Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
Updated June 2, 2023
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Affordable Online Business Degree
Business degrees help students develop the critical thinking, financial, management, and decision-making skills needed to contribute to a variety of organizations and industries.
According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, 19% of college graduates in 2017-2018 majored in business.
The popularity of business degrees is due in part to their versatility. Graduates can find work in a range of positions across virtually any industry, including marketing, management, and finance. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects faster-than-average job growth for business and finance professionals between 2018-2018.
Business is often a lucrative career choice, too. In just one example, graduates with a bachelor's degree in business are qualified to work as entry-level management analysts, who earn a median salary of $85,260 per year.
Finding the right program for you isn't just about finding the cheapest online business degree. This guide ranks the most affordable online business bachelor's degrees to help students find the right programs for their needs. It also covers other important information for prospective students, including common courses, admission requirements, and potential business careers and salaries for graduates.
Featured Online Bachelor's in Business Degrees
FAQ Abut Affordable Bachelor's in Business Degrees
How Long Does It Take to Complete a Bachelor's in Business Program?
An online bachelor's in business typically takes four years of full-time study to complete.
What Can I Do With a Bachelor's in Business?
A bachelor's in business prepares graduates for entry-level opportunities in diverse industries, such as marketing, management, finance, and accounting.
Is a Business Degree a BA or a BS?
Although some programs award bachelor of arts degrees, most online business bachelor's programs result in a bachelor of science or a bachelor of business administration degree.
Which Business Concentration Is the Best?
The best concentration for a business student depends entirely on their own interests and goals. General tracks are available for students who aren't sure of their professional goals.
Do You Need a Bachelor's in Business to Get an MBA?
No, business schools consider MBA applicants with backgrounds in nearly any academic discipline. MBAs are interdisciplinary programs designed to suit diverse student populations.
What Is an Online Bachelor's in Business Degree?
A bachelor's in business is an undergraduate program that provides students with a background in business concepts, legal and social responsibility, and management. Many schools offer affordable online business degrees where students develop core skills in areas like accounting and quantitative methods, leadership, communication, financial analysis, and problem-solving.
The most affordable online business degrees attract many types of learners. Recent high school graduates looking for a flexible college experience may seek out online programs, while working professionals may choose an online business degree to help them advance in their careers while maintaining employment.
Most Affordable Online Bachelor's in Business
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy.
These rankings include
#1 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
Excelsior University
Albany, NY - 4 years
- Online
Excelsior University, a private nonprofit college based in Albany, New York, offers 61 in-person and online bachelor's degree options. For students seeking to advance in the business field through flexible study, the college's online offerings may be a wise choice. With two fully online bachelor's programs in business, graduates can apply their knowledge and skills to industry-specific careers or further studies in the field.
Excelsior provides comprehensive support for new learners, including academic and financial aid advising. Applicants can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities and determine eligibility.
Excelsior University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $60,200
#2 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
University of the Cumberlands
Williamsburg, KY - 4 years
- Online
A leader in Christian education, University of the Cumberlands hosts 37 bachelor's degrees, all of which are available online. Individuals pursuing career opportunities or graduate studies in the business field can choose from a BA or BS track in business administration. The BS program features multiple concentration options.
Students seeking career, academic, or financial guidance can benefit from institutional resources like career services and academic advising. The financial aid office at Cumberlands helps eligible degree-seekers connect with funding sources, including scholarships and fellowships.
University of the Cumberlands at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 81%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Undergrad Tuition: $9,875
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $28,500
#3 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Liberty University supports 93 bachelor's programs, 34 of which are available online. Students seeking a business degree with a Christian perspective can complete the school's online bachelor of science in business. This program holds accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
Liberty connects enrollees with success-oriented resources such as career services and academic advising throughout their studies. Learners can contact the university's office of financial aid to explore funding opportunities, such as scholarships, grants, and federal financial aid.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 50%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Undergrad Tuition: $14,791
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $35,800
#4 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
Monroe College
The Bronx, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in the Bronx, New York, Monroe College is a private for-profit institution. The school's 14 in-person and online undergraduate programs include a bachelor's in business management available across both modalities. Graduates of this program can enter the workforce or pursue further education such as a master's degree.
Monroe supports students through institutional resources, including career services and academic advising. Eligible degree-seekers can benefit from financial aid opportunities such as scholarships and grants.
Monroe College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 49%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Undergrad Tuition: $14,796
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $29,100
#5 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
The University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of West Florida (UWF), located in Pensacola, provides 57 bachelor's degree options in remote and face-to-face modalities. The school's AACSB International-accredited bachelor of science in business administration helps prepare graduates for the demands of a business career through rigorous study, relevant coursework, and experiential learning opportunities. Participants also develop the discipline needed to complete graduate studies.
