Business Majors in College

Many business majors in college exist. You may wish to learn to run a business. You may want to learn how to operate a specific area of business. Majoring in business in college is a common path. Some people may minor in this area, too. You may wish to choose an area that appeals to you. Then, work on earning a degree in it.

Business majors hold significant value for numerous companies. They play a pivotal role in recruiting and nurturing talented individuals who contribute to a company’s expansion. Your involvement could extend to strategic decision-making, leveraging critical thinking skills to mitigate potential risks. Specific roles might include financial management, personnel supervision, or product-focused responsibilities. 

Navigating this multitude of options can indeed pose challenges. To facilitate your decision-making, explore various business majors available in college. Opt for the one that aligns with your intrinsic passion and resonates with the potential tasks you’d undertake in that field. Consider your affinity for working with people, your interest in sales, or your inclination towards quantitative disciplines like mathematics. 

The range of options is expansive, reflecting the versatility of degree programs. These programs empower you to tailor your academic journey to your preferences. Let’s delve into an overview of some common types of business majors offered in college. 

Types of Business Degree Programs

Choosing the right degree to pursue in the realm of business offers a multitude of options. The selection of your degree hinges on various factors, often encompassing employer expectations and the value of practical experience. Here is a look at the various options you may wish to choose to pursue. 

Associate Degree in Business

Consider an AAS or AS, as a potential choice. An associate degree commonly marks the starting point of your educational journey. Within a span of two years, you can attain this degree, although some programs might have a shorter duration. Certain programs of this kind might be fully conducted online, while others could be accessible through local community colleges. These courses are typically foundational in nature, covering a range of subjects from broad to specific aspects of the business realm. This specialization often equips you with the skills to perform distinct business functions. 

An additional motive for pursuing an associates degree in business could arise if you’re uncertain about your preferred business domain. Some of these degrees encompass a comprehensive curriculum, providing insights into various segments of business, including accounting, business law, and leadership skills. This diverse exposure assists in identifying your areas of interest. It’s not uncommon for individuals to pursue a bachelor’s degree subsequent to completing an AAS, thereby gaining a clearer understanding of their optimal business focus. 

Associates degrees usually have a shorter duration, rendering them more cost-effective compared to traditional four-year programs. For many students, this presents an opportunity to mitigate educational expenses. Furthermore, there’s the potential for earned credits to be transferrable to other educational institutions. However, it’s essential to confirm this aspect prior to finalizing your decision. Should this be the case, it can significantly contribute to obtaining a more advanced degree while minimizing financial outlay. 

There are various types of associates degrees in business. Some examples of areas you may wish to explore include these.

  • Introduction to Human Resources
  • Customer Service Skills
  • Intro to Taxation
  • Business Analysis and Intelligence
  • Intro to Finance

You may be able to use this to help you work in administrative positions in companies. Some work in assistant management positions. Others work in sales support positions. Some go on to start their own business. Many may pursue more advanced degrees.

Is an AAS or AS Best?

An applied associate of science degree is a foundation program. It typically covers business principles. It could also help develop entry level skills. An associate of science focuses on general education courses. It may include business admin basis.

Bachelor of Business Administration

You may have more options at this level. That includes a Bachelor of Business Administration. It may also include a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Some also may take a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration.

Many bachelor degrees include general courses. They also may included advanced courses. This may include areas of math or English. These are skills many may need for business and a business major in college. Many offer electives. This lets a student concentrate. It may help them take courses they are interested in. Then, many may have a concentration focus. This may include a specific area of student. It may include business law. For some, it may include operations management. These programs typically take four years to complete.

The combination of these skills may help a person be valuable to a company. They also need soft skills. Many bachelor’s programs help with this. They may teach communication skills. They may teach critical thinking skills. Many may also teach leadership. These are often important in the business environment as well. These often are specific to the area of study. Those in operations or admin positions may benefit from strategic thinking. Others may need strong math skills.

