BSBA vs. BBA: Which Business Degree is Right For You?
After you’ve made the decision to pursue a business administration degree, it is important to understand all the options available to you. Many business students choose between two degree programs: the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) and the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA).
Although these degrees may sound similar, each offers a different skill set. Let’s take a closer look at both degree programs.
BSBA Degree Overview
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) programs typically place more of an emphasis on math and analysis. The curriculum focuses on providing students with a general knowledge of business, economics, accounting and marketing. This gives students a more advanced analytical skill set than their counterparts.
Students learn general business principles and develop skills in communication and decision-making. Some of the areas of study include general business, legal studies, management, finance, economics and business analytics.
BBA Degree Overview
The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree, on the other hand, places more of an emphasis on liberal arts studies. This program provides a generalized foundation of many disciplines within the business industry, meaning the degree can be applied to a wider range of career fields.
Students in this program take courses in business economics, business mathematics, marketing management, statistics and corporate finance, to name a few. Each course is designed to provide students with advanced financial and technical skills.
Potential Career Opportunities
A BSBA degree program provides students with a basic skill set that includes accounting, finance, economics, management, marketing and international business. Alternatively, a BBA degree focuses on business and management skills that prepare students to tackle a variety of business tasks like writing a business plan, keeping accurate financial books, leading staff members and handling legal issues.
Both degrees provide graduates with a wide variety of job opportunities in similar areas, but there are slight differences. Some of the potential career fields open to graduates of both degree programs include:
| Accountant | Accountant |
| Financial Analyst | Financial Controller |
| Human Resources Manager | Human Resources Manager |
| Financial Manager | Operations Manager |
| Market Risk Associate | Real Estate Agent |
| Advertising and Promotions Specialist | Commodities Trader |
| Financial Advisor | Administrative Supervisor |
The Decision: BSBA or BBA?
When deciding which business degree to pursue, consider your career goals and preferred areas of study. From an academic perspective, both degrees are equally valued. To decide on the right business degree, you need to understand exactly what you want and compare the different features of each program to determine the best fit.
You also need to consider your individual strengths. If, for example, you are good at math and science, a BSBA degree might be the right choice for you, especially if you want to explore analytics and business. A BBA degree is a great fit if your main goal is to understand business, finance and entrepreneurship without necessarily taking on other general education requirements.
If you are still having trouble making up your mind after reading this guide, consider contacting your academic advisor for guidance. An advisor may be willing to share their experiences and help you make a sound decision.
Prepare to pursue a rewarding career in business management by earning your degree at Grand Canyon University. The Colangelo College of Business offers a wide variety of degree programs, including a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree. Students can take classes online or on-campus while they develop the skills necessary to enter the workforce with confidence. Click on Request More Information at the top of your screen to begin your academic journey with GCU.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Grand Canyon University. Any sources cited were accurate as of the publish date.
