2020 Most Affordable Online Colleges for Business Degrees
The list below highlights the most affordable online bachelor’s degrees in business. Students may select a general business track or focus their studies in marketing, finance, or accounting, among other specializations. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that business and finance professionals earned a median annual salary of $69,820 in 2019 and that demand for these occupations is expected to grow faster than average. In addition to our rankings, we’ve included information about the length and difficulty of online business programs, the cost of a degree, and salary and career information for business graduates.
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 Tuition: $5,490 |
| # 2 | Georgia Southwestern State University Tuition: $5,970 |
| # 2 | University of the Cumberlands Tuition: $5,970 |
| # 1 | University of North Carolina at Pembroke Tuition: $6,752 |
| # 2 | Fort Hays State University Tuition: $6,778 |
| # 3 | Columbia Southern University Tuition: $6,900 |
| # 1 | Fort Hays State University Tuition: $6,560 |
| # 2 | Columbia Southern University Tuition: $6,900 |
| # 3 | Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus Tuition: $7,492 |
| # 1 | Georgia Southwestern State University Tuition: $5,970 |
| # 2 | United States University Tuition: $6,000 |
| # 3 | Western Governors University Tuition: $6,450 |
| # 1 | California Coast University Tuition: $4,725 |
| # 2 | Great Basin College Tuition: $4,785 |
| # 3 | Clayton State University Tuition: $5,490 |
| # 1 | California Coast University Tuition: $4,725 |
| # 2 | Clayton State University Tuition: $5,490 |
| # 3 | Georgia Southwestern State University Tuition: $5,970 |
| # 1 | Georgia Southwestern State University Tuition: $3,855 |
| # 2 | Valdosta State University Tuition: $4,395 |
| # 3 | California Coast University Tuition: $4,485 |
| # 1 | Columbia Southern University Tuition: $6,900 |
| # 2 | College of Southern Nevada Tuition: $7,190 |
| # 3 | Amberton University Tuition: $7,950 |
| # 1 | Tennessee State University Tuition: $4,200 |
| # 2 | University of Iowa Tuition: $8,073 |
| # 3 | Southern New Hampshire University Online Tuition: $9,600 |
| # 1 | University of Central Arkansas Tuition: $4,875 |
| # 2 | Missouri State University Tuition: $5,015 |
| # 3 | Minot State University Tuition: $5,030 |
| # 1 | Clayton State University Tuition: $5,490 |
| # 2 | Kennesaw State University Tuition: $6,180 |
| # 3 | Georgia Military College Tuition: $7,110 |
| # 1 | Strayer University Tuition: $4,480 |
| # 2 | Southern Utah University Tuition: $7,097 |
| # 3 | Colorado State University Global 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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Online Bachelor's in Business Programs
How Long Does it Take to Earn a Business Degree Online?
Most full-time students take about four years to complete a bachelor's degree in business, assuming they attend a school that uses a traditional semester-based or quarter-based schedule, and this is true for both online and in-person programs. However, several factors may affect how long it will take students to finish their programs. Some students choose to attend school on a part-time basis, taking fewer credits per semester or quarter and thus requiring more years to fulfill all the necessary requirements. Alternatively, students may be eligible for course credit based on prior AP high school courses, college courses, military training, and work experience, which reduces the total number of credits needed to graduate. Students who've already earned an associate degree, for example, generally only need an additional two years of coursework to earn a bachelor's degree.
In some cases, fully online programs can enable students to accelerate their studies and graduate faster. For example, some online schools have adopted year-round schedules that allow students to take intensified courses in seven- or ten-week sessions. By taking a full course load in every session, students may be able to graduate in two and a half or three years.
How Challenging are Business Programs?
Business programs that are accredited at the program or school level have similar academic standards. This is because accredited schools or programs are continually reviewed by independent third parties to ensure the quality of education. For example, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) is a nonprofit organization responsible for accrediting business degree programs that are committed to maintaining specific standards of excellence. In addition to accreditation, prospective students may consider an institution's acceptance rate and graduation rate. Other factors that may impact the difficulty of a program include whether classes are taken in a part-time or full-time capacity and if coursework is completed in a synchronous or asynchronous format.
How Much Does an Online Business Degree Cost?
