High-paying jobs for business majors are more accessible than you might think. A business major is a versatile degree that teaches you how companies work, from managing people and funds to marketing products and making wise decisions.

Whether you’re studying finance, marketing, or management, this major opens the door to many industries and career paths. It’s popular for students who want flexibility, stability, and strong earning potential after graduation.

In this article, we’ll explore the 15 most common jobs for business majors who can secure and excel in high-paying business jobs. Let’s see what kinds of opportunities your degree can lead to and what each job is about.

Key Takeaways

  • A business major teaches you how companies work, covering industries like finance, marketing, and management. It’s a flexible degree that can lead to various careers.
  • There are many careers for business majors, from helping manage people in HR to crunching numbers as an accountant or building client relationships in sales.
  • Some of the best jobs for business administration pay really well, especially if you grow into leadership roles or work in finance or tech.
  • You don’t need years of experience to get started in business. There are solid entry-level jobs like junior analyst, marketing coordinator, or sales rep, where you can build your skills.
  • When looking for 6-figure jobs with a business degree, it’s important to first think about what matters most to you, whether it’s a high salary, good work-life balance, strong job growth, or the possibility of further study.

15 Jobs for Business Majors With Salaries and Requirements

Below are 15 popular jobs for business majors, their average salaries, and key requirements to help you explore your options.

#1. HR Specialist

As an HR Specialist, you’ll be the go-to person for bringing new talent on board, helping employees grow in their roles, smoothing over workplace conflicts, and making sure the company follows labor regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Oversee recruitment and employee onboarding processes.
  • Administer benefits programs, including health insurance and retirement plans.
  • Handle employee relations, addressing issues such as conflicts and complaints.
  • Ensure compliance with employment laws and organizational policies.
  • Support performance management and employee development initiatives.

Requirements:

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • A solid understanding of labor laws and workplace regulations.
  • Organizational abilities to handle multiple responsibilities simultaneously.
  • Detail-oriented approach to managing sensitive information.

 

HR specialists typically earn around $67,650 per year, based on the latest figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employment in this field is projected to grow by 8% from 2023 to 2033.

#2. Accountant

Accountants manage financial records, conduct audits, and ensure compliance with tax laws, helping to maintain a company’s financial health.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Prepare and review financial records.
  • Ensure compliance with tax regulations and laws.
  • Provide advice on cost-saving strategies and budgeting.
  • Handle tax filings and company finances.

Requirements:

  • Proficiency with accounting software and financial tools.
  • Strong analytical and organizational skills.
  • Understanding of financial regulations and reporting standards.
  • The ability to communicate complex financial data in a simple manner.

 

As of May 2023, the median annual wage for accountants was $79,880, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employment of accountants is expected to grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033.

#3. Business Development Specialist

Business development specialists focus on expanding a company’s market reach, searching for new growth opportunities, and improving relationships with potential partners.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Identify and pursue new business opportunities and partnerships.
  • Develop and implement strategies to attract and retain clients.
  • Conduct market research to understand industry trends and customer needs.
  • Manage negotiations and formalize business agreements.
  • Collaborate with teams across departments to ensure alignment with business goals.

Requirements:

  • Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
  • Analytical abilities to assess market trends and opportunities.
  • Creative problem-solving to identify solutions that drive business growth.
  • Experience in building and maintaining relationships with clients and partners.

 

According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for a business development specialist was $88,040 in May 2023. This role is projected to see an 8% increase in employment from 2023 to 2033.

#4. Business Analyst

Business analysts dig into how a company runs, looking for bottlenecks and inefficiencies. They’re essentially problem-solvers who help streamline operations and boost performance.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Analyze business operations and identify inefficiencies.
  • Gather and interpret data to make informed recommendations.
  • Collaborate with teams to implement solutions and improvements.
  • Monitor performance and adjust strategies as needed.

Requirements:

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Proficiency in data analysis and business intelligence tools.
  • Ability to communicate complex data clearly to stakeholders.
  • Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.

 

Business analysts had a median annual salary of $99,410 in May 2023, as reported by the Occupational Outlook Handbook. The occupation is expected to grow by 11% from 2023 to 2033.

#5. Account Manager

Account managers are in charge of managing relationships with clients or customers on behalf of a company. They build and nurture client relationships, handle inquiries, and ensure customers are satisfied with the company’s products or services.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Serve as the main point of contact for client inquiries and issues.
  • Develop and maintain strong client relationships.
  • Manage contracts and negotiations, ensuring mutual benefit for both parties.
  • Collaborate with internal teams to ensure client needs are met.
  • Monitor account performance and proactively address any concerns.

Requirements:

  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Strong organizational skills to manage multiple client accounts.
  • Problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to work with various internal teams.

 

According to Payscale, the median annual wage for an account manager is $63,565.

#6. Financial Controller

Financial controllers oversee a company’s accounting and financial operations. They ensure that financial records are accurate and regulatory standards are met. Financial controllers help manage the company’s financial strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Oversee financial reporting, including income statements, balance sheets, and budgets.
  • Ensure compliance with financial regulations and auditing standards.
  • Manage and analyze cash flow, expenses, and profits.
  • Supervise the finance team and provide training or support when needed.
  • Assist upper management with financial planning and strategic decisions.