Many bachelor’s degree programs may also offer other opportunities. This may include internships in companies. These may help students gain real world skills. Othersmay  offer case projects. Some may have capstone projects. Others may have apprenticeships.

Students could learn a great deal in a bachelor’s degree. They may use it to explore topics such as:

  • Business Formation
  • Business Law
  • Managing People
  • Business Finance
  • Business Marketing
  • Research and Development

Some may work in business management positions. Others may use their degree to start their own business. Some may go on to pursue more advanced education.

What’s the Difference in BBA, BSBA, and BABA?

A BBA is a broader focus. Classes may include marketing and economics. A BSBA has a more math focused curriculum. A BABA is more liberal arts focused. It may include more human management courses.

Master of Business Administration

A Master of Science in Business Administration is one option. A Master of Arts in Business Administration is another. The key to these business majors in college is that they tend to be very concentrated. Students may learn advanced skills in key areas of focus. Master’s programs tend to take two years to complete. Some are available online.

There are many options. Students may focus on areas such as:

  • Business Law
  • Economics
  • Human Resources
  • Finance

Students may work in areas such as supply chain management. Others may work as financial advisors. Some could also work as a financial analyst or in consulting fields. Others may work in areas of financial development. Others may want to move into related areas. This may include healthcare or product development.

Some students go on. They may earn a doctoral degree. It provides an even higher level of focus. Students may concentrate in this program. They may attend another 18 months to 2 years to complete this advanced education.

Different Types of Business Majors in College

Which business majors in college are perfect for you? A bachelor’s degree is typically the first step. You may be able to go to a business school. You may go to a traditional college with business majors. The decision making process may be hard. Here are some programs to consider. You may be able to get started on this degree right after high school.

Accounting Degree

An accounting degree often applies to many positions. Some may pursue a career as an accountant. These professionals could work in finance fields. They may work in a public or private company. This type of business degree may be a major or minor. Some may take this program as a part of a humane resource degree. Others likely take it with a business administration degree. Grad students may take it as part of a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program. Accounting majors may be very specific. They could be general, too.

Courses:

  • Intermediate Accounting
  • Cost Management
  • Federal Income Tax
  • Auditing
  • Business Law
  • Information Systems
  • General Business Management

Potential Career Paths: Accounting Consultant, Auditor
2023 Median Pay: $79,880 per year / $38.41 per hour 
2023-33 Job Outlook: 6% (Faster than average)
2023-33 Jobs Available: 1.54 million

Advertising Degree

An advertising degree aims to teach students how to help market and sell products or services. Students may work in public relations. Some may work in advertising or marketing in private firms. In a bachelor’s degree in advertising, students s may develop critical skills. They may need strategic thinking. They could learn about mass communication. Some may learn journalism. You may take this program as part of other business degrees as well. Some students may minor in it. They may major in business law or public relations.

Courses:

  • Media Planning
  • Creative Strategy
  • Research
  • Media Planning
  • Law and ethics
  • Advertising campaigns

Potential Career Paths: Copywriter, Production Coordinator, Creative Director, Marketing Manager
2023 Median Pay: $156,580 per year / $75.28 per hour
2023-33 Job Outlook: 8% 
2023-33 Jobs Available: 389,000

Economics Degree

An economics degree may help you take part in the world of finance. Some people work for companies. Others may work for government agencies. They may help with decision making for investments. An economics degree often leads to working as an economist. Some people major in this field. This usually requires at least a bachelor’s degree. A master’s degree is often necessary for many jobs. This field is typically math based. Students may spend time learning about predicting outcomes. They may study business on a global scale.

Courses:

  • Microeconomics
  • Macroeconomics
  • Applied Econometrics
  • Game Theory
  • Principles of Economics
  • Microeconomics

Potential Career Paths: Economist
2023 Median Pay: $115,730 per year / $55.64 per hour
2023-33 Job Outlook: 5% (As fast as average)
2023-33 Jobs Available: 17,600

Entrepreneurship Degree

An entrepreneurship degree  may be a varied program. It is not just for those who want to start a business. It could also help those who wish to work in business management. Often, it aims to teach about business development. It could help you learn how to start a business. It may focus on growing a company. And, it may bring together many of the business topics in one program. This may include marketing. It may include business law.

