2023 Most Affordable Online Colleges for Business Degrees
An online degree in business provides the foundation for you to learn the basic principles of business, which you'll likely need if you want to pursue further education or take on more advanced positions in the field. Prospective students can expect to take courses that cover a wide range of related topics, from analytics and business statistics to accounting and finance. If you are interested in pursuing similar degree programs online, you should also check out our rankings lists of the best online degrees in management and finance.
View our methodology for more details about rankings or learn more about us.
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| Rank | School | Locations | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Middle Georgia State University | Macon (GA) | $3,410 | |
| Ohio University - Main Campus | Athens (OH) | $3,645 | |
| Brigham Young University - Idaho | Rexburg (ID) | $3,888 | |
| North Seattle College | Seattle (WA) | $3,938 | |
| University of North Carolina at Pembroke | Pembroke (NC) | $5,074 | |
| California Coast University | Santa Ana (CA) | $5,355 | |
| Aspen University | Denver (CO) | $5,400 | |
| Columbus State University | Columbus (GA) | $5,464 | |
| Kennesaw State University | Kennesaw (GA) | $5,562 | |
| Clayton State University | Morrow (GA) | $5,694 |
| # 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 |
| # 4 | University of the Potomac Annual tuition: $7,785 |
| # 1 | Georgia Southwestern State University Annual tuition: $5,970 |
| # 3 | Western Governors University Annual tuition: $6,450 |
| # 4 | Wichita State University Annual tuition: $6,708 |
| # 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 |
Middle Georgia State University Macon (GA) Middle Georgia State University (MGA) is a public institution with a medium-sized student population, and it offers an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration requiring 120 credit hours. This program aims to provide a foundational understanding of traditional business methods and practices, which students can apply to future careers in business. The online program's core courses include Principles of Finance, Business Statistics, and Strategic Management. At MGA, online students complete coursework on Brightspace in an asynchronous format, meaning that students can study at their own pace. In addition, online students can access counseling, a writing center, IT support, and an online library. Admission requirements are an application, official ACT/SAT scores (optional), a completed FAFSA, and official transcripts.
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Ohio University - Main Campus Athens (OH) Ohio University - Main Campus is a large, public institution offering an online Bachelor of Science in Business through Ohio Online. The 120-credit program prepares students for human resources, marketing, and management careers. The degree's curriculum includes courses like Managing Systems and Projects, Consumer Marketing, and Topics in Business Ethics. At Ohio Online, faculty facilitate asynchronous online learning through the platform, Blackboard. Online student support includes academic advising, accessibility services, IT help, career services, counseling, an online library, tutoring, and a writing center. The program’s admission requirements are an application and a high school diploma or GED.
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Brigham Young University - Idaho Rexburg (ID) Brigham Young University - Idaho (BYU) is a large, private, nonprofit institution, and their mission is "to develop disciples of Jesus Christ who are leaders in their homes, the Church, and their communities." They offer an online Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Business Management that requires 120 credit hours. To apply, you must be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or have close ties to the church. To graduate, students must complete an introductory and an advanced certificate. At BYU, online students complete coursework asynchronously on the learning management system, Canvas. Business students can expect to develop their leadership, operations, finance, marketing, and analysis skills throughout the program. In addition, online students can access mentoring, advising, weekly online gatherings, and a help center.
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North Seattle College Seattle (WA) North Seattle College (North) is a public, medium institution offering an online Bachelor of Applied Science in International Business that totals 180 credit hours. This program provides students with the foundation to engage in international business relations for trade and logistics. A few of the program’s core courses include Business Law, Business and Economics Statistics, and Principles of Accounting. North's online students complete coursework that's delivered in both an asynchronous and synchronous format through Canvas. Remote students can access North's online library, advising and counseling services, disability support, and tutoring. The program’s admission requirements are an application, unofficial high school transcripts, and a request letter.
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University of North Carolina at Pembroke Pembroke (NC) The University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP) is a public, medium-sized institution offering an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. The program, which is 120 credit hours, helps students gain the skills to pursue entry-level careers in business or apply for graduate school in the field. Students can choose from six tracks: (1) Economics, (2) Entrepreneurship, (3) Finance, (4) International Business, (5) Management, and (6) Marketing. UNCP facilitates online learning on Canvas in an asynchronous and synchronous format. Online student support includes advising, an online library, tutoring, and a writing center. The program’s admission requirements are an application and official high school transcripts.
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California Coast University Santa Ana (CA) California Coast University (CCU) is a small, private, for-profit institution that offers an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration totaling 126 credits. The curriculum delivers the critical components of business principles, such as management, communications, and operations. Core courses include Introduction to Business, Principles of Accounting, Business Communications, Business Law, and Project Management. CCU's online students complete coursework in a synchronous format on the Coast Connection. Academic support is available through virtual student services that include a writing lab, library resources, and comprehensive study guides. Prospective students must submit a resume, official transcripts, and an application that mentions any relevant training.
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Aspen University Denver (CO) Aspen University (Aspen) — a for-profit institution with a medium-sized student population — offers an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. The full program requires 40 courses and typically takes four years, while the completion program requires 20 courses and usually takes students two years to finish. The programs share an identical major curriculum, which includes the following classes: Business Fundamentals, Organizational Behavior, and International Business. Aspen uses the Desire2Learn learning management system to deliver online coursework in an asynchronous format. Resources for distance learners include academic advising and career and alumni services. Prospective students can apply online and submit transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.0. Students with 15 or more college credits are not required to submit high school transcripts.
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Columbus State University Columbus (GA) Columbus State University (CSU) is a medium-sized, public institution offering an online Bachelor of Business Administration in General Business that requires 123 credit hours. In addition, the program offers the International Business track, which students can add to their degree. The program’s coursework includes Introduction to Business, Consumer Behavior, and Principles of Macroeconomics. At CSU, online students complete coursework on the learning management system, Blackboard. Remote students can access an online library, IT support, and advising. The program’s requirements include an application, official transcripts, and ACT/SAT scores.
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Kennesaw State University Kennesaw (GA) Kennesaw State University (KSU) is a large, public institution offering three online bachelor’s in business degrees: (1) a Bachelor of Business Administration in Information Security and Assurance (120 credit hours), (2) a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management (120 credit hours), and (3) a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing (120 credit hours). All three programs cover various aspects of a career in the business world. Sample coursework includes Principles of Finance, Organizational Behavior, and Business Statistics. KSU facilitates online learning in an asynchronous and synchronous format on Brightspace. Online students can access academic advising, counseling, disability support, a remote library, and career development. The program’s admission requirements include an application, a minimum 2.5 GPA, and high school transcripts.
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Clayton State University Morrow (GA) Clayton State University (CSU) is a medium-sized, public institution offering a 120-credit Bachelor of Business Administration in General Business. Besides the General Business track, this online program also includes other options to major in: Accounting, Management, Marketing, and Supply Chain Management. Students take the same core curriculum, general education, and upper-level requirements, then they diverge for major-specific courses, electives, and a capstone project near the end. CSU uses Brightspace to deliver asynchronous and synchronous classes. Distance learners can access career services, academic advising, counseling, and library resources. Prospective students must submit an application, academic transcripts, and minimum ACT/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.
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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.