Business administration is one of the most versatile career fields, and getting an online Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration makes it possible to explore a variety of business disciplines. However, not all online degrees are created equal. The best online business administration bachelor’s degrees come from accredited, reputable schools that will give you the education and skills you need to impress hiring managers.
This is your complete guide to 10 of the best online business administration bachelor’s degrees available. For some guidance on what to do with your degree, we’ve also included the top business administration bachelor’s degree jobs along with their anticipated growth rates and average salaries.
Where Can I Get a Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree Online?
You can get a business administration bachelor’s degree online from reputable schools including Arizona State University, Drexel University, Husson University, Liberty University, and Penn State World Campus. We’ll take a closer look at these and other schools below.
What Schools Offer the Best Business Administration Bachelor’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- Drexel University
- Husson University
- Liberty University
- Penn State World Campus
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree?
The requirements for an online Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration are a high school diploma, standardized tests like the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or the American College Testing (ACT), and a minimum GPA. Students who do not have their high school diploma may be able to secure admission with General Educational Development (GED) scores.
An international online student from a non-English speaking country may be required to provide proof of English proficiency. Another common online Bachelor’s in Business Administration requirement is a minimum GPA between 2.0 and 3.5. Some schools may have dedicated entrance exams for students interested in online business degrees. Others allow a transfer of credits from an associate degree.
Online Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma/GED
- SAT/ACT scores
- Minimum GPA
- Official transcripts
- Entrance exams
How to Get a Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree Online
You can get a business administration bachelor’s degree online after gaining admission into a degree program and meeting the graduation requirements. The requirements for an online student typically include 120 credits from core, elective, and general education courses. You may also need to complete a capstone project and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0.
Bachelor’s Degree Requirements
- 120 to 180 credits
- Core business courses
- Elective courses
- Minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0
- Capstone project
Best Online Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Bachelor of Arts in Business – Business Administration Concentration | Higher Learning Commission |
| Drexel University | Bachelor of Science in Business Administration | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Husson University | Bachelor of Science in Business Administration | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Liberty University | Bachelor of Science in Business Administration | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Penn State World | Bachelor of Science in Business | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Regent University | Bachelor of Science in Business | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Bachelor of Science in Business Administration | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Syracuse University | Bachelor of Professional Studies in Business Management | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Oregon State University | Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | Bachelor of Science in Business Administration | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Best Schools for Business Administration: Top Online Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The list below contains more details about the best online programs for a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. It covers an overview of each program, the admission and program requirements for each school, and the anticipated tuition.
What Is an Online Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree?
An online business administration bachelor’s degree is an undergraduate degree that is offered over the Internet and through video conferencing platforms. Courses are self-paced or interactively scheduled, depending on the specific online degree program.
With the self-paced option, you will have more control over when you learn because most of the material will be pre-recorded by instructors from the university. The live, interactive online degrees provide more flexibility than traditional in-person degrees but not as much flexibility as self-paced degrees. This means that you will still have to follow a timetable and attend online classes at the same time other students do.
Online vs In-Person Business Administration Degrees
An online Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration is just as good as a traditional in-person degree. The major difference between them is that one is earned online and the other is earned via on-campus classes. The better option depends on your preferences and goals. For example, if you are fresh out of high school and would enjoy the full college experience, an on-campus degree might be right for you.
Working professionals who want to hold on to their jobs while earning their degree may benefit more from an online Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration program. Online courses in business administration offer flexibility and are typically more affordable than traditional schools. The best way to decide between an online vs in-person bachelor’s in business administration is to consider your preferred learning method.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration
- A lower cost. The tuition rates per credit for online schools are typically more affordable than the tuition per credit for in-person degrees in business administration. Apart from tuition, the cost of attendance is also lower since you will not need to pay for things like daily commuting, or all of the high costs associated with relocating.
- Accelerated learning. There are many online schools that offer accelerated online degrees in business administration. For example, Liberty University allows you to complete your degree in three and a half years instead of the standard four years it takes to complete an on-campus degree.
- Flexibility. This is one of the most obvious benefits of getting an online Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. Learning is not restricted to the four walls of a classroom. You can learn in the comfort of your home, during your work break, or while on vacation.
- Personal health and safety. In this COVID-19 era, there has been a significant increase in the number of students learning online. Online learning limits your face-to-face interactions with people, which subsequently reduces your chances of getting infected with COVID-19 or other illnesses.
- Growth in communication skills. When your daily classes and assignments take place over the Internet, you eventually become more efficient at virtual communication. In today’s digital world, mastering virtual communication in business is more important than ever.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration
- Growth in interpersonal skills. Despite the popularity of the Internet and other electronic forms of communication, there will always be a need for face-to-face interaction in business. By interacting one-on-one with students, professors, and other people you meet through the university, you will learn what your interpersonal skills are and how you can strengthen them.
