Best Online Entrepreneurship Programs of 2024
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Entrepreneurs launch new business ventures, grow small businesses, and innovate in established organizations. And an entrepreneurship degree strengthens the business skills and knowledge you’ll need to become an entrepreneur.
Is it worth going back to college for an entrepreneurship degree? Currently, 80% of entrepreneurs have a bachelor’s degree or higher, according to Zippia. That means earning your bachelor’s in entrepreneurship can pay off.
The specialized coursework during an entrepreneurship program can help you break into high-paying entrepreneurship careers. For example, top executives report a six-figure median salary based on May 2022 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
If you’re thinking about majoring in entrepreneurship, check out our rankings of the best online entrepreneurship programs. Our resources can help you find a program that fits your interests, budget, and professional goals.
What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor's in Entrepreneurship Program?
Entrepreneurship is a multifaceted area of study that can be a good fit for students with various interests. There are many different types of entrepreneurs, each with their own unique approach to business and commerce — some are conservative, aggressive, or innovative. Entrepreneurs also often specialize in small, large, or social businesses, or scalable startups.
The best online entrepreneurship programs build strong core skills in business, leadership, marketing, and finance management for broad applications in any field. Most four-year bachelor's degree programs require students to complete 120 credits, though there are also many accelerated programs online. Online entrepreneurship programs typically emphasize internships and networking opportunities.
Most schools offer standalone entrepreneurship programs as bachelor of arts (BA) degrees. Schools also commonly offer bachelor of science (BS) or BA degrees in business, with a concentration in entrepreneurship. Bachelor of business administration degrees (BBAs) with a specialization in entrepreneurship are also common. Entrepreneurship concentrations can include:
- Small business
- Business analytics
- Retail industry
- Food and beverage industry
- Sports fitness
While programs vary, BA, BS, and BBA degree programs in entrepreneurship all focus on helping students build leadership skills that they can apply to their particular area of expertise. Coursework explores accounting, fundraising, practical law, and innovative marketing. Students also learn the basics of writing business plans, prototyping products, and protecting their intellectual property as entrepreneurs.
Featured Online Entrepreneurship Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Accredited Online Bachelor's in Entrepreneurship Programs
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data
and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
WCU offers a degree completion program in innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurship, allowing students to earn a bachelor of science in business administration (BSBA).
The BSBA degree program at MCU explores topics such as financial accounting, financial management, and strategic management. The entrepreneurship major teaches students how to create, fund, and execute a new venture. They learn about intrapreneurship or developing new ventures within existing businesses.
Students in the program have internship opportunities to gain hands-on experience. WCU also offers very competitive tuition rates. Applicants must possess an associate degree or equivalent number of credits.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $66 per credit (in state); $232 per credit (out of state)
- Program Length: 2-4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Instruction style: Asynchronous
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Bemidji State University
Bemidji, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Minnesota, BSU offers a BS in business administration with an entrepreneurship emphasis. The degree completion curriculum consists of 62-68 credits in the major. Students can complete the bachelor's in entrepreneurship entirely online. The BSBA core builds business skills such as accounting, marketing, and financial management.
Students learn the fundamentals of entrepreneurship. A small business case analysis course provides business problem-solving experience. Students use electives to develop expertise in niche areas such as real estate and HR management. Distance learners pay in-state tuition rates. Admission requires an associate degree, the Minnesota transfer curriculum, or the equivalent credits.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $290 per credits
- Program Length: 2-4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Instruction style: Asynchronous
- Format: Online or on-campus
- School Status: Public
- Program Accreditation: International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Lynn University
Boca Raton, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Florida, Lynn offers an online BS in entrepreneurship with no required campus visits. The 120-credit degree includes general education and other coursework. The major explores entrepreneurship in practice, covering topics like business strategy, financial reporting, and business analytics.
During the program, students learn about the functions and activities involved in an organization's operations management. They also must complete an internship for 150 hours of field experience.
All students pay the same tuition regardless of residency and receive one-on-one mentoring and support. Three start dates provide additional enrollment flexibility. Applicants must possess a high school or GED diploma and submit transcripts.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $325 per credit
- Program Length: 4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Instruction style: Asynchronous
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
- Program Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Northwood University
Midland, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Michigan-based NU offers a bachelor's degree program in entrepreneurship for nontraditional learners. Students learn core business skills such as financial accounting, financial management, and entrepreneurial marketing. Participants learn from NU's entrepreneurs-in-residence. Near the end of the program, they develop a business plan to demonstrate what they've learned.
