Best Online Business Degrees
Updated October 20, 2023
Reviewed by
Our Integrity Network
TheBestSchools.org is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.
Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:
- Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
- Provide specific, corrective feedback.
- Identify critical information that writers may have missed.
Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for TheBestSchools.org as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.
Online Business Degrees
Earning a bachelor's in business online is a great way to start a career. Business is the most popular major in higher education. Earning a business administration degree online can lead to careers in business. For example, graduates can apply for jobs in management and finance. Graduates can also earn master of business administration (MBA) degrees.
There are more than eight million business and finance professionals in the U.S. Most work in executive management and financial management positions. These workers earned a median annual wage of $86,080 in 2023. That number is above the national average salary for all occupations. Top executives are among the highest earners, especially chief executives, who earned a median income of $100,090 in 2023.
Online business programs offer concentrations like human resources (HR), sports, and healthcare management. Graduates can pursue corporate positions and entrepreneurship. The following schools are among the nation's best online business degrees.
Featured Business Degree Programs
What Is an Online Business School Degree?
Students who earn online bachelor's in business administration (BBA) degrees can find jobs in management and finance. Bachelor-level business administration degrees qualify graduates for entry-level jobs. Graduates interested in executive positions may need MBAs.
Online business degrees help students develop management skills. Employers consistently rank marketing, sales, and business analytics among the most desirable job skills. These skills are all covered in business administration programs. Online business degrees also offer concentrations in management, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
What Is the Difference Between a BBA, BSBA, and BABA?
Students who are pursuing online bachelor's degrees in business administration can choose from three types of degrees: BBA, bachelor of science in business administration (BSBA), or bachelor of arts in business administration (BABA).
BBA programs usually focus on business and management principles, while BSBA programs emphasize technical skills, like mathematics, statistics, and science. BABA programs balance business basics with general education courses. All three degrees can lead to successful business careers.
Choosing an Online Bachelor's in Business Administration Program
There are several factors to consider when choosing an online business administration degree. First, make sure the program is an accredited business degree. Without accreditation, your degree might not be recognized by employers or graduate schools.
Next, check that the program offers concentrations that match your career goals. Also, make sure the learning format — synchronous or asynchronous works for your schedule. Schools typically offer a variety of concentrations and enrollment options for online business degrees. You can learn more about common considerations for distance learners at the links below.
The Best Online Bachelor's in Business Administration Degrees
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 Best Online Business Degrees
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers 63 bachelor's programs across its campus in Manchester and its online learning division. For students interested in the business field, the school's online bachelor's degree in business administration may be a wise choice. Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, this 120-credit program features 14 available concentrations. Business administration graduates can pursue industry-relevant careers or go on to study at the graduate level.
SNHU enrollees benefit from institutional support throughout their studies. Learners can meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss funding opportunities, including scholarships and grants.
Southern New Hampshire University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 94%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21-to-1
Undergrad Tuition: $9,600
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $43,300
#2 Best Online Business Degrees
Texas A&M University-Central Texas
Killeen, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in hybrid education, Texas A&M University-Central Texas (A&M-Central Texas) supports 27 bachelor's programs, 8 of which are available online. The university's AACSB International-accredited online bachelor of business administration (BBA) in management helps equip learners with the skills needed to succeed in a managerial career. Students can apply their knowledge and skill set to graduate-level studies in business administration. A&M-Central Texas also offers BBAs in human resource management and marketing, along with a transfer-friendly bachelor of applied science in business with several concentrations.
A&M-Central Texas supports attendees through institutional resources like career services and academic advising. Degree-seekers can meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss funding opportunities and determine scholarship eligibility. The school reports that enrollees receive $8,032 in financial aid on average.
Texas A&M University-Central Texas at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 92%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Undergrad Tuition (In State): $6,425
Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $16,241
#3 Best Online Business Degrees
Pacific Oaks College
Pasadena, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Pacific Oaks College, located in Pasadena, California, educates students online and on campus. The college's BS in business administration helps prepare degree-seekers for the demands of the global business administration field through rigorous study and a required international field experience. This program also prepares graduates for the discipline needed to complete advanced degree studies.
Pacific Oaks students seeking professional, academic, and financial guidance benefit from career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources. Learners seeking to defray their degree costs can meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss funding opportunities and scholarship eligibility.
Pacific Oaks College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 27%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6-to-1
Undergrad Tuition: $11,482
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $39,500
#4 Best Online Business Degrees
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Liberty University, a Lynchburg, Virginia-based Christian institution, delivers in-person and online education across 93 bachelor's degrees. The school's BS in business administration prepares learners to pursue business careers through rigorous study, relevant coursework, and practical learning opportunities. Graduates can enter the workforce or pursue further education, such as a master's degree. Liberty's online business program features multiple concentration options, most of which hold accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
Students at Liberty can benefit from institutional resources throughout their studies. Enrollees may qualify for financial aid opportunities such as scholarships and fellowships.
