Affordable Online Business Degree
Business degrees help students develop the critical thinking, financial, management, and decision-making skills needed to contribute to a variety of organizations and industries.
According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, 19% of college graduates in 2017-2018 majored in business.
The popularity of business degrees is due in part to their versatility. Graduates can find work in a range of positions across virtually any industry, including marketing, management, and finance. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects faster-than-average job growth for business and finance professionals between 2018-2018.
Business is often a lucrative career choice, too. In just one example, graduates with a bachelor's degree in business are qualified to work as entry-level management analysts, who earn a median salary of $85,260 per year.
Finding the right program for you isn't just about finding the cheapest online business degree. This guide ranks the most affordable online business bachelor's degrees to help students find the right programs for their needs. It also covers other important information for prospective students, including common courses, admission requirements, and potential business careers and salaries for graduates.
Featured Online Bachelor's in Business Degrees
FAQ Abut Affordable Bachelor's in Business Degrees
How Long Does It Take to Complete a Bachelor's in Business Program?
An online bachelor's in business typically takes four years of full-time study to complete.
What Can I Do With a Bachelor's in Business?
A bachelor's in business prepares graduates for entry-level opportunities in diverse industries, such as marketing, management, finance, and accounting.
Is a Business Degree a BA or a BS?
Although some programs award bachelor of arts degrees, most online business bachelor's programs result in a bachelor of science or a bachelor of business administration degree.
Which Business Concentration Is the Best?
The best concentration for a business student depends entirely on their own interests and goals. General tracks are available for students who aren't sure of their professional goals.
Do You Need a Bachelor's in Business to Get an MBA?
No, business schools consider MBA applicants with backgrounds in nearly any academic discipline. MBAs are interdisciplinary programs designed to suit diverse student populations.
What Is an Online Bachelor's in Business Degree?
A bachelor's in business is an undergraduate program that provides students with a background in business concepts, legal and social responsibility, and management. Many schools offer affordable online business degrees where students develop core skills in areas like accounting and quantitative methods, leadership, communication, financial analysis, and problem-solving.
The most affordable online business degrees attract many types of learners. Recent high school graduates looking for a flexible college experience may seek out online programs, while working professionals may choose an online business degree to help them advance in their careers while maintaining employment.
Most Affordable Online Bachelor's in Business
#1 Cheapest Online Business Bachelor’s Degrees
Excelsior College
- Albany, NY
- 4 years
- Online
Looking to earn a flexible online degree in business? Consider Excelsior College. The college offers 54 online bachelor's degree programs, reaching distance learners worldwide. The bachelor of science in business is a wise choice for students seeking competitive, flexible study applicable to a career in business. The business program supports flexible study for learners at a distance.
During the business program, students complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the business field. Students complete general education and advanced coursework, gaining broad and specific skills. Enrollees have the option to modify their studies, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations.
With a bachelor's degree, graduates can increase their job opportunities and earning potential. At the college, students can expect to earn a median salary of $60,200 six years after graduation. To learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements, students should contact the financial aid office.
Excelsior College at a Glance:
Total Online Programs: 101
Online Bachelor's Programs: 54
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#2 Cheapest Online Business Bachelor’s Degrees
University of Missouri
- Columbia, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Missouri, located in Columbia, provides numerous top-tier bachelor's degree programs. The institution supports 14 remote online bachelor's programs. The bachelor of science in business administration program supports flexible, rigorous study.
Learners benefit from a rigorous curriculum that enables flexible study. Majors work with academic advisors to select classes that match their interests and fit their schedule. Online students also choose minors and electives to individualize the degree.
Undergraduates pay a tuition rate of $26,991 at the school. Learners at the accredited institution can pursue funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, to support their studies. The college reports that students receive an average of $10,464 in financial aid.
University of Missouri at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 9,722
Total Online Programs: 58
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Admission Rate: 81%
Percent Online Enrollment
32%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Cheapest Online Business Bachelor’s Degrees
Dickinson State University
- Dickinson, ND
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking for competitive online learning opportunities should consider Dickinson State University's online bachelor's programs. Located in North Dakota, the public institution boasts 23 online bachelor's degree programs. Distance learners interested in the business field can enroll in the school's BBA in accounting program.
The program prepares business management students for the demands of the accounting field. With help from their academic advisor, students can modify their course load to suit their needs. Enrollees can choose electives and minors to supplement their learning.
Undergraduate business management students typically pay $9,782 in tuition. Learners at the accredited institution can pursue funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, to support their studies. On average, enrollees receive $5,053 in financial aid.
