Jobs that you can get with a business administration degree

The phrase "business administration" brings to mind professional office environments with dress codes and regular business hours for many people. While you can certainly get to that place on the business administration path, if it's where you want to end up, those looking for a different kind of work environment may be interested in these business administration degree jobs that take you beyond the typical office environment.

1 – Appraiser

You'll need some background education in appraising, and a license in most states, but using the business and people skills you gain with your business administration degree to work as a real estate appraiser gives you the freedom to travel around your local area, instead of being stuck behind a desk.

Median annual salary, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): $49,540

2 – Contract Negotiator

As a contract negotiator, you'll serve as a mediator between two businesses, helping them design contracts that are agreeable to both parties. Some businesses employ in-house negotiators, which keeps you in the office, but you can also work as a freelance consultant.

Mean annual salary, according to the BLS: $68,840

3 – Credit Counselor

Many banking and credit organizations hire people with B.A. backgrounds and good math skills to help make decisions, or to collect, on credit accounts. You can also work as a credit counselor from the consumer side, where you'll help those in debt create budgets and payment plans.

Mean annual salary, according to the BLS: $43,670

4 – Market Research Analyst

If the latest products on the market interest you, turn your business administration education into a career as a market research analyst. Analysts help companies determine which products will be successful, the buyers for products, and the best market prices.

Mean annual salary, according to the BLS: $60,300

5 – E-commerce Web Developer

To be a website designer, you need coding and graphic design experience. A B.A. degree gives you the unique background to create and maintain e-commerce sites, which require business prowess along with developer skills.

Mean annual salary, according to the BLS: $66,100

6 – Event Manager

Those who can manage a business can manage an event. If the social scene is your game, put your degree to good use as an event planner. Some large companies hire full-time planners for marketing events, parties, and company meetings, or, if you prefer to be your own boss, go it alone and fill your roster with work from multiple companies.

Mean annual salary, according to the BLS: $45,810

7 – Public Relations Specialist

Putting a company in the best light is the job of a public relations specialist. In this job, you plan public events, set up interviews, and serve as the public face of a company.

Mean annual salary, according to the BLS: $61,980

Despite its name, a degree in business administration doesn't mean you have no choice but to serve as the administrator of a business. A business degree is, by nature, a general degree that opens up many opportunities both inside and outside corporate offices. Whether you spend your days behind a desk or never see one is entirely up to you.

Find out what options you have for continuing your education and learning more about a future career in this exciting field!

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Written by Coursera • Updated on Aug 10, 2022

See how you can elevate your career with a degree in business.

Of all bachelor’s degrees conferred in the 2018-19 academic year, the greatest number were conferred in business [1]. You can apply the skills you develop while earning a business degree in many industries. Whether you’re just graduating or looking to pivot to a new career in business, consider these quickly growing (and high-paying) jobs you can apply for with a business degree.

10 business degree jobs in demand

We’ve combed through the latest occupational outlook data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics to identify 10 fast-growing jobs you can potentially get with a business degree. Learn more about each role—job description, salary, career outlook, and requirements—to help you decide if a career option for business graduates is right for you.

1. Medical and health services manager

Median annual salary (BLS.gov):  $101,340

Job outlook (projected growth from 2020-2030): 32%

As a medical or health service manager you work behind the scenes at a hospital, doctor’s office, or other care facility to keep it running safely and efficiently. You manage many operational duties of a health care facility—tasks that might include:

• Training and recruiting hospital staff

• Managing digital health care records

• Creating schedules for health care providers

• Communicating with health insurance representatives

This role might be a good fit if: You pay attention to detail. You’re interested in the health care sector but want to avoid the biological elements of direct patient care.

How to get the job: Most entry-level medical and health services management jobs require a bachelor’s degree in a field like management, business administration, health care administration, nursing, or public health. Earning a graduate degree, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Master of Health Administration (MHA), might help you advance your career to executive positions and grow your earning potential.

specialization

The Business of Health Care

Advance your career in health care management. Develop business skills and understand the American health care system to improve cost and quality.

