What is Business Administration?
Business administration is a phrase that can encompass a wide range of specialized fields. Prior to searching for a business administration degree program, it’s essential to consider in which field you want to specialize. After all, you can manage a department focused on accounting, marketing, human resources, run the office as an office manager, maintain warehousing and ensure supplies are always available when needed, and more. Numerous colleges and institutions offer degrees in business administration, so it’s also essential to conduct some research and choose a program that meets your needs. There are many degree levels offered, ranging from an associate degree to a doctoral degree in this field.
There are certainly colleges and universities throughout Pennsylvania that offer business administration degree programs. These programs involve between two and four years of full-time study and can include a combination of general education, business, and optional specialization courses. In addition to on-campus programs, numerous Pennsylvania colleges offer online degree programs in business administration, which can help those who may have gone right into the work force after high school and now wish to improve their education in order to gain access to more professional opportunities.
There are numerous opportunities in business, and the field is bursting with possibilities. You can work for a company or start one yourself. Regardless of your career choice, there are many advantages to earning a degree in business administration.
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Online Business Administration Education in Pennsylvania
A business administration professional is someone who oversees and coordinates at least some of the operations of a company or organization. They are responsible for ensuring that all areas of the business are running smoothly and that goals are being met. Business administration professionals typically have a degree in general business or business management or administration, and they may have experience in a variety of industries. They must be able to multitask and also need strong leadership and communication skills.
As a business administrator, your earning potential is likely to rise with more experience, good performance, and additional education and certification. Obtaining a business administration certification not only shows employers that you are capable in whatever skill the certification teaches, but also that you are willing to keep learning. You can these, and more education, as steppingstones to advancement. Many people with bachelor's degrees in business administration eventually pursue master's degrees to further their education and improve their career. Many higher-level positions require a master’s-level degree, and the higher your education, the greater your earning potential can be.
If you enjoy problem-solving, budgeting, and managing people, a career in business administration may be the right choice for you. This field focuses on the operations and management of an organization and requires discipline in scheduling and budgeting. In addition, the skills and knowledge you develop in the field will transfer to many other areas. No matter where you start, a degree in business administration can open many doors.
Online Associate Degree in Business Administration (AS)
In today's economy, a college degree is more important than ever. However, for many people, attending a traditional four-year college is not an option, either because they are already in the work force or because of the expense of a four-year degree. That's where online associate degrees in business administration can be a lifesaver. An online associate degree in general business or business administration can provide you with the skills you need to start or further your career in business, management, and a number of specialized fields.
An associate degree typically takes two years to complete, and online degrees can be completed from anywhere in the world. In this field, you will learn about topics such as accounting, marketing, and human resources. In addition, many programs offer specializations in areas such as entrepreneurship or international business. An online associate degree in business administration can be used to transition into a bachelor's degree program or to get a job in the business world. If you attend an accredited school, you may be able to transfer enough credits that you start your next degree as a junior rather than a freshman. And, following this path can save you money in the long run, because two years in an associate degree program is nearly always less expensive than two years in a bachelor’s degree program.
Online Bachelors Degree in Business Administration (BS)
In recent years, online education has become more and more popular at every level. This is likely due to the flexibility it offers students. With online education, students can learn at their own pace and in their own home. This makes it a great option for busy adults or those who have other commitments that prevent them from attending traditional classes.
The most commonly earned degree in business is a bachelor’s, and a bachelor’s in business administration degree can help you to start your career headed into management rather than all the way at the bottom. You’ll still need to spend some time at the entry level, but it’s likely to be shorter than it is for those with an associate degree or general business education. A business administration degree can also lead to a variety of careers because it is a versatile degree that can be applied to many different industries and can help you make your way into different fields that are part of business: marketing, accounting, HR, IT management, etc.
If you are interested in getting an online bachelor's degree in business administration, there are a few things you should know. First, unless you’ve transferred credit hours into your program, it will take around four years to complete if you attend full-time. Second, you should do your best to find an internship toward the end of your degree program because experience counts for a lot in business. And third, if you know you want to focus on a specialty, such as HR, you should do so as early in your education as possible.