Dickinson State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 565
Total Online Programs: 29
Online Bachelor's Programs: 23
Admission Rate: 100%
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Cheapest Online Business Bachelor’s Degrees
Walsh College
- Troy, MI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Walsh College, a private, nonprofit, four-year institution, offers competitive bachelor's degree programs. The private school supports distance learners across five online bachelor's degree programs. The bachelor of business administration provides a premier education in the field.
The BBA curriculum enables flexible study. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to modify their classes to suit career interests.
Undergraduate business management students typically pay $11,115 in tuition. Students at the accredited institution can pursue funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, to support their studies.
Walsh College at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,733
Total Online Programs: 13
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Cheapest Online Business Bachelor’s Degrees
Union Institute and University
- Cincinnati, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Union Institute and University supports flexible distance learning opportunities across 22 online degree programs. Undergraduate students from across the globe can connect with Union Institute and University through one of its 14 fully online bachelor's degree programs. Students seeking competitive, customizable study relevant to the Business field will find the school's online bachelor's in business management program to be an attractive option. Learners in the business program benefit from flexible study, with the option to enroll full- or part-time.
During the business program, students complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the business field. Enrollees also attend general education classes, to gain a well-rounded education. With assistance from their academic advisor, degree-seekers can modify their course load, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations.
A bachelor's degree often enables graduates to access higher-paying jobs and more employment opportunities. At the college, students can expect to earn a median salary of $64,200 six years after graduation. Students can meet with the business department directly to inquire about admission requirements, application materials, and more.
Union Institute and University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 853
Total Online Programs: 22
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Cheapest Online Business Bachelor’s Degrees
University of the Cumberlands
- Williamsburg, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners seeking flexible online study should consider the University of the Cumberlands. The institution supports 10 remote online bachelor's degree programs. The bachelor's in business administration is one of 10 programs supporting distance learners.
The business program connects students with a supportive online learning community, while enabling flexibility. Learners can also customize their studies, after consultations with an academic advisor. Students can also select electives.
Undergraduate tuition at the school averages $9,875. Enrollees can receive scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid through the college.
University of the Cumberlands at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 15,449
Total Online Programs: 46
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Admission Rate: 80%
Percent Online Enrollment
91%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Cheapest Online Business Bachelor’s Degrees
Kansas State University
- Manhattan, KS
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Kansas State University supports 5,850 distance learners across 73 fully online programs. Undergraduate degree-seekers can choose from 13 online bachelor's programs. Individuals looking for a business-adjacent career can pursue study through the bachelor's in business administration program at their own pace. The business program allows for full- or part-time study, making it a flexible choice for working professionals and busy students.
Throughout the program, students attend industry-relevant lectures while completing business-specific coursework. Throughout their studies, enrollees gain knowledge and skills applicable to the business field. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations.
The value of a bachelor's degree is clear. Many graduates increase their job opportunities and earning potential. The college boasts a median salary of $41,400 for graduates six years after completing their studies. Typically, undergraduate students pay $18,103 in tuition and fees each year. Learners can meet with the Office of Financial Aid to learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid.
Kansas State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 5,850
Total Online Programs: 73
Online Bachelor's Programs: 13
Admission Rate: 95%
Percent Online Enrollment
27%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Cheapest Online Business Bachelor’s Degrees
Central Methodist University
- Fayette, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking for a flexible bachelor's level education should consider Central Methodist University. The private college supports distance learners across 21 online bachelor's degree programs. Distance learners can enroll in the business bachelor's program to complete a college degree online.
The online business degree prioritizes flexibility. Students can work with their academic advisor to modify their coursework to meet their academic and career goals. Learners can select electives based on their interests.
Undergraduates pay about $6,070 in tuition at the school. Business learners can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities while at the school.
Central Methodist University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 2,181
Total Online Programs: 30
Online Bachelor's Programs: 21
Admission Rate: 100%
Retention Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
57%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Cheapest Online Business Bachelor’s Degrees
Bellevue University
- Bellevue, NE
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in online education, Bellevue University facilitates distance learning across 79 online degree programs. Undergraduate students from across the globe can connect with Bellevue University through one of its 54 fully online bachelor's degree programs. From its main campus in Nebraska, the school supports an online bachelor of science in business program. The business program accommodates flexible study, so enrollees can learn at their own pace.
Throughout the program, students attend industry-relevant lectures while completing business-specific coursework. Students complete general education and advanced coursework, gaining broad and specific skills. While enrolled, learners can customize their studies by choosing electives, minors, and degree concentrations.
Graduates possessing a bachelor's degree often access more job opportunities and grow their earning potential over time. The institution reports a median salary of $52,200 earned by graduates six years after completing their studies. Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements.
