What is the right business degree for you? Our guide lays out the different types of degrees for aspiring business students.

By Chris Kyle

Malcolm Forbes, an American billionaire and business magnate, once said, "The biggest mistake people make in life is not trying to make a living at doing what they most enjoy."

Well, what do you enjoy doing? Where is your career today and where do you want to go tomorrow?

What's the most important factor that goes into choosing the best business degree for you? The answer is deceptively simple: YOU.

By figuring out what you want - and when you want it - you can save time and money by focusing on the business degree you need to succeed. Fortunately, there are more options than ever before, and navigating those choices is easier than you may think.

Here is a list of different business degrees. See which one is right for you.

Business Administration

Have you ever thought about owning or operating a business? A business administration degree program can help your dreams become a reality. Whether you're just starting out or already have work experience, a business administration degree can help you shape your professional future. Business administration is a general term describing business degrees that provide training in the skills needed to understand and manage a business.

These degree come at all levels. You can earn an associate's degree in business administration in just two years time to get ahead or receive a more comprehensive bachelor's degree in business administration in four years. On a higher level, a graduate-level master's in business administration (MBA) can help you break into management and advance to the highest levels of an organization.

Many business administration degrees are offered online - providing flexibility and options for people who can't commit to a full-time, classroom-based program. The online business administration programs vary in length, but many can be completed in two years or less.

Accounting/Finance

If math is your strong set, accounting and finance may be business specialties you should explore.

In the wake of the financial crisis and with increased regulation, accountants are in demand like never before. There are opportunities for trained accountants in all sectors of the economy including manufacturing, high tech, government, and others. Accountants also handle taxes and audits for individuals and businesses. You can get your career started with an accounting degree and work toward your certification as a CPA (Certified Public Accountant).

A degree in finance could prepare you for a career as a personal financial counselor or give you the skills to work in an organizational capacity raising funds for entrepreneurial ventures.

Human Resources Management

Are you a people person? If so, a fun and exciting career in human resources management could bring out the best in you. In a human resources degree program, you'll study the latest management and communication techniques you'll need to recruit and retain the best and brightest employees. This is a key role for all organizations today as market conditions constantly evolve. Whether you're new to the profession or looking to move into a more senior position, a human resources management degree can help.

Marketing, Sales, and PR

Creative and outgoing self-starters who are instinctive and understand the needs of a wide range of people are well-suited to successful careers in marketing, sales, and PR (Public Relations). Every business has something to sell, and the sales and marketing teams make it happen. Marketing and sales degree programs vary in length. Earn an associate's degree in two years or build a rock-solid foundation with a bachelor's degree in marketing and sales. It's an incredibly valuable degree to have when venturing into the job market.

PR specialists focus on communicating an organization's message to the public via the media. Remember, PR work can be found at for-profit companies, non-profit organizations, religious organizations, and many others. Even government agencies have PR departments. You can get the training for a PR career online or on-campus. You'll study disciplines such as mass media, visual communication, advertising, journalism - as well as marketing.

E-Business/E-Commerce

Do you have a head for business and enjoy working on computers? A degree in e-business/e-commerce can help you put your skills to work in this rapidly evolving area. Companies like Amazon and Netflix have revolutionized the way businesses operate online. However, e-commerce continues to evolve and become and even-more integrated part of consumer's lives. Look into a master's degree, bachelor's degree, or an associate's degree in e-business/e-commerce to stay relevant in today's rapidly evolving global economy.

Administrative Office Support

If you're just starting out in the world of business, you may find opportunities in an administrative support capacity.

You'll need to be organized, detail-oriented, and enjoy helping others. You can earn a certificate or degree in administrative office support in a relatively short amount of time - perhaps as little as six to eight months. You'll learn the latest software tools for managing and office and contributing to the productivity of an organization.

These careers can be rewarding in themselves but also provide opportunities to learn about a business and prepare you to advance in your career.