Best Online Business Management Degree Programs 2024
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Business makes the world go 'round — but how many of us really understand the nuts and bolts of running a company, launching an enterprise, or bringing a new product to market?
One of the best ways to learn is through a degree in business management. And you don't even have to set foot on campus to earn one. Some of the best programs out there are available totally online.
We've already rounded them up and ranked them for you. Find your fit and jump-start your career in business today.
"I pursued a bachelor's in business to be part of the decision-making process. I was able to use the skills I learned to help drive business forward. … This degree was able to open up many doors for my career and help me transcend upwards into management."
What Is a Business Management Degree?
What the Degree Is About
You'll learn the principles of business, management essentials, and many industry-relevant skills, like financial forecasting and operational planning.
How Long It Takes
You'll spend around 3-5 years earning the degree. Accelerated programs can take about 1.5 years but require a more intense workload.
Career Path
You'll have plenty of business-oriented fields to choose from, such as accounting, sales, corporate leadership, and financial analysis.
Keep in Mind
There are three common types of bachelor's degrees in business management:
- A bachelor of science (BS) in business management emphasizes math and analytics.
- A bachelor of arts (BA) in business management emphasizes soft skills from liberal arts courses.
- A bachelor of business administration (BBA) in management emphasizes organizational management.
The Best Schools for an Online Business Management Degree
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data
and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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University of Massachusetts, Amherst
Amherst, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $691
Out-of-State | $1,605
Credits to Graduate: 120
UMass Amherst's online management major offers two options: a general track and a human resource management concentration. In both cases, students engage with a rigorous core focused on accounting, finance, management, marketing, law, strategy, and other salient topics.
Learners in the generalist track can personalize their degrees through electives, which span a diverse set of subjects. The human resources track maintains a sharp, people-oriented focus on organizational management and change. Specialists and generalists both emerge with a strong set of leadership and managerial skills in demand among employers.
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $204
Out-of-State | $912
Credits to Graduate: 120
Appalachian State University's 100% online management program leads to a bachelor of science in business administration. Students can opt for a general track or earn a concentrated degree in innovation and entrepreneurship, human resources, or sustainable business.
All concentrations share a common core focused on accounting, economics, business law, finance, marketing, strategic management, and organizational behavior. Coursework also covers tools and techniques for recruiting and retaining the best available job-market talent.
The program has a convenient asynchronous delivery model. Thus, it appeals to both first-time undergraduates and working professionals seeking degree upgrades.
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 | $649
Credits to Graduate: 120
FIU's online bachelor of business administration in management begins by developing a strong organizational management foundation. Students build aplomb with operational management strategy, communication techniques and tools, finance, marketing, business law, and other key concepts. Coursework also includes deep coverage of quantitative analysis methods.
Admission requirements include high school and/or college transcripts, plus SAT or ACT scores. Waivers for high school transcripts and test scores apply to students with more than 60 transferable credits.
Simmons University
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $500
Out-of-State | $500
Credits to Graduate: 128
Boston-based Simmons University configures its online business and management program as a bachelor of science in business administration. Simmons is a women's college open to cisgender and transgender women, as well as nonbinary learners. These policies reflect the school's well-established commitment to embrace gender diversity and empower historically excluded learners.
Simmons' business program has particular appeal to transfer students. Applicants must have at least 17 transferable college credits, and learners can transfer up to 96 of the program's required 128 credits. Students who take full advantage of the policy can complete the remaining requirements in about one year.
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,396
Out-of-State | $1,396
Credits to Graduate: 120
Philadelphia-based Thomas Jefferson University’s online bachelor of science in business management is housed in the Kanbar College of Design, Engineering & Commerce, Continuing & Professional Studies department. In this degree-completion program, students take required coursework in general education, foundation requirements in financial and managerial accounting, business law, economic decision-making, and principles of management and marketing.
This accelerated program follows 8-week terms and allows applicants to transfer 99 credits from other institutions. Applicants are asked, but not required, to provide their educational background and a resume.
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $375
Out-of-State | $375
Credits to Graduate: 180
Oregon State University's rigorous online bachelor's degree in business administration offers an unusually thorough academic experience. OSU's business program covers 180 credits rather than the usual 120. Learners thus emerge with broader, deeper exposure to central concepts.
Students personalize their degrees by choosing one of eight available specializations. Non-generalist concentrations include digital marketing, family business, hospitality management, innovation and entrepreneurship, marketing, retail management, sports business, and supply chain management.
Degree-seekers also benefit from a strong set of support resources. These include free access to online tutors and career coaching.
John Brown University
Siloam Springs, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $984
Out-of-State | $984
Credits to Graduate: 120
JBU is a private Christian college on the Oklahoma border in Siloam Springs, Arkansas. JBU's online bachelor of business administration with a major in management requires coursework in strategic management, personal leadership, and management science.
