Unlock your potential: Career path options with a business degree

The demand for skilled professionals with an understanding of business management principles and strategies is at an all-time high. No matter the stage of your career, gaining any of our degrees focused on business can help you achieve your professional aspirations. What about considering an online degree? Learn about how it’s just as valuable as a traditional on-campus programme. What exciting career paths can you explore with an online Business Degree? Here’s what you need to know.

Why choose Aston Online? 

We understand the needs of today's learners and professionals. Our extensive range of Business programmes, delivered online, offers a flexible and accessible pathway to academic and professional success. As part of Aston Business School, a globally renowned institution with triple accreditation, our online degrees uphold the same rigorous standards of excellence as their on-campus counterparts. We focus on innovation, industry relevance, and student-centric learning. We coach individuals from diverse backgrounds to succeed in the competitive field of business.

What we offer:

We’ve designed each programme to close critical skills gaps locally and globally, preparing you for leadership in fast-moving industries. 

Executive Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Solve complex business problems with evidence-based strategies. The Executive DBA, delivered by Aston Business School, blends advanced theory with applied research. You'll specialise in areas such as marketing, finance, strategy, or leadership development, supported by expert supervisors throughout your doctoral journey.

Bachelor of Science in Business and Management (BSc)

Build a strong foundation in business from day one. This undergraduate programme equips you with a broad understanding of management functions, decision-making, and real-world business operations. You’ll explore how key business disciplines intersect and learn to approach challenges from a practical, integrated perspective.

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Think like an entrepreneur. Lead like an executive. Aston’s MBA develops strategic thinking and leadership skills through real-world projects and case studies. Delivered by our triple-accredited Business School, this programme gives you a global perspective and the tools to drive innovation and growth.

Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSc)

Turn data into business insight. This programme trains you in data visualisation, predictive modelling, and analytical thinking to help organisations make smarter decisions. Ideal for professionals looking to enhance performance through data, the MSc prepares you to lead in data-driven environments across any sector.

 

Career opportunities: 

As a prospective student, it is important to identify some of the many available career pathways a Business Degree can unlock. Here's a glimpse into some of the exciting career avenues you can explore:

1. Management consulting: 

This role puts you at the forefront of driving organisational change and efficiency. Your primary responsibility will be to work closely with clients. These clients range from small startups to large corporations across various industries. You'll conduct in-depth analyses of their operations, processes, and strategies. With this data, you’ll be able to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement.  

You will be analysing financial data, interviewing stakeholders, and assessing market trends. With your findings, you'll develop strategic recommendations to achieve client goals. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and effective communication. A Business Degree equips you with the necessary knowledge to do this. You'll gain skills like strategic planning, organisational behaviour, and project management.

2. Marketing management: 

As a marketing manager, you'll create and execute strategies that drive brand awareness, engagement, and sales. Working with cross-functional teams, you'll develop marketing campaigns. These campaigns need to resonate with target audiences and align with the company's objectives.  

This involves conducting market research, analysing competitors' strategies, and leveraging various media channels. Your creativity, strategic thinking, and ability to analyse data will be essential in crafting effective campaigns that capture the attention of your target audience. With this degree, you'll gain a solid foundation in areas like marketing strategy, consumer behaviour, and brand management. It will prepare you for a successful career in marketing management.

3. Financial analysis: 

Financial analysts’ jobs are more than analysing financial data. You'll be evaluating investment opportunities, and providing insights to support informed decision-making.  You'll examine financial statements and conduct industry research to identify risks and opportunities. Your analyses will help guide strategic decisions like budget planning and financial forecasting.  

Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in financial modelling and software tools are essential for success in this role. A sound business education provides an understanding of financial principles, accounting practices, and analytical techniques. It gives you the expertise needed to excel as a financial analyst.

4. Entrepreneurship: 

Entrepreneurship is about more than just starting a business — it's about identifying opportunities, taking calculated risks, and turning innovative ideas into successful ventures. Entrepreneurs need a lot of skills, from business planning and product development to marketing and sales. Your trajectory will involve navigating challenges, adapting to market changes, and continuously innovating to stay ahead of the competition. While entrepreneurship requires a certain level of risk-taking and resilience, having a Business Degree can provide you with valuable skills and knowledge in areas such as business planning, entrepreneurship theory, and strategic management. Additionally, networking opportunities and mentorship programmes offered through your degree programme can provide valuable support in jumpstarting your business. 

5. Operations management: 

Operations managers oversee the day-to-day operations of a business. Your responsibilities include production, logistics, supply chain management and quality control. This involves identifying areas for improvement and implementing best practices. It also means streamlining workflows to maximise productivity and minimise costs. Strong leadership skills, analytical thinking, and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams are skills best suited to this career. Operations management is all about optimising processes and improving efficiency. The aim of this is to reach organisational goals.

 

Where to after? 

Graduates have secured high-profile roles with leading international firms across various sectors, including management consultancy, marketing and service delivery and business. 

Our graduates have gone on to work at companies including Atos, PwC, DHL, Santander, National Grid, Nissan, KPMG, BMW Group UK, Lidl GB, Network Rail, Amazon, Rolls Royce, FDM Group, Deloitte and Jaguar Land Rover. 

 

Lead by example

To truly understand the impact of our online degrees, let's meet some of our esteemed alumni who have carved out successful careers in diverse industries: 

• Lucy Baines: With a keen eye for strategic communication, Lucy leads the communications efforts for Hiscox USA, leveraging her expertise to enhance brand reputation and engagement. 

• Greg Forbes: As the Senior Director of Global Agency Partnerships at Yahoo, Greg leverages his leadership skills and industry insights to foster collaboration and drive business growth on a global scale. 

• Ali-Reza Panjwani: Contributing to the success of J.P. Morgan in New York City, Ali-Reza utilises his business acumen to navigate complex financial markets and drive sustainable growth for the organisation. 

Our programmes are designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to thrive in today's business environment. From interactive learning experiences to personalised support from industry experts, we're committed to uplifting and assisting you every step of the way. 

 

Ready to transform your career? 

If you're ready to take the next step towards a rewarding career in business, explore our online Business programmes at Aston Online today. With our flexible learning options, industry-relevant curriculum, and unwavering commitment to student success, your career is on the right track to success. 

Contact us today to learn more about how our online degrees can accelerate your career advancement and open up a world of possibilities.