Best Online Business Management Degree Programs of 2025
An online degree in business management can prepare you for leadership roles across industries without ever having to leave the workforce.
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If you’re looking to enter the management field without leaving your current job, an online business management degree may be a good option. These degrees are often designed for working professionals, allowing you to fit your coursework around your busy schedule.
Moreover, business management programs can help you hone valuable skills, such as strategic thinking and problem solving. These skills are still highly valued by employers, even with the increased use of AI and other technologies.
If you need help choosing the right program for you, read on for our list of the best online business management programs based on factors such as affordability and student outcome.
Business Management Degree Highlights
- Management professionals earned a median annual wage of $122,090 as of May 2024.
- An online bachelor’s degree in business management usually costs around $10,000 per year.
- Business management degrees often take four years to complete, but you can graduate faster by enrolling in an accelerated program.
Source: BLS, BestColleges
Best Online Business Management Degrees
How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, 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 College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then 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.
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$5,742
$17,622
34%
56%
Why We Chose This School
SDSU's online BS in business administration combines traditional management essentials with contemporary issues and trends. This approach develops current, relevant, well-rounded perspectives.
The program has a global focus that emphasizes international viewpoints on marketing and management topics. The program's curriculum also covers key operational areas including digital marketing, finance, investment management, and human resources.
SDSU's acclaimed Fowler College of Business has been accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate School of Business since 1959.
Pros
- Graduate in as little as two years
- Asynchronous format
- Affordable tuition
Cons
- Degree completion program requiring transfer credits
- Out-of-state enrollment limitations
- No concentration options
$7,176
$19,140
90%
37,539
Public
Yes
$5,742
$17,622
San Diego, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$5,742
$17,622
34%
56%
$7,176
$19,140
90%
37,539
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
SDSU's online BS in business administration combines traditional management essentials with contemporary issues and trends. This approach develops current, relevant, well-rounded perspectives.
The program has a global focus that emphasizes international viewpoints on marketing and management topics. The program's curriculum also covers key operational areas including digital marketing, finance, investment management, and human resources.
SDSU's acclaimed Fowler College of Business has been accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate School of Business since 1959.
Pros
- Graduate in as little as two years
- Asynchronous format
- Affordable tuition
Cons
- Degree completion program requiring transfer credits
- Out-of-state enrollment limitations
- No concentration options
California State University-Fullerton
Fullerton, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$5,742
$17,622
87%
58%
Why We Chose This School
CSUF Extension's online BA in business administration is designed for working professionals seeking to take the next step. This career-focused, 100% online degree completion program uses a sequential cohort structure with acceleration options for high-performing students. We like the efficient flexibility of CSUF's learning model.
The program's courses cover core business topics from diverse cultural perspectives. This viewpoint prepares you to become a participant in the global business world.
Pros
- AACSB-accredited
- Graduate in three years or less
- 91% in-field employment rate
Cons
- 66+ transfer credits needed
- Extensive prerequisite requirements
- No concentration options
$7,176
$16,680
85%
41,962
Public
Yes
$5,742
$17,622
Fullerton, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$5,742
$17,622
87%
58%
$7,176
$16,680
85%
41,962
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
CSUF Extension's online BA in business administration is designed for working professionals seeking to take the next step. This career-focused, 100% online degree completion program uses a sequential cohort structure with acceleration options for high-performing students. We like the efficient flexibility of CSUF's learning model.
The program's courses cover core business topics from diverse cultural perspectives. This viewpoint prepares you to become a participant in the global business world.
Pros
- AACSB-accredited
- Graduate in three years or less
- 91% in-field employment rate
Cons
- 66+ transfer credits needed
- Extensive prerequisite requirements
- No concentration options
Florida International University
Miami, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$6,168
$18,566
59%
67%
Why We Chose This School
FIU Online's BBA in management balances business foundations with specialized management coursework and a diversity of elective options. The 100% online program focuses on planning and organizing, quantitative analysis, and leadership. FIU Online is fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate School of Business (AACSB).
The 120-credit program is divided into two phases: a pre-core preparatory sequence and a rigorous business and management core. We like how this structure builds strong foundations before fully immersing students in intensive business studies.
