
• Courses: 42 total courses in this program.

Certifications included in this program at no additional cost:

• CompTIA A+ 
• CompTIA Network+ 
• CompTIA Security+ 
• CompTIA IT Operations Specialist
• CompTIA Secure Infrastructure Specialist 
• Amazon AWS Cloud Practitioner
• ITIL®*^ Foundation Certification
• LPI Linux Essentials
• Scripting and programming
• Networking and security
• Systems and services
• Data management
• Business of IT

This program allows students to earn their bachelor's degree in IT and move directly into a master's degree in IT management, cutting down on the total number of courses to complete.

A program designed for future leaders in HIM....

A program designed for future leaders in HIM.

• Time:  61% of grads earned this degree in 36 months or less.
• Tuition:  $4,210 per 6-month term.
• Courses : 36 total courses in this program.
• Medical Terminology
• Healthcare System Applications
• Health Information Law and Regulations
• Healthcare Project Management
• Data Analytics and Information Governance

This CAHIIM-accredited program makes you eligible for the RHIA exam. 

Compare with B.S. Business – Healthcare Management

Business Master's Degrees Online

Master of Business Administration

The flexible MBA program you need, focused on business management,...

The flexible MBA program you need, focused on business management, strategy, and leading teams:

• Time:  Graduates can finish in 12 months
• Tuition:  $4,755 per 6-month term
• Courses: 11 total courses in this program
• Leadership strategies
• Talent management
• Data collection and interpretation
• Financial statements

Our competency-based model gives you an innovative learning experience you won't find anywhere else—and our MBA grads tell us they loved accelerating their program to see a faster ROI.

Prepare for a career leading private or public healthcare organizations....

Prepare for a career leading private or public healthcare organizations.

• Time:  WGU lets you set a schedule so you can finish your MBA in just one year.
• Tuition:  $4,755 per 6-month term.
• Courses : 11 total courses in this program.
• Regulatory compliance
• Patient care improvement
• Service line development
• Healthcare trends
• Health policy and legislation

Healthcare is big business in today's complex economy.  Steer your career with this specialty MBA.

Compare online business degrees

This program is not the only online business degree WGU offers that is designed to create leaders in the field of healthcare. Compare our health leadership degrees.

Earn the online college degree that can move your career into IT upper...

Earn the online college degree that can move your career into IT upper management:

Sample careers and jobs this business degree will prepare you for:

• Communications
• Information Systems Security

Learn to navigate emergencies, execute strategies, and optimize systems with the competencies within this specialty MBA.

Become better qualified to pursue a greater variety of public and private...

Become better qualified to pursue a greater variety of public and private accounting positions:

• Time:  62% of grads finish within 19 months.
• Courses:  10-11 total courses in this program

This program offers 4 unique specializations for students to choose from, allowing you to gain specific experience and skills that will help you in your career. Choose from concentrations in taxation, auditing, management accounting, and financial reporting to boost your résumé.

Skills for your résumé that this program will prepare you for: 

• Tax Planning
• Financial Management
• Data Analysis
• This MAcc program is designed to prepare you for the CPA exam and also the CMA or CIA exams.

A SHRM-recognized master's degree in human resource management...

A SHRM-recognized master's degree in human resource management

• Time:  61% of graduates finish this program within 18 months.
• Courses:  10 total courses in this program

Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program include: 

• Performance Management
• Talent Acquisition
• Human Resource Information System (HRIS)

Earn your M.S. in Human Resources and help companies create excellent cultures.

An online master's degree focused on change management, innovation, and...

An online master's degree focused on change management, innovation, and leading teams:

• Time: 60% of graduates can finish in 17 months.
• Courses: 10 total courses in this program

Skills for your résumé that this program will teach you:

• Coordinating
• Performance Management 

Develop a comprehensive suite of leadership skills and your confidence to navigate changing business structures.

Two online marketing master's degree options with a focus on either...

Two online marketing master's degree options with a focus on either digital marketing or marketing analytics.

• Time:  61% of graduates finish WGU master's programs in 18 months
• Specialization:  Students choose from two specializations to focus their marketing studies on digital marketing or marketing analytics
• Digital Marketing Analytics
• Presentations
• Market Research

A marketing master's degree will help you prepare for a wide range of exciting marketing careers.

