Most Affordable Online Business Degrees 2024

An online business degree is a great investment in your future career — especially if you choose from one of these affordable programs.
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Updated January 26, 2024

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A business degree can be a great investment because it can help you qualify for high-paying business careers in finance, marketing, or human resources.

Your return on that investment will be even better if you keep your costs low on the front end. This is why we've rounded up a list of the most affordable online business degrees available in 2024.

Keep reading to find out how the right online program can save you money, give you more flexibility, and prepare you for a promising, in-demand career.

Featured Online Business Degree Programs

Top Program Rankings Summary

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 The Pennsylvania State University
University Park, PA
$15,400 $25,084 92%
#2 The University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL
$3,735 $16,004 53%
#3 University of the Cumberlands
Williamsburg, KY
$9,875 $9,875 85%
#4 University of Missouri
Columbia, MO
$10,017 $28,992 77%
#5 George Mason University
Fairfax, VA
$9,510 $32,970 91%
#6 University of Missouri-St Louis
Saint Louis, MO
$12,015 $30,570 57%
#7 Excelsior College
Albany, NY
Not provided Not provided Not provided
#8 University of Louisville
Louisville, KY
$12,174 $28,520 75%
#9 Lamar University
Beaumont, TX
$6,228 $16,020 88%
#10 Campbellsville University
Campbellsville, KY
$24,900 $24,900 Not provided

2024’s Most Affordable Online Business Degrees

#1 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees 2024

The Pennsylvania State University

  • University Park, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $626 (less than 60 credits); $671 (60 credits or more)

Out-of-State | $626 (less than 60 credits); $671 (60 credits or more)

Credits to Graduate: 120

The Penn State World Campus online bachelor of science in business combines an intensive business core with a supplementary project management focus. Learning emphasizes versatile, adaptable skills for the workforce. Students engage with coursework in accounting and finance, organizational management, and marketing. 

Six 18-credit specialization options offer customization opportunities. Students can specialize in accounting, entrepreneurship, financial or health services, marketing and management, or a self-designed concentration. 

Learners gain full access to Penn State's extensive career services center. Resources include career counselors, internships, recruitment opportunities, and occupational research support. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,400
Out-of-state
$25,084
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$23,189
Out-of-state
$39,248
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
88,914
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#2 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees 2024

The University of West Florida

  • Pensacola, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $219

Out-of-State | $342 (with waiver); $648 (without waiver)

Credits to Graduate: 120

UWF's online BS in business administration emphasizes data-driven problem-solving and decision-making skills. Course content focuses on business management, economics, finance, and marketing, along with coverage of modern enterprise information systems.

Working professionals seeking educational upgrades and ambitious learners planning to pursue advanced business degrees can benefit from this program. Transfer students can bring up to 90 credits from accredited programs, creating a path to graduation in as little as one year.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,735
Out-of-state
$16,004
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,088
Out-of-state
$22,166
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
53%
Students Enrolled
13,288
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
88% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees 2024

University of the Cumberlands

  • Williamsburg, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $220

Out-of-State | $220

Credits to Graduate: 120

Cumberlands' online business administration degree focuses on proven organizational management principles. Learning also emphasizes innovation and entrepreneurship, equipping graduates with the skills to guide new and developing ventures to commercial success.

Students can pursue generalist degrees or concentrations in business administration, finance, retail marketing, and strategic marketing. 

Cumberlands may appeal to cost-conscious students for its low tuition costs and assistance. Beyond low online tuition rates, Cumberlands provides financing to 96% of students through its generous aid program.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,875
Out-of-state
$9,875
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,282
Out-of-state
$4,282
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
19,272
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
95% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees 2024

University of Missouri

  • Columbia, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $617

Out-of-State | $617

Credits to Graduate: 120

Mizzou's online BS in business administration covers business fundamentals while emphasizing data analysis. Offered through the acclaimed Trulaske College of Business, the program is ideal for working professionals and other returning students. It features a 100% online delivery model that requires no physical campus presence.

Mizzou allows students to reduce costs by overloading their full-time study schedules. Learners taking 12-18 credits per semester pay a flat rate, providing the opportunity to cut per-credit costs by up to one-third.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,017
Out-of-state
$28,992
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,950
Out-of-state
$27,245
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
31,401
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
63% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees 2024

George Mason University

  • Fairfax, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $577

Out-of-State | $1,555

Credits to Graduate: 120

Mason's online BS in business emphasizes adaptable skills for an increasingly technology-focused global business environment. Learners benefit from an enriched lineup of eight concentrations. Options include accounting, information systems, marketing, operations, and supply chain management. 

