Cheapest Online Business Administration Degrees of 2025
You don’t need to go into debt to get a business degree. Check out this guide to learn more about the cheapest online business degrees available.
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An affordable online business degree can help you in more ways than just lower tuition costs. It may also qualify you for high-paying roles, such as management analyst or operations specialties manager.
Additionally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the demand for these professionals will experience a faster growth rate between 2023 and 2033 compared to other occupations.
Beyond affordability and strong career prospects, online business administration degrees can provide a solid educational foundation that’s equivalent to traditional, in-person learning. In fact, our 2024 Online Education Trends Report found that over 80% of online business students and graduates think online programs are equal to or better than learning on campus.
Read to learn more about the cheapest online business degrees available and how they can help advance your career.
Business Administration Degree Highlights
- Some business administration programs may offer concentrations in subjects like global marketing or financial analysis.
- Core business administration courses can include accounting, business statistics, and managerial economics.
- General education classes in composition, the humanities, and the natural sciences help you develop transferable skills.
Cheapest Online Business Administration Degrees
How We Rank Schools
At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.
We use datasets from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools and our methodologies. This list is from 2025. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology.
California State University-Fullerton
Fullerton, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$5,742
$17,622
87%
58%
Why We Chose This School
CSUF's online BA in business administration offers a unique professional business concentration. This program, which is offered as a degree-completion option, requires applicants to have a minimum of 66 transferable credits from an accredited institution and a 2.5 GPA.
Tuition costs $500 per credit and newly admitted students join a cohort-based learning environment that encourages collaboration. Offered part time and covering 6-9 units per term, the degree program can be completed in three years.
Pros
- Lower-than-average tuition
- Unique concentration offered
- Free and discounted software
Cons
- Only offered part time
- Cohort-based, so less flexibility
- Fewer electives
$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's online BA in business administration offers a unique professional business concentration. This program, which is offered as a degree-completion option, requires applicants to have a minimum of 66 transferable credits from an accredited institution and a 2.5 GPA.
Tuition costs $500 per credit and newly admitted students join a cohort-based learning environment that encourages collaboration. Offered part time and covering 6-9 units per term, the degree program can be completed in three years.
Pros
- Lower-than-average tuition
- Unique concentration offered
- Free and discounted software
Cons
- Only offered part time
- Cohort-based, so less flexibility
- Fewer electives
Florida International University
Miami, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$6,168
$18,566
59%
67%
Why We Chose This School
FIU provides a fully online BBA in management designed to prepare graduates for leadership roles. With 120 credits, the program covers topics such as HR management, organizational behavior, and executive skill development.
Florida residents currently pay $206 per credit, while nonresidents pay $619 per credit. However, the school offers scholarships to online learners. Students with existing credits can transfer approved courses as long as they earned a GPA of 2.5 or higher.
Pros
- Low in-state tuition
- Transfer opportunities
- Well-regarded school
Cons
- Higher out-of-state tuition
- Only three start dates per year
$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 provides a fully online BBA in management designed to prepare graduates for leadership roles. With 120 credits, the program covers topics such as HR management, organizational behavior, and executive skill development.
Florida residents currently pay $206 per credit, while nonresidents pay $619 per credit. However, the school offers scholarships to online learners. Students with existing credits can transfer approved courses as long as they earned a GPA of 2.5 or higher.
Pros
- Low in-state tuition
- Transfer opportunities
- Well-regarded school
Cons
- Higher out-of-state tuition
- Only three start dates per year
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 requires students to complete a minimum of 120 credits and admits new learners every term. In addition to generalist studies, you can also choose to complete a concentration in leadership and change management skills.
Required courses include leading people and projects, negotiating in a globalized world, and leading change and development. All students receive access to an online BBA advisor to help them navigate everything from admissions to graduation.
Pros
- Applications accepted every term
- Access to online advisor
Cons
- Can only repeat courses twice
- Only one concentration offered
$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 requires students to complete a minimum of 120 credits and admits new learners every term. In addition to generalist studies, you can also choose to complete a concentration in leadership and change management skills.
Required courses include leading people and projects, negotiating in a globalized world, and leading change and development. All students receive access to an online BBA advisor to help them navigate everything from admissions to graduation.
Pros
- Applications accepted every term
- Access to online advisor
Cons
- Can only repeat courses twice
- Only one concentration offered
Lamar University
Beaumont, TX4 yearCampus + Online
$6,228
$16,020
84%
81%
Why We Chose This School
Lamar University's online BBA in management requires students to earn 120 credits. However, up to 90 of those credits may be transfered from another accredited institution. Classes last eight weeks and newly admitted learners can choose from six different start times each year.
Regardless of where they live, online students pay $314 per credit. Specialization courses include quality and productivity management, project management, and advanced organizational behavior. First-time and transfer applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.