UWF connects students with success-oriented resources such as career services, academic advising, and financial aid counseling. Funding opportunities for eligible learners include scholarships and federal grants. The average UWF degree-seeker receives a financial aid award package of $9,209.
The University of West Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 58%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Undergrad Tuition (In State): $3,735
Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $16,004
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $33,600
#6 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
Central Methodist University
Fayette, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Central Methodist University (CMU) boasts a robust hybrid learning environment, supporting both in-person and online education modalities across 27 bachelor's degrees. Available online and at the school's Fayette, Missouri, campus, the school's bachelor's-level business program features BA and BS tracks. Graduates can apply their knowledge and skill sets to master's studies or diverse careers in the business field.
Students seeking career, academic, and financial guidance can benefit from CMU's institutional resources. Learners can connect with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities, such as federal financial aid and institutional scholarships.
Central Methodist University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 100%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Undergrad Tuition: $5,950
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $35,000
#7 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
The University of Missouri
Columbia, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Missouri (Mizzou) offers 83 bachelor's degrees, 14 of which are available online. These flexible programs include a fully remote bachelor of science in business administration (BSBA). Accredited by AACSB International, the BSBA program prepares participants to pursue diverse business careers or earn a graduate degree, such as an MBA.
Mizzou's career services, academic advising, and other resources help business students navigate the degree process. Learners can meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss funding opportunities and determine eligibility for scholarships. Of the college's total undergraduate cohort, 93% receive some form of aid.
The University of Missouri at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 82%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Undergrad Tuition (In State): $9,330
Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $27,612
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $42,700
#8 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
Indiana University East
Richmond, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Indiana University East (IU East) offers 26 bachelor's degrees across in-person and online learning formats. The Richmond-based school's BS in business administration introduces students to foundational business competencies while also building general skills such as communication and critical thinking. Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, this fully online program is also a candidate for AACSB International accreditation.
IU East attendees enjoy strong institutional support, including career services and academic advising. Eligible degree-seekers can benefit from financial aid opportunities, with incoming enrollees receiving an average of $7,658 in aid.
Indiana University East at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 67%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Undergrad Tuition (In State): $7,067
Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $19,926
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $32,400
#9 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
Maryville University
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Maryville University operates a campus in Saint Louis, Missouri, delivering a total of 53 bachelor's degrees in both face-to-face and online formats. The private university offers several undergraduate business programs online, including a BS in business administration with concentrations in areas like accounting and marketing. Distance learners at Maryville can also earn specialized bachelor's degrees in fields like management information systems, sport business management, and organizational leadership.
The university provides comprehensive support for new students, including financial aid advising. Scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid can help defray the costs of an undergraduate degree.
Maryville University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 95%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Undergrad Tuition: $24,766
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $44,100
#10 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
DeVry University
Chicago, IL - 4 years
- Online
DeVry University operates more than 50 locations across the United States. This private for-profit university hosts 16 bachelor's programs across in-person, hybrid, and online learning modalities. Available fully online or in a hybrid format, DeVry's bachelor's degrees in business include programs in business administration, management, and technical management. Within these majors, students can specialize in areas like project management, business intelligence and analytics management, and entrepreneurship.
DeVry's support resources for new enrollees include financial aid advising. Prospective applicants may be eligible for funding options, such as scholarships and grants.
DeVry University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 44%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 27-to-1
Undergrad Tuition: $14,560
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $37,600
#11 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
West Virginia University
Morgantown, WV - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Morgantown, West Virginia University (WVU) provides in-person and remote learning opportunities across 87 bachelor's degree options. The school's online bachelor's program in business administration offers a competitive option for students looking to succeed in the business field. Within the online business administration program, WVU learners can select a major in general business, hospitality and tourism management, or marketing.
Business degree-seekers at WVU can use scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid to defray the costs of an undergraduate education. The college reports that its enrollees receive $9,263 in financial aid on average.
West Virginia University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 84%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21-to-1
Undergrad Tuition (In State): $8,976
Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $25,320
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $39,300
#12 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
Union Institute & University
Cincinnati, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Union Institute & University, located in Cincinnati, Ohio, offers a generous transfer credit policy across its 14 online and on-campus bachelor's programs. Undergraduates pursuing the private university's BS in business management can choose either a general track or a concentration in organizational leadership, human resource management, healthcare administration, or applied technology and business leadership.
Students can receive guidance through Union's career services, academic advising, and other resources. Prospective learners can meet with financial aid counselors to determine eligibility for scholarships, grants, and other financial aid.
