2020 Most Affordable Online Colleges for Business Degrees
An affordable online business degree can give students the professional skills needed to improve career opportunities. Graduates can pursue careers in fields such as general management, operations, or human resources. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for all business occupations in 2020 was $72,250, with an estimated 750,800 new jobs expected over the next decade.
The following is our ranking list of the most affordable online bachelor's degrees in business, along with detailed information about this degree.
You can read more about our ranked schools below or see our other business rankings. View our methodology or learn more about OnlineU.
| Rank | School | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Aspen University | $4,500 | |
| California Coast University | $4,725 | |
| Clayton State University | $5,490 | |
| Western Carolina University | $5,670 | |
| California State University-Channel Islands | $5,742 | |
| Georgia Southwestern State University | $5,970 | |
| University of the Cumberlands | $5,970 | |
| Southern Utah University | $6,006 | |
| Tarleton State University | $6,044 | |
| Valdosta State University | $6,060 | |
| Minot State University | $6,087 | |
| Kennesaw State University | $6,180 | |
| Western Governors University | $6,450 | |
| Columbus State University | $6,510 | |
| Wichita State University | $6,708 | |
| Union College - KY | $6,750 | |
| University of North Carolina at Pembroke | $6,752 | |
| Fort Hays State University | $6,778 | |
| Columbia Southern University | $6,900 | |
| Dickinson State University | $6,947 | |
| William Woods University | $7,050 | |
| Georgia Military College | $7,110 | |
| Mississippi University for Women | $7,424 | |
| Lamar University | $7,440 | |
| Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus | $7,492 |
Most Affordable Online Business Degrees by Program
| # 1 | Clayton State University Annual tuition: $5,490 |
| # 2 | Georgia Southwestern State University Annual tuition: $5,970 |
| # 2 | University of the Cumberlands Annual tuition: $5,970 |
| # 1 | University of North Carolina at Pembroke Annual tuition: $6,752 |
| # 2 | Fort Hays State University Annual tuition: $6,778 |
| # 3 | Columbia Southern University Annual tuition: $6,900 |
| # 1 | Fort Hays State University Annual tuition: $6,560 |
| # 2 | Columbia Southern University Annual tuition: $6,900 |
| # 3 | Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus Annual tuition: $7,492 |
| # 1 | Georgia Southwestern State University Annual tuition: $5,970 |
| # 2 | United States University Annual tuition: $6,000 |
| # 3 | Western Governors University Annual tuition: $6,450 |
| # 1 | California Coast University Annual tuition: $4,725 |
| # 2 | Great Basin College Annual tuition: $4,785 |
| # 3 | Clayton State University Annual tuition: $5,490 |
| # 1 | California Coast University Annual tuition: $4,725 |
| # 2 | Clayton State University Annual tuition: $5,490 |
| # 3 | Georgia Southwestern State University Annual tuition: $5,970 |
| # 1 | Georgia Southwestern State University Annual tuition: $3,855 |
| # 2 | Valdosta State University Annual tuition: $4,395 |
| # 3 | California Coast University Annual tuition: $4,485 |
| # 1 | Columbia Southern University Annual tuition: $6,900 |
| # 2 | College of Southern Nevada Annual tuition: $7,190 |
| # 3 | Amberton University Annual tuition: $7,950 |
| # 1 | Tennessee State University Annual tuition: $4,200 |
| # 2 | University of Iowa Annual tuition: $8,073 |
| # 3 | Southern New Hampshire University Online Annual tuition: $9,600 |
| # 1 | University of Central Arkansas Annual tuition: $4,875 |
| # 2 | Missouri State University Annual tuition: $5,015 |
| # 3 | Minot State University Annual tuition: $5,030 |
| # 1 | Clayton State University Annual tuition: $5,490 |
| # 2 | Kennesaw State University Annual tuition: $6,180 |
| # 3 | Georgia Military College Annual tuition: $7,110 |
| # 1 | Strayer University Annual tuition: $4,480 |
| # 2 | Southern Utah University Annual tuition: $7,097 |
| # 3 | Colorado State University Global Annual tuition: $7,500 |
Most Affordable Business College Details
For each school ranked above, we conducted manual research to provide prospective students with more details about the schools' business programs. Explore business class offerings, degrees offered, and accreditation information below.