Lead businesses with strong analysis skills:...

Lead businesses with strong analysis skills:

• Time:  61% of graduates finish within 20 months.
• Tuition:  $4,520 per 6-month term.
• Courses:  11 total courses in this program.

This program consists of three specialization areas which allow you to gain specific experience and skills that will benefit your future career. You can choose from data science , data engineering , and decision process engineering specializations to enhance your degree.

• Data Modeling
• Business Intelligence
• Data Quality

A degree for experienced IT professionals ready to lead....

A degree for experienced IT professionals ready to lead.

• Time:  60% of graduates finish within 18 months.
• Tuition:  $4,040 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 10 total courses in this program.

Included in your program—at no extra cost—is the opportunity to earn the valuable  PMI Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification .

• Technology operations and integration
• Sourcing and planning
• Risks and influence
• Solutions development
• Project management

Maximize the opportunities that your IT career path has afforded you—earn your master's and keep moving up. 

A master's focused on managing comprehensive, value-based care, directly...

A master's focused on managing comprehensive, value-based care, directly in line with innovations in health and healthcare.

• Time:  60% of grads finish within 21 months. 
• Tuition:  $4,995 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 12 total courses in this program.
• Collaborative Leadership
• Healthcare Models and Systems
• Healthcare Financial Management
• Enterprise Risk Management
• Healthcare Information Technology

Your rich experience in a health-related field can mean more when you bring a master's level of understanding to the problems that organizations need to solve.

Compare degrees

This program is not the only degree WGU offers designed to create leaders in the field of healthcare. Compare our health leadership degrees.

The M.Ed. in Education Technology and Instructional Design from WGU is for...

The M.Ed. in Education Technology and Instructional Design from WGU is for instructional designers tasked with creating engaging and immersive virtual learning experiences that can substitute for on-ground instruction.

No teaching license required.

• Time: 62% of students finish this program in 10 months.
• Tuition:  $4,125 per 6-month term
• Courses:  12 total courses in this program.

This program includes two tracks for students to choose from:

• The K-12 pathway
• The Adult Learner pathway

Skills for your résumé included in this program:

• Learning Experience Design
• Assessment and Learning Analytics
• Learning Technology
• Research Methodology

Develop training and instruction expertise to help you in the classroom, in educational settings, or in corporate world.

Business Certificates

Accounting Fundamentals Certificate – School of Business

Enhance your résumé and showcase your skills with an accounting...

Enhance your résumé and showcase your skills with an accounting fundamentals certificate from the School of Business.

• Time : 6 months from start to finish.
• Cost : $2,000 for the certificate.
• Courses : 5 courses total in this program.

This program is designed for individuals who want to boost their résumé with the help of an accounting fundamentals certificate from WGU’s School of Business.

Whether you want to advance your career in this field, or you're just getting started, an accounting fundamentals certificate can help you be ready for your next career step. You'll be prepared to work in a variety of industries including: 

• Manufacturing

Digital Marketing and E-Commerce Certificate – School of Business

Enhance your résumé and showcase your skills with a digital marketing and...

Enhance your résumé and showcase your skills with a digital marketing and e-commerce certificate from the School of Business.

• Time : 4 months from start to finish.
• Cost : $2,250 for the certificate.
• Courses : 4 courses total in this program.

This program is designed for individuals who want to boost their résumé with the help of a digital marketing and e-commerce certificate from WGU’s School of Business.

Whether you want to advance your career in this field, or you're just getting started, a digital marketing and e-commerce certificate can help you be ready for your next career step. You'll be prepared to work in a variety of industries including: 

Leadership Certificate – School of Business

Enhance your résumé and take a step in your educational journey with the...

Enhance your résumé and take a step in your educational journey with the help of a leadership certificate from the School of Business.

• Time: 4 months from start to finish.
• Cost:  $1,125 for the certificate.
• Courses: 3 courses total in this program.

This program is for emerging leaders, however this program does not require a bachelor’s degree, and provides transferable credit towards a WGU degree program.

