The career outlook for people with business degrees is generally strong since business knowledge and communication skills are relevant in every industry. There are many famous business schools in the US, but there’s no need to break the bank or travel to get an education since the cheapest online business degree leads to job prospects and career growth.
This guide covers the cheapest online schools for business, including schools that offer associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. It also includes information on financing your studies, the major courses you’ll encounter as a business major, and the jobs you can qualify for with the most affordable online business degree.
Find Your Bootcamp Match
- Career Karma matches you with top tech bootcamps
- Access exclusive scholarships and prep courses
By continuing you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, and you consent to receive offers and opportunities from Career Karma by telephone, text message, and email.
Can I Get a Business Degree Online?
Yes, you can get a business degree online. Online learning is possible because many schools offer flexible class options. Working students can complete their degrees without having to take time off work or commute. There are online undergraduate programs and graduate programs, including undergraduate and graduate business administration programs.
Why Should I Get a Business Degree Online?
You should get a business degree online because online classes offer you flexible options to complete your education. Many online programs offer affordable tuition and different types of instruction to work with busy students’ schedules. There are online options for students at every level, from total beginners to those looking to advance in their business careers.
You should study business if you’re interested in gaining a good understanding of economic principles and want a job evaluating the financial health of a company. You can learn everything you would in on-campus classes in an online program, and most diplomas don’t distinguish whether you studied in person or not. An online business degree can help students launch career paths in accounting, finance, human resources, or marketing.
What Are the Most Affordable Online Business Degree Programs in the US?
The most affordable online business degree programs in the US are offered by schools all over the country, including Northeast Community College, Georgia Southwestern State University, Tarleton State University, CUNY School of Professional Studies, and Indiana Wesleyan University.
Cheapest Business Degree Programs Online That Will Help You Stand Out
- AAS in Business at Northeast Community College
- BBA in Management at Georgia Southwestern State University
- BBA in Human Resources Management at Tarleton State University
- BS in Business at CUNY School of Professional Studies
- AS in Business at Indiana Wesleyan University
How Much Does an Online Business Degree Cost?
Online business degrees cost anywhere from $108 to $739 per credit. The cost per credit varies between individual programs and schools, and some degrees require more credits than others to complete. The total cost also depends on additional fees and the cost of books and supplies.
Will Getting a Business Degree Online Save Me Money?
Yes, getting a business degree online will save you money because you don’t have to pay for transportation or housing. Online tuition rates are often more affordable than tuition rates for on-campus students. You might also be able to save money by finding digital versions of textbooks.
Online Business Programs vs In-Person Business Programs
While both online and on-campus programs offer a well-rounded education, online business programs are different from in-person business programs in some ways. We’ve outlined the different benefits each option offers, so you can weigh these factors against your personal preferences, learning style, and career goals.
Benefits of an Online Business Degree
- Time-management skills. An online business degree challenges you to be more independent with your time since you’ll be working and studying alone. You will learn how to be more organized and intentional with how you’ll spend your time, which are skills that will be valuable in the workplace.
- Fewer expenses. Many universities offer lower online tuition rates, so you might spend less on tuition depending on the program you choose. In any case, you will save money because you won’t have to pay for transportation or housing near your campus.
- More flexibility. Most online programs offer options for flexible study, whether that means live classes taught in the evenings or recorded classes that you can take whenever you have time in your schedule. In both cases, you can attend your classes from anywhere in the world so long as you have an internet connection.
- Saves time. Enrolling in an online business school will save you time because you won’t have to commute back and forth to campus. You can use that extra time to take care of other things, such as work or family obligations.
- More free time. Since you will save time commuting and can adapt your class schedule to your personal needs, you will have more time and energy for other activities. That could include supplemental classes from different institutions like bootcamps or your own personal hobbies.
Benefits of In-Person Business Degree Programs
- Fewer distractions. In a classroom setting, there are rules that you have to follow that encourage students to pay more attention during lectures and lessons. When you’re in a classroom with a teacher and your peers, it’s easier to stay on task and not distract yourself.