Requirements:

  • In-depth knowledge of accounting principles and financial regulations.
  • Strong leadership and team management skills.
  • Proficiency in financial analysis and reporting tools.
  • Detail-oriented and highly organized.

 

According to Payscale, the median annual wage for a financial controller is $95,433.

#7. Marketing Manager

Marketing managers develop strategies to promote a company’s products or services. They work closely with sales teams to increase visibility and recognition of the brand and sales growth.

Key Responsibilities

  • Plan and oversee marketing campaigns across various channels (digital, print, social media).
  • Analyze market trends and consumer behavior to adjust marketing strategies.
  • Develop content that aligns with the brand’s messaging.
  • Manage budgets for marketing activities and ensure cost-effective strategies.
  • Monitor and report on the performance of campaigns.

Requirements

  • Strong strategic and creative thinking.
  • Expertise in digital marketing tools and social media platforms.
  • Ability to analyze data and adjust campaigns accordingly.
  • Strong project management and leadership skills.

 

Marketing managers earned a median annual wage of $156,580 in May 2023, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook. Employment in marketing management is expected to grow by 8% from 2023 to 2033.

#8. Sales Manager

woman with a headset and microphone in a business meeting

Sales managers lead and motivate sales teams to achieve revenue goals. They develop strategies to increase sales, manage relationships with the company’s important clients, and oversee sales staff performance.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement sales strategies to achieve targets.
  • Manage sales teams by providing guidance, training, and support.
  • Build and maintain relationships with key clients.
  • Monitor and analyze data to optimize performance.
  • Report sales performance to senior management.

Requirements

  • Strong leadership and management abilities.
  • Expertise in sales strategies and performance analysis.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet targets.

 

According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for sales managers was $135,160 per year, and employment of sales managers is projected to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033.

#9. Financial Analyst

Financial analysts evaluate financial data and provide insights that help organizations make informed business decisions. They support budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning.

Key Responsibilities

  • Analyze financial data and provide recommendations for improving financial performance.
  • Develop financial models and forecasts to guide decision-making.
  • Monitor market trends and economic conditions to advise on investment decisions.
  • Prepare financial reports for senior management and stakeholders.
  • Ensure compliance with financial regulations.

Requirements

  • Strong quantitative and analytical skills.
  • Proficiency in financial modeling and data analysis tools.
  • Attention to detail and ability to interpret complex data.
  • Good communication skills for presenting findings to stakeholders.

 

The Occupational Outlook Handbook of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that financial analysts earned a median annual wage of $99,890 in 2023. Employment in this field is projected to increase by 9% from 2023 to 2033.

#10. Operations Manager

Operations managers keep the business running day to day. They ensure teams work efficiently, use resources wisely, and complete tasks on time..

Key Responsibilities

  • Oversee the production or delivery of services and ensure efficiency.
  • Manage workflows and implement improvements to enhance productivity.
  • Coordinate the allocation of resources, such as staff and equipment.
  • Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs).
  • Collaborate with other departments to ensure operational goals are met.

Requirements

  • Strong leadership and organizational skills.
  • Experience in process optimization and project management.
  • Ability to analyze data and make strategic adjustments.
  • Effective communication skills across various departments.

 

Data from the Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the median annual wage for operations managers was $129,330 in May 2023.

#11. Management Consultant

Management consultants help companies find better ways to operate. They’re brought in to look at how things are being done and suggest improvements that can save time, reduce costs, and increase efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Review business operations and identify areas for improvement.
  • Interview staff and analyze data to understand challenges.
  • Propose practical solutions for management and operational issues.
  • Help implement new processes or strategies when needed.

Requirements:

  • Strong critical thinking and analytical skills.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and work well with different teams.
  • Knowledge of business practices across industries.
  • Comfort with dynamic work.

 

As stated in the Occupational Outlook Handbook of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for a management consultant was $99,410 in 2023, with employment in this field expected to grow by 11% from 2023 to 2033.

#12. Project Manager

Project managers plan and oversee specific company projects, ensuring that projects stay on schedule and within budget.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Create project timelines, budgets, and task lists.
  • Coordinate teams and resources to keep things moving smoothly.
  • Monitor progress and solve problems as they come up.
  • Communicate updates to clients or company leaders.

Requirements:

  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Experience with project management software.
  • Ability to multitask and adapt to changes.
  • Excellent communication and leadership skills.

 

According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, project managers earned a median annual wage of $98,580 in 2023. The demand for project managers is projected to increase by 7% from 2023 to 2033.

#13. Supply Chain Analyst

Supply chain analysts supervise products moving from manufacturers to customers, finding ways to make that journey faster, cheaper, and more reliably.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Track inventory, shipping, and logistics data.
  • Identify problems like delays or extra costs.
  • Suggest improvements to warehouses, transportation, or ordering systems.
  • Work closely with suppliers and internal teams.

Requirements:

  • Strong math and data analysis skills.
  • Familiarity with supply chain software.
  • Good problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Understanding of logistics and operations.

