When looking for the best online business administration degree programs of 2024, it’s essential to consider factors such as program quality, affordability, and potential career outcomes.
Several institutions offer top-notch online business administration degrees, including the Amherst, the University of Massachusetts, the University of Florida, and Arizona State University.
These programs provide a comprehensive curriculum covering areas like accounting, marketing, and communication, and they can lead to lucrative career opportunities in finance, management, and other related fields.
By carefully evaluating each program’s reputation, faculty, and tuition costs, prospective students can make an informed decision to pursue an online business administration degree that aligns with their academic and career goals.
2024 List of the Best Online Business Administration Programs
Since education requires a large expenditure on education, the ranking method is designed to provide students with comprehensive and unbiased data.
We rely on reliable sources, such as the IPEDS database, Peterson’s database, College Scorecard database, and the National Center for Education Statistics, providing a solid foundation of data that can be used to analyze rankings of business management online courses.
We also evaluate the reliability and quality of online courses to assist students in making educated choices.
1. Franklin University
- Tracks/Concentrations: Digital Marketing, Management and Leadership, Financial Management, Human Resources Management, Performance Management
- Cost: $398 per credit hour
- Required Credits to Graduate: 124
- Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)
Franklin University’s online MBA degree offers comprehensive marketing, management accounting, finance, and economics instruction. The program focuses on the ethical and legal obligations of the social business world and helps students solve complex issues using a multi-functional approach. Students also learn research and business tools and the integration of business concepts to make strategic decisions.
2. McKendree University
- Tracks/Concentrations: Business Administration
- Cost: $410 per credit hour
- Required Credits to Graduate: 120
- Accreditation: IACBE
The online course for the field of business management offered by McKendree University offers a wide range of courses that allow students to study various business fields. The curriculum covers essential areas, including accounting and business administration, economics and finance, management, and marketing, offering an extensive foundation for business studies. The curriculum offers to engage online courses on topics like the international market, organization behavior, and consumer behavior. Students can also convert their bachelor’s degree to an MBA to further develop their career.
3. Fresno Pacific University
- Tracks/Concentrations: Business Management, Emergency Management, Health Care Administration, Organizational Leadership, Project Management
- Cost: $550 per credit hour
- Required Credits to Graduate: 51
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission, candidate for the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
Business administration is a bachelor’s program offered at Fresno Pacific University based on practical application and real-world experience. It guides students through advanced classes in management, finance, and strategic business planning, to name a few. The curriculum is built on basic principles of accounting and economics that provide a complete understanding of the business process. The team-based model of the program is a great way to encourage ethical thinking throughout the business world. It provides a practical guide that applies to entrepreneurs and established businesses alike.
4. University of Arkansas at Little Rock
- Tracks/Concentrations: Management, Human Resource Management, Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- Cost: $292 per credit hour
- Required Credits to Graduate: 120
- Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
This U.A. Little Rock’s online bachelor of business administration (BBA) degree in management is a rigorous curriculum that focuses on business fundamentals, critical thinking, and specialized conceptual understanding and problem-solving abilities. The program is 120 hours online, offered face-to-face or completely online, and helps students become leaders in professional jobs in different sectors, focusing on small-scale companies, large corporations, and government. The comprehensive program prepares students with the skills needed to become a director of projects, general managers, and human resource specialists.
5. Texas A&M University – Commerce
- Tracks/Concentrations: Business Administration
- Cost: $351 per credit hour for in-state students; $759 for out-of-state students
- Required Credits to Graduate: 120
- Accreditation: AACSB
The BBA degree offered at Texas A&M University gives students a solid foundation in business fundamentals with a focus on opportunity identification and creation. The program is based on case studies and other interactive learning techniques, which help grow leadership abilities, resource management, and an arsenal of managerial tools. Students take part in business and university classes and higher-level courses related to majors and opportunities for internships and co-ops that contribute to practical learning.
6. Brenau University
- Tracks/Concentrations: Accounting, Finance, Management, Hospitality Management, Human Resource Management, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Marketing
- Cost: $754 per credit hour
- Required Credits to Graduate: 120
- Accreditation: ACBSP
Brenau’s university’s online bachelor’s degree in business administration gives students the broad business knowledge and the necessary skills to launch a successful career. The course provides real-world experience and solid business knowledge, allowing graduates to succeed in different business environments regardless of whether they want to launch their own business or join a company. Graduates are prepared to succeed as professionals in business, standing in the business world and exploring various career options like management, entrepreneurship, and sales.
7. Utica University
- Tracks/Concentrations: Business Administration
- Cost: $400 per credit hour
- Required Credits to Graduate: 120
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
The business administration online course offered by Utica University management at Utica University offers an extensive education that immerses students in the intricate world of business operations across the globe. Highly skilled educators teach the program. This program is based on an experiential, hands-on approach to learning that allows students to customize the course to suit individual goals while focusing on the most critical business knowledge. Students are prepared to succeed in accounting and business careers, skilled in production communication, interpreting, and communicating financial statements.