Bellevue University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 11,008
Total Online Programs: 79
Online Bachelor's Programs: 54
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
95%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Cheapest Online Business Bachelor’s Degrees
University of Wisconsin Whitewater
- Whitewater, WI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Wisconsin Whitewater supports 4,715 distance learners across two fully online programs. Undergraduate students can pursue an online bachelor degree program. Learners hoping to advance in the business field can enroll in the college's online bachelor's in general business program. The business program prioritizes flexibility through full- and part-time study options.
During the business program, students complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the field. These classes equip students with business-specific and broad knowledge and skills. Enrollees have the option to modify their studies, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations.
Many graduates easily grow their earning potential with a bachelor's degree. According to the institution, enrollees can earn a median salary of $37,500 six years after finishing their degree. Though degree costs vary, undergraduate students pay an average of $12,309 per year in tuition and fees. Students interested in learning more about admission requirements, application materials, and financial aid opportunities should directly contact the business department.
University of Wisconsin Whitewater at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 4,715
Total Online Programs: 2
Online Bachelor's Programs: 1
Admission Rate: 79%
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Online Bachelor's in Business Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Choosing an Online Program
Prospective students should take time to evaluate multiple options before committing to a program. Visit the link below to learn about important factors to consider throughout your selection process.
What to Expect From a Bachelor's in Business Program?
Students pursuing an online bachelor's degree in business can often choose from a variety of courses and concentrations. Offerings vary by program. Below, you can explore a few common courses and concentrations often found in online business degree programs.
Business Degree Concentrations
Marketing
This concentration teaches students how to identify marketing opportunities and develop and launch appropriate, forward-thinking business strategies. Courses cover topics like market research, consumer behavior, international marketing, and marketing communications. Graduates may work in areas such as advertising, sales management, distribution, and business marketing.
Finance
This concentration gives students knowledge and skills applicable to careers in corporate finance, real estate, international finance, banking, and investments. Courses cover topics like financial markets, financial analysis and planning, accounting, and risk management.
Economics
This concentration teaches students to research and analyze economic data and trends. With these skills, graduates can create economic forecasts and reports to advise companies on business policies and strategies. Common courses include intermediate micro- and macroeconomics, capital markets, and international economics.
Management
A management concentration is a popular choice for many undergraduate business students. Common areas of study include organizational behavior, negotiation, entrepreneurship, and human resource management. Graduates can pursue managerial roles in diverse industries.
International Business
This concentration examines international business concepts and perspectives. Common courses include international accounting and finance, management in a global economy, and cultural environments of international business. The concentration may also include study abroad experiences and foreign language courses.
Bachelor's in Business Degree Curriculum
- Business Law: A course in business law explores the nature and function of law in a business environment. Learners study the legal system, various types of law, consumer issues, and contract formation and breaches.
- Principles of Management: This course provides an introduction to the basic managerial functions of planning, organizing, and leading businesses. Students learn to effectively lead employees by understanding individual needs and motivations. They often apply course concepts to practical workplace scenarios to study the roles and responsibilities of managers.
- Financial Management: This course examines the role of financial managers in large corporations, small businesses, and new business endeavors. Coursework covers topics like financial analysis, forecasting, asset and liability management, and fundraising.
Business Careers
Graduates with an online business bachelor's degree can pursue a variety of roles across diverse industries. The following list outlines popular careers for business graduates, including common duties and potential salaries.
Management Analysts
| Median Salary (2019): $85,260
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029): 26%
|
Management analysts, sometimes called management consultants, make recommendations to improve organizational efficiency. Many management consultants work as contractors rather than full-time employees. They may specialize in areas like healthcare or telecommunications.
Management analysts work closely with an organization's managers. Common tasks include interviewing and observing personnel, analyzing financial data, and developing solutions to problems.
Entry-level management analysts typically need at least a bachelor's degree and several years of relevant work experience, and some employers prefer to hire candidates with an MBA. These professionals benefit from strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Accountants
| Median Salary (2019): $71,550
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029): 6%
|
Accountants provide financial services for individual and corporate clients. They may examine financial records for accuracy and compliance with regulations, prepare tax returns, assess financial operations, and make suggestions to enhance revenue or reduce costs.
Accountants may specialize in a certain area, such as providing services to the general public, aiding internal business operations, or working on behalf of government agencies.
Entry-level accountants typically need a bachelor's degree. This career requires keen analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
Human Resources Specialists
| Median Salary (2019): $61,920
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029): 5%
|
Human resources specialists work for an organization's HR department, interviewing job applicants, contacting references, aiding with new employee orientation, and processing paperwork and employment records. They may also process payroll, administer benefits, and handle employee questions or problems.
This career typically requires a bachelor's degree in business, human resources, or a related field. Some positions may require previous work experience in an HR department or in customer service.
Human resources specialists can pursue certification through organizations like the Society for Human Resource Management. They benefit from strong communication and decision-making skills.
