Discover Online Bachelor's Degree Programs in Business Administration
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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Online Bachelor's in Business Administration
#1 Online Business Administration Degrees
New Mexico State University
- Las Cruces, NM
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
New Mexico State University is a public institution educating students from its Las Cruces campus. The school offers 40 online programs for degree-seekers who prefer an online enrollment option. The online bachelor of business administration from the institution prepares online learners to enter careers in business management.
In addition to fulfilling core requirements, individuals studying business management gain specialized knowledge during advanced classes. Upper-division requirements help learners develop critical thinking and analytical skills, which graduates can apply to careers in a variety of fields. Degree-seekers pursuing the degree full time typically graduate in four years, with at least 120 credits.
Online and on-campus learners can access support services, including career resources, from the school. Enrollees with financial need can apply for federal loans and grants, such as the Pell Grant.
New Mexico State University Facts:
Acceptance Rate: 55%
Total Programs: 192
Total Bachelor's Programs: 89
Online Bachelor's Programs: 12
Permits Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
44%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Online Business Administration Degrees
Southeast Missouri State University
- Cape Girardeau, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students can pursue 133 programs from Southeast Missouri State University, located in Cape Girardeau. The public institution's academic offerings include in-person and online bachelor's programs. The school delivers an online program for students interested in business management.
The online bachelor's degree in business administration delivers a high-quality learning experience and incorporates scheduling flexibility. While completing general education requirements, students gain critical thinking skills they can apply to business careers and advanced studies. Elective classes and upper-division coursework help degree-seekers gain field-specific skills. Undergraduates consult with faculty mentors and academic advisors to select courses based on their professional goals.
Affordable tuition rates and institutional funding make pursuing undergraduate studies easier for many learners. Students can consult with financial aid counselors to explore funding options, such as scholarships and grants.
Southeast Missouri State University Numbers:
Number of Online Students: 5,553
Undergraduate Admission Rate: 86%
Total Bachelor's Programs: 76
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Permits Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
52%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Online Business Administration Degrees
University of Florida
- Gainesville, FL
- 4 years
- Online
With a main campus in Gainesville, the University of Florida is a public institution. The school offers 22 online programs, allowing students to pursue their degree without relocating. The online bachelor of science in business administration features a curriculum designed to prepare learners for business management careers.
Degree-seekers in the business management program complete core classes and specialized courses in the field. Upper-division requirements help learners develop and strengthen important skills, such as critical thinking and communication. Degree-seekers typically require four years to earn the 120-credit bachelor's degree if enrolled full time.
The school provides student support services, such as academic advising and career counseling, to support learners' overall success. Enrollees at the accredited institution can qualify for federal financial aid programs, such as the Pell Grant.
University of Florida Fast Facts:
Rate of Undergraduate Admission: 32%
Total Programs: 22
Total Bachelor's Programs: 21
Online Bachelor's Programs: 21
Transfer Credits Counted: No
Out-of-state
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online Business Administration Degrees
Eastern New Mexico University
- Portales, NM
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Eastern New Mexico University offers 75 programs from its Portales campus. The public institution delivers online and in-person bachelor's programs. The school's undergraduate options include a business management program available in a convenient online format.
The flexible bachelor of business administration program delivers scheduling options for online enrollees. The curriculum features general education requirements, which help students develop transferable soft skills. Elective classes and upper-division coursework help degree-seekers gain field-specific skills. Faculty mentors and academic advisors help undergraduates customize the program based on their professional goals.
The online institution also prioritizes affordability. Students can discuss funding options with financial aid counselors.
Eastern New Mexico University Fast Facts:
Number of Online Students: 3,946
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Bachelor's Programs: 46
Online Bachelor's Programs: 18
Permits Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
69%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Online Business Administration Degrees
Western Carolina University
- Cullowhee, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Western Carolina University delivers an online BSBA in business administration and law that is ideal for busy learners interested in advancing their business management skills. Located in Cullowhee, North Carolina, the school delivers academic programs on campus. Distance students can enroll in any of the school's eight online bachelor's programs.
Online learners in the business management program benefit from scheduling flexibility and receive a high-quality educational experience. Online programs typically offer customizable scheduling options, which are ideal for busy learners. Online classes feature virtual discussions and opportunities to consult with faculty members. Undergraduate degree-seekers typically graduate in four years.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce the financial burden of earning an undergraduate degree. The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid. Financial aid counselors help students understand funding options, such as scholarships and grants.