- Campus facilities. There are lots of resources that are easier to access on campus, like academic advising, counseling, clubs, and fitness facilities. Studying on campus also gives you access to state-of-the-art facilities, robust libraries, and different areas for socializing, relaxing, and studying.
- Social life. Attending in-person classes gives you a lot of opportunities to connect with your peers. With that, you’ll be able to have stronger connections with them and form friendships that could help you with your emotional needs during college.
- Holistic experience. Interacting with your instructors face-to-face can feel very different than watching online lectures. You can ask questions and have them answered immediately and build rapport with your professors. You can also benefit from group projects with your classmates.
- Collaboration and competition. If you study on campus, you’ll be able to work and study with students who are also intelligent and competitive. This could inspire you to do better and study harder, setting you up for success after graduation.
Online Business Degree Career Options
There are many different career paths available to graduates with business degrees. Some of these job titles include financial analyst, accounting assistant, and loan officer. We’ve included some more information about the career outlook and annual salary you might expect with a business degree.
Business Job Outlook
In general, the career outlook for business professions is strong. After successfully completing an online business degree, you can get a job as a marketing specialist. Some business professions experience relatively average job growth. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects six percent job growth for financial analysts through 2030.
Some business professions are also growing more rapidly than average. If you want to choose a field that’s growing quickly, marketing is a strong choice. BLS expects job opportunities for marketing analysts to grow 22 percent through 2030, which is much faster than average.
Business Salary
The average salary for a business graduate is $74,000 a year. Salaries can change based on where you’re working, what company you’re working for, and whether you’re working entry-level jobs or more senior positions. You’ll probably cover some negotiation tactics during your business education, which will help you get higher salaries after graduation.
Can I Enroll in an Online Business Program for Free?
Yes, you can enroll in an online business program for free if you qualify for financial aid. There are many federal and state grants available to students who can demonstrate financial need. Scholarships are also available for other reasons, such as academic performance, sports, or ethnicity. Be sure to thoroughly research all of your financial aid opportunities.
Cheapest Online Business Degree Programs
| School | Online Degree | Degree Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Business | $108/credit (in state); $151/credit (out of state) |
| Georgia Southwestern State University | Bachelor of Business Administration in Management | $199/credit |
| Tarleton State University | Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resources Management | $267.37/credit |
| CUNY School of Professional Studies | Bachelor of Science in Business | $305/credit |
| Indiana Wesleyan University | Associate of Science in Business | $305/credit |
| New Mexico State University | Master of Business Administration | $444.40/credit |
| Columbus State University | Master of Business Administration | $739/credit |
| California State University-Bakersfield | Master of Business Administration | $3,002+$270/credit (0-6 credits); $4,508+$270/credit (6+ credits) |
| Southern Utah University | Master of Business Administration – General Emphasis | $16,005 total |
| Aspen University | Bachelor of Science in Business Administration | $21,600 total |
Business Degrees Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Most Affordable Online Business Programs
We chose the most affordable business degree programs based on tuition and general cost information from the schools’ official websites, the US Department of Education’s database of accredited schools, and the US Department of Education’s College Scorecard tool.
The Cheapest Online Business Degree Programs: A Deep Dive
Aspen University was founded in the 1960s and has offered online education courses since 1999. It offers certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees through its School of Nursing, School of Business and Technology, School of Education, and School of Professional Studies. It offers student services such as academic advising and an honors society.
The degree in business administration offered by Aspen University prepares students for professional settings in management and business. Online courses are also available for the required general education curriculum, in areas like history, mathematics, and psychology. Business-focused courses include topics like customer relationship management and strategic management.
Aspen University Overview
- Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
- Type of School: For-profit private institution
- Admissions Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 37%
- US News National Ranking: Unranked
- Post-Grad Median Salary: N/A
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Overview
- Admissions Requirements: Official transcripts, high school diploma, 2.0 GPA
- Credits Required to Graduate: 120
- Average Graduation Time: 4 years
- Core Curriculum: Business Fundamentals, Principles of Accounting, Principles of Management
- Key Skills: Management, communication, organization
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is Aspen University’s Bachelor of Science in Business Administration For?
