Best Online International Business Programs

By
portrait of Staff Writers
Staff Writers
Read Full Bio

Writer

The staff writers for BestColleges collaborate to deliver unique, student-driven content on topics such as career development, college life, and college planning....
Updated on September 27, 2023
Edited by
portrait of Rebecca Long
Rebecca Long
Read Full Bio

Editor & Writer

Rebecca Long is a copy editor for BestColleges. She has nearly a decade of editorial experience, including writing and editing. As a freelance journalist, her work has been published in The Boston Globe, The Guardian, Slate, and others. She has also ...
Learn more about our editorial process

www.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.

Turn Your Dreams Into Reality

Take our quiz and we'll do the homework for you! Compare your school matches and apply to your top choice today.

Earning an online bachelor's degree in international business can be a smart professional move for students who want to use their business skills in global settings. Online international business programs include core business classes and specialized courses in international topics.

Program costs can vary widely, with public schools typically costing substantially less than private institutions. Online programs also tend to cost less, given that virtual learners can avoid campus-based fees such as facility usage, parking passes, and housing. First-time college students should expect to spend about four years completing this degree, while transfer students usually graduate in two years.

The career outlook for international business graduates remains positive, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS projects business and financial occupations will grow 8% between 2020 and 2030. Salaries can vary considerably based on job title, experience level, and location. Keep reading to learn about the top online colleges offering international business programs. Discover where this degree can lead and how much graduates can earn.

What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor's in International Business Program?

Completing an online bachelor's in international business program can provide enrollees with the training needed to work in many professional settings in both the U.S. and abroad. Students learn to maintain professionalism and cultivate skills in consultation and analysis, problem-solving, and strategic planning. Programs also often focus on the importance of cultural, religious, and political sensitivity when working internationally.

Some schools offer standalone international business programs, while others provide a general business degree with an international business concentration. In addition to general, core, and elective classes, many programs also require learners to complete an internship in order to build real-world skills before graduating. Some may also include capstone projects.

Whether studying online or in-person, students can build foundational skills in traditional business topics that appeal to hiring managers in multiple industries. Most programs confer BBA degrees and emphasize core business classes. Some may also require learners to complete several foreign language classes to enhance skills and hireability.

Popular Online International Business Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.

What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor's in International Business Program?

Cross-Cultural Management

When overseeing groups of individuals based in different parts of the world or when working in other countries, international business professionals must understand how to be sensitive to cultural differences. Factors such as traditions, value systems, and religion can all influence how to effectively communicate and motivate employees.

Global Social Entrepreneurship

This course teaches students how to create organizations focused on social good, with global implications. Students learn how to create social ventures that meet the world's needs in innovative ways.

International Management Consulting

Offered as a project-based course, international management consulting can help students learn how to develop business solutions and strategic initiatives for fictional clients. Students explore how to examine business data, create deliverables, and work as a team.

Global Business Strategy

With a focus on Asian and European markets, this course looks at how to analyze international competition, make use of competitive advantage, and understand global political and regulatory influences.

International Business Internship

Students can complete a study abroad experience to get a first-hand look at international business at work. Students often build skills in particular areas — like marketing, finance, and operations — and make valuable networking contacts.

What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor's in International Business Program?

Admission requirements for online bachelor's in international business programs typically vary by school, but the core components remain the same across the board. Some schools may also require components in addition to the ones listed below, such as an in-person or virtual interview.

Application

Today, most colleges and universities accept online applications, but students can often still send paper versions if they prefer. These documents ask for basic information about prospective degree-seekers, including their full name, address, age, and citizenship status. Applications can vary by school but typically include similar questions.

Test Scores

Although some colleges no longer require ACT or SAT scores — particularly because of the COVID-19 pandemic — others still use these standardized exams to help differentiate applicants. Students should consider if one test better matches their skills and prepare for that exam.

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation are an integral part of the application process, as they can help admission panels get a sense of how others see potential candidates. You should ask former or current teachers, managers, faith leaders, and other non-family mentors who can speak to your preparedness for higher education to write letters on your behalf. Give them plenty of notice to ensure they meet deadlines.

Essays

Essays provide students with the opportunity to talk about their unique experiences, how they plan to use their degree, and why they want to attend a particular school. These documents also help admission experts understand a student's ability to express their thoughts and interests in writing. Give yourself plenty of time to write your essay, as it can take a while to find the right topic if not provided with a prompt.

Official Transcripts

Official transcripts from high school and any previously attended colleges help universities ascertain a student's academic performance. If a learner plans to transfer to a four-year school after completing their associate degree at a community college, transcripts help schools determine which credits are transferable.

