BES Business Majors Guide

What is it?

• Analysis of revenue and expenses to ensure effective use of capital
• Advise businesses about project costs, make capital investments, and structure deals to foster company growth

Skills needed

• Financial quantitative skills, plan/administer budgets, strong presentation and writing skills, critical thinking capabilities, familiar with technology (data processing tools)
• MATH140, 141, and 240 are recommended (not required)

Careers

• Financial advisor, investment analysis and portfolio management, investment banking, risk management, budget analyst, international finance, loan administrator, credit analyst
• 2010 average starting salary - $54,548

What is it?

• Implementation and support of computer technology within a business organization
• Major focuses: system design and implementation, analytical skills, and managerial and organizational knowledge

Skills needed

• Technical proficiency and diversity, clear/concise communication, flexibility, team collaboration skills, general business knowledge

Careers

• IS associate/specialist, systems analyst and design, business analyst, consultant
• 2010 average starting salary - $58,045

What is it?

• Similar to General Business but with international focus
• Work with international partners, offices overseas, sell to or serve an international population

Skills needed

• Multiple language skills, clear and flexible communication skills, exceptional professionalism Although not required for the major, foreign language courses/skills are strongly encouraged

Careers

• Government services, foreign trade, consulting, international development
• 2010 average starting salary - $48,731

What is it?

• Broad course of study in business and management
• Appropriate for those who plan to enter small-business management or entrepreneurship where general knowledge of various fields of study is preferred to a more specialized concentration

Skills needed

• Ability to learn quickly, written/spoken communication skills, self-starter, respond well to change, research capabilities, general quantitative skills, multi-tasking capabilities

Careers

• General manager, retail manager, entrepreneur, human resources, customer service representative
• 2010 average starting salary - $48,223

What is it?

• Getting goods and services from producers to consumers
• Ensure that quality goods and services are provided at fair prices and in a way that benefits the community and society

Skills needed

• Creative problem solving, data analysis, technical writing ability, public speaking/presentation skills, internet research capabilities

Careers

• Sales, advertising, public relations, promotion, brand/product management, market research
• 2010 average starting salary - $47,271

What is it?

• Design and management of an organization’s systems and processes focusing on the creation and delivery of products and services
• Involved in functions such as capacity planning, inventory management, logistics management, production planning and control, resource allocation, and total quality management

Skills needed

• Understanding of math/stats, computer technology, ability to analyze and interpret data, clear and effective communication skills, broad understanding of business, leadership

Careers

• Consulting, manufacturing, project management, applied statistical analyst, business development, retail, service organizations
• 2010 average starting salary - $47,528

What is it?

• Managing the connecting of raw materials with manufacturing and the end consumer in the right condition and quantity as well as at the right time, place, and cost
• Coordinate logistics, transportation, warehouse location and operation, inventory management, packaging, and other functions in a cost effective manner

Skills needed

• Attention to detail, problem-solving capabilities, technology proficient, strong/clear communicator

Careers

• Supply chain/logistics manager, retail, routing supervisor, materials manager/planner, warehouse management, loss prevention analyst
• 2010 average starting salary - $55,192