- High school graduates with no previous experience in business
- Students who want to become future business leaders
CUNY School of Professional Studies is part of the City University of New York network, New York City’s public university system that educates 500,000 students each year. Housed within the CUNY Graduate Center, US News & World Report ranked SPS’s bachelor’s programs as tenth-best in the country.
The curriculum for the Bachelor of Science in Business combines core business courses like business law and principles of marketing with a general education core designed to produce well-rounded professionals. Students can tailor their degree via electives like international trade or real estate finance, and this is one of the few online business degrees that gives students the option to write a thesis.
CUNY School of Professional Studies Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Type of School: Public institution
- Admissions Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 42%
- US News National Ranking: #10 (best online bachelor’s programs)
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $58,476
Bachelor of Science in Business Overview
- Admissions Requirements: 24 credits from an accredited institution, transcripts, 2.5 GPA, personal essay
- Credits Required to Graduate: 120
- Average Graduation Time: 4 years
- Core Curriculum: Operations Management, Principles of Marketing, Business Law
- Key Skills: Management and ethical decision making
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is the CUNY School of Professional Studies Bachelor of Science in Business For?
- Students who have some college experience
- Students who want to deepen their knowledge by writing a thesis
Georgia Southwestern State University was founded in 1906 and is part of the Georgia public university system. While public schools often have higher tuition costs for out-of-state students, online students at Georgia Southwestern enjoy the same low tuition rate as their Georgia-based peers. The university teaches across its four schools of Arts and Sciences, Business and Computing, Education, and Nursing and Health Sciences.
The Bachelor’s in Business Administration can be taken with four different concentration options: management, marketing, human resources, and accounting. The management track covers all different kinds of business management, including operations management and labor relations.
Georgia Southwestern State University Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Type of School: Public
- Admissions Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 34%
- US News National Ranking: #104-137 (regional)
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $42,086
Bachelor of Business Administration in Management Overview
- Admissions Requirements: Transcript, SAT/ACT scores, application fee
- Credits Required to Graduate: 125
- Average Graduation Time: 4 years
- Core Curriculum: Accounting Principles, The Environment of Business, Principles of Macroeconomics
- Key Skills: Critical thinking and leadership skills
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is the Georgia Southwestern State University’s Bachelor of Business Administration in Management For?
- Students who want to understand the intricacies of finance and organizational goals
- Students who don’t have professional business experience
Southern Utah University was founded in 1897 and has a student population of more than 13,000 students. The school prioritized flexibility for both its on-campus and online students, offering three-year accelerated bachelor’s degree tracks and online education in unique subjects like music technology and library studies.
Online students in the Master of Business Administration program can choose a general emphasis or between concentration options in business analytics, finance, healthcare administration, leadership, or marketing. Along with core business courses and electives, students in all concentrations must complete a capstone project.
Southern Utah University Overview
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Type of School: Public
- Admissions Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 55%
- US News National Ranking: #32 (top public schools)
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $47,456
Master of Business Administration–General Business Overview
- Admissions Requirements: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, 2.5 GPA, transcripts
- Credits Required to Graduate: 33
- Average Graduation Time: 1-2 years
- Core Curriculum: Managing People and Organizations, Operations and Supply Chain Management, Leadership
- Key Skills: Leadership and problem-solving skills
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is the Southern Utah University’s Master of Business Administration–General Emphasis For?
- Students who have a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field
- Business professionals who want to take on leadership roles in their organizations
Tarleton State University hosts 14,000 students in over 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including doctorate degrees. Students study across seven academic colleges, including the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the College of Business, the College of Education and Human Development, and the College of Health Sciences and Human Services.
The BBA in Human Resources Management is offered by the school’s Department of Management. Online students take core business courses along with courses focused specifically on human resource management, like organizational behavior, business ethics, negotiations, and employment law.
