About 364,000 U.S. students got their bachelor's degree in business in the academic year 2014/2015. Whether you're looking to expand your knowledge or planning to start your own company, it's worth continuing your education. Business studies can give you a competitive advantage, hone your leadership skills and increase your chances of success. Think of it as an investment in yourself.

The Role of Business

In today’s interconnected society, it's important to have a good understanding of business and why it matters. Every industry relies on business principles to survive and thrive. Times have changed, but the primary role of business has remained the same: to provide people with the goods and services they need and want.

Organizations do a lot more than just sell products. They also improve the living standards of the local community, adapt to the ever-changing customer needs and participate in initiatives that benefit society. Without business activities, there wouldn't be jobs that allow people to earn a living, advance their careers and grow as individuals. Business has a major impact on the external environment as well as on the living standards and quality of life.

Whether you're passionate about creating websites, playing sports or working with numbers, there's a business side to it, and it doesn't necessarily involve money. Let's say you enjoy writing. As a writer, you want people to read your work. Perhaps your goal is to create controversy, share your opinions or give readers a new perspective on the world around them. No matter your goals, you need business skills to promote your work, gain exposure and convey your message to the target audience.

Why Study Business?

You don't have to be an entrepreneur to study business. Anyone can benefit from learning more about this field. If you're an artist, business studies can teach you the skills needed to sell your work and make a name for yourself. An accountant who takes business courses will gain a competitive edge in the job market and stay on top of the latest laws and regulations.

Additionally, some of the best-paying jobs available today require a degree in business. Whether you want to work in market research, management, public relations, banking or advertising, you need a thorough understanding of the business world. The skills you'll learn can be utilized on any scale, from running a company to outsourcing work and leading a small team. By the time you complete your studies, you'll know how to draft and deliver a winning pitch, write a compelling report and effectively manage your money.

A business degree can help you develop various skills that you can bring to any job. You'll be able to better manage your time, solve complex problems, make quick decisions and set smart goals. Your analytical abilities will improve too. If you're a business owner, consider getting a degree in business management, marketing or finance to set yourself up for future success.

Types of Business Degrees

A growing number of public and private institutions are offering courses in business. Some programs can be completed online, which is ideal for busy professionals. Depending on your goals, you can enroll in undergraduate, graduate or postgraduate programs or sign up for specialized courses that focus on marketing, leadership, human resources or e-commerce. Popular business majors include:

• Business administration.
  
• Business management.
• International business.
• Economics.
• Finance.
• Human resources.
• Marketing.
• Supply-chain management.
• Project management.
• Public relations.

A public relations degree program, for example, will teach you how to develop marketing campaigns, communicate more effectively and build lasting relationships with your prospects. If you're passionate about technology, consider a business degree in e-commerce. You will learn about emerging information technologies, mobile web design, statistical methods, server applications and more.

Another popular choice is international business administration. This degree program helps students develop key management skills, such as problem solving, communication, strategic thinking and leadership. You will also gain a better understanding of global and local business challenges, project management requirements, supply chains and marketing practices. Remember that it's never too late to continue your education. Unlock your inner entrepreneur and open the door to new career opportunities.