What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor's in International Business Degree?

Career Outlook

Jobs for graduates of online bachelor's in international business programs exist in many different industries and disciplines, making this an in-demand degree. That said, business consistently ranks among the most popular college majors, so graduates should expect a fair amount of competition when it comes time to find a job.

However, an online international business degree program can help students cultivate skills that can be applied in many industries, increasing hireability. Some graduates decide to go the government route, working in embassies or other international governmental agencies. Others may work in consulting for companies such as Deloitte or Booz Allen Hamilton that maintain international offices. Others may choose to work for international companies abroad.

See where an online bachelor's in international business can take you. Learn more about international business careers.

Career Paths

Financial Analyst

Financial analysts work with both individuals and companies to improve their financial standing. They review existing financial data and investments to see what works and what needs adjustment before making recommendations. They also create investment portfolios based on client needs and risk levels and prepare reports on how these investments perform over time.

Median Annual Salary (May 2020): $83,660

Management Analyst

Management analysts work both in-house and in consulting roles to help organizations improve their efficiency and effectiveness. They analyze existing data and interview employees to identify issues and make recommendations on improvements. They may also conduct reviews periodically to ensure changes are effective.

Median Annual Salary (May 2020): $87,660

General and Operations Manager

These multitasking professionals work in both public and private sector positions to ensure operations run smoothly. They may oversee numerous departments to manage both daily and long-term operations. Aside from overseeing direct reports, general and operations managers may also set policies and create strategic plans for other departments.

Median Annual Salary (May 2020): $103,650

Administrative Services and Facilities Manager

These professionals oversee the administrative functions of a company to ensure everything runs smoothly. They manage direct reports in clerical and administrative functions, hire new professionals in these departments, oversee training requirements, and set budgets. Administrative services and facilities managers also look for ways to improve administrative operations and make policy recommendations.

Median Annual Salary (May 2020): $98,890

Sales Manager

Sales managers oversee sales teams to ensure they are meeting targets, working toward higher goals, and maintaining favorable relationships with customers. They may also review sales data from previous quarters to set projections for the future and work with marketing to create campaigns to bring in new customers.

Median Annual Salary (May 2020): $132,290

International Business Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.

Continuing Education

After completing their online bachelor's in international business and gaining a few years of professional experience, some students may decide to pursue an advanced degree. Master's degrees can help professionals land senior roles and earn higher annual salaries.

Some students decide to complete an MBA in international business, while others may work toward a master's degree in another subject. Popular graduate programs of study include finance, human resources masters, and economics. Most of these programs take approximately two years to complete. Some students may also decide to graduate certificates.

How Do I Choose an Online Bachelor's in International Business Program?

Cost

Data collected by College Board shows that public four-year institutions charged an average of $10,740 in tuition and fees for in-state learners during the 2021-2022 academic year. Students attending private four-year universities paid an average of $38,070 in tuition and fees during the same period. Learners should ensure they understand the true cost of a bachelor's in international business and compare costs between campus-based and online programs.

Program Format

Many online bachelor's in international business programs give students several different options when it comes to how they learn. Some schools offer courses asynchronously to allow for maximum flexibility, while others prefer synchronous teaching. Students can also choose between part-time, full-time, and accelerated degree options.

Location

Students who select an online bachelor's in international business with no in-person components can theoretically pick a school on the other side of the country if they want. Those attending a program with campus-based requirements may want to pick a closer school, as should those who may want to visit campus from time to time.

Accreditation

Proper accreditation ensures programs meet student and employer needs and provide adequate support. In addition to attending a college or university that holds regional accreditation, students should also look for bachelor's in international business that hold programmatic accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

Student Support

Schools and programs that offer student support services can make the difference between a good and great college experience. Schools may help students access mentorship opportunities and internship opportunities. They sometimes also provide other services to help students acclimate to college life and succeed after graduation. Be sure to ask about online student services, as well.

Best Accredited Online Bachelor's in International Business Programs

Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team

Is your school on this list? Get the BestColleges ranking seal.

How We Rank Schools

At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.

Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that is best for you.

Best Online Bachelor's in International Business Programs

  1. Florida International University
    Location

    Miami, FL

    Tuition

    $9180

    FIU offers a fully online BBA in international business. The BBA's 120 credits explore core business topics such as marketing, financial management, and applied business statistics.

    The wide selection of electives provides students with degree customization options. Students can explore business operations in Africa, Asia, Latin America, or Europe. This bachelor's in international business also helps students acquire hands-on experience during an internship.