Mason allows students to transfer up to 90 credits into the 100% online program. Graduates may qualify for traditional and emerging business careers, including technical roles in data science and IT project management. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,510
Out-of-state
$32,970
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,035
Out-of-state
$34,347
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
38,628
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
78% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees 2024

University of Missouri-St Louis

  • Saint Louis, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $541

Out-of-State | $812 (Midwest Student Exchange); $1,255 (nonresident)

Credits to Graduate: 120

UMSL's online BS in business administration grounds students in foundational topics, including accounting, economics, and organizational management. Degree-seekers then proceed into concentrated learning in their choice of nine specialization areas, including business information systems, cybersecurity, organizational management, and supply chain management. 

The program's flexibility profile includes 100% online and hybrid learning options. Internship components add experiential value and networking opportunities. Students can seek placements with the guidance of UMSL's internship coordinator.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,015
Out-of-state
$30,570
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,528
Out-of-state
$30,756
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
15,189
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees 2024

Excelsior College

  • Albany, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online

Programmatic Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $510

Out-of-State | $510

Credits to Graduate: 120

Excelsior's online business bachelor's degrees include two program options. Learners can earn a bachelor of science in business or a bachelor of professional studies in business and management. Both programs hold IACBE accreditation.

The BS in business emphasizes practical skills. Students can pursue concentrations in accounting, finance, general business, HR management, and more.

Learners in the BPA in business and management path engage with a well-rounded, comprehensive curriculum. Coursework covers organizational management essentials, along with communication, leadership, and employee relations skills. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
17,166
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#8 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees 2024

University of Louisville

  • Louisville, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $527

Out-of-State | $527

Credits to Graduate: 120

UofL's online bachelor of business administration appeals to students seeking an in-depth curriculum. Core requirements include intensive coverage of accounting, economics, finance, information systems, and statistical analysis. Learners can then use their business and non-business electives to build focused knowledge in areas of personal interest.

Enrollees can also pursue undergraduate certificates in franchise management. The optional four-course path builds expertise for students planning franchising careers. 

Degree-seekers can study from anywhere in the world, thanks to a 100% online, asynchronous delivery model. Certain electives are only available on campus, however.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,174
Out-of-state
$28,520
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,524
Out-of-state
$27,638
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
22,140
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
58% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees 2024

Lamar University

  • Beaumont, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $314

Out-of-State | $314

Credits to Graduate: 120

LU's online BBA in general business emphasizes cross-functional versatility. Students engage with economics, finance, marketing, and management coursework. Built-in training for systems, applications, and products enriches the curriculum, along with classes exploring the intersection of business and public policy.

Learners can also pursue specialized online BBA degrees at LU. Concentrated programs cover entrepreneurship, finance, HR management, information systems and business analytics, management accounting and analytics, marketing, and organizational management.

The general and concentrated programs both allow students to transfer up to 75% of their degree requirements.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,228
Out-of-state
$16,020
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,471
Out-of-state
$13,815
Retention Rate
57%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
16,320
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
88% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees 2024

Campbellsville University

  • Campbellsville, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $424

Out-of-State | $424

Credits to Graduate: 120

CU's online bachelor's in business administration develops advanced managerial and business administration skills while providing diverse specialization opportunities. Students can concentrate their studies in areas like business information technology, cybersecurity and forensics, healthcare management, and marketing. 

Delivered 100% online, the program's asynchronous flexibility makes it a good match for busy learners and working professionals. CU's profile as a leading affordable Christian college reflects its generous aid policies, which include financing options not based on need.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,900
Out-of-state
$24,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,473
Out-of-state
$8,473
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
10,238
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
70% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

How We Chose These Schools

At CollegeChoice, we use reliable data to rank schools based on their academic quality, affordability, and return on investment. When determining a program's value, we consider metrics such as median student debt, graduation rate, and average student earnings after enrolling.

Still curious about how we rank schools? You can learn more about our ranking methodology here.

Why Get an Online Business Degree?

There are a lot of advantages to getting your bachelor's degree in business online.