Tarleton State University Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College
- Type of School: Public
- Admissions Rate: 58%
- Graduation Rate: 49%
- US News National Ranking: #77 (Regional)
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $46,642
Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resources Management Overview
- Admissions Requirements: SAT or ACT scores, application form, application fee
- Credits Required to Graduate: 120
- Average Graduation Time: 4 years
- Core Curriculum: Strategic Compensation, Staffing Organizations, Human Resource Management
- Key Skills: Leadership and organization skills
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is the Tarleton State University’s Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resources Management For?
- Students who want to get entry-level jobs in human resources
- Students who want to get an MBA in the future
Columbus State University was established in 1958 and is part of the Georgia public university system. It offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in a range of fields, including music and fine arts. CSU’s online school currently hosts 39 different degree programs, along with professional certificates.
"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"
Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot
The online MBA is designed for business professionals, with a standard cohort system in which students take two classes per semester for five semesters. The curriculum covers subjects like managerial accounting, international business, management information systems, supply chain management, and business analytics.
Columbus State University Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Type of School: Public
- Admissions Rate: 78%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- US News National Ranking: #74 (Regional)
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $41,096
Master of Business Administration Overview
- Admissions Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, official transcripts, 2.75 GPA, professional resume
- Credits Required to Graduate: 30
- Average Graduation Time: 1-2 years
- Core Curriculum: Managerial Accounting, Strategic Marketing, Management Information Systems
- Key Skills: Leadership and team-development skills
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is the Columbus State University's Master of Business Administration For?
- Professionals who want to advance to management positions
- Students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in business
New Mexico State University was founded in 1888 and offers more than 180 different degree programs at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels. The school has a strong agriculture school that works with farmers across the state, as well as the New Mexico Department of Agriculture. This makes NMSU a good choice for students interested in agribusiness.
This MBA program is offered through a combination of live-streamed and pre-recorded lectures. Online learners have the opportunity to choose between concentration options in agribusiness, finance, information systems, public utility regulation, and health services management. All students must complete a thesis paper in their final semester to graduate.
New Mexico State University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Type of School: Public
- Admissions Rate: 63%
- Graduation Rate: 50%
- US News National Ranking: #227
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $36,683
Master of Business Administration Overview
- Admissions Requirements: Official transcripts, undergraduate degree, 3.0 GPA, GRE or GMAT scores
- Credits Required to Graduate: 36
- Average Graduation Time: 2 years
- Core Curriculum: Principles of Accounting, Macroeconomic Principles, Financial Analysis and Markets
- Key Skills: Communication and leadership skills
- Areas of Specialization: Agribusiness, finance, information systems, public utility regulation, and health services management
Who Is the New Mexico State University’s Master of Business Administration For?
- Students who have an undergraduate degree in business or a related subject
- Students whose career goals include working in the agriculture sector
California State University–Bakersfield is part of the California state university system and opened in 1970. Like all UC and CSU schools, CSU Bakersfield is known for affordable, high-quality education.
Online students in the business administration master’s program can choose between a fully-online experience or a hybrid one if they happen to live near the campus. Adult learners can fit their coursework into their schedule by signing up for night classes or prerecorded online classes.
California State University–Bakersfield Overview
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Type of School: Public
- Admissions Rate: 78%
- Graduation Rate: 48%
- US News National Ranking: #51 (Regional)
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $52,606
Master of Business Administration Overview
- Admissions Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, 2.75 GPA, official transcripts, GMAT or GRE scores
- Credits Required to Graduate: 33
- Average Graduation Time: 2 years
- Core Curriculum: Financial Management and Policy, Managerial Skills, Operations and Technology Management
- Key Skills: Managerial and leadership skills
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is the California State University–Bakersfield's Master of Business Administration For?
- Students who already have a bachelor’s degree or professional experience
- Working professionals who want to level up in their career
Indiana Wesleyan University is a private school that’s affiliated with the Wesleyan Church. It offers more than 100 online degree programs, including many theological programs through its own seminary. Aside from its popular programs in religion, students can choose from a wide range of subjects like aviation, liberal arts, or art and design.