Courses:

  • Entrepreneurial Marketing
  • Entrepreneurial Finance
  • Entrepreneurship and the Startup Methods
  • Entrepreneurship and Society

Potential Career Paths: Business Consultant, Recruiter, Management Analyst
2023 Median Pay: $99,410 per year / $47.80 per hour
2023-33 Job Outlook: 11%  (Much faster than average)
2023-33 Jobs Available: 987,600

Finance Degree

Every business may need to manage money. A finance degree could help you learn how. This is a broad degree. Many people may concentrate in it through a master’s program. It typically aims to provide students with financial knowledge in various areas. Some students may focus in investment management. They may help make investment decisions. Others may turn to banking. Corporate financial analysis is likely another area. Global finance may interest some. Risk management is another area. Students interested in finance may have many career path options. Finance majors may range widely.

Courses:

  • Foundations of Managed Care
  • Business Project Management
  • International Healthcare
  • Asset Management
  • Financial accounting
  • Fixed Income Securities
  • Financial Management

Potential Career Paths: Clinical Director, Medical Records Manager, Office Manager
2023 Median Pay: $156,100 per year / $75.05 per hour
2023-33 Job Outlook: 17% (Much faster than average)
2023-33 Jobs Available: 792,600

Hospitality Management Degree

hospitality management degree is one often focused on teaching people how to help others. Those with this degree often work in hotels. They may work in casino management. Some also may work in food service management. They may learn about helping people to enjoy their experience. Some also may learn marketing. They may learn social media marketing. Many learn operations management. They may learn to run a hotel in many areas.

Courses:

  • Housekeeping Management
  • Hotel Front Office Management
  • Hotel Convention Sales and Services
  • Hospitality and Tourism Law
  • Leadership in Hospitality

Potential Career Paths: Travel Agent, Travel Attendant, Lodging Manager
2023 Median Pay: $65,360 per year / $31.42 per hour
2023-33 Job Outlook: 10% (Much faster than average)
2023-33 Jobs Available: 50,800

Human Resources Degree

human resources degree is a business degree. Some students may earn a B.A. in it. They may work as human resource professionals. Others may take human resources coursework to work in other business degrees. A B.S. in Human Resource Management is one path. Students may learn how to hire employees. They may learn how to build relationships in teams and may also ensure companies meet ethical requirements. They may use business data and aim to provide education to employees. And, they may help make business decisions.

Courses:

  • Human Resources Management
  • Principles of Management
  • Human Resource Strategy and Development
  • Total Rewards
  • Business Operations

Potential Career Paths: Human Resource Specialist, Human Resource Manager
2023 Median Pay: $136,350 per year / $65.55 per hour
2023-33 Job Outlook: 6% (Faster than average)
2023-33 Jobs Available: 191,600

International Business Degree

An international business degree aids in global business development. Students may learn how to market and build business on a global scale. They may learn about management. They may focus on finance. Also, they may learn about growth strategies. Ethics and law are often a component of this program many times. Many students could earn a Master of Science in International Business. Many could also develop analytic degrees. They may learn to make decisions in a business environment. Cultural areas of study may also be important.

Courses:

  • International Finance Management
  • International Marketing
  • Global Supply Chain Strategy
  • Introduction to International Accounting and Finance
  • Managing the Global Enterprise

Potential Career Paths: Management Analyst, Marketing Manager
2023 Median Pay: $99,410 per year / $47.80 per hour
2023-33 Job Outlook: 11% (Much faster than average)
2023-33 Jobs Available: 987,600

Management Degrees

Management degrees are a foundation. Many other business majors in college include management. Some people may just earn a bachelor’s in management. Others may go on to learn a master’s. Those who take these programs learn to supervise. They may learn how to manage company assets. They may learn to meet growth expectations. Some learn to use business data. This field may be concentrated. Some may manage finance companies. Others may manage manufacturing companies. Many may work as managers. Others work as CEOs or executives. Some students could have a focus in supply chain management.

