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E-Commerce/Electronic Commerce

Program Description

Just the Facts

E-Commerce/Electronic Commerce. A program that prepares individuals to plan, manage, supervise, and market electronic business operations, products, and services provided online via the Internet. Includes instruction in business administration, information technology, information resources management, web design, computer and Internet law and policy, computer privacy and security, e-trading, insurance, electronic marketing, investment capital planning, enterprise operations, personnel supervision, contracting, and product and service networking.

This program is available in these options:

  • Certificate / Diploma
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Graduate Certificate
  • Master's degree

High School Courses

See the high school courses recommended for programs in this career cluster:

See the high school courses recommended for programs in this pathway:



Additional Information

Commerce is the exchange of goods and services. When you add the "e" (which stands for electronic), it means that you are taking business to the Internet. If you have bought a song online or a book from a website, you've experienced e-commerce.

The Internet has brought global connectedness, giving students the opportunity to greatly expand their career choices. One of those choices is building a career centered around e-commerce. With large and small companies alike offering shoppers the chance to purchase online from their cell phones, the need for skilled e-commerce professionals to help business owners take advantage of this market is constantly growing.

In North America, e-commerce sales grew 13.9% in 2012, reaching $364.66 billion. Consumers shifted their spending to retail and travel websites rather than physical stores, thanks to lower prices, convenience, greater selection and detailed product information. Amazon.com is the leading e-retailer in the United States, with more than $74.45 billion in net sales in 2013.

“If you want to stay competitive in our ever-evolving consumer landscape, you better keep pace with what your customers want. These days, it’s all about mobility” says Sarah Bauer, of Navigator Multimedia Inc.

There are several options for those wishing to begin training as e-commerce professionals: Community and career colleges, technical and business schools, as well as colleges and universities. Training options include certificates, diplomas, bachelor's and master's degrees. Some universities offer an e-business or e-commerce specialization at the MBA level.

“The e-commerce realm is quite focused and hands-on. To succeed in e-commerce, you need to practice specific techniques, whether it’s SEO, analytics, or customer experience management. Students should like and be proficient at doing online research to stay abreast of what the latest trends are. Students should also have a liking for numbers and data. The entire online business world is moving towards analytics and data driven decision making” stated Axel Kuhn, an e-commerce instructor at the University of Toronto and owner of epath consulting.

Programs range in length from a few months to four years. Institutions offer different courses depending on their focus. Most programs will list the expected employment opportunities for their grads.


Links

Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to e-commerce programs, see: Computer Systems Design and Related Services

For more information related to e-commerce programs, see: Computer and Information System Managers

How E-Commerce Works
Learn the details

E-commerce Times
Read about developing trends

E-Commerce Guide
Stay up to date with news and reviews

Epath Consulting
Learn about training opportunities and best practices.

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OCAP believes that financial literacy and understanding the financial aid process are critical aspects of college planning and student success. OCAP staff who work with students, parents, educators and community partners in the areas of personal finance education, state and federal financial aid, and student loan management do not provide financial, investment, legal, and/or tax advice. This website and all information provided is for general educational purposes only, and is not intended to be construed as financial, investment, legal, and/or tax advice.