Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Management Degree Programs of 2023
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Business is a massive part of society, but how many of us understand it? Or know how to run a business? Or bring innovative ideas to the marketplace?
One way to become an expert is by getting a degree in business management. You'll learn the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the business world.
You don't have to go back to campus, either. Getting an online business management degree is a convenient and customizable option — especially if you work full-time.
Here's how to get started:
- Explore this page to decide whether an online business management degree is right for you.
- Check out the top-ranked online business management degree programs, as well as our sponsored programs.
- Request more information from schools you're interested in to find the best fit for your schedule, budget, and career goals.
“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.”
— Andrew Lokenauth, Finance Executive and Personal Finance Expert
What Is a Business Management Degree?
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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.
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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.
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Career Path: You'll have plenty of business-oriented fields to choose from, such as accounting, sales, corporate leadership, and financial analysis.
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Keep in Mind: There are three common types of a bachelor's in business management:
- Bachelor of science (BS) in business management emphasizes math and analytics.
- Bachelor of arts (BA) in business management emphasizes soft skills from liberal arts courses.
- Bachelor of business administration (BBA) in management emphasizes organizational management.
Read More:
- What Is Business Management? And Is It Right for You?
- Business Administration vs. Business Management: How Do They Differ?
Top Online Business Management Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Business Management Degree Programs
Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team
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University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Little Rock, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $280
Out of State | $280
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
UA Little Rock's online BBA features an optional emphasis in management, human resources management, or innovation and entrepreneurship. You may also opt to complete an internship or cooperative education experience to build the soft skills you need to launch your career.
Admission into UA Little Rock's College of Business requires a minimum 2.25 GPA and demonstrated prerequisites in college algebra and composition. The online business management degree follows a traditional schedule of 17-week courses.
Franklin University
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced 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's degree in business management covers project management, operations management, and strategic planning and finance. The transfer-friendly BS in applied management at Franklin allows you to apply up to 76% of previously earned credits toward the degree. You can graduate in as few as 19 months.
The degree culminates in a business management capstone requirement. You can choose from many entry dates and enroll in a variety of 6- or 12-week courses online. Franklin requires a high school diploma or accredited associate or bachelor's degree for admission.
Franciscan University of Steubenville
Steubenville, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $525
Out of State | $525
Credits to Graduate
124
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | International Accreditation Council for Business Education
Franciscan's online business management degree explores operations management, teambuilding, and ethical decision-making from a Catholic perspective. As a business student, you can join Franciscan's Christian Students in Free Enterprise group or Business Advisory Board.
You may choose to complete an internship during your senior year. Fransiscan's BS in management culminates in a strategic management capstone and a senior thesis. You must hold a high school diploma or the equivalent from an accredited school for admission.
City University of Seattle
Seattle, WA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced 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
CityU offers its business management degree online or in hybrid format at its Seattle campus. The BA in management includes a core component in managerial problem-solving. You may choose an emphasis in management, global supply chain management, or project management.
CityU's program has a rolling admissions policy and accepts applications throughout the year. You can use previous academic, military, or work or life experience as credit toward the degree and graduate in one year.
McKendree University
Lebanon, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $405
Out of State | $405
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
McK's online business management degree focuses on four primary management functions, which include organizing, planning, leading, and controlling. The program includes an internship, independent study component, and management seminar.
Each online course in McK's management BBA lasts for eight weeks. Aside from management, you can choose from other major study areas including sports management, human resources management, or entrepreneurship.
Texas A&M University-Commerce
Commerce, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $344
Out of State | $753
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
TAMUC's broad BBA helps you foster the skills you need for jobs in all management sectors. TAMUC's College of Business houses its own career services center to assist with job readiness. You can also opt for an internship to further develop your practical management skills.
The online BBA does not require a thesis or foreign language credits. As a business student, you can join TAMUC's Management Club to maximize your networking and leadership opportunities.
Fresno Pacific University
Fresno, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $530
Out of State | $530
Credits to Graduate
39
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission
FPU's online bachelor's degree in business management incorporates general education coursework with Christian principles and Bible studies. You'll complete the business management degree online as part of a cohort group of 18-22 students.