Courses:

  • Intermediate Accounting
  • Cost Management
  • Federal Income Tax
  • Auditing
  • Human Resources
  • Business Law
  • Business Ethics

Potential Career Paths: Management Analysts, Accounting Consultant, Auditor
2023 Median Pay: $99,410 per year / $47.80 per hour
2023-33 Job Outlook: 11% (Much faster than average)
2023-33 Jobs Available: 987,600

Marketing Degree

Many companies often need to market. This is a way of telling others what products and services are available. A marketing degree could be very valuable. An associate’s degree in marketing is one option. Many students pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Students may learn professional selling. They may learn marketing research. They may learn to use business data. Many students also learn consumer behavior. They may also learn about social media. They may go on to work in marketing firms. Some may own their own business. Others may work in large companies.

Courses:

  • Introduction to Marketing Management
  • Foundations of Professional Sales
  • Marketing Research
  • Consumer Behavior
  • Marketing Strategies
  • Marketing Methodology

Potential Career Paths: Account Executive, Media Planner, Brand Manager
2023 Median Pay: $156,580 per year / $75.28 per hour
2023-33 Job Outlook: 8% (Faster than average)
2023-33 Jobs Available: 389,000

Operations Management Degree

An operations management degree is another business program. Many people may take this program to work as an operations manager. These people could learn how to lead others. They also may oversee operations in companies. This includes the day to day management tasks. It may also include making decisions for the company. They work to manage products and supply chains in some cases. Many may work in manufacturing. Others may work in office settings.

Courses:

  • Systems Innovation
  • Leading the Enterprise
  • Enterprise Planning and Implementation
  • Energy Strategy and Innovation
  • Organizational Leadership
  • Management Information Systems

Potential Career Paths: Compliance Manager, Manufacturing Manager, Office Manager
2023 Median Pay: $75,670 per year
2023-33 Job Outlook: 1.6% 
2023-33 Jobs Available: 359,640

Project Management Degree

project management degree aims to help students learn to manage people and projects. This may include learning to manage projects from the conception through completion. Those with this degree may work as a project manager. They may have to learn to work with people. This may include human resource management classes. They may also learn about decision making. They may have to balance project budgets. And, they may have to develop project plans. Many aim to help company leaders make decisions. They also may watch and control outcomes.

Courses:

  • Applying Leadership Principles
  • Operations Management
  • Assessing and Managing Risk
  • Project Management Tools
  • Procurement and Contracting
  • Project Leadership
  • Assessing and Managing Risk

Potential Career Paths: Construction Manager, Operations Manager
2023 Median Pay: $104,900 per year / $50.43 per hour
2023-33 Job Outlook: 9% (Much faster than average)
2023-33 Jobs Available: 505,800

Public Relations Degree

public relations degree aims to focus on the relationship between a business and the community. Some may work in business. Others may work in government. Students often need a bachelor’s degree to get a job. These degrees sometimes pair with marketing or advertising degrees. Students may learn about media. They often learn about sales language. They may learn about human decision making. And, they may also learn a bit about psychology.

Courses:

  • Public Relations Principles
  • Media Writing
  • Communication Pathways
  • Public Relations Strategies
  • Media Law
  • Theory of Ethics
  • Public Relations Campaigns
  • Persuasion

Potential Career Paths: Marketing Coordinator, Fundraiser, Media Planner
2023 Median Pay: $156,580 per year / $75.28 per hour
2023-33 Job Outlook: 8% (Faster than average)
2023-33 Jobs Available: 389,000

Supply Chain Management Degree

Supply chains aim to help products move from manufacturers to warehouses. They then could help to get them to consumers. A supply chain management degree is of growing importance. More business may be  done online. That may make managing these complex systems so important. Those who get this degree may help with that. That may include procurement of products. It may focus on production. In some areas it could focus on distribution or allocation. Many people work in the delivery aspect. They may learn to manage people. Many may work in high-tech surroundings.

