If you’re pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business, finding an affordable and reputable online program that meets your needs is essential. With so many options available, knowing where to start your search can be difficult.
Fortunately, many resources can help you find the cheapest online bachelor’s in business degrees. These resources can provide tuition costs, program requirements, accreditation, and more information.
Additionally, by researching what to expect in a business program, you can better understand the skills and knowledge you’ll need to develop to succeed in the field.
Whether you’re interested in finance, marketing, or another aspect of business, many online programs can help you achieve your goals.
Affordable Business Program Rankings Summary
| RANK | SCHOOL | IN-STATE TUITION | OUT-OF-STATE TUITION | ACCEPTANCE RATE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Excelsior College Albany, NY | Not provided | Not provided | Not provided |
| #2 | The University of West Florida Pensacola, FL | $3,735 | $16,004 | 53% |
| #3 | University of the Cumberlands Williamsburg, KY | $9,875 | $9,875 | 85% |
| #4 | Indiana University East Richmond, IN | $7,170 | $20,277 | 81% |
| #5 | Dickinson State University Dickinson, ND | $6,474 | $8,294 | 99% |
| #6 | University of Missouri, Columbia Columbia, MO | $10,017 | $28,992 | 77% |
| #7 | SUNY Empire State College Saratoga Springs, NY | $7,070 | $16,980 | Not provided |
| #8 | Central Methodist University Fayette, MO | $6,240 | $6,240 | 100% |
| #9 | Tarleton State University Stephenville, TX | $4,416 | $14,208 | 57% |
| #10 | Bellevue University Bellevue, NE | $7,560 | $7,560 | Not provided |
Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Business
Excelsior College
- Programmatic Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education
- Cost per Credit:
- In-State | $510
- Out-of-State | $510
- Credits to Graduate: 120
Excelsior College offers two fully online bachelor’s degrees in business. One of them leads to the designation of a Bachelor of Professional Studies in management of business. Another award is a bachelor of science degree in business.
The Bachelor of Professional Studies program is mostly aimed at first-time students. The core components include business management and leadership, project management and finance, human resources, International business, and many more.
For working adults, The bachelor of science degree offers the option of focusing on accounting, finance, general management, logistics, human resource management, and marketing. Both programs have extensive transfer credit policies, which can dramatically speed up students’ time to graduation.
The University of West Florida
- Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost per Credit:
- In-State | $219
- Out-of-State | $342
- Credits to Graduate: 120
The University of West Florida’s online bachelor’s degree in general management is focused on a range of flexible transferable skills in business management with cross-industry solid application. It holds the honor of Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business accreditation, a distinction held by less than five percent of business schools worldwide.
Beyond the core business competencies, Learners gain proficiency in marketing, finance, and business technology. With multiple starting dates and an abundance of flexibility, the program has an increased appeal to career changers, working adults, and undergraduate students who are transferring.
University of the Cumberlands
- Programmatic Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education
- Cost per Credit:
- In-State | $220
- Out-of-State | $220
- Credits to Graduate: 120
The Kentucky-based University of the Cumberlands offers an online bachelor’s degree in business administration with four different concentrations available. Students can specialize in finance, business administration, retail marketing, or strategic marketing.
All the concentrations focus on a standard set of essential skills that cover information-driven decision-making, efficient communication, and management of organizational resources.
In addition to its cost-effective assessment, Cumberlands Business School offers another benefit. It is that 96% of its students are eligible for financial aid. This allows students to reduce attendance costs and earn higher returns from their educational investment.
Indiana University East
- Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost per Credit:
- In-State | $242
- Out-of-State | $353
- Credits to Graduate: 120
An intensive, practical curriculum challenges students enrolled in the IU East’s online business administrative program. The course emphasizes both quantitative and qualitative approaches to problem-solving.
The instructors help students develop strategically-oriented, culturally sensitive business management tools. The program has eight minors, which serve as concentrations.
There are options for accounting, economics, entrepreneurship, finance, investigative financial forensics, informatics marketing, and sports management. Coursework is entirely online and has a consortial model that draws on the expertise of faculty from multiple disciplines.
Dickinson State University
- Programmatic Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education
- Cost per Credit:
- In-State | $249
- Out-of-State | $319
- Credits to Graduate: 117-150
North Dakota’s Dickinson State University offers five 100% online BBA courses. Students can choose to focus on business administration, accounting, or ports administration.
They also study finance or the management of human resources. The esports administration degree is a unique opportunity only in specially accredited business schools.
The five programs all share similar foundational prerequisites. The core courses are business law, leadership and management, organization behavior and leadership, finance, marketing, and many other essential aspects.
Specializations provide deep dives into the subject matter, requiring an additional 18 to 31 credits, depending on the chosen concentration.