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
#5 Best Online Business Degrees
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Oklahoma State University (OSU) operates a main campus in Stillwater, offering a total of 90 bachelor's programs in both face-to-face and online formats. The school's online bachelor of science in business administration offers five concentrations: general business, management science and information systems, entrepreneurship, finance, and marketing. Students can apply their learning to various business careers or toward a graduate degree.
Depending on eligibility, students can benefit from financial aid funding. The average OSU undergraduate receives $9,148 in financial aid.
Oklahoma State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 67%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Undergrad Tuition (In State): $5,357
Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $20,877
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $42,600
#6 Best Online Business Degrees
Indian River State College
Fort Pierce, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Indian River State College (IRSC) boasts a robust learning environment, supporting both in-person and online education modalities across 16 bachelor's programs. The online bachelor's degree in business administration connects learners with industry-relevant knowledge and skills. Graduates can seek entry-level jobs or apply their knowledge to further studies in business administration, such as an MBA.
Throughout the fully online program, business majors benefit from institutional supports like IRSC's career development program. Students seeking to defray their educational costs can meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss funding opportunities and determine eligibility. The average financial aid award for IRSC enrollees is $6,330.
Indian River State College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 25-to-1
Undergrad Tuition (In State): $2,496
Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $9,360
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $27,900
#7 Best Online Business Degrees
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Kennesaw State University in Georgia supports both in-person and online learning formats across 89 bachelor's degrees. Individuals seeking flexible study relevant to the business field can benefit from the school's online bachelor of business administration (BBA) with a major in management. Online learners can also choose a business major in marketing or information security and assurance. Graduates of any of Kennesaw State's BBA programs can apply their knowledge and skill sets to master's-level studies in business administration.
Business administration students can access institutional supports throughout the 120-credit program. Eligible degree-seekers may benefit from financial aid opportunities such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants. Kennesaw State reports that 92% of all its enrollees receive some form of financial aid, with an average award package of $6,110.
Kennesaw State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 83%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1
Undergrad Tuition (In State): $4,450
Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $15,704
#8 Best Online Business Degrees
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Daytona Beach, FL - 4 years
- Online
Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's distance learning division, Embry-Riddle Worldwide, offers 17 bachelor's programs online and at its global network of learning centers. The online BS in aviation business administration teaches foundational business knowledge and competencies with a focus on the aviation field. After graduating, students can pursue careers or postgraduate study.
Throughout their studies, Embry-Riddle undergraduates can access institutional resources geared toward student success. Learners can meet with the university's financial aid office to explore funding options.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 63%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Undergrad Tuition: $10,296
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $51,400
#9 Best Online Business Degrees
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Corvallis, Oregon State University (OSU) provides in-person and remote learning opportunities. The public university's 88 bachelor's degrees include an online business administration program with both BS and BA tracks. This AACSB International-accredited program can help students advance in diverse careers or apply their knowledge to further studies in business administration, such as a master's degree.
Undergraduates benefit from institutional support in areas like academic advising and career counseling. Prospective applicants can connect with financial aid counselors to explore funding opportunities, determine scholarship eligibility, and apply for student loans. OSU reports that 88% of all enrollees receive financial aid, with an average aid package of $6,110.
Oregon State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 82%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Undergrad Tuition (In State): $9,846
Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $29,445
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $42,700
#10 Best Online Business Degrees
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, MD - 4 years
- Online
Learners seeking flexible study can enroll in fully online bachelor's programs at University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC). The school's bachelor's in business administration introduces participants to foundational business skills and knowledge while building widely applicable competencies like communication and critical thinking. Alumni of the business administration program can transition to a master's program after their undergraduate studies.
UMGC students can connect with the university's financial aid office to explore funding opportunities such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal grants and loans. The college reports that 55% of its degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid, with $3,784 being the average award package.
University of Maryland Global Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition (In State): $7,200
Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $11,976
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $47,700
#11 Best Online Business Degrees
St. Petersburg College
Clearwater, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The offerings at Florida-based St. Petersburg College (SPC) include in-person and remote learning opportunities across 19 bachelor's degrees. The school's bachelor of applied science in management and organizational leadership is an ideal choice for students seeking managerial and entrepreneurial careers. The program features several concentrations, including sports management and sustainability and green management.