Union Institute & University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 7-to-1
Undergrad Tuition: $15,510
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $64,200
#13 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
Dickinson State University
Dickinson, ND - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Dickinson State University (DSU) in North Dakota features a robust hybrid learning environment, supporting both in-person and online education modalities across 42 bachelor's degrees. The public university's bachelor of business administration program, available in person and online, may suit students seeking flexible, industry-relevant study. This program holds accreditation from the International Accreditation Council for Business Education and offers emphases in accounting, administration, e-sports administration, finance, and human resource management.
Degree-seekers at DSU can access student success resources, including financial aid counseling. Scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid can help defray the costs of an undergraduate degree. Of the college's total undergraduate cohort, 93% receive some form of aid.
Dickinson State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 99%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Undergrad Tuition (In State): $6,474
Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $8,294
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $42,300
#14 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
The University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Fayetteville, the University of Arkansas (U of A) supports both in-person and remote study opportunities across 83 bachelor's-level programs. The school's bachelor of science in business administration can help aspiring business professionals prepare to enter the workforce or apply to a master's degree program after their undergraduate studies. Degree-seekers choose from emphases in general business, human resources management, accounting, marketing, and supply chain management. The program's accreditation from AACSB International attests to its high quality.
U of A's support for new students includes financial aid advising. Enrollees can access financial aid opportunities, such as external and internal scholarships, depending on eligibility. The average U of A attendee receives a financial aid award package of $7,593.
The University of Arkansas at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 78%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition (In State): $7,568
Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $24,056
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $40,900
#15 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
Bellevue University
Bellevue, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Bellevue University supports both in-person and remote study opportunities across 61 bachelor's degrees. Offered online and at the school's Nebraska campus, the BS in business caters to working learners with flexible scheduling and an accelerated pace. The school also offers a BS in business administration. Graduates can qualify for diverse business positions or pursue further education such as an MBA.
Business students benefit from institutional supports throughout their studies. Prospective enrollees can connect with financial aid counselors to explore funding opportunities, determine scholarship eligibility, and apply for student loans.
Bellevue University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Undergrad Tuition: $7,176
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $52,200
#16 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
SUNY Empire State College
Saratoga Springs, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Saratoga Springs, New York, SUNY Empire State College (ESC) administers 21 bachelor's programs. Students seeking flexible study in the business field can benefit from the school's BS in business administration. Available online, on campus, and in a blended hybrid format, this program prepares learners to apply to graduate programs or pursue a variety of business careers.
Students can meet with an ESC financial aid counselor to discuss funding opportunities and available scholarships. The college reports that 90% of its enrollees receive some form of aid, with the average financial aid package being $7,472.
SUNY Empire State College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Undergrad Tuition (In State): $7,070
Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $16,980
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $42,200
#17 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
The University of Missouri-St. Louis
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution, the University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL) enrolls students in 47 bachelor's degrees, 10 of which are available online. Aspiring business leaders prepare for career advancement or graduate study through USML's AACSB International-accredited bachelor of science in business administration (BSBA) program, offered online and in person.
BSBA candidates can access career services, academic advising, and business-specific resources like the school's leadership council and business alumni association. Learners can also connect with the university's office of financial aid to explore funding opportunities. Incoming USML enrollees receive an average financial aid award of $12,284.
The University of Missouri-St. Louis at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 58%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition (In State): $11,328
Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $29,970
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $38,700
#18 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
Tarleton State University
Stephenville, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Tarleton State University, a public institution, offers 80 bachelor's programs. Available at Tarleton's main campus in Stephenville, Texas, at several satellite campuses, and online, the school's bachelor of business administration caters to learners with previous college experience in any field. The knowledge and skills gained in this program can benefit graduates in future business careers or in further educational pursuits.
Tarleton offers numerous institutional resources to support its students. Academic advisers help enrollees plan their degree paths and maximize transfer credits, while financial aid officers assist degree-seekers in connecting with funding opportunities. Tarleton reports that 92% of all its students receive financial aid and 46% of all enrollees graduate.
Tarleton State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 58%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21-to-1
Undergrad Tuition (In State): $4,951
Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $14,123
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $38,200
#19 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
The University of Houston-Downtown
Houston, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) offers a total of 43 bachelor's degrees in both face-to-face and online formats. The school administers 10 AACSB-accredited bachelor of business administration programs, eight of which are available online. Distance learners in UHD's business program can pursue specializations such as general business, insurance and risk management, and international business.
Prospective UHD students should meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid. The average degree-seekers receives a financial aid award package of $8,649. Learners can also take advantage of the school's career services and academic advising to chart a degree path that suits their professional goals.
