Administration and Management

If you’re the one who keeps the group project on track, loves solving problems, or dreams of running your own business, Administration and Management could be your path.

This area of interest is all about leading teams, organizing operations, and making strategic decisions that help businesses and organizations succeed. Whether you want to manage people, projects, or entire companies, you’ll gain the skills to turn ideas into action and goals into results.

An N A U professor teaches about hotel management.

What is Administration and Management?

Lead with purpose. Organize for impact. Administration and Management prepares you to thrive in the world of business, leadership, and organizational strategy. You’ll learn how to communicate clearly, manage people and resources, and analyze data to make smart, informed decisions. From small startups to global corporations and nonprofits to government agencies, this path opens the door to high-impact careers in nearly every industry.

What you'll study

You’ll build a strong foundation in business fundamentals and develop the leadership and organizational skills employers look for. Depending on your major, you might study:

  • Business strategy and operations
  • Human resource management
  • Organizational leadership
  • Marketing and communications
  • Financial management and accounting
  • Economic analysis and business law
  • Data analysis and decision-making
  • Project management and logistics fundamentals

At NAU, you’ll participate in interactive learning opportunities like real-world case studies, group projects, internships, and networking that will prepare you for life after graduation.

Career possibilities

Graduates in Administration and Management go on to become team leaders, department heads, and strategic thinkers in all kinds of settings. From tech to tourism and education to entertainment, these roles exist in every sector.

Administration and Management degrees offered at NAU

Looking to lead, organize, and make things happen? Explore NAU’s degrees in administration, management, and business leadership to find the right fit for your interests.

FAQs: Administration and Management majors

Is an Administration or Management degree flexible?

Yes! Administration and Management degrees can take you in a lot of directions—marketing, finance, operations, entrepreneurship, and more. It’s a strong foundation for almost any business career.

What’s the difference between Administration and Management?

They overlap a lot, but generally administration focuses more on planning and strategy, while management is about organizing teams and day-to-day operations.

Do I need to know what industry I want to work in?

No. You’ll build skills that transfer across industries, so whether you end up in sports, healthcare, tech, fashion, or the nonprofit sector, you’ll be ready to lead.

Will I get real-world experience before I graduate?

Yes! NAU offers internships, student-run businesses, case competitions, and networking events with local and national employers.

Are there clubs or activities for business students?

Absolutely. Join student organizations like NAU Investment Club, the Business Leadership Program, or Women in Business. They’re great for building skills and connections.

Can I start my own business with an Administration and Management degree?

Yes! With a degree focused in Administration and Management, you’ll learn the ins and outs of entrepreneurship, and NAU even offers support for student startups and business ideas.

Two students smiling at their graduation ceremony.

Find your home at NAU!

Looking for attainable and valuable degree programs? Searching for a community as unique as you are? Wishing for adventure? Explore all your passions at NAU.