Top Online Business Degrees of 2024
Updated March 28, 2024
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Earning a business administration degree online can help you qualify for a variety of business careers. For example, graduates can pursue jobs in the business and finance sector, which is on the rise.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects overall employment in business and finance to grow faster than all occupations from 2022-2032. The median annual wage for the sector was $76,850 in May 2022, much higher than the median annual wage for all occupations, $46,310. Financial analysts, personal finance advisors, and management analysts earned over $90,000.
Most business and finance roles require at least a bachelor's degree. A bachelor's in business administration degree can be a flexible and effective way to gain vital business skills and credentials.
You can qualify for entry-level roles and study areas that interest you. Many online business administration degree programs offer different concentrations such as business, human resources (HR), sports, and healthcare management.
The following schools are among the nation's best online business administration degree programs.
Popular Online Business Administration Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
The Best Online Bachelor's in Business Administration Degrees
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Top Online Business Degrees of 2024
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $330
Out-of-State | $330
Credits to Graduate: 120
SNHU's BS in business administration offers a concentration in organizational leadership to help aspiring business leaders devise data-driven solutions to complex problems. This fully online program prepares you to pursue careers in sales, operations, human resources, or training and development.
Coursework covers leadership, business law, and managing organizational change. Each class lasts eight weeks. To apply, submit evidence of your high school diploma or GED certificate. If you have attended an accredited college, you may transfer up to 90 credits.
#2 Top Online Business Degrees of 2024
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT - 4 years
- Online
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Cost per Term:
In-State | $3,755
Out-of-State | $3,755
Courses to Graduate: 39
WGU's bachelor of science in business administration management can prepare you to pursue work as an entrepreneur or executive in manufacturing, finance, or healthcare, among other fields. This fully online degree requires change management, business simulation, and employment and labor law courses before culminating in a capstone project.
Most students take three years or less to complete the program. WGU reports that graduates see an average salary increase of $22,200 within two years of graduating and $29,200 within four years.
#3 Top Online Business Degrees of 2024
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $236
Out-of-State | $650
Credits to Graduate: 120
FIU's bachelor of business administration in management equips aspiring corporate leaders and professionals with the skills they need for strategic change management. This degree requires 60 lower-division credits and 60 upper-division credits. Students engage with courses like happiness at work, writing business plans, and executive skill development.
First-year applicants must submit transcripts, SAT/ACT or CLT scores, and transfer credits. A transfer applicant should hold a 2.5 GPA or better and have taken calculus for business.
#4 Top Online Business Degrees of 2024
Trine University
Fort Wayne, IN - 4 years
- Online
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $299
Out-of-State | $299
Credits to Graduate: 120
Trine's bachelor of science in business administration offers an online major in management to help graduates learn to lead in nonprofit, industrial, corporate, or small business settings. Courses last eight weeks and cover areas like business analytics, risk management, and designing operations. Trine also requires an internship.
To apply, you must submit your high school transcripts or scores from your GED exam with your application. You can apply up to 90 credits from transferable coursework, prior learning assessments, military experience, or exams.
#5 Top Online Business Degrees of 2024
Texas A&M University-Central Texas
Killeen, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $260
Out-of-State | $668
Credits to Graduate: 120
A&M-Central Texas' bachelor of business administration includes a marketing concentration to help you develop valuable customer relationships. As part of the program, you can pursue a nine-credit micro-credential in an area such as cybersecurity, supply chain analysis, or business analytics and intelligence.
Courses include consumer behavior, services marketing, and digital and internet marketing. To pursue this program, you need at least 30 transferable credits and a GPA of 2.0 or higher.
#6 Top Online Business Degrees of 2024
Eastern New Mexico University
Portales, NM - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $175
Out-of-State | $258
Credits to Graduate: 120
You can pursue one of six emphases in ENMU's bachelor of business administration, including hospitality management, personal financial planning, and applied economics and finance. The curriculum includes an international course, such as international management or international marketing, and an internship.
