Business programs are among the most popular degree programs at colleges around the United States. Business degree programs give graduates diverse skill sets focusing on finance, problem-solving and management.
Business degree programs vary and can focus on marketing, human resources, international business or organizational communication, among other possibilities. Graduates can pick from a number of different careers with 2-year, 4-year or graduate degrees.
Business Management
There is not a single type of business that doesn't need management to be successful. Business managers utilize strong leadership, customer service and conflict resolution skills, as well as knowledge of an industry and dependability, to help businesses grow. Business program graduates are frequently chosen to lead companies because they have the skill sets needed to succeed. According to salary.com, salaries for business managers start at approximately $43,000 per year and vary by industry.
Human Resouces
Human resource departments are the central cogs in any organization, handling the hiring and termination of employees, employee relations, training, employee benefits and compensation and organizational development. There are a number of positions within human resource departments that are often filled by business graduates, including human resource directors, assistants, generalists and development directors. According to CNN Money, salaries for human resource positions start at approximately $69,000 per year.
Product Management
Product management is a career field for business degree graduates who enjoy marketing. Product managers analyze their product's market, which entails gathering information on demographics and comparison products. Product managers determine the viability of new products by analyzing data and determining if each product fits within a company's growth plan. Companies that hire product managers often offer products to the retail market, but product managers are also helpful to companies that sell music, information or services. In February 2007, indeed.com calculated the average annual salary for a product manager to be $67,000. Product manager salaries, like many other business-related salaries, are firmly tied to current economic conditions. Product manager salaries in 2005 averaged approximately $94,000 annually.
Public Relations
Public relations specialists serve as the public image for companies in industries like advertising, health care, educational services and government. Individual corporations and public relations firms are among the employers for public relations specialists. Generally, public relations specialists work in larger cities such as New York, Los Angeles and Chicago, as well as many other communication hubs.
Business majors should also focus on journalism, communications and advertising to be hired as public relations specialists. They must also possess the ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing, creativity, self-confidence and outgoing personalities.
Public relations specialists' salaries start in the mid-$40,000s for those who pursue government jobs. Larger firms offer starting salaries in the $50,000 to $60,000 range.
Financial Analyst
Financial analysts steer businesses and individuals through financial decisions, especially investments. They analyze financial data on companies and industries to help clients determine where to invest their funds. Frequently, financial analysts work for banks, insurance companies, securities firms, business media and other investment partners. Their workplaces can be in offices or in homes, and they typically work regular business hours. Financial analysts earn $45,000 to $60,000, according to a payscale.com poll.
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