Courses:

  • Principles of Management
  • Business Law
  • Financial Accounting
  • Managerial Accounting
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Integrated Project Management
  • Business Modeling
  • Transportation and Logistics Management

Potential Career Paths: Logistics Manager, Transportation Manager, Logistician
2023 Median Pay: $99,200 per year
2023-33 Job Outlook: 8% 
2023-33 Jobs Available: 127,000

Taxation Degree

taxation degree aims to prepare students to do taxes for individuals. They may also learn to do taxes for businesses. They may learn the current tax code. And, they may also learn accounting skills. Not everyone in taxation has a formal degree. Some may have a certificate. Those with a degree may work in companies. They may provide leadership skills to tax departments. Some own their own business. Others may work within larger tax firms. Some students may also get a finance degree. Some could go on to earn their CPA.

Courses:

  • Tax Research
  • Estate and Gift Taxation
  • Tax Accounting
  • International Taxation
  • Business Law
  • Cost Accounting
  • Finance

Potential Career Paths: Financial Planning Consultant, Certified Public Accountant
2023 Median Pay: $99,580 per year / $47.88 per hour
2023-33 Job Outlook: 17% (Much faster than average)
2023-33 Jobs Available: 327,600

Grad School Scholarships

Can I Apply for Grad School Scholarships? 

If you’re considering grad school, rest assured that numerous scholarships are available to support your educational journey. Certain scholarships cater to master’s degree programs, helping to alleviate the associated costs. Additionally, scholarships exist for PhD students, providing financial assistance for research endeavors. 

It’s worth noting that pursuing a graduate degree doesn’t necessarily require on-campus attendance. Many adults opt for online grad school programs, and scholarships are also available for those pursuing education in this format. 

Where Do I Find Grad Scholarships? 

Many scholarships come from grad schools themselves. But there are private donors and agencies that offer them too. In fact, if your field of study has an association of some type, it may be useful for a scholarship. Sometimes, these awards are only for members, so you may have a shot. 

Take the American Speech Language Hearing Foundation. They offer scholarships of $5,000. They go to grad students in communication science and disorders master’s or PhD programs. Because they are not loans, scholarships and grants typically don’t have to be paid back. You may have to abide by the terms of the grant or scholarship, though, so make sure to see what these are. 

How Do You Get Grad Scholarships for Grad School? 

To get a scholarship for grad school, you must apply. You may apply only if you meet the provider’s criteria for eligibility.  

Eligibility varies from one scholarship to the next but can include things such as:

  • Merit (e.g., GPA range, creativity shown in a portfolio) 
  • Financial need 
  • Intent to pursue a grad degree in a specific field (e.g., Business adminSocial workArchitectureProject Management, etc.)
  • Plans to research in a chosen area (e.g., Archaeological Research
  • Demonstrated qualities (e.g., History of leadership or Public Service
  • U.S. citizen, permanent resident status 
  • Live in a certain location 
  • Be a member of the grantor organization or association

Graduate Scholarship Contests 

There are also scholarships that are more like contests. These may ask you to submit a video or some kind of portfolio, depending on the subject. One example is the Pelican Water Sustainability Scholarship. Applicants create a video to support the theme of water conservation for a chance to win up to $1,500.

Or, all you might need to do is create an account and put your name in the hat. One example is Scholarship Points, a $10K giveaway.   

Graduate Scholarships for Minority Students and Women 

Yet others are set aside for people that belong to a certain group. Like women, international students and minorities. An example is the Jonathon Lax Scholarship Fund for Gay Men. These tuition awards are for $5,000 to $10,000 each. They honor inventor Jonathon Lax an inventor and entrepreneur. Recipients are gay men pursuing more education who live in the five county Philadelphia region.

