Accounting Education and Career Guide

• Overview
• Degrees
• Associate Degree in Accounting
• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting
• Master's in Accounting
• Accounting MBA
• Job Description
• Salaries

School-specific transfer agreements 

Many two-year colleges have transfer agreements with four-year universities, also referred to as articulation agreements. These create simplified pathways for transferring credits from one school to another and can impact how many credits you can receive. Choosing a school that has an articulation agreement with your two-year college may help maximize your chances of getting the most credits transferred over, but it’s not a requirement. Schools that don’t have articulation agreements simply have to be examined on a case-by-case basis.  

“Every institution has a different policy for transferring credits from an associate degree program to a bachelor’s degree program. Thus, it is very important to check with the schools you are interested in attending to find out about their transfer policy, the number of credits that you would be allowed to transfer, accreditation of your school and the school you are transferring to, course content and grades,” said Dr. Tanae Acolatse, Program Manager for the Bachelor of Science in Accounting program at Colorado State University (CSU) Global.  

“For example, at CSU Global, our transfer policy allows students to transfer up to 90 credit hours. The 90 hours can include up to 64 credits from community colleges, 60 from non-traditional sources and other credit-by-exam and prior experiences.”

Area of study 

As you would expect, if you studied something during your associate degree that’s completely unrelated to an accounting bachelor’s degree, then some of the classes you took may not apply towards the credits needed for your accounting major. That shouldn’t really be an issue if you earned your associate degree in accounting, though. Many of the lower-level accounting classes you took should be easy to transfer to most schools.  

Your location 

At least 31 states have policies that require schools to transfer core lower-division courses and have statewide guaranteed transfers of completed associate degrees, according to the Education Commission of the States. This can make it a lot easier to transfer credits from your associate degree to a bachelor’s. 

Your grades

Many schools have a policy that transfer credit can only be awarded if the student earned a certain grade in that class or higher. Therefore, it may not be guaranteed that credits will transfer just because you completed a class.

Accreditation

The accreditation status of your school and/or specific associate degree program can play a major role in whether your credits can transfer. Schools typically only accept transfer credit from other schools that are accredited by an accreditation agency approved by the U.S. Department of Education.  

“Before you commit to transferring to a bachelor’s degree program, make sure to verify that your current and future programs are accredited by a recognized accrediting organization,” Acolatse said. She pointed out, for example, that CSU Global’s Bachelor of Science in Accounting program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).  

“’Accredited’ simply means that the institution has received approval based on academic standards, demonstrating its commitment to providing students with a quality education. A degree from an unaccredited institution may prevent you from obtaining professional certifications, admission to a graduate program and job opportunities.” 

More job opportunities 

Leveling up your associate degree in accounting to a bachelor’s degree could lead to a greater breadth of job opportunities in the long run.  

“The earning potential and career opportunities for bachelor’s degree holders are usually higher than associate degree holders,” Acolatse said. “For example, a bachelor’s degree opens the door to more advanced job opportunities, including financial analyst or auditor positions, which command higher salaries, leading to better job security based on educational attainment.” 

Higher earning potential 

Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics continues to show that the higher the education level, the more people tend to earn. Take those whose highest level of education is an associate degree—the median usual weekly earnings for this group in 2023 was $1,058, or about $55,016 per year. The median for bachelor’s degree holders, on the other hand, was $1,493, or about $77,636 per year.  

Even though every person’s earning potential is influenced by additional factors like experience and location, advancing your education still tends to lead to higher salaries.  

Easier to qualify for industry certifications 

There are many different certifications available to people in accounting and finance professions. Each certification has its own unique eligibility criteria, and many of them require a bachelor’s degree to qualify. Though some offer multiple eligibility pathways that allow people with an associate degree to still qualify if they have more experience, a bachelor’s degree is usually necessary to qualify for industry certifications.  

“Most professional certifications require a bachelor’s degree as a prerequisite; thus, if you are interested in sitting for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam, you must have a bachelor’s degree to be eligible to register for the exam. Another example is the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) exam. At CSU Global, our program prepares our students for the CMA exam, so if you are a junior or senior, you can sit for the exam before you graduate,” Acolatse said. “Graduating from college with a professional certification will set you apart from your peers who are competing for the same jobs that you are applying for. Remember—obtaining a professional certification can also increase your earning potential!

