What Is Business Administration?

Business administrator at work

quick answer

Seeking a dynamic, rewarding career that will situate you at the core of any organization? A diploma in Business Administration could be the key to unlocking your potential as a professional leader, communicator, and decision-maker.

Many prospective students have heard of business administration as a field of study but are uncertain exactly what it refers to. Below, we’ve provided an overview of what business administration is, the types of skills and responsibilities it involves, and what sorts of career opportunities it can encompass.

At Robertson College, we are here to help you in every aspect of your career journey. Contact us today to learn more about our Business Administration programs or speak with a student advisor.

Key Takeaways

  • Business administration refers to the management of the daily operations and growth of an organization.
  • It is a broad field that can encompass operations, budgeting and finance, human resources, marketing, project management, and more.
  • Core business administration skills include effective communication, attention to detail, critical thinking, complex problem-solving, and decision-making.
  • Examples of careers in business administration include Human Resources Coordinator, Event Manager, Hospitality Coordinator, Marketing Analyst, Financial Analyst, Supply Chain Management, and many more.
  • At Robertson College, we offer a spectrum of business administration courses and programs designed to equip students with relevant skills that will help them to enter the workforce in a business administration role in one year or less!

What Is Business Administration

Business administration focuses on the management of an organization’s daily operations and growth, and business administrators are the people responsible for overseeing the practical, technical, and interpersonal aspects of running that organization. Day-to-day operations, budgeting and finance, human resources, marketing, and project management are all examples of duties and responsibilities that can fall under the broader umbrella of business administration.

From office administrators and managers to top-level executives, the field of business administration can encompass a wide variety of different roles. Though a business administrator’s responsibilities and scope of work may vary widely depending on their specific job title as well as the size, goals, and industry of the organization they work for, a business administration position typically requires the following:

  • Strong management and leadership skills
  • Effective written and oral communication
  • The ability to think critically and solve complex problems
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Excellent decision-making skills

To learn more about careers in business administration, business management, and business analytics, read our posts comparing and contrasting these distinct yet closely related professional fields.

Roles And Responsibilities In Business Administration

While every organization and business administration role is unique, some of the tasks commonly carried out by business administration professionals include:

  • Human resource duties
  • Budgeting and financial analysis
  • Overseeing marketing strategies and business processes
  • Event planning
  • Developing strategies and practices to optimize business operations
  • Goal setting, strategic planning, and training
  • Communicating with various teams and staff members
  • Identifying and addressing areas for improvement within the organization
  • Integrating new technologies

Here are six concrete examples of high-impact careers in business administration:

Human Resources Coordinator

A human resources coordinator manages and assists employees, maintains HR systems, and may also be responsible for organizing and overseeing professional events, functions, and activities. Robertson College’s Business Administration—Human Resource Coordinator Diploma Program and Human Resources Professional program are both designed to equip students with all the skills necessary to effectively take on a human resources role within a business or organization of any size.

Event Manager

From weddings and festivals to trade shows, corporate conferences, and community gatherings, every event needs a dedicated coordinator. Event managers are the individuals responsible for the planning, organization, and execution of events large and small. If you believe you have what it takes to bring events to life professionally, Robertson College’s Business Administration—Event Planning and Hospitality Diploma Program could be the right fit.

Hospitality Coordinator

Ready to turn your passion for hospitality into a full-time career? Hospitality coordinators plan events, manage budgets, coordinate travel and lodgings, arrange menus and decor, and much more. Robertson College’s Business Administration—Event Planning and Hospitality Diploma Program will provide you with all the skills necessary to take on this type of role in less than one year!

Marketing Analyst

Work within an organization to help improve its marketing strategies and results. A marketing analyst works closely with the marketing team to research market trends and conditions in order to positively impact marketing outcomes on an ongoing basis.

Financial Analyst

The role of a financial analyst involves budget building, identifying investment opportunities, and making strategic decisions to ensure the financial growth and well-being of an organization.  Kickstart your financial career with Robertson College’s Accounting Technician or Accounting & Payroll Administrator programs.  

Supply Chain Management

Supply chain management involves coordinating the movement of goods and services in order to ensure that they are delivered to customers on time and on budget. If you are highly organized and enjoy managing logistics, a supply chain management position could be a fulfilling career choice.  Robertson College’s Logistics & Supply Chain Program can help you to springboard your career.  

Ready to learn more about just how far business administration studies at Robertson College could take you? Explore some of the highest paying business administration jobs here!

Educational Requirements

Every program at Robertson College has its own unique set of admission requirements. A combination of academic information as well as prior work experience may be used to determine your eligibility to enter one of our Business Administration Diploma programs. Contact one of our Student Advisors more information and to get started with the application process today!

Business Administration Education Timeline

At Robertson College, we know you’re eager to launch your career, which is why our Business Administration Diploma programs have been strategically designed to equip you with relevant skills in a streamlined timeframe. In less than one year from starting our program, you can be entering the workforce in a business administrator role with the benefit of applied experience and industry connections gained from your professional practicum.

Contact us directly to learn more about online business administration courses or business administration courses in Edmonton, Calgary, or Winnipeg.

Is Business Administration A Good Career For You?

You know yourself, your passions, and your skill set best. A career in business administration could be an exceptional opportunity for you if:

  • You’re highly organized.
  • You’re an excellent communicator.
  • You’re a critical thinker.
  • You like working as part of a team.
  • You have strong management/leadership skills.
  • You like to make decisions and solve problems creatively.

Studying business administration at Robertson College will open up a world of opportunities to you while allowing you to hone your practical skill set and gain invaluable industry knowledge and experience. Join us in-person or online for courses carefully tailored to provide you with a comprehensive foundation in business administration.

Talk To A Student Advisor Today

Considering a new career and wondering about business administration? One of our highly qualified Student Advisors would be happy to connect with you personally to provide support and guidance and respond to any questions you may have.

Contact us today to take the first step toward the career advancement you desire and find out how we can help! We look forward to welcoming you.

Similar Blog Posts

Business Analytics vs Business Adminisration

School of Business February 7, 2025

Business Analytics Vs. Business Administration

Selecting the right post-secondary business program is fundamental to achieving the professional goals and career path you dream of, but with so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one will offer the best fit for your interests and talents....

Business Administration vs Business Management

School of Business February 7, 2025

Business Administration Vs. Business Management: Key Similarities And Differences

If you’re considering pursuing a career in business but are uncertain which diploma program could be the right fit for your professional interests, talents, and goals, then this post is for you. While all of our Business Diploma Programs at Robertson College equip students with...

Business Administration vs Accounting

School of Business January 27, 2025

Business Administration Vs. Accounting: Which Career Path Is Right For You?

Enrolling in an accounting or business administration program will equip you with relevant skills and unlock exciting job opportunities in the dynamic world of business and finance. But which of these two popular training options will offer the best path forward based on your specific...

Ready to Get Started?

Once you take the first step, one of our Student Admissions Advisors will get in touch to better understand your goals for the future.

Apply Now