A bachelor’s in business administration qualifies graduates for a variety of careers related to business, finance, and operations. Entry-level business administration professionals often work as accountants, business operations specialists, and budget analysts. Experienced workers can enter high-paying careers as financial managers, management consultants, and top-level executives.
Due to the increasing globalization of trade and a growing reliance on market research, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects job opportunities for business and financial professionals to increase 10% from 2016 to 2026. Most jobs in business or finance, especially high-level positions, require a bachelor’s degree. Many students choose online business degrees because of the flexibility online learning affords. This guide outlines courses, concentrations, scholarship opportunities, and career paths for business administration students.
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| Rank | School | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Mexico State University-Main Campus | Las Cruces, NM |
| 2 | Southeast Missouri State University | Cape Girardeau, MO |
| 3 | University of Florida | Gainesville, FL |
| 4 | Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus | Portales, NM |
| 5 | Western Carolina University | Cullowhee, NC |
| 6 | University of North Alabama | Florence, AL |
| 7 | University of Louisiana at Monroe | Monroe, LA |
| 8 | Southeastern University | Lakeland, FL |
| 9 | Florida International University | Miami, FL |
| 10 | University of New Mexico-Main Campus | Albuquerque, NM |
Many types of organizations, including large corporations, nonprofits, and small startups, need business administration graduates to supervise employees, analyze financial data, and make important decisions. In addition, many business professions boast high salaries and fast job growth. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, business and financial professionals earn a median annual salary of $67,710, nearly double the national median for all occupations. Although a degree does not guarantee a particular wage or career, the table below includes common positions and salaries for graduates with a bachelor’s in business administration.
JOB GROWTH 2016-2026:8.8%Job Description
Business operations specialists manage and support the daily activities of a firm. Specific duties vary by employer. Operations specialists may identify customer needs, oversee business procedures, and optimize workflow. These specialists often work with multiple departments to make sure all employees are working efficiently toward a common goal.
JOB GROWTH 2016-2026:6.5%Job Description
Budget analysts help organizations in the private and public sectors manage their finances. They work with managers to develop an organization’s budget and project future financial needs. Budget analysts may monitor employee spending, review budget proposals, and meet with managers to discuss company financials. These analysts may also examine industry trends and adjust budgets accordingly.
JOB GROWTH 2016-2026:7.1%Job Description
These specialists manage and allocate human resources in a private business or public organization. Daily responsibilities may include interviewing prospective employees and handling employee disputes. These specialists also maintain employee records and enforce workplace rules and policies. Human resources specialists train new employees and work closely with managers to determine employment needs.
JOB GROWTH 2016-2026:14.3%Job Description
Management analysts, also called management consultants, analyze an organization’s operations and propose improvements. Responsibilities include interviewing employees, observing workplace operations, and analyzing financial reports. They discuss issues with high-level management and recommend solutions to improve productivity and profitability. Consultants sometimes work for the organization they analyze, but they more often work for a consulting company.
JOB GROWTH 2016-2026:18.7%Job Description
Financial managers maintain the overall financial health of an organization. They analyze the firm’s financial data, prepare reports, and advise managers on ways to reduce costs and maximize revenue. They also work closely with executives to make financial decisions and establish long-term financial goals. Financial managers supervise an organization’s accountants, financial analysts, and budget analysts.
Sources: BLS 2018
Geographic location can impact wages and career potential for business administration graduates. Some areas have a high demand for operations specialists, and some states support particularly lucrative industries. For example, the District of Columbia, Colorado, and New Jersey have the highest concentrations of business operations specialists. The highest-paying industries for these specialists include electronics manufacturing, natural gas distribution, and oil transportation. The information below covers job growth and salaries for business operations specialists in each state.