Online business students develop management skills and knowledge and have access to all but four of the business major course offerings. Students can complete 12 of the required 49 core credits — in intercultural engagement, mathematics, and social and behavioral sciences — via credits for the major.
During their studies, JBU students can earn a certified associate in project management certification from the Project Management Institute or apply for JBU's 4+1 accelerated master's program.
Franciscan University of Steubenville
Steubenville, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $600
Out-of-State | $600
Credits to Graduate: 124
Franciscan University of Steubenville is a private Catholic university in Steubenville, Ohio. The university's mission is to "serve and rebuild Christ’s Church across the United States and around the world."
Franciscan's online bachelor’s degree in business management focuses on ethical decision-making in team and individual leadership and operational and process management. Students take required courses in business, accounting, and economics along with electives from the humanities and social and physical sciences.
All six majors in Franciscan's Department of Accounting, Business Administration, and Economics are supported by the Business Advisory Board, a council of executives from business in the Ohio Valley and beyond.
Walsh University
North Canton, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $596
Out-of-State | $596
Credits to Graduate: 120
Based in Troy, Michigan, Walsh University is a private college primarily focusing on business education and featuring professors with hands-on business experience. Ninety-five percent of Walsh faculty have real-world industry experience, and students can register year-round for any of the program's four 11-week semesters.
Students in Walsh's online bachelor of business administration in management complete coursework in human resource, operations, and project management along with market analysis, global business strategy, accounting, and communications. Students also complete a 3-credit capstone course in business strategy and policy. Career pathways for Walsh graduates include business operations, client relations and customer care, mid-level management, public administration, and purchasing.
University of Minnesota-Duluth
Duluth, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $442
Out-of-State | $442
Credits to Graduate: 120
With five regional campuses, the U of M is a land-grant institution with a mission to provide world-class education, groundbreaking research, and community-engaged outreach.
U of M's online bachelor of science in management students take a one-credit orientation in online learning alongside traditional courses in accounting, finance, professional development, business ethics, international business, human resources, and project management.
Online students can complete a three-credit internship or take an additional elective from Lean Six Sigma, business analytics, supervision and leadership, or logistics and supply chain management.
How We Rank Schools
In order to create this rankings list, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our 2023 College Choice and Admissions Survey.
To qualify for our ranking list, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each school is ranked based on a formula measuring:
- Affordability (30%)
- Student outcomes (30%)
- Reputation (20%)
- Diversity and social mobility (20%)
In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges. Read more about our rankings methodology.
Why Should You Get a Degree in Business Management?
Whether you want lots of job options, a wide variety of skills for diverse industries, or a running start up the career ladder, a bachelor's degree in business management can be a great first step.
"The business management degree equips students with critical skills that enable them to be successful in their careers. The numerous topic discussions, cases, and projects allow students to analyze and react to a variety of business issues in a variety of settings."
Benefits of a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management
- Qualify for higher-paying business careers
- Better impact and reach
- Access to diverse job opportunities
- Increase variety of marketable skills
- Improve your business acumen
- Boost your lifetime earning potential
- Gain business-related credibility
- Increase your chances of steady employment
Reasons to Get Your Business Management Degree Online
- Earn your degree without quitting your job
- Balance classes, work, and childcare
- Flexible class schedules
- Control the pace of your education
- Neurodivergent-friendly learning methods
- Ability to learn from anywhere
- Self-driven learning environment
- Well suited for career changers
"One main benefit for me was the ability to keep my job while going to school. Since I was a bit older, I didn't have the option to just stop working to go to school."
How Much Does an Online Business Management Degree Cost?
The average annual cost of one year of college at a public, four-year university was $9,700 in 2021-2022, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
You can save money on your degree or graduate faster in a few different ways:
-
Credit for prior learning
Credits for college-level experience and skills — including military experience, exam scores, certifications, and workplace training — can count toward your degree. -
Financial aid
Financial aid, such as scholarships for business majors or grants from state or federal governments and private organizations, can help lower the cost of your education. -
Transfer credits
Transfer credits for courses you've taken can speed up your time to graduation.
How Long Does an Online Bachelor's in Business Management Take?
You'll finish your degree quicker or slower depending on whether you're a full-time or part-time student.
A full-time student, taking a minimum of 15 credits per semester, will finish a bachelor's in business management in about four years. Full-time students may also qualify for accelerated programs that take three years or less.
A part-time student, taking fewer than 15 credits per semester, should finish in 5-6 years.
Average Length of a Bachelor's
in Business Management Program
3-4 years*
Total Course
Credits Required
120 credits*
How Much Money Will I Make With a Bachelor's in Business Management?
You may earn a salary between $69,000 and $77,000 after graduation. Higher or lower salaries depend on your degree type, the field you're in, and your experience level.
