Best Business Degrees in 2025 for High-Paying Careers

A business degree can open doors to high-paying jobs, leadership roles, and even entrepreneurship. But with so many specializations to choose from, how do you know which one will give you the best return on investment?

Some business majors lead to six-figure salaries, while others offer more flexibility and career growth. Whether you’re interested in finance, marketing, management, or entrepreneurship, choosing the right degree can set you up for long-term success.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best business degrees in 2025, looking at earning potential, job prospects, and career opportunities so you can make an informed decision. Let’s dive in!

What is a Business Degree?

A business degree isn’t just one-size-fits-all. It covers a broad range of subjects, from finance and marketing to management and entrepreneurship. The right specialization depends on your career goals, skills, and interests.

Business degrees are offered at different levels:

• Associate’s Degree: A two-year program that prepares you for entry-level roles or further study.
• Bachelor’s Degree: A four-year program that provides a strong foundation in business principles and qualifies you for a wide range of jobs.
• Master’s Degree (MBA): A graduate program that can boost your career into management, executive, or specialized roles.
• Doctorate (PhD or DBA): Ideal for those interested in research, academia, or top-tier consulting roles.

Regardless of your chosen specialization, a business degree equips you with critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills—all of which are in high demand across industries.

For those looking for a flexible and cost-effective way to earn a business degree, University of the People offers accredited, tuition-free, online business programs, including accelerated options to help you complete your degree faster.

Source: Pexels

Best Business Degrees for High-Paying Careers

Choosing the right major can significantly impact job prospects and salary potential. Below are some of the highest-paying business degrees:

Accounting

A degree in accounting prepares you for careers in financial reporting, tax planning, and auditing. Accountants ensure businesses comply with financial regulations and help organizations optimize their financial strategies. Additional certifications and postgraduate education may be required if you plan to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

• Median Salary: $79,880 per year
• Common Careers: Auditor, Tax Consultant, Forensic Accountant, Corporate Accountant
• Growth Outlook: Expected to grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033

Business Administration and Management

A business administration degree provides broad knowledge of business operations, covering leadership, organizational behavior, and strategic planning. This degree is ideal for those who want to pursue managerial roles in various industries.

• Median Salary: $104,900 per year
• Common Careers: Operations Manager, General Manager, Business Consultant, Corporate Strategist
• Growth Outlook: 6% increase in jobs by 2023 – 2033

Finance

Finance majors study investment strategies, risk management, and financial markets. Graduates often work in banking, wealth management, and corporate finance, where they analyze data to make strategic financial decisions.

• Median Salary: $99,890 per year
• Common Careers: Financial Analyst, Investment Banker, Risk Manager, Wealth Advisor
• Growth Outlook: 9% job growth projected from 2023 to 2033

Marketing

Marketing professionals play a key role in understanding consumer behavior, brand positioning, and digital advertising. With businesses investing heavily in digital marketing, graduates in this field enjoy strong demand.

• Median Salary: $156,580 per year
• Common Careers: Marketing Manager, Digital Marketing Analyst, Brand Strategist, Market Research Analyst
• Growth Outlook: 8% job growth expected through 2023 – 2033

Entrepreneurship

A degree in entrepreneurship equips students with skills to launch and manage businesses. While salaries vary, successful entrepreneurs have the potential to earn significantly based on business success.

• Median Salary: $103,840 per year (varies based on business success)
• Common Careers: Startup Founder, Business Owner, Venture Capitalist, Business Development Manager
• Growth Outlook: Self-employment continues to rise as more individuals pursue entrepreneurship

Supply Chain Management

Supply chain management focuses on logistics, procurement, and operational efficiency. Professionals in this field help businesses streamline production and distribution to reduce costs and increase profitability.

• Median Salary: $79,400 per year
• Common Careers: Supply Chain Analyst, Logistics Manager, Procurement Manager, Operations Director
• Growth Outlook: 19% job growth projected through 2023 – 2033

Economics

Economics majors study market trends, pricing strategies, and financial policies. This degree prepares graduates for roles in data analysis, research, and policy advising.

• Median Salary: $115,730 per year
• Common Careers: Economist, Policy Analyst, Market Researcher, Financial Consultant
• Growth Outlook: 5% job growth through 2023 – 2033

Management Information Systems (MIS)

MIS blends business strategy with technology, preparing students for careers in data analysis, cybersecurity, and IT management. This degree is ideal for those interested in technology-driven business solutions.

• Median Salary: $169,519 per year
• Common Careers: IT Manager, Systems Analyst, Cybersecurity Consultant, Database Administrator

Growth Outlook: 17% job growth by 2033

Source: Unsplash

Choosing the Best Business Degree Online

With so many business degrees to choose from, how do you decide which one is right for you? The best business degree depends on your interests, skills, and long-term career goals. If you’re analytical and enjoy working with numbers, a degree in finance or accounting might be a great fit. If you’re drawn to leadership and problem-solving, management or business administration could be ideal.

It’s also worth considering the flexibility of an online business degree, especially if you need to balance education with work or other commitments. UoPeople offers tuition-free, accredited business degrees that provide a strong foundation in management, finance, and entrepreneurship, making it an accessible option for students worldwide.

No matter which path you take, a business degree can open doors to high-paying jobs and leadership roles across industries. The key is to align your education with your passions and career aspirations.

Source: Pexels

The Bottom Line: Is a Business Degree Worth It?

A business degree remains one of the most versatile and profitable educational paths. Whether you want to climb the corporate ladder, start your own business, or specialize in a high-paying field, a business degree provides the foundation you need.

With the flexibility of online business programs, there are more opportunities than ever to gain an education that fits your lifestyle. Plus, careers in business consistently offer competitive salaries and long-term job stability. The key is to choose a specialization that aligns with your interests and career goals.

If you’re ready to take the next step, explore your options and start building a future in business today.

FAQs

What is the best business degree for high-paying jobs?

The highest-paying business degrees include finance, accounting, economics, and management information systems. These fields often lead to lucrative careers in investment banking, financial management, and corporate leadership roles.

Do I need a business degree to start my own business?

No, but a business degree provides essential skills in finance, marketing, and management, which can increase your chances of success. Many entrepreneurs find that formal education helps them make informed business decisions and scale their ventures effectively.

How long does it take to earn a business degree?

A bachelor’s degree in business typically takes four years to complete, while an MBA takes an additional one to two years. Associate degrees in business can be completed in two years, and online programs may offer flexible timelines.

Are online business degrees respected by employers?

Yes, as long as the degree comes from an accredited institution. Employers value skills, experience, and credentials over the format of education. Many top universities now offer online business programs that hold the same credibility as traditional degrees.