Pros
- Transfer-friendly program
- Affordable tuition
- Technical emphasis
Cons
- Limited curricular flexibility
- SAT/ACT requirements
- No concentration options
$911
$2,003
92%
54,085
Public
Yes
$6,168
$18,566
Miami, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$6,168
$18,566
59%
67%
$911
$2,003
92%
54,085
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
FIU Online's BBA in management balances business foundations with specialized management coursework and a diversity of elective options. The 100% online program focuses on planning and organizing, quantitative analysis, and leadership. FIU Online is fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate School of Business (AACSB).
The 120-credit program is divided into two phases: a pre-core preparatory sequence and a rigorous business and management core. We like how this structure builds strong foundations before fully immersing students in intensive business studies.
Pros
- Transfer-friendly program
- Affordable tuition
- Technical emphasis
Cons
- Limited curricular flexibility
- SAT/ACT requirements
- No concentration options
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Lowell, MA4 yearCampus + Online
$15,850
$34,676
85%
39%
Why We Chose This School
UML Online's BS in business administration cultivates strong analytical, leadership, and problem-solving skills in a flexible, 100% online learning environment. You can choose up to two specializations from a list of seven concentration tracks. You can transfer up to 90 credits, potentially reducing your graduation timeline to just one year.
Fully accredited by AACSB, the program delivers affordability. UML Online ranks among the most affordable online institutions in the U.S.
Pros
- Qualitative/quantitative balance
- Emphasis on business technologies
- No time limit on program completion
Cons
- Extensive liberal arts and non-major coursework requirements
- Limited human resources course options
$14,956
$27,030
82%
16,959
Public
Yes
$15,850
$34,676
Lowell, MA4 yearCampus + Online
$15,850
$34,676
85%
39%
$14,956
$27,030
82%
16,959
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
UML Online's BS in business administration cultivates strong analytical, leadership, and problem-solving skills in a flexible, 100% online learning environment. You can choose up to two specializations from a list of seven concentration tracks. You can transfer up to 90 credits, potentially reducing your graduation timeline to just one year.
Fully accredited by AACSB, the program delivers affordability. UML Online ranks among the most affordable online institutions in the U.S.
Pros
- Qualitative/quantitative balance
- Emphasis on business technologies
- No time limit on program completion
Cons
- Extensive liberal arts and non-major coursework requirements
- Limited human resources course options
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$4,242
$21,238
89%
56%
Why We Chose This School
App State Online's BSBA in management retains a strong focus on the strategic aspects of business leadership. Coursework emphasizes human resource management and how to align talent with organizational objectives.
The program has flexible accommodations for first-time students, transfer students, and working professionals. North Carolina residents also qualify for very low online tuition rates.
App State Online offers the program through its Walker College of Business, which has been continuously accredited by AACSB since 1976.
Pros
- Flexible transfer-friendly structure
- Faculty includes successful entrepreneurs
- Self-scheduled learning
Cons
- High out-of-state tuition
- Some courses may not be available online
- Limited concentration options in traditional areas
$4,839
$19,849
85%
21,253
Public
Yes
$4,242
$21,238
Boone, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$4,242
$21,238
89%
56%
$4,839
$19,849
85%
21,253
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
App State Online's BSBA in management retains a strong focus on the strategic aspects of business leadership. Coursework emphasizes human resource management and how to align talent with organizational objectives.
The program has flexible accommodations for first-time students, transfer students, and working professionals. North Carolina residents also qualify for very low online tuition rates.
App State Online offers the program through its Walker College of Business, which has been continuously accredited by AACSB since 1976.
Pros
- Flexible transfer-friendly structure
- Faculty includes successful entrepreneurs
- Self-scheduled learning
Cons
- High out-of-state tuition
- Some courses may not be available online
- Limited concentration options in traditional areas
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
Baton Rouge, LA4 yearCampus + Online
$8,038
$24,731
74%
48%
Why We Chose This School
LSU Online's BS in Business Administration combines rigorous academic standards with affordability. Students pay a total program cost of $39,000, including all fees. That total falls to $9,750 if you take full advantage of LSU's generous transfer credit policies.
The program offers versatility to its graduates. Students have gone on to succeed not only in business but also in fields including education, law, and medicine. The program is accredited by AACSB.