Aspen University Denver (CO) Aspen University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration to first-year students and those with an associate degree (or at least 60 credits) looking to complete their bachelor's. The full program requires 40 courses and typically takes four years, while the completion program requires 20 courses and is usually completed in two years. The programs share an identical major curriculum, including classes such as Business Fundamentals, Organizational Behavior, and International... Business. Both programs culminate with a senior capstone project where students demonstrate their understanding of key business administration components, including communication, management, and organization. The Desire2Learn learning management system delivers online coursework, video lectures, message boards, discussion forums, and grades. Students will also use the platform to submit assignments. Classes are 100% virtual, with start dates every two weeks. Learning is asynchronous, and students can study at their own pace, taking between one to three courses at a time. Students can transfer up to 90 credits and earn credit for life and previous work experience. Resources for distance learners include academic advising and career and alumni services. Prospective students can apply online and must submit transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.0. Students with 15 or more college credits are not required to submit high school transcripts.
Example Classes: Business Information Systems, Business Research and Communications, Customer Relationship Management, Entrepreneurship, Ethical Decision Making for Business, Organizational Behavior Online Bachelor's Degrees
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California Coast University Santa Ana (CA) California Coast University's online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration requires 42 courses for a total of 126 credits. Students take 14 general education courses, 14 core courses, and 14 electives. Core courses include Introduction to Business, Principles of Accounting, Business Communications, Business Law, and Project Management. The curriculum delivers a foundation in business principles, with a focus on key components, including management, communications, and operations. Students... work independently and at their own pace, though the degree must be completed within five years. The Coast Connection student portal manages course materials, communication between students and instructors, assignments, and grades. Students can expect to submit papers and take quizzes, although there are no set exam dates. Students can transfer up to 93 credits from previous institutions. Credits can also be earned for previous training, experiential learning, and challenge exams, where students prove their competency in a subject. Support is available through virtual student services that include a writing lab, library resources, and comprehensive study guides. Prospective students must submit an application, a resume, official transcripts, and include any relevant training. This information is reviewed, and a proposed enrollment agreement is sent to the applicant for approval. Admissions take place year-round, and the entire process takes as little as one week.
Example Classes: Business and Society, Computing Concepts, Consumer Behavior, Information Management, Introduction to Financial Management, Organizational Theory and Behavior Online Bachelor's Degrees
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Clayton State University Morrow (GA) Clayton State University's 120-credit online Bachelor of Business Administration offers majors in General Business, Accounting, Management, Marketing, and Supply Chain Management. Program participants take the same core curriculum, general education, and upper-level requirements, then diverge for major-specific courses, electives, and a capstone project. The program length is dependent on individual course load and transfer credits. An internship is not required but is encouraged, and there are also... study abroad opportunities. Students in the Accounting track can gain hands-on experience through the school’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program. Brightspace by Desire2Learn is the learning management system used by Clayton State. While students complete their assignments independently, certain classes may require synchronous attendance. Coursework may include readings, papers, exams, group discussions, and interactive virtual activities. Online learners pay a reduced eTuition rate that removes charges for on-campus amenities. Distance learners have access to career services, academic advising, counseling, and library resources. Students may apply for admission in the fall, spring, or summer. Applicants must submit an application, academic transcripts, and minimum ACT or SAT scores. Transfer students with less than 30 credits who graduated from high school fewer than five years ago are eligible for admission if they have at least a 2.0 GPA.