Online Master’s Degree in Business Administration (MS or MBA)
Obtaining a Master's in Business Administration (MBA) can open many doors for your career. An MBA is one of the most versatile degrees available and can lead to many opportunities in both the public and private sectors. This is especially true for those who choose to earn an MBA with a concentration in their chosen field: marketing, HR, business statistics and analysis, etc. Earning your MBA online provides you with the same quality education as attending a brick-and-mortar institution, but with added flexibility to accommodate your busy lifestyle.
There are many different online MBA programs available, so it’s important to do your research before making a decision. Make sure to consider the school's accreditation, faculty, curriculum, and student services. Also, be sure to ask questions about the program's format and how much interaction you will have with other students and professors.
Online PhD Degree in Business Administration (PhD)
A PhD in business administration is designed to train students to be senior leaders who can influence business decisions. These programs often emphasize emerging technologies and research-based leadership strategies. PhD students complete subject matter courses, original research, and then write their dissertation, which must be defended before a panel. Mentoring from professors will guide students through the dissertation process and, while completing the dissertation, students will gain valuable industry experience. The degree requirements may differ slightly between on-campus and online PhD programs, so make sure you know what your program will look like before signing up.
These programs usually take between two and three years to complete. Coursework typically comprises 50 to 70% of the credits required for the program. Upon completion of coursework, students select a research area and work with a supervisor to develop a dissertation. Dissertation writing is considered the most difficult aspect of any PhD, including those in business administration.
Online Business Administration Certifications
Obtaining a business administration certification can be a great way to improve your career prospects. There are many different certifications available, and the right one for you will depend on your specific career goals. Some popular certifications include the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification, the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification, and the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
To find the right certification for you, start by doing some research on the different options available. Consider your education and work experience, as well as your career goals. Then, compare different certifications to see which one would be the best fit. Once you've chosen a certification, it's important to make sure you're ready to take the exam. The exam may require months of preparation, so start studying early.
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Become a Business Administrator in Pennsylvania
In order to become a business administration professional in Pennsylvania, there are certain steps that must be followed.
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Step 1: Earn an online degree in business administration
Business administration is a field of study that prepares students for careers in business. The curriculum typically includes courses in accounting, finance, marketing, and management. Business administration degrees are offered at the associate, bachelor’s, and master's levels. Students who graduate with a business administration degree can pursue careers in a variety of industries including banking, marketing, real estate, retail, and more. They may also find employment in government or non-profit organizations. In order to be successful in business, you need to have a well-rounded education. While there are many different routes you can take to gain the skills you need, studying business administration is one of the most popular options that can quickly lead to management positions. By pursuing a degree in business administration, you will learn about all aspects of running a business, from accounting and finance to marketing and human resources. This knowledge will give you the foundation you need to start your own company or work in a corporate environment.
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Step 2: Gain experience in the field of business administration
Business administration is a field that is constantly growing and changing. It’s important to have experience in the field to be successful. There are many ways to gain experience in business administration. One way is to get a job in the field. Another way is to attend school and get a degree in business administration, which can help you gain access to internships. Internships can give you a chance to learn about a company, an industry, and the business world in general. There are also many workshops and seminars that can help you gain experience in business administration as well, or at least something to put on your resume. And all of these can lead to better job opportunities, which help you develop your skills and knowledge in order to be successful in your career.
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Step 3: Gaining certification in business administration
The business administration field is a vast and ever-growing industry. To ensure that you have the best chance for success, it’s important to get certified if you can. Obtaining certification in business administration can show employers that you are serious about your career and have the skills necessary to be successful. There are many different types of certification available, so it’s important to find one that matches your interests and goals. One common type of certification is the Certified Business Administrator (CBA) designation from the National Association of Certified Business Administrators (NACBA). This certification is designed for individuals who work in or aspire to work in middle or senior management positions in business or government organizations.
What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Business Administration?
The field of business administration can lead to many different career paths. With a bachelor's degree in business administration, you could work as a financial analyst, human resources manager, marketing director, or operations manager. You could also pursue a career in entrepreneurship or start your own business. The skills you learn in business administration courses can be applied in a variety of industries, so you can find a job that fits your interests and goals.
Potential Career Options and Salaries for Business Administration Graduates
- Public Services/Works Director:
A public services or works director is responsible for the overall management of the public works department. A public works department may oversee utilities, such as water or electricity, trash pickup, and more. They may also oversee recruitment and plan on-the-job work training.