The cost of an online bachelor's degree in business varies widely, depending on a number of factors. Most bachelor's degree programs require 120 semester credits to complete, so total tuition costs for programs ranked on our list of affordable online business degrees can total anywhere from $18,000 to $30,000. Other online programs could total as much as $161,160 or more. These totals are based on the cost per credit, which starts at $150 and goes up to about $250 for the affordable options on this list. However, the per-credit tuition cost for other online business bachelor's degree programs can go as high as $1,343 and beyond. Other factors that influence per-credit fees are school type (public, private, or nonprofit), degree format (online or in-person), and whether the student is paying in-state or out-of-state fees. These amounts do not account for additional expenses, such as books, supplies, and technology, graduation, and other fees charged by most schools.
Two factors that can help minimize the total cost of earning an online Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in business are prior learning credits and financial aid. Many schools grant course credit for previous military and work experience, which reduces the number of credits a student needs to earn in order to graduate. Online students are also often eligible for financial assistance, such as scholarships and grants, that can help offset the expense of a college education. Active duty military members, veterans, and their dependents may be entitled to tuition assistance at military-friendly schools, and some colleges partner with various organizations to offer tuition discounts to the organizations' members or employees.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Business Graduates
Which Business Degrees Lead to the Highest Salaries?
Generally, the occupations with the highest earning potential are in the fields of accounting and finance. According to the BLS, professionals in these fields earned a median annual salary of $69,820 in 2019. The top three business occupations were personal finance advisors ($87,850), management analysts ($85,260), and financial analysts ($81,590). It is important to note that high salaries are reflective of years of experience in the field in addition to a college degree. Graduates entering the field should expect to earn entry-level salaries at the beginning of their careers.
Online Business Specializations
The following specializations are offered as online bachelor's programs at many schools. Depending on the chosen focus, online course requirements will vary for business students. For each topic below, median salary data and industry growth projections are provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), unless otherwise noted.
- Accounting: Accountants or auditors analyze financial records and prepare statements for private, public, or nonprofit organizations. They also perform other tasks that involve budgeting, accounting systems management, or filing taxes. Accountants earned a median annual salary of $71,550 in 2019 and the occupation is predicted to grow at an average rate of 4% per year. We've compiled a list of schools that offer the most affordable online degrees in accounting.
- Finance: Students of finance degree programs graduate with competency in financial analysis. They advise organizations in making profitable investment decisions by analyzing financial data, studying current trends, and preparing reports. Financial analysts received a median pay of $81,590 per year in 2019 and the occupation is expected to grow 5%. We've compiled a list of schools offering the most affordable online finance degrees.
- Hospitality Management: Online students in hospitality management programs are qualified to become hotel managers and event planners. Hotel managers earned a yearly median income of $54,430 in 2019 and are responsible for overseeing a hotel's finances and operations and ensuring guest satisfaction. Event planners received a median pay of $50,600 in 2019 and are in charge of coordinating events, meetings, and conferences, managing budgets, and meeting with clients. We've ranked the most affordable schools offering online bachelor's degrees in hospitality management.
- Marketing: Distance learners who select a concentration in marketing can become marketing research analysts, marketing specialists, and marketing managers. Analysts and specialists work to increase the sales of a service or product by implementing marketing campaigns, analyzing data or metrics, and conducting outreach. In 2019, the occupation earned a median annual wage of $71,570 and job growth is expected to increase by 18%. The accredited schools on our list of bachelor's degrees in marketing have been ranked as the most affordable.
- MBA: MBA programs include online classes in business fundamentals and managerial and communication skills. Graduates are prepared to take on leadership roles within an organization, overseeing business functions such as marketing, operations, or finance. The median annual salary for all management occupations was $105,660 in 2019 and job growth is expected to grow at a rate of 5%. We've compiled a comprehensive list of colleges and universities offering the most affordable online MBA programs.
- Project Management: Project managers are primarily responsible for organizing teams, planning and delegating work, and ensuring that project goals are met according to deadlines and budget constraints. The Project Management Institute notes that the median annual income for project managers is $116,000. We've created a list of schools that offer online degrees in project management.
- Sports Management: Online learning programs in sports management cover topics in finance, facilities management, and sports law. Sports managers are responsible for representing athletes and teams in collegiate sports or the professional sports industry. Job growth for this occupation is expected to grow by 12% between 2019 and 2029. We've compiled a list of the most affordable schools offering online sports management degrees.
- Supply Chain Management: Supply chain managers oversee the movement of goods or products from design to consumer. They are responsible for inventory management, purchasing, warehousing, and overseeing shipping and transportation costs. The demand for this position is expected to grow 4%, and the median annual salary was $74,750 in 2019. We've provided a list of schools that offer online degrees in supply chain management.