SPC supports degree-seekers with career services, academic advising, and college funding guidance. Learners can connect with the college's office of financial aid to explore funding opportunities such as scholarships, grants, and federal financial aid. The average SPC enrollee receives a financial aid award package of $9,042.
St. Petersburg College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 23-to-1
Undergrad Tuition (In State): $1,943
Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $7,774
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $31,700
#12 Best Online Business Degrees
Walden University
Minneapolis, MN - 4 years
- Online
Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Walden University, a private online institution, provides 20 bachelor's degree options. The school's fully remote BS in business administration features nine concentrations, equipping participants with industry-relevant knowledge and skills needed to succeed in diverse business careers. Learners can pursue a general business track or choose among specializations such as management, small business management, or information systems. The program helps prepare students for their postgraduate paths, whether that be a business career or further study.
Walden enrollees enjoy online access to resources like career services and academic advising. The university's financial aid office can help degree-seekers develop an educational budget and connect with funding opportunities.
Walden University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition: $10,139
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $46,100
#13 Best Online Business Degrees
Trine University
Fort Wayne, IN - 4 years
- Online
Located in Angola, Indiana, Trine University supports both in-person and remote study across 16 bachelor's degrees. Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, the university's online BS in business administration with a major in management caters to students seeking business leadership positions. Trine's bachelor's program in business also prepares learners for further educational pursuits, such as graduate studies. Undergraduate enrollees can earn credit toward an MBA or a master of science in business analytics through the university's combined degree program.
Institutional student support resources at Trine include career services and academic advising. Prospective applicants can meet with financial aid counselors to discuss funding opportunities, explore available scholarships, and determine aid eligibility.
Trine University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 39%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 7-to-1
Undergrad Tuition: $9,576
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $40,000
#14 Best Online Business Degrees
The University of Texas Permian Basin
Odessa, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB), based in Odessa, offers 32 bachelor's programs to its on-campus and online enrollees. The school's rigorous bachelor of business administration (BBA) in management features 120 credits of relevant coursework and an optional concentration in operations management. Accredited by AACSB International, this undergraduate business degree can prepare participants to pursue management careers or go on to study at the graduate level. UTPB offers a 4+1 bachelor's-to-master's program for BBA candidates planning to earn an MBA.
UTPB nurtures student success through resources such as career services and academic advising. The college helps eligible learners connect with educational funding sources, including scholarships and fellowships. The institution reports that 95% of its enrollees receive aid, with an average financial aid package of $11,509.
The University of Texas Permian Basin at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 88%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Undergrad Tuition (In State): $2,530
Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $7,438
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $44,800
#15 Best Online Business Degrees
Fresno Pacific University
Fresno, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Fresno Pacific University (FPU), a private Christian school, delivers 91 bachelor's degrees online and at several California campuses. FPU's BA in business administration with an emphasis in management is one of the university's many online degree-completion programs. Other available emphases for business students include organizational leadership and project management. Focused on preparing graduates to enter the job market or pursue further education, FPU's School of Business is a candidate for accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
FPU's online enrollees can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources throughout their studies. Applicants can connect with financial aid counselors to explore funding opportunities, determine scholarship eligibility, and apply for student loans.
Fresno Pacific University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 67%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Undergrad Tuition: $32,954
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $38,400
#16 Best Online Business Degrees
Clarks Summit University
Clarks Summit, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private Christian institution located in Pennsylvania, Clarks Summit University (CSU) delivers 28 bachelor's degrees, 2 of which are available online. The university's online BS in business administration features a double major in biblical studies, equipping enrollees with industry-relevant knowledge and skills from a faith-based perspective. Business administration graduates can pursue various administrative, entrepreneurial, and managerial roles or continue their studies at the graduate level.
CSU's institutional resources center student success. Financial aid counselors help enrollees maximize funding opportunities, identify available scholarships, and determine aid eligibility.
Clarks Summit University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 62%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $26,082
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $26,500
#17 Best Online Business Degrees
Aspen University
Denver, CO - 4 years
- Online
Learners seeking flexible study can choose from many online bachelor's degree options at Aspen University. The school's bachelor of science in business administration combines liberal arts and business coursework and features a degree-completion format option. Graduates can enter the workforce or pursue further education.
The school's financial aid office can assist students in connecting with funding opportunities, such as loans and employer assistance. Aspen University holds institutional accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission.
Aspen University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8-to-1
Undergrad Tuition: $4,545
#18 Best Online Business Degrees
Ottawa University
Surprise, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Surprise, Arizona, Ottawa University (OU) facilitates in-person and online learning across 22 bachelor's degrees. This private Christian university's online bachelor of science in business administration program features foundational business coursework that builds career-relevant skills in key areas like communication, ethical decision-making, and operational management. Business administration students can pivot to a master's degree after their undergraduate studies. This program holds accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
OU enrollees can access career services, academic advising, and other success-focused resources while enrolled in this fully online program. Learners can connect with the school's financial aid office to explore funding opportunities such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid.