Pros
- 100% online format
- Flexible design for working professionals
- Large alumni network
Cons
- Limited acceleration options
- Test-optional policies only for high-performing applicants
- One available concentration (entrepreneurship)
$9,132
$9,132
84%
39,418
Public
Yes
$8,038
$24,731
Baton Rouge, LA4 yearCampus + Online
$8,038
$24,731
74%
48%
$9,132
$9,132
84%
39,418
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
LSU Online's BS in Business Administration combines rigorous academic standards with affordability. Students pay a total program cost of $39,000, including all fees. That total falls to $9,750 if you take full advantage of LSU's generous transfer credit policies.
The program offers versatility to its graduates. Students have gone on to succeed not only in business but also in fields including education, law, and medicine. The program is accredited by AACSB.
Pros
- 100% online format
- Flexible design for working professionals
- Large alumni network
Cons
- Limited acceleration options
- Test-optional policies only for high-performing applicants
- One available concentration (entrepreneurship)
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$6,099
$21,665
73%
68%
Why We Chose This School
FAU's online BBA in management takes a problem-solving approach to the challenges of the fast-paced, globalized modern business environment. The program has a strategic, policy-driven approach, as well as an emphasis on long-term thinking. These strengths prepare graduates to pursue a flexible variety of management-track business careers.
Students have the option of pursuing a BS designation by completing six additional credits in advanced mathematics. Both the BBA and BS programs offer concentrations in entrepreneurship and innovation or leadership and change management.
Pros
- Well-rounded curriculum
- Sharp focus on quantitative analysis skills
- Apply anytime
Cons
- Must earn 60 credits before entering the major
- Maximum of two pass attempts per course
- Limited withdrawals
$5,467
$16,695
84%
30,849
Public
Yes
$6,099
$21,665
Boca Raton, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$6,099
$21,665
73%
68%
$5,467
$16,695
84%
30,849
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
FAU's online BBA in management takes a problem-solving approach to the challenges of the fast-paced, globalized modern business environment. The program has a strategic, policy-driven approach, as well as an emphasis on long-term thinking. These strengths prepare graduates to pursue a flexible variety of management-track business careers.
Students have the option of pursuing a BS designation by completing six additional credits in advanced mathematics. Both the BBA and BS programs offer concentrations in entrepreneurship and innovation or leadership and change management.
Pros
- Well-rounded curriculum
- Sharp focus on quantitative analysis skills
- Apply anytime
Cons
- Must earn 60 credits before entering the major
- Maximum of two pass attempts per course
- Limited withdrawals
Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS4 yearCampus + Online
$9,964
$26,838
80%
49%
Why We Chose This School
K-State Online's bachelor's in business administration blends well-rounded business coursework with four practical concentration options. You can specialize in business analytics, human resource management, marketing, or operations and supply chain management.
K-State targets each specialization area with a unique curriculum. No matter which concentration you choose, you'll also gain extensive exposure to the fundamentals of accounting, finance, marketing, and management.
K-State Online welcomes transfer students. However, the school requires a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5.
Pros
- Customizable curriculum
- Flexible 100% online delivery
- AACSB-accredited
Cons
- Extensive non-major coursework requirements
- Not the cheapest tuition
- No non-transfer acceleration options
$10,294
$23,018
87%
19,745
Public
Yes
$9,964
$26,838
Manhattan, KS4 yearCampus + Online
$9,964
$26,838
80%
49%
$10,294
$23,018
87%
19,745
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
K-State Online's bachelor's in business administration blends well-rounded business coursework with four practical concentration options. You can specialize in business analytics, human resource management, marketing, or operations and supply chain management.
K-State targets each specialization area with a unique curriculum. No matter which concentration you choose, you'll also gain extensive exposure to the fundamentals of accounting, finance, marketing, and management.
K-State Online welcomes transfer students. However, the school requires a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5.
Pros
- Customizable curriculum
- Flexible 100% online delivery
- AACSB-accredited
Cons
- Extensive non-major coursework requirements
- Not the cheapest tuition
- No non-transfer acceleration options
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus
Stillwater, OK4 yearCampus + Online
$5,417
$20,937
71%
53%
Why We Chose This School
OSU Online's BSBA in management takes an approach that emphasizes not only strategic essentials, but also ethical leadership. This program is flexible and offers a well-rounded business curriculum.
As you progress, you'll have multiple paths for personalizing your learning. Open business electives account for 16 of the program's 120 credits, complementing a 61-credit core that tries to evenly divide general business and management coursework.
OSU's Spears School of Business offers this program and is accredited by AACSB.
