Business Administration Major
Business Administration is a broad study of the core functions of running a business. It is a major within Business & Management.
Business Administration is a broad field that examines how organizations operate and how decisions are made within them. The major focuses on core business functions—including accounting, finance, marketing, and management—and explores how these areas work together. Students learn to analyze problems like how a company should allocate resources, price products, manage employees, understand customers, and measure financial health. The major develops practical skills in data analysis, communication, planning, and decision-making that apply across different types of organizations.
Students drawn to this major typically have interests in how organizations work, enjoy problem-solving with information and numbers, or want flexibility in their career direction. The curriculum usually begins with foundational courses covering basic business principles, economics, and accounting, then progresses to more specialized and applied courses where students explore particular business functions in depth. Many programs emphasize case studies and real-world scenarios, encouraging students to apply concepts to actual business challenges. This structure allows students to build a general business foundation while gradually developing expertise in areas that match their specific interests.
Typical coursework
Course requirements vary by school, but a Business Administration program commonly includes topics such as:
- Accounting
- Finance
- Marketing
- Management
- Business statistics
- Economics
Most programs also include general-education requirements and, in many fields, a capstone project, internship, or research experience.
Degree levels
Business Administration is commonly offered at these levels:
- Associate
- Bachelor's
- Master's
Availability differs by institution, and program names can vary (for example, a Bachelor of Arts versus a Bachelor of Science track).
Common career directions
Graduates with a Business Administration background pursue a range of paths. Some roles related to this field of study include:
- Business analyst
- Operations associate
- Account manager
- Office manager
Many careers require additional steps beyond the major — such as a graduate degree, a license, or a certification — and many graduates work in fields unrelated to their major. What you study is one factor among many in where your career goes.
General career information is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Career paths vary widely by person, school, and region; this is not a list of guaranteed jobs or earnings.
Find degree programs in Business Administration
Want to compare accredited schools that offer a Business Administration major? Tell us a little about what you're looking for and we'll help you find matching degree programs. It's free, and there's no obligation.
Find degree programs →Frequently asked questions
What is a Business Administration major?
Business Administration is a broad study of the core functions of running a business. It is part of business & management, and combines foundational coursework with more focused study as you advance.
What courses do Business Administration majors take?
Coursework varies by school, but commonly includes topics such as accounting, finance, marketing, management, and others, plus general-education requirements.
What can you do with a Business Administration major?
Graduates pursue a range of paths, including roles such as business analyst, operations associate, account manager. Many roles require additional steps such as a graduate degree, license, or certification. This is general information, not a guarantee of any job or salary.
What degree levels is Business Administration offered at?
It is commonly offered at the associate, bachelor's, master's level, though availability varies by institution.