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Which business degree is more profitable in USA, specifically in TX?
I'm on my sophomore year of college, in Accounting, Business and Economics major. I always wanted to study Art, specifically a drawing concentration, but my parents want me to study a "real career", luckily, I am a math person too, and I like finance, accounting, and business in general, but I am more in the analysis/math side rather than on the "managing and dealing with people" side. I want to get a very profitable job since I want the most money I could possibly get in order to study a second degree in Art and stop depending on my parents decisions, and why not? move to another city even state in US like NY or Washington, I just want to work as few years as possible to get enough bucks in order to chase my passion and having a plan B in case my plan of becoming an artist fails.
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Michelle’s Answer
Hi, Arley !
What a fabulous career plan you have and I think that it is wonderful that you have several interests and an adventurous spirit !
It's really difficult to say among Business, Accounting and Economics as to which would be more profitable. But you will get your answer to this right at the time you graduate with your degree and start to apply for career jobs. It sounds as though you can do it all so you're versatile and shouldn't have any problem. Go through your education now and discover the financial opportunities at the time you graduate because everything changes over time. It is a field of work in which many people do well, so you probably have nothing to worry about.
You can make general assumptions that it's not so much which state, but which city would have many opportunities for you and the chance to choose projects better than if you start a career in a small town or rural area. So instead of wondering about States for a salary you would like, think of it more in which cities you would like to live in. The more people, the more businesses, the better your opportunities will be for a variety of work. And with your degree and know-how in Business, you could very well start your own business for a service or product. There are many options which you will learn more about as you move forward in college.
As for going for a Masters in Art, your real love, that is also a fabulous plan. Try not to forecast how everything will go. As with anything in life, take it a step at a time, put actions to your thoughts and don't try to plan every detail at this time. Having the experience as a Masters student in Art will enhance your focus and involvement and you will meet a lot of people and go to many events that may open doors for you. You can always do art, even now. You can take an art course now as an elective and start meeting artists, professionals and professors that have a lot of information that can help a career. Start your portfolio now. Photograph everything you create. Have a hard copy and electronic online portfolio that you can show people later on when applying for the Masters program or for work projects. Since Art is your real passion, do not put it on the back burner now.
Explore scholarships for information for the near future that will help you with the cost of your Masters Degree. The College Art Association gives scholarships to graduate students. Another scholarship for Masters Degree art students is The World Studio Foundation. There really are so many scholarships including from the college you go to for your Masters in Art. You have to spend some time searching online for more scholarships and grants if you want financial assistance for a Masters Degree. Many of them are based on nationality/heritage, major and various other categories. If you know that you can apply for scholarships, including ones from your Masters Program college for Art, it may lessen any worry about financial matters. Sometimes these things do work themselves out and you learn different things as you go along. Look into the Terry Masters Memorial Scholarship, too.
Do not put aside anything that you love. Your art is important and you never know what the future brings. It may be a combination of Art and Business that your future may hold. Never give up, have fun, strive for good grades and you will be happy. I wish you all the best !
THE WORLD STUDIO FOUNDATION FOR MASTERS LEVEL SCHOLARSHIPS http://worldstudioinc.com/
SOME SCHOLARSHIPS ARE FOR MASTERS DEGREES https://scholarships360.org/scholarships/top-art-scholarships/
THE TERRY MASTERS SCHOLARSHIP https://terrymasters.com/scholarship
What a fabulous career plan you have and I think that it is wonderful that you have several interests and an adventurous spirit !
It's really difficult to say among Business, Accounting and Economics as to which would be more profitable. But you will get your answer to this right at the time you graduate with your degree and start to apply for career jobs. It sounds as though you can do it all so you're versatile and shouldn't have any problem. Go through your education now and discover the financial opportunities at the time you graduate because everything changes over time. It is a field of work in which many people do well, so you probably have nothing to worry about.
You can make general assumptions that it's not so much which state, but which city would have many opportunities for you and the chance to choose projects better than if you start a career in a small town or rural area. So instead of wondering about States for a salary you would like, think of it more in which cities you would like to live in. The more people, the more businesses, the better your opportunities will be for a variety of work. And with your degree and know-how in Business, you could very well start your own business for a service or product. There are many options which you will learn more about as you move forward in college.
