Business majors are the most popular degree for students in the United States, and for good reason. The major’s broad skillset, teaching the fundamentals of finance, economics, and accounting, is highly sought after for almost every type of career. The most in-demand business majors have the luxury of being able to find work in any industry, including those that come with a high salary.

Although the average salary for someone with a business major is lower than some other specialization majors, the upper echelon of the business world can carry a much higher wage. Top tier Chief Financial Officers (CFOs), Chief Operations Officers (COOs), Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), and other C-level executives are some of the highest paying options. In 2019, CFOs averaged a salary of $175,350 with a median bonus of $101,773. COOs earned an average of $243,857, and CEOs have the top spot with an average salary of $680,400.

These positions come with more responsibility than lower-level jobs, but also higher rewards. These high-paying execs often have tangled web of connections in the business world and having them on your team can be extremely beneficial.

However, these jobs take years of experience to get to and getting that in the first place can be difficult. Many international universities have leadership courses as part of their business major programs, which can give you a head start in understanding the philosophy and principles needed to be successful.

Additionally, to reach these positions, it helps to be a part of organizations like the Institute of Management Accountants, American Graphics Institute, or the Association for Corporate Growth. Joining these organizations gives you access to industry networks, and might help you land that once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Getting into business school is no easy task, but when you graduate, there are plenty of rewarding and high-paying jobs to be had. Having a business major opens a door to many opportunities, and those doors get bigger and more lucrative with experience. With hard work and dedication, it is possible to achieve your dream job and start earning top wages.