Dean’s Corner

Students are often unsure of their major interest.  The best advice is to follow their passion. If a student focuses their studies in an area they enjoy, they will generally do well, and their success will create opportunities.

Many students do not have a passion they are compelled to pursue and seek more guidance. For such students, I suggest strong consideration be given to a business major.

Why business? One reason is an abundance of job opportunities.  In North Carolina, the Department of Commerce forecasted the number of jobs to be created in various occupations between 2010 and 2020.  As noted in Table 1 below, 5 of the top 10 growth occupations in the state are business related, led by accountants, marketing/market research specialists, finance managers, sales reps for technical products, and human resource specialists. Average starting salaries in these high growth occupations range from $50,000 to $100,000 per year.

In choosing a career path, try to focus on areas in which there is a match between your interests and capabilities and the requirements of the position, not primarily on salaries.  If the fit is there and the motivation to work is present, rewards will follow.

For those interested in long-term earning potential, Table 2 shows that five of the top ten highest earning occupations in North Carolina are business-related, led by CEO’s and managers of business functions. Average salaries for manager occupations requiring a bachelor’s degree are typically in the $95,000 – $100,000 range, and salaries for CEO’s average $165,000.

Top 10 Highest Earning Occupations in North Carolina   

Employers tell us that they are looking for employees who not only know their subject area, but more importantly have strong analytical and communication skills. Employers need people who can solve problems on their own, have an entrepreneurial mindset to identify new opportunities, and can communicate ideas in a clear and compelling manner. Our business courses are designed to help students master these critical capabilities.

In business courses, students are first given tools to analyze situations, and then they are given problems and case studies to practice those techniques. The skills learned can be applied to managing non-profits, governmental organizations, and businesses. For the many students who will start their own business, the business major is well-suited to provide a foundation for future entrepreneurial success.

Employers also tell us that they value individuals with practical experience in addition to academic success. The School of Business and Economics places a high priority on providing students with practical learning opportunities through internships, classes which assist local small businesses, student organizations, and multiple business case competitions.

For students uncertain about their major or career options, we encourage you to consider business. The School of Business and Economics can help open a wide range of attractive opportunities for those willing to work hard to pursue their dreams.

Tables courtesy of North Carolina Department of Commerce