Example Classes: Business Ethics, Corporate Finance, Legal Environment of Business, Managerial Communications, Performance Quality Management, Strategic Management Online Bachelor's Degrees
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Western Carolina University Cullowhee (NC)
Example Classes: Business Ethics and Corporate Responsibility, Business Organization, Contracts and Sales, Legal Aspects of Managing Technology, Litigation in Business Online Bachelor's Degrees
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California State University-Channel Islands Camarillo (CA)
Example Classes: Applied Managerial Accounting, Business Finance, Business Operations, Management Information Systems, Principles Of Marketing Online Bachelor's Degrees
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Georgia Southwestern State University Americus (GA)
Example Classes: Business Statistics, Communications in Business Environment, Introduction to International Business, Microcomputer Application in Business, Principles of Management, Quantitative Management Online Bachelor's Degrees
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University of the Cumberlands Williamsburg (KY)
Example Classes: Business Policy and Strategy, Business Statistics, Financial Management, Legal Environment of Business, Principles of Accounting, Principles of Management Online Bachelor's Degrees
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Southern Utah University Cedar City (UT)
Example Classes: Business, Government, and Ethics, Managerial Economics, Operations Management, Strategic Management, Supply Chain and Logistics Management Online Bachelor's Degrees
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Tarleton State University Stephenville (TX)
Example Classes: Business Analysis using Spreadsheets, Business Communications, Business Statistics, Human Resource Management, Management Information Systems Online Bachelor's Degrees
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Valdosta State University Valdosta (GA)
Example Classes: Business Policy, Human Resources Management, International Management, Management Information Systems, Operations Management Online Bachelor's Degrees
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Minot State University Minot (ND)
Example Classes: Business Communication, Corporation Finance, International Business Strategy, Management Information Systems, Managerial Accounting Online Bachelor's Degrees
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Kennesaw State University Kennesaw (GA)
Example Classes: Commercial Real Estate Ventures, International Entrepreneurship, International Supply Chain Management, Managing People, Managing Projects Online Bachelor's Degrees
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Western Governors University Salt Lake City (UT)
Example Classes: Business Communication, Finance Skills for Managers, Innovative and Strategic Thinking, Principles of Accounting, Project Management Online Bachelor's Degrees
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Columbus State University Columbus (GA)
Example Classes: Business Law, Consumer Behavior, International Business, Managerial Finance, Principles of Information Technology Management, Quantitative Analysis for Business, Small Business Management, Strategic Management Online Bachelor's Degrees
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Wichita State University Wichita (KS)
Example Classes: Consumer Behavior, International Management, Legal Environment of Business, Management Information Systems, Strategic Management Online Bachelor's Degrees
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Union College - KY Barbourville (KY)
Example Classes: Business Communications, Business Essentials, Intermediate Technology Applications, Legal Environment of Business, Statistics Business Applications, Strategic Decision Making Online Bachelor's Degrees
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University of North Carolina at Pembroke Pembroke (NC)
Example Classes: Business Communications, Business Law & Ethics, Business Statistics, Business Strategy, Management Information Systems, Organization & Management Online Bachelor's Degrees
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Fort Hays State University Hays (KS)
Example Classes: Applied Management Skills, Production and Operations Management, Project/Program Management, Recruitment, Selection, & Retention, Total Quality Management, Training and Development Online Bachelor's Degrees
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Columbia Southern University Orange Beach (AL)
Example Classes: Business Ethics, Business Law, Business Policy and Strategy, Human Resource Management, Information Systems Management, Leadership Online Bachelor's Degrees
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Dickinson State University Dickinson (ND)
Example Classes: Business Ethics and Critical Thinking, Business Policy, Entrepreneurship, International Business, Management Information Systems Online Bachelor's Degrees
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William Woods University Fulton (MO)
Example Classes: Business Communications, Business Law, Entrepreneurship, Personal Finance, Principles of Management, Principles of Marketing Online Bachelor's Degrees
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Georgia Military College Milledgeville (GA)
Example Classes: Financial Management, Leadership, Managerial Accounting, Operations Management, Organizational Development Online Bachelor's Degrees
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Mississippi University for Women Columbus (MS)
Example Classes: Advanced Statistical Analysis for Business, Business Finance, Fundamentals of Success in Business, Operations Production Management, Organizational Communication, Spreadsheet Applications, Strategic Management Online Bachelor's Degrees
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Lamar University Beaumont (TX)
Example Classes: Business Environment and Public Policy, Economics of Entrepreneurship, Introduction to Critical Thinking in Business Decision Making, Quality and Productivity Management, Strategic Analysis Online Bachelor's Degrees
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Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus Portales (NM)
Example Classes: Business Research and Analysis, Business Strategy and Policy, Information Systems for Managers, Managerial Finance, Marketing Management, Organizational Behavior, Production and Operations Management Online Bachelor's Degrees
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How Much Does an Online Business Degree Cost?
