Business Administration Schools

Business administration colleges form an important part of the higher education in the United States. In recent years, the number of business student enrollments has gradually increased. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), business administration is one of the most popular major for graduate students these days. The field of business administration is expected to grow steadily over the next 10 years in terms of employment.

The constantly growing competition in the industry has boosted the demand for business managers. Large and small companies are seeking business professionals who can add manage tasks and improve a business’s performance.

Business administration is an academic field that , simple put, deals with the management of day to day operations of businesses. The field covers various methods and techniques used by companies to maximize their productivity, efficiency and profit. Marketing, finance, human resource, supply chain management and operations are just a few of the main sectors that fall within the scope of business administration.

Business Administration Schools

There are a number of business schools in the nation that are offering business degree programs to students. These schools aim at providing specialized business education to students and help prepare them for challenging careers within the business industry ahead.

Students can choose from a wide variety of business degree programs, depending upon their current education and academic goal. The most commonly offered business degrees are:

• Associate degree in business administration
• Bachelor degree in business administration
• Masters degree in business administration
• Doctoral degree in business administration

Associate and bachelor degrees in business administration are undergraduate programs designed for students who have graduated high school. These programs offer fundamental knowledge of the field, and prepare them for entry-level careers. On the other hand, master’s degree in business and doctoral degree are advanced graduate programs.

In addition to the above mentioned programs, many colleges also offer short courses, diplomas and professional development programs which are mostly aimed at working professionals who wish to improve their prospects.

What will you study?

Students enrolled in a business administration programs will study a wide variety of management related subjects and build a solid foundation of knowledge. Since the field is vast, most programs cover a range of subjects that emphasize on different facets of business management. It is important to have a clear theoretical understanding of business management principles before moving on to advanced specializations. The coursework of business administration degrees is likely to vary from program to program and will also depend upon the level of degree. However, general areas covered in most business degrees are:

• Management and Theory (2-3 credits)

This is an introductory course that allows students to explore the art of management. The course emphasizes important principles and concepts, helping students understand how businesses are managed to achieve goals/objectives.

• Principles of Accounting (2-3 credit hours)

This course is designed to help students acquire a thorough understanding of finance-related functions of an organization. Students will learn how to manage cash-flows, record transactions, and analyze financial statements.

• Business research (2-3 credits)

Research is an important part of business management. This course will provide individuals with knowledge and research skills. Students will learn how to apply different research tools and methodologies for research. Important topics such as data collection and data analysis are covered in detail.

• Organizational development (2-3 credits)

Organizational behavior is a field that highlights the behavior of workforce in organizations, and different factors that affect them. Students will undergo a study of managing change effectively, and enhancing workforce performance.

• Marketing (2-3 credit hours)

This is among the most important areas of study and an integral business function. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of marketing theories and concepts. The course will allow students to explore different tools used for marketing products.

• Global business strategies (2-3 credits)

In this course, students will evaluate international trade practices. The course is designed to help students gain an overview of international business strategies and globalization. Topics such as multinational enterprise, international investment, and business structure are covered.

• E-business technologies (2-3 credit hours)

This course is designed to help students understand the impact of technology on today’s industries. The course will examine the role of the internet and how many businesses are operating online platforms.

Practical Research Work and Skill Development

Theoretical learning is an important part of every business administration program. However, schools also aim at equipping students with practical management skills. In many curriculums, students’ will come across research projects, case studies, field work assignments, and even internships. These areas of study allow students to gain hands on experience and develop skills such as the following:

• Communication skills
• Analysis skills
• Management skills
• Decision-making skills

Specialization:

• Human Resource Management
• Marketing and Promotions
• Supply Chain Management
• Finance and Accounting
• Project Management

Admission Requirements:

The admission requirements may vary from school to school. Some schools have strict admission criteria and may require clearance of an entry-test. However, for most schools, applicants will need:

• Letter of recommendation
• Transcript of high school diploma
• Transcript of bachelor degree
• Minimum CGPA 2.0

Accreditation

Accreditation is one of the most important factors to consider when enrolling in any school. Accreditation basically reflects a school’s approval by a board, and compliance with latest quality standards. The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has authorized a number of regional agencies to accredit and oversee schools in their locality. AACSB -The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business is one of the leading agencies that accredits business schools.

Online Business Degrees

Business Administration colleges around the country are now also introducing online degree programs. Enrolling in an online degree in business administration gives students the freedom to study in their own free time. Online programs are also flexible and cost-effective. Students do not have to be physically present in classes or travel anywhere. This mode of learning is extremely suitable for professionals who want to pursue further education but cannot enroll in college due to their jobs.

Career Prospects

With a degree in business administration, individuals can look forward to a range of management jobs in organizations. Employers require business majors in all kinds of industries ranging from retail to manufacturing and from services to telecommunications. It is important to remember that the position one may be eligible for will depend upon his or her specialization area. Here is the mean annual wage information for common management positions provide by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (2012):

• Marketing managers $115,750
• Compensation and benefits managers $95,250
• Financial managers $109,740
• Human resource managers $99,720