Students can combine online, evening, and weekend courses to fit their schedules. And NU operates several regional sites for on-campus and hybrid learners. Students can finish the degree faster by transferring credits and can also earn credit for professional and military experience.
Applicants must possess a high school or GED diploma and submit transcripts.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $470 per credit; $250 per credit for uniformed service members
- Program Length: 4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 126 credits
- Instruction style: Asynchronous
- Format: Online, hybrid, or on-campus
- School Status: Private
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Lamar University
Beaumont, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students in LU's bachelor of business administration in entrepreneurship program receive a well-rounded business education. The school's generous transfer policy and affordability make LU a great option for nontraditional learners.
The core courses in this entrepreneurship program explore various topics, including financial accounting, business analysis, and management information systems. Degree-seekers learn how to recognize opportunities in the marketplace and conduct feasibility studies. At the end of the program, enrollees use the skills they've learned to create business plans.
Students can transfer up to 90 credits into this online bachelor's in entrepreneurship. Applicants must complete an application, submit the $25 application fee, and submit their transcripts.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $296 per credit
- Program Length: 1-4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Instruction style: Asynchronous
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Columbia College
Columbia, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Missouri, CC offers many courses online, including a bachelor's in innovation and entrepreneurship. The program, which allows students to choose between a bachelor of arts or bachelor of science and earn a transfer-friendly business degree.
The 120-credit curriculum includes business classes exploring topics such as small business finance, accounting, and strategic management. Students can finish the online program faster by transferring up to 90 credits.
During the program, students learn how to plan, finance, and manage a new venture. Enrollees can even use elective credit to complete a management internship and put their skills into action.
First-time college applicants must submit their high school or GED diplomas. Transfer applicants need to provide their transcripts.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $375 per credit
- Program Length: 1-4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Instruction style: Asynchronous
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Peirce College
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online
Founded in 1865, Peirce offers a 121-credit BS in business administration with a concentration in entrepreneurship and small business management. Budding entrepreneurs begin the program by learning business basics and then go on to explore topics such as finance, managerial accounting, and HR management.
After an introduction to entrepreneurship, students learn e-commerce, accounting and tax for smaller businesses, and entrepreneurial strategies and tactics. Students participate in cooperative work experiences to gain hands-on experience. Learners can transfer up to 90 credits into the bachelor's program.
Applicants must submit submit high school and college transcripts, if applicable.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $600 per credit
- Program Length: 1-4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 121 credits
- Instruction style: Asynchronous
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- School Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Franklin University
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Established for nontraditional learners, Franklin makes it easier for many students to finish their degrees and afford college. The 124-credit BS in entrepreneurship program teaches students how to start their own businesses or expand businesses they already own.
The business core explores topics such as financial and managerial accounting, finance, and marketing. Students learn the theory and practice of entrepreneurship, how to raise capital, and how to recruit and lead an effective team. At the end of the degree program, students incorporate all the lessons they've learned by creating a business plan.
Locked-in tuition helps make the bachelor's in entrepreneurship affordable for many learners, and students can transfer up to 94 credits into the degree. Applicants must submit high school and college transcripts, if applicable. The Franklin application is free.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $398 per credit
- Program Length: 1-4 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 124 credits
- Instruction style: Asynchronous
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
- Program Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
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.
Ranking Methodology Summary
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.
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor's in Entrepreneurship Program?
Entrepreneurship Courses
Foundations of Entrepreneurship
Students explore the core pillars of entrepreneurship, including the entrepreneurial process, ethical decision-making, and innovative conceptualization. The coursework also trains students to develop and execute new business opportunities.
Business Planning
A critical entrepreneurial skill, business plan development typically requires its own class within an online entrepreneurship program. Students in this course learn how to write their own business plans, considering elements like marketing, competition, and management.
Financing a New Venture
Financing for entrepreneurs is key since most startups require outside financing. This course trains students to explore a variety of fundraising and investment methods and strategies for their projects. They also learn to use financial management software.