Develop transferrable skills 

“Transferable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving and data analytics are just a few of the skills that are essential for success in the accounting field. In a bachelor’s degree program, you have the opportunity to develop and master these skills,” Acolatse said. In CSU Global’s program, she said that students enrolled in upper-level courses are using real-world scenarios and hands-on practice to obtain skills in data analytics, business intelligence, problem-solving, critical thinking and communication. 

“These are the benefits that you will acquire when you transition from an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree.” 

Accounting Education and Career Guide

• Overview
• Degrees
• Associate Degree in Accounting
• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting
• Master's in Accounting
• Accounting MBA
• Job Description
• Salaries

Who should earn a master's degree in accounting?

Many different types of students and professionals can enroll in an accounting master’s program, including recent graduates of bachelor’s programs, working professionals that already have experience in the field and people who may be switching careers.  

“If you are interested in becoming a professional accountant or desire to earn industry certifications, a master’s degree in accounting is the best path to take toward achieving your goals,” Acolatse said. “For example, if you want to pursue a professional certification like the Certified Public Accountant (CPA), obtaining your master’s degree is recommended since to acquire your license, you must have a bachelor’s degree plus an additional 30 credit hours.”  

Even if you don’t want to be a CPA, a master's degree can still be beneficial. 

“On the other hand, if certifications are not a part of your career plan, a master’s degree can better prepare you for specialized areas such as taxation, auditing, forensic accounting and financial analysis. Looking to move up into top leadership positions, the master’s degree can be a plus in demonstrating your commitment to continuous learning which also can show that you are trainable.” 

Benefit #1: Expand your job prospects

Earning a master’s degree in accounting could broaden your job prospects. Managerial and senior-level roles may require a master’s degree to qualify, but even if it’s not required, a master’s degree could make you a much more desirable job candidate.  

“One exciting point to note about career opportunities in the accounting profession is that students are not limited to specific industries or accounting fields! Accounting is much more than ‘crunching numbers’ or ‘running reports.’ Graduates of master’s degree programs in accounting have a wide range of choices for career paths,” Acolatse said.  

Depending on their skills, experience and career goals, Acolatse said these are some of the job titles and roles they may pursue:  

Benefit #2: Increase your earning potential

Although this benefit may be implied given that a master’s degree in accounting could lead to more advanced jobs with more responsibilities, it’s still worth noting that a master’s degree could command higher salaries.  

Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) continues to show that people with more education tend to earn more. In their most recent report, the median annual weekly earnings for people with a bachelor’s degree alone was $1,493, but that figure increases to $1,737 for master’s degree holders. That comes out to over $12,000 more per year.  

Benefit #3: Opportunity to specialize

One of the great things about graduate school is that it’s a chance to get exposed to different niches and specializations within a given field. Unlike bachelor’s degrees which tend to have broad curriculums and require you take lots of general education courses, you get to take a deeper dive into the subject matter at the graduate level.  

Some of the accounting specializations you may learn about in a master’s program and want to pursue in your career include:  

• Forensic accounting: Examining financial records for fraud and other financial misconduct related to criminal investigations  
• Taxation: Become an expert at understanding complex tax regulations for businesses and other organizations   
• International accounting and finance: Understand international accounting standards for governments, international businesses and more

Acolatse said that the Master of Professional Accounting (MPA) program at CSU Global provides students the chance to specialize in five different areas depending on their career goals:

• Data analytics  
• Fraud investigations & forensic accounting 
• Auditing & assurance 
• Taxation 
• Professional accounting

Benefit #4: Can help earn industry certifications

Professional certifications can be hugely advantageous in the finance field. They demonstrate a unique skill set and validate someone’s education and professional experience, which many employers like to see.  

Most certifications require candidates to complete a combination of education and experience and then pass a certification exam. Certifications each have their own individual requirements, but many require a bachelor’s degree or higher to qualify. Those with a master’s degree may find it easier to satisfy these minimum education requirements.  

