A Bachelor’s in Business management is often considered a versatile degree that can lead to a variety of career paths.
However, some argue that a business program may be too general and lacks specialisation, making it difficult for graduates to stand out in a competitive job market.
Pros of a Bachelor’s degree in business
- Versatility in career paths: Business majors provide graduates with the ability to work in a variety of industries, including finance, marketing, human resources, and more.
- A broad range of skills and knowledge: A Business degree program covers a variety of subjects, such as accounting, economics, finance, and management, which provides a broad understanding of the business world.
- Exposure to multiple business fields: Many undergraduate business degree programs provide exposure to multiple business fields, which can help students discover their interests and strengths.
Cons of a Bachelor’s degree in business
- Lack of specialisation: A Bachelor’s degree in Business may not provide the depth of knowledge necessary to specialize in a particular field, which may limit job opportunities for graduates who lack specialised skills or knowledge.
- Limited depth of knowledge: While a general business degree covers a variety of subjects, it may not provide the depth of knowledge necessary for graduates to excel in a particular field.
- Competitiveness of the job market: With so many Business degree graduates entering the job market each year, competition for jobs can be fierce, which may make it more difficult for graduates to secure employment.
What do experts say?
There is a growing trend among employers that actual skills are more important than the type of degree a candidate holds. This is supported by LinkedIn’s CEO, Ryan Roslansky, who has said that skills-based hiring is becoming more and more prevalent.
In fact, a study of investment bankers revealed that generalists with broader backgrounds tend to receive higher offers than specialists later in their careers. This is not to say that specialisation is not important, but rather that having a broad foundation from business school can be an asset in today’s job market.
Employers are looking for well-rounded candidates who can bring a variety of skills and knowledge to the job. Therefore, it is important for candidates to showcase their skills and achievements, along with their educational background, in order to stand out in job interviews.
Standing Out As Candidate
When it comes to standing out as a candidate in today’s competitive job market, having a well-rounded and high-quality education can be a significant advantage. Here are some strategies to help you differentiate yourself and make the most out of business degrees.
Gaining Experience
Gaining practical experience is crucial for students who want to stand out in the job market after graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Business administration. While a degree can provide a theoretical foundation for understanding the business world, real-world experience can provide the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a competitive job market.
There are several ways to gain practical experience in the business world, including internships, part-time jobs, and volunteer work. Internships, in particular, are a great way to gain practical experience in a specific field and can provide valuable networking opportunities with industry professionals.
Part-time jobs can also be beneficial, as they provide the opportunity to work in a business environment while pursuing a degree. Even if the job is not directly related to the field of study, it can provide valuable transferable skills such as time management, communication, and problem-solving.
Volunteer work can also provide valuable experience, particularly for students who are interested in non-profit or social entrepreneurship. Many non-profit organizations need volunteers to help with fundraising, marketing, or event planning, providing an opportunity to gain practical experience while also making a positive impact in the community.
Side Projects
Side projects are a great way for business students to gain additional experience and build their skills outside of the classroom. A side project can be anything from creating a new app, starting a blog, or launching a new business. These projects can be a great way for students to explore their interests, develop new skills, and gain valuable experience that will make them more marketable to potential employers.
One advantage of side projects is that they allow students to work on something that they are passionate about. This can help students to stay motivated and engaged in their work, as they are more likely to be interested in a project that they care about.
Another advantage of side projects is that they provide an opportunity for students to develop skills that they may not be able to learn in the classroom. For example, starting a business can provide valuable experience in entrepreneurship, marketing, and project management.
Side projects can also be a great way to showcase skills and experience on a resume. Potential employers may be impressed by a student who has launched a successful blog, created a new app, or started a successful business while still in school.
UBI Business School Advantage
UBI Business School offers specialization options within their programmes in the final year, allowing students to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals. Additionally, the school has earned a QS 5-star rating in teaching, online learning, and employability, which is a testament to the quality of education that students receive.
On top of that, UBI Business School also offers a range of opportunities for international travel and exchange, including international trips, internships, and exchange programmes. These experiences can help students to develop a global perspective and gain valuable insights into different cultures and business practices, which can be a significant advantage in today’s globalized economy.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, while it is true that a Bachelor’s in Business can be considered a general degree, it is not necessarily a disadvantage in the job market.
Rather, it can be an asset for candidates who are looking to build a broad foundation in business and gain a variety of skills and knowledge that can be applied across different industries.
Additionally, gaining experience through internships, side projects, and other opportunities can help candidates stand out to employers. Specialised master’s degrees can also be a viable option for those who want to gain a deeper understanding of a particular area of business.
Ultimately, what matters most is the skills and achievements that candidates can bring to the table, along with their educational background. By showcasing their critical thinking skills and a strong personal branding, candidates can stand out in job interviews and succeed in the competitive job market.