In this 100% online program, you'll watch recorded lectures and complete class participation assignments during class time and on your schedule. You can also take advantage of ENMU's counseling, library, and career services opportunities as an online student.
#7 Top Online Business Degrees of 2024
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Jacksonville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $105
Out-of-State | $219
Credits to Graduate: 120
FSCJ's bachelor of science in business administration can prepare you to pursue an advanced business degree and/or professional roles in lead operations, sales, or administrative services. The program offers four concentrations: general business, human resources, entrepreneurship, and marketing.
You may take business ethics, marketing fundamentals, and operational decision-making courses. FSCJ's degree is available in both online and hybrid formats. To apply, submit high school transcripts and applications and sign up for a testing appointment.
#8 Top Online Business Degrees of 2024
Indian River State College
Fort Pierce, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $104
Out-of-State | $391
Credits to Graduate: 120
IRSC's bachelor of science in business administration can prepare graduates to pursue careers as management analysts, human resources managers, and marketing specialists. Courses include effective career management, perspectives in leadership, and statistical methods for economics and business. The program concludes with an internship, capstone, or thesis.
IRSC accepts prior learning assessments, such as military service, standardized exams, and transferable credits. To apply to this fully online degree, complete the application, pay a fee, and follow the required onboarding steps.
#9 Top Online Business Degrees of 2024
Columbia International University
Columbia, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $445
Out-of-State | $445
Credits to Graduate: 120
With CIU's bachelor of science in business administration, you can sharpen your leadership and management skills for professional success in the modern marketplace. This fully online degree requires courses in cultural diversity, global issues in business, and working with teams. To graduate, you must also complete a business portfolio.
Admission requires a high school diploma or GED certificate. If you are transferring 12 or more credits, CIU recommends that you hold a GPA of 2.0 or higher.
#10 Top Online Business Degrees of 2024
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $433
Out-of-State | $950
Credits to Graduate: 120
OSU's bachelor of science in business administration can prepare you to pursue business, consulting, law, and public service careers. This fully online degree requires you to take courses in principles of data analytics, business data science technologies, and practical business and interpersonal skills. To graduate, you must earn a minimum GPA of 2.0.
For admission, submit your high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores. You may waive the test scores if you hold at least 24 transferable credits.
How We Chose These Schools
At TheBestSchools, we pride ourselves on our proprietary ranking methodology to help prospective students like you find the best fit. Our ranking system uses official government data to present schools without bias, taking into account key factors like academic quality, online offerings, and affordability.
Learn more about how our formula works on our ranking methodology page.
Benefits of Online Business Schools
-
Accessibility
Online programs make education more accessible, allowing students to enroll at schools across the country without moving closer to campus. This widens the options available for all enrollees, helping connect learners to programs with curricula and specializations that align with their career goals. -
Flexibility
Online programs often include asynchronous coursework, which does not require students to meet at set times. This delivery method typically includes less rigid schedules, offering additional flexibility for learners with family or career obligations. -
Cost
In addition to saving on costs like relocation and commuting, online programs can be less expensive than their on-campus counterparts in general. Distance learning schools may offer lower tuition rates, including in-state tuition for out-of-state students or more affordable online-only tuition. -
Quality Education
Online programs are increasingly common, typically sharing the same faculty and coursework as on-campus programs. Attending an accredited online school ensures students receive the same quality education as in-person learners.
Choosing an Accredited Online Business Degree Program
There are several factors to consider when choosing an online business administration degree. First, make sure the program comes from an accredited institution.
Institutional accreditation verifies that a school meets standards of academic excellence. Next, check that the program offers concentrations or coursework that match your career goals.
Also, make sure the learning format — synchronous or asynchronous — works for your schedule. Schools typically offer a variety of concentrations and enrollment options for online business administration degrees. You can learn more about common considerations for distance learners at the links below.
What to Expect From an Online Bachelor's in Business Administration Program
Students who earn online bachelor of business administration (BBA) degrees can find jobs in fields like marketing, accounting, and finance. Bachelor-level business administration degrees qualify graduates for entry-level jobs. Graduates interested in executive positions may need MBAs.