Consider, for example, the requirements to become a CPA. Most states require that to qualify for CPA licensure, candidates must complete at least 150 semester hours of higher education in an accounting concentration. Bachelor’s degrees are typically only 120 semester hours, so you’d still be short with a bachelor’s degree alone. Earning a master’s degree, however, would easily put you over the educational requirements.

Benefit #5: Change careers with ease

People switch career paths all the time. Sometimes people switch to something that’s still fairly similar to their old job, while others make a drastic change and start fresh in an entirely new field. This can be challenging—especially for the latter group—if you have a degree that’s not very applicable to the new job you want.  

That’s where a master’s degree in accounting can come in. If you already have a degree in another area but want to make the switch to a career in finance, a master’s degree can fill in those knowledge gaps and prepare you for a seamless transition into the field.

Accounting Education and Career Guide

• Overview
• Degrees
• Associate Degree in Accounting
• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting
• Master's in Accounting
• Accounting MBA
• Job Description
• Salaries

Diverse career paths for accounting graduates

An accounting degree can, unsurprisingly, lead to a career as an accountant, but that’s not all they’re good for. A bachelor’s degree in accounting can give you the financial literacy skills needed to establish yourself in many different industries, roles and niches.  

Besides working as an accountant, Acolatse said that other job titles that may be available to you include things like:  

Flexible online learning options 

Many colleges and universities now offer bachelor’s degrees in accounting online. This can be a fantastic option for whom going to school at a brick-and-mortar institution isn’t feasible due to work or geographic constraints. It can also be great for those that simply prefer the flexibility of online learning or who want to save some money, since online degrees tend to cost less.  

“I think the pandemic really changed our environment to the point that when everybody shifted online, they realized it was a place that people could actually learn,” Acolatse said. “In the future, I think that we are going to see continued growth in online education, especially since more schools moved to online learning since the pandemic.” 

Acolatse said that online degrees can also be advantageous since many accounting jobs today can now be done remotely. By earning your degree online, you are already preparing yourself for the remote work environment.  

“Another trend that is happening is the focus on lifelong learning and continuous professional development,” Acolatse said. “Online learning is very flexible. Everybody has access to it. You don't have to worry about moving somewhere to get a good education. Online higher education is getting the benefit for that. And because it's more accessible and flexible, people can get a great education online which is necessary for them to grow and also be successful in the workplace.”

Accounting Education and Career Guide

• Overview
• Degrees
• Associate Degree in Accounting
• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting
• Master's in Accounting
• Accounting MBA
• Job Description
• Salaries

Understand the program's format

The first factor you want to consider is the program format. There are three main program formats: in-person, online and hybrid. An in-person program offers classes on-site at a campus. On the contrary, an online program allows you to sit for lessons and complete homework remotely. A hybrid program is a combination of in-person and online, such as two classes a week in person and one online.

Choosing the right master’s degree program relies on understanding your ideal program format. For example, if you work a nine-to-five, you might not be able to attend classes during the day. If a tax program only has daytime classes, you might need to look for an alternative. Moreover, online program formats give you flexibility in the school you enroll in. You could live in Minnesota but earn a master’s in accounting from a university in California. Take the time to look at your schedule and tentative universities to choose the right program.

Identify the master's program cost

Every university will have a different cost structure. Knowing the costs per credit, total expected cost, transportation and travel expenses and any other miscellaneous expenses, like books, is important. You want to find a program that fits within your budget. Although most master’s programs will have similar costs, there can be slight differences. 

Remember, there are various financing methods for higher education, such as student loans, grants and scholarships. In addition, some employers subsidize your tuition if the master’s program benefits you in your role. First, start with your budget. Then, determine which programs and universities fit in your range.

Look for accreditation

Not all accounting master’s degree programs offer accreditation. An accredited master’s degree is a degree that meets certain educational standards in quality. Holding an accredited accounting master’s degree can set you apart from others in the accounting field and ensure you are receiving a quality education that builds your knowledge and skills.

Schools will list if their program is accredited on their website. Look at the “About Us” page or on the homepage of the program you are interested in. If you aren’t finding any information on accreditation, reach out to the school directly.