Pros
- 24/7 coursework availability
- Block-rate tuition offers savings opportunities
- Supports accelerated learning
$4,208
$15,836
84%
26,008
Public
Yes
$5,417
$20,937
Stillwater, OK4 yearCampus + Online
$5,417
$20,937
71%
53%
$4,208
$15,836
84%
26,008
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
OSU Online's BSBA in management takes an approach that emphasizes not only strategic essentials, but also ethical leadership. This program is flexible and offers a well-rounded business curriculum.
As you progress, you'll have multiple paths for personalizing your learning. Open business electives account for 16 of the program's 120 credits, complementing a 61-credit core that tries to evenly divide general business and management coursework.
OSU's Spears School of Business offers this program and is accredited by AACSB.
Pros
- 24/7 coursework availability
- Block-rate tuition offers savings opportunities
- Supports accelerated learning
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR4 yearCampus + Online
$7,666
$26,690
72%
36%
Why We Chose This School
Offered through the acclaimed Sam M. Walton College of Business, U of A Online's BSBA in business emphasizes business fundamentals. You'll pay in-state tuition rates regardless of where you live, all while enjoying scheduling control with a flexible, 100% online format.
Your degree plan will feature many open electives, which you can fill with your choice of courses in accounting, business technology, economics, finance, marketing, management, and supply chain management.
Pros
- Accelerate with summer learning
- Built-in peer networking opportunities
- AACSB-accredited
Cons
- Extensive pre-major coursework emphasizes advanced mathematics
- Transfer credit restrictions on business and economics courses
$7,875
$21,420
86%
32,140
Public
Yes
$7,666
$26,690
Fayetteville, AR4 yearCampus + Online
$7,666
$26,690
72%
36%
$7,875
$21,420
86%
32,140
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Offered through the acclaimed Sam M. Walton College of Business, U of A Online's BSBA in business emphasizes business fundamentals. You'll pay in-state tuition rates regardless of where you live, all while enjoying scheduling control with a flexible, 100% online format.
Your degree plan will feature many open electives, which you can fill with your choice of courses in accounting, business technology, economics, finance, marketing, management, and supply chain management.
Pros
- Accelerate with summer learning
- Built-in peer networking opportunities
- AACSB-accredited
Cons
- Extensive pre-major coursework emphasizes advanced mathematics
- Transfer credit restrictions on business and economics courses
Why You Should Get a Business Management Degree
Learn High-Demand Skills: Many business management degrees incorporate STEM topics such as data analytics to prepare you for tech-focused workplaces.- Work Across Several Industries: You can learn core skills such as accounting, analytics, leadership, and finance, which can boost your resume regardless of the industry you aim to work in.
- Network With Peers: Some online programs incorporate collaborative, team-based learning and networking opportunities that can help you expand your professional network.
- Enhance Your Business Knowledge: As AI and other technologies continue to change the workplace, employers are increasingly seeking individuals who can think strategically and make data-driven decisions.
Benefits of Getting a Business Management Degree Online
- BestColleges’ 2024 Online Education Trends Report found that 97% of online business students and graduates would recommend online education to others.
- Additionally, 81% of those students said an online learning environment is equal to or better than learning on campus.
- Moreover, in another BestColleges survey, 64% of business students said their online classes included assignments they could use to explore future career options.
How to Choose the Best Business Management Program for You
When choosing a business management program, consider factors such as affordability, program length, accreditation, flexibility, and possible career paths.
Dr. Angélica S. Gutiérrez, an associate professor of management at Loyola Marymount University, says you should also consider the program’s modality. “Some programs are on-site only, others are online, and some may be a hybrid. One may be more suitable depending on learning preferences and scheduling availability.”
How Much Does a Bachelor’s in Business Management Cost?
Business Bachelor’s Degree, 2019-2020
Online
$10,476 Avg. Tuition & Fees
$5,928 Avg. Net Price
In-Person
$16,921 Avg. Tuition & Fees
$9,231 Avg. Net Price
Source: NCES PowerStats
Online degrees offer a more budget-friendly alternative to traditional, in-person programs.
For instance, the average annual cost for an on-campus business degree is approximately $17,000, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. And with financial aid, the average price is reduced to around $9,200.
On the other hand, an online bachelor’s degree in business usually costs around $10,500 per year, and grants and scholarships can reduce that figure to about $6,000.