Whether you aspire to work for a Fortune 500 organization, a government agency, a non-profit organization, or a fast-paced start-up, this certificate can give you the keys to success in a variety of industries, including:

• Finance and Banking

Supply Chain Certificate – School of Business

Boost your résumé and gain valuable experience with a supply chain...

Boost your résumé and gain valuable experience with a supply chain certificate from the School of Business.

• Time: 6 months from start to finish.
• Cost:  $2,500 for the certificate.
• Courses:  4 courses total in this program.

This program is designed for individuals who are ready to take their supply chain experience to the next level and become a front-line leader in their organization.

Whether you want to advance your career in this field, or you're just getting started, a supply chain certificate can help you be ready for your next career step. You'll be prepared to work in a variety of industries including: 

Business Degrees To Help Boost Your Salary

A business degree should be worth the cost. Our degree programs have proven to provide a great return on investment. In fact, WGU grads see an average salary increase of $22,200 within just two years of graduation.* Great ROI and higher pay—a business degree from WGU is your foundation for career progression. * WGU 2023 Annual Report

See Real Student Stories

Find a Scholarship

WGU vs. Traditional Universities Compare the Difference

Traditional Universities

AVG. yearly tuition For BACHELOR’S DEGREES

AVG. yearly tuition For MASTER’S DEGREES

TUITION STRUCTURE

Per credit hour

Flat rate per 6-month term

A counselor you have to schedule time with

An individual Program Mentor who knows your goals and schedule

Scheduled time

Whenever you feel ready

Professor led lectures at a certain time and place

Courses available anytime, from anywhere

* Average yearly bachelor's degree tuition according to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (2022). ** Average yearly master's tuition according to data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (2022).

See a Breakdown of Course Costs

Start Your College Journey at WGU

WGU has built a special, accelerated path for students ages 14-18 with a high school diploma or equivalent, and their families. Now enrolling for this exclusive opportunity.

Business Programs with the Best ROI

It's important to be thoughtful before investing in a degree. Comparing the cost of the program and the ROI you'll get is key in determining if a program is right for you. WGU programs rank extremely highly when it comes to ROI and competitive tuition. Learn more about how we rank when it comes to post-graduate debt and salary levels.

Bachelor of Science

Business Management: 267% ROI

Marketing: 249% ROI

Accounting: 202% ROI

More Resources for Business Students

Should I Get an Online MBA?

Discover how an online MBA can help you boost your career and salary.

How to Become a Market Disruptor

Discover what a market disruptor is and the skills you need to be one.

Meet More WGU Business Alumni 

Learn more about the experiences of distinguished WGU graduates.

What Our Alumni Are Saying

People love their WGU experience. See why it means so much to them, and what makes us different.

"Western Governors University is truly the best. The university is family. They helped me a lot, and I am indeed grateful."

— David Ekpezu, B.S. Business Management grad

"At WGU, it feels more like, 'We are here for you. So whenever you're ready, we're ready.'"

— Andrea Petty, B.S. Marketing grad

"Earning my master’s degree from WGU was an affirmation that I possessed the classical, foundational knowledge one requires to achieve excellent outcomes for themselves in the business world."

— Rob Berg, M.S. Management and Leadership grad

WGU Grads Hold Positions With Top Employers

School of business faqs, what is the best online school for a business degree.

Doing research is crucial when comparing business administration degrees. Things like the cost of the program, the amount of time it will take, and the courses are all important factors when making a decision. But there is more you should think about when making your choice. The amount of debt students have, the amount they are able to earn after they graduate, and how many online students a university has are also extremely important factors in determining which is the best program to meet your needs.

1. Excelsior College ROI: 497% Exclusively Online Students: 25,245 Tuition: $9,180 per year

2. Western Governors University ROI: 267% Exclusively Online Students: 136,139 Tuition: $6,450 per year See WGU's Business Management Program

3. American Public University System ROI: 249% Exclusively Online Students: 45,249 Tuition: $11,550 per year

4. Arizona State University—Skysong ROI: 225% Exclusively Online Students: 43,721 Tuition: $8,550 per year

5. Capella University ROI: 171% Exclusively Online Students: 37,859 Tuition: $10,710 per year

Source: WGU Data

What is the most inexpensive online school for business?

