A career in business management offers opportunities in leadership, finance and marketing, along with pathways to entrepreneurship. But what degree is the right choice? The answer depends on your goals, how quickly you want to start working and how much education you plan to pursue.
At Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Business Management provides a flexible, affordable way to build essential skills while laying the groundwork for further education. If you’re wondering what degree you need for business management, this article will help you explore your options.
Before choosing a path, consider how each degree option aligns with your career goals and timeline. Some degrees provide a faster entry into the workforce, while others offer deeper specialization, advancement opportunities and even higher salaries.
What Degrees Prepare You for Business Management?
Whether you're looking for a fast-track to employment or planning for long-term career growth, these degree options each provide unique benefits:
While a graduate degree isn’t required for many business careers, it can significantly expand your career opportunities and earning potential.
Why Start with an Associate Degree?
If you're considering a business career, an associate degree in business management is a smart first step. Here’s why:
- Enter the workforce sooner: Completing an associate degree takes about two years, allowing you to start working earlier than a four-year program. Many NOVA graduates secure roles in marketing, finance, administration or sales.
- Affordable education: Compared to many four-year universities, NOVA offers lower tuition, making it an excellent option if you want a quality education without a large financial burden.
- Flexible learning options: NOVA provides courses both in-person and online, making it easier to balance school, work and other commitments.
- Seamless transfer to a four-year college: If you plan to earn a bachelor’s degree, NOVA’s associate in business management degree gives you a strong foundation and allows you to easily transfer credits to our partner schools, saving you time and money.
What Skills Will You Gain with an Associate in Business Management?
Beyond earning a credential, a business management degree helps you develop valuable, transferable skills that employers seek. With an associate degree in business management, you’ll build competencies in:
- Leadership and communication: Learn how to manage teams, resolve conflicts and communicate effectively in business settings.
- Financial literacy: Gain an understanding of budgeting, financial analysis and business accounting principles.
- Marketing and sales: Explore strategies for branding, advertising and consumer behavior.
- Operations and project management: Develop skills in business operations, logistics and workflow efficiency.
- Problem-solving and critical thinking: Learn to analyze business challenges and develop strategic solutions.
These skills prepare you for a range of career paths and provide a solid foundation for future education and professional growth.
What Can You Do After Earning an Associate Degree in Business Management?
An associate in business management can open multiple pathways beyond immediate employment. After completing your degree, you can:
- Pursue a bachelor's degree: Many NOVA graduates choose to transfer their credits to a four-year university, continuing their education in business administration, finance, marketing or a related field.
- Earn industry certifications: Certifications like Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) or SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) in human resources can enhance your job prospects.
- Start your own business: If entrepreneurship is your goal, an associate degree provides essential business knowledge to help you launch and manage a startup.
- Advance within your company: Many professionals use their associate degree as a foundation for moving up within their current workplace.
What Jobs Can You Get with a NOVA AAS in Business Management?
According to Lightcast, a labor market analytics firm, there are 2,486 job openings in the NOVA service area for business management professionals, with entry-level salaries ranging from $58,000 to $80,000.
While some roles may require additional experience or education, an associate degree can serve as a valuable step toward landing the following roles with median salaries provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Administrative services manager: Oversee daily business operations and support organizational efficiency. Median salary: $104,600.
- Project management specialist: Coordinate projects, ensure deadlines are met and improve business processes. Median salary: $98,580.
- Marketing specialist: Assist with marketing campaigns, branding and market research. Median salary: $63,920.
- Sales manager: Lead sales teams, set goals and drive revenue growth. Median salary: $127,490.
- Human resources manager: Manage recruitment, employee relations and workforce development. Median salary: $130,000.
- Financial analyst: Help businesses with budgeting, forecasting and financial planning. Median salary: $95,570.
What Other Business Careers Are in High Demand?
The business world is constantly evolving, with certain fields growing faster than others. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, industries experiencing high demand for business professionals include:
- Healthcare administration: Business managers play a critical role in the growing healthcare sector, ensuring efficient operations in hospitals and medical facilities.
- Technology and e-commerce: Companies increasingly rely on business professionals to manage digital transformation, online sales and tech-driven initiatives.
- Financial services: Banking, investment and financial consulting firms continue to seek professionals with business acumen.
- Entrepreneurship and small business management: Many business graduates use their skills to launch and manage their own businesses.
With a degree in business management, you can explore opportunities in these expanding industries and position yourself for long-term career growth.
How NOVA’s Associate in Business Management Degree Helps You Succeed
By earning your AAS in Business Management at NOVA, you’ll benefit from:
- Expert faculty with real-world industry experience.
- Career services, including job placement support.
- Affordable tuition and financial aid options.
- Transfer opportunities to four-year programs.
Whether you’re looking to enter the workforce or continue your education, NOVA’s associate in business management degree provides the skills and knowledge to build a successful career.
Take the Next Step in Your Business Journey
What degree do you need for business management? Now that you have the answer to that question, it’s time to take the next step. Explore NOVA’s associate degree in business management today — or start your application today!