The online associate degree program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in business topics. Students will be well-prepared to continue their studies in bachelor’s programs or dive into entry-level jobs. This program uses Open Educational Resources instead of traditional textbooks, so students enjoy extra cost savings.
Indiana Wesleyan University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Type of School: Private, non-profit
- Admissions Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 38%
- US News National Ranking: #19 (Regional)
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $54,411
Associate of Science in Business Overview
- Admissions Requirements: High school diploma or GED
- Credits Required to Graduate: 60
- Average Graduation Time: 2 years
- Core Curriculum: Personal Finance, Accounting for Business, Introduction to Marketing
- Key Skills: Decision making and leadership skills
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is the Indiana Wesleyan University’s Associate of Science in Business For?
- High school graduates with no business experience
- Students who are interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree in the future
Northeast Community College was founded in 1973 after Northeastern Nebraska College and Northeast Nebraska Technical College combined to form a single school. The university offers more than 130 programs in different career fields, and 99.5 percent of its graduates are either employed or enrolled in a continuing education program.
The associate of applied science program in general business studies helps students learn about the fundamentals of business. The curriculum is focused on practical skills and covers basic concepts such as advertising, marketing, management, and salesmanship. Online students have the option to get hands-on learning experience through internships.
Northeast Community College Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Type of School: Public
- Admissions Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 52%
- US News National Ranking: Unranked
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $37,858
Associate of Applied Science in Business Overview
- Admissions Requirements: Application form, high school transcript, ACT/SAT scores
- Credits Required to Graduate: 63
- Average Graduation Time: 2 years
- Core Curriculum: Salesmanship, Principles of Marketing, Advanced Marketing
- Key Skills: Leadership and marketing skills
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is the Northeast Community College’s Associate of Applied Science in Business For?
- High school graduates who are looking for experiential learning
- Students who are interested in business and marketing
Common Online Business Degree Courses
Whether you’re studying in an associate or bachelor’s program, most online business degrees have a business core that covers the fundamental topics. You can tailor your degree through electives, but you should expect to take classes in business fundamentals, accounting, research and communications, ethics, and strategic management.
Business Fundamentals
This program is designed to help students get an overview of the external and internal influences on a business’s practices. The concepts that are discussed include organizational structures and forms, human resource development, finance, and marketing. These concepts are illustrated through real-life examples.
Principles of Accounting
In this course, students learn how to record, summarize, report, and interpret economic data. They’ll also learn how to design an accounting system. This is important for a business degree because accounting is concerned with the interpretation and preparation of financial reports, which are essential in any business or organization.
Business Research and Communications
Students in this course learn about real-world business communication issues like ethics, technology, cultural diversity, teamwork, and technology. The course covers communication strategies and techniques and forms of writing that are used in the professional world. Students will be prepared to communicate in the workplace and perform research, interpret data, do case analysis, and write reports.
Ethical Decision Making for Business
In this course, students discover how to resolve ethical dilemmas and make ethical decisions in a complex business organization. They’ll learn how to apply stakeholder perspectives and value-based management approaches to situations that involve individuals and groups with competing demands and interpretations of problems, crises, or opportunities.
Strategic Management
Students learn how to effectively guide an organization towards a profitable and dynamic future in this class. They learn how to define the organization’s purpose and align the business practices and values to achieve revenue goals. They also examine developing technologies in the information sector that are vital for strategic planning.
Can I Apply for Federal Aid to Finance My Online Business Degree?
Yes, you can apply for federal aid to finance your online business degree. The government is very supportive in helping students who can demonstrate financial need, so the first step towards getting financial aid should be completing your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Make sure that you submit all necessary documents and meet the deadline.
Options to Help Pay for an Online Business Degree
There are different options to help pay for an online business degree, especially for students who can demonstrate financial need. Financing options include federal and state grants, federal and private loans, and work-study programs. More information about these different financing options is included below.