Compare tuition prices for business management programs at online colleges. Other fees may apply, and fees will vary based on degree program and institution. These calculations are made based on 4 year degree programs, with prices listed on an institution's website.

Western Governors University $28,600

Capella University $38,400

Southern New Hampshire University $38,400

Purdue Global University $50,085

University of Phoenix $47,760

Grand Canyon University $56,400

Devry University $62,708

Walden University $62,795

How much does an online business degree cost?

On average, online business degrees at other universities will cost $38,000 to $60,000 total. There also may be in-state or out-of-state tuition factors, as well as additional fees. However, you may be able to find online degree programs that cost much less.

For example, business degree programs at WGU are $3,755 per term for a bachelor's degree, and only $4,755 for graduate programs. This is less than half the cost of other online institutions.*

How fast can I get an online business degree?

A bachelor's degree in business usually takes around four years to complete at a traditional university. Often online business degree programs allow you to accelerate your program. For example, at WGU business undergraduate programs can be completed in around two years thanks to the accelerated course program.

What can I do with an online business degree?

An online business degree can open up many opportunities for you to begin or advance your career in business. Since a business degree is versatile and teaches many skills, it could qualify you to work in any of several unique industries. With an online business degree, you could potentially qualify for a job in management, finance, accounting, marketing, information technology, or even healthcare. So whether you want to be an accountant or a chief technology officer, an online business degree can help.

Can I earn a CPA license in my state with a WGU degree?

CPA licensure requirements vary by state. Check here for more information about accounting license requirements in your state.

*WGU average annual bachelor’s tuition rates are 47% lower than the national average, compared to national rates reported by the  Integrated Postsecondary Education Data Systems in 2022 . WGU average rate does not include rates for WGU Bachelor of Science, Nursing Prelicensure program.

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What Courses Do You Take in a Business Management Program?

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Key Takeaways

• Common business management courses include economics, financial accounting, marketing, business statistics, and business law.
• Top programs offer concentrations like marketing management, international finance, entrepreneurship, leadership and management, and accounting.
• Business management degrees provide a foundational knowledge in topics like finance, marketing, accounting, and operations.

Business management degrees can prepare you with a comprehensive understanding of business topics such as finance, marketing, accounting, and operations. It can be a smart move to drive career growth in financial management, entrepreneurship, or leadership positions.

The best business management programs offer rigorous academics from world-class faculty with hands-on experience and internships to help launch your career. You can also consider graduate degrees like an MBA in business analytics to accelerate advancement.

Business careers can be lucrative. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , top executives earned a median salary of $103,840 in 2023, financial managers earned $156,100, and human resources managers earned $136,350. Here, you can find an overview of common courses, concentrations, and resources to launch your business career.

What Are Common Core Courses in a Business Management Program?

Considering a business management degree? You’ll learn about financial accounting, marketing strategy, organizational leadership, and business decision-making in your business management classes.

Here are some of the most common core courses in business management.

Introduction to Economics

Advancement is key to any business. And understanding economic forces on the large and small scale helps business professionals do so.

In introductory economics courses, you’ll explore key economic institutions and core economic concepts.

You’ll learn about how consumers make decisions and how business professionals can use concepts like economic incentives to reach customers. The course also covers macroeconomic concepts such as business cycles, monetary policy, and the global economy.

You’ll likely take these economics courses in your first year because the material helps in advanced business management courses. For example, you’ll apply your understanding of consumer decision-making in marketing classes later on.

• Financial Accounting

Ever wonder how a business decision is made? Accountants help managers make decisions that are driven by data.

In your financial accounting course, you’ll examine financial accounting principles and tools, such as inventory, cash flow, and forecasting.

This course will train you to prepare accounting statements such as balance sheets and income statements. And then you’ll learn how to analyze these statements to make managerial decisions.

If you choose to become a manager after school, you’ll rely on financial accounting skills when making decisions about investments, business strategies, and liabilities.

Business management programs typically require financial accounting for first-year or second-year students because this course will prepare you for more advanced classes.

Principles of Marketing

Successful businesses use marketing effectively.

In core marketing courses, you’ll learn how to use marketing strategies to reach business goals.

You’ll study marketing theory, consumer behavior, competitor research, and marketing analytics. You’ll also learn about different marketing research methods.

