Students comparing their business school choices will want to spend some time considering institutions based in Alabama. The state is not only home to powerhouse schools like Auburn University and the University of Alabama, but it also has one of the best business climates in the country, according to Site Selection magazine.
The business publication ranked Alabama as 11th on its 2015 Top State Business Climate Rankings. Meanwhile, executives surveyed by the magazine ranked Alabama as the 9th best state in the nation in terms of business climate. Given those positive rankings, it shouldn't be surprising that major companies such as GE Aviation have chosen to base operations in the state.
Alabama business schools offer students the opportunity to earn their degree in a state where companies are settling and jobs may be growing. In addition, many programs are available online, making it convenient for people to schedule study times around work or family obligations.
Online Business Programs in Alabama
Business degrees and programs may be found at a number of schools within the state, both private and public. However, the most prominent Alabama business schools include the following:
- Culverhouse College of Commerce at the University of Alabama
- Harbert College of Business at Auburn University
- Huntsville School of Business at the University of Alabama at Huntsville
- Stephens College of Business at the University of Montevallo
- College of Business and Public Affairs at Alabama A&M University
Not all of these colleges offer all their programs online, but many top schools do have at least some business degrees available for distance learning. For example, the Culverhouse College of Commerce offers online a bachelor's degree in general business as well as master's degrees in operations management and management. In addition, many undergraduate and graduate-level business courses are offered online which can reduce the amount of time traditional students must spend on campus.
For graduate students, Auburn University is one of several options for an online MBA in Alabama. Other Alabama business programs offering online classes may include private schools, fully online universities and community colleges.
What is the Business Career Outlook in Alabama?
Given the strong ranking by executives, it's not surprising many business occupations are expected to see significant growth in Alabama in the coming years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates the need for marketing specialists and management analysts will see particularly robust growth but many other jobs will also add numerous positions over the next few years.
Below is a closer look at some of the jobs that may await graduates of Alabama business schools.
| Position | Employment in Alabama (2014) | Average Salary in Alabama (2014) | Expected Job Growth Statewide (2012-2022) |
| General and Operations Managers | 26,480 | $120,640 | 12.9% |
| Financial Analysts | 1,310 | $85,590 | 13.2% |
| Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists | 2,610 | $60,180 | 26.5% |
| Human Resources Specialists | 4,670 | $57,970 | 3.8% |
| Financial Managers | 4,080 | $119,970 | 8.3% |
| Management Analysts | 4,690 | $93,320 | 21.1% |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (2014)
While the above figures are statewide, actual salaries may vary depending upon where in the state an individual is employed. For instance, general and operations managers had a statewide average income of $120,640 in 2014, but managers in specific metropolitan areas earned the following average incomes:
- Montgomery - $117,200
- Huntsville -- $134,190
- Birmingham -- $128,440
- Decatur - $105,880
- Mobile - $121,610
- Auburn - $100,590
What are Business Specializations in Alabama?
To excel in some occupations, students may need a specialized education. Fortunately, many Alabama business programs offer just that. Depending on the institution, students may be able to earn an undergraduate or graduate business degree in one of the following concentrations.
- Marketing
- Information technology management
- Management and leadership
- Finance
- Healthcare management
- Taxation
Some Alabama business schools also offer dual degree options for those who want to work within a specific sector. For example, the Collat School of Business at the University of Alabama at Birmingham offers a dual degree program that results in graduates earning both a MBA and a master's degree in health administration, a combination which could be ideal for those hoping to work as an executive in a health care company.
Opportunities to specialize exist after graduation as well. Business professionals can apply for industry certifications such as that of Certified Financial Planner, Certified Budget Analyst and Project Management Professional. These certifications are administered by a variety of industry groups and each has its own qualification criteria.
If you're ready to embark on a career in business, the first step is to request more information from Alabama business schools to find the perfect degree for your needs. Consider where you hope to work in the future and look for Alabama business programs that are designed with your goals in mind. Click on the schools of interest below and complete the simple form to be connected with a representative who can provide additional information and answer your questions.
Sources:
1. Long-term projections, Projections Central, http://www.projectionscentral.com/Projections/LongTerm
2. Occupational Employment Statistics, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Department of Labor, May 2014, http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_al.htm
3. Introduction to Online Learning, Culverhouse School of Commerce, http://culverhouse.ua.edu/academics/online
4. Alabama ranked among top states for business climate, Ryan Phillips, Birmingham Business Journal, November 2, 2015, http://www.bizjournals.com/birmingham/morning_call/2015/11/alabama-ranked-among-top-states-for-business.html
5. Peach State Three-peat, Mark Arend, November 2015, Site Selection Magazine, http://siteselection.com/issues/2015/nov/cover.cfm
6. Master of Business Administration Program, UAB Collat School of Business, https://www.uab.edu/business/home/degrees-certificates/mba