- Networking opportunities. It is easier to build a professional network when you choose an in-person bachelor’s degree. This is because it offers more room for socialization and building meaningful relationships.
- Socializing for mental health. When taking on-campus classes, it’s less likely that you will feel isolated or alone. You will learn with your peers and interact with them regularly. You can also make friends in other departments of the school.
- Team sports. If you love sports, you may want to consider getting your business administration bachelor’s degree traditionally on a campus. Many schools have soccer, basketball, football, baseball, and other sports teams, and if you are a gifted athlete, you may even qualify for a sports scholarship.
- Fraternities and sororities. Fraternities and sororities provide ample networking opportunities for college students. They also provide an accountability system that allows you to enjoy the educational and social aspects of college at the same time.
What Types of Online Bachelor Degrees Can You Get in Business Administration?
You can get the following types of bachelor’s degrees for business administration:
- Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Administration
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration?
A Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration is better than a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration if you are pursuing a management-oriented career. If you are more interested in technical fields, a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration might be the more ideal option for you.
Either type of Bachelor’s Degree is better than learning business administration through free online classes because a bachelor’s degree program will provide a more comprehensive education.
Both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science have value. There are many employment opportunities for holders of either degree, so your decision should be based on your career goals and academic strengths.
How Much Does a Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree Cost?
A Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration costs about $16,647 in annual tuition and fees, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Public and non-profit institutions are more affordable than private for-profit institutions. In general, online bachelor’s degree programs in business administration cost less than in-person programs.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree Online?
It typically takes about four years to complete an online Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration if you are a full-time student. It may take up to five years for part-time students, and some schools offer accelerated options that run for two to three and a half years.
During the duration of the degree, you will be expected to meet the credit requirement of the program, which is 120 to 180 credits depending on the school. These credits come from core business courses, general education courses, and electives. Your business specialization will also influence the courses you take for the degree.
Are Online Business Administration Degrees Respected?
Yes, online business administration degrees are respected and recognized as long as they are from accredited institutions. Prospective employers give online business administration bachelor’s degrees the same respect as degrees obtained traditionally because they cover the same material and usually even feature the same faculty.
Getting an accredited online business administration degree can help you stand out to prospective employers because the accreditation speaks to the high academic standards of your program.
Is Business Administration Hard to Learn Online?
No, business administration is not hard to learn online. While the courses require a lot of reading, most of the lectures and materials can be accessed online without any stress. You do not need to handle any practicals or carry out any experiments on-campus with this degree.
Why You Should Get a Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree Online
You should get a business administration bachelor’s degree online if you intend to build a career in business, even start a business of your own, without sacrificing your current job. The flexibility of the best online business administration bachelor’s degree programs allows you to work and study at the same time and at an affordable rate.
Due to the versatility of a business administration bachelor’s degree, you can get a job in just about any industry, including tech. It allows you to explore as many options as you want during your career.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Bachelor’s Degree Program in Business Administration?
During an online bachelor’s degree program in business administration, you will take courses related to business analysis, business ethics, strategic marketing, and professional development. Here are the general details of some of the best online Bachelor’s in Business Administration classes.
Understanding Business Ethics
Business ethics is a branch of business administration that has to do with ethical and moral issues that occur in any business. You will learn how to run your business ethically and what sort of behavior is considered ethical and unethical. This includes ethics for individuals as well as ethics for different departments of an organization.
Principles of Professional Development
Another key aspect of a business is professional development. If you ever intend to become a business owner, you need to learn the importance of training and certifying employees. The more professional development your employees get, the more value they will bring to your company.
Introduction to Business Analysis
Business analysis is the technical aspect of business that involves using data analytic tools to determine business problems and provide sustainable solutions. After getting your Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, you can further your career by learning how to get a job in business analysis.
Strategic Marketing
Marketing is a critical part of any business. The best online business administration bachelor’s degree programs teach you about strategic traditional and social media marketing and how they can be used to boost sales in any business.
Managing Human and Material Resources
Irrespective of the business field you choose, you will have to learn how to manage human or material resources for a business. This is because business administration is a good pathway to management positions, which require more than natural leadership skills.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
The most common continuing education path for people with a business administration bachelor’s degree is a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, popularly known as an MBA. An MBA is a terminal degree for most company executives who attend graduate schools. You can use it to enter any industry, including tech. If you want to pursue a career in academia or research, however, you may also want to add a doctorate degree to your MBA.
Related Online Business Administration Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree Programs
There are many options available to get your business administration degree. If you are wondering what to look for in an online business administration degree program, take a look at our list of important criteria below.