It’s useful to take this course in your first or second year. The class introduces topics like social media marketing, new product development, and marketing strategy that you’ll use in advanced courses.

Principles of Management

Managers need a mix of leadership skills and management knowledge.

In this principles course, you’ll examine the management process, including topics like organizational planning, goal setting, and team building.

The class emphasizes leadership methods, conflict management, and strategic human resources management You’ll work on strengthening your communication skills, too.

You’ll typically take introductory management business courses in your first or second year. And then use the key skills you acquire in upper-division courses like project management , strategic leadership, and supervising teams.

Business Statistics

Business professionals rely on data analysis and statistics to make data-driven decisions.

In business statistics courses, you’ll explore statistical analysis tools and their applications. You’ll learn about concepts like data distribution, regression analysis, and data interpretation.

The course will train you to apply statistical methods in business settings.

Most programs recommend a business statistics course around the second year of your business management degree. Since you’ll apply your statistics and business analytics knowledge in upper-division courses.

Business Law

Looking to get into the nitty gritty of what makes a business tick? Business law might be the answer.

Business law restricts and shapes organizations’ daily operations.

In business law classes, you’ll explore the laws and regulations that apply to private and nonprofit organizations. You’ll cover contracts, employment law, and business ethics.

Depending on your focus area, your business law classes may also cover topics like litigation, securities law, business formation, and intellectual property law.

You’ll typically take business law classes around the third year of your degree.

Featured Online Bachelor’s in Management Programs

What are common concentrations for a business management degree.

In addition to core business management courses, you’ll also complete upper-division classes to prepare for specific career paths. A concentration helps you specialize your degree by shaping your coursework.

Marketing Management

A marketing management degree can lead to jobs in high-paying, growing fields.

A concentration in marketing management prepares you for careers such as market research analysts and marketing managers .

During the marketing degree, you’ll strengthen your analytical thinking, research, and communication skills. You’ll explore concepts like expanding market share, identifying gaps in the market, and developing marketing plans. The concentration also emphasizes managerial skills like team leadership and strategic planning.

Common Marketing Concentration Courses:

• Marketing Analytics
• Consumer Marketing
• International Marketing

International Finance

An international finance concentration introduces you to global markets, international financial systems, and international trade.

The concentration builds on foundational courses in financial management and international business to prepare you for roles like financial analyst or financial manager.

During a concentration in international finance, you’ll examine corporate finance in a global context. Coursework also covers key currency markets, international trade regulations, and risk management .

Looking to gain global experience? You may also complete study abroad programs.

Common International Finance Concentration Courses:

• International Business
• Financial Management
• Global Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurs bring innovative products and services to the market.

An entrepreneurship concentration provides advanced training in topics like launching a business venture and securing capital. You’ll also learn how to foster innovation and work in venture capital.

The concentration emphasizes skills like leadership, strategic thinking, and creativity. With entrepreneurial skills, you can establish new businesses and bring innovative approaches to established organizations.

Common Entrepreneurship Concentration Courses:

• Venture Capital
• Marketing Strategy
• Product Design and Management

Leadership and Management

A leadership and management concentration emphasizes managing both people and resources.

You’ll explore management strategies, leadership principles, and employee motivation. The concentration can also strengthen interpersonal and communication skills, which are critical for leaders.

During a leadership and management concentration, you can further focus your coursework by choosing electives related to a career path like healthcare management, human resources management, or information technology management.

Common Leadership and Management Concentration Courses:

• Leadership Strategies
• Management Theory
• Organizational Communication

A concentration in accounting examines concepts like financial reporting, managerial accounting, and business data analysis.

You’ll explore fields such as auditing, taxation, forensic accounting, and accounting information systems. The concentration strengthens analytical and decision-making abilities while emphasizing career-focused skills.

An accounting concentration trains you for roles like accountant or auditor. And it provides valuable skills for careers in finance or consulting.

Common Accounting Concentration Courses:

• Management Accounting

Explore More College Resources

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Your Guide to Business Administration Degrees

Business administration is a lucrative career. Learn about the different kinds of business administration degrees and find which one works best for you.