Evaluate your school's size

The size of the school can also play a role in your accounting program decision. Large schools can’t always compete with the personalization and one-on-one assistance that small programs offer. For example, if your accounting master’s degree or MBA program is small, you may have more networking opportunities by connecting with other students and professors on a personal level.

However, large institutions often have access to more funding and resources compared to small schools. This could mean more state-of-the-art technology, expansive scholarship and financial aid programs, or extensive online class offerings. If you like working in small groups or directly with professors, look for an accounting program offered through a small university. On the contrary, if you excel in a large group setting and are looking to maximize your resources, check out programs at large institutions.

Assess the admissions requirements

Each accounting program will have admission requirements. These requirements can include a minimum GPA, a certain undergraduate degree and specific work experience. Most master’s programs will require a GPA of 3.0 or greater; however, some programs require above 3.25 or 3.50. When selecting a master’s in accounting program, you want to make sure you meet the admission requirements.

Let’s say you have a GPA of 3.30. You find that a forensic accounting master’s program requires a minimum GPA of 3.25, while a tax program requires a GPA of 3.50. Based on this information, you might decide to pursue a master’s program in forensic accounting.

It’s important to understand that each school will have different admission requirements. A tax master’s program at a school in California might require a GPA of 3.50, while the same program in Kansas only requires a 3.0. Narrowing down your list of interested programs will help you determine which schools and programs are viable options based on the admission requirements.  

Interview your instructors

Most schools host open houses, whether in-person or virtually. This gives you the opportunity to talk about the program with instructors and professors. Instructors in your accounting master’s degree program make great mentors, helping you not only in the program but outside as well. They help you build your network and successfully complete your master’s degree.

Finding instructors that match your learning style and needs can help you determine which program is right for you. Check online for an open house for different accounting programs.

Consider the program's length

Most master’s degree programs in accounting are between 30 and 60 credit hours. According to the U.S. Department of Education, “A credit hour is a unit of measure that gives value to the level of instruction, academic rigor, and time requirements for a course taken at an educational institution…. An institution is responsible for determining the credit hours awarded for coursework in its programs.”

Since the U.S. Department of Education leaves it up to schools to determine what constitutes a credit hour, each program and school will have different requirements. Evaluating the program length based on credit hours helps you understand the time commitment needed. If you are looking for a quick master’s degree, you might choose a program that is only a few years rather than one that requires three years.

Acknowledge your career goals

Acknowledging your career goals is one of the most important factors when choosing a master’s degree program. What are your long-term goals? Why are you pursuing a master’s degree? If you are only enrolling in a master’s program to sit for the CPA Exam, you might not need to choose the most technical program. A general program would be sufficient as you are only intending to satisfy a credit requirement.

However, if you are pursuing a master’s in accounting for a specific career advancement, the program you choose does matter. For example, if you want to become an international tax specialist, pursuing a master’s in tax would be beneficial. Look at your long-term career goals to decide which program fits best.

Accounting Education and Career Guide

• Overview
• Degrees
• Associate Degree in Accounting
• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting
• Master's in Accounting
• Accounting MBA
• Job Description
• Salaries

You'll learn a variety of business skills

The first benefit of earning an associate degree in accounting is the skillset you acquire. Most programs cover a variety of topics, including general accounting, bookkeeping, payroll, business communication, computer applications, income tax and economics. This gives you an overview of topics and situations you will face in an accounting role.

Not only will you improve your technical skills, but you will develop your soft skills, like leadership and communication. These factors are essential when advancing your career or applying for entry-level roles in accounting.

It may be transferable to a bachelor's degree program

Courses offered in an associate degree program are often transferable to a bachelor’s degree in accounting. A bachelor’s degree is needed if you plan on pursuing a CPA license or want to work your way up to a master’s degree or an MBA in accounting. A bachelor’s degree program in accounting will spend the first year or two covering the basics through intro-level courses. Many of these courses are offered in an associate degree program.