Average Base Salary by Type of Business Degree
BS in Business Management
$76,000
BA in Business Management
$77,000
BBA in Management
$75,000
"I was able to make a six-figure salary early on in my career, respective to my peers, and I have a bachelor's in business to thank."
What Jobs Can You Get With a Degree in Business Management?
Job versatility is a big upside of getting a business management degree. The scope of skills you learn can apply to all sorts of jobs and industries, from business consulting to small business management.
"I know business management majors who have gone on to lead research and development divisions even though they do not possess exceptional technological skills. These individuals understand the technology to a degree, but their real value comes in managing the people and issues of the division. That's the beauty of the business management degree: It allows for change and growth over a career."
Here are 10 popular jobs for bachelor's in business management grads, including how much they pay and how much they're expected to grow over the next decade:
| Job | Median Salary (May 2022) | Projected Job Growth Rate (2022-2032) |
|---|---|---|
| Marketing Manager | $138,730 | 6% |
| Sales Manager | $130,600 | 4% |
| Human Resources Manager | $130,000 | 5% |
| Administrative Services Manager | $101,870 | 5% |
| Financial Analyst | $96,220 | 8% |
| Management Analyst | $95,290 | 10% |
| Operations Research Analyst | $85,720 | 23% |
| Budget Analyst | $82,260 | 3% |
| Business Consultant | $80,010* | N/A |
| Market Research Analyst | $68,230 | 13% |
*Average salary, not median, accurate as of November 2023
Is a Bachelor's in Business Management Worth It? Grads Weigh In
The graduates we spoke to believe a business management degree is a practical way to reach your career goals. They also agreed flexibility is a big selling point for getting a degree online.
But they also think you should be mindful of why you want a business degree and whether online will be the right educational experience for you.
"I love online education. The business programs are not easy, but what makes them so great is that they are balanced in theory and practical application, they challenge you to improve your reasoning skills, and you are in control of when and how much you learn."
― Andrew Simmons, Chief of Staff and Head Instructional Designer, Dynamic Perspectives
"Did I need the degree for the career paths I've chosen? Perhaps not necessarily, as I find sometimes schools don't teach people to think, [they teach] people to do and follow directions. Which is all OK if you are in the corporate world. As an entrepreneur, you must think outside the box, be adaptable and resourceful. I find traveling and listening to podcasts taught me more than books from school did. I'd ask: What's the goal and desired outcome from this degree? What are you hoping to learn from it? Have you tried learning from business books and podcasts? Is more schooling really for you?"
― Alice Huang, Corporate Consultant and Co-Founder of Web3MTL
"When I started my online [management] degree, I had been working in middle management for just over 20 years. My experience had taught me a great deal, but I started to identify skills and knowledge I was missing that were necessary to move to the next level. The best way to gain those skills and master that knowledge was through formal education at the degree level."
― Robin Day, National Director of Academics, Herzing College
"[A business] degree can open up many doors in the future and will allow you to be part of the decision-making process. I believe that I was able to ascend to director and vice president early in my career due to the skills I learned from this degree. I would highly recommend this degree as a stepping stone for your career."
― Andrew Lokenauth, Finance Executive and Personal Finance Expert
"My answer is yes, especially the online route. I didn't go to college right out of high school like most people. Instead, I got my online business management degree a few years ago from American Public University. I did this solely so I could get a promotion and pay raise."
― Todd Ramlin, Manager, Cable Compare
Frequently Asked Questions About a Bachelor's in Business Management
What is the highest-paying job with a business management degree?
Marketing managers, whose median annual salary is $138,730, is one of the highest-paying jobs you can get with a business management degree. Job growth for marketing managers is projected to increase by 6% from 2022-2032, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which is higher than the average of 3% across all occupations.
Does business management require a lot of math?
Yes. You'll definitely do math in business management courses, but the focus is usually on arithmetic and algebra, not higher-level concepts like calculus and trigonometry. You'll analyze things like budgeting, expenses, and profits to help you make managerial decisions on payroll, hiring, and layoffs. Statistical analysis, and familiarity with spreadsheets and charts, will be important job skills.
Is a business management degree a BS or a BA?
You can get a BA or a BS in business management. But there are key differences between the two degrees. A BA in business management emphasizes in-demand soft skills, such as communication, creativity, and critical thinking. In contrast, a BS in business management emphasizes math and analytical skills.
You can also get a BBA in management at some schools, which broadly focuses on organizational management.
What is a business management degree good for?
Every industry needs business professionals. A degree in business management builds skills that apply to many jobs. With this degree, you can also switch to different industries without changing your career path. For example, you could switch from budget analysis to the business consulting field using similar skills you learned from your degree program.
What topics are covered in business management?
You'll learn about many different subjects relating to your business management degree, including business theory, economics, and marketing. Other important topics include accounting, ethics, finance, and business law.