University of Missouri, Columbia
- Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost per Credit:
- In-State | $617
- Out-of-State | $734
- Credits to Graduate: 120
The University of Missouri, Columbia, offers an entirely online business administration degree that takes a holistic study of business. Mizzou’s online business program combines both practical and theoretical learning.
It offers internship opportunities and the culmination of an experience in the capstone. The post-completion rate for graduates is 92 percent (in paid work and advanced degree courses). The average student graduates in two years.
The program’s policies are generous and allow students to carry up to 66 credits from accredited institutions, speeding up the program’s completion. A special accreditation from the highly regarded Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business completes the program’s worth profile.
SUNY Empire State College
- Cost per Credit:
- In-State | $295
- Out-of-State | $708
- Credits to Graduate: 124
The SUNY Empire State’s online BS degree in Business Administration can be a cost-effective alternative for students looking to be leaders in the field of business. It provides a solid base of knowledge and skills in management, business, and economics.
People who want to switch careers may have the opportunity to earn credit for the knowledge gained from experiences in life.
More than half of students in SUNY can save money and time by doing this. Admission conditions include evidence of high school completion or a GED certificate and an essay.
Central Methodist University
- Cost per Credit:
- In-State | $270
- Out-of-State | $270
- Credits to Graduate: 120
Central Methodist University’s online bachelor’s degree business programs result in students having the option of either a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of science. Both degrees share a joint base that focuses on business management, accounting marketing, entrepreneurship, accounting, and other fields.
The teaching method is practical and includes practical case studies and techniques for teaching. Students graduate with the skills needed for business-focused jobs, including entry-level positions in private and public companies.
The program also supports further business studies at the higher levels, making it suitable for those whose long-term goals include earning an MBA.
Tarleton State University
- Programmatic Accreditation: The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, and Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Cost per Credit:
- In-State | $424
- Out-of-State | $710
- Credits to Graduate: 120
The online bachelor’s of business administration at Tarleton State degree in general management is designed for students from various backgrounds, including those who have completed non-business college credit.
The courses in this double-accredited program cover microeconomic principles, marketing, human resource management, and business law.
TSU strives to enhance the student’s education already completed by helping them transfer the knowledge they have acquired into business-related areas.
Students might also apply technical, vocational, military, or work-related credit toward their degrees.
Bellevue University
- Programmatic Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education
- Cost per Credit:
- In-State | $449
- Out-of-State |$449
- Credits to Graduate: 127
Bellevue University offers an online degree in Business Administration for those who wish to be noticed in any workplace.
With flexible classes and a student coach who assists, This is an excellent option for students who want to combine their studies with other obligations. Business ethics and applied statistics are significant in the curriculum and management principles.
In addition to the business core classes, students can tailor their education with an additional focus on finance, accounting and HR marketing, international management business analytics, supply chain management, or interdisciplinary business.
What Is the Admissions Process?
Norma Fériz-Gordon, a state-certified professional school counselor, knows what students should search for when contemplating an online bachelor’s degree. Norma was a College and Career Planning Team member within the NYC Department of Education.
In her job, she developed partnerships to assist families and students during their postsecondary planning. “Schools are seeking people who are well-rounded and want to complete a degree, and actively participate in their educational process,” Feriz-Gordon told TheBestSchools.
“Many schools look at GPA or personal statements and transcripts as well as additional materials like letter of recommendations received from employer, counselors and teachers.” The admissions process for students is typically similar for both online and in-person courses. Be sure to confirm deadlines and other requirements before applying.
Feriz-Gordon recommends that students apply to programs without stressing about costs. After you’ve submitted your application to the programs, as well as for federal and state aid and scholarships, you can make an informed decision about your finances.
FAQs About the Cheapest Online Bachelor’s Degrees
Are online bachelor’s degrees cheaper than in-person degrees?
Like on-campus courses tuition rates vary considerably for online programs. Virtual degree programs typically cost the same as on-campus programs. But, students who study online can get a discount. A lot of online programs don’t charge extra-state tuition fees. In addition, online students could reduce the costs of moving and transportation costs.
How hard is it to get an online business degree?
Accredited online business programs need the same dedication and commitment as traditional programs. Although you will face the exact academic requirements, some online programs provide more flexibility, allowing students to work at their own pace.
Is an online business degree respected?
Yes, the online business degree is accepted. However, ensure that you obtain your degree from a recognized institution. Accreditation assures you of receiving an excellent education.
What is the easiest degree to get in business?
Some people suggest that marketing, human resources, and leadership in organizations are among the most straightforward qualifications to earn; however, the reality is that it depends on your abilities and interests. Some students excel at accounting, whereas others excel in business environments. It is best to follow your passions and look at your strengths when selecting an MBA.