8. Lewis University
- Tracks/Concentrations: Bachelor’s to MBA, Bachelor’s to Master’s in Finance
- Cost: $18,796 per 12 to 18 hours or one semester
- Required Credits to Graduate: 128
- Accreditation: ACBSP
The online business administration program through Lewis University provides an in-depth education on interpersonal and organizational interactions within a digital world. The program provides students with the necessary skills to effectively manage processes, people, and resources for organizational purposes that help them make intelligent decisions and develop effective team-building strategies. The curriculum includes the most fundamental business disciplines, such as financial accounting, economics, accounting marketing, leadership process management, technology, and quantitative and qualitative decision-making.
9. Ottawa University
- Tracks/Concentrations: Actuarial Science, Economics, Educational Business Services, Finance, Health Care Management, Human Resources, Leadership and Management
- Cost: $499 per credit hour
- Required Credits to Graduate: 120
- Accreditation: ACBSP
The Ottawa University’s online business degree program in administration was designed to meet the growing need for graduates with crucial work skills and job abilities in business management. The program emphasizes interpersonal skills essential for booming success. The curriculum focuses on developing the ability to communicate in writing and orally. It focuses on the development of analytical skills through the analysis of data, problem-solving, and thinking critically. Courses in the core cover many subjects like macroeconomics, accounting, and microeconomics, to name a few.
10. City University of Seattle
- Tracks/Concentrations: Data Analytics for Business Decision Making, Management, Project Management, Specialized Study
- Cost: $415 to 490 per credit hour
- Required Credits to Graduate: 180
- Accreditation: ACBSP
The business administration online degree offered at the City University of Seattle is notable for its precise design. It aims to develop analytical thinkers, decision-makers, and problem-solvers capable of navigating the complicated and tumultuous business environment. It offers basic artificial intelligence classes for business students, empowering students with fundamental management skills, innovative problem-solving approaches, and a working knowledge of advanced technologies such as AI, big data, and computing.
What courses are typically in an online business administration program?
Students enrolled in the degree program can choose to major in human resource management, information system management, or small business and entrepreneurial. Students must earn a minimum of 18 credit units in the course of their choice. Capstone projects, internships, and practical capstone projects are also required to finish the majority of degrees in business administration. The following online courses for a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration are designed to prepare students to make sound business choices in the real-world business context.
- The Principles of Accounting. This basic introduction to modern financial accounting equips students with a fundamental understanding of fundamental accounting concepts used to study business transactions, make financial statements, and extract and transmit information as required.
- Business Finance. This course gives students a comprehensive overview of the business’s fundamentals, theories, and practice of managing finances. The ability to analyze financial data, identify problems, and come up with solutions to business issues are some of the goals in this class.
- The Organizational Leader. As a critical job skill in the 21st-century workplace, this course teaches students about a leadership role within organizations using the theories of leadership and assessment tools. The goal is to equip students with the necessary leadership skills for creating high-performing businesses.
- Management and Organization Theory. Using management concepts and theories, this course welds the four functions of management–planning, organizing, leading, and controlling–towards aligning organizational goals. The goal is to allow the learner to develop targets and goals that contribute towards a common objective: improving the performance of organizations and encouraging sustainability.
- Human Resource Management. This course will give the student a better comprehension of how human behaviors are conducted and the impact it has on the company. The aim is for the student to strategically manage human resources within an organization by better understanding labor relations, including the existing laws and regulations within the business world.
- Marketing Management. This foundational course covers the essential principles of marketing, which are essential to establishing and maintaining lucrative relationships with your customers. The goal is to help students recognize the vital role of marketing in an organization’s success and understand the strategic significance of marketing to the company’s overall performance.
- Business Law. This course covers the legal principles and concepts that apply to business operations globally and domestically. Students acquire the skills necessary to understand and analyze legal procedures. This course also covers the analysis of rights in the form of contracts and criminal obligations, liabilities, and remedies within the business.
- Business Ethics. Since business conduct is not free of moral and ethical concerns, This course will provide students with a thorough understanding of corporate behavior and social accountability. The goal is to comprehend the interplay between the policies and strategies that impact the community and the company’s context. The emphasis is on ethical principles and how decisions made by business leaders lead to consequences both in the local and global contexts.
- Strategic Management. Also critical for online courses for administrative assistants: The capstone course integrates the fundamental subjects of marketing, management finance and production operations, accounting, as well as research and development, including information systems, to help formulate a solid business plan. Through a holistic analysis, the student will learn how to utilize the different aspects of business and the ability to think critically to establish the foundational knowledge needed for the strategic management of organizations.
What types of specializations are available in online business administration programs?
Bachelor’s degrees online in business administration allow students to focus on one specific business area, including healthcare management, marketing, and even online shopping. These are the options available to you:
- Marketing. It focuses on strategic plan-of-action, research into markets, and marketing.
- Finance. The focus is on the management of finances, strategies for investment, and risk analysis.
- Human Resource Management. It covers the acquisition of talent, employee relations, and the development of organizations.