Additionally, starting with an associate degree in accounting is beneficial to have baseline expertise to secure a position in accounting while working your way up to a higher degree. If you do plan on enrolling in a bachelor’s accounting program in the future, be sure your program is accredited and your credits will transfer by double-checking the school’s transfer policy.

There are flexible course options and timeframes

Associate degree accounting programs offer flexible course options and timeframes. For example, there are dozens of institutions that have fully remote associate degree accounting programs, allowing you to complete your degree from anywhere.

In addition, online programs and in-person courses have flexible timeframes, such as night classes. This helps you secure your degree without disrupting your life or existing work schedule. Not to mention that courses for an associate degree in accounting can be more affordable compared to classes in a bachelor’s degree program.

You may develop a competitive advantage

Entry-level accounting positions don’t always require higher education. Roles like payroll processes, bookkeepers and administrative assistants can all be completed without a formal degree. However, this can result in more competition when applying for new positions and promotions. How will you differentiate yourself from other applicants?

By completing an associate degree in accounting, you can set yourself apart from other applicants. Companies see that you have taken courses in accounting, giving you more technical experience in different tasks and topics. This might be the driving force for a company hiring you over another candidate. Additionally, with a competitive advantage like an associate degree in accounting, you may be able to secure a higher pay rate and compete for promotions.

Can prepare you for professional certifications

There are more certifications available for accountants than the CPA. In fact, there are countless certifications that you can apply for with the knowledge learned through your accounting associate degree. Some of these certification programs are related to software, while others test your technical skills. For example, a Certified Bookkeeper (CB) designation tests your knowledge of adjusting entries, accounting error corrections, payroll, depreciation, inventory and internal controls.

According to the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers, “If you are an in-house bookkeeper, certification can increase your salary and raise your status—or get you a higher-paying bookkeeping job. For example, 54% of CBs got a new job, promotion or higher-level responsibilities with their current employer when they become a Certified Bookkeeper —or got a new job.”

An associate degree in accounting gives you the background knowledge needed to pass these exams, helping you advance your career.

May open the door to new career paths

Do you want to move up the corporate ladder? Many companies limit career growth based on your educational background. For example, in some large accounting firms, individuals cannot become managers without having a CPA license. Even if you aren’t striving to become a manager at a big-name firm, you might still have career growth goals.

Returning to school to pursue an associate degree in accounting shows your current or future employer that you value growth and are committed to learning. This may generate new opportunities for promotions and pay raises and help you beat out other applicants.

An associate degree in accounting gives you the background knowledge needed to pass these exams, helping you advance your career.

Can generate networking opportunities

In business, it’s about who you know, not necessarily what you know. By surrounding yourself with other peers in the accounting industry, you are developing your network. This may lead to new job opportunities, provide professional growth, refine your skills and build your personal image.

Do you think an employer would be more likely to hire someone they have never met or an individual who is highly recommended by a colleague? Probably the latter. Connecting with peers and professors through your associate accounting degree program may yield lifelong results and pave the way for the future.

Can introduce you to accounting software

Accounting software is integrated into many of the duties of accountants and bookkeepers. Accounting associate degree programs will have a software course worked into the curriculum that introduces you to programs used on a daily basis. This could be navigating Excel or learning how to reconcile bank accounts in cloud-based programs. Knowing this information is non-negotiable to advance in your career as a bookkeeper or accountant.

Although many companies will offer on-site training, it can be helpful to have a baseline understanding of how to operate these programs.

Allows you to explore freelance work

If working in a typical nine-to-five role doesn’t sound appealing to you, earning your associate degree in accounting is still beneficial. For one, you can start offering freelance services, such as payroll processing, receivable and payable management and other bookkeeping work. This may give you the ability to start your own business and work on your time.

It can be difficult to start freelance accounting without some formal educational training. Additionally, having a degree builds credibility and trust with future clients, proving you have a technical background and can properly maintain their books.

Accounting Education and Career Guide

• Overview
• Degrees
• Associate Degree in Accounting
• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting
• Master's in Accounting
• Accounting MBA
• Job Description
• Salaries

4 ways a bachelor's can prepare you for the CPA Exam

1. A bachelor's degree exposes you to CPA topics

The Uniform CPA Exam tests your knowledge of different accounting and tax topics. The test is broken down into three Core sections and one Discipline section. The Core sections include Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR), Auditing and Attestation (AUD) and Taxation and Regulation (REG). Candidates will also choose one of the following sections: Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR), Information Systems and Control (ISC) and Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP).