The cost of an online bachelor's degree in business varies widely, depending on many factors. Most bachelor's degree programs require 120 credit hours to complete. Tuition rates for the most affordable options can cost anywhere from $18,000 to $30,000 based on a per credit cost of $150 to about $250 for the most affordable options on this list. Compare that to the per-credit cost for other online business bachelor's degree programs that can go as high as $1,343 for a total of $161,160 for the degree.
Other factors influencing per-credit fees are school type (public, private, or non-profit), degree format (online or in-person), and whether the student is paying in-state or out-of-state tuition. These amounts do not account for additional expenses, such as books, supplies, and technology, graduation, or other fees charged by most schools.
Students enrolled in online learning are also often eligible for financial assistance, such as scholarships and grants, that can help offset the expense of higher education. Active duty military members, veterans, and dependents may be entitled to tuition assistance at military-friendly schools. Some colleges partner with various organizations to offer tuition discounts to those organizations' members or employees, while others may consider work experience and prior learning credits to speed the process.
Unsure about pursuing a degree in business? Explore additional online programs.
Financial Aid for Online Business Students
Federal financial aid programs are open to on-campus and distance learning students at accredited online colleges and universities. Many students need some combination of federal, state, and school-sponsored aid to cover most of their expenses. Grants, such as the Pell grant and scholarships, are preferable because they are not repaid. However, your aid package may also include a student loan, which must be repaid with interest. Review the loan terms thoroughly before accepting, and keep in mind that federal student loans typically have better repayment terms than private student loans.
To apply for these types of financial aid, you should complete and submit the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA). Once this form has been reviewed, schools will notify you regarding your financial aid offers. According to the College Board, the average total award for undergraduate students is $14,800, although amounts vary dramatically based on students' individual circumstances.
There are also private scholarships that require separate applications because they are not included under FAFSA. In addition, non-profit organizations and for-profit businesses usually sponsor private scholarships.
Harvard Business Services Student Entrepreneur Scholarship
Harvard Business Services awards two $1,000 scholarships to business majors and entrepreneurs with a non-profit or for-profit business concept. Applicants must be at least 18 and attending an accredited university full-time.
The Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholars Program
JRF awards scholarships in varying amounts to minority high school seniors who demonstrate academic excellence and plan on attending a four-year accredited university. Recipients will also receive mentoring services and educational guidance throughout their academic career.
The League of United Latin American Citizens Scholarship Fund
LULAC awards three types of scholarships ranging from $250 to $2,000 to Hispanic students pursuing higher education. Students must have a 3.0 GPA or better to qualify. LULAC also partners with several large corporations to offer other scholarships and emergency funding from $500 to $20,000 to Hispanic students
For college affordability tips, students can check out our resources about paying for a college degree.
Online Business Courses
Business programs and online courses are designed to give students the basic knowledge and practical skills they'll need as professionals. To achieve this objective, students are often asked to engage in research, writing, group projects, and oral presentations, which are activities that simulate the types of work they might be asked to do on the job. In the process, students develop essential skills, such as analysis, problem-solving, collaboration, and verbal and written communication. Some students also pursue specializations, such as in finance or accounting, and take more courses in these areas.
In this course, students learn to use a professional tone and voice when writing different types of business correspondence, emails, reports, and other documents. They may also be required to create visual presentations, and to give oral presentations either individually or in groups. These projects allow students to learn the software programs commonly used in business.
This introductory course is designed to provide a broad overview of the many interrelated and often complex topics within human resources management. These include recruiting and hiring, training, compensation and benefits, legal issues, labor unions, and strategy. Students who are particularly interested in this subject may want to consider choosing HR management as a concentration so they can pursue this as a career.
Often the companion course to financial accounting, which covers basic accounting methods and bookkeeping, managerial accounting teaches students to understand, interpret, and make decisions based on an organization's financial records. There is typically a heavy emphasis on terminology, as well as the significance of accounting in terms of planning and budgeting.
