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8 Types of business degrees you can study – and how to choose between them

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Studying a business degree is a great way to meet new people, gain professional connections and, more importantly, become an expert in your chosen major. That said, there are many types of business degrees to choose from, so where do you start?

In this article, we’ll take you through a list of business courses available at Swinburne Online and offer advice on how to pick your perfect major. We’ll also explain what you’ll learn in each course and provide info on the types of jobs you can get with a business degree.

What is a Bachelor of Business?

Simply put, a Bachelor of Business is an undergraduate qualification that prepares you for the business world. It’s here that you’ll learn all the crucial skills for success, from time management, leadership skills and critical thinking, to problem solving. So you can step into your new career after university with confidence and a fresh skillset.

There are many different types of business degrees to choose from, including accounting and finance, financial planning, marketing, logistics, sports management, and more. Usually, undergraduate courses take three to four years to complete, but it varies depending on your mode of study.

What is a major?

A major refers to a specific area of study you’ll focus on within your bachelor’s degree. Choosing a major will provide the opportunity to delve deeper into a particular area of business that interests you. For instance, if you have a passion for sport, you might like to consider choosing Sports Management as your major.

The best type of business degree will be the one that allows you to make the best use of your talents and skills. This is why it’s important to choose a major that’s suited to your personality.

What type of business degree should I get?

Choosing which business major can be a difficult process, especially when more than one area has caught your eye. So to make things easier, we’ve created a few tips to help you decide between the different degrees in business:

  1. Salary expectations – Does the major align with your salary expectations once you graduate. Consider which jobs are available to you and explore different paths.
  2. Interests – Is there a subject you’re naturally drawn to? Being interested in a subject will make it easier for you to have the drive to delve deeper into your major.
  3. Employment rate – Does the major offer routes into in-demand jobs? If you’re unsure, perhaps pick a major that doesn’t limit you to a specific job, as it’s good to keep your options open.
  4. Strengths – What are you good at? Are you a born salesperson? Do you have a knack for numbers? Try to identify your strengths so that they compliment your potential major.
  5. Your passion – Ideally, you’ll want to pick a major that captivates you. If you enjoy what you’re learning, chances are you’ll find your way to a career that’s meaningful and fulfilling.

 

What is the most useful business degree?

The most useful business degrees are ones that coincide with the most in-demand jobs, like marketing, finance, business, or accounting. These types of business degrees equip you with a range of valuable and versatile skills that can be applied to a host of careers.

Look for a business course that provides you with hands-on training, using the tools that are currently being used in the industry. For instance, if you choose to major in marketing, look for an institution that teaches you how to use relevant software (such as Google Analytics) that you can bring into your first job.

 

What type of business degrees are there?

Business degrees are popular among undergraduates and postgraduates, with plenty of options to choose from. Below, we’ll provide more detail about the different types of bachelor degrees in business, including the average salary, and the potential careers you can work towards after graduation.

 

Accounting

What you’ll learn:

Love numbers? Then a Bachelor of Business – Accounting might be the ideal major for you. It’s here that you’ll learn how to interpret and analyse financial statements, and how to use them to guide business decisions.

What’s more, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the international accounting standards and how they’re applied in Australia. On top of that, you’ll become an expert in financial analysis and problem solving to improve business decision-making.

Average salary:

The average salary for a Financial Analyst is between $95,000 and $115,000.

Job opportunities:

  • Accountant
  • Financial analyst
  • Financial adviser
  • Management accountant
  • Audit
  • Controller

 

Business Administration

What you’ll learn:

In the Bachelor of Business – Business Administration you’ll learn a wide range of skills that can be used in real workplace situations, like how to manage people and lead the business strategy. You’ll also be able to identify and evaluate major trends in business and your industry. This will allow you to drive sales and innovation for companies

Swinburne Online offers one of the most sought-after types of business administration degrees because it allows you to gain practical skills in project management, analytics and strategic planning. Plus, you’ll get coaching sessions and assistance with your CV.

Average salary:

The average salary for a Project Manager in Australia is $125,000 – $145,000.

Job opportunities:

  • Data analyst
  • Project manager
  • Business adviser
  • Insurance underwriter
  • Supply chain manager
  • Risk manager

 

Finance

What you’ll learn:

The Bachelor of Business – Finance will teach you how to analyse credit and interest risk, as well as emerging finance, like cryptocurrency. You’ll also learn the difference between microeconomic and macroeconomic concepts, and the impact it can have on decision making in a company.

Average salary:
The average salary in Australia for a Finance Manager is $120,000 to $140,000.