The concepts found in each of the above sections are taught in the bachelor’s accounting program. Most programs will require at least one class in each of the areas. For example, an intermediate accounting class would cover topics found in the FAR section, while an auditing class and a business tax class introduce topics found in AUD and REG.

Learning about the topics found on the CPA Exam is easiest when pursuing a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Having a full semester dedicated to the topics found in each exam section is important to understand both the big picture and granular topics that might appear on the exam. Additionally, most courses expect students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in accounting to take the CPA Exam, offering test prep in addition to regular course work. 

2. A bachelor's complies with minimum education requirements

You must meet minimum education credits to sit for the CPA Exam. Each state will have slightly different education requirements, including eligible coursework and number of credits. According to the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), “To obtain the required body of knowledge and to develop the skills and abilities needed to be successful CPAs, students should complete 150 semester hours of education. Many states/jurisdictions now require or will require 150 semester hours of education for obtaining the CPA license.”

Most bachelor’s degree programs are set at 120 credit hours, helping you work toward the 150-credit mark. The credit requirements are set high because CPA Exam candidates need to be able to evaluate complex problems and have technical competence. Meeting the 150-credit hour minimum doesn’t always need to be done by enrolling in a master’s program. In fact, many candidates secure minor degrees while enrolled in a bachelor’s program.

There are five states that do not require an accounting degree to sit for the CPA Exam, including Alaska, Georgia, Hawaii, Maine and Massachusetts. However, you must still meet the minimum credit and course requirements, which can be difficult to do without completing a bachelor’s degree program.

It’s also important to note that credits from an existing associate degree can count toward your bachelor’s degree. This means that you might only need to take two or three more years of coursework, saving you time and money on your path to becoming a CPA.

3. You gain valuable networking and communication skills.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerk industry will decline by -5% through 2033. However, accountants and auditors, including CPAs, will experience a 5.8% industry growth rate through 2033. By pursuing a bachelor’s degree and taking the CPA Exam, you can improve your job prospects and career opportunities to get hands-on experience.

For example, many accounting programs require an internship. Accounting firms that see you are working toward a bachelor’s degree may be more willing to hire you for an internship. Not only can this result in higher pay, but it also helps satisfy the work experience requirement for the CPA Exam.

According to the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy, “Licensure candidates need about 2,000 working hours verified by a licensed CPA, but check with your jurisdiction as requirements vary. Note, previously completed internships may count toward your 2,000-hour goal.”

Although the specific hour requirements will vary by state, pursuing a bachelor’s degree can help you work toward the required work experience to receive your CPA license. In addition, hands-on experience preparing tax returns and financial statements solidifies the concepts found on the CPA Exam.

4. A bachelor's can help with placement in professional and graduate programs

Since most bachelor’s programs only require 120 credit hours, you may need to fill this gap by pursuing higher education, such as a master’s degree in tax or general business administration. Qualification for these programs is dependent on having an existing bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related subject.

Master’s degrees are generally smaller in scope and credit size, with an average program being between 30 and 60 credit hours. The added insights and technical skills learned during graduate programs help you when taking the CPA Exam and can position you for greater career advancement. For example, accounting talent with both a CPA license and a master’s degree might look more attractive compared to an individual with one or the other.

Whether you are looking to get accepted into higher education, meet the minimum education credits to sit for the exam or beat out competition for open positions, a bachelor’s degree in accounting is the starting point. To put it simply, the AICPA states, “Receiving your CPA certification distinguishes you from other business professionals—the benefits are increased trust, opportunity and financial reward.”

7 reasons higher ed matters

1. A business degree is versatile for many career paths.

There’s a reason why business degrees are the most popular baccalaureate major in the United States, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Business is an incredibly versatile discipline and can prepare you for a vast range of different career paths. The knowledge and skills that you acquire by getting a business education can be applied to just about any occupation. 