4.6

(1,138 ratings)

14,157 already enrolled

BEGINNER level

Average time: 4 month(s)

Learn at your own pace

Skills you'll build:

Insurance, Health Economics

Read more: What Is Health Care Administration? What You Need to Know

2. Information security analyst

Median annual salary (BLS.gov):  $102,600

Job outlook (projected growth from 2020-2030): 33%

As an information security analyst you play a key role in protecting an organization’s computer networks and systems. You serve as the gatekeeper for information systems—and help safeguard a company’s reputation—by:

• Identifying weaknesses in network security

• Planning and implementing security protocols and systems

• Responding to breaches and cyberattacks

• Training users to navigate new systems

This role might be a good fit if: You like to understand how things work, tend to think ahead, and thrive off a challenge.

How to get the job: While most security analysts have a computer-related bachelor’s degree, some companies prefer applicants with an MBA in information systems as well. This degree typically includes both business and computer-related coursework. As you expand your skill set, you may be able to advance to positions like chief security officer or IT project manager.

professional certificate

IBM Cybersecurity Analyst

Get ready to launch your career in cybersecurity. Build job-ready skills for an in-demand role in the field, no degree or prior experience required.

4.6

(7,422 ratings)

91,745 already enrolled

BEGINNER level

Average time: 8 month(s)

Learn at your own pace

Skills you'll build:

information security analyst, IT security analyst, security analyst, Junior cybersecurity analyst, Information Security (INFOSEC), IBM New Collar, Malware, Cybersecurity, Cyber Attacks, database vulnerabilities, Network Security, Sql Injection, networking basics, scripting, forensics, Penetration Test, Computer Security Incident Management, Application Security, threat intelligence, network defensive tactics, cyber attack, Breach (Security Exploit), professional certificate, cybersecurity analyst

3. Operations research analyst

Median annual salary (BLS.gov):  $82,360

Job outlook (projected growth from 2020-2030): 25%

As an operations research analyst you leverage your critical thinking skills to help organizations operate efficiently and effectively. You take raw data and transform it into actionable insights using data mining, statistical analysis, and mathematical modeling. Some common tasks include:

• Collecting and analyzing large data sets

• Developing mathematical models to solve problems

• Testing and validating models to ensure accuracy

• Advising leadership teams on business solutions

This role might be a good fit if: You love the problem-solving power of mathematics. You’re an analytical thinker who approaches problems with a methodical, logical approach.

How to get the job: Operations research analysis sits at the confluence of business and mathematics. A bachelor’s or master’s degree in fields like business, management science, operations research, or analytics is a valuable asset. Further elevate your resume by gaining experience with SQL or machine learning.

course

Operations Analytics

This course is designed to impact the way you think about transforming data into better decisions. Recent extraordinary improvements in data-collecting ...

4.7

(4,874 ratings)

104,894 already enrolled

Average time: 1 month(s)

Learn at your own pace

Skills you'll build:

Simulation, Mathematical Optimization, Solver, Decision Tree

4. Market research analyst

Median annual salary (BLS.gov):  $63,920

Job outlook (projected growth from 2020-2030): 22%

As a market research analyst it’s your job to study the marketplace. You determine your company’s position versus competitors and help research market products and services. As the consumer marketplace continues to evolve, you are always looking for new ways to engage and delight customers by:

• Monitoring and predicting sales trends

• Researching consumers, competitors, and products

• Developing new ways to gather meaningful consumer data

• Presenting actionable insights in a simple, visually appealing way

This role might be a good fit if: You’re analytical and creative. You can take raw data and use it to tell a persuasive story.

How to get the job: While strong math and analytical skills are essential in this role, the communication and problem-solving skills you’ll learn through a business degree are equally important. Consider a bachelor’s degree in market research, business administration, communications, or statistics. You can also advance your career by earning an MBA or a Professional Researcher Certification (PRC) from the Marketing Research Association.

specialization

Market Research

Research Techniques + Data = Marketing Superhero. Deliver valuable customer insights for your business.

4.5

(869 ratings)

34,000 already enrolled

BEGINNER level

Average time: 4 month(s)

Learn at your own pace

Skills you'll build:

Internality, Qualitative Research, quantitative research, Market Research, Proposal Writing, Research Methods, Product Research, Marketing Intelligence, Sample Collection, Sample Size Determination, Sample Preparation, Focus Group, Sales And Operations Planning, Sample Mean And Covariance, basic statistics, sampling statistics, Digital Marketing, Market Impact, Data Analysis, market insights

5. Financial manager

Median annual salary (BLS.gov):  $131,710

Job outlook (projected growth from 2020-2030): 17%

As a financial manager you are responsible for the overall financial health of an organization. You help your organization achieve its short and long-term financial goals by:

• Producing financial reports and forecasts

• Directing investment activities

• Analyzing market trends for opportunities

• Developing plans for long-term financial goals

• Assisting management in financial decisions

This role might be a good fit if: You’re inquisitive, self-motivated, and enjoy teaching others. You see every problem as an opportunity to do better.