Online business degrees help students build business knowledge and skills. According to a 2020 Business Insider report, employers rank marketing, sales, and business analytics among the most desirable job skills. Business administration program enrollees develop expertise in these areas.
Each school's curriculum varies. Many business administration degrees include core coursework in accounting, marketing, and communication. Some programs offer concentrations in subfields like entrepreneurship, HR management, and international business.
The following lists explore common courses and specializations for students earning a business degree online.
Online Business Administration Curriculum
-
Business Ethics and Law
These courses explore legal and ethical issues of trade and commerce. Topics include limited liability companies, contract law, and international business. -
Leadership Theories and Application
Students in these classes examine the behaviors of successful leaders in business, finance, and management. They also develop their own philosophies of leadership. Coursework may use case studies to illustrate leadership theories. -
Accounting
Accounting courses train students to prepare and maintain financial reports, manage payroll, and provide basic bookkeeping services. Topics can include financial, management, corporate, or tax accounting. -
Economics
Economics coursework can cover macro- and microeconomics. Learners also explore business analytics, economic theory, and regulations. -
Marketing
Marketing classes explore practical and theoretical approaches to business marketing. Coursework covers advertising strategies, promotions development, social media marketing, consumer research, and analytics. -
Operations Management
Operations management courses cover topics such as supply chain management, project management, and quality compliance.
Online Bachelor of Business Degree Concentrations
Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship concentrations emphasize small business leadership, HR management, and financial accounting. They prepare students to build their own enterprises. Programs also explore creativity and innovation, venture capital, multicultural markets, and product planning. Many entrepreneurship concentrations require a practicum, which typically includes writing a business plan.
Information Systems
Information systems concentrations help students develop strong business and IT management skills. Courses often cover application development, software quality, database systems, technological collaboration, and electronic commerce. Students also build soft skills like teamwork, interpersonal relations, and project management.
Accounting
This concentration prepares students for accounting jobs. Courses explore advanced statistics, micro- and macroeconomics, and calculus. Learners study taxation, auditing, and cost management. Advanced roles in this field, including certified public accountant jobs, may require licensure.
HR Management
HR management concentrations usually begin with core coursework in business communications, managerial accounting, and contemporary management practices. Advanced coursework covers employment relations; social, regulatory, and ethical issues in business; negotiation and conflict management; and leadership and organizational behavior.
Finance
This concentration is ideal for students interested in financial management or investment analysis. Many programs have prerequisites in financial management. Coursework typically covers corporate finance, investment analysis, tax and regulatory environments, collection and disbursement, and fundraising. Graduates can pursue certified financial planner credentials.
Supply Chain Management
Concentrations in supply chain management are popular because of the globalization of business markets and practices. These programs focus on project management, supply chain analytics, and logistics management. Classes emphasize global sourcing and innovation, international aviation, and managerial economics.
Marketing
A marketing concentration can lead to positions in advertising, public relations, sales, or social media. Marketing bachelor's programs develop basic business skills in economics, statistics, and communications. They also explore modern consumer behaviors, brand management, market research, and advertising strategies.
International Business
International business concentrations are more common with the rise of a global, internet-driven economy. Specializations in this field build on core business concepts in leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork through a global framework. Classes explore international business finance, global ethical leadership, international trade and policy, and international supply chain management.
The Cost of an Online Business Degree
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average annual tuition and fees for an online bachelor's degree in business is $10,475. But costs can vary.
Factors like school prestige, public or private institution status, and student state residency can impact cost per credit. Some distance education programs charge lower tuition for online programs, which can make earning a business degree more affordable.
While on-campus enrollees must budget for expenses like relocation and commuting, online students can usually avoid these costs. However, distance learners should account for the price of internet access as well as required hardware and software.
You can pursue multiple financial aid options to finance a degree, including grants, scholarships, fellowships, and loans. We explore these terms below.
- Financial Aid: Financial aid refers to any funding source that helps pay for school.
