E-Commerce Degree Program and Career Education

In the days before the Internet, businesses and their customers interacted mainly in person, over the phone, or through faxes. Today, customers can purchase goods from around the world without leaving their homes, and businesses can market their services and products to an international clientele. E-Commerce (an abbreviation of "electronic commerce") refers to the distribution, marketing, and sales of products or services over the Internet or other computer network systems.

E-Business (or electronic business) refers to more than just the sales of goods and services. It encompasses all business processes, from purchasing to processing orders to billing to customer service, all done electronically.

Individuals interested in a career in e-commerce or e-business should be interested in both business and technology. In addition to being Internet savvy, they should possess the characteristics of any business owner: they should be creative, hard-working, perseverant, and well-organized.

Education, Training and Degrees in E-Commerce

Careers in e-business and e-commerce generally feature the same requirements as careers in other businesses. That is to say, a bachelor's degree in business, commerce, finance, marketing, or accounting will suit anyone interested in a career in one of these fields. In addition, students would be advised to take additional courses in technology management, Web design, and Web development. Some universities now offer e-business degrees, which combine the studies of business administration, information technology, Web design, electronic marketing, human resources, and networking.

In addition to a bachelor's degree, some hiring managers may prefer individuals with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree.

Find more information about online Business degrees, certificates, and diplomas.

Explore Career Opportunities in E-Commerce

Companies such as Amazon have popularized and grown the sales of goods over the Internet, but industries such as finance, education, entertainment, and software services are beginning to show their own signs of growth and promise in the e-commerce and e-business fields. In addition, manufacturing companies are beginning to manage their international supply chains electronically.

Developing your own e-business or e-commerce site is similar to starting your own small business. (For details, see the section on Entrepreneurship and Small Business.) Begin by determining a basic concept, service, or product that you want to sell. Keep in mind that not all products are compatible with the Internet sales model. Once you've determined a product which is financially viable to sell over the Internet, secure a domain name and construct your Web site and e-mail systems. Obtain the proper funding, ensure that you have strong customer-service facilities set up, and begin marketing your product or service.


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