For those of you that have a business degree and know about management what would you recommend...?

Question

I am going to be a junior soon and I am thinking of switching my major from psychology to business management. Would I have to deal with a lot of difficult math (I am not a big fan of math) and would psychology be a good minor or would you recommend something else? How long would it take to become a well paid manager after graduation?

Answer 1

the amount of math required depends on which major within Business you choose.  Accounting and Finance require a certain amount of calculus, while most busines majors require several statistics courses.  Operations Management and Logistics require even more statistics.  But it's really not that hard.

Psychology is probably not a worthwhile minor for someone w/a business degree, but if you have a bunch of psych credits under your belt, and only need a few more classes to earn the minor, definitely go for it.  it might come in handy w/a marketing major.  

usually, it takes about 5yrs minimum to become a well paid manager.  Some new college grads enter into various types of management trainee programs.  For example, some get trained to become bank branch managers, or others get training to become managers for Enterprise Rent a Car.  

I'm a consultant, and the average progression is two years as a junior analyst, two years as a senior analyst, and then manager.   In a corporpate environment (as opposed to public consluting work), it could take much longer to become a manager.

I wouldn't focus too much on becoming a 'manager'....focus more on building a career and developing the relevant skills.

Answer 2

A psych minor would be a nice complement to a business degree with an emphasis in marketing.  You're going to have to do some math but it shouldn't be too complex.  

Who knows how long it'll take. Depends on taking advantage of the right opportunity if it presents itself.  Could be a couple years, could be many. (also depends on what you're definition of "well paid" is.  My expectations are way higher now than they were 10 years ago).  The main thing right out of school is to rack up experience (not just time).  Get involved with as many projects as you can and treat it like school - learn as much as you can.  

Answer 3

Since you can't get a paying job with a pysch degree, you're probably making a wise choice.  You will have to check your school's course requirements regarding the math.  Some business degrees require statistics.  It's math but not bad with a calculator.  Minor in something bankable like computers or accounting.  Unless you're planning on a PhD, psych is useless.

Well-paid manager - that's up to your performance.  Your schooling may get you in the door.  After that, it's all on you.