Ed Tech

Is a Business Degree Still Worth It in 2025? Here’s the Real Answer

— A business degree is definitely worth the money and time, even if experience is often valued higher.
By Emily WilsonPUBLISHED: October 17, 21:23UPDATED: October 17, 21:26 7120
Student exploring business degree options online in 2025

Considering a career in business in the near future? There’s a lot of opportunity in the business world and many different avenues you can explore. Anyone who might be considering a change in career or considers this to be the only career they want to pursue as they reach the end of high school might need to think about a business degree.

But is a business degree still worth its salt in 2025? This guide explains the evolving value that business education has in a skills-driven market and whether or not employers really care about acquiring business degrees over those that don’t have them.

The evolving value of business education in a skills-driven market

There is incredible value that comes with business education, and that is definitely worth thinking about before dismissing the idea of getting an education in this industry. The broad theoretical knowledge that can be acquired through degrees is undeniably a positive one and an influential part of acquiring a job in this sector.

Being able to focus on specific and demonstrable skills can be first acquired through knowledge learn at university, which is then applied in the real world.

There’s also a shift when it comes to rapid technological advancements, especially when it comes to AI. Knowledge gained through lessons in institutes like a university can be priceless. While there’s a lot to be gained from having skills within business already, acquiring a degree showcases determination and commitment.

What employers actually think about degrees vs. experience

So what do employees actually think about degrees vs. experience? Well, a lot of employers like candidates to have skills, but sometimes, in order to acquire those skills, you need to have shown proof of business knowledge through your education. 

They’re both important to have, so while degrees offer a foundational knowledge, skills are also helpful to have to show you’ve put that knowledge into practice.

What are employers looking for when hiring for business positions? Here are some of the things that are worth checking off your to-do list to stand the best chance of securing a job.

Work experience

Many employers see relevant work experience, internships, and even volunteer work as more important than a degree, as it proves a candidate can apply their knowledge effectively.

Proven skills

Candidates who have demonstrated success within past roles are those who are considered highly valuable. Skills that have been learned through experience can be compelling for recruiters, either with education or without.

Good work ethic

Beyond formal qualifications, employers will often look for positive attributes in a person, such as a good work ethic, for example. Maturity and a willingness to learn are also important skills to have.

An ideal blend of both education and experience 

Ideally, employers will look for candidates who have a strong mix of both education and experience. This is often what makes you the most desirable.

How degrees are evolving in the modern world

Degrees are certainly changing the way we do business in the modern world, and that includes the degrees themselves.

Degrees are more accessible than they’ve ever been before, with online courses readily available. If you’re after a business degree, you no longer need to be available in person for lessons.

There’s a growing emphasis on experience nowadays, but as mentioned before, the need for a degree is still an advantage and influence worth having. The importance of a degree often relies on the industry and the role itself.

While some roles and areas within business are non-negotiable for acquiring degrees, some businesses are looking to ease the specifics on qualifications to allow for more diversity and opportunities for employees from all backgrounds and walks of life.

How to choose a program that sets you apart

Looking to explore a business degree in 2025? Here are a few helpful tips to get yourself started:

  1. Start by aligning the course with your career goals

First and foremost, start by aligning the course with your career goals. What are you looking to achieve from the degree to get to where you want to be in terms of the job or career path in general?

It’s good to commit to a course that aligns with your career goals and that you’re going to give yourself the best opportunity of success in the field in which you enter.

  1. Specialized or generalist degree?

What about the degree itself? A generalist degree might be all that’s needed for a certain type of job or role, where a degree that’s specialized within a certain area might be necessary to get you that desired role specifically.

  1. Consider costs and do your research

You’ll want to consider the costs that come with a degree and what that means for your finances in the future. Research on what programs and courses are available is also handy to make sure the one that you pick is the right one in getting value for your investment.

It’s not something that you want to just commit to without thought or preparation.

  1. Look for programs that offer variety

Look for courses that offer practical experience in the form of work placements or internships. This is the best way of getting those all-important skills and experience that some employers will be looking for. Areas of speciality are good to have too, and might be useful when it comes to putting you ahead of others in the running.

  1. Be ready for the commitment 

Finally, make sure you’re ready for the commitment. This isn’t something that is an easy choice to make, especially as it requires a lot of financial and time investment. You want to be in the right frame of mind to take on a degree because it’s not something that you could just wing and hope for the best.

A business degree is definitely worth the money and time, even if experience is often valued higher. Use these tips to help choose the right course for you and your future career.

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Emily Wilson

Emily Wilson is a content strategist and writer with a passion for digital storytelling. She has a background in journalism and has worked with various media outlets, covering topics ranging from lifestyle to technology. When she’s not writing, Emily enjoys hiking, photography, and exploring new coffee shops.

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