A Bachelor of Science in Business is among the most multipurpose and flexible undergraduate programs. Students who pursue a business degree are often seeking a versatile and adaptable credential that can be used for a wide range of career paths in many professional fields.
The curriculum takes a broad view of the business world and encompasses issues related to businesses of all sizes in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. The skill set learned from this degree is relevant across many industries and occupations, allowing a Penn State graduate mobility to adjust their career trajectories as opportunities arise.
What a business major studies
The online Bachelor of Science in Business program provides a solid grounding in all aspects of business — from marketing, accounting, and management to analysis of business data and communication in a global marketplace. Focusing on practical skills and real-world experience, the program’s interdisciplinary perspective provides a versatile base for mobility into all business areas.
Acting as the capstone to your Penn State education, your internship is an opportunity to apply the theories and concepts taught throughout the program. You can engage in an assignment at your workplace that goes beyond your regular job duties or you could work on a special initiative with a local organization in your community for an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world situation.
Career opportunities with a business degree
Business is a promising field expected to see continued growth. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Employment of business and financial operations occupations is projected to grow 7 percent from 2018 to 2028, faster than the average for all occupations.”
Graduates who earn a business degree have an extensive amount of possible career paths to match personal and professional aspirations. This versatile credential can help those earning business degrees develop the skill set to pursue many occupations, including:
- Accountants
- Financial Analysts
- Development Coordinators/Fundraisers
- Human Resources Specialists
- Market Research Analysts
- Logisticians
- Loan Officers
- Purchasing Agents
- Operations Managers
- Sales Experts
In combination with industry experience, a business degree can act as a strong qualifier for those who are considering continuing on for an advanced degree, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA), if the need for additional education arises.
Penn State World Campus business degree options
The bachelor’s degree in business offered through Penn State World Campus is particularly versatile, allowing students to customize the program to best meet individual interests or professional goals. Students tailor the program by selecting one of several 18-credit specialization options, including:
Accounting: Gain a deeper understanding of financial and managerial accounting, systems and controls, taxation, and auditing
Entrepreneurship: Explore topics like idea generation, opportunity analysis, new product creation, and business plan development
Financial Services: Build skills highly valued by employers, in wealth management, risk management, estate planning, portfolio analysis, and personal financial and retirement planning
Health Services: Pursue careers in the health services sector with emphasis on the financial and administrative aspects of health care enterprises
Management and Marketing: Develop advanced management and marketing techniques related to sales, global marketing, small business marketing, and more
Students can also create a unique plan consisting of a blend of several disciplines.
A specialized background can help a graduate stand out to employers and provide the ability to follow a unique learning pathway customized by the strengths and passions of the student.
Why earn a bachelor’s degree in business from Penn State World Campus?
Penn State World Campus offers the flexibility for Penn State students to earn a business degree from anywhere in the world, whether they are parents, professionals, active-duty military, or a veterans.
“The Bachelor of Science in Business online degree program allows you to complete a degree that is marketable in a variety of industries, depending on your course selections. It focuses on building key skill areas that employers are looking for: critical and innovative thinking skills, excellent communication capabilities, and application of theory to real-world business situations.” —Veronica M. Godshalk, Ph.D., Professor of Business Administration
Combining Penn State’s strong reputation for providing top-notch academics through its well-respected business schools with the World Campus designation as one of the top schools for online bachelor’s degrees, the Bachelor of Science in Business program offers students the ability to be a part of Penn State wherever they call home.