Why study business? 5 specific reasons for studying business.

Business can be studied through formal programs of instruction such as those offered at various colleges. These programs teach the basic concepts, methods, principles, and practices used in modern business. The formal study of business provides the framework for later experiences; together they build toward a well-rounded management education.

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The study of business - or business administration, as it is often called - has grown more formalized and systematic over the years. In the past, many managers achieved their positions on the basis of practical experience in a given area rather than through formal study. But times have changed, and formal education in business has become a recognized early step to a business career. Business leaders of earlier decades would be amazed to see the modern classrooms and instructional methods used by contemporary business students.

The study of business has become one of the most popular programs at colleges and universities. More and more students want to enter this challenging career field. Business programs are usually organized around functional areas. Courses are offered in such subjects as accounting, finance, management, personnel, marketing, sales, and data processing. Most business programs require students to take at least one course in each major area of study.

Although students can learn the basics of business in a classroom setting, they need other experiences outside the classroom for a well-rounded business education. Informal study - reading and various job related experiences - can further a business education. Meaningful part-time and summer work experience can be invaluable. Internships, study tours, visits to manufacturers, and the like are also vital. Serious business students should further their knowledge by regularly reading business publications.

Senior business executives are constantly learning how to become more effective managers. Many consumers are examining how business decisions affect their daily lives. Many students are enrolled in business administration courses. With this much activity, it is fitting that attention be given to why and how people study business.

Why study business?

People study business for a number of reasons. Some plan a business career. Other wants to learn how the business system affects them in their role of wage earner or consumer. Still others are curious about what business actually means. 

Certainly, business affects all of us in some manner; and the more we know about the subject, the better we will be able to cope with some of our most common, everyday problems.

5 Specific reasons for studying business

Career selection 

Most students do not spend adequate time in selecting a career. Many drift from one curriculum to another and then from one kind of job to another. The study of business allows a student to consider various occupational possibilities. The bulk career possibilities are in private industry, but many similar possibilities are available in public employment and non-profit organizations.

The study of business allows the student to consider various kinds of jobs - the work required, the available rewards, the necessary training, and the relative advantages and disadvantages of each. This texts includes sections describing jobs that can be found in each major area of business. Employment trends, job sources, employment search strategies, resume preparation, and other useful topics are explored.

Self-employment 

Some students will decide to work for themselves and establish their own business. Since most business concepts and principles are the same regardless of the size of the firm, studying business can be an invaluable first step in setting up a business.

Self-employed persons are actively and personally involved in business. A knowledge of successful business practices becomes even more crucial for those who risk their own funds. The solution - study business.

Tackling the problems of society 

Business puts people on the firing line for most of today's pressing social problems. Alternative energy sources, resource conservation, pollution, minority hiring and affirmative action programs, consumerism, and industrial safety are problems a business person encounters on a daily basis.

A business career is likely to place an individual in a position of responsibility earlier than most occupations. Many experts believe that business careers are an excellent choice for activists who want to improve society.

Better consumer decisions 

Business decisions create consumer decisions. A certain stereo comes with three options for accessory equipment. An executive decides to pass on a recent union wage increase to the consumer by raising a product's price. These are typical business decisions that call for related decision making by consumers.

The study of business provides an appreciation of the background for many consumer decisions. Consumer advocates often point out that an informed consumer is a better consumer.

Business is relevant 

Students sometimes argue that various fields of study simply are not relevant to life today. Perhaps this is so. But few students believe that business is not relevant. 

Regardless of opinions about business, executive behavior, and the private enterprise system, the study of business is the study of what is happening today. Business is probably one of the most relevant and fascinating subjects the student will ever study.