As for going for a Masters in Art, your real love, that is also a fabulous plan. Try not to forecast how everything will go. As with anything in life, take it a step at a time, put actions to your thoughts and don't try to plan every detail at this time. Having the experience as a Masters student in Art will enhance your focus and involvement and you will meet a lot of people and go to many events that may open doors for you. You can always do art, even now. You can take an art course now as an elective and start meeting artists, professionals and professors that have a lot of information that can help a career. Start your portfolio now. Photograph everything you create. Have a hard copy and electronic online portfolio that you can show people later on when applying for the Masters program or for work projects. Since Art is your real passion, do not put it on the back burner now.
Explore scholarships for information for the near future that will help you with the cost of your Masters Degree. The College Art Association gives scholarships to graduate students. Another scholarship for Masters Degree art students is The World Studio Foundation. There really are so many scholarships including from the college you go to for your Masters in Art. You have to spend some time searching online for more scholarships and grants if you want financial assistance for a Masters Degree. Many of them are based on nationality/heritage, major and various other categories. If you know that you can apply for scholarships, including ones from your Masters Program college for Art, it may lessen any worry about financial matters. Sometimes these things do work themselves out and you learn different things as you go along. Look into the Terry Masters Memorial Scholarship, too.
Do not put aside anything that you love. Your art is important and you never know what the future brings. It may be a combination of Art and Business that your future may hold. Never give up, have fun, strive for good grades and you will be happy. I wish you all the best !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Jared’s Answer
I always advice people to study a field that they like (Passion for the topic) BUT ALWAYS ensure it also allows for a decent wage and career / hiring. I have a friend who spent $145K to graduate with a degree in music from a well know liberal arts college and works as a receptionist, besides the occasional weekend music gig...lots of debt and few job opportunities besides teach music. Do music as a hobby, but, find a program / degree that you are sure can help you make a living adn give you good job prospects (unless you are loaded, and in that case, do what you love!)
In terms of business, finance is a great general degree and allows for many types of positions (analyst, investments, procurement, etc)
Some people love consistent and rules based work - accounting is great for that. But, often acctg is recording past decisions made by others and other jobs actually make or influence those decisions upfront!
In terms of business, finance is a great general degree and allows for many types of positions (analyst, investments, procurement, etc)
Some people love consistent and rules based work - accounting is great for that. But, often acctg is recording past decisions made by others and other jobs actually make or influence those decisions upfront!
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Julie’s Answer
Hi and great to ask these questions now. Bottom line, if you don't enjoy what you do you will be miserable for as many years as takes to 'be profitable', realizing you may not be profitable with your first or even several jobs...so you could be unhappy/dread working for many years.
The better question to ask yourself might be what do I enjoy studying which could provide me a decent living and lifestyle, so I can make independent decisions on my own. You may need to talk to a career counselor at school or do 'informational interviewing' which you can search on to learn that process. Being a math person is fantastic, as you can apply those analytical skills to really any of the choices you are considering: finance, accounting, business, and yes Art.
Is there a reason you cannot get a concentration in Art or continue to study in any 'spare time' you would have? Also, to be honest, the skill of "managing and dealing with people" is something you may encounter in any career, including being at Artist. You may also want to discuss that frankly with a career counselor. It is okay not to be a 'people person', but there are skills you can develop/learn to cope with this aspect of any career. Best wishes!
The better question to ask yourself might be what do I enjoy studying which could provide me a decent living and lifestyle, so I can make independent decisions on my own. You may need to talk to a career counselor at school or do 'informational interviewing' which you can search on to learn that process. Being a math person is fantastic, as you can apply those analytical skills to really any of the choices you are considering: finance, accounting, business, and yes Art.
Is there a reason you cannot get a concentration in Art or continue to study in any 'spare time' you would have? Also, to be honest, the skill of "managing and dealing with people" is something you may encounter in any career, including being at Artist. You may also want to discuss that frankly with a career counselor. It is okay not to be a 'people person', but there are skills you can develop/learn to cope with this aspect of any career. Best wishes!
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Sabrina’s Answer
My partner was a Fine Arts major in undergrad. I do not have any advice specific to your question necessarily, but have you considered marketing? It took them getting an entry level position at a Marketing firm to realize it was the perfect balance of business and creativity to pursue full time, while also pursuing painting in their free time!
