Careers

Top 7 Career Options in Commerce

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A Bachelor of Commerce degree offers a broad, general overview of the study of business. On this globally recognised business degree, you’ll undertake a thorough and rigorous study of the foundations of business theory and practice. Topics you’ll study include cutting-edge issues that are transforming the business landscape such as globalisation, rapid technological advances, and environmental sustainability.

Alongside developing these core specialisms, a Bachelor of Commerce degree allows you to specialise in the areas of business that interest you most, developing expertise that will set you up for a career in that area.You’ll also develop critical awareness of emerging trends in the business landscape while gaining valuable analytical and problem-solving skills through working on case studies, presentations, and business simulations.

The knowledge and skills you’ll gain on a Bachelor of Commerce degree will prepare you for a variety of career options in commerce, including finance, banking, accounting, auditing, and management. 

Why study a Bachelor of Commerce degree? 

A Bachelor of Commerce degree offers business training in a very wide range of subjects. Students will gain significant skills and knowledge of financial and commercial topics that will set them up for an equally wide range of jobs in commerce.

Here are just some of the reasons to study a Bachelor of Commerce degree:  

  • Career opportunities: Studying commerce is a great foundation for a wide variety of career opportunities in stable and rewarding professions such as finance, accounting, marketing, and management. 
  • Practical skills: A degree in commerce typically involves gaining practical, real-world skills that will be extremely relevant to working in the business world. These include skills such as financial analysis, marketing, and management techniques.  
  • Income potential: A Bachelor of Commerce degree can lead into many careers renowned for offering high salaries and the potential for earning a lucrative income, such as finance and accounting. 
  • Versatility: A Bachelor of Commerce degree offers a broad foundation in business-related subjects, equipping you with a versatile skill set that will benefit you across multiple industries and career paths. 

7 top careers in commerce 

Since commerce covers such a broad field, it can be confusing to understand what are the career options in commerce.

To help get you started, we’ve assessed the top jobs in commerce and compiled this list of careers:  

  • Finance: Finance professionals work in areas like investment banking and financial analysis, creating financial reports and making recommendations. A career in this area requires expertise in financial analysis, risk management, and strategic decision-making. 
  • Human Resources (HR): HR professionals oversee issues related to personnel within an organisation. This includes managing tasks like recruitment, employee relations, performance management, and training and development. A career in this area requires strong interpersonal skills and an understanding of labour laws. 
  • Taxation: Tax professionals specialise in tax planning, preparation, and compliance. They support individuals and businesses to manage their tax liabilities through checking and completing tax returns, auditing clients’ tax records, and explaining tax law to clients. 
  • Accounting: Accountants manage financial records and ensure regulatory compliance. Strong analytical skills and professional accreditations are essential. 
  • Business Management: Business managers oversee the daily operations of a business. This role requires strong leadership and organisational skills in order to ensure that a business runs efficiently, as well as overseeing an operational budget. Practical experience and soft skills are also vital for success. 
  • Banking: Banking plays a critical role in the economy by facilitating financial transactions, providing a safe place for individuals and businesses to deposit and manage funds, and offering essential financial services (such as loans and mortgages) which support economic growth and development. There are a wide range of career paths within this sector, ranging from trading stocks and shares to managing funds for clients to protecting banks from cyber attacks and other types of financial fraud. 
  • Entrepreneurship: Got an idea for a business that you want to start yourself? Entrepreneurs require creativity, resilience, an appetite for risk, and often depend on experience and mentorship to see success. A degree in commerce gives you the business knowledge that will benefit you in starting and running your own business.  

 Study Bachelor of Commerce at University College Dublin 

If you’re looking to start your career in commerce, then the Bachelor of Commerce at University College Dublin is a fantastic place to start. With over 100,000 business alumni around the globe and many leading organisations and alumni visiting the business school throughout the academic year, there are plenty of networking opportunities to forge industry connections.

 Other career-focused initiatives that will set you up for career options in commerce include industry insight days, internships, a mentoring programme, and a finance trip to London. The University College Dublin outcomes speak to the success of these initiatives, with 75% of graduates in employment and 20% in further study (Graduate Outcomes Report 2022).

The Bachelor of Commerce at University College Dublin also allows you to specialise in your area of interest through offering optional and elective modules each year in areas such as economics, statistics, and finance. The versatility of the BComm degree means that graduates can follow pathways into business sectors including accountancy, banking and finance, human resources management, information systems, management, and marketing.

The best route for international students to begin their studies in commerce is through studying the International Foundation Year in Business, Economics and Social Sciences. You can find out more about the entry requirements, take a look at the fees for studying this course at University College Dublin, scholarships available, also find out the relevant visa information for coming to study in Ireland.

FAQs 

How long does it take to complete a Bachelor of Commerce? 

A Bachelor of Commerce typically takes three years to complete, or longer (usually up to four years) if you elect to take an internship as part of your studies. International students may need to complete an International Foundation Year first, which involves an additional year of study. 

What are the benefits of studying commerce? 

Studying commerce offers a diverse range of career opportunities, equips you with essential financial knowledge, and provides globally relevant skills that can open doors to a world of professional and personal growth. 

Is a Bachelor of Commerce degree hard or easy? 

The difficulty of a Bachelor of Commerce degree can vary, but it offers a rewarding learning experience where dedication, strong study habits, and a genuine passion for the subject can lead to a successful and fulfilling career.