Ottawa University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 28%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10-to-1
Undergrad Tuition: $28,000
#19 Best Online Business Degrees
Louisiana State University Shreveport
Shreveport, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Louisiana State University Shreveport (LSUS), a public institution, administers 28 bachelor's degrees through both in-person and online learning formats. One of the school's robust online division's many undergraduate degree options, LSUS's bachelor of science in business administration program holds accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Business degree-seekers study fundamental topics in the field such as management, marketing, and finance.
LSUS students benefit from institutional support staff, such as enrollment coaches and academic advisors. Prospective applicants can also connect with financial aid counselors to explore scholarships, grants, student loans, and other funding opportunities. LSUS reports that incoming enrollees receive an average of $10,090 in financial aid.
Louisiana State University Shreveport at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 83%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 28-to-1
Undergrad Tuition: $5,656
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $36,000
#20 Best Online Business Degrees
Charter Oak State College
New Britain, CT - 4 years
- Online
A fully online public college based in New Britain, Connecticut, Charter Oak State College provides remote learning opportunities for a diverse student body, including 12 bachelor's degree options. Individuals seeking the skills and knowledge needed for success in the business administration field can earn a bachelor's in business entirely online through Charter Oak. This program features five concentrations: general business, project management, human resources, organizational management, and small business. Business administration graduates can pursue graduate-level study or apply for a variety of professional roles.
Prospective applicants should meet with one of Charter Oak's financial aid counselors to determine their eligibility for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid. Fifty-seven percent of all learners at Charter Oak receive financial aid.
Charter Oak State College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Undergrad Tuition (In State): $7,656
Undergrad Tuition (Out of State): $10,056
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $48,200
Online Bachelor's in Business Administration Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
-
Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
We thank you for your readership and trust.
What Else Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor's in Business Administration Program?
Curricula vary by school. Many business administration degrees include core coursework in accounting, marketing, and communication. Concentrations usually include entrepreneurship, HR management, and international business. The following list explores popular courses and concentrations for students earning a business degree online.
Online Business Administration Curriculum
- Business Ethics and Law: This course explores legal and ethical issues of trade and commerce. Topics include limited liability companies, contract law, and international business.
- Leadership Theories and Application: Students examine the behaviors of successful leaders in business, finance, and management. They also develop their own philosophies of leadership. Coursework uses case studies to illustrate leadership theories.
- Accounting: Accounting coursework trains students in how to prepare and maintain financial reports, manage payrolls, and provide basic bookkeeping services. Topics can include financial, management, corporate, or tax accounting.
- Economics: Economics coursework covers both macro- and microeconomics. This includes exploring business analytics and economic theory and policies. Students learn how consumers interact with wealth.
- Marketing: This course explores practical and theoretical approaches to business marketing. Coursework covers advertising strategies, promotion development, social media marketing, and consumer research and analytics.
- Operations Management: Operations management includes supply chain management, project management, and quality compliance. All are essential functions for manufacturing, industrial, and general managers.
Online Bachelor of Business Degree Concentrations
Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship concentrations emphasize small business leadership, HR management, and financial accounting. They prepare students to build a business from the ground up. Programs also explore creativity and innovation, venture capital, multicultural markets, and new product planning. Most programs also include a practicum, which often means writing a business plan.
Information Systems
Information systems concentrations help students develop strong business and IT management skills. Industry-specific courses include application development, software quality, database systems, technological collaboration, and electronic commerce. Coursework also covers soft skills like teamwork, interpersonal relationships, and project management.
Accounting
This concentration prepares students to work as public, private, or government accountants. This concentration explores advanced statistics, micro and macroeconomics, and calculus. It also covers taxation, auditing, and cost management. Graduates qualify to sit for the CPA licensure exam.
Human Resources Management
HR management concentrations begin with core coursework in business communications, managerial accounting, and contemporary management practices. Advanced coursework covers employment relations; social, regulatory, and ethical issues in business; negotiation and conflict management; and leadership and organizational behavior.
Finance
This concentration is for students interested in financial management or investment analysis. Many programs have prerequisites in financial management. Coursework covers corporate finance, investment analysis, tax and regulatory environments, collection and disbursement, and fundraising. Some graduates pursue certified financial planner credentials.
Supply Chain Management
Concentrations in supply chain management are popular due to the globalization of business markets and practices. These programs focus on project management, supply chain analytics, and logistics management. They emphasize global sourcing and innovation, international aviation, and managerial economics.
