How to Choose the Right Type of Business Degree

The right business degree can truly shape your career path and opportunities. Whether you’re beginning your professional journey, elevating your existing role, or scaling your business, we are here to help you find the business degree that best aligns with your aspirations.

Here is a detailed breakdown of 18 types of business degrees from the bachelor’s to doctoral levels, as well as a discussion of common degree specializations. We’ll also walk you through key considerations to help you choose the right fit for your future.

In this guide:

• Different Program Levels
• Types of Degree Specializations
• Bachelor’s Degrees in Business
• Specialized Master’s Degrees in Business
• Types of MBA Programs
• Doctoral Degrees in Business
• Factors in Choosing a Degree

Different Program Levels

There are many different types of business degrees to choose from, each with its own set of business courses and areas of focus. The first thing to understand is the different levels of business degrees available:

• Undergraduate: Associate degrees and bachelor’s degrees
• Graduate: Master’s degrees and doctoral degrees

Graduate business degrees can help professionals pivot or advance their careers, do high-level research, or prepare for new ventures. If you’re a first-time college student, explore undergraduate degrees in business.

Types of Business Degree Specializations

At undergraduate and graduate levels, a degree in business can lead to career opportunities across finance, marketing, management, accounting, and entrepreneurship. Many programs also offer specialized tracks or concentrations that allow students to focus their studies on a particular area of interest. Common business degree specializations include:

• International Business
• Entrepreneurship
• Accounting
• Finance
• Human Resources
• Supply Chain Management
• Marketing

Types of Bachelor’s Degrees in Business

A bachelor’s degree in business is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions across various industries and provide a strong foundation for graduate studies in business.

1. Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)

The BBA is a four-year undergraduate degree that allows you to major in various business specializations, as well as meet core requirements. 

BBA programs introduce students to career skills that apply to various industries, such as finance, marketing, human resources, and management. Graduates of BBA programs may also pursue graduate studies in business, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Master of Science (MS) in Business.

2. Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business

A Bachelor of Science in Business undergraduate degree gives you a foundational knowledge of how the business field functions. Students are prepared for a wide range of careers in business, including positions in finance, marketing, accounting, and management. 

Students in Bachelor of Science in Business programs may also have the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of business through elective courses, such as entrepreneurship, business management, supply chain management, or business analytics.

3. Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Business

BA in Business programs focus on giving students foundational business knowledge through liberal arts studies. These programs are designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in business and for graduate studies in business or related fields. 

Graduates of BA in Business programs may pursue careers in areas such as marketing, advertising, public relations, and management, as well as in fields outside business, such as law, government, and nonprofit organizations.

4. Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)

The Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) is a type of bachelor’s degree in business offered in many Commonwealth countries, particularly Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. BCom graduates may enter the job market or pursue graduate studies in business, such as an MBA or a Master of Science (MS) in Business.

BCom programs are designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in business, such as accounting, finance, marketing, business law, business operations, and management. A Bachelor of Commerce gives students general business knowledge and operational best practices, which are particularly helpful for small business owners.

Types of Specialized Master’s Degrees in Business

In many industries and fields, a specialized master’s degree is a pathway to career advancement for recent graduates and early and mid-career professionals. These degrees help students enter their desired field with specialization or build on their existing work experience to expand their skillset.

5. Master of Science (MS) in Business

MS in Business programs are designed for individuals who have already completed a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field and want to further their knowledge in business and distinguish themselves in the job market. 

MS Business degrees typically require students to complete a combination of core business courses in accounting, finance, marketing, and management, as well as advanced courses in data analysis, econometrics, and statistical modeling.

6. Master of Science (MS) in Entrepreneurship

A degree in entrepreneurship is an excellent option for students interested in starting their own businesses, as well as those seeking careers in innovation and new product development. 

This degree hones your management skills to help you be successful in complex leadership positions in startup or tech environments. If CEO doesn’t fit your desired job title, you can earn an entrepreneurship degree in preparation for roles in project management, operations management, or organizational leadership.

