How important is a business degree when trying to start your own business?

While a business degree is not required to start a business, it does provide some foundational information that can be very helpful. I think it may be more useful for you determine what type of business you are considering and let that be your focus in terms of a degree. Depending on the type of service or product you will provide you want to ensure you are very educated in that space.

I admire your entreprenurial spirit. Good luck!!!!

Running your own business - being in charge can be one of the most rewarding experiences. Either majoring in - or taking as many relevant business courses as possible would be highly recommended. You'll be exposed to time management, business ethics, income and expense accounting, development of a business plan and how to successfully implement it, budgeting, seeking new clients - and how to retain those clients once a business relationship is established. I ran my own real estate Appraisal Company for over 20 years - with many ups and downs throughout the economic cycles. I did not have the luxury of taking business related courses in college - rather, I was a Sociology major - not the wisest of choices. I was able to learn the ins and outs of the business the hard way - just by doing it day by day. I truly wish I had the business background to back it up - your skill set will be so much deeper for the basics you'll learn - and you'll most likely be better prepared for the leaner times. Whatever you choose - take advantage of all that business courses can provide - and your success - and happiness is endless.

A degree can be a hindrance. The further you go in education, the more narrowly defined you become.
However, going to university is not just about qualifications it’s also about developing life skills and it can be the perfect place to start a business.