Marketing
A marketing concentration can lead to positions in advertising, public relations, sales, or social media. Marketing bachelor's programs develop basic business skills in economics, statistics, and communications. They also explore modern consumer behavior, brand management, market research, and advertising strategies.
International Business
International business concentrations are more common with the rise of a global, internet-driven economy. This program builds on core business concepts in leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork, all taught from a global perspective. Coursework covers international business finance, global ethical leadership, international trade and policy, and international supply chain management.
Business Careers
Online business degrees are versatile, preparing students for many industries. Graduates of business programs can pursue roles in finance, accounting, sales, and analytics. These roles arise in many industries, including real estate, insurance, and public relations.
Below, you'll find some of the most popular careers for business graduates.
| Career | Median Pay |
|---|---|
| Accountants and Auditors | $78,000 |
| Advertising and Promotions Managers | $133,380 |
| Budget Analysts | $82,260 |
| Buyers and Purchasing Agents | $75,120 |
| Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists | $67,780 |
| Credit Analysts | $96,220 |
| Financial Examiners | $82,210 |
| Fundraisers | $61,190 |
| Human Resources Specialists | $64,240 |
| Insurance Underwriters | $76,230 |
| Management Analysts | $95,290 |
| Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists | $68,230 |
| Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners | $52,560 |
| Personal Financial Advisors | $95,390 |
| Project Management Specialists and Business Operations Specialists | $77,420 |
| Property Appraisers and Assessors | $58,650 |
| Purchasing Managers | $125,940 |
| Sales Managers | $132,290 |
| Tax Examiners | $57,950 |
| Training and Development Specialists | $63,080 |
Featured Business Degree Programs
Interview with an Expert
Alex Williams
Preferred Pronouns: He/Him
Alex Williams, the CFO of FindThisBest, got his bachelor's in business administration from California State University - Fullerton in 2015. His specialization in BBA was accounting and finance, and he took his CFA level 1 exam in 2016. Currently, he's working as a CFO at an eCommerce company.
What was your favorite aspect of earning a bachelor's in business administration degree?
The degree is well diversified, no matter where you get it from. You get to read up on a whole bunch of case studies and courses throughout your four years that make you think logically and critically about decision making. BBA doesn't just teach you how to be a good employee or lead the next Fortune 500 company; it just opens doors for you to really pursue something you're good at. Luckily I was good with numbers and I enjoyed finance courses, which is why I opted for the ACF (accounting and finance) major.
What should students interested in this subject be good at?
One thing that students should really be good at is critical thinking. Courses within BBA aren't your typical math or science courses, where you can use a specific formula to answer a question. Rather, you'll be given open-ended questions, and you'll have to rationalize your answer. As long as you're good at thinking objectively and looking at the bigger picture, you're going to excel at this.
Are there any advantages to studying business administration online as opposed to in a traditional brick-and-mortar setting?
The advantage would definitely be that your assignments and projects will be more remote, and you'll have to work in teams to get the job done. This is truly how things work in the real world — even before the pandemic struck. Therefore, this degree truly gives you a glimpse into the real world before you even step foot in it.
What makes business administration such a versatile degree?
Its versatility stems from the fact that you're not limited to just one area of business. You get to study a whole variety — from supply chain management to data science for decision-making. Over time, you'll find something you're good at and excel at it — at least, that was the case in my undergraduate degree.
Common Questions About Business Degrees
Is a Bachelor's in Business a Good Degree?
Yes. Earning a bachelor's in business leads to interesting careers with steady job growth and high salary potential. Students can become entrepreneurs or work in a corporation. Earning a business degree online can be a smart career move.
What Jobs Can I Do With a Business Degree?
Business degree-holders can get jobs in finance and management, including roles as accountants, HR managers, and marketing specialists. They can also pursue master's degrees and executive-level positions.
What Is the Highest Paying Business Job?
Advertising or sales managers earn the highest salary rates among business professionals, particularly at the executive level. Purchasing managers and personal financial advisors also earn high salaries.
Is a Degree in Business a BA or BS?
Schools may offer BA or BS programs in business. Though BS degrees are more common and cover more technical concepts, BAs offer a broader education and approach to business, including more liberal arts coursework in subjects like English, history, and communication.
What Is the Best Business Concentration?
All business concentrations have broad career applications, but students specializing in entrepreneurship, marketing, and finance tend to have the most employment options.
Learn more, do more.
More topic-relevant resources to expand your knowledge.
Popular with our students.
Highly informative resources to keep your education journey on track.
Take the next step toward your future with online learning.
Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.
