Best Online Bachelor’s in Entrepreneurship

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Updated October 18, 2023

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A bachelor's degree in entrepreneurship offers an excellent way to jumpstart your entrepreneurial career, reach personal goals, and develop business ideas.

Entrepreneurs develop innovative ideas for products and services. They create business plans, secure financing, and launch new business ventures. An entrepreneurship degree builds foundational training in marketing, management, and finance. Entrepreneurship majors also learn how to transform their business ideas into realities.

This versatile degree helps graduates launch careers in diverse sectors like business, finance, healthcare, technology, and education. After earning their degrees, graduates can pursue careers as entrepreneurs, consultants, and venture capitalists.

While many business schools offer entrepreneurship courses, they may not offer bachelor's degrees in entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship majors who choose online colleges can widen their options to find the right program for their interests and goals.

This page ranks the top online bachelor's in entrepreneurship programs. Prospective entrepreneurship majors can use these rankings to find the best program and advance their careers.

The Best Online Bachelor's in Entrepreneurship Programs

  1. Lynn University
    Location

    Boca Raton, FL

    Founded in 1962, Lynn offers an online bachelor of science in entrepreneurship. Students can complete the program in about four years.

    The program prepares students to launch a new business or grow an existing one. Course topics include management and leadership, finance and economics, mergers and acquisitions, and business analytics.

    Students can apply for one of three start dates per year. The school allows students to transfer up to 75% of the credits required to complete the degree. Applicants must possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent to qualify for admission. Transfer students with more than 12 credits must submit transcripts from any previously attempted coursework.

  2. Northwood University
    Location

    Midland, MI

    Founded in 1959, NU offers an online bachelor's degree in entrepreneurship. Students complete 126 credits without needing to come to campus.

    Course topics include principles of management, fundamentals of managerial accounting, entrepreneurial marketing, new venture finance, and business law. Students must also complete general courses such as statistics, ethics, an introduction to American government, and environmental science.

    Applicants need a high school diploma or GED equivalent. The school also requires students to submit SAT or ACT scores for eligibility.

  3. Lamar University
    Location

    Beaumont, TX

    Tuition

    $11510

    Founded in 1923, LU offers an online bachelor of business administration in entrepreneurship. Students can complete the program in as few as 48 months.

    Courses emphasize data analytics and technology for future entrepreneurs. Students take business core classes for introductions to finance, accounting, economics, marketing, and information systems. Electives focus on helping entrepreneurs develop ideas into products and start a business.

    Classes start in June, August, and October. Each online course block lasts eight weeks. Incoming freshmen qualify for unconditional admission with a diploma from an accredited high school, 14 credits in college preparatory courses, and a minimum SAT score of 1080 (ACT score of 21). Students can also qualify by graduating in the top 50% of their class or completing 18 college credits with a minimum GPA of 2.0.

  4. Columbia College
    Location

    Columbia, MO

    Founded in 1851, CC offers an online bachelor of science in innovation and entrepreneurship. Students complete 120 credits without needing to set foot on campus.

    Core coursework requirements include classes in accounting, macroeconomics, microeconomics, international business, and business law. Required courses for the major include small business finance, introduction to human resource management, and strategic marketing. Learners must also complete a series of electives to complete the degree.

    The school allows students to transfer up to 90 credits toward their degree. Applicants need a high school diploma, GED equivalent, or six credits of prior college coursework from an accredited institution.

  5. Franklin University
    Location

    Columbus, OH

    Founded in 1902, Franklin offers an online bachelor of science in entrepreneurship. Students can complete the program in about four years, with a generous transfer credit policy offering eligible students an accelerated path.

    In addition to general education and elective requirements, students must complete foundational courses in entrepreneurship, including business law, principles of finance, and marketing. Required courses for the major include foundations of entrepreneurship, commercialization of entrepreneurial products and services, and managing micro business and generating funding. Students must also complete an entrepreneurship capstone course and required electives to complete the degree.

    The school allows students to transfer up to 94 eligible credits toward their degree, including up to 28 credits for previously earned certifications, licensure, or employment.

Best Online Bachelor's

Online Bachelor's in Entrepreneurship 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.

Featured Online Bachelor's in Entrepreneurship Programs

What Is an Online Bachelor's in Entrepreneurship Degree?

An online bachelor's in entrepreneurship degree trains learners to launch new business ventures, secure investors, develop innovative business ideas, and expand current businesses. The degree emphasizes creativity, innovation, and management skills. Through focused coursework, undergrads strengthen their data analysis and leadership abilities. Bachelor's in entrepreneurship degrees also build strong public speaking and problem-solving skills.

An online learning format's added flexibility may appeal to busy learners. By choosing online entrepreneurship programs, degree-seekers can earn degrees while working or managing personal responsibilities. Students who want to attend top programs without relocating may also prefer distance learning.

What Is the Difference Between a Bachelor's in Entrepreneurship and a Bachelor's in Business Administration?

Undergraduates considering entrepreneurship degrees may wonder about the differences between bachelor of arts in entrepreneurship and bachelor's in business administration (BBA) degrees. Both programs offer core business classes, including coursework in accounting, finance, marketing, and management. Both degrees take around four years for full-time students and can lead to business administration jobs.