Completing a business administration degree is a great way to advance your career, find a new job, or learn the skills needed to start a business. You’ll gain knowledge to help you better understand how a business operates at every level. It’s essential to understand the different types of degree programs and the benefits of each. This guide will help you determine which business administration degree is right for you. 

What is business administration? 

Business administration refers to the general study of business concepts, such as accounting , finance, management, and marketing. It also covers data-driven sciences, like accounting, as well as workplace skills , like management. If a topic is a necessary component of running a business, it falls under the domain of business administration. 

Why pursue a career in business administration?

If you’re interested in starting your own business, becoming an office manager, or want to manage different workers, pursuing a career in business administration can help you achieve your goals. 

A business administration degree is often flexible. If you want to enter the business sector but aren’t sure where you want to concentrate, pursuing a career in business administration can help you find a path to multiple roles. 

If you’re interested in math, leadership, and real-world problem-solving, business administration may give you a chance to use all those skills. Business administration is also a gateway toward a lucrative future. According to Payscale, the average base salary for new graduates with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree is $74,000 per year [ 1 ]. After a few years, depending on the position and industry, your salary could increase much higher. 

What will I learn in a business administration degree program?

Graduates of a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) will learn what’s needed to operate a business or to qualify for an entry-level position at nearly any department in a corporation. Because a business administration degree has courses from every discipline in a business school, graduates are prepared to work in a diverse array of fields, such as banking, advertising, marketing, manufacturing, and more. 

When you begin a business administration degree program, you may learn the following fundamentals such as: 

Microeconomics 

Business and corporate finance 

Standard accounting practices 

Management techniques and theory 

Marketing principles, and more 

Some programs will emphasize new technology, while others will include classes in specialized fields like health care or ethical leadership. 

Types of business administration degrees

Colleges and universities provide three major types of business administration degree programs: those at the associate, bachelor's, and master's levels. Every business administration degree program delivers an overview of business fundamentals, but each varies in rigor, prestige, prerequisites, and more. Most programs allow students to concentrate in a specific discipline, adding a depth of expertise to the generalized knowledge they deliver. 

Read more: Is a Business Degree Worth It? Guide

Associate in business administration degree

An associate degree in business administration typically takes two years to complete and provides a broad overview of foundational business skills. You’ll learn the basic skills needed to qualify for an entry-level job. Although you may need more education if want to advance in your career, an associate degree in business administration is a less expensive way to learn business fundamentals and a quick way to prepare for more advanced options. Many of these degrees are career-specific, providing an entryway into specialized sectors like health care. 

Requirements: You’ll need a high school education or a GED. Some programs may require specific grade point averages or standardized test scores. 

Read more: Your Guide to the Associate Degree in Business Administration

Bachelor's degree in business administration

A business administration bachelor’s degree typically takes four to five years to complete and is designed to provide a firm grasp of business principles. In addition to in-depth work in a specific discipline, such as marketing, these programs require students to demonstrate a firm understanding of all business specializations. Some of the degrees include:

Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA)

Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration  (BABA)

Students who complete these programs may find themselves in high demand on the job market. Business administration degrees have become the most popular postsecondary education option in the US. The most recent data reveals that, of the 2 million bachelor’s degrees conferred in the 2018-2019 school year, 19 percent were business graduates [ 2 ]. 

Requirements: You’ll need a high school diploma or a GED, a GPA of at least 2.5, and reasonable standardized test scores from either the SAT or ACT. 

Master of Business Administration

Students who complete a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree usually take two years when they attend full-time. This degree is geared toward those who have already completed an undergraduate degree and who typically have a few years of real-world work experience looking to specialize in a specific field or discipline. MBA programs provide an education designed to help future business leaders make smart decisions. 

Many programs offer online options catered to full-time professionals to better accommodate their target market. 

Requirements: You’ll need to have completed a bachelor’s degree and submit scores from a standardized entrance exam, such as the GMAT or GRE. You may also need letters of recommendation, a minimum GPA at the bachelor's level, and relevant work experience. 

ROI for MBA graduates

While these programs are typically expensive, they provide tremendous ROI for graduates. In 2020, MBA graduates earned an average of $115,000 base salary after graduation [ 3 ]. Those who attend elite programs, major in certain specializations, or are willing to move to higher-paying locations can expect to earn more.