Federal and State Grants
The significant difference between grants and loans is that grants don’t have to be repaid. Grants are given to students who can prove financial need and can be given by the federal government or state governments. Some federal grants include the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grants, Federal Pell Grants, and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG).
To start your application for these grants, you have to fill out the FAFSA form. Once you’ve submitted the form, you’ll hear from the financial aid departments at the schools you’ve applied to about how much grant money you qualify for.
Federal and Private Loans
Getting a federal or private student loan can be another funding option. There are significant differences between these two types of loans. The main difference is that federal loan terms and conditions are set by the federal government, whereas the conditions of private loans are determined by the lender, typically a bank or credit union.
Another major difference is the interest rates. A federal loan has a fixed interest rate and the payments are usually due when you leave school and start working. A private loan, on the other hand, might not have fixed interest rates and might require payments while you’re still in school.
Work-Study
Another option is getting to a work-study program. These programs encourage civic education and work that’s related to your course of study. There’s the possibility of working on campus or working in private, non-profit organizations. Work-study programs are available for both graduate and undergraduate students but might be easier to access on campus.
Cheapest Business Degree Programs Online
The cheapest business degree programs online are available wherever you are. You just have to find the school that offers the right degree or specific business concentration that you want. To help you with your school search, this list categorizes programs by degree type.
Most Affordable Online Business Associate Degrees
- Northeast Community College | AAS in Business. The recommended core courses in this program include Investing in Strengths, Business Math, and Business Communications. Students have the option to complete an internship.
- Indiana Wesleyan University | AS Business. In this program, students develop essential business analysis skills and global perspectives on business decision-making.
- Atlanta Technical College | AAS in Business Management. Online students learn about different skills and attitudes needed in hiring, promoting employees to management, and employee retention. Some of the coursework includes Leadership and Business Ethics.
- University of Maryland Global Campus | AA in Business Management. This online degree prepares students for business careers by teaching the basics, like accounting principles, economics, and information systems.
- University of Arkansas Grantham | AA in Business Administration. This is a good program for those who are starting their careers in business since it covers different principles, theories, and practices that are essential in the business field.
Most Affordable Online Business Bachelor’s Degrees
- Aspen University | BS in Business Administration. In this program, students will learn about the continuous stream of innovations in information technology that transform the business world. Students also learn about how a business operates on a global scale.
- CUNY School of Professional Studies | BS in Business. Students who are looking for a more traditional structure to their online degree will enjoy this program, which includes the option to complete a thesis project. CUNY faculty are based in New York City and are immersed in the New York business world.
- Georgia Southwestern State University | BBA in Management. This degree helps students gain a broader understanding of different aspects of business operations. They’re able to explore different methods to move the organization towards its specific goals.
- Tarleton State University | BBA in Human Resources Management. Students in this program will learn to create business concepts and strategies. They will be prepared to meet the demands of modern, fast-paced, competitive, and challenging work environments.
- Western Governors University | BS in Business Administration–Management. This degree in business management teaches students values-based leadership. Students gain business communication skills, learning how to write reports and deliver oral presentations.
Most Affordable Online Business Master’s Degrees
- Southern Utah University | Master of Business Administration–General Emphasis. Graduates of this program are expected to understand the ethical, global, and sociopolitical contexts of business. They’ll be able to integrate and use knowledge from core business fields, including marketing, finance, and accounting.
- New Mexico State University | Master of Business Administration. This master’s program is taught by experts in the field who can help students achieve their professional goals. It prepares online students for managerial and administrative positions in different organizations, including government and private institutions.
- Columbus State University | Master of Business Administration. Through this program, online learners learn to assess and analyze alternative courses of action using quantitative and qualitative tools.
- California State University–Bakersfield | Master of Business Administration. The core courses included in this MBA program are managerial skills, financial management and policies, and human resource management.
