In a nutshell: Business students looking for a big paycheck might want to consider these career paths.
People don’t always get into business to change the world.
Sure, they may end up doing just that. But in the beginning, when earning a college degree and entering the workforce, many are focused on attaining the highest position possible and reaping the financial rewards.
In short, make lots of money. Around $100,000 a year sounds like a good goal.
There’s nothing wrong with that. Money makes the world go ‘round. And few degrees offer a better chance at success while pursuing that goal than a bachelor’s degree in business administration or a master’s degree in business administration (MBA).
The bachelor’s degree opens the doors to the following careers, while an MBA sets you up to earn the top jobs in the profession.
$100,000-a-Year Jobs
The following represent some of the $100,000-a-year jobs you can aim for with a business administration degree.
Keep in mind that salaries vary depending on the exact nature of the job, educational level, specific employer, industry and location. It’s recommended that those who wish to enter any of these fields do their own research to potential salary figures for their situations.
Also, this list isn’t all-inclusive. Other six-figure job opportunities exist. A smart move is to work with career counselors at your school who can assist your research into other jobs that may earn more than $100,000.
Remember that business administration expertise translates into almost every field. Companies within every industry need business administrators. Specializing in one of the fields below can land you a job in everything from technology to healthcare.
Obviously, years of experience and an MBA will make achieving six figures that much easier.
All salary figures and job projection numbers come from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Financial Analysts
Financial analysts focus on rating investment instruments, concentrating on either the buy or sell side. They work for investment companies, banks, insurance companies, mutual funds, large companies and, in some cases, wealthy individuals.
The average salary was $81,760 in May 2016, with the top 10% making more than $165,100.
Financial Examiners
Financial examiners work to make sure borrowers and consumers are treated fairly by lenders. That requires examining the financial condition of banks and other institutions for compliance with laws and regulations.
In May 2016, the median average salary was $79,280 with the top 10% of workers making $148.390.
Supply Chain Managers
Supply chain managers implement innovative technology to support more effective supply chains. The goal is to get supplies to the company and goods to customers in the most efficient and cost-effective way possible.
The median salary in May 2016 was $74,170, with the top 10% making $117,310.
Management Analysts
Management analysts make recommendations to executives to make companies more efficient. They most often work as outside consultants. The goal is to reduce costs, boost revenue and deliver quality products and services.
In May 2016, the average salary was $81,330, with the top 10% making $149,720.
Health Services Managers
Health services managers are the executives who oversee medical operations. Employers can include hospitals, nursing homes, community health services or a chain of clinics.
The average salary in May 2016 was $96,540, with the top 10% making $172,240.
Sales Managers
Sales managers oversee an organization’s sales operations, which can include managing a whole department or individual sales teams. As part of the job, they typically manage the hiring or sales staff and their training, as well as establishing sales goals and developing the overall sales strategy.
In May 2016, the median salary was $117,960, with the top 10% making $208,000.