Necessary Requirements:
- A bachelor's degree in public administration or a related field
- At least 5 years of experience in public works or a related field
- Supervisory experience
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for social and community service managers in the US in 2021 was $74,000 and administrative service managers earned $100,170
- The mean annual wage for social and community service managers in Pennsylvania is $75,200 and administrative service managers earn $113,000
- Non-Profit Director:
A non-profit director is responsible for the overall operation and management of the organization. They develop and implement strategic plans, set goals and objectives, and ensure that the organization is compliant with all regulations. They also oversee the fundraising and financial management of the organization.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in business or related field
- 5+ years of experience in non-profit management
- Strong financial management skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for public relations and fundraising managers in the US in 2021 was $119,860 and fundraising managers earned $100,810. General and operations managers earned $97,970
- The mean annual wage for public relations managers in Pennsylvania is $124,420 and fundraising managers earned $115,910. General and operations managers earned $113,840
- Supply Chain Manager:
A supply chain manager is responsible for the planning and execution of all supply chain operations. They will develop and implement strategies to improve efficiency and reduce costs and will also be responsible for managing relationships with suppliers and customers.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in business, supply chain management, or related field
- 5+ years of experience in supply chain management or related field
- Experience with ERP/MRP systems
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for logisticians in the US in 2021 was $77,030. Purchasing managers earned $127,150 and transportation, storage, and distribution managers earned $98,230
- The mean annual wage for logisticians in Pennsylvania is $76,840. Purchasing managers earned $138,410 and transportation, storage, and distribution managers earned $104,580
- Project Manager:
A project manager is responsible for the overall coordination, management, and successful completion of projects. They work closely with project teams to ensure that all project objectives and deadlines are met.
Necessary Requirements:
- Proven experience as a Project Manager
- Strong communication, organizational and leadership skills
- Excellent time management skills
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
- Project Management certification is an asset
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for project management specialists in the US in 2021 was $94,500
- The mean annual wage for project management specialists in Pennsylvania is $90,340
- Product Manager:
A product manager is responsible for the development and management of products throughout the product life cycle. This includes managing the product roadmap, gathering requirements, conducting market research, managing product launches, and more. They work closely with other teams such as engineering, marketing, and sales to ensure successful product development and adoption.
Necessary Requirements:
- Proven experience as a Product Manager or similar role
- Strong understanding of the product development life cycle
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
- Strong project management skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for industrial production managers in the US in 2021 was $103,150
- The mean annual wage for industrial production managers in Pennsylvania is $107,620
- Digital Marketing Manager/Director:
A digital marketing manager is responsible for developing and managing digital marketing campaigns that promote a company's products and services. They work closely with other marketing and advertising managers to ensure that all campaigns are effective and meet customer needs. A director usually oversees a group of marketing teams that all have their own manager.
Necessary Requirements:
- Proven experience in digital marketing
- Strong analytical and project management skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Creative thinking and problem-solving abilities
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for marketing managers in the US in 2021 was $133,380
- The mean annual wage for marketing managers in Pennsylvania is $139,350
- Chief Marketing Manager:
A chief marketing manager is responsible for leading the marketing department and developing marketing strategies to promote the company's products and services. They collaborate with other departments to ensure that the marketing campaigns are aligned with the company's overall objectives and they also oversee the budget for marketing initiatives and monitors the results of marketing campaigns.
Necessary Requirements:
- A bachelor's degree in marketing, business, or a related field
- 7+ years of experience in marketing management
- Strong leadership and communication skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for marketing managers in the US in 2021 was $133,380
- The mean annual wage for marketing managers in Pennsylvania is $139,350
- Accounting Associate:
An accounting associate will be responsible for a variety of accounting tasks including those dealing with accounts receivable, accounts payable, and general ledger. They will also be responsible for assisting with month-end close and special projects as needed.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field
- 1-3 years of accounting experience
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks in the US in 2021 was $45,560 and accountants and auditors earned $77,250
- The mean annual wage for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks in Pennsylvania is $44,470 and accountants and auditors earned $79,200
- Financial Advisor:
A financial advisor provides advice to clients on how to best manage their finances. This may include investments, retirement planning, and estate planning. Financial advisors may work for a financial institution or be self-employed.
Necessary Requirements:
Learn more about all business admin career paths- Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or a related field
- Experience in the financial industry
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for personal financial advisors in the US in 2021 was $94,170
- The mean annual wage for personal financial advisors in Pennsylvania is $136,830
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