Another is the Holly A. Cornell Scholarship. This $7,500 annual award is from the American Water Works Society. It goes to talented female and/or minority students. Recipients must be going for their degree and research in the field of water supply and treatment.  

Why Consider Grad School Scholarships? 

A grad degree may lead to higher lifetime earnings and more job potential. One recent study compared salaries for people with and without a grad degree. It found that people with a grad degree earn more and experience less unemployment.   

Unemployment Rates and Weekly Earnings by Education Level 

Education LevelUnemploymentAvg Weekly Earnings
Doctorate1.0%$2,083
Professional Degree1.4%$2,080
Master’s Degree1.9%$1,661
Bachelor’s Degree2.2%$1,432 

But the average costs of grad school has been climbing. At last check, the average cost of grad school at a public in state school was $12,596. A degree program at a private school was $28,017. 

While scholarship amounts vary, they may bring your goals within reach. They can help pay for tuition, travel fees, books, and other expenses. Especially if you have other spending needs like housing and children. 

Grad School Scholarships for 2025 and Beyond 

This curated list has eleven of the top grad school scholarships you can apply to in 2025. We selected a broad array of grad majors. Make sure to expand your search if you do not see one in your field.

1 Global Citizen Scholarship


MPower Financing’s mission is to support international students and their career goals. Each year, they offers three Global Citizen Scholarships. One $5,000 scholarship, and a $3,000 and $2,000 one.

You do not need to be a borrower to apply. These scholarships will be given to one student from each of the following countries/regions: India, Asia (excluding India), Latin America/Caribbean, and Africa. All winners must be students at a school MPOWER supports. 

Amount:Varies

Deadline:July

Requirements: Check site to see requirements for eligibility.

2 Women in STEM Scholarship


To support future innovation, MPower Financing offers three annual Women in STEM Scholarships. One $5,000 scholarship, one $3,000 one, and one $2,000 one.

You do not need to be a borrower to apply. Awards go to female international/DACA students who are currently enrolled or accepted to study full time in a STEM degree program at a school MPOWER supports. This means any program in science, tech, engineering and math that leads to a bachelor’s, master’s or PhD.

Amount:Varies

Deadline:July

Requirements: Check site to see requirements for eligibility.

3 Women Techmakers Scholarship


The Women Techmakers Scholars, sponsored by Google, honors Anita Borg. Anita’s vision was to create gender equality in the tech field.  

Women Techmakers Scholars in the U.S. will each receive $10,000 USD. Or $5,000 CAD (for students in Canada) for the school year. All recipients get an invite to the annual Google Scholars Retreat. 

Amount:$10,000

Deadline:Fall

Requirements: Applicants must plan to be full time bachelor’s, master’s or PhD students. Other criteria include a strong academic record and leadership skills. Plus, you need to major in computer science, computer engineering or a technical field.

4 Virginia Nurse Practitioner/Nurse Midwife Scholarship Program


Each year the Virginia Department of Health awards Nurse Practitioner/Nurse Midwife Scholarships. The program provides a scholarship award of about $5,000. The number of recipients depends on funding. 

Amount:$5,000

Deadline:June 30

Requirements: Applicants must agree to two things. One is to practice full time as a nurse practitioner or nurse midwife. The other is to work in an under served area of Virginia. Preferred applicants are state residents and minority students. They must be in family practice, obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics, adult health, and geriatric nurse practitioner programs.

5 ONS Foundation Master’s Scholarship


Each year the Oncology Nursing Society Foundation offers scholarships. These $5,000 awards go to RNs committed to oncology nursing. The number of scholarships varies – last year there were fourteen. 

Amount:$5,000

Deadline:February 1

Requirements: Applicants must be pursuing either a master’s degree in nursing or a post master’s certificate. They must also be enrolled at an NLN or CCNE accredited School of Nursing. 

6 African American Heritage Endowed MBA Scholarship


Each year the University of Washington Foster School of Business offers a non renewable scholarship. The amount varies from $7,500 to $10,000. The scholarship is for an African American student at the Foster School of Business. Preferred applicants show academic excellence and business leadership. The recipient will also partner with the Consulting and Business Development Center to provide consulting to an African American owned business in the Seattle area.   

