Best Schools for Business Operations Managers in 2024

Essential Education to Become a Business Operations Manager

Becoming a Business Operations Manager is a career goal that requires a combination of education, experience, and skills. If you're aiming to step into this role, focusing on the right educational path is crucial. Here's what you need to know about the essential education required to enter the field of Business Operations Management.

Understanding the Role

First, understand that a Business Operations Manager plays a critical role in ensuring that a company's operations run smoothly and efficiently. They are responsible for overseeing various aspects of business operations, including project management, supply chain management, finance, and human resources. Given the breadth of this role, a comprehensive educational background is essential.

Required Degree Level

• Bachelor’s Degree: The minimum education requirement for becoming a Business Operations Manager is typically a bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field. This degree provides a solid foundation in business principles and practices.

Recommended Areas of Study or Concentration

To excel as a Business Operations Manager, consider concentrating on the following areas during your studies:

• Business Administration: Offers a broad understanding of business principles and practices, including management, finance, and marketing.
• Operations Management: Focuses on the processes involved in producing and delivering goods and services. Courses may cover topics such as supply chain management, logistics, and quality control.
• Project Management: Provides skills necessary for planning, executing, and closing projects. This concentration can be especially useful for managing specific initiatives within an organization.
• Finance: Understanding financial principles is crucial for making informed decisions that affect the company's bottom line.
• Human Resources Management: Since managing people is a significant part of the role, knowledge in HR practices can be beneficial.

Advanced Degrees and Certifications

While not always required, pursuing an advanced degree or professional certification can significantly enhance your qualifications:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA): An MBA with a concentration in operations management or a related area can provide advanced knowledge and skills that are highly valued in this role.
• Certifications: Professional certifications such as Certified Operations Manager (COM), Project Management Professional (PMP), or Six Sigma Certification can demonstrate specialized expertise and commitment to the field.

Continuous Learning

The field of business operations is constantly evolving due to technological advancements and changing market demands. As such, continuous learning through workshops, seminars, and online courses in emerging areas like digital transformation, data analytics, and sustainability in operations can keep your skills sharp and relevant.

By focusing on these educational paths and areas of concentration, you're setting yourself up for success as a Business Operations Manager. Remember, combining your education with practical experience through internships or relevant job roles will make you even more attractive to potential employers.

Business Operations Manager Education Resources

Professional Associations

Staying connected and informed within your industry is crucial. Here are some professional associations that can help you grow as a Business Operations Manager:

• Association for Operations Management (APICS)
• Institute for Supply Management (ISM)
• Project Management Institute (PMI)
• American Management Association (AMA)

Joining these associations can provide you with networking opportunities, professional development resources, and up-to-date industry insights.

Industry Publications

Keeping abreast of the latest trends and best practices in business operations is essential. These publications are invaluable resources:

• Harvard Business Review
  • Offers articles on management techniques, leadership, and organizational change.
• Bloomberg Businessweek
  • Provides insights on global business news and trends.
• Operations Management Magazine
  • Focuses specifically on the field of operations management.
• Supply Chain Management Review
  • Covers all aspects of supply chain management.

Reading these publications can help you stay informed about the industry's challenges and opportunities.

Educational Resources

Whether you're looking to refine your skills or starting from scratch, here are some educational resources to consider:

• Coursera
  • Offers courses like "Business Foundations" and "Operations Management" which are suitable for aspiring Business Operations Managers. Visit Coursera.
• edX
  • Provides access to courses from top universities on subjects relevant to business operations. Check out edX.
• Udemy
  • Features courses like "The Complete Business Plan Course" and "Operations Management: Supply Chains, Products, and Services." Explore more at Udemy.
• LinkedIn Learning
  • With a vast library of courses on project management, leadership, and business strategy, LinkedIn Learning is a valuable resource. Learn more at LinkedIn Learning.

Career.Guide

For a deep dive into becoming a Business Operations Manager, including career paths, salary expectations, and skill development tips, don't forget to explore Career.Guide. It's your one-stop-shop for career advice tailored to your professional journey in business operations.

By leveraging these resources, you can enhance your knowledge base, connect with like-minded professionals, and take your career as a Business Operations Manager to new heights.

Business Operations Manager Education FAQs

What degree do I need to become a Business Operations Manager?

To step into the role of a Business Operations Manager, you typically need at least a bachelor's degree in:

• Business Administration
• Finance
• Accounting
• Management
• Or a related field

Some employers might prefer candidates with a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) or a similar advanced degree, especially for more senior positions.

Are there specific courses I should focus on during my degree?

Yes, focusing on certain courses can give you a solid foundation for a career in business operations. Key areas include:

• Business Law and Ethics
• Financial Management
• Human Resources Management
• Operations Management
• Organizational Behavior
• Project Management
• Strategic Planning
• Supply Chain Management

Can I become a Business Operations Manager without a degree?

While it's more challenging, it's not impossible. Here’s how you can increase your chances:

• Gain extensive work experience in business operations or a related field.
• Pursue professional certifications relevant to business management and operations.
• Develop strong leadership and communication skills.
• Network within the industry to learn from experienced professionals.

What certifications will help me advance in my career?

Several certifications can bolster your resume and expertise as a Business Operations Manager, such as:

• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• Certified Business Operations Manager (CBOM)
• Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt
• Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)
• Certified Manager Certification (CM) from the Institute of Certified Professional Managers

How important is continuing education in this career path?

Continuing education is crucial for staying updated with the latest business strategies, technologies, and best practices. Consider the following options for ongoing learning:

• Workshops and seminars focused on business management and operations.
• Advanced degrees or certifications in specialized areas of interest.
• Online courses covering new software, methodologies, or business trends.

Do internships play a significant role in becoming a Business Operations Manager?

Absolutely. Internships provide practical experience, helping you to:

• Understand the day-to-day responsibilities of business operations.
• Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
• Build professional networks that can be valuable for future job opportunities.
• Enhance your resume with hands-on experience in the field.

Remember, every step you take towards educating yourself further not only enriches your understanding but also opens up new avenues for advancement in the dynamic field of business operations management.