They specifically studied Mass Communications with a focus in Social Media Marketing in graduate school to supplement their BA and quickly realized they have an eye that most do not have. I encourage you to not lose faith and get creative in your pursuit of a lucrative career that taps into both your talents and passions.
I am an engineer and this love is not something I understand. But it is a journey that I have grown to love for my spouse because you can have a professional life in a creative space!
Please keep exploring. It will always be worth it.
Good luck!
They specifically studied Mass Communications with a focus in Social Media Marketing in graduate school to supplement their BA and quickly realized they have an eye that most do not have. I encourage you to not lose faith and get creative in your pursuit of a lucrative career that taps into both your talents and passions.
I am an engineer and this love is not something I understand. But it is a journey that I have grown to love for my spouse because you can have a professional life in a creative space!
Please keep exploring. It will always be worth it.
Good luck!
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Jared’s Answer
I always encourage folks to pursue a field they truly love and are passionate about, but it's equally important to consider its potential for a decent income and job opportunities. I have a friend who invested $145K in a 4-year music degree from a renowned liberal arts college in NY. Today, they work as a receptionist and play music gigs on weekends. Despite their love for the program, they're now burdened with a hefty debt and limited job prospects outside of teaching music. They've come to regret their choice. So, consider music as a hobby or even a minor subject, but prioritize a program or degree that offers solid job prospects and a stable income. Of course, if you're financially secure, feel free to follow your heart!
When it comes to business, a degree in finance is a fantastic general option that opens doors to a variety of roles such as analyst, investment specialist, procurement officer, and more.
For those who appreciate consistency and rule-based tasks, accounting is an excellent choice. However, bear in mind that accounting often involves recording past decisions made by others, while other roles give you the chance to make or influence those decisions from the get-go!
When it comes to business, a degree in finance is a fantastic general option that opens doors to a variety of roles such as analyst, investment specialist, procurement officer, and more.
For those who appreciate consistency and rule-based tasks, accounting is an excellent choice. However, bear in mind that accounting often involves recording past decisions made by others, while other roles give you the chance to make or influence those decisions from the get-go!
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Jonathan’s Answer
I do not think it is a matter of what degree you rather the grades you get. Certainly if you want to have a career in finance, majoring in economics, finance, business will demonstrate an interest in the area, however, you still need the grades. I would say major in economics or finance if this is your plan.
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Xiaojie Johan’s Answer
Hello Arely,
You could always try for a master's degree in analytics or data science. The career opportunities for data analytics or data science is very good. It might be worth it to try to ask your advisors in your undergraduate program for advice. They will know for sure whether it is a good idea for you.
Hopefully this helps!
Best regards,
Johan
You could always try for a master's degree in analytics or data science. The career opportunities for data analytics or data science is very good. It might be worth it to try to ask your advisors in your undergraduate program for advice. They will know for sure whether it is a good idea for you.
Hopefully this helps!
Best regards,
Johan
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Olivia’s Answer
Regarding the most profitable, these three majors are often lumped together for business roles and result in similar outcomes. However, something you may want to consider since you are good at math is investment banking. One of the exit paths for IB is private equity. There are funds out there which specialize in fine art collecting/investing. Additionally, asset management may be of an interest since they service high net worth individuals who often collect art.
Thomas O'Shea
Music Producer, Composer, Live Sound Engineer, Musician
114
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Thomas’s Answer
This is going to sound cruel and I know that it's going to come across as "don't listen to your parents" but that isn't quite what I mean. Anyways, here it goes. Do what YOU want. This is your life and you only live once. My parents (specifically my dad) were COMPLETELY against me studying music in fact my dad still kind of is against it because he "has no idea how I'm going to make money" even though all my money has come from music related jobs. I was so deep in the "get a real career" that I ruined my mental health and barely slept just so that I could get "good grades" in a subject I absolutely despised because my dad wanted me to have, as you put it, a "real career". PLEASE do not make my mistakes. I regret not standing up for myself and actually doing what I wanted and now I can't do one of the degrees and certifications that I wanted. Anything artistic IS a real career and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. There are plenty of ways for artists to make money- you just have to look for them.