7. Master of Science (MS) in Human Resources

Human resources is a rapidly growing field, with increasing demand for skilled professionals who can help organizations attract and retain top talent. HR professionals can enhance their professional success with a master’s degree that imparts HR-specific management skills, conflict-resolution skills, and advanced instruction in billing, benefits, and more.

As businesses become more focused on creating positive work environments and developing diverse and inclusive workforces, the demand for HR professionals is expected to continue to grow. A master’s in HR may help graduates land roles in human resource management, recruitment, or as a services manager.

8. Master of Science (MS) in Marketing

A specialized marketing degree prepares students for advanced roles in in-house marketing departments or advertising agencies, where they can help businesses develop and implement the latest strategies to effectively reach their target audiences. 

This graduate degree dives deeper into consumer behavior, market research, and branding. You will be uniquely successful in this field if you have good management skills and a passion for building relationships with new and existing customers. 

9. Master of Finance (MFin)

Master of Finance degree programs typically include advanced courses in financial theory and practice, as well as courses in related areas such as investments, financial markets, and corporate finance. 

This degree prepares students for careers in finance, where they can help businesses and organizations make informed financial decisions and manage their financial operations. Roles in this area of business include sales manager, banker, financial analyst, or financial advisor.

10. Master of Accountancy (MAcc)

Accounting master’s programs typically include advanced courses in accounting theory and practice, as well as courses in related areas such as taxation, auditing, and financial statement analysis. Many of these master’s degree programs require students to complete a certain number of hours of work experience in the accounting field, often through internships or other professional opportunities. 

An accounting degree gives students the fundamentals for careers in accounting and finance, or pursue professional certifications in accounting, auditing, and financial services. Or, help businesses manage their financial operations. 

11. Master of Science (MS) International Business

A master’s in international business prepares students for careers in global industries, focusing on the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world. Some programs also offer valuable international experiences, such as global programs or residencies abroad. This area of business teaches you how to successfully run businesses abroad and can lead to various roles in foreign markets.

12. Master of Science (MS) Supply Chain Management

Supply chain management is expanding rapidly, with increasing demand for skilled professionals to help organizations meet the challenges of a globalized economy. As businesses become more focused on reducing costs and improving efficiency, the demand for SCM professionals is expected to continue to grow.

Even during the pandemic, supply chain careers were resilient – 95% of supply chain professionals were able to keep their jobs, per the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). Master’s in business programs focused on supply chain concepts are a career advancement pathway that leads to increased salaries and responsibility.

Types of MBA Programs

Master of Business Administration (MBA programs) are highly competitive and respected graduate business programs for individuals who have a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field, and who are looking to further their education and advance their careers.

People who pursue an MBA typically have about 5 years of work experience or enroll in an early-career program. Learn more about the differences between MBAs and other master’s in management programs.

Let’s break down the types of MBA programs business schools typically offer. 

13. Executive MBA

Executive MBA (EMBA) programs are designed for seasoned professionals looking to master strategic decision-making and high-impact leadership. While traditional programs focus on management, the EMBA expands your global business acumen, innovation skills, and real-world application. Many EMBA programs allow executives to continue working; for example, at Crummer, the EMBA schedule requires only one weekend of classes per month.

Our AACSB-accredited EMBA emphasizes practical experience through company visits, a capstone project, and a global residency. This degree is perfect for those ready to broaden their influence without pausing their careers. It equips you with the high-level perspective needed to lead and make an impact at the highest organizational levels.

Read our blog to learn more about the differences between executive and traditional MBAs.

14. Full-Time MBA

Traditional full-time programs are the most common type of MBA. Also sometimes called “professional MBAs,” full-time MBAs typically require taking time off from work to fully dedicate time to rigorous learning that helps you refine your judgment, expand your perspective, and prepare for greater influence.

