Top Business Schools

Kaplan University

University of Phoenix

DeVry University

Degrees in Business

Which path will you pursue in business? Business degrees include those for accounting, banking and finance, management, e-commerce, economics, human resources, and operations.

Entry-Level Degrees

If you're looking for a quick, less expensive degree that will give you an emphasis in one area, consider a certificate, diploma, or associate's degree.

These degrees may focus on accounting, advertising, business administration, sales and marketing, banking, business management, human resources, health care, or criminal justice. Certificate and associate degree programs prepare you for entry-level positions, and can typically be completed in two years or less. And an associate degree can be an excellent first step toward earning a bachelor's degree later. Brown Mackie College and Rasmussen College are just two examples of schools witih certificate, diploma, or associate degree programs in business.

Bachelor's Degree in Business

The most common business degree is a bachelor's degree. The majority of jobs in finance, accounting, and management consulting require this degree. In fact, business programs in general are the most popular bachelor degree programs in the U.S. -- over 20% of all bachelor degrees awarded are in business. Those who hold a bachelor's degree in business have greater stability over the long term, and could earn as much as $20,000 more than those with associate degrees.

To meet this demand for bachelor degrees, nearly all four-year colleges and universities offer them in a variety of concentrations. Students can major in business administration, accounting, economics, finance, marketing, communications, entrepreneurship, or management. The University of Phoenix, American Intercontinental University, and Keiser College are just three examples of schools that offer bachelor degrees in business fields, both at traditional campus locations and online.

Advanced Degrees in Business

The master of business administration, or MBA, is often considered the top degree in the business world, although PhDs in certain specialties are certainly available. Competition for some of the world's most highly-regarded programs can be fierce and the curriculum can be very challenging. One such famous business school is the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, which offers MBA programs in 18 different majors. MBAs are also available online through schools such as Upper Iowa University, Drexel University, and Capella University.

Licensure

Depending on the field you pursue, you may need a license from your state along with your degree. Licensing is usually granted after a degree is earned and an exam taken. While rules vary state-to-state, most accountants will need to take the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Exam to become a CPA. Many positions in the insurance agency require licensure, as do loan officers, real estate brokers, and real estate agents. America's Career InfoNet provides a list of occupations and the states in which licensure is required.