- Entrepreneurship. The focus is on startup strategies, business planning, and the ability to innovate.
- Supply Chain Management. The focus is on logistics, procurement, and effective supply chain management.
- International Business. The course focuses on global market dynamics, cross-cultural management, and international commerce.
- Information Technology Management. It integrates technology and business strategies, focusing on IT leadership.
- Healthcare Management. It is designed for people interested in healthcare companies’ business aspects.
- Project Management. It focuses on organizing, executing, and overseeing projects within companies.
- eCommerce: Focuses on internet-based business strategies, digital marketing, and E-commerce platforms.
How to choose the best online business administration program?
Students considering enrolling in an online degree in business administration must look for things like legitimacy, accreditation, and support. Here are the specifics regarding each:
- Accreditation. Foremost, verify the institution’s accreditation. Find an online bachelor’s business degree accredited by organizations recognized through the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and business education associations like IACBE, the ACBSP, and the IACBE. They are nandble to ensure that programs meet the standards for academic excellence. Mainly, you should select an institution accredited with both accreditation for the institution and programmatic accreditation. Employers will also confirm the school’s accreditation, which should be on your list.
- School and Faculty Reputation. The school’s reputation is crucial because, as recruiters have stated in surveys, the reputation of the institution, which includes the quality of its faculty and the quality of their teaching, is more important than the kind of degree, regardless of whether it was earned in the traditional manner or via online. It’s also helpful to look up the most reputable colleges with solid experience in offering online education. Those who have offered online programs for a long time will have an effective system, unlike the schools that have only recently switched to an online platform following the outbreak. Rates of graduation retention and employment rates are essential to keep in mind.
- Student Services. If you plan to take a business administration online degree, be sure to look into the student services provided by the university. Learning about communication in a remote setting isn’t easy. The most effective online schools offer 24/7 support services that are prepared to assist online students. There are also online schools that can provide students with faculty members who serve as their academic advisors throughout their studies.
What career paths are available for graduates of online business administration programs?
According to the data released from the BLS in 2023, students who complete online Business Administration courses have the option of pursuing a variety of careers that include:
- Security, Commodity Contracts, and Other Financial Investments and Related Activities ($135,250)
- Agents and Managers for Public Figures ($118,340)
- Monetary Authorities – Central Bank ($116,840)
- Computer and Peripheral Equipment Manufacturing ($120,910)
- Pipeline Transportation of Crude Oil ($119,690)
Furthermore, graduates can pursue careers in various positions within different sectors. For example, management analysts specialize in improving organizations’ efficiency, while financial analysts focus on making informed statements and decision-making. Managers design and supervise strategies for marketing, and HR managers are responsible for hiring and relations with employees. Graduates can also become entrepreneurs and use the principles and abilities acquired through the online business administration degree to propel expansion.
FAQs
Are there strategies to strengthen my application for online business programs?
To make your application more appealing to online bachelor’s business programs:
- Highlight your relevant work experience if you have it.
- Maintain a competitive GPA, obtain strong letters of recommendation, and show leadership qualities and extracurricular involvement.
- Address any deficiencies in your academic performance, personalize your resume, and look into completing MOOCs or certificates to show continuous learning.
- Make sure you research and customize your application to show a genuine interest and ensure it’s completely error-free.
- Prepare for required interviews by demonstrating your enthusiasm for business and willingness to participate.
Which is better BA or BS in business administration?
A BA in business administration typically tends to have an extensive curriculum that includes more liberal arts classes such as language studies, linguistics, or humanities. On the other hand, a BS with a major in Business Administration often involves a greater emphasis on technical and quantitative abilities and additional classes in science or mathematics. The best option is dependent on the individual’s strengths and interests and the balance you want between liberal arts and business education. Both degrees can lead to lucrative career paths in the world of business.
What is the best major in BS business administration?
The most sought-after majors in the BS of business administration are marketing, finance, and management. Finance draws people who are interested in managing financial aspects of investment, planning, and other aspects. Marketing is popular due to its emphasis on marketing research, market research, and branding management, appealing to people with artistic and strategic talents. Management, as a flexible choice, is a popular option for students looking to master organizational leadership as well as team management. These choices are popular because of their wide-ranging application across different industries, giving graduates a wide array of highly sought-after competencies in today’s competitive business world.
Is an online business administration degree worth it?
Yes, you can, and the business administration degree that you can earn online merits consideration due to its cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and potential career advancement. The online programs are flexible and are suitable for professionals who work and typically offer lower tuition rates. The degree offers a solid base for different business roles and allows for specialization in areas like finance or marketing. With a wide range of resources and a broad student population, online courses provide the opportunity to gain a global perspective. However, the value of education depends on the individual’s goals as well as the quality of the institution. Selecting an accredited program compatible with your professional and personal goals is crucial. As per the BLS, the bachelor’s degree in business administration could add up to $2,000-$5,000 or more annually in earnings potential. According to a study, most undergraduates think their online training is worth the expense.