Innovative Design and Prototyping
This course walks students through the life cycle of product development. Aspiring entrepreneurs can explore different methods of revolutionary and evolutionary development, marketing strategies, and perceptual mapping techniques.
Marketing for Entrepreneurs
Students learn to target and engage customers through a variety of marketing channels in this course. Topics include strategic marketing-oriented decision-making, identifying a target audience, and marketing through traditional and social media.
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What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor's in Entrepreneurship Degree?
Career Outlook
Graduates with a bachelor's in entrepreneurship are uniquely prepared for top executive jobs or self-employment. Entrepreneurs trained in business, finance, and management qualify for the highest-level corporate CEO or executive director positions, but they may also forge their own path in a specialized field.
Some entrepreneurs specialize in fields like business, nonprofit management, or PR and fundraising. Others gain experience as general managers. The BLS projects positions for top executives will grow 3% between 2022 and 2032.
Entrepreneurship is an especially popular major because of the high earning potential in fields like business and finance. CEOs can earn annual salaries well over $150,000. Below is a list of some of the most common careers for entrepreneurs.
Find out how to launch your career as an entrepreneur. Learn more about entrepreneurship careers.
Career Paths
General and Operations Managers
Professionals equipped with a bachelor's in entrepreneurship can become small business owners or general managers of a large business or corporation. Also called operations managers, general managers require diverse planning, policy, and HR skills to direct the long- and short-term operations of an organization.
- Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $98,100
Business Managers
Business managers must be adept at overseeing a variety of departments and tasks, including operations, HR, and finance. They often acquire skills unique to an area of expertise, such as healthcare, law, or staffing services. Entrepreneurs may start their own businesses using these management skills.
- Average Annual Salary (February 2024): $66,910
Public Relations and Fundraising Managers
Professionals with bachelor's degrees in entrepreneurship can work as PR or fundraising managers for a business or individual client. They can also use their expertise in these areas to start their own businesses. Entrepreneurs trained in PR and fundraising possess the critical skills necessary to promote and finance any business venture.
- Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $125,620
Nonprofit Executive Directors
Executive directors oversee the daily functions of nonprofit organizations. They have duties similar to those of CEOs at for-profit businesses or corporations. They hold the highest-level management position within their organizations and work closely with the board of directors to direct programs, marketing, fundraising, and staff management.
- Average Annual Salary (February 2024): $74,470
Chief Executive Officers
CEOs are among the highest-level management jobs at businesses and corporations. Also called presidents or managing directors, CEOs work with fellow top executives to direct operations, develop company policies, and achieve corporate objectives. Equivalent positions include city- and state-government officials, and school superintendents or presidents.
- Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $100,090
Entrepreneurship Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.
What Are Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor's in Entrepreneurship Program?
Though programs may vary slightly, online bachelor's degrees typically require students to submit transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and essays with their application. Admission into an online bachelor's in entrepreneurship program may require students to complete additional steps, such as participating in a virtual interview.
Application
Most colleges accept applications through the Common App, a well-known application tool tailored to undergraduates. The Common App allows students to apply to multiple schools through a single application form. However, students should still customize their essays to fit the criteria of each school on their list.
Test Scores
Entrance exam requirements are common for admission into undergraduate programs. Most bachelor's programs in entrepreneurship require students to submit SAT or ACT scores, but even programs that do not require standardized test scores may still consider them. Some programs require that applicants meet minimum scores for entry.
Letters of Recommendation
Entrepreneurship candidates can use letters of recommendation to their advantage during the application process. Students should ask trusted teachers, mentors, employers, counselors, or coaches they know well to write recommendation letters. Students should request recommendations well in advance to give writers plenty of time to meet deadlines.
Essays
Like letters of recommendation, application essays help convey a student's unique aptitude for an entrepreneurship program. Admissions officers look for original, meaningful essays that allow them to gain insight into students' academic and professional goals. Some programs include general essay requirements, while others require students to respond to specific prompts.
Official Transcripts
Colleges always require applicants to submit transcripts for admission consideration. Recent high school graduates must have their high school transcripts sent straight to any college they apply to. Students returning to college after a prolonged absence or with college experience should review each school's credit-transfer policy.