Accreditation
You cannot assume that every online business administration bachelor’s degree is offered by an accredited university. When you develop an interest in a school, find out which accreditation the school has. Some degrees offer program-specific accreditation as well. The most common business accreditation is the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
Cost
Find out what the tuition would cost you for each year of the program. Is it a fixed figure for prospective students? Fixed tuitions do not change throughout the program and are usually more ideal because they allow you to plan and stick to a budget. You also need to consider possible fees required by the program, not just the tuition.
Curriculum
What will you learn during the program? Does it cover business analytics, strategic planning, business ethics, strategic marketing, business accounting, and other key aspects of business administration? Is it an arts, science, or applied science program? Finding out what the curriculum offers will make it easier for you to choose a degree based on your career goals.
Career Services
Getting your Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration doesn’t automatically come with a job. Those who kept their jobs while earning their degree online will likely have opportunities to advance within their companies. However, graduates looking for jobs might require help. Find out if your school offers career services. You can also research the job outcomes of graduates of your particular program.
Flexibility
Flexibility is very important to most online students. How much flexibility does the program offer? Are the courses scheduled? Is there more than one day and time offered for each course? What is the attendance requirement for graduation? If the class schedule is too rigid, you may not get the flexibility you’re after.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable online business administration degree is the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration offered by the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC). This degree costs $37,440 for in-state students, or $312 per credit with 120 credits.
Students looking for a good online out-of-state option would find the most affordable program in SNHU’s Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, which is $38,400, or $320 per credit with 120 credits.
Can I Get a Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree Online for Free?
Yes, you can get an online Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration for free, but only if you are awarded a full scholarship. If you do not qualify for a scholarship, you may benefit from taking free university business administration courses. Keep in mind that these free, individual classes do not come with degrees, but they do provide some education in the subject area.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
After you secure your Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, you can start exploring different career options. The first job you get after graduation is often crucial because it sets the pace for the rest of your career.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with an online business administration bachelor’s degree. Graduates with business administration degrees can work in different industries including retail, supply chain management, information technology, accounting, project management, and a range of other fields.
What’s the Average Online Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
The average online business administration bachelor’s degree salary is about $75,000, according to PayScale. The average salaries vary widely, with a range from $21,500 to $120,500, depending on professional experience, location, and industry.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree?
Some of the jobs you can get with an online business administration bachelor’s degree include marketing manager, office administrator, human resource manager, business developer, or business analyst. The jobs you explore will vary depending on your specialization in business administration.
Business Administration Degree Jobs
- Marketing manager
- Office administrator
- Business developer
- Human resource manager
- Business analyst
Potential Careers With an Online Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree?
You can make $60,000 to $130,000 with your Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. Starting salaries for the best jobs you’ll qualify for are relatively high, and the more experience you get in your field and in your position, the more you can expect to make.
If you are a consultant with no allegiance to any single company, the earning potential may be higher. Most graduates find making money with an online business administration degree is not very difficult.
Highest-Paying Online Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Marketing Manager | $133,380 |
| Business Developer | $120,130 |
| Office Administrator | $102,450 |
| Business Analyst | $93,000 |
| Human Resource Manager | $62,290 |
Best Jobs for Online Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for online business administration bachelor degree graduates are in marketing, office administration, business development, human resource management, and business analysis. Bachelor’s in Business Administration online degree jobs usually come with a high salary.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Online Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online business administration bachelor’s degree is worth it for anyone who wants to dive into the world of business without having to spend time on campus. Online business administration bachelor’s degrees are just as good as traditional on-campus undergraduate programs. The Bachelor of Business Administration prepares you for an advanced degree whether you get it online or in person.
You will enjoy the same job opportunities and salary potential as a person who attends an in-person school. Online degree programs are flexible, more affordable, and more convenient than on-campus programs. If you want to start a job with a high annual salary and gain a range of technical skills, you’ll find getting an online business administration bachelor’s degree worth it.
Additional Reading About Business Administration
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Online Business Administration Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
The highest-paying business degree is a financial management degree. Other high-paying business degrees are healthcare management, business statistics, business economics, accounting, business administration, and information and systems management degrees.
The highest-paying job in business is vice president of finance. These financial accounting experts earn up to $207,500 annually, according to ZipRecruiter. The average salary is $130,789, but some have reported salaries as low as $53,500. California, Washington, New York, and Alaska are the highest-paying states for vice presidents in finance.
A business administration degree is better than a degree in business management for someone who is just starting. It is easier to get entry-level business administration jobs. Business management degrees are ideal for established professionals who want to advance their careers. You can also get a business management degree that offers a business administration specialization.
No, business administration does not require a lot of math. During your junior year, you may be required to take a few math classes. However, the core economics classes you take throughout the program are going to involve numbers.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