Initially, students will be introduced to the basic components of marketing, often referred to as the "four Ps": product, promotion, price, and place (or distribution). As the course progresses, students learn how marketing efforts are used to build awareness and convert an organization's target audience into customers. Course materials also explain how marketing is related to other business functions, such as accounting, planning, operations, and production.
Typically one of the first classes in a business administration program, this course provides an overview of basic managerial functions. Course materials will cover a broad range of related subjects, including the business environment, corporate culture, decision making, goal setting, individual behavior, and organizational structure. Additional topics may include strategy, leadership, ethics, and international business.
Business Concentrations
Studying a specific subject area within a major may help you gain a competitive edge as you become an expert in a particular field. Choosing a concentration in a growth area could result in higher salaries and additional career opportunities.
There are several popular business concentrations to choose from, including finance, HR, marketing, logistics and supply chain management, and entrepreneurship. There is no additional coursework required — concentration courses often apply toward your major.
Career Options for Online Business Graduates
An online business bachelor's degree can equip you with the skills necessary for career success upon degree completion. Moreover, many of these jobs pay well in fields that have high growth expectancy.
Financial Managers
Median Annual Salary: $134,180
Job Outlook: 17%
Financial managers understand an organization's financial structure to help leaders make sound business decisions. They prepare financial statements and reports and monitor performance, ensuring an organization is meeting its legal financial obligations and goals.
HR Managers
Median Annual Salary: $121,220
Job Outlook: 9%
HR managers are the link between management and staff. They oversee recruitment and hiring, manage employee benefits and compensation programs, handle employee issues and complaints, and consult other managers on policy and procedure.
Logisticians and Supply Chain Managers
Median Annual Salary: $76,270
Job Outlook: 30%
Logisticians and supply chain managers work in fast-paced environments by managing the flow of goods and services. They oversee the purchasing, warehousing, and transportation of goods while managing inventory.
Accreditation
Accreditation ensures that a school has achieved a high academic standard of excellence, which is vital for schools to receive federal funding and for students to be able to utilize federal financial aid. There are three premier programmatic accrediting agencies for business programs: the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, and the International Accreditation Council for Business Education.
Is an Online Business Degree Worth It?
A review of the BLS's Occupational Outlook Handbook reveals that a bachelor's degree is required for nearly all business positions. These diverse entry-level opportunities range from engineering to construction to health services and apply to multiple business functions, including operations, information systems, and human resources.
Distance education provides flexibility with online classes, which may be more manageable with a busy schedule. Online programs can also be more affordable, thereby increasing the number of programs and price points you can choose from without having to relocate.
There are some other upsides to a business degree's worth:
High earning potential: Business operations and financial occupations have a median annual salary of $72,250 as of 2020, higher than the $41,310 for all occupations.
Entrepreneurship opportunities: A business degree helps students interested in starting businesses and being self employed to become entrepreneurs.
Conversely, there are also downsides:
Time-consuming and costly: Earning a degree takes a lot of time and work, often making it difficult to manage other obligations and responsibilities. In addition, some students incur debt that may take years to repay.
Highly competitive: There are many business program graduates in the job market because of the degree's popularity. It can be difficult to gain a competitive edge. You may need a master's degree to increase your career opportunities.
After earning your undergraduate degree in business, you may be curious about next steps. We've compiled a resource to help you determine whether pursuing an online MBA will be worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Affordable Online Business Degrees
A Bachelor of Arts in business emphasizes the "soft skills" many business professionals need, such as communication, leadership, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills. A Bachelor of Science in business emphasizes technical skills, such as accounting and finance, economics, statistics, and entrepreneurship. Many schools offer both business degrees.
Bachelor's degree programs in business are designed to take about four-years for full-time online students and longer for part-time students. Approximately 120 credit hours are needed to graduate. Those with an associate degree, prior work experience, or military training may be eligible for course credit, saving time and money.
The first thing to do is make sure the program or school is accredited. Also, consider how much time you can invest in learning online and whether the structure suits you. Many students review programs and share their experiences, which is a great way to get a feel for a program or school. LinkedIn, which often has alumni connected to the school page, can also be a great place to start networking and could lead to job opportunities.