Business and Society | Career Centre

Are you intrigued by recent financial and economic developments and how law, media, social change and the recent calls for more pronounced ethical business shape today's socio-economic realities? Do you want to better understand the influence of business on society and that of society on business through economic, political and social viewpoints? Whether you are looking for a field that will prepare you for a career straight after school or see it as a stepping stone towards further education (graduate school, law school, professional qualifications or an MBA), majoring in Business and Society can open up a variety of doors. In addition, York students in their third year of the Business and Society program may be eligible to participate in the Business & Public Administration Internship Program (BPAIP).

Career Options in Business and Society

This list is not exhaustive but provides an idea of the options graduates have and what they have gone on to do. Some options are more directly associated with a Business and Society degree than others.

Author
Banker
Brand Strategist
Charity Administrator
Communications Consultant
Economic Policy Advisor
Economist
Entrepreneur
Event Planner
Fundraising Coordinator
Green Business Developer
Health Administrator
International Aid Worker
Investment Advisor
Investment Analyst
Journalist
Lawyer

Legislative Aide
Lobbyist
Logistics Specialist
Management Consultant
Marketing Director
Media Correspondent
Mediator
Non-Profit Administrator
Public Relations Representative
Political Advisor
Population Analyst
Public Policy Advisor
Researcher
Social Entrepreneur
Social Service Worker
Speech Writer

Some of these career choices may require additional education or preparation in the form of graduate studies, experiential education or professional formative courses and exams. For a more in-depth description of some of the careers mentioned above visit Career Cruising (login information can be found on the home page of the Career Centre's online system) or the National Occupational Classification website.

Skills Developed through a Business and Society Degree

A background in Business and Society ensures that you develop the skills and mindset to tackle many different professional challenges.

Core Skills

An understanding of macro and microeconomic principles and theory as they apply to the interaction of business and society
A grasp of modern economic history and a comprehension of developing concepts such as ethics in contemporary business as well as the impact of globalization on socioeconomic trends
A grasp of the social issues driving modern business and the way the “social economy” affects our traditional understanding of economic and business processes and social development
Comprehension of the necessary tools governments, institutions and populations require to successfully manage change in a rapidly evolving global market

Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills

The ability to present your thoughts clearly and intelligently in written statements and written opinion pieces
Deduction of information from various sources and the ability to concentrate on relevant resources
The ability to organize, understand and analyze sources of information and to apply novel forms of technology or new information to different professional settings and tasks
The capacity to critically analyze problems, think creatively and make sound decisions while considering different sides of an argument
The ability to explain complex ideas clearly to others and to apply complex theoretical concepts to everyday practice and professional dilemmas

Management and Teamwork

The ability to interpret and analyze information presented by peers and efficiently and constructively support or challenge their proposals, theories, ideas and reports in order to achieve a project’s intended and successful end result
Skills enabling you to work effectively in group situations, partaking in decision-making, leading and contributing in various capacities to the ultimate success of the team and task
The ability to debate, persuade, mediate and present your thoughts and opinions to others, as well as the capacity to recognize and incorporate other potential solutions or applications to given problems
The capability to identify priorities and proper courses of action, to plan the execution of tasks and to determine and delegate responsibilities to group members to most effectively carry out projects

Professional Associations and Organizations

Knowing the industry and how to excel in it after receiving a degree are key elements of future success. University study sets up the building blocks you will need to develop and enhance your understanding and knowledge in your career. Being part of a professional organization or network and gaining further insight through training are excellent ways of increasing your knowledge of the field.