As the scope of business continues to diversify, budding professionals in several sectors may want to consider taking campus-based or online college courses that teach boardroom basics.

In fact, some schools are beginning to integrate business teachings into masters degree programs that focus on other fields, such as biotechnology.

For example, an Alabama-based school recently began teaching business practices as part of its graduate-level program in biotechnology, the Birmingham Business Journal reports. As a consequence, individuals who complete this or similar courses of study may be able to apply their science skills to unconventional careers such as consulting.

These types of degree programs could prove essential to the continued success of many fields, as although the consulting industry is one of the fastest-growing and highest paying sectors today, there are very few college programs online or on campus that prepare students for consulting positions.

Government analysts say that career opportunities for consultants in the management, scientific and technical fields are slated to increase by 83 percent over the next eight years.