Best Online Business Degrees of 2024
Updated January 19, 2024
Edited by
Earning a business administration degree online can help you qualify for a variety of business careers. For example, graduates can pursue jobs in finance or accounting. Graduates can also earn a master of business administration (MBA) to qualify for advanced and managerial roles.
2022 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reveals there are over 9.5 million business and finance professionals in the U.S. These workers earned a median annual wage of $86,080 in 2022. Top executives made even higher average wages: for example, chief executives made a median income of $100,090 that same year.
Online business programs offer concentrations like human resources (HR), sports, and healthcare management. Graduates can pursue corporate positions and entrepreneurship.
The following schools are among the nation's best online business degrees.
Featured Online Business Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Online Business Administration Program Rankings Summary
| Rank | School | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Southern New Hampshire University Manchester, NH |
$15,000 | $15,000 | 92% |
| #2 | Western Governors University Salt Lake City, UT |
$7,162 | $7,162 | Not provided |
| #3 | Florida International University Miami, FL |
$4,721 | $16,529 | 64% |
| #4 | Trine University-Regional/Non-Traditional Campuses Fort Wayne, IN |
$9,576 | $9,576 | 60% |
| #5 | Colorado State University-Global Campus Aurora, CO |
$8,400 | $8,400 | 96% |
| #6 | Texas A&M University-Central Texas Killeen, TX |
$6,593 | $16,385 | 96% |
| #7 | Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus Portales, NM |
$4,074 | $6,114 | 33% |
| #8 | University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham, AL |
$8,568 | $20,400 | 89% |
| #9 | National University San Diego, CA |
$13,320 | $13,320 | 55% |
| #10 | University of Maryland Global Campus Adelphi, MD |
$7,344 | $11,976 | Not provided |
The Best Online Bachelor's in Business Administration Degrees
We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Business Degrees of 2024
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
#2 Best Online Business Degrees of 2024
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT - 4 years
- Online
#3 Best Online Business Degrees of 2024
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
#4 Best Online Business Degrees of 2024
Trine University-Regional/Non-Traditional Campuses
Fort Wayne, IN - 4 years
- Online
#5 Best Online Business Degrees of 2024
Colorado State University-Global Campus
Aurora, CO - 4 years
- Online
#6 Best Online Business Degrees of 2024
Texas A&M University-Central Texas
Killeen, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
#7 Best Online Business Degrees of 2024
Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus
Portales, NM - 4 years
- Online + Campus
#8 Best Online Business Degrees of 2024
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
#9 Best Online Business Degrees of 2024
National University
San Diego, CA - 4 years
- Online
#10 Best Online Business Degrees of 2024
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, MD - 4 years
- Online
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.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
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Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
We thank you for your readership and trust.
Benefits of Online Business Schools
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Accessibility
Attending an on-campus program means learners must choose a school near them or else relocate. 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 savings on costs like relocation and commuting, online programs can be less expensive than their on-campus counterparts. 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 Online Bachelor's in Business Administration 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 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 ManagementHR 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
The tuition cost of a bachelor's in business administration can range from around $6,000 to over $65,000 per year. 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 does not require repayment. Schools and organizations offer scholarships based on merit and financial need.
- Fellowships: Institutions and organizations offer fellowship which also do not require repayment. Fellowships often include an agreement to exchange work for tuition remission and a stipend.
- Grants: Grants also do not require repayment. Recipients of grants typically demonstrate financial need.
- Loans: Federal and private loans can help cover tuition costs. However, loans usually require repayment with interest.
Business and Salary Outlook
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 |
| Buyers and Purchasing Agents | $75,120 |
| Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists | $67,780 |
| Credit Analysts | $78,850 |
| Financial Examiners | $82,210 |
| Fundraisers | $61,190 |
| Human Resources Specialists | $64,240 |
| Insurance Underwriters | $76,230 |
| Management Analysts | $95,290 |
| Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists | $68,230 |
| Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners | $52,560 |
| Personal Financial Advisors | $95,390 |
| Property Appraisers and Assessors | $61,560 |
| Purchasing Managers | $131,350 |
| Sales Managers | $130,600 |
| Tax Examiners | $57,950 |
| Training and Development Specialists | $63,080 |
Interview with an Expert
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 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 such 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 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).
BBA programs usually focus 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, advertising or sales managers earn the highest salary rates among business professionals. Purchasing managers and personal financial advisors also earn high salaries.
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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