Read more: MBA Degree Salary: Guide

How long does it take to earn a business administration degree?

Business administration degrees typically take two to four years to complete. Associate degrees and master’s programs most commonly require two years, while bachelor's options usually take four years of full-time studies. 

Students who must work while earning their degree or don’t want to borrow money to finance their education can opt for online or hybrid learning options, which are more convenient but may extend the time required to complete the program. 

Skills you can learn with a business administration degree

After completing a business administration program, you’ll have sharpened your analytic and workplace skills. Not only will you learn the facts and foundational concepts of business practices, but you’ll also have the opportunity to increase your capacity for critical thinking and problem-solving. 

Because many business courses revolve around numbers, you’ll learn a lot of mathematics. Classes in accounting, finance, economics, and statistics often constitute the core of a business administration program and require students to become well-versed in advanced mathematical concepts and data analytics. 

A business administration program also places importance on the workplace side of running a company. Required courses in management and sales can help you learn how to lead, help, and understand people in a professional workplace. These skills can help you work more efficiently and effectively in groups and for others. 

Read more: Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills: What’s the Difference?

How to start your career in business administration

To learn more about starting a career in business administration, discovering more about individual degree programs is a smart first move. Check out Coursera’s guide to Online MBA and Business Degree Programs for more information about the kinds of options available to you. 

Give your team access to a catalog of 8,000+ engaging courses and hands-on Guided Projects to help them develop impactful skills. Learn more about Coursera for Business .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can you work as a business administration professional ‎.

Because business administration programs are nearly all-encompassing, graduates can work virtually anywhere. While some degrees equip students to work within a narrowly defined field, such as law or journalism, business administration degrees allow graduates to enter various sectors and positions. They can also give you the fundamental skills to open your own business. 

Positions in procurement , human resources , healthcare , advertising , and management usually require (or prefer) a degree in business administration. The degree will also allow you to work in the financial and health sector or as an office administrator for small and professional businesses.  If you want to advance on the corporate ladder, an MBA is often required for high-level management and executive positions. 

If you want to advance on the corporate ladder, an MBA is often required for high-level management and executive positions. ‎

What is the job outlook for business professionals? ‎

Business administration professionals are always in demand regardless of the job market. Education typically leads to more employment opportunities, but business administration also supplies a high number of graduates to some of the fastest-growing sectors. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, business and financial job openings are expected to grow 8 percent between 2020 and 2030 4 . ‎

How much money can you earn with a business administration degree? ‎

Graduates who earn business administration degrees tend to be well compensated. Business administration jobs are among the highest paying. According to Indeed.com, the highest-paying concentrations within a business administration degree are economics, organizational leadership, and project management. Graduates with those concentrations can earn an average base pay between $74,000 and $97,000 out of school 5 .

Earning an MBA tends to be even more lucrative. Overall, MBA graduates tend to average a base salary of $105,684, according to US News & World Report 6 . However, those numbers vary between top-tier and low-tier schools. For example, graduates of the top 15 programs earn an average base salary and signing bonus of $175,789. In contrast, graduates from schools with the lowest level of after-commencement compensation earned an average of $55,755 6 . ‎

Article sources

1. Payscale. “ Bachelor’s Degree, Business Administration Degree , https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Degree=Bachelor%27s_Degree%2C_Business_Administration/Salary." Accessed July 7, 2022.  

2. National Center for Education Statistics. “ Fast Facts: Most popular majors , https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=37.” Accessed July 7, 2022. 

3. Graduate Management Admissions Council. “ The Impact of COVID-19 on the Hiring of Business School Graduates , https://www.gmac.com/-/media/files/gmac/research/employment-outlook/gmac_corporate_recruiters_survey_sept_2020.pdf." Accessed July 7, 2022.  

4. US Bureau of Labor and Statistics. “ Business and Financial Occupations , https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/home.htm.” Accessed July 7, 2022. 

5.Indeed. “ 15 Highest-Paying Business Majors , https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/highest-paying-business-majors.” Accessed July 7, 2022. 

6. U.S. News & World Report. “ Find MBAs That Lead to Employment, High Salaries , https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/top-business-schools/articles/mba-salary-jobs.” Accessed July 7, 2022. 

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