    Every undergraduate pairs up with a success coach who helps them through the program. Admission requires a minimum 2.5 GPA on pre-core courses.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost per Credit: $229 (in state); $346 (out of state)
    • Program Length: 4 years
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
    • Instruction Style: Asynchronous
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Public
    • Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
    • School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
  2. Minot State University
    Location

    Minot, ND

    Tuition

    $10153

    Students complete MSU's BS in international business on campus or online. The degree prepares learners for entry-level managerial positions. Students complete 120 credits that include general education courses.

    A business core develops competencies in areas such as accounting, marketing, and management. The major teaches students how to apply these and other skills to international business operations.

    Students can study and intern abroad. Enrollees enhance their knowledge by participating in student-run business organizations. All students pay in-state tuition. Admission to the online bachelor's in international business requires a minimum 2.75 high school GPA.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost per Credit: $340
    • Program Length: 4 years
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
    • Instruction Style: Asynchronous
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Public
    • Program Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education
    • School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  3. Lynn University
    Location

    Boca Raton, FL

    Located in Boca Raton, Lynn is a private school with strong online programs. The BS in international business management provides a fully online curriculum. Students prepare to work in a global environment by developing business skills such as project, operations, and global supply chain management.

    A business internship gives 150 hours of hands-on experience. Small classes in the bachelor's in international business facilitate one-on-one mentoring from faculty. Students pay the same tuition regardless of residency status. Three start terms provide enrollment flexibility. Admission requires no SAT or ACT scores.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost per Credit: $325
    • Program Length: 4 years
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
    • Instruction Style: Asynchronous
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Private
    • Program Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education
    • School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
  4. University of Houston-Downtown
    Location

    Houston, TX

    Tuition

    $7883

    UHD is part of a four-campus system. Students can pursue the BBA in international business online. The bachelor's in international business provides a well-rounded business education. Enrollees complete Texas' general education core prior to BBA admission. Degree-seekers may alternatively transfer credits from other accredited schools.

    The degree offers minors in finance, accounting, and management information systems. Students complete a study abroad requirement. Organizations such as Beta Gamma Sigma give students hands-on expertise in business practices. The school's Houston location opens up opportunities for internships and networking. Admission requires a minimum 2.25 GPA

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost per Credit: $246 (in state); $654 (out of state)
    • Program Length: 4 years
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
    • Degree Completion Program: Yes
    • Instruction Style: Asynchronous
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Public
    • Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
    • School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
  5. Oral Roberts University
    Location

    Tulsa, OK

    ORU is a Christian liberal arts college located in Oklahoma. The BS in international business and ministry blends a solid business foundation with international business training from a Christian perspective. Enrollees learn skills they can apply in the general marketplace or missions/ministry work.

    Participants explore financial accounting, quantitative analysis, and strategic management. All students learn techniques for international marketing. They can choose a minor in evangelism and missions or a related area. An internship component provides hands-on training in the workplace. Enrollees complete a senior paper that highlights lessons learned.

    All students pay the same per-credit tuition rate. Admission to the online bachelor's in international business requires a minimum 2.6 GPA.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost per Credit: $410
    • Program Length: 3.5-4 years
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
    • Instruction Style: Asynchronous
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Private
    • Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
    • School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  6. Northern State University
    Location

    Aberdeen, SD

    Tuition

    $15668

    NSU enrolls about 3,500 students from around the country. The South Dakota school offers an accredited BA in international business. The online degree requires general education coursework in multiple disciplines.

    Students learn how to perform business functions such as accounting and marketing. One course focuses on the use of spreadsheets for data analytics. Students can tailor the degree with a minor such as agribusiness or banking and financial services.

    The BS features a four-week study-abroad opportunity in Santiago, Chile. Enrollees pay the same tuition regardless of residency status. Admission to the bachelor's in international business requires a minimum 2.6 high school GPA.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost per Credit: $355
    • Program Length: 4 years
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
    • Instruction Style: Asynchronous
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Public
    • Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
    • School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  7. Lakeland University
    Location

    Plymouth, WI

    Situated in Wisconsin, Lakeland enrolls about 3,500 students on several campuses. The BA in business administration offers an international business emphasis. Students complete a core business curriculum in subjects such as financial accounting, business law, and management.