The University of Houston-Downtown at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 93%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Undergrad Tuition (In State): $5,673
Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $15,561
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $42,500
#20 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
John Brown University
Siloam Springs, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
John Brown University (JBU) in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, delivers rigorous education with a Christian worldview. The school's 52 bachelor's programs include five online options. Incorporating foundational and advanced coursework and experiential learning opportunities, JBU's online bachelor of business administration (BBA) program emphasizes leadership, creativity, and community engagement. Students prepare for the demands of a business career or for graduate studies in the field.
BBA candidates can benefit from institutional resources such as JBU's career development center throughout their studies. Enrollees can also take advantage of financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, depending on eligibility.
John Brown University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 59%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Undergrad Tuition: $27,048
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $45,300
Online Bachelor's in Business Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Choosing an Online Program
Prospective students should take time to evaluate multiple options before committing to a program. Visit the link below to learn about important factors to consider throughout your selection process.
What to Expect From a Bachelor's in Business Program?
Students pursuing an online bachelor's degree in business can often choose from a variety of courses and concentrations. Offerings vary by program. Below, you can explore a few common courses and concentrations often found in online business degree programs.
Business Degree Concentrations
Marketing
This concentration teaches students how to identify marketing opportunities and develop and launch appropriate, forward-thinking business strategies. Courses cover topics like market research, consumer behavior, international marketing, and marketing communications. Graduates may work in areas such as advertising, sales management, distribution, and business marketing.
Finance
This concentration gives students knowledge and skills applicable to careers in corporate finance, real estate, international finance, banking, and investments. Courses cover topics like financial markets, financial analysis and planning, accounting, and risk management.
Economics
This concentration teaches students to research and analyze economic data and trends. With these skills, graduates can create economic forecasts and reports to advise companies on business policies and strategies. Common courses include intermediate micro- and macroeconomics, capital markets, and international economics.
Management
A management concentration is a popular choice for many undergraduate business students. Common areas of study include organizational behavior, negotiation, entrepreneurship, and human resource management. Graduates can pursue managerial roles in diverse industries.
International Business
This concentration examines international business concepts and perspectives. Common courses include international accounting and finance, management in a global economy, and cultural environments of international business. The concentration may also include study abroad experiences and foreign language courses.
Bachelor's in Business Degree Curriculum
- Business Law: A course in business law explores the nature and function of law in a business environment. Learners study the legal system, various types of law, consumer issues, and contract formation and breaches.
- Principles of Management: This course provides an introduction to the basic managerial functions of planning, organizing, and leading businesses. Students learn to effectively lead employees by understanding individual needs and motivations. They often apply course concepts to practical workplace scenarios to study the roles and responsibilities of managers.
- Financial Management: This course examines the role of financial managers in large corporations, small businesses, and new business endeavors. Coursework covers topics like financial analysis, forecasting, asset and liability management, and fundraising.
Business Careers
Graduates with an online business bachelor's degree can pursue a variety of roles across diverse industries. The following list outlines popular careers for business graduates, including common duties and potential salaries.
Management Analysts
| Median Salary (2019): $85,260 | Projected Job Growth (2019-2029): 26% |
Management analysts, sometimes called management consultants, make recommendations to improve organizational efficiency. Many management consultants work as contractors rather than full-time employees. They may specialize in areas like healthcare or telecommunications.
Management analysts work closely with an organization's managers. Common tasks include interviewing and observing personnel, analyzing financial data, and developing solutions to problems.
Entry-level management analysts typically need at least a bachelor's degree and several years of relevant work experience, and some employers prefer to hire candidates with an MBA. These professionals benefit from strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Accountants
| Median Salary (2019): $71,550 | Projected Job Growth (2019-2029): 6% |
Accountants provide financial services for individual and corporate clients. They may examine financial records for accuracy and compliance with regulations, prepare tax returns, assess financial operations, and make suggestions to enhance revenue or reduce costs.
Accountants may specialize in a certain area, such as providing services to the general public, aiding internal business operations, or working on behalf of government agencies.
Entry-level accountants typically need a bachelor's degree. This career requires keen analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
Human Resources Specialists
| Median Salary (2019): $61,920 | Projected Job Growth (2019-2029): 5% |
Human resources specialists work for an organization's HR department, interviewing job applicants, contacting references, aiding with new employee orientation, and processing paperwork and employment records. They may also process payroll, administer benefits, and handle employee questions or problems.
This career typically requires a bachelor's degree in business, human resources, or a related field. Some positions may require previous work experience in an HR department or in customer service.
Human resources specialists can pursue certification through organizations like the Society for Human Resource Management. They benefit from strong communication and decision-making skills.
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