Major: Business, General

Handheld computers and cell phones make business dealings easier and faster. But there's a downside. Because these devices are easily lost, there's a risk that private information will fall into the wrong hands. Executives using cell phones in airports or other public places may forget to avoid discussing confidential topics. To make matters worse, competitors could also use technology to listen in.

How can we ensure that the cons of new technology don’t outweigh the pros? If you major in business, you’ll learn a wide range of business skills and study the issues affecting today's business climate.

Business majors study the buying, selling, and producing of goods, as well as business organization and accounting. They learn how to use the basic principles and techniques of business in a variety of workplaces.

Did You Know?

Many business programs take into account the needs of working students. For example, they often offer early morning, evening, and weekend classes.

Are You Ready To...?

• Practice your speaking skills with Toastmasters
• Join a business honorary society such as Beta Gamma Sigma
• Develop your oral and written communication skills
• Interact professionally with businesspeople who visit your classes
• Work with numbers
• Use computers

It Helps To Be...

Interested in studying topics ranging from accounting to ethics to computers. Good speaking, writing, time management, and organization skills will smooth your path to success.

College Checklist

• If the program awards the bachelor’s degree, is it accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business?
• Does the program focus more on preparing students for the workplace or for further education?
• Are the professors active in the business world?
• Does the program include hands-on learning opportunities such as internships or co-ops?
• What are recent grads doing now?
• Will the program help you find work after graduation?
• Can you talk to recent graduates?

Did You Know?

Social psychologists have found that we form lasting impressions of others in only thirty seconds. That means you really do need to dress for success in the work world.

Course Spotlight

In a class on business communications, you’ll learn how to choose the right communication tool — whether e-mail, phone call, fax, or letter — for any situation. You’ll also learn how to tailor your message according to your purpose, using different words to persuade than to instruct, for example. 

And you’ll get a lot of practice writing business letters and memos, making oral presentations, and preparing charts and other visual aids. You might even create a resume, which will give you a head start in your job search once you graduate.