What Do You Learn in Business Administration?

Editor’s Note: This post was updated on October 2, 2019.

Are you considering a career in business? If your answer is “yes,” then you may find yourself researching Business Administration programs. But what exactly is Business Administration, and what will you learn in this program?

We’ve put together an overview of what you can expect to learn in a Business Administration program. Read on to discover the skills you can learn while studying Business Administration, and what careers those skills can lead to.

Coursework for SJVC’s Business Administration program typically consists of a mix of the following classes:

• Accounting Cycle Concepts
• Business Math Applications
• Business Communication
• Principles of Management
• Principles of Human Resources
• Principles of Marketing
• Customer Service
• Spreadsheet Management
• Business Externship
• Computer Literacy and Applications for the Professional
• Graduate Readiness Seminar

What business topics and skills will I learn?

Students in a Business Administration program often will take general education courses and also learn the fundamentals of business, including:

ACCT 100 – Accounting Cycle Concepts

This course introduces the fundamental principles and terminology of accounting. Subjects covered include Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and the steps of the accounting cycle. (3.0 credits)

BUSN 100 – Business Math Applications

This course focuses on using mathematics to solve business problems. Activities emphasize performing calculations associated with interest, retail, purchasing, credit and other general business applications. (3.0 credits)

BUSN 120 – Business Communication

This course focuses on effective writing techniques utilized in business to produce various communications and documents, including business letters, minutes and reports, dictation and note taking. Proper grammar, mechanics, number usage, vocabulary, and proofreading are emphasized, as well as style, appearance, tone, and reader appeal. Students will develop time management, organization, presentation and communication skills. (3.0 credits)

BUSN 130 – Principles of Management

This course provides students an introduction into the theory and application of management concepts. Topics include leadership, planning and organization, social responsibility, delegation, leadership styles, decision making, time and stress management and employee relations. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, problem solving, and decision making. (3.0 credits)

BUSN 140 – Principles of Human Resources

This course provides an overview of the administration of human resources in business, emphasizing legal and regulatory requirements and ethical obligations. Topics include recruitment and hiring, training and evaluation, compensation and benefits, and labor relations. (3.0 credits)

BUSN 160 – Principles of Marketing

This course provides a foundational overview of marketing activities, practices, and processes. Additional topics include business ethics, market segmentation, product, distribution, pricing decisions, consumer products, advertising, and consumer behavior. (2.0 credits)

BUSN 190 – Customer Service

This course provides students with an introduction to customer service. Topics include customer perceptions, customer service strategy, verbal and non-verbal communication, and problem solving. (2.0 credits)

BUSN 201 – Spreadsheet Management

This course builds fundamental skills in Microsoft Excel® for use as a business tool. Students will create and manage worksheets, apply formulas and functions, and create data visualizations. (3.0 credits)

BUSN 251 – Business Externship

Students will utilize their skills and knowledge by working in a local business under direct supervision of the professional manager. Students are required to turn in completed hours and evaluations, and the grade earned in this course is Pass/Fail. Passing this course is a graduation requirement. (3.0 credits)

COMP 101 – Computer Literacy and Applications for the Professional

This course provides an introduction to office productivity software, such as word processing, spreadsheet, presentations, and email. Topics include basic computer use, information literacy, and working with productivity applications in a professional setting. (3.0 credits)

GRS 100 – Graduate Readiness Seminar

Students will prepare for the job search process in this seminar. Through work with the Career Services Department, they will develop resumes, interview techniques, and networking skills needed for workplace success. The grade in this course is Pass/Fail and is based upon creation of a career portfolio, mock interviewing skills, and other professional development activities. Passing this course is a graduation requirement. (2.0 credits)

What careers can these business skills lead to?

Graduates of a business administration program often qualify for careers as:

• Administrative Assistants: Secretaries and administrative assistants handle everyday clerical and administrative duties, including organizing files, prepping documents, scheduling appointments, and supporting other staff. This position is needed in nearly every industry! Administrative assistants work in schools, hospitals as well as government, legal and medical offices, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
• Customer Service Representatives: Customer service reps mainly work with customers by processing orders, handling complaints, and pitching a company’s products and services to potential and return customers.
• Information and Record Clerks: Information clerks usually work full-time and collect data, maintain records and provide information to customers, according to the BLS.

How much can I expect to earn after graduating from a Business Administration program?

With a certificate in business administration, your salary will vary depending on the type of career you pursue. Data from the Bureau of Labour Statistics offers median annual wages for various careers in the business administration field, including:

How to Enroll in a Business Administration Program

If it sounds like Business Administration is the right program for you, or if you would like to learn more about the career opportunities that are available after you graduate from a Business Administration program, contact San Joaquin Valley College. SJVC’s Business Administration program provides a framework of business knowledge and skills that can help you adapt to any company’s operation. You can graduate in as little as eight months with your Certificate of Completion, or in as few as 15 months with your Associate of Science Degree. Request information or call toll-free 866-544-7898 to learn more.