Pros
- Six annual start dates
- Low tuition
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business-accredited
Cons
- Eight-week courses
- Fewer electives
$6,471
$13,815
59%
16,914
Public
Yes
$6,228
$16,020
Beaumont, TX4 yearCampus + Online
$6,228
$16,020
84%
81%
$6,471
$13,815
59%
16,914
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Lamar University's online BBA in management requires students to earn 120 credits. However, up to 90 of those credits may be transfered from another accredited institution. Classes last eight weeks and newly admitted learners can choose from six different start times each year.
Regardless of where they live, online students pay $314 per credit. Specialization courses include quality and productivity management, project management, and advanced organizational behavior. First-time and transfer applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.
Pros
- Six annual start dates
- Low tuition
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business-accredited
Cons
- Eight-week courses
- Fewer electives
University of Illinois Springfield
Springfield, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$9,645
$19,410
84%
83%
Why We Chose This School
UIS's online BBA degree is unique in that learners can choose from four concentrations: management, human resource management, economics, and comprehensive, which is a broad-based curriculum covering topics in marketing, finance, management, and operations management. Core topics include principles of operations, the legal environment of business, and business in developing countries.
Students aren't required to visit campus at any point during their degree program, but they do receive access to educational advisors, resources, and e-materials through the UIS learning portal. The online curriculum mirrors the on-campus course of study.
Pros
- No special admission requirements
- No required campus visits
- Requires internship
Cons
- Fewer concentrations offered online
$8,858
$16,408
81%
4,661
Public
Yes
$9,645
$19,410
Springfield, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$9,645
$19,410
84%
83%
$8,858
$16,408
81%
4,661
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
UIS's online BBA degree is unique in that learners can choose from four concentrations: management, human resource management, economics, and comprehensive, which is a broad-based curriculum covering topics in marketing, finance, management, and operations management. Core topics include principles of operations, the legal environment of business, and business in developing countries.
Students aren't required to visit campus at any point during their degree program, but they do receive access to educational advisors, resources, and e-materials through the UIS learning portal. The online curriculum mirrors the on-campus course of study.
Pros
- No special admission requirements
- No required campus visits
- Requires internship
Cons
- Fewer concentrations offered online
University of Illinois Chicago
Chicago, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$11,178
$26,200
79%
72%
Why We Chose This School
UIC's online BBA caters to transfer students who have already completed at least 60 credits in approved subjects from an accredited institution. Once admitted, learners complete an additional 60 credits in general business topics such as business communication, operations management, marketing, and managerial accounting.
Students have access to academic advising services, the business career center, and library services. UIC also helps students find suitable ebook options. To apply, you must complete an application and send in transcripts demonstrating a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
Pros
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business-accredited
- World-renowned faculty
- Asynchronous coursework
Cons
- Eight-week courses
- Not eligible for tuition waivers
$11,870
$24,738
78%
33,522
Public
Yes
$11,178
$26,200
Chicago, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$11,178
$26,200
79%
72%
$11,870
$24,738
78%
33,522
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
UIC's online BBA caters to transfer students who have already completed at least 60 credits in approved subjects from an accredited institution. Once admitted, learners complete an additional 60 credits in general business topics such as business communication, operations management, marketing, and managerial accounting.
Students have access to academic advising services, the business career center, and library services. UIC also helps students find suitable ebook options. To apply, you must complete an application and send in transcripts demonstrating a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
Pros
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business-accredited
- World-renowned faculty
- Asynchronous coursework
Cons
- Eight-week courses
- Not eligible for tuition waivers
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$5,742
$17,622
34%
56%
Why We Chose This School
Students can apply to SDSU's online BBA degree completion program if they have at least 60 transferable credits from an approved university. The program requires at least two years of study and offers classes asynchronously.
Once admitted, learners choose from fall or spring start dates and take 39 credits of business courses. These include management and organizational behaviors, finance fundamentals, and investments. Courses last between six and eight weeks and require 11-17 hours of class review and homework per week.
Pros
- Same curriculum taught on campus
- Asynchronous
- Degree completion
Cons
- Cannot accept students from all states
- No concentrations offered
$7,176
$19,140
90%
36,637
Public
Yes
$5,742
$17,622
San Diego, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$5,742
$17,622
34%
56%
$7,176
$19,140
90%
36,637
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Students can apply to SDSU's online BBA degree completion program if they have at least 60 transferable credits from an approved university. The program requires at least two years of study and offers classes asynchronously.
Once admitted, learners choose from fall or spring start dates and take 39 credits of business courses. These include management and organizational behaviors, finance fundamentals, and investments. Courses last between six and eight weeks and require 11-17 hours of class review and homework per week.