- Scholarships: Scholarships refer to a kind of financial aid that students do not need to repay. Schools and organizations offer scholarships based on merit and financial need.
- Fellowships: Institutions and organizations offer fellowships, which also do not require repayment. Fellowships often include an agreement to exchange work for tuition remission and a stipend.
- Grants: Students also do not need to repay grants.. Grant recipients typically demonstrate financial need.
- Loans: Federal and private loans can help cover tuition costs. However, loans usually require repayment with interest.
How Much Can You Earn with an Online Business Administration Degree?
Online business degrees are versatile, preparing graduates for careers in fields like finance, accounting, sales, and analytics. These jobs are available across industries, including real estate, insurance, and public relations.
Below, we highlight some of the most popular careers for business graduates.
| Career | 2022 Median Pay |
|---|---|
| Accountants and Auditors | $78,000 |
| Advertising and Promotions Managers | $127,830 |
| Budget Analysts | $82,260 |
| Credit Analysts | $78,850 |
| Financial Examiners | $82,210 |
| Human Resources Specialists | $64,240 |
| Management Analysts | $95,290 |
| Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists | $68,230 |
| Personal Financial Advisors | $95,390 |
| Purchasing Managers | $131,350 |
| Sales Managers | $130,600 |
Interview with a Business Administration Professional
Alex Williams
Alex Williams, the CFO of FindThisBest, got his bachelor's in business administration from California State University - Fullerton in 2015. His specialization in BBA was accounting and finance, and he took his CFA level 1 exam in 2016. Currently, he's working as a CFO at an eCommerce company.
What was your favorite aspect of earning a bachelor's in business administration degree?
The degree is well diversified, no matter where you get it from. You get to read up on a whole bunch of case studies and courses throughout your four years that make you think logically and critically about decision-making.
BBA doesn't just teach you how to be a good employee or lead the next Fortune 500 company; it just opens doors for you to really pursue something you're good at. Luckily I was good with numbers and I enjoyed finance courses, which is why I opted for the ACF (accounting and finance) major.
What should students interested in this subject be good at?
One thing that students should really be good at is critical thinking. Courses within BBA aren't your typical math or science courses, where you can use a specific formula to answer a question. Rather, you'll be given open-ended questions, and you'll have to rationalize your answer. As long as you're good at thinking objectively and looking at the bigger picture, you're going to excel at this.
Are there any advantages to studying business administration online as opposed to in a traditional brick-and-mortar setting?
The advantage would definitely be that your assignments and projects will be more remote, and you'll have to work in teams to get the job done. This is truly how things work in the real world — even before the [COVID-19] pandemic struck. Therefore, this degree truly gives you a glimpse into the real world before you even step foot in it.
What makes business administration a versatile degree?
Its versatility stems from the fact that you're not limited to just one area of business. You get to study a whole variety — from supply chain management to data science — for decision-making. Over time, you'll find something you're good at and excel at it. At least, that was the case in my undergraduate degree.
Common Questions About Business Administration Degrees
What Is the Difference Between a BBA, BSBA, and BABA?
Students in online bachelor's programs in business administration can pursue three types of degrees: a BBA, a bachelor of science in business administration (BSBA), or a bachelor of arts in business administration (BABA).
A BBA program usually focuses on business and management principles, while BSBA programs emphasize technical skills like mathematics, statistics, and science. BABA programs balance business basics with general education courses. All three degrees can lead to successful business careers.
Is a Bachelor's in Business a Good Degree?
A bachelor's in business can help you find jobs with higher-than-average wages, signaling the possibility for a positive return on investment for this degree. Students can use their skills to become entrepreneurs or work for corporations.
What Is the Highest-Paying Business Job?
According to the BLS, purchasing and sales managers earn the highest salary rates among business professionals. In May 2022, purchasing managers earned $131,350 and sales managers earned $130,600.
What Is the Best Business Concentration?
The best business degree concentration depends on your career goals. Some specializations, like finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship, can have broad career applications across industries, while others - such as supply chain management - help prepare you for niche roles.
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