Amount: $7,500 – $10,000

Deadline:April 15

Requirements: Check site to see requirements for eligibility. 

7Davis Putter Scholarship


The Davis Putter Scholarship Fund helps those working for social and economic justice. The largest grant from the Davis Putter Scholarship Fund is $15,000 per year. These need based scholarships go to students who promote social change. Like being active in the struggle against racism, sexism, or homophobia.

Amount: $15,000

Deadline: April 1

Requirements: To apply, you need to be a current grad student or enrolled in a trade or technical program. A complete application also includes a 1,000 word essay that details progressive social activity. You must also provide two letters of recommendation, transcripts, and show financial need.

8Frederic G. MELCHER Scholarship


The American Library Association (ALA) offers 2 to 4 annual scholarships of $7,500 each. Called the Frederic G. Melcher Scholarships, they help grad students pay for an MLS or MLIS degree.

Amount: $7,500

Deadline: March 1

Requirements: Applicants must also plan to work in a children’s library. This work may be serving children up to and including the age of 14 in any type of library.

9Beinecke Scholarship Program


The Beinecke Scholarship set up in 1971 is a program of the Sperry Fund. The goal of the fund is to support grad education in the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. There are 20 awards granted each year. Candidates must plan to pursue a research focused master’s or PhD program in the arts, humanities, or social sciences.

Each Beinecke scholar receives $5,000 right before entering grad school, plus, an extra $30,000 while going to grad school. There are no geo restrictions on the use of the scholarship. Recipients may also combine the funds with other scholarships, assistantships, and research grants

Amount: $5,000 plus an extra $30,000 for grad school

Deadline: February 09

Requirements: To apply, applicants must contact their campus liaison at a partner institution. Each school in the program may nominate one candidate per year for the scholarship. Candidates must show financial need, scholastic achievement, and have a strong intellect.

10 Hertz Fellowships


Each year, the Hertz Foundation offers awards to fund the cost of pursuing a PhD. The Hertz Graduate Fellowship Award are merit based. They consist of a cost of education allowance and a personal support stipend. Successful applicants have the choice of two fellowships. One is $34,000 and a 9 month stipend. There is an extra $5,000 per year for Fellows with dependent children. The award is renewable each year for up to 5 years.

The second option is a coordinated fellowship. It offers a Hertz period which provides full tuition and $40,000/9 month personal stipend. There is an extra $5,000 per year for Fellows with dependent children. The award is renewable each year for up to 5 years. Plus, an NSF period which gives $8,000/ year supplemental stipend from Hertz. 

Amount: Varies

Deadline: October 23

Requirements: Fellows must attend one of the Foundation’s currently participating schools or petition the Foundation to include a school in the U.S. that they desire to attend.

11 Vercille Voss IFDA Graduate Student Scholarship


The International Furnishings and Design Association (IFDA) awards a $2,000 scholarship. The annual award is The Vercille Voss Graduate Student Scholarship. It is in memory of Vercille Voss. She was a long time Illinois Chapter member and mentor to new members and students.  

Amount: $2,000

Deadline: March 31

Requirements: The scholarship program is open to enrolled full or part time grad students. Applicants must be pursuing a degree in interior design or a related design program. The completed application packet must include a few things, such as samples of your design work and a letter of recommendation. You must also write a 200 to 400 word essay that explains your goals, special interests, and volunteer service, and what inspired you to pursue a career in this field.

What is a BBA Degree?

What Is a BBA Degree?

Get Matched for FREE to a BBA Degree!

What Does BBA Stand For?

BBA stands for Bachelor of Business Administration. This degree offers a comprehensive understanding of business fundamentals, earning it the nickname “holistic management degree” due to its general nature.   

In BBA programs, the emphasis lies in cultivating communication skills and honing business decision-making abilities. Moreover, these programs provide valuable insights into the factors that contribute to a business’s success. Interestingly, BBA degrees often focus on liberal arts subjects rather than intensive calculations. 