That brings the net price for a four-year online business degree to about $24,000 with financial aid. This is $12,800 less than the $36,800 cost for an in-person program.
However, keep in mind that business degree prices can vary significantly by institution. Attending an elite M7 business school, for instance, will usually be much more expensive than getting your degree at a regional public institution.
You can cut down the cost of your degree by landing business scholarships, filling out the FAFSA, or transferring credits from prior college experience.
Find Financial Aid for Your Business Management Degree
How Long Does It Take to Get a Business Management Degree?
Typical # of Credits
120 Credits Credits
Typical Program Length
4 Years
A business management bachelor’s degree typically takes four years and 120 credits to complete, but that isn’t always the case.
If you previously attended a university or community college or if you already have an associate degree, you might be able to transfer your credits and cut down on the time it takes to get your degree.
While each college has its own transfer policy, credits for general education requirements are usually accepted.
Some schools offer business management programs in an accelerated format. Accelerated online degrees condense courses into shorter, more intensive sessions, allowing you to complete your degree requirements in less time.
Accreditation for Business Management Degrees
Accreditation is granted by independent organizations recognized by the US Department of Education that ensure business schools are teaching a relevant curriculum and students achieve positive outcomes.
Business schools generally hold institutional-level accreditation, but they can also hold programmatic accreditation for individual programs.
Programmatic accreditation is granted by professional organizations and highlights that a particular program meets established industry standards. This recognition can enhance your employment prospects after graduation.
Here are some of the accreditors to look for when researching business schools:
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs: The ACBSP accredits individual programs based on factors like student outcomes and faculty expertise.
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business: The AACSB accredits major business schools and also offers accounting accreditation.
- International Accreditation Council for Business Education: The IACBE looks at factors like student success and outcomes and university’s mission.
Ask an Expert: How Important Is Accreditation for Business Management?
“Accreditation is very important, and it is a factor that prospective students need to consider [when] selecting a degree program. It signals that the programs have met quality standards. Some employers will recognize only degrees from accredited programs.”
What Can You Do With a Business Management Degree?
A business management degree opens up job opportunities in several fast-growing fields.
The BLS predicts that management-related jobs, such as human resources manager and facilities manager, will experience faster than average growth. By 2033, both of these occupations are projected to grow by 6%, while the average growth rate for all occupations is 4%.
However, keep in mind that what you can do with a business management degree ultimately depends on your work experience. Don’t expect to step into a leadership role right out of college if you don’t have some real-world experience under your belt.
| Job | Median Annual Salary (May 2024) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Management Analyst | $101,190 | Identifies areas of inefficiency, implements cost-saving measures, and develops strategies to increase overall profitability |
| Human Resources Manager | $140,030 | Oversees activities such as hiring, recruitment, retention, and training |
| Administrative Services and Facilities Manager | $106,880 | Manages daily business operations, including personnel, resources, and workflows to achieve organizational goals. |
| Sales Manager | $138,060 | Manages sales teams, establishes objectives, and delivers results |
| Operations Research Analyst | $91,290 | Analyzes an organization’s functions to address problems and improve efficiency |
Source: BLS
Learn More About Business Management Jobs
Is a Business Management Degree Worth It?
A bachelor’s degree in business management can lead to a high-demand job with a salary well above the median salary for all occupations, which hovers at around $48,000. And, getting your degree online means you’ll have more flexibility to better balance your schedule.
Online business students we surveyed were optimistic: 94% said they think earning an online degree has had or will have a positive return on investment. Additionally, 64% of these students found their online classes to be career-focused, with assignments that helped them explore potential career paths.
Education Beyond a Bachelor’s Degree
If you want to keep studying after completing your bachelor’s in business management, consider enrolling in an MBA program. An MBA offers a deeper knowledge of business disciplines and opens doors to leadership roles and a higher salary.
MBAs generally offer a wide range of courses on subjects such as finance and management. However, some MBA programs offer concentrations that align with specific fields, such as healthcare management or marketing.
While MBAs have long been the gold standard of graduate business education, there are also specialized business master’s degrees in areas like project management that can also advance your career. Several business schools are also rolling out master’s in management programs tailored to younger professionals who don’t have prior leadership experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Business Management Degrees
A business management degree prepares students to lead organizations with a focus on business fundamentals, planning, and leadership. Business management degrees usually focus on giving students a well-rounded understanding of how businesses and teams work.
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