You need at least 60 transferable baccalaureate credits, a 2.4 GPA, and two years of college experience to enter the online BA in management at FPU. It takes an average of 24 months to finish the degree.
Ottawa University-Online
Ottawa, KS - 4 years
- Online
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $499
Out of State | $499
Credits to Graduate
59
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
OU's online BA in leadership and management offers a concentration in economics, finance, or human resources. The curriculum stresses both technical and soft skills, including accounting, marketing, project coordination, and communication.
Plus, Ottawa's online leadership and management program is offered in an accelerated format with classes starting every eight weeks. You can apply to OU by paying the application fee and submitting your official transcripts from all previously attended schools.
Hiram College
Hiram, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $315
Out of State | $315
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Hiram's online business management degree explores skills like managerial accounting, statistics, and organizational behavior. You must complete a management capstone to satisfy the core major course requirements of Hiram's undergraduate management program.
As a business student, you can join Hiram's Investment Club, which enables members to buy and sell stocks and make real-world investment decisions based on a collective strategy. Hiram maintains a holistic application review process and a test-optional admissions policy.
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $263
Out of State | $782
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
FAU's online business management program prepares you to plan strategically, identify goals, and use resources effectively. The BBA program at FAU builds a strong foundation in micro and macroeconomics, information systems, and human resources. You'll also study financial analytics and business law.
Keep in mind: FAU doesn't guarantee admission into any specific major. You must first meet the undergraduate admission requirements before speaking with an advisor about applying to the business school.
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.”
— Dr. John Upson, Associate Dean and Professor of Management, University of West Georgia's Richards College of Business
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.”
— Todd Ramlin, Manager, Cable Compare
Read More:
- Sounds Great! Show Me BestColleges' Sponsored Programs
- What Courses Do You Take in a Business Management Program?
How Much Does an Online Business Management Degree Cost?
The median annual cost for an online undergraduate business degree is $6,060, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
You can save money on your degree or graduate faster a few different ways:
- Credit for prior learning for college-level experience and skills — including military experience, exam scores, certifications, and workplace training — can count toward your degree.
- 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 for courses you've taken can speed up your time to graduation.
Read More: Find the Most Affordable Online Business Degree Programs
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. Some programs even last just 1.5 years!
A part-time student, taking fewer than 15 credits per semester, should finish in 5-6 years.
Keep in mind that being full time is best if you're ready to handle a heavier workload. Studying part time is more manageable if you have a job and many personal responsibilities.
Average Length of Bachelor's in Business Management Program
3-4 years (Full Time)
5-6 years (Part Time)
Total Course Credits Required
120 credits
(varies slightly depending on school and/or program)
How Much Money Will I Make With a Bachelor's in Business Management?
You may earn a salary between $67,000 and $74,000 after graduation. Higher or lower salaries depend on your degree type, the field you're in, and your experience level.
“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.”
— Andrew Lokenauth, Finance Executive and Personal Finance Expert
Read More:
- 10 Business Management Jobs That Pay Over $100K a Year
- How to Succeed in a Business Management Program: Essential Tips
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 consultant to small business manager.
“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.”
— Dr. John Upson, Associate Dean and Professor of Management, University of West Georgia's Richards College of Business
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 2021) | Job Growth Rate (2021-31) |
|---|---|---|
| Marketing Manager | $133,380 | 10% |
| Sales Manager | $127,490 | 5% |
| Human Resources Manager | $126,230 | 7% |
| Administrative Services Manager | $99,290 | 7% |
| Financial Analyst | $95,570 | 9% |
| Management Analyst | $93,000 | 11% |
| Operations Research Analyst | $82,360 | 23% |
| Budget Analyst | $79,940 | 3% |
| Business Consultant | $78,000 (accurate as of August 2022) | N/A |
| Market Research Analyst | $63,920 | 19% |
Read More:
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, 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, it teaches 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 your 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 a 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 $133,380, is one of the highest-paying jobs you can get with a business management degree. Job growth for marketing managers is projected to increase 10% from 2021-2031, according to the BLS, which is higher than the average of 5%.
Does business management require a lot of math?
Yes. You'll definitely do math in business management, 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 in business management 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 into 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.
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.