What Is the Difference Between BBA vs BSBA Degrees?  

Both the BBA and BSBA degrees share a solid foundation of business courses, covering topics like marketing, economics, operations, and business law. However, the key distinction lies in the extent of math and finance coursework. 

Typically, the BBA provides a well-rounded exploration of various facets of business. On the other hand, the BSBA leans towards a more math-oriented approach, immersing you in the realm of commerce. 

Most BSBA programs aim to cultivate an analytical mindset. You’ll delve into a company’s cash flow statement and budget, mastering the art of deciphering data and utilizing these insights to drive strategic decisions. 

Choosing between a BBA and BSBA may hinge on the specific skill sets you wish to develop, as the area of focus within your business administration degree can significantly shape your future career path. 

BBA Degree Coursework

In general, a BBA program encompasses a total of 120 credits. Around one third of these credits are dedicated to general education and liberal arts courses, which include subjects like public speaking, psychology, business writing, and English. 

The remaining portion of the curriculum constitutes the business core. In these classes, students gain a comprehensive understanding of how companies operate and develop an appreciation for applying these concepts in real-world business scenarios. 

This often means learning to manage people, finances, and risk for companies of all sizes. While no two programs are the same, some popular BBA classes might include these topics.  

  • Ethics and business law 
  • Management and leadership 
  • Intro to Marketing 
  • Micro and macro economics 
  • Business statistics 
  • Finance basics 

Along with your classes, you may have a capstone project or thesis. Most schools offer a menu of concentrations to help you tailor your studies too.  

According to the BLS, According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in business and financial occupations is expected to grow at a rate faster than the average for all occupations from 2023 to 2033. Additionally, the average annual salaries in this field are expected to be $99,580, which was higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of $48,570. 

How Long Does it Take to Earn a BBA? 

Earning a BBA or BSBA degree typically takes four years of full-time study. However, if you have transfer credits, you may be able to expedite the process. Certain colleges also provide accelerated programs or offer a 4 + 1 option for those planning to pursue a master’s degree. In a 4 + 1 program, your bachelor’s and master’s classes can overlap, allowing you to complete both degrees in a shorter timeframe. 

BSBA Degree Coursework

A BSBA program consists of 120 credits, focusing on the scientific aspects of business. Compared to a BBA, the BSBA narrows its scope to delve deeper into specific topics. 

This specialization may involve additional courses in accounting, banking, and finance, as well as subjects like calculus and business analytics. Some schools may also include technology-focused courses in their curriculum. 

The emphasis on these classes is to equip you with the ability to convert business intelligence into practical strategies. Ultimately, you will apply and integrate these skills into a final management capstone project. 

While no two BSBA programs are the same, these classes are popular. 

  • Managerial accounting 
  • Applied statistics 
  • Financial accounting 
  • Business systems analysis 
  • Principles of finance 
  • Micro and macro economics 

What Can You Do with a BBA or BSBA Degree?

With a BBA degree, you can develop essential skills in sales, marketing, and administration. Throughout the program, you’ll learn to create business plans, maintain accurate financial records, handle personnel matters, and navigate legal issues. 

These abilities can be beneficial if you aspire to start your own business or pursue entry-level positions such as accountant, loan officer, sales manager, or roles in human resources. 

On the other hand, a BSBA degree program hones various foundational skills, including accounting, finance, economics, management, marketing, and international business. This broad knowledge base opens up a wide range of career possibilities in the business world. 

You may also gain other useful abilities like leadership and analysis. This may enable you to pursue entry level positions as:

 

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*https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d20/tables/dt20_311.15.asp

Sources for school statistics is the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics.

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1 You must apply for a new loan each school year. This approval percentage is based on students with a Sallie Mae undergraduate loan in the 2018/19 school year who were approved when they returned in 2019/20. It does not include the denied applications of students who were ultimately approved in 2019/20.

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