Graduating from an online program in business administration could open the door to a multitude of careers in business, management and government. (1, 2, 3) These professionals should have the business expertise to manage large projects for government firms and the financial savvy to balance accounts for large corporations. (5, 6) Though careers in this field could be stressful at times, the job outlook appears stable and monetary compensation could be excellent for online graduates. (1-3)
Career Options for Online Business Administration Programs
Career opportunities for graduates of an online business administration degree program could be far-reaching, ranging from careers as financial analysts to top executives. (1-3, 5, 6) Online business administration programs are commonly available at the associate, bachelor’s and master’s levels. (2, 3, 5) Although less common, online Ph.D. programs can also be found. (6) While an associate program is designed to prepare students for employment as sales agents and business coordinators, a bachelor’s degree is the typical route for most business careers, including accountant, financial advisor, communications specialist, business operations specialist and marketing manager. (1-3, 5) Master of Business Administration programs could bolster resumes resulting in advanced positions, like chief executive officer, and doctoral programs are designed for research and academia careers. (3, 6)
Like their on-campus counterpart, online business administration programs are available at a multitude of online, private and public universities and colleges, designed with the flexibility for working individuals or those with family obligations. Be aware, however, that these programs require a lot of self-discipline and are time intensive, even though it’s from the comfort of a home or office. The coursework generally delves into business operations, accounting, management, marketing and finance. Most programs allow students to specialize in a particular field, such as accounting, business information systems, sales, human resources or project management, to name a few. Hands-on or real world training could be gained through team projects, internships and capstone projects. (5-7)
Salary
Business is a stable market that is projected to see average growth of 13 percent from 2012-2022, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). (1) Additionally, the BLS stated in May 2013 that the mean wages for this field as a whole were above average at $71,020. Profiled below are the mean wages for ten possible careers available to online business administration graduates, according to the BLS in 2013. (4)
• Sales Representatives, Service: $68,680
• Business Operations Specialist: $69,030
• Accountant and Auditor: $72,500
• Financial Analysts and Advisors: $90,730
• Marketing Manager: $133,700
• Chief Executives: $178,400
• General Managers: $116,090
• Business Professor: $89,100
• Marketing Research Specialist: $67,780
• Sales Manager: $123, 150
Work Life
The work life for online business administration graduates can vary based on the industry they work in. Career opportunities could be found in every industry, including large and small business, government, management corporations, manufacturing and finance. Most work a full-time schedule in an office setting; however, travel is common to attend meetings or meet with clients. Overtime is typical, including working nights and weekends. (1-3)
Citations
1. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2014-15 Edition, Business and Financial Occupations, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/home.htm (visited October 14, 2014).
2. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2014-15 Edition, Management Occupations, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/ (visited October 14, 2014).
3. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2014-15 Edition, Chief Executives, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/top-executives.htm#tab-3 (visited October 14, 2014).
4. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Employment Statistics, 2014-15 Edition, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2013, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oes/2013/may/oes_nat.htm#13-0000 (visited October 14, 2014).
5. Penn State World Campus, AS in Business Administration, on the Internet at http://www.worldcampus.psu.edu/degrees-and-certificates/business-associates/overview (visited October 14, 2014).
6. Hampton U Online, PhD in Business Administration, on the Internet at http://huonline.hamptonu.edu/programs/phd_busleadadmin.cfm (visited October 14, 2014).
7. US News and World Report, 5 Tips to Success in an Online Course, on the Internet at http://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/articles/2013/01/14/5-tips-to-succeed-in-an-online-course (visited October 14, 2014).