I say that you should switch your major if you truly want to go into art. 1. You have plenty of time before you graduate (and can even add a year or two especially if you're studying something you love) and 2. making your own art isn't the only thing you will have to make money once you graduate. You could work for museums, design logos or signs for local businesses, or really do anything that involves some kind of art or being creative. Personally, I don't have a plan B- I believe that having a plan B is planning to fail. Sounds negative, I know, but by saying it in that way, I'm forcing myself even more to put my all into my career- to 1. Live comfortably, and 2. prove my dad wrong.
The best thing you can do is fill your days with as many art related things that you can be paid for. Become a freelance artist and offer different kinds of art to personally make for people. Teaching is always an option for the arts- kids have a need to be creative and therefore they need someone to push them in the right direction and support their creativity. At some point, you have to just tell yourself that if it has something to do with art and you're getting paid then it's the best of both worlds.
Take me for example- I fill my day with as many music related things as possible. I produce for artists around the country whom I met through social media (and I have different options if they are unable to pay upfront), I mix live music for shows at an outdoor venue, I offer mixing services so that bands and musicians can focus on performing and writing their music and know that what they record will sound as good as possible, I compose classical music and play classical piano and harpsichord whenever an opportunity allows, I'm starting a record label, AND I'm a music consultant/ A&R who helps artists or bands go in the direction they want to go for their future music endeavors. I know that's a lot of stuff and by no means am I saying you need to do that many things but all of those things involve some part of music that I enjoy. You can do the same for art. Draw or paint portraits or landscapes for people who want something that reminds them of a happy time. Maybe reach out to a local art museum and see if they need student workers. you could start a business and draw or paint a whole bunch of art and put it on a website where people can buy digital copies or physical copies. As an artist, the world is your oyster- you can do whatever you want!
I really hope this helps and I really hope you don't give up on your dreams just so you can make money.
I say that you should switch your major if you truly want to go into art. 1. You have plenty of time before you graduate (and can even add a year or two especially if you're studying something you love) and 2. making your own art isn't the only thing you will have to make money once you graduate. You could work for museums, design logos or signs for local businesses, or really do anything that involves some kind of art or being creative. Personally, I don't have a plan B- I believe that having a plan B is planning to fail. Sounds negative, I know, but by saying it in that way, I'm forcing myself even more to put my all into my career- to 1. Live comfortably, and 2. prove my dad wrong.
The best thing you can do is fill your days with as many art related things that you can be paid for. Become a freelance artist and offer different kinds of art to personally make for people. Teaching is always an option for the arts- kids have a need to be creative and therefore they need someone to push them in the right direction and support their creativity. At some point, you have to just tell yourself that if it has something to do with art and you're getting paid then it's the best of both worlds.
Take me for example- I fill my day with as many music related things as possible. I produce for artists around the country whom I met through social media (and I have different options if they are unable to pay upfront), I mix live music for shows at an outdoor venue, I offer mixing services so that bands and musicians can focus on performing and writing their music and know that what they record will sound as good as possible, I compose classical music and play classical piano and harpsichord whenever an opportunity allows, I'm starting a record label, AND I'm a music consultant/ A&R who helps artists or bands go in the direction they want to go for their future music endeavors. I know that's a lot of stuff and by no means am I saying you need to do that many things but all of those things involve some part of music that I enjoy. You can do the same for art. Draw or paint portraits or landscapes for people who want something that reminds them of a happy time. Maybe reach out to a local art museum and see if they need student workers. you could start a business and draw or paint a whole bunch of art and put it on a website where people can buy digital copies or physical copies. As an artist, the world is your oyster- you can do whatever you want!
I really hope this helps and I really hope you don't give up on your dreams just so you can make money.
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Denise’s Answer
Like you, I also loved art and was lucky to have parents who nudged me towards a well-paying career. I chose to study Graphic Design and worked in that industry for a while. Later, I transitioned into a managerial role and now, I'm a Program Director in the creative sector, working with both corporate clients and Digital Agencies. My advice to you is to chase your passion as soon as you can and figure out how to make a living from it. The world is full of opportunities today, and you might want to consider studying your passion as a minor. This way, you can start using your skills sooner rather than later.
Explore resources available at your school with career counseling to see what career options there may be today that you could explore using the various skills you have acquired throughout your academic career bringing that passion closer to the forefront than a longer term goal.