Number Currently Employed: 6,850
Projected Job Growth: +5.5 percent
Number Currently Employed: 3,220
Projected Job Growth: +0 percent
Number Currently Employed: N/A
Projected Job Growth: N/A
Number Currently Employed: 9,680
Projected Job Growth: +19.2 percent
Number Currently Employed: 143,500
Projected Job Growth: +11.9 percent
Number Currently Employed: 43,780
Projected Job Growth: +19 percent
Number Currently Employed: 37,150
Projected Job Growth: +5.1 percent
Number Currently Employed: 7,830
Projected Job Growth: +8.4 percent
Number Currently Employed: 1,620
Projected Job Growth: +10.4 percent
Number Currently Employed: 81,840
Projected Job Growth: +19.1 percent
Number Currently Employed: 33,670
Projected Job Growth: +13.3 percent
Number Currently Employed: 5,350
Projected Job Growth: +5.7 percent
Number Currently Employed: 2,770
Projected Job Growth: +11.2 percent
Number Currently Employed: 56,420
Projected Job Growth: +6.7 percent
Number Currently Employed: 13,680
Projected Job Growth: +10.4 percent
Number Currently Employed: 11,440
Projected Job Growth: +11.8 percent
Number Currently Employed: 8,510
Projected Job Growth: +5.8 percent
Number Currently Employed: 9,170
Projected Job Growth: +8.8 percent
Number Currently Employed: 15,980
Projected Job Growth: +11.8 percent
Number Currently Employed: 3,420
Projected Job Growth: +2 percent
Number Currently Employed: 22,260
Projected Job Growth: +4 percent
Number Currently Employed: 13,640
Projected Job Growth: +8.5 percent
Number Currently Employed: 31,350
Projected Job Growth: +7.9 percent
Number Currently Employed: 25,200
Projected Job Growth: +7.9 percent
Number Currently Employed: 3,340
Projected Job Growth: +4.3 percent
Number Currently Employed: 15,130
Projected Job Growth: +9.3 percent
Number Currently Employed: 2,950
Projected Job Growth: +8.6 percent
Number Currently Employed: 5,090
Projected Job Growth: +12.3 percent
Number Currently Employed: 6,830
Projected Job Growth: +12.3 percent
Number Currently Employed: 3,710
Projected Job Growth: +8.2 percent
Number Currently Employed: 46,220
Projected Job Growth: +7.1 percent
Number Currently Employed: 6,970
Projected Job Growth: +7.3 percent
Number Currently Employed: 26,710
Projected Job Growth: +12.5 percent
Number Currently Employed: 35,130
Projected Job Growth: +14.3 percent
Number Currently Employed: 2,660
Projected Job Growth: +11.2 percent
Number Currently Employed: 34,130
Projected Job Growth: +7.3 percent
Number Currently Employed: 6,310
Projected Job Growth: +3.5 percent
Number Currently Employed: 15,130
Projected Job Growth: +13.4 percent
Number Currently Employed: 16,790
Projected Job Growth: +5.8 percent
Number Currently Employed: 2,190
Projected Job Growth: +8.8 percent
Number Currently Employed: 4,350
Projected Job Growth: +9.3 percent
Number Currently Employed: 1,400
Projected Job Growth: +3.6 percent
Number Currently Employed: 13,690
Projected Job Growth: +14.9 percent
Number Currently Employed: N/A
Projected Job Growth: N/A
Number Currently Employed: 7,510
Projected Job Growth: +24.4 percent
Number Currently Employed: 960
Projected Job Growth: +6.5 percent
Number Currently Employed: 32,200
Projected Job Growth: +11 percent
Number Currently Employed: 35,890
Projected Job Growth: +17.2 percent
Number Currently Employed: 3,370
Projected Job Growth: +5 percent
Number Currently Employed: 13,410
Projected Job Growth: +11.8 percent
Number Currently Employed: 1,200
Projected Job Growth: +7.7 percent
Coursework varies depending on the specific program and school, but most bachelor’s in business administration programs include foundational courses in finance, decision-making, and management. These core courses develop key skills that enable students to create budgets, supervise employees, and set long-term goals for a firm.
The business administration courses below are common to most programs; however, each specific curriculum depends on elective choices, concentrations, and program requirements.
This course outlines the concepts managers use to lead effectively. Students learn about the manager’s role in various organizations and gain an understanding of planning, communication, and decision-making techniques.
Students learn to apply ethics principles to common business situations. They learn to make ethical decisions with regards to employee behavior, workplace environments, and international business.
This class provides an overview of macroeconomics and microeconomics. The course covers topics, including supply and demand, economic systems, and global trade. Students also learn about the government’s role in the economy.
