12 Highest Paying Business Degrees: Salary Expectations & Career Paths

Picking the right path for your education is a big deal. It’s one of the most important choices that can shape your career and how much money you’ll make in the future. If you’ve got dreams of having a successful job and feeling financially secure, it all starts with choosing the right field of study.

Studies show that the degree you choose can have a huge impact on how much you earn. For example, business analytics grads make about $66,000 early in their careers and can earn up to $99,000 later on. This shows how choosing a degree in a strong field can really pay off.

Business majors are a great option for anyone looking for a solid career and a good income. Whether it’s finance, marketing, or management, these majors open the door to a lot of opportunities. But is a business degree really worth it? And if it is, which major should you pick to get the most out of it?

Are Business Majors a Good Choice for Your Career?

Do business majors make good money? The short answer is yes, many of them do. Degrees like finance, marketing, and business analytics can lead to solid starting salaries and even higher pay as you gain experience. For example, a finance graduate might start earning around $60,000 a year and see that number grow to six figures over time. Plus, business majors are in industries that are always hiring, like banking, technology, and consulting.

But are they worth it? That depends on what you’re looking for. If your goal is to earn well and have a flexible, growing career, then business majors are definitely worth considering. They can provide a strong return on investment (ROI), giving you the chance to build a financially stable future.

The key is to pick the right major, one that not only offers good money but also suits your personal interests and skills. When you choose a degree that matches both your goals and your talents, you’re more likely to enjoy your work and succeed in the long run.

12 Business Majors That Make the Most Money

1. Finance

Finance graduates often work in roles like financial analysts, investment bankers, or personal financial advisors. Their day-to-day tasks include analyzing market trends, creating financial reports, and helping clients or businesses make smart investment decisions. They work in banks, financial firms, or even large corporations. If you enjoy problem-solving and keeping track of money, this could be the path for you. Starting pay averages $60,000, but senior positions at firms often exceed $120,000.

2. Accounting

With an accounting degree, you’ll likely start as a staff accountant or auditor. Tasks often involve preparing financial statements, ensuring budgets are on track, and examining financial records for accuracy. Accountants are crucial in every industry—from small businesses to global brands. Many accountants advance to become controllers or CFOs. Starting pay ranges from $55,000 to $65,000, with experienced CPAs earning well over $120,000.

3. Economics

Economics majors can work in roles like data analysts, policy advisors, or market researchers. They spend their time evaluating data, forecasting economic trends, and solving business or government problems. They find jobs in think tanks, corporations, consulting firms, and governmental organizations. Beginners earn about $60,000, but senior economists or consultants can earn $100,000 or more.

4. Business Analytics

Business analytics jobs often include roles like data analysts, business consultants, or project managers. Daily tasks involve analyzing company data to boost efficiency and profits. Many analysts work in finance, healthcare, or tech companies—basically, any organization that wants to use data to make better decisions. Starting salaries hover around $65,000, and seasoned analysts can earn over $115,000. If you thrive on solving puzzles through numbers, this field is perfect.

5. Information Systems Management

Graduates in this field take on roles such as IT managers, systems analysts, or network administrators. Their focus is on integrating technology solutions to optimize business processes. They create systems that improve work efficiency and solve tech issues within companies. You’ll often work for tech firms, government agencies, or large corporations. Starting salaries range from $60,000 to $70,000, and experienced IT managers can earn over $120,000.

6. Marketing

A marketing degree prepares you for roles like brand managers, digital marketing specialists, or content creators. Your tasks might include designing marketing strategies, analyzing customer behavior, and handling advertising campaigns. Marketing experts are needed across industries such as retail, entertainment, and tech. Entry salaries range from $50,000 to $60,000, with senior marketing leaders making over $100,000.

7. Management Consulting

Management consultants work on projects that help businesses run better. They tackle things like cutting costs, organizing operations, or entering new markets. You’ll travel often, meet different teams, and solve challenging problems. Consultants work with consulting firms or independently with various organizations. Entry-level roles pay around $70,000–$80,000, while experienced consultants and partners can exceed $150,000 a year.

8. Entrepreneurship

If you major in entrepreneurship, you’re likely dreaming of starting your own business. Entrepreneurs are involved in everything from creating a business plan and hiring staff to marketing products and finding investors. Freelance work and start-ups are common paths, though you’ll also find jobs as innovation managers or venture capitalists. Early earnings can average $50,000, but successful entrepreneurs can earn millions depending on their ventures.

9. International Business

International business grads often work as global marketing managers, import/export specialists, or supply chain analysts. Their main focus is managing operations across borders, which might involve business trips, negotiations, or understanding cultural differences. Jobs are available with multinational corporations, trading companies, and consulting firms. Starting salaries range from $55,000 to $65,000, with experienced professionals earning well over $100,000.

10. Human Resource Management (HRM)

If you study HR, you’ll likely find yourself in roles like HR generalist, recruiter, or training and development manager. Common tasks include hiring new employees, creating policies, and boosting workplace morale. HR jobs exist in every industry, from tech to non-profits. Entry-level roles pay $50,000 to $60,000, and higher-level positions like HR directors can earn over $100,000 a year.

11. Supply Chain Management

This major leads to jobs like logistics manager, operations analyst, or procurement specialist. Responsibilities include managing the flow of goods and materials, finding suppliers, and streamlining delivery systems. You’ll work in industries like retail, manufacturing, or transportation. Starting pay averages $60,000, and senior management roles in this field can exceed $130,000 per year.

12. Real Estate

With a real estate degree, you might work as a real estate agent, property manager, or appraiser. Your job could involve selling homes, managing rental properties, or analyzing market values. Real estate professionals often work independently or join real estate firms and developers. Starting pay is around $50,000 to $60,000, but top sellers and developers often earn significantly more due to commissions or successful investments.

How to Get Ready to Pick a Business Major

Choosing the right business major starts with knowing yourself. Think about what you enjoy and where your strengths lie—whether it’s crunching numbers, solving problems, or leading a team. Once you have an idea, explore the career paths tied to different majors. Look at what jobs are available, what they involve, and how much they pay. Talking to people already working in those fields can also give you valuable insights and help you figure out if it’s the right fit.

Take the time to gain hands-on experience through internships or part-time jobs. These opportunities not only help you build useful skills but also show you what kind of work excites you. At the same time, stay updated on industry trends to understand which majors have strong opportunities. Remember, your major is just the starting point of your career—it’s okay to not have everything figured out yet. With research and some trial and error, you’ll find the path that’s best for you!