- Fort Hays State University | MBA–Human Resource Management. The students in this program learn about various management theories and practices used in recruitment and people management. They can choose from electives like Recruitment Selection and Retention, Total Compensation, and Training and Development.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
[query_class_embed] online-*subject-bachelors-degrees
Best Online Master’s Degrees
[query_class_embed] online-*subject-masters-degrees
Most In-Demand Business Jobs With an Online Business Degree
| Business Job | Required Education | Job Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Accounting Assistant | Bachelor’s degree | -3% |
| Marketing Specialist | Bachelor’s degree | 22% |
| Financial Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | 6% |
| Loan Officers | Bachelor’s degree | 1% |
| Human Resources Assistant | Bachelor’s degree | 10% |
Best Jobs With an Online Business Degree Explained
There are a lot of opportunities available for graduates with online business degrees, since skills like business management, financial accounting, and marketing are useful in almost every field. Going through a business education program can help you acquire the skills needed to get the jobs listed below.
An accounting assistant works with records, budgets, and making financial statements. They are the ones who update and create expense reports and process reimbursement forms. They also prepare bank deposits, check spreadsheets for accuracy, and maintain physical and digital financial records.
- Average Salary: $45,560
- Highest-paying States: District of Columbia, Massachusetts, Washington
- Minimum Experience in Field: None
A marketing specialist develops, executes, and monitors marketing campaigns in various media channels. They also do market research and stay on top of the latest trends in order to tailor an organization's marketing strategy. Along with developing marketing materials, they track campaign metrics to ensure that the brand benchmarks are met.
- Average Salary: $63,920
- Highest-paying States: Washington, Delaware, New York
- Minimum Experience in Field: None
A financial analyst performs financial forecasting and tracks operational metrics. They analyze financial data, create financial models, and report on financial performance. They use data to create forecasts and suggest actions to optimize profits. They have extensive knowledge of business intelligence and data mining practices.
A loan officer creates, updates, and monitors loan account records. They meet and interview loan applicants to determine their needs and assess their reliability. They should have excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Average Salary: $63,380
- Highest-paying States: New York, Nevada, District of Columbia
- Minimum Experience in Field: Moderate-term on-the-job training
A human resources assistant helps with everything regarding personnel. They maintain human resources files, records, and documentation. They also help with the recruitment and hiring process. They are the ones who interview applicants and answer their questions. They also perform audits of HR records and files.
- Average Salary: $62,290
- Highest-paying States: District of Columbia, Alaska, Massachusetts
- Minimum Experience in Field: None
Is an Online Business Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online business degree is worth it. Professionals who have online business associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees are in high demand. A business degree is a great option if you’re not sure what field you’d like to work in since business professionals are not only needed in financial organizations but in startups, non-profits, and cultural institutions, as well.
An online business degree is a great way to ensure you’ll have in-demand skills and job security for your whole career. By studying online, you can save money while getting a great education, setting yourself up for a future with good job prospects and less student debt.
Additional Reading About Business
[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/introduction-to-business/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/business-research-topics/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/how-to-build-your-own-business/
Cheapest Online Business Degrees FAQ
Yes, taking a cheap online business degree is easy. Aside from the flexibility that online programs offer, basic economic principles, budgeting, accounting, and marketing are subjects that anyone can learn. The usual coursework in these degrees includes financial accounting, college algebra, microeconomics, and macroeconomics.
The cheapest way to get a business degree online is to complete an online associate degree first. An associate degree can be completed within two years, unlike a bachelor’s degree which usually takes four years. An associate degree usually consists of 60 credits, and many of those credits can be transferred towards a bachelor’s program if you choose to continue your studies.
The business degree that pays the most is a master’s or doctorate because students tackle advanced business topics like Strategic Marketing, Business Strategy, and Managerial Finance. According to PayScale, MBAs earn $92,000 per year on average, a number that can increase depending on your experience, the organization, and job responsibilities.
Yes, a business degree requires math. Math skills are necessary for analyzing data and assessing figures and facts. If you’re a business major and you want to focus on finance, you’ll have to apply algebra and statistics skills. You’ll also need math to do financial analysis, inventory management, and accounting.
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.