Pros
- Same curriculum taught on campus
- Asynchronous
- Degree completion
Cons
- Cannot accept students from all states
- No concentrations offered
Murray State University
Murray, KY4 yearCampus + Online
$9,708
$14,742
86%
49%
Why We Chose This School
Murray State provides an online BS in business as a degree completion program. The school also offers an AA degree that can be used as a gateway to start the BS program.
Once admitted, students in this program cover topics such as business ethics and environments, business statistics, and strategic management. Students can also decide to pursue an international business elective. This degree completion program requires students to earn 44 credits, and all classes are taught fully online.
Pros
- Multiple start dates
Cons
- Higher tuition for non-residents
$9,144
$9,144
76%
9,857
Public
Yes
$9,708
$14,742
Murray, KY4 yearCampus + Online
$9,708
$14,742
86%
49%
$9,144
$9,144
76%
9,857
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Murray State provides an online BS in business as a degree completion program. The school also offers an AA degree that can be used as a gateway to start the BS program.
Once admitted, students in this program cover topics such as business ethics and environments, business statistics, and strategic management. Students can also decide to pursue an international business elective. This degree completion program requires students to earn 44 credits, and all classes are taught fully online.
Pros
- Multiple start dates
Cons
- Higher tuition for non-residents
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$4,422
$19,582
90%
69%
Why We Chose This School
At UNC–Greensboro, students can earn an online BS in business administration with a business studies concentration. Courses are taught in seven-week blocks in an asynchronous format, making the program a good option for working students.
Interested learners can attend an online information session to learn more or ask questions. The degree consists of 120 credits, and core courses include economic and business statistics, financial accounting, and information systems for decision-making.
Pros
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business-accredited
- Exchange programs in 26 countries
- Student business clubs
Cons
- Internship required
- Higher tuition for nonresidents
$5,219
$18,937
76%
17,743
Public
Yes
$4,422
$19,582
Greensboro, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$4,422
$19,582
90%
69%
$5,219
$18,937
76%
17,743
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
At UNC–Greensboro, students can earn an online BS in business administration with a business studies concentration. Courses are taught in seven-week blocks in an asynchronous format, making the program a good option for working students.
Interested learners can attend an online information session to learn more or ask questions. The degree consists of 120 credits, and core courses include economic and business statistics, financial accounting, and information systems for decision-making.
Pros
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business-accredited
- Exchange programs in 26 countries
- Student business clubs
Cons
- Internship required
- Higher tuition for nonresidents
Wayne State College
Wayne, NE2 yearCampus + Online
$5,760
$5,760
100%
42%
Why We Chose This School
Available to both first-time and transfer students, Wayne State's online business management degree is offered as a BS or a BA. Regardless of residency, online students pay $309 per credit. The department also provides several scholarships that online students can apply for.
Core topics covered include legal environments of business, business ethics, and management theory and practice. Learners can also complete a management concentration. The department holds accreditation through the International Accreditation Council for Business Education.
Pros
- 93% of recent grads are employed or in grad school
- Same tuition for residents and nonresidents
Cons
- Only one concentration
- Smaller school
$4,185
$8,370
73%
4,807
Public
Yes
$5,760
$5,760
Wayne, NE2 yearCampus + Online
$5,760
$5,760
100%
42%
$4,185
$8,370
73%
4,807
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Available to both first-time and transfer students, Wayne State's online business management degree is offered as a BS or a BA. Regardless of residency, online students pay $309 per credit. The department also provides several scholarships that online students can apply for.
Core topics covered include legal environments of business, business ethics, and management theory and practice. Learners can also complete a management concentration. The department holds accreditation through the International Accreditation Council for Business Education.
Pros
- 93% of recent grads are employed or in grad school
- Same tuition for residents and nonresidents
Cons
- Only one concentration
- Smaller school
Why You Should Get a Degree in Business Administration
Develop Leadership Skills:A bachelor’s in business administration helps you develop the leadership skills mid- and senior-level managers need to lead teams and organizations.- Explore Different Career Paths:A bachelor’s degree in business administration opens up many career paths in different fields, such as finance, marketing, and human resources.
- Advance Your Education: A business administration degree can lead to an MBA or other specialized master’s programs, opening doors to high-level management and executive roles and increasing your earning potential.
- Become an Entrepreneur: Some graduates leverage the knowledge they gain to launch their own businesses.
Benefits of Getting a Business Administration Degree Online
- According to our 2024 Online Education Trends Report, over 95% of online college students recommend online education to potential degree-seekers.
- Over 50% of full-time online learners work full or part time while in school.
- Over half of students report their online business degree features a career-aligned curriculum and provides opportunities to network with potential employers.
- Nearly 95% of learners pursuing an online degree in business administration feel confident their education will result in a positive return on investment.