How to get the job: Most financial management positions require a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a business-related field like finance, accounting, economics, or business administration. Earning an advanced degree or a professional certification, like the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Certified Treasury Professional (CTP) certification, can open up opportunities for advancement to potentially become a chief financial officer.

specialization

Financial Management

Become a Strategic Financial Manager . Develop an integrated financial management framework.

4.7

(4,262 ratings)

65,282 already enrolled

INTERMEDIATE level

Average time: 8 month(s)

Learn at your own pace

Skills you'll build:

Financial Mismanagement, Financial Management, Risk Management, Investment, Financial Aid Management, Financial Accounting, Accounting, Accrual, Financial Statement, Cash Flow, Cash Flow Statement, Stock, Finance, Investment Strategy, Financial Markets, Corporate Finance, Project, Mergers And Acquisitions (M&A), Debt

Read more: What Can You Do with a Finance Degree? 7 Career Paths

6. Fundraiser

Median Annual Salary (BLS.gov):  $60,660

Job Outlook (projected growth from 2020-2030): 16%

As a fundraiser you might work in the political or not-for-profit sectors to raise money for an organization. This may sound simple, but fundraising extends beyond just asking for money. You achieve this goal by:

• Analyzing what’s important to potential donors

• Crafting strong and compelling messages

• Organizing campaigns and events to bring in donations

• Maintaining donor information records

• Training volunteers in fundraising best practices

This role might be a good fit if: You’re passionate about a cause and want to apply your leadership and communication skills to furthering that mission.

How to get the job: While fundraisers come from a range of academic backgrounds, some have a bachelor’s degree in a field like business, communications, or public relations. Once you’ve gained some experience, you can earn your Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential.

specialization

Fundraising and Development

A Career That Makes a Difference. Connecting donors to their passions.

4.6

(247 ratings)

9,506 already enrolled

BEGINNER level

Average time: 5 month(s)

Learn at your own pace

Skills you'll build:

Fundraising

7. Management analyst

Median annual salary (BLS.gov):  $93,000

Job outlook (projected growth from 2020-2030): 14%

As a management analyst, sometimes called a management consultant, you help organizations become more profitable by finding ways to reduce cost and boost revenue. You likely work as a consultant meeting with various client companies and:

• Interviewing and observing on-site to evaluate company performance

• Examining financial data and employment reports

• Recommending organizational changes and new procedures

• Training workers in newly implemented strategies

This role might be a good fit if: You enjoy solving complex problems and working with ideas. You’re not afraid of taking calculated risks.

How to get the job: As a management analyst, you’ll often rely on the business and leadership skills you’ve acquired from a degree in business, economics, finance, or marketing. Earning an MBA will make you even more attractive to top consulting firms. While not always required, some management analysts choose to earn their Certified Management Consultant (CMC) designation.

specialization

Management Consulting

Management Consultant Careers Skills Tools. Work like a management consultant: smarter, and faster

4.9

(25 ratings)

1,400 already enrolled

BEGINNER level

Average time: 7 month(s)

Learn at your own pace

Skills you'll build:

Management Consulting, Presentation, Problem Solving, Consulting, Recruiting, Business Case, Business Analytics, Case interview, interviewing, Project Management, Data Analysis, Lean Six Sigma, Benchmarking, Business Strategy, Industry Analysis, PowerPoint, executive presence

Read more: Master’s in Management vs. MBA: Which Is Better?

8. Human resources specialist

Median annual salary (BLS.gov):  $62,290

Job outlook (projected growth from 2020-2030): 10%

As a human resources (HR) specialist you are responsible for hiring and maintaining talent within a company. Tasks vary from day to day but likely include:

• Recruiting, screening, and interviewing workers

• Processing new hire paperwork and exit interviews

• Conducting training for new hires

• Managing compensation and benefits

• Addressing complaints and harassment allegations

This role might be a good fit if: You can navigate difficult situations with empathy and tact. You value flexibility, variety, and the ability to make a difference in individual lives.

