A business degree can help students develop the skills and knowledge often required to understand the complexities of running and managing a business. A business administration or business management degree also provides students with a strong understanding of organizational principles that can be applied in the workplace.

We offer flexibility and convenience to our students, which is especially beneficial for working professionals. Our courses are taught by experienced faculty who are dedicated to educating the next generation of leaders. American Public University System is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. 

Online college programs in business administration and business management provide students with the flexibility needed to pursue their educational goals while still managing significant commitments outside of school. Attending an online university allows students to attend class anytime, anywhere, and on their own schedule. 

American Public University delivers online courses that are based on an asynchronous schedule, so that students can log on to complete scheduled assignments any time, day or night. There is no need to wake up early to attend a class; students are able to learn on their own time, as their schedule allows. Attending an online university makes it much easier for students who work full time or have other obligations that may prevent them from attending a traditional brick-and-mortar university.

*Some APU programs require in-person activity, including doctoral residencies, internships, practicums, proctored comprehensive exams, or class projects with in-person assignments. View your program of interest for specific requirements.

An essential part of ensuring the quality and rigor of academic programs and degrees offered by universities is accreditation through a reputable organization such as the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP®). (ACBSP® is a registered trademark of the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.)

The ACBSP is an independent, specialized accrediting agency whose mission is to promote continuous improvement and recognize teaching excellence in business education worldwide. It has been dedicated to the quality assurance of business education since 1988 and is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

The ACBSP seeks to ensure quality business education by focusing on the development of learning outcomes, which are the knowledge and skills that students develop in their programs. They also have a set of standards that define the quality of teaching, assessment, curriculum, and student services within a program. Additionally, the ACBSP provides resources to faculty and institutions.

Whether you pursue a business management degree or a business administration degree, both degrees can help prepare you for professional responsibilities in many different fields and industries. A business degree offers knowledge and skills often required in a variety of business fields. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that business and financial occupations often include professions such as:

• Finance: budget analysts, financial analysts, financial examiners, personal financial advisors 
  
• Accounting: accountants and auditors, loan officers, tax examiners, revenue agents 
  
• Marketing: market research analysts
  
• Operations management: logisticians, project management specialists 
  
• Human resource management: compensation and benefits specialists, job analysis specialists, human resources specialists, labor relations specialists, training and development specialists 
  
• Entrepreneurship: management analysts, budget analysts, cost estimators
  
• Hospitality management: meeting, convention and event planners
  
• Retail management: purchasing managers, buyers, purchasing agents 

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, [Business and Financial Occupations, accessed January 2023] https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/home.htm

BLS salary data represents national, averaged earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience. This data does not represent starting salaries. Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Earning your degree in business administration or business management is just one possible step. Whether you're aiming to pursue a business administration or business management path, here is some advice to help prepare you for what comes after completing your business programs:

• Optimize your resume: Add recent experience and remove older, non-relevant experience. Many organizations screen resumes using applicant tracking systems, so make sure your resume is tailored to beat artificial intelligence (AI) screening tools. 
  
• Clean up your social media profiles: Most employers review your social media pages. Review your privacy settings and update your picture to make a good first impression. Consider removing outdated posts.
  
• Strengthen your LinkedIn profile: Your LinkedIn profile is a digital representation of your experience, qualifications, and accomplishments. It can be a useful addition to compliment your resume. Make sure everything is up to date and that you have a recent and professional photo. 
  
• Browse the internet for jobs: Even before you're ready to apply for jobs, it's a good idea to search for potential careers. This search can help you to find keywords to include in your resume and to pinpoint which organizations are desirable to you.