What is business administration?
Business administration is all about managing every aspect of a company. The professionals handling business administration play a crucial role in decision-making, from daily operations to organizational structure and financial management. Their job involves tracking performance, making sure the company stays true to its vision and mission, and hitting key targets.
Whether they’re new entrepreneurs or stepping into leadership at an existing company, these professionals handle a variety of tasks—planning, organizing, staffing, directing, and budgeting. They often coordinate between departments, managing resources like people, money, materials, technology, and information efficiently. Plus, they need to adapt to changing business environments. In today’s world, they must make critical decisions about keeping a company’s information systems updated and secure, as well as guiding businesses through shifts caused by evolving technology.
Why study business administration?
Strong leadership and management are essential for businesses and organizations to reach their goals. A solid management team ensures resources are used wisely, and that policies, procedures, and strategies keep the organization competitive and profitable. These leaders don’t just hunt for the next big opportunity—they also foster a positive work environment, encouraging teamwork and collaboration among employees.
Studying this field through a full Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) program gives a well-rounded understanding of the principles and practices needed to run a business successfully. Business leaders need technical skills in areas like accounting, finance, data analytics, and IT, but they also need softer skills like communication and employee development. By taking business administration courses or degree programs, you’ll learn how to manage every part of a business effectively.
Business administration course curriculum
Courses in business administration cover a wide range of complementary topics and skills. An online degree program might include subjects like:
- Leadership
- Strategic management and decision-making
- Business ethics
- Accounting
- Finance
- Statistics
- Operations and supply chain management
- Marketing management
- Business law
Full programs may also let students specialize in areas like data analysis or entrepreneurship. But if you’re not interested in a full degree, individual online courses can still provide targeted knowledge in specific subjects.
edX offers different learning paths, including bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, as well as boot camps. Explore these options to find the best fit for you.
Explore business administration jobs
Whether you’re aiming for your first management role or climbing the ladder to an executive position, studying business administration opens doors to various careers. Professionals in this field can pursue roles such as:
- Business manager
- Human resources manager
- Business analyst
- Financial analyst
- Project manager
- Marketing manager
- Operations manager
- Sales manager
- Consultant
- Entrepreneur
- Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
- Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Some roles may require specialized expertise gained through focused learning. Employer expectations vary—some may prefer candidates with master’s degrees, while others accept knowledge from online business administration courses.
Online learning offers a flexible alternative to traditional classroom education. edX makes it easy to explore different courses in business, whether you want to join a product management boot camp, earn an online bachelor’s in business, or enroll in an online MBA program. Find the learning path that works for you.