It’s becoming more common for full-time MBAs to be fully or partially online (hybrid)to meet today’s professionals, entrepreneurs, and business owners where they are in their busy lives. The Crummer Professional MBA offers a hybrid format with up to 45% of classes online, ideal for professionals ready to build lasting professional momentum without stepping away from the workforce.

Worried about working and studying full-time? Read our working MBA student tips.

15. Early Advantage MBA

Early Advantage MBA programs, also known as early career MBAs, are full-time programs specifically tailored for recent college graduates and career changers with little to no professional experience. They focus on broad business acumen through coursework in strategy, marketing, finance, operations, and data analysis.

A key feature of the Early Advantage MBA program at Crummer is a robust tradition of internship assistance, which provides the hands-on experience needed to craft the career you dream of. Early Advantage MBA programs are a launchpad for early-career learners to develop leadership judgement, practical skills, and a professional network.

Read our comprehensive blog on Early Advantage MBA programs.

16. Accelerated MBA

Accelerated MBA degree programs condense the full-time MBA curriculum into a shorter timeframe for those looking to build on existing business skills. In just one year, instead of the traditional two, Accelerated MBAs may be the best fit if you’re willing to double the rigor to change your career.

Accelerated programs can have any specialized focus or other features. For example, Crummer’s STEM-designated Accelerated MBA program stands out by its inclusion of courses covering the latest technical skills in AI, business analytics, financial strategy, modeling and simulation, and risk management.

Read our guide to accelerated MBAs and learn everything you need to know.

Doctoral Degrees in Business

Beyond master’s degrees, two main types of doctoral degrees in business offer the most advanced levels of business education. These highly rigorous programs, which typically take five to seven years to complete, can focus either on advanced professional practice for leadership in the workplace or on academic research that contributes new knowledge to the field.

17. Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Doctoral business programs typically focus on how to solve complex business situations through advanced skills in research methodology, statistics, and data analysis. Graduates of these programs are well-equipped to pursue academic careers and leadership positions in industry or government, where their research skills and expertise can improve business operations and success.

DBA programs typically involve advanced business theory and practice courses, research methodology, and data analysis. Students are also required to conduct original research under the guidance of a faculty advisor and to write and defend a dissertation to earn the doctorate.

18. Ph.D. in Business

Ph.D. programs in business typically involve advanced coursework in research methodology, data analysis, and business theory. Students also complete forward-thinking independent research projects under the guidance of a faculty advisor. This research usually focuses on improving the understanding of business concepts or developing new ways to enhance the education of business students and professionals.

Students are required to complete a dissertation that makes a significant contribution to the field of business and defend it before a committee of experts. After graduation, career paths include research and academic positions in educational institutions or private organizations.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Business Degree

With so many degree options available, it’s important to understand your interests, professional goals, and personal preferences. By aligning your degree with your career goals, you can acquire the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in your desired field.

• Personal Interests and Career Goals: Specialist degrees may be the norm in fields like accounting, but if you want advanced management skills that transfer, an MBA may be the right fit.
• Cost and Time Commitment: Weigh the benefits of the degree against the cost required. A business degree can be expensive and time-consuming, but it can also provide a significant return on investment in terms of career opportunities and earning potential.
• Program and School Reputation: Accreditation, rankings, and reviews from current and former students can help you see the full picture of a school. Accreditation, like MBA accreditation, shows a program meets established quality standards.
• Job Outlook and Potential Earnings: Use government sources and local job listings to research the job outlook and average salary across different business fields. This can help you project how much you may make in five or ten years.

Explore Rollins MBA’s graduate degree and certificate program offerings in graduate business education.

It’s Time to Find Your Business Degree

Different types and levels of business degrees, from undergraduate programs to early-career and specialized master’s options, enable you to deepen your expertise and operational knowledge. Then, an MBA can prepare you to lead through uncertainty.

If you’re ready to take that next step, Crummer Graduate School of Business is here to support you every step of the way. Our range of MBA degrees elevates your career regardless of how much experience you have or where you are. Yet every one of our programs will help you to make better decisions and create impact that lasts.