Continuing Education
Since entrepreneurs can launch their careers and assume high-level executive jobs with only a bachelor's degree, few go on to earn a master's in entrepreneurship. However, students may return to school to pursue an advanced degree such as an MBA in finance, technology, or nonprofit management.
Though self-employed entrepreneurs do not need a formal education, those who hope for a corporate executive career may pursue an advanced degree. Some employers require or prefer candidates with MBAs for high-level positions. Entrepreneurs may also pursue professional certification in a supplemental skill like small business or project management.
How Do I Choose an Online Bachelor's in Entrepreneurship Program?
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Cost
The average total cost of college in the United States is $35,551 per year, according to 2021 data from the National Center for Education Statistics. However, many factors can influence the price, and the number can vary depending on whether a student chooses an in-state vs. out-of-state school, a private vs. public institution, or an online vs. in-person program. In addition to tuition, room and board, books, and additional fees can compound expenses. Online degree programs are often cheaper than in-person degrees as they commonly offer set or in-state tuition rates for all learners. -
Program Format
Schools approach online learning differently and offer a variety of delivery methods and enrollment options. Programs may be synchronous or asynchronous. Synchronous programs require students to meet at set times, while asynchronous programs allow learners to complete coursework on their own time. At some schools, students can choose their preferred learning method. Many online bachelor's in entrepreneurship programs also offer students a choice between full- or part-time enrollment, including accelerated paths to graduation. -
Location
Students should consider a school's location even if they plan to earn a degree online. Some online programs require campus visits for orientation, workshops, or labs. In these cases, learners should live within driving distance of campus. Other programs do not include any campus residency requirements. Many online bachelor's degrees in entrepreneurship include internships, which can be completed locally for distance learners. -
Accreditation
Accreditation is necessary to verify a school meets the highest national standards for education and credibility. A school may hold national or regional accreditation through an agency approved by the U.S. Department of Education. Regional accreditation is more desirable since the process of acquiring it is more rigorous. -
Student Support
The best online bachelor's in entrepreneurship programs offer student support services for online learners on par with those offered for on-campus students. Schools commonly offer academic advising, career services, and tutoring for online learners. Many distance degree programs also emphasize experiential learning and professional development through internship placements, mentorship opportunities, and alumni connections.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor's in Entrepreneurship Programs
Are entrepreneurship majors in demand?
Entrepreneurship majors benefit from strong demand for their unique skill set. Studying new business financing, product development, and innovation prepares entrepreneurs to launch new businesses or grow business ventures. Their analytical, creative thinking, and leadership skills serve them in many fields.
Is a bachelor's in entrepreneurship worth it?
Yes, a bachelor's in entrepreneurship meets the minimum requirements for many top executive positions. Additionally, earning a bachelor's in entrepreneurship can provide students with the skills they need to start their own businesses.
Professionals equipped with entrepreneurial skills can approach any endeavor with broad expertise in business, finance, and leadership. Aspiring entrepreneurs can also gain field experience and develop critical communication, strategic decision-making, and problem-solving skills through an online entrepreneurship program.
What can I do with a bachelor's in entrepreneurship?
A bachelor's in entrepreneurship can lead to the highest-level executive positions in fields like business, finance, and nonprofit management. Students can become CEOs, chief operating officers (COOs), or chief financial officers (CFOs) with a bachelor's degree and years of experience.
A graduate of an online entrepreneurship program may also pursue a career as an executive director of a nonprofit organization, mayor, governor, school superintendent, or university president. Many students also earn a bachelor's in entrepreneurship as the first step toward starting their own business.
What is the average age of an entrepreneur in 2023?
The average age of an entrepreneur is 44 years old, according to Zippia. That means you don't have to be at the beginning of your career to become an entrepreneur. Switching career paths to start a new business or study entrepreneurship can pay off at any age.
Further, many potential clients of service-based businesses prefer to hire vendors with a degree that demonstrates their acumen as a professional. Your entrepreneurship degree can potentially boost the potential for business relationships with clients who prefer a degreed professional.
What percent of entrepreneurs have a bachelor's degree?
A total of 62% of entrepreneurs have a bachelor's degree, according to Zippia. In addition, 11% of entrepreneurs hold a master's degree, while 14% hold an associate degree. Only 6% of entrepreneurs hold a high school diploma as their highest level of education.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed February 12, 2024.