Students learn to develop marketing strategies by analyzing market trends and customer needs. Students examine how to effectively produce, promote, price, and distribute goods and services.
Courses in electronic commerce, or e-commerce, teach students to apply management principles to online companies. Students examine common electronic business models, including business-to-customer and business-to-business ventures.
Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business administration should consider many factors when choosing a school. The program’s reputation can affect your ability to find a job after graduation. Be sure to factor in tuition cost and only consider schools you can afford. Also consider each school’s accreditation status and program requirements. The following section provides answers to common questions about earning a business administration bachelor’s degree online.
If you plan to enter a particular position or industry after graduation, concentrating in a specific area of business administration can improve job prospects. Concentrations provide specialized skills that can impress potential employers and help graduates stand out among job candidates. Common concentrations for business administration students include accounting, business analytics, entrepreneurship, and real estate.
Most students earn their online bachelor’s degree in business administration in about four years. Bachelor’s curricula generally comprise about 120 credits, including general education, foundational business, and elective courses. Some schools allow students to complete extra credits each semester to graduate more quickly, and some colleges offer accelerated programs that take less than four years to complete.
Many colleges require all students to complete general education requirements in addition to major courses. General education courses expose students to a variety of disciplines and ensure students receive a well-rounded education. Though they may not be business-focused, general education courses can contribute to a student’s business education. General education classes may cover topics including composition, public speaking, and mathematics.
Graduates with a bachelor’s in business administration pursue various careers, each of which requires different skills. Generally, organizations prize business administration graduates for their managerial, administrative, and financial abilities. Students may also master data analysis and market research techniques.
Most schools provide a list of available electives in the online academic catalog. Peruse this list, and note interesting electives. Business administration programs may have strict requirements that allow only a few elective courses. Also, remember that available electives often change each semester.
Earning a college degree can be costly. Fortunately, many financial aid opportunities ease the burden of paying for college. Many college students take out loans and pay tuition costs over time; however, students should only turn to private lenders after exhausting grant and scholarship options. Scholarships and grants are ideal forms of financial aid because they do not have to be repaid.
The Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering, a professional organization that connects project managers, cost analysts, and other cost estimators, offers scholarships to U.S., Canadian, and international students. Applicants must pursue a degree related to cost management, including business administration. Students must have completed one year of college, be enrolled full time at an accredited university, and have a minimum 3.0 GPA.
AfterCollege, an organization that helps college graduates find careers, has awarded more than one million dollars in aid to college students. The AfterCollege Business Student Scholarship supports undergraduate and graduate students working toward business degrees. Applicants must submit a short personal statement explaining their goals. In place of a written statement, applicants may submit an introductory video. AfterCollege awards one $500 scholarship each year.
Knowmad, a digital marketing agency specializing in website design, content marketing, and search engine optimization, offers this scholarship to undergraduates and graduates studying business, marketing, or communications at an accredited U.S. institution. Applicants must submit a resume and an essay about the future of digital marketing, marketing techniques, and consumer expectations. Knowmad awards one $500 scholarship per year.
The Project Management Institute, an international professional association for project managers, offers more than 40 scholarships for students majoring in project management, business administration, and related fields. Each scholarship may have specific requirements. For example, the Mary Keith Memorial Academic Scholarship for Women supports women studying project management. Scholarship amounts range from $1,000 to $7,500. Students submit one application for all scholarship opportunities.
The Securities and Insurance Licensing Association Foundation offers 10 scholarships worth $2,500 each. Applicants must attend an accredited institution, be a U.S. citizen, and have a cumulative 3.0 GPA at minimum. Scholarship candidates must either study full time, or work full time and study part time. Applicants must be working toward a degree in one of six areas, including business administration, finance, and marketing.
Las Cruces, NM
$$$$$
A public university with campuses across the state, NMSU offers an online bachelor's in business administration. This online degree prepares students for careers in fields such as transportation, healthcare, and manufacturing.
Students enrolled in NMSU's 120-credit online degree in business administration program can choose from concentrations such as human resource management or entrepreneurship. Many students participate in an optional internship to develop hands-on skills in the field. This program also offers the option to complete a research project with faculty experts.
