Business Administration

A Flexible New Pathway to Business Careers

This fall, Hawkeye Community College launched a new Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Business Administration, designed specifically for working adults looking to advance in their careers or pivot into new opportunities in the business world.

"This is a perfect path for those who are currently in the workforce and want to move up in their current position or for those who know they want to major in business, but are unsure of which emphasis area they would like to focus on," said Dee Ulrich, an associate professor at Hawkeye Community College and one of the faculty advisors for the new Business Administration degree.

This flexible, career-focused program offers online, hybrid, and in-person class options, allowing students to tailor their education to fit their busy schedules. Ideal for individuals seeking upward mobility with their current employer or a smooth transition into a new industry, the program emphasizes practical skills that are in high demand across Iowa and the nation.

"This program is flexible because you can do it all online, or some of the classes are also offered face-to-face; whatever works best in your schedule," Ulrich said. "This program can also be completed on a part-time basis."

Students will build a solid foundation in key business functions — finance, management, sales, marketing, and human resources — during their first year. In the second year, students can tailor their education by choosing courses aligned with their career goals or specialization areas.

• Graduates will be equipped to:
• Analyze financial statements and business data
• Create professional spreadsheets
• Develop marketing strategies
• Plan and track projects
• Lead teams and apply core business concepts

Career opportunities for graduates include roles in management, human resources, marketing, sales, and customer service across industries.

Where Can Business Administration Take You?

A degree in Business Administration can open the door to many career paths. Whether you want to lead teams, work with people, promote products, or help customers, this degree gives you the skills to succeed in many different jobs.

• Management: Managers lead teams, organize daily work, and make decisions to help a business run smoothly and reach its goals.
• Human Resources: HR workers hire new employees, help staff with questions or concerns, and make sure workplace rules are fair and followed.
• Marketing: Marketing professionals create ads and campaigns to promote products or services and attract more customers.
• Sales: Salespeople connect with customers, explain products or services, and help businesses grow by meeting sales goals.
• Customer Service: Customer service staff answer questions, solve problems, and make sure customers have a good experience.