2. There are many different specializations available.

A business administration degree is diverse multi-disciplinary major that gives you a taste of many aspects of business. However, most institutions that offer business degrees also have a ton of concentrations or specializations to tailor your degree to your particular interests. If you’re looking for something a little more specific, you might consider any one of these majors that fall under the business umbrella:

• Finance
• Economics
• Accounting
• Marketing
• Entrepreneurship
• Human resources management
• Information systems
• Public relations
• Supply chain management

By specializing, you gain a unique set of skills that can be applied to your profession and possibly open up unique career opportunities that wouldn’t otherwise be available to you without that experience.

3. You gain valuable networking and communication skills.

When you join the field of the most popular college major in the country, you’re going to be connected with a wide network of people and resources that can come in handy for your career. Business as a discipline is especially big on the value of networking, because it allows businesses to create a trade of ideas and services that can mutually benefit everyone. On a more individual level, networking and knowing the right person could be the foot in the door you need to land your dream gig.

When you pursue a business degree, you are taught the value of networking and how to hone your communication skills to network successfully.

4. Higher education can increase your qualifications and credibility.

While some professions may not value education as much as experience on a resume, many occupations across all disciplines do prefer and/or require employees to have some sort of postsecondary education. When you invest in your education, you are expanding the number and types of jobs that you may qualify for. From an associate degree in marketing to an MBA in project management, a degree could set you apart from the competition and make you a more desirable job candidate.

5. A business degree can jumpstart a career as an entrepreneur or business owner.

If you already know you’ve got a great idea for an innovative product, business venture or just want to set up a brick-and-mortar establishment, a business degree can give you the foundation to get your dreams off the ground. You’ll need to know things like how to procure necessary resources, finance a business, manage employees, create a successful marketing model and so much more. Although it's not the only option, a business administration degree may give you the best taste of all these aspects of building a successful business.

When you combine those skills with the connections you’ll make through a business program, you could be poised for success no matter what your entrepreneurial aspirations consist of.

6. Higher education may increase your earning potential.

From associate to doctoral degrees, you’ve got a good chance of earning more money when you invest in higher education even in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ 2023 report, the median usual weekly earnings of workers over 25 years of age increases with every level of higher education. For example, the median usual weekly earnings for people with just a high school diploma are $899, which goes up to $1,058 for people with an associate degree, $1,493 for a bachelor’s degree and so on. Your particular salary will depend on many factors like your specific job, location and experience, but the data remains consistent: higher education could increase your earning potential.

7. There are lots of online degrees out there.

Since there are so many different types of business degrees it’s probably not surprising that there are also a lot of online degrees available too. An online business education can be a great option for several reasons, including the fact that they tend to cost a little less than in-person programs and have a much more flexible schedule that can usually accommodate other commitments. And, with so much business being conducted remotely now anyway (nearly 18% of workers in 2023), an in-person degree may not be as necessary as it once was. You may even find that you thrive in an online learning format when you are able to work at your own pace and be a little more independent with your education.

Recruiting and Hiring

Labor and Employee Relations

Training and Development

Job Analysis

Comparing MBA and MPA Degrees

While both MPA (Master of Public Administration) and MBA (Master of Business Administration) degrees offer valuable skills, they differ in their focus and target sectors. MPAs are geared towards the public sector, attracting students with undergraduate backgrounds in social sciences. On the other hand, MBAs are commonly pursued by individuals with undergraduate degrees in business, economics, or engineering, aiming for careers in the private sector. Consider your career goals and interests when choosing between these two degrees.

Dual MBA/MPA Degree Programs

Some people have an interest in not only business and finance, but also public affairs and non-profit work. A dual MBA/MPA degree program, which combines the core financial training of an MBA with the government policy focus of an MPA, covers all these fields.

The typical dual MBA/MPA program will include:

All of these studies will be applicable to both private and public-sector business.

At the end of a more-intensive study in both disciplines, which often takes two to three years of work, the MBA/MPA track gives students two graduate degrees with which to shape their careers. The dual MBA/MPA degree is more challenging, but it gives students a wider range of career choices that bridge the public and private sectors.