Many graduates go on to earn graduate degrees in business. Others pursue careers in areas like project management, employment recruitment, and communications. Applicants need a minimum 2.75 GPA and an ACT composite score of 21 or higher or SAT score of 1060 or higher.
Cape Girardeau, MO
$$$$$
A public university located in Cape Girardeau, SEMO offers a bachelor of science in business administration. The online business administration degree allows students to customize their courses based on career interests.
Available courses include applied economics models, business research, and accounting analytics. Students can also choose from four-, eight-, and 16-week courses based on their schedule. This program offers experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and study abroad programs.
Many students choose to continue their education with SEMO's accelerated master of business administration (MBA) program. Students enrolled in SEMO's online MBA program can concentrate in general management, health administration, or sports management.
Gainesville, FL
$$$$$
Located in Gainesville, UF offers a bachelor of arts in business administration and a bachelor of science in business administration. Both online degrees teach students the disciplines needed to lead and operate a business.
The BS in business administration helps students build general business skills, rather than focusing only on business administration. UF's BA program allows students to specialize in a particular subject outside of business, such as anthropology, event management, or mass communication. Many graduates from these programs pursue careers as budget analysts, accountants, and fundraisers.
First-year students applying to either of these programs must demonstrate a cumulative "C" average. They must also submit ACT or SAT scores. Applicants with some college credit can transfer up to 59 credits. These applicants must hold a minimum 2.0 GPA from previous institutions.
Portales, NM
$$$$$
A public university located in Portales, ENMU offers an online bachelor of business administration that teaches students how to start and run a business. The online bachelor's in business administration program gives students the option to study general business or focus on a particular subject based on their career interests.
Emphasis areas include information systems, hospitality management, and personal financial planning. This fully online program also gives students the flexibility to create their own learning schedule. Many courses use online collaboration tools such as Mediasite, Blackboard, and Collaborate. Graduates can pursue roles like entrepreneur, business researcher, management analyst, and marketing manager.
ENMU offers an affordable tuition rate for its online bachelor's in business administration program. Students can also apply for various scholarships to help pay for tuition.
Cullowhee, NC
$$$$$
WCU's bachelor of science in business administration program teaches students about the relationship between business and law, including the application of law in business management.
The 120-credit online bachelor's in business administration program includes liberal studies course requirements in addition to major requirements. Students can also choose from various law electives, such as international business law, media law, and labor law. Additionally, students can complete a supervised internship. Students in their final year can also complete independent research in business law.
First-year applicants must submit ACT or SAT scores, a personal essay, and recommendation letters. WCU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Florence, AL
$$$$$
A public university located in Florence, UNA offers a fully online bachelor of business administration program. Students can choose between eight-week and 16-week courses.
Students complete core business classes such as international business, managerial communications, and principles of marketing. They can also choose from electives in fields such as finance, economics, and accounting. Students must apply separately to the College of Business after completing 45 credits of required coursework.
Once admitted, students can enroll in business major courses. UNA offers a 20% scholarship to all students in the program.
Monroe, LA
$$$$$
ULM offers an online bachelor of business administration degree that provides students with a general introduction to the field. The 120-credit program allows students to combine two concentration areas to create a major suited to their career interests. Students seeking to complete their degree fully online can only choose from management and marketing at this time.
Fully online courses help working professionals complete their degree without career disruption. Course sizes typically remain small, offering a personalized learning environment. Transfer students must complete college-level English and math with a minimum "C" average. Applicants can test out of particular courses based on professional experience through Prior Learning Assessment options.
Lakeland, FL
$$$$$
A private school located in Lakeland, Florida, SEU offers a bachelor of business administration that prepares students for leadership roles in business. The 120-credit online bachelor's in business administration degree offers concentrations in business leadership and marketing communication.
Students begin the program with core requirement courses. They then transition into business courses, studying topics such as accounting, principled leadership, and business law. Many courses focus on developing a business leadership style. The program offers flexible options to help busy professionals balance work with school. Graduates often pursue careers as account managers, data analysts, and nonprofit managers.
First-year applicants must submit transcripts or GED scores with their application. They must also submit a personal essay and character references. Applicants can optionally submit ACT or SAT scores to bolster their application.