    The emphasis explores topics such as international economics and global financial markets. Students can also complete a study abroad or international field trip. They can earn credit for projects outside of the classroom. Enrollees pay the same tuition regardless of residency status. Admission to this bachelor's in international business requires a minimum 2.0 GPA.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost per Credit: $541
    • Program Length: 4 years
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 121 credits
    • Instruction Style: Asynchronous
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Private
    • School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  8. University of Minnesota-Crookston
    Location

    Crookston, MN

    Tuition

    $12135

    Part of a five-college system, UMC offers a BS in international business. Students explore key business functions from an international perspective. They can complete the 120-credit program entirely online.

    Students study a business core that includes management and financial accounting. The bachelor's in international business develops professionals competent in managerial finance, intercultural communication, and international business management.

    Participants complete a required study abroad or field experience. The school's location provides potential opportunities for companies in Minnesota and the Upper Midwest. All students pay the standard in-state tuition rate. Admission requires no SAT or ACT scores.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost per Credit: $419
    • Program Length: 4 years
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
    • Instruction Style: Asynchronous
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Public
    • Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
    • School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  9. St. Petersburg College
    Location

    Clearwater, FL

    Tuition

    $3477

    Located in Florida, SPC offers a degree completion BS in business administration. Students transfer an associate degree from SPC or another college. The 60-credit program explores topics such as corporate finance, operations management, and project management.

    A course focuses on sales, negotiating, and customer relationship management. Enrollees learn how to manage global HR. All students complete a strategic capstone project to culminate the bachelor's in international business. Eight-week courses help students finish the degree faster. Admission requires at least 60 credits with a minimum 2.0 GPA.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost per Credit: $123 (in state); $426 (out of state)
    • Program Length: 2-4 years
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
    • Degree Completion Program: Yes
    • Instruction Style: Asynchronous
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Public
    • School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
  10. Bellevue University
    Location

    Bellevue, NE

    A private college in Nebraska, BU offers a customizable BS in international business. Enrollees acquire general business knowledge. They tailor the degree with one of four emphases: marketing, management, finance, or supply chain logistics.

    The major explores topics such as finance, international consumer behavior, and transnational marketing strategies. Each emphasis requires nine credits. A student coach helps participants stay on track in their education.

    Students can transfer credits to complete the degree faster. Enrollees pay the same tuition regardless of residency status. Admission to the bachelor's in international business requires no SAT or ACT scores.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost per Credit: $430
    • Program Length: 2-4 years
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 127 credits
    • Instruction Style: Asynchronous
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Private
    • Program Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education
    • School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor's in International Business Programs

Is a bachelor's in international business worth it?

Completing an online bachelor's in international business can provide students with the credentials, skills, and knowledge needed to qualify for a wide variety of jobs in many industries. The BLS projects occupations within the business and financial operations sector to grow by 8% between 2020 and 2030, leading to the creation of more than 750,000 new jobs.

Graduates may choose to work for global companies based in the U.S. Others — particularly those with proficiency in a language besides English — may possess the qualifications necessary to work in another country.

What can I do with a bachelor's in international business?

As with general business degrees, an online bachelor's in international business can lead to many positions in different sectors and industries. Some graduates decide to focus their efforts on international marketing and public relations, while others feel drawn to positions focused on foreign exchange trades, economics, or finance.

Many international business programs allow learners to select a concentration in a traditional business focus such as marketing, human resources, or economics.

Are international business majors in demand?

Yes. Many different business careers are projected to see growth over the next decade according to the BLS. The organization projects positions for human resources specialists will grow by 10% between 2020 and 2030. Jobs for management analysts are projected to increase by 14% over the same period.

College students looking for a degree that can lead to job stability often gravitate toward business programs given their versatility. With more companies globalizing, understanding the international landscape can make a candidate more hireable.

How much money can I make with a bachelor's in international business?

Salaries for graduates of an online bachelor's in international business program can vary substantially based on the job they pursue, where they live, and how much experience they possess. The BLS reports that management analysts earned a median annual salary of $87,660 in May 2020. Event planners earned $51,560 during the same timeframe.

Students should review salaries for several different positions prior to graduating to get a sense of how much they can earn. Students hoping to land international positions should convert salaries to USD and look up living expenses where the employer is located.

What are the highest paying jobs with a bachelor's in international business?

Several positions requiring a bachelor's degree in international business or a related field pay six-figure salaries. According to the BLS, financial managers earned a median annual wage of $134,180 in May 2020. Advertising, promotions, and marketing managers made a median salary of $141,490 per year during the same time period, and human resources managers earned $121,220.

Find the Tools You Need to Get Started on Your Degree

Featured Image: arto_canon / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images

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.

Compare Your School Options

View the most relevant schools for your interests and compare them by tuition, programs, acceptance rate, and other factors important to finding your college home.