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Online Business Administration Degrees
University of North Alabama
- Florence, AL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners interested in business management can enroll in the online bachelor of business administration from the University of North Alabama. Situated in Florence, the school offers academic programs to prepare degree-seekers for careers in various industries. The school's 29 online programs include 10 options for bachelor's students.
The flexible online business management program offers a high-quality learning experience. Busy students and working professionals benefit from the distance learning format. Online learners can consult with professors virtually. Undergraduate degree-seekers usually earn their bachelor's in four years of full-time study.
Students pursuing their bachelor's degree online benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding. The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers can qualify for federal financial aid programs, such as the Pell Grant. Financial aid counseling can help students reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Online Business Administration Degrees
University of Louisiana at Monroe
- Monroe, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Degree-seekers at the public University of Louisiana at Monroe can attend classes in person or online. With 34 online programs, the school educates learners based in the state and throughout the country. The flexible bachelor of business administration program allows students to continue working while earning their business management degree.
Learners in the bachelor's program take core major classes to develop a foundation for upper-division coursework. Specialized electives allow degree-seekers to customize the program based on their goals and interests. The school's online career resources include faculty advisors and career counselors, who help undergraduates locate job placements.
Enrollees at the accredited institution can qualify for federal financial aid programs, such as the Pell Grant. For details about application deadlines and requirements, prospective applicants can contact an admissions advisor.
University of Louisiana at Monroe Numbers:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 38
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Number of Online Students: 3,756
Undergraduate Admission Rate: 80%
Graduation Rate: 47%
Accepts Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
43%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Online Business Administration Degrees
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida International University enrolls degree-seekers in its top-ranked online BBA in finance program. The public institution offers traditional programs at its Miami campus, along with a variety of online bachelor's programs. The school's online programs use a flexible learning format that helps learners balance school with other responsibilities.
During the online bachelor's program, undergraduates take advanced coursework in business management. Undergraduates meet with faculty mentors and academic advisors to create an individual degree plan based on their career goals. The school's online services help distance learners improve academically and plan for the workforce.
Thanks to the school's accreditation, distance learners can submit the FAFSA and use financial aid like the Pell Grant to pay for their degree. Students can also use scholarships, grants, and loans to pay for their education.
Florida International University at a Glance:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 78
Online Bachelor's Programs: 36
Number of Online Students: 39,863
Percent of Students Admitted: 58%
Percent of Students who Graduate: 63%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Online Business Administration Degrees
University of New Mexico
- Albuquerque, NM
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A bachelor's degree from the University of New Mexico prepares graduates for new career opportunities and advancement. Learners can choose from 94 bachelor's programs, including an online BBA program. Online learning allows working students to conveniently earn accredited degrees.
The school may consider college entrance scores in the application process. Distance learners work with advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff at the school. Distance learners communicate with faculty and peers in a virtual learning environment.
University of New Mexico Facts:
Undergraduate Tuition Rate: $6,299 in-state; $21,716 out-of-state
Average Student Aid: $8,000
Average Price After Aid: $11,368
Undergraduate Graduation Rate: 54%
Transfer Credits Counted: No
The University of New Mexico has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Online Business Administration Degrees
California State University, Fullerton
- Fullerton, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
California State University, Fullerton offers an online BA in business administration for busy learners who want to earn their business management degree while maintaining employment. The school educates degree-seekers on campus and remotely. Among the school's 114 available programs are seven online options for distance students.
The online business management degree delivers flexible learning options. Busy learners balancing work and school can benefit from the online program's customizable nature. Learners in online classes can participate in asynchronous discussions and network with peers. Undergraduates typically require four years to earn their bachelor's degree if enrolled full time.
Affordable tuition rates and institutional funding make pursuing higher education easier for many learners. Degree-seekers at the accredited institution can qualify for federal grants and loans. Students can consult with financial aid counselors to explore funding options, such as scholarships and grants.
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
How Much Can You Make in a Business Administration Career?
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.
Median Annual Salary: $75,240
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.
Median Annual Salary: $75,240
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.
Median Annual Salary: $60,350
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.
Median Annual Salary: $82,450
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.
Median Annual Salary: $125,080
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
What Courses Can Be Taken for an Online Business Administration Degree?
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.
Principles of Management
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.
Business Ethics
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.
Principles of Economics
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.
Introduction to Marketing
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.
Electronic Commerce
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.
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions on Courses and Careers in Business Administration Program
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.
Should I choose a concentration?
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.
How long will it take to complete the curriculum?
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.
Will I need to take courses outside of business?
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.
What are the best skills for business administration students to learn?
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.
How should I choose which electives to take?
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.
Scholarships & Financial Aid for Business Administration Programs
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.
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