How to get the job: While requirements vary by company and industry, most HR specialists start with a bachelor’s degree in business or human resources. Some positions require previous experience in customer service or other related positions. Expand your options to advance into a human resources manager position by completing a certification program.

specialization

Human Resource Management: HR for People Managers

Become a better manager of people. Develop strategies and skills for hiring, managing performance, and rewarding employees.

4.8

(9,997 ratings)

138,557 already enrolled

BEGINNER level

Average time: 6 month(s)

Learn at your own pace

Skills you'll build:

Performance Management, interviewing, Human Resources (HR), Onboarding, managing people, Resource Management, Hr Strategy, Recruiting, Recruitment, Performance Appraisal, Organizational Culture, Incentive, Compensation And Benefits, Compensation Analysis

Read more: What Can You Do With an Organizational Leadership Degree?

9. Marketing manager

Median annual salary (BLS.gov):  $133,380

Job outlook (projected growth from 2020-2030): 10%

As a marketing manager you serve as the link between a company and its customers. You work on a public relations or marketing team to manage services or products by:

• Crafting promotional messages for various media channels

• Managing budgets for marketing campaigns

• Testing marketing strategies and messages

• Building relationships with media outlets

• Monitoring and improving SEO

This role might be a good fit if: You’re a team player with a natural curiosity about why people do what they do. You’re equal parts creative and analytical.

How to get the job: The first step toward a successful career in marketing management is earning a bachelor’s degree in a business-related field like marketing or advertising. Some companies will look for previous work experience in the business world, as a sales rep or public relations specialist for example.

professional certificate

Meta Marketing Analytics

Launch Your Career in Marketing Analytics. Build in-demand skills and gain credentials to go from beginner to job-ready in 5 months or less. No degree or prior experience required.

4.6

(1,122 ratings)

28,523 already enrolled

BEGINNER level

Average time: 7 month(s)

Learn at your own pace

Skills you'll build:

Marketing Strategy, Data Analysis, Marketing Mix Optimization, Statistics for Marketing, Advertising Effectiveness Evaluation, Marketing, Digital Marketing, Python Programming, Tableau Software, Data Visualization (DataViz), Statistical Analysis, Linear Regression, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Marketing Mix Modeling, Marketing Plan, A/B Testing, Meta advertising, Social Media Marketing, Ads Manager, Marketing Science, Facebook Advertising

Read more: What Can You Do with a Marketing Degree? 11 Job Paths

10. Accountant/auditor

Median annual salary (BLS.gov):  $77,250

Job outlook (projected growth from 2020-2030): 7%

As an accountant or auditor you work with organizations to keep their financial records accurate, up to date, and in compliance with industry regulations. While accountants often prepare financial records and reports, auditors verify the accuracy of those documents. You do this by:

• Examining financial records for accuracy and compliance

• Preparing or verifying tax returns

• Analyzing accounting systems for maximum efficiency

• Making business and financial recommendations to management

This role might be a good fit if: You have a love of numbers and an eye for detail. 

How to get the job: If you want to work in auditing or accounting, set yourself up for success by earning a bachelor’s degree or master of science in accounting. Many accountants also become Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) to further enhance their career prospects.

specialization

Fundamentals of Accounting

Accounting Basics for Managers and Entrepreneurs. Apply principles that underlie financial statements and facilitate business decisions and goals.

4.6

(913 ratings)

22,332 already enrolled

BEGINNER level

Average time: 6 month(s)

Learn at your own pace

Skills you'll build:

Income Statement, Cost, Financial Statement, Balance Sheet, Accounting, Accounting Terminology, Financial Ratio

Read more: Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) Degree: What You Should Know

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If you're ready to explore, take a look at several online business degrees at the bachelor and master level from top universities on Coursera.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Related articles

• 6 Business Majors For Your Goals: 2022 Guide

• Your Guide to Online Business Degrees

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Article sources

1. National Center for Education Sciences. "Most popular majors, https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=37." Accessed June 8, 2022.

2. The Best Schools. "What Is a Business Degree?, https://thebestschools.org/degrees/business-degrees/." Accessed June 8, 2022.

3. ZipRecruiter. "The Most Regretted College Majors – and the Least, https://www.ziprecruiter.com/blog/the-most-regretted-college-majors/." Accessed June 8, 2022.

Written by Coursera • Updated on Aug 10, 2022

This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.