How to Choose the Best Business Administration Program for You
When comparing the cheapest online business degrees, you should consider more than cost. Program length and accreditation should also impact your decision.
Dr. Angélica S. Gutiérrez, an associate professor of management at Loyola Marymount University, also recommends thinking about your career goals and finding a business program that offers courses in that area.
“If you are interested in AI, for example, then it will be important to research and select a business program that will provide a solid foundation in areas such as data analytics, computer science, and mathematics,” she says.
How Much Does a Bachelor’s in Business Administration 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
Based on data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), you can save just over 30% on tuition and fees by studying online. This substantial savings could lower or even eliminate the need for student loans.
Also, keep in mind that you may save even more money beyond tuition and fees if you enroll in an online program. Online students don’t have to pay for on-campus housing, transportation to campus, or meal plans, for example.
Find Financial Aid for Your Degree
How Long Does It Take to Get a Business Administration Degree?
Typical # of Credits
120 Credits
Typical Program Length
4 Years
Like other bachelor’s degrees, online business degrees require about 120 credits to complete. However, make sure to check program websites while researching for the latest information on credit requirements.
You can graduate sooner if you took transfer credits from previous college experience, study during summer, or receive credit for work experience.
Accreditation for a Business Administration Degree
Top bachelor of business administration programs usually hold programmatic accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
This organization grants accreditation to programs with a rigorous, career-aligned curriculum. To determine this, examiners review programs based on factors such as faculty resources, teaching effectiveness, and scholarship impact.
Besides programmatic accreditation, institutional accreditation should also guide your college search. Degrees from schools lacking proper accreditation may not be considered valid by employers and graduate programs.
Ask an Expert: How Important Is Accreditation for Business Administration Programs?
“Accreditation is very important and it is a factor that prospective students need to consider in selecting a degree program. It signals that the programs have met quality standards. Some employers will recognize only degrees from accredited programs.”
―Angélica S. Gutiérrez, Associate Professor at Loyola Marymount University
What Can You Do With a Business Administration Degree?
You can explore many well-paying careers with a degree in business administration.
As of May 2024, the BLS reports that business professionals earn a median salary of $80,920. However, keep in mind that some professions may require more than a bachelor’s degree or years of practical experience to earn top salaries.
| Job | Median Annual Salary (May 2024) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Management Analyst | $101,190 | Improve companies’ efficiency by interviewing employees, analyzing company finances, and recommending new systems and processes |
| Human Resources Manager | $140,030 | Develops benefits programs, oversees recruitment and retention, and coordinates activities with senior company managers |
| Administrative Services and Facilities Manager | $106,880 | Helps an employer develop policies promoting efficiency, safety, and organization |
| Sales Manager | $138,060 | Sets goals for the sales teams, develops training programs for new employees, and writes reports for senior managers |
| Operations Research Analyst | $91,290 | Uses their background in business and mathematics to help senior managers identify and fix problems |
Learn More About Business Administration Jobs
Is a Business Administration Degree Worth It?
A business administration degree can equip you with essential business skills, including management, finance, marketing, and operations. This knowledge can be applied in various industries, making it a popular choice for students seeking flexible career paths.
Additionally, a bachelor’s degree in business administration can prepare you for many well-paying jobs. The National Association of Colleges and Employers reports that the average starting salary for business graduates in 2023 exceeded $66,000.
Education Beyond a Bachelor’s Degree
Bachelor’s in business administration graduates can continue their education by enrolling in a master of business administration (MBA) program. MBA programs provide advanced business knowledge, leadership skills, and networking opportunities that can further your career advancement.
As an MBA graduate, you can work in many fields, including the healthcare, nonprofit, or education sectors, depending on your specialization and professional background.
If grad school doesn’t appeal to you, pursuing a graduate certificate can be a strategic alternative. Graduate certificates require less time (and money) than a master’s degree and allow you to quickly upskill or specialize in a particular area. They are a flexible option for professionals looking to enhance their qualifications and stay competitive in the job market.
Frequently Asked Questions About Business Administration Degrees
A business administration degree provides students with a broad understanding of business principles and practices. Business administration programs offer an interdisciplinary curriculum with coursework in economics, finance, marketing, and human resources. You can use your well-rounded education to pursue an entry-level position in business or start your own business.
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What Is an Accelerated Degree Program?
An accelerated program helps degree-seekers graduate in less time. Learn more about the requirements and benefits of accelerated programs.
Updated November 16, 2023
Is a Business Degree Worth It? Key Facts and Statistics
The median business sector salary is 67% higher than the median for all occupations. Find average salaries and college costs for business majors.
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Updated September 12, 2024
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The versatile master of business administration (MBA) degree can improve job prospects and lead to higher salaries for many graduates.
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