Explore art classes you can take now, in addition to your major field of study
Denise recommends the following next steps:
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Caroline’s Answer
t's really difficult to say among Business, Accounting and Economics as to which would be more profitable. But you will get your answer to this right at the time you graduate with your degree and start to apply for career jobs. It sounds as though you can do it all so you're versatile and shouldn't have any problem. Go through your education now and discover the financial opportunities at the time you graduate because everything changes over time. It is a field of work in which many people do well, so you probably have nothing to worry about.
You can make general assumptions that it's not so much which state, but which city would have many opportunities for you and the chance to choose projects better than if you start a career in a small town or rural area. So instead of wondering about States for a salary you would like, think of it more in which cities you would like to live in. The more people, the more businesses, the better your opportunities will be for a variety of work. And with your degree and know-how in Business, you could very well start your own business for a service or product. There are many options which you will learn more about as you move forward in college.
You can make general assumptions that it's not so much which state, but which city would have many opportunities for you and the chance to choose projects better than if you start a career in a small town or rural area. So instead of wondering about States for a salary you would like, think of it more in which cities you would like to live in. The more people, the more businesses, the better your opportunities will be for a variety of work. And with your degree and know-how in Business, you could very well start your own business for a service or product. There are many options which you will learn more about as you move forward in college.
Updated
Virginia (ginny)’s Answer
It seems like you've already made the crucial choice of what you want to do professionally, which is fantastic! Passion is the key. Your dedication and interest naturally lead to good grades - that's a given!
Though I'm not a business major, I can share that my journey was driven by my eagerness to learn from specific professors at a school that offered the best in my area of interest. Actually, let's correct that - I was absolutely starving for knowledge in my field. So, I set out to apply to the top schools that aligned with my goals.
Like all of us, you're probably looking for a school that not only offers great education, but also opens doors to future career opportunities and provides a strong network. As a sophomore, I encourage you to make the most of your experiences, aim for the highest grades possible, and cultivate an appetite for extracurricular activities related to your field.
This is just some basic advice from my side. I see that others in your field are also sharing their insights in response to your question. I appreciate the opportunity to share my thoughts with you. Thanks for inviting me to contribute!
Though I'm not a business major, I can share that my journey was driven by my eagerness to learn from specific professors at a school that offered the best in my area of interest. Actually, let's correct that - I was absolutely starving for knowledge in my field. So, I set out to apply to the top schools that aligned with my goals.
Like all of us, you're probably looking for a school that not only offers great education, but also opens doors to future career opportunities and provides a strong network. As a sophomore, I encourage you to make the most of your experiences, aim for the highest grades possible, and cultivate an appetite for extracurricular activities related to your field.
This is just some basic advice from my side. I see that others in your field are also sharing their insights in response to your question. I appreciate the opportunity to share my thoughts with you. Thanks for inviting me to contribute!
Updated
Carol’s Answer
Hi Arely,
I would first say congratulation that you have found your passion (art)! I see my own kids struggling to find their passion which can be frustrating. And, I also think that your motivation to find a "profitable degree" is coming from the right place, as you recognize that financial independence will allow you to do what you love. Given you do like math and some aspects of the business world (Accounting, Finance, etc.), you maybe surprised how many of these skills can help you with your pursue of your passion. That's right, as a freelance artist, you will need some business skills to market your art, sell your art, manage your business, etc. I like to think of career is a jungle gym, you may have to go different routes to reach your destination, and along the way, you will pick up skills that's transferrable. My advise is to hold on to your passion, explore ways you can incorporate your passion in whatever your study or your work. Become financially independent as quickly as possible (which is also an art on itself), so you can allocate more time doing what your love to do. All the best to you, what a great question!
I would first say congratulation that you have found your passion (art)! I see my own kids struggling to find their passion which can be frustrating. And, I also think that your motivation to find a "profitable degree" is coming from the right place, as you recognize that financial independence will allow you to do what you love. Given you do like math and some aspects of the business world (Accounting, Finance, etc.), you maybe surprised how many of these skills can help you with your pursue of your passion. That's right, as a freelance artist, you will need some business skills to market your art, sell your art, manage your business, etc. I like to think of career is a jungle gym, you may have to go different routes to reach your destination, and along the way, you will pick up skills that's transferrable. My advise is to hold on to your passion, explore ways you can incorporate your passion in whatever your study or your work. Become financially independent as quickly as possible (which is also an art on itself), so you can allocate more time doing what your love to do. All the best to you, what a great question!
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