Job opportunities:

  • Stockbroker
  • Entrepreneur
  • Accountant
  • Business analyst
  • Financial analyst

 

Financial Planning

What you’ll learn:

During your time studying for a Bachelor of Business – Financial Planning, you’ll learn the major principles of tax and planning issues. Ultimately, you’ll learn all the crucial skills to help clients and companies reach their financial goals.

What’s more, you’ll learn about retirement planning, and gain an understanding of pure risk on individuals and society.

Average salary:
The average annual salary for a Financial Planner in Australia is between $110,000 and $130,000.

Job opportunities:

  • Financial planner
  • Financial adviser
  • Paraplanner
  • Business analyst
  • Business development manager
  • Commercial analyst

 

Logistics and Supply Chain Management

What you’ll learn:

Students studying the Bachelor of Business – Logistics and Supply Chain Management will learn how to manage the flow of goods and to develop vital project management skills. You’ll also learn how to manage logistical operations at every level, and gain the necessary skills to develop strategies and minimise risk.

Average salary:

The average annual salary for a Supply Chain Manager in Australia is between $135,000 to $155,000.

Job opportunities:

  • Operations manager
  • Logistics manager
  • Inventory controller
  • Logistics analyst
  • Supply chain manager

 

Management

What you’ll learn:

Those who choose to study the Bachelor of Business – Management will be immersed in the world of leadership. Whether that’s understanding what influences a strong culture in an organisation or learning how to respond to challenging environments, you’ll become an expert so that you can step into a career with ease.

Swinburne Online offers one of the most sought-after types of business management degrees because it keeps you connected to the industry throughout your studies. Students frequently hear from guest speakers who’ve had extensive experience in the world of business.

Average salary:
The average annual salary for a General Manager in Australia is between $145,000 and $165,000. 

Job opportunities:

  • Manager
  • Entrepreneur
  • Project manager
  • Business Development Manager
  • General manager
  • Account manager

 

Marketing

What you’ll learn:

Interested in marketing? The Bachelor of Business – Marketing teaches you how to identify and develop innovative projects for brands to meet specific targets. You’ll even learn how to create strategies for real clients, and get comfortable using important tools like Google Analytics.

Average salary:
The average annual salary for a Marketing manager in Australia is between $100,000 and $120,000.

Job opportunities:

  • Marketing manager
  • Social media manager
  • Market research analyst
  • Account manager
  • Brand manager

 

Sports Management

What you’ll learn:

Studying the Bachelor of Business – Sports Management is a great way to turn something you’re passionate about into a profession. You’ll be taught how to manage sporting clubs (at all levels), organise events, and run sport organisations. Plus, you’ll even learn more about advertising in sport, including using tools like social media and fan engagement to your advantage.

Average salary:

The average annual salary for Sports Administrator jobs in Australia ranges between $60,000 and $70,000.

Job opportunities:

  • Sports operations manager
  • Sports media and marketing manager
  • Partnership and sponsorship manager
  • Events coordinator
  • Team manager

 

What are the different postgraduate business degrees?

At Swinburne Online, there are plenty of postgraduate business degrees available to study. These include:

Our courses offer lots of benefits too, both professionally and socially. Not only do they provide practical and industry-focused skills, but they also give you networking opportunities. You have the chance to meet other professionals from diverse backgrounds, collaborate with them, and grow your professional connections.

Want to learn more about whether the Bachelor of Business at Swinburne Online is right for you? Contact our friendly Course Consultants for further information.

FAQ

A.
The best type of business major depends on your interests, strengths, and career aspirations. If you’re drawn to numbers, Accounting might be your calling. If you have a passion for creative problem solving, Marketing could be your niche. Ultimately, the best major is one that aligns with your unique talents and fuels your enthusiasm to succeed.
A.
In Australia, the best business degree is one that aligns with your career goals and provides comprehensive skills. Degrees like Bachelor of Business, specialising in fields like Accounting, Finance, or Management, offer a strong foundation. However, the “best” degree is the one that resonates with your ambitions and equips you with practical knowledge for success.
A.
A Bachelor of Business is among the most versatile degrees you can pursue. This comprehensive program covers key areas like Accounting, Marketing, Finance, and more. It provides a well-rounded education, making you adaptable across industries and roles. This versatility ensures you’re equipped to tackle various challenges in the business world.
A.
When it comes to starting a business, a Bachelor of Business – Entrepreneurship can be an invaluable asset. This specialised degree hones your skills in innovation, risk management, and strategic planning – all crucial for launching and sustaining a successful venture. It equips you with the tools to turn your business idea into a thriving reality.