Best Online Business Administration Degrees
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- Business administration programs emphasize management and analytical skills.
- Programs offer concentrations in finance, entrepreneurship, marketing, and other fields.
- Business administration professionals earned a median salary of $76,570 per year in 2021.
- Online business administration programs offer flexibility and affordability.
Business administration is a popular major among undergraduate students for various reasons. First, it offers a versatile skill set applicable to numerous industries, making it an attractive choice for those seeking diverse career opportunities. Graduates can pursue careers in finance, marketing, human resources, operations management, and entrepreneurship. This degree program provides a solid foundation in areas such as accounting, economics, communication, and leadership, which employers highly value.
The potential salaries associated with business careers also contribute to the popularity of the major. Although wages vary depending on factors such as experience and industry, several roles stand out for their earning potential. For instance, management consultants, who provide strategic advice to organizations, can earn lucrative salaries. This high earning potential appeals to many students considering a business major.
Whether a business administration degree is right for you depends on your interests, strengths, and career goals. If you enjoy problem-solving and leadership and have an interest in the world of commerce, a business degree might be an excellent fit. Pursuing a business administration degree can even help you build the necessary knowledge and skills to work in managerial roles or start your own business.
This article provides rankings on accredited universities offering online business administration degrees, considering factors such as affordability, flexibility, and career outcomes to assist prospective students.
If you're considering an online business administration degree, here's what to do next:
- Explore this page to determine whether this path is the right choice for you.
- Check out the top-ranked online bachelor's in business administration programs as well as our sponsored programs.
- Request more information from schools you're interested in to find the best fit for you.
What Can You Do With a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration?
Considering a career in business administration? A business administration degree can help you get there.
You can find job opportunities in public, private, and nonprofit settings as a budget analyst, financial advisor, research analyst, and human resources specialist. This degree can also prepare you for a master's in business administration (MBA).
"With a degree in business administration, you have the opportunity to work in a variety of industries, including finance, marketing, and human resources, among others. This can help you earn a lot of money."
― Andrew Lokenauth, BBA, Finance and Accounting Executive
Featured Online Business Administration Degrees
Why Should I Get an Online Business Administration Degree?
A bachelor's in business administration is an excellent choice if you want to enter the business world with a practical and widely applicable degree.
A bachelor's degree in business administration meets the entry-level education requirement for business careers as a financial analyst, market research analyst, management consultant, or training specialist. Check out more benefits in the tables below.
"I highly recommend considering a degree in business administration. It provides the necessary skills to pursue job opportunities in virtually any industry, positioning you for a successful career path."
― Trysta Luhanga, BBA
Benefits of an Online Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration
-
Attend a top-ranked online program with a strong placement record without having to relocate. -
An online format makes it easier for students to work while pursuing their bachelor's degree. It also offers great flexibility, which can help parents and nontraditional learners balance their studies and personal schedule. -
Build a national network while also gaining experience through a finance internship in your local area. -
An online format may be more affordable with a strong financial aid package.
How Much Money Can I Make With a Business Administration Degree?
Median Annual Wage (2021)
Enrolling in a business administration degree program can pay off. Business majors work in many lucrative fields. The median annual salary for business and financial occupations was $76,570 in May 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This was significantly higher than the median salary for all occupations: $45,760.
And many business administration jobs offer a high potential for raises. For example, financial analysts earned a median wage of $95,570 in 2021. With experience, they can move up to become financial managers, who earned a median salary of $131,710 the same year, according to the BLS.
| Job Title | Median Salary (2021) |
|---|---|
| Finance Analyst | $95,570 |
| Project Management Specialist | $94,500 |
| Personal Financial Advisor | $94,170 |
| Management Analyst | $93,000 |
| Budget Analyst | $79,940 |
Is a Business Administration Degree Worth It?
What's the return on investment (ROI) on a business administration degree? With a median annual wage of over $76,000, business and financial careers are lucrative and can provide a solid ROI to your degree.
When weighing your degree options, consider factors like the total cost of the degree, salaries in your field and area, and your career interests. You can boost the degree's ROI by researching affordable business programs. Or you can pursue jobs in higher-paying fields like finance to increase your earning potential.
"A bachelor's in business administration is a worthwhile investment, as it can provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a wide range of career paths in the business world."
― Andrew Lokenauth, BBA, Finance and Accounting Executive
Best Online Bachelor's of Business Administration Programs 2023
Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team
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University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Little Rock, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $280
Out of State | $280
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
School Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
The BBA in management from University of Arkansas at Little Rock prepares you for various management roles. UA Little Rock's business administration program allows you to choose between an emphasis in management, human resources management, and innovation and entrepreneurship.
Courses run on a traditional 17-week format. To apply for the program, you need a 2.25 GPA. You must also have completed college algebra and an advanced composition course.
Franklin University
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $398
Out of State | $398
Credits to Graduate
124
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | International Accreditation Council for Business Education
Franklin University designed its BS in business administration for adult learners who need a flexible program. In Franklin's business administration program, you'll gain hands-on experience through simulations. You'll learn how to perform a strategic competitive analysis and develop a strategic implementation plan.
You must complete a capstone project, a research methods course, and a business ethics course to finish your degree. To apply, you must submit your high school and college transcripts.
Brenau University
Gainesville, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $718
Out of State | $718
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
School Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
The BBA in general business from Brenau University will prepare you for a career in management, sales, marketing, HR, or entrepreneurship. In Breanu's general business program, you'll strengthen your written and oral communication skills so you can be a more effective leader in business.
You can take online or in-person classes to complete your degree. Test scores are optional for admission to Brenau's undergraduate programs. You must submit transcripts with your application.