Miami, FL
$$$$$
A public university located in Miami, FIU offers an online bachelor of business administration with a concentration in business finance. The program prepares students for careers in banking and corporate investments.
The 120-credit online bachelor's in business administration program includes 60 lower-division credits and 60 credits of business-specific courses. Core business courses include financial management, applied business statistics, and operations management. The finance track emphasizes portfolio management, international finance, and financial risk management.
Applicants need a minimum 2.5 GPA. Transfer students must complete a math placement assessment. Applicants must submit ACT or SAT scores in addition to high school transcripts.
Albuquerque, NM
$$$$$
A public university located in Albuquerque, UNM offers an online bachelor of business administration with a concentration in general management. The program prepares students to run a successful company and communicate with employees and stakeholders.
The 43-credit online business administration bachelor's degree features an eight-week course format that helps students complete the degree quickly. Core business courses include marketing management, accounting, and legal issues for managers. Many students also participate in experiential learning opportunities, like internships. They can also take advantage of career services to help prepare for future job opportunities.
Students must apply separately to the Anderson School Advisement Center after completing 60 credits of coursework at the school. Applicants must maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA in pre-admission coursework to qualify for admission.
Fullerton, CA
$$$$$
Part of the CSU public university system, Cal State Fullerton offers an online bachelor of arts in business administration with a concentration in professional business. This program teaches students to effectively manage people and processes.
Cal State Fullerton's online bachelor's in business administration program prepares students for careers in fields like international business, general consulting, and financial operations. Courses last eight weeks. Learners study topics like financial accounting, business writing, microeconomics, and macroeconomics. Students typically take one class at a time and complete the degree in three years. Applicants need at least 66 prior credits and a minimum 2.0 GPA.
Winona Lake, IN
$$$$$
A private, Christian college, Grace offers an online bachelor of science in business administration that covers business and finance concepts from within a biblical framework.
The 45-credit online bachelor's in business administration program prepares students for careers in sales management, budget analysis, and personal finance advising. Students must complete around 60 credits prior to applying to this program. Business coursework includes marketing in a technological age, interpreting basic statistics, and operations management. Students collaborate and interact with faculty and peers through forums, discussion boards, and chats. Many students complete the degree in 16 months.
Students need high bandwidth internet access, a flash player, and speakers for this online program. Applicants need a minimum 2.0 GPA. Many applicants complete an interview as part of the admissions process.
Tuscaloosa, AL
$$$$$
A public school located in Tuscaloosa, UA offers an online bachelor of science in commerce and business administration. The 120-credit fully online bachelor's in business administration degree allows working professionals to develop their business skills without career disruption.
Students complete general education requirements and business courses. Available business courses include strategic management, business finance, and principles of accounting. Many students choose to minor in related fields, such as real estate, public policy, communication studies, and computing technology and applications. The program also offers electives in accounting, marketing, and management. Applicants need a minimum 2.0 GPA.
San Diego, CA
$$$$$
A public research university located in California, SDSU offers an online bachelor of science in business administration with a flexible course schedule for working professionals.
The online business administration bachelor's degree-completion program covers topics like marketing, investments, business negotiations, and information systems analysis. The program offers each course two times a year in eight-week blocks. This largely self-paced program helps students complete their degree in a flexible format. Many students complete this degree in two years. Graduates can pursue careers in areas like project management, client support, and business analysis.
Applicants need 60 or more transferable credits and a minimum 2.75 GPA to qualify for admission. They also cannot already hold a bachelor's degree. SDSU does not accept applications from all states.
Kearney, NE
$$$$$
Part of the UN public university system, UNK offers an online bachelor of science in business administration that teaches students foundational business skills through experiential learning.
The 120-credit online bachelor's in business administration degree requires students to minor in accounting, marketing/management, or entrepreneurship. Students can complete minors completely online. General business courses include principles of marketing, business communications, and business law. Many graduates pursue careers as loan officers, business consultants, and real estate agents.
Applicants must submit high school or college transcripts and SAT or ACT scores. Admission requires ACT scores of 20 or higher or SAT scores of 1040 or higher. Applicants also need a minimum 3.0 cumulative high school GPA to qualify for admission.
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