However, an entrepreneurship degree offers a more focused curriculum for students interested in establishing new ventures. Entrepreneurship coursework trains learners in small business management, venture capital, and innovation. Students can often take specialized entrepreneurship courses in BBA programs that offer a concentration in entrepreneurship.

Choosing an Online Program

The process of choosing an online college requires research and introspection. The right fit varies depending on each applicant's unique needs and career goals. When researching online programs, prospective applicants should consider factors such as accreditation, cost, and program options. Distance learners can explore whether schools feature synchronous or asynchronous course options, tuition discounts, and specializations.

What to Expect From an Entrepreneurship Major

Entrepreneurship majors build strong business and management skills. The degree emphasizes analytical and problem-solving abilities that graduates apply when founding new businesses or growing established businesses. Undergraduates in a entrepreneurship degree program complete core business classes and specialized coursework in the major.

Enrollees also complete general education requirements to strengthen communication, critical thinking, and writing skills. Common entrepreneurship courses cover small business management, new venture financing, and growing sustainable ventures.

Assignments often include projects such as analyzing a proposed venture or creating a business plan. Many programs incorporate a capstone project with experiential learning components.

Entrepreneurship Curriculum

  • Finance and Accounting: Finance and accounting classes teach students to examine financial statements, make strategic financial decisions, and evaluate investment choices. Entrepreneurs rely on their finance and accounting training to run their businesses.
  • Public Speaking: Public speaking courses build strong communication skills. Learners explore research-based methods to enhance engagement and communicate clearly.
  • Marketing: Enrollees explore consumer behavior, competitor research, and promotion. In marketing courses, students learn about pricing strategy, product development, and marketing research. Marketing training helps entrepreneurs grow their businesses.
  • Business Management: Learners explore the principles of organizational behavior, management, and business administration. The course covers topics like planning, project management, and supervising teams. Entrepreneurship majors gain valuable management training.
  • Economics: Economics examines how individuals and organizations make financial decisions. Coursework introduces learners to microeconomics and macroeconomics, supply and demand, and scarcity and incentives.
  • Computer Science: Computer science courses introduce entrepreneurship majors to core concepts in programming, software development, and computer architecture. Computer science and IT courses may appeal to entrepreneurs looking to work in tech.

Entrepreneurship Careers

Entrepreneurship majors can pursue careers in business, consulting, marketing, public relations, finance, and tech. Entrepreneurs and small business owners work in every major industry. However, all entrepreneurs establish new businesses or help businesses grow.

The following list includes common entrepreneur careers and provides salary data. Entrepreneurship majors can also pursue many other in-demand business careers.

Common Careers for Entrepreneurs
Career Median Annual Wage (2020)
Advertising and Promotions Managers $147,560
Public Relations and Fundraising Managers $135,580
Personal Financial Advisors $122,490
Web Developers and Digital Interface Designers $85,490
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Business Permits and Licenses

New businesses must follow licensure and permit rules in their local areas. Entrepreneurs must consider best practices and legal requirements before establishing businesses.

Businesses must apply for licenses to operate in every state. Some cities and counties also require specific business licenses. This license authorizes the owner to operate their business legally. An entrepreneur can usually apply online and submit a fee to receive their business license.

Some businesses also need additional licenses. Professionals who work in certain fields, including many clinical roles, require specialized licensure from the state. Similarly, some roles may require permits, particularly in construction or architecture.

A business license differs from an LLC or business entity. Entrepreneurs should consider their options when incorporating their businesses. A lawyer or accountant can advise entrepreneurs on structuring their businesses.

Entrepreneurship Organizations

USASBE advocates for small businesses and entrepreneurs. The association hosts an annual conference, promotes entrepreneurship education, and connects entrepreneurs. USASBE also hosts a job board. The Forum supports women entrepreneurs. Members benefit from mentorship opportunities, educational programs, and a collaborative community. The Forum also hosts events, offers special programs, and publishes a podcast. NASE dates back to 1981. Today, the association provides expert advice and resources for self-employed workers. NASE offers articles, guides, and newsletters for entrepreneurs and other self-employed individuals. NFIB brings together independent businesses. The federation features a law center for members to receive legal advice. Members also benefit from research into small businesses, reports on workplace requirements, and professional development resources.

Frequently Asked Questions About an Online Bachelor's in Entrepreneurship

How Long Does It Take to Get a Degree in Entrepreneurship?

A bachelor's in entrepreneurship degree typically takes four years for full-time students to complete. Transfer students and individuals in accelerated programs can earn their degrees in less time.

Is Entrepreneurship a Good Career?

Entrepreneurs work in a creative and innovative field. Many find entrepreneurship rewarding and lucrative. Entrepreneurs can pursue diverse professional opportunities.

Is Entrepreneurship the Same as a Business Major?

An entrepreneurship major earns their degree from their college's business school, making it a business major. Many colleges offer entrepreneurship as a specialization within business administration.

Can I Get a Bachelor's Degree in Entrepreneurship?

Yes. Many colleges offer a bachelor's degree in entrepreneurship for students interested in establishing new businesses or working in venture financing. Some schools offer entrepreneurship as a business administration concentration.

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