 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, the median annual wage for a supply chain analyst was $79,400 in May 2023. The employment outlook for this role is projected to grow by 19% from 2023 to 2033.

#14. Data Analyst

Data analysts work with numbers and information to help companies make better choices by turning raw data into valuable insights.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Collect and clean data from different sources.
  • Analyze patterns and trends using tools like Excel and SQL.
  • Create charts and reports to share findings.
  • Support business decisions with data-backed recommendations.

Requirements:

  • Proficiency in data tools (Excel, SQL, Python, etc.).
  • Strong attention to detail and critical thinking.
  • Ability to explain data in a way non-experts can understand.
  • Problem-solving mindset.

 

According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for a data analyst was $83,640 in May 2023, and employment of data analysts is projected to grow 23% from 2023 to 2033.

#15. Risk Analyst

Risk analysts look at what could go wrong in a business and help reduce those risks. They often work in banking, insurance, or large corporations.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Evaluate data to find potential risks to the company.
  • Help develop policies to limit financial or security threats.
  • Assess credit, market, and operational risks.
  • Report findings and offer suggestions to minimize exposure.

Requirements:

  • Strong background in finance or statistics.
  • Analytical skills and attention to detail.
  • Understanding of market trends and risk assessment tools.
  • Ability to explain findings clearly to decision-makers.

 

In May 2023, risk analysts, categorized under financial analysts, earned a median annual salary of $101,910, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employment for financial analysts, including risk analysts, is projected to increase by 9% from 2023 to 2033.

Entry-Level Jobs for Business Majors

Starting your career with a business major gives you various industry opportunities. Choosing the right first job is important, as it gives you a chance to turn academic knowledge into practical experience and define the direction of your professional path.

There are plenty of entry-level business degree jobs that offer a solid foundation, but the following three are most common:

  • Junior Analyst. This position typically supports business operations or IT departments and involves analyzing data, identifying inefficiencies, and improving business strategies. It’s a good fit for manufacturing, product development, or tech industries, where process improvement is vital for operational excellence.
  • Marketing Coordinator. In this role, you’ll help plan campaigns, manage social media schedules, and track marketing performance. It’s ideal for building communication, organization, project management, and social media skills early on.
  • Sales Associate. It is one of the most popular entry-level jobs for business graduates. It teaches you how to understand consumer needs, pitch a product, and negotiate deals, all skills useful in almost any business role.

 

All of these positions offer valuable exposure to how a business runs daily. They also help you develop core skills and build confidence to support long-term success.

4 Factors to Consider When Getting a Job in Business Administration

When you land a job in business administration with a business degree and a desire to learn, it can feel like the perfect start—the opportunity to gain real-world experience and expand your knowledge. However, it’s important to look at this decision from multiple angles, including the following:

Salary vs. Job Satisfaction

In business administration, you’ll build a strong foundation of knowledge and skills, which can lead to a higher salary as you advance. However, keep in mind that the initial enthusiasm may not always last. This job comes with many responsibilities, such as managing employees, budgeting, marketing, and ensuring the business runs efficiently.

All these tasks require significant involvement and, as your responsibilities grow, so does the potential for burnout. As a result, while the business degree may increase salary potential over time, job satisfaction can fluctuate depending on the demands placed on you.

Industry Growth and Job Outlook

An important factor to consider is that the job outlook for business majors is promising. As this field continues to grow, you’ll have many business degree career options to explore, from management roles to marketing and operations.

This diversity in career paths ensures that you’ll have the opportunity to find a job that aligns with your skills and interests.

Remote Work Potential

For those who value work-life balance, business administration can be a great fit. Many positions in this field now allow for remote jobs, giving flexibility for managing personal life and career.

Need for Further Education (MBA, Certifications)

A career in business administration also comes with the constant demand for further education and skill development. Continuing your education through an MBA or certifications can enhance your career prospects and help you stay competitive in the job market.

However, it will also take up your free time, as you’ll be expected to manage studying and certification processes while working, which can be challenging.

Final Thoughts

With a business major, you’ll have access to a wide range of job opportunities. Love working with people? Consider management or client relations. More of a numbers person? Data analysis or finance might be your sweet spot. The beauty of this degree is that it lets you carve your path based on what actually excites you.

Once you identify the kind of work you enjoy and the skills you want to grow, finding the right jobs for business majors becomes much more achievable. So, step confidently into the industry that suits you and build a career that truly fits your goals.

Jobs for Business Majors FAQ

#1. How to find a job in business administration?

To find a job in business administration, create a strong resume and leverage platforms like LinkedIn and professional associations to build your network. Apply to entry-level roles like administrative assistant, analyst, or coordinator. Internships and career fairs can also open doors to full-time positions in business administration.

#2. What are some fun careers with a business degree?

Fun careers with a business degree include event planning, marketing, sports management, fashion merchandising, and travel consulting. These roles combine business skills with creativity and variety, which allows you to work in dynamic environments that often go beyond the typical office setting.

#3. What’s the median annual wage for business graduates?

The median annual wage for business graduates typically falls between $65,000 and $75,000, depending on the industry, job role, and experience level. High-demand fields like finance, consulting, and tech tend to offer salaries on the higher end of that range.