nope the major doesn't involve much statistics. most unis require one marketing research subject. However, this subject should be split up into qualitative (e.g. focus groups) and quantitative areas, with about a 50/50 split. It is important to understand how the research works, as you will be using it as a brand manager, or even as a creative in an advertising agency.
brand management and promotions isn't sales based at all. Sales is sales-based.
As a brand manager, I will have to coordinate all activities necessary for sales to occur. For example, I would aid a new products development team in making a new Gilette razor with six razor blades. I would then talk to my marketing research (the stats people) team to analyse whether or not it will ultimately sell. Next, I would develop a marketing plan (i.e. set a pricing strategy, the target market, how much money should go to advertising, etc.) I would then start on working on an advertising strategy and develop a brief for my advertising agency, so that they can actually make the ads based on my brand ideas. Finally, I will prepare and train the sales staff to sell the products to Woolworths, Big W, Coles, corner stores, etc.
So, no, the typical jobs you will work on with a marketing major, won't be commission-based (although you will get bonuses based on performance, like in most other jobs, regardless of industry).
Accounting is more practical though, as the theory is quite basic. Also, accounting is 'popular' because it offers the most secure job opportunities (thousands of accountants are hired each year vs. only tens of marketers). Out of what is more boring, I would consider accounting, but in terms of actual practical knowledge, people studying accounting majors would tend to develop more, based on my observations.
I don't recall the exact working hours for HR, but i recall that they were longer than for most other occupations.