Lewis University
Romeoville, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Semester
In State | $18,796
Out of State | $18,796
Credits to Graduate
128
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
School Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
The BS in business administration from Lewis University prepares you to be a business leader with globalization and technology in mind. You'll learn how to manage people, processes, and resources. The program strengthens decision-making and team building skills.
You must complete an accreditation assessment exam as part of the program. To apply for LU's business administration program, you must submit your high school transcripts and ACT or SAT test scores. Letters of recommendation are optional.
City University of Seattle
Seattle, WA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online or Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $470
Out of State | $470
Credits to Graduate
180
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
The BS in business administration from City University of Seattle prepares you to become an analytical leader. You'll strengthen basic knowledge you can apply to various work settings. The degree also prepares you to continue your education in an MBA or DBA program.
For CityU's business administration program, you must choose an emphasis in either data analytics for business decision-making, management, or project management. To apply, submit your transcripts with your online application.
McKendree University
Lebanon, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online or In-person | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $405
Out of State | $405
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
School Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
The online bachelor of business administration degree from McKendree University allows you to explore accounting, business administration, and economics. You'll also learn about finance, management, and marketing.
Notable courses in McK's business administration program include international business, business ethics, and consumer behavior. You must earn at least a 2.25 major GPA to graduate from the program.
To apply, you must submit high school or GED transcripts. Standardized test scores and letters of recommendation are optional. Depending on your GPA, you may need to complete an admission interview.
Texas A & M University-Commerce
Commerce, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $351
Out of State | $759
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
The BBA in management from Texas A&M University-Commerce will strengthen your foundational business knowledge and teach opportunity recognition and value creation. TAMUC's business administration program does not require you to complete a thesis to graduate.
The school bases its admission requirements on completed high school coursework. You must either be in the top 30% of your graduating class or submit your standardized test scores.
Fresno Pacific University
Fresno, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $530
Out of State | $530
Credits to Graduate
39
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
School Accreditation | WASC Senior Colleges and University Commission
The BA in business management from Fresno Pacific University gives you a practical skill set for a variety of business operations. Each course encourages you to consider the question: What does it mean to do business ethically?
For admittance into FPU's business administration program, you need a minimum 2.4 GPA. You also need two years of postsecondary experience and at least six transferable undergraduate units. To gain acceptance to the program, you must also have a minimum 60 transferable undergrad units.
Utica College
Utica, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $400
Out of State | $400
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
School Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Utica University's BBA in business administration lets you explore different business subjects. You can complete elective requirements with courses in accounting, economics, management, and finance. You can even take a criminal justice elective.
To apply for Utica's business administration program, you'll need a completed application and a minimum 2.5 GPA for transfer credit or a minimum 3.0 high school GPA. You must also submit official transcripts from all colleges attended and official high school transcripts.
Ottawa University-Online
Ottawa, KS - 4 years
- Online
100% Online | Self Paced
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $499
Out of State | $499
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
The business administration program at Ottawa University-Online lets you enroll in up to three graduate level courses as an undergraduate. You can count these courses toward your master's with the business administration bridge option.
You can concentrate in actuarial science, economics, or educational business services. Other options include finance, healthcare management, and human resources.
To enroll in OU's business administration program, you need 2-3 years of full-time work experience. You must also submit a resume and personal essay with your application.
What Jobs Can You Get With a Business Administration Degree?
|
Personal Financial Advisor |
Logistician Management Analyst Market Research Analyst |
With a business administration degree, you can pursue opportunities in diverse fields. Business administration majors work as analysts, consultants, and managers. They specialize in areas like finance, human resources, and careers in marketing. You can also work in project management roles.
Outside of the typical career paths listed above, business administration graduates can become entrepreneurs who launch new businesses. You can also pursue administrative roles in healthcare, technology, or the public sector.
How Much Does an Online Business Administration Degree Cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in-state learners at public schools paid an average of $9,596 per year in tuition and fees during the 2021-2022 academic year. Those attending private institutions paid an average of $34,041.
You should understand the true cost of a program and the price differences between campus-based and online programs before making your choice.
Total Average Net Cost of Four Years of College | 2020-21
Public Institution
$56,000
Private Institution (Nonprofit)
$112,000
How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration Online?
An online bachelor's in business administration usually takes four years to complete for full-time students. If you're transferring credits from community colleges or four-year institutions, you can finish the required business classes in about two years. You can also look into accelerated online business programs if you want to earn your degree even faster.
Required Course Credits
120 credits*
Field Study Requirements (Y/N)
No
*Depending on your program and specialization
Everything Else You Need to Know About Business Administration Degrees
Is business administration a good major?
Business administration is a popular major that leads to in-demand careers in finance, human resources, and marketing. During a business administration degree program, you'll gain analytical and communication skills. You'll also learn management and leadership principles.
By specializing in an area like accounting, computer information systems, or healthcare, you'll prepare for a specialized career path after graduation. And many online business administration programs encourage majors to gain hands-on training through an internship in their local area.
What are the highest-paying jobs with a bachelor's in business administration?
The highest-paying business administration jobs include financial analyst, management analyst, and project management specialist. According to BLS data from May 2021, these careers all pay median salaries of over $90,000 per year.
With experience, business administration professionals can move into management roles. Professionals in management reported the highest median salaries of any field, topping $102,000 in 2021. A master's degree, such as an MBA, can also help professionals boost their earning potential.
What is business administration?
Business administration is a field that specializes in managing and administering organizations. Business administration majors learn how to manage projects and teams. They also study leadership principles and business analytics.
Successful business administration professionals blend hard skills with soft skills like communication and teamwork. A business administration degree trains you in key business tools and skills while also encouraging public speaking, writing, and interpersonal abilities.
