BBA vs. BS: Business Program Differences

One decision aspiring business students often face is whether to pursue a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business. Many top-level CEOs earn a Bachelor of Business Administration before going on to lead large companies — like Live Nation Entertainment CEO Michael Rapino.

Individuals assessing BBA vs. BS in Business degrees to choose which one to pursue should know that their decision can have implications for their professional goals and career opportunities. One important consideration is whether a person wishes to pursue a broad-based business education or a more focused approach to business studies. Each degree program can offer unique opportunities.

Many students opt for a BBA as a means of keeping multiple career paths open. A Bachelor of Business Administration program can teach individuals the leadership skills they need to succeed in any of a wide range of business fields.

What Is a Bachelor of Business Administration?

A BBA degree is a great option for anyone seeking to learn the fundamentals of running a company or working in a business environment. BBA programs teach the administrative and communication skills that can prove crucial in leadership roles. BBA graduates benefit from having broad skills that can be useful in a wide range of career paths and industries.

While certain positions may require training in finance or accounting, most business-related jobs require the types of skills — leadership, strategic management, communication, business ethics, globalization — that BBA programs cover. Although the business landscape is continuously evolving, tomorrow’s business leaders will always need core business skills.

BBA programs typically offer a blend of business courses and general education courses that cover topics such as microeconomics, English composition, human resource management, and entrepreneurship.

BBA programs often allow students to choose an area of focus known as a concentration. Concentrations allow students to develop skills geared toward a specific business field. Common concentration areas include entrepreneurship, financial analytics, management, and marketing.

A BBA degree program typically requires four years to complete.

Career Paths for BBA Graduates

BBA degree graduates generally enjoy high employability once they enter the workforce. The business skills that BBA programs teach are used across a wide range of business fields. By learning specific business competencies as well as soft skills like communication and leadership, graduates can pursue rewarding careers in roles such as the following:

Financial analyst: A financial analyst evaluates financial data to guide investment decisions and assess company performance. According to Payscale, the median salary for this position was about $67,590 as of September 2024.
Management analyst: A management analyst improves organizational efficiency by analyzing business operations and recommending solutions. The median salary for this position was approximately $74,500 as of August 2024, according to Payscale.
Production manager: A production manager oversees manufacturing processes to ensure products are made efficiently, on time, and within budget. According to Payscale, the median salary for this position was around $80,320 as of August 2024.
Marketing manager: A marketing manager develops and implements strategies to promote products or services, driving customer engagement and sales. According to Payscale, the median salary for this position was approximately $73,000 as of September 2024.
Human resource (HR) manager: A human resource manager oversees employee relations, recruitment, and compliance — ensuring a productive and legally sound workplace. The median salary for this position, according to Payscale, was around $91,680 as of August 2024.

What Is a Bachelor of Science in Business?

A BS in Business program places a greater emphasis on the methodologies and analytical tools used in the business world than a BBA program. This focus on the technical aspects of business can make coursework more rigorous. Students often need a strong background in mathematics. For students who enjoy math, this program may prove more suitable and enjoyable than a BBA.

BS in Business coursework often delves into areas such as finance, accounting, statistics, operations management, and economics. After completing the program, students have the skills to analyze data and solve complex business problems.

A Bachelor of Science in Business often allows students to focus on an area of specialization, such as business analytics, accounting, finance, or supply chain management. Students who complete courses in key business areas can become experts in their specific fields.

A BS in Business degree program typically takes four years to complete.

Career Paths for BS in Business Graduates

With a Bachelor of Science in Business, graduates can work in any of a variety of business-related career fields across many different industries. Common jobs pursued by graduates with a BS in Business include financial analyst, marketing coordinator, HR specialist, and management analyst.

A BS in Business graduate’s career path may be determined in part by their degree’s area of specialization, but those who complete the program will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to take on any of a number of business-related careers.

Which Option Is Right for Me?

Both a BBA and a BS in Business can prepare a student for a rewarding business career, although a BS in Business may be more suited for students interested in working in a field like investment banking or financial analysis. Deciding which degree path to choose ultimately depends on the individual student’s interests, goals, and strengths.

A BS in Business may not be an ideal option for someone who does not have a strong background in math. Future business leaders who want to take a more broad-based approach to their education may benefit from BBA courses that teach skills like leadership, writing, and communications.

Different colleges and universities offer variations of these degree programs, so aspiring students should consider the benefits of each individual degree program. Choosing the right university requires considering numerous factors, including the program’s cost, the school’s student support systems, and the strength of its alumni network. After considering these and other factors, individuals can make the right investment in their future.

Expand Your Business Horizons With a BBA Degree

Earning either a BBA or a BS in Business can lead to a rich and rewarding business career. Although the degree programs have some overlap in curricula, aspiring business students should take time to carefully consider which path to choose.

Now that you have examined BBA vs. BS in Business degrees and have a better understanding of the important differences between the two, you can pursue your college goals with confidence.

Whether you aim to lead, manage, or contribute to a business, earning a degree in business administration can pave the way. NCCU Online’s BBA degree completion program can equip you with the knowledge and skills to advance your career and become a business leader in various industries.

Discover how NCCU Online’s BBA program can empower your career.

Recommended Readings

Industrial Production Manager Salary and Career Path

HR Manager Career Overview

What Does a Marketing Manager Do?

Sources:

Forbes, “Looking Ahead: 5 Trends in Business Education”

Indeed, “Accounting vs. Business Administration: Which Degree Is Best for You?”

National Center for Education Statistics, Undergraduate Degree Fields

Payscale, Average Financial Analyst Salary

Payscale, Average Human Resource (HR) Officer Salary

Payscale, Average Management Analyst Salary