  • Cost Savings

    In addition to potentially saving money on tuition and fees, going to school online can reduce your commuting and living expenses.
  • Flexible schedule

    Online programs offer a lot more flexibility than traditional programs, with asynchronous learning, self-paced coursework, and continuous access to course materials.
  • Tech Skills

    Online degree programs will help you become familiar with digital tools and platforms that are increasingly important in today's business environment.
  • Location Freedom

    Study from anywhere. No need to live near (or on) a campus.
  • Career Advancement

    Online business degrees give you the opportunity to pursue an education without interrupting your employment, which means you can continue to gain work experience while applying your new skills and knowledge in real time.

Business Degree Specializations

Many online business programs allow you to select a specialization, which can help you develop focused knowledge and skills in a particular field. Some common specializations include:

Accounting

Dive into the nitty-gritty of financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and financial analysis.

Best For:

  • Students interested in becoming certified accountants
  • Financial analysts
  • Auditors, tax specialists
  • Finance managers

Business Administration / Business Management

Learn how best to manage people, organizations, and resources by studying organizational behavior, operations management, human resources, and more.

Best For:

  • Students interested in becoming project managers
  • Operations managers
  • Business consultants
  • Entrepreneurs

Finance

Expand your understanding of financial concepts, risk management, markets, and decision-making.

Best For:

  • Students interested in becoming financial analysts
  • Investment bankers
  • Corporate finance officers
  • Financial planners

Human Resources

Discover what it takes to recruit, hire, train, place, promote, and manage employees – the most important asset of any successful business.

Best For:

  • Students pursuing roles like HR specialist
  • Benefits manager
  • Training and development specialist
  • HR director

International Business

Get a big-picture understanding of international trade, global markets, cross-cultural management, and world economies.

Best For:

  • Students who want to land jobs like global supply chain manager
  • International trade specialist
  • International market research analyst
  • International consultant

Marketing

Study marketing principles, channels, promotion strategies, consumer behavior, and market research so you can build a brand, move consumers, and drive profits.

Best For:


Sales

Learn all about sales strategies, negotiation, customer relationships, and sales analytics.

Best For:

  • Students who want roles like sales manager
  • Account manager
  • Business development manager
  • Sales operations analyst

Featured Online Business Degree Programs

How Much Does a Degree in Business Cost?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average annual tuition and fees for a bachelor's degree from a full-time, public institution was $9,700 in 2021-2022.

For private, for-profit schools, tuition and fees averaged $17,800, and for private, nonprofit schools they averaged $38,800.

What Can I Do With a Business Degree?

A business degree will give you highly transferable knowledge and skills that you can leverage in almost any career path, field, or industry. Check out these five high-earning careers for people with a bachelor's in business.

Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Manager

Develop strategies, promotions, and advertising campaigns to drive profits and generate interest in a product, service, or brand.

Source: BLS
Median Salary (2022): $138,730

Financial Manager

Take control of the financial health of an entire organization -- manage investments, develop budgets, analyze market trends, and supervise employees.

Source: BLS
Median Salary (2022): $139,790

Compensation and Benefits Manager

Develop and manage the wage and benefits structure for your organization and business partners.

Source: BLS
Median Salary (2022): $131,280

Human Resources Manager

Manage the entire life cycle of your organization's employees, from hiring to promotions.

Source: BLS
Median Salary (2022): $130,000

Sales Manager

Develop sales goals, analyze data, and lead sales teams for your organization.

Source: BLS
Median Salary (2022): $130,600
Even more great jobs for folks with an online business degree
Job Median Annual Salary (May 2022) Job Growth Rate (2022-2032)
Accountants and Auditors $78,000 4%
Administrative Services and Facilities Managers $101,870 5%
Financial Analysts $96,220 8%
Human Resources Specialists $64,240 6%
Management Analysts $95,290 10%
Market Research Analysts $68,230 13%
Project Management Specialists $95,370 6%
Public Relations Specialists $67,440 6%
Top Executives $100,090 3%
Source: BLS

Featured Online Business Degree Programs

Frequently Asked Questions About Affordable Online Business Degrees

How do I know if a business degree is right for me?

It's best to get a degree (and pursue a career) in something you already like or are good at. A business degree could be a good fit for you if you are interested in business, are a strong communicator, enjoy problem-solving, and are decent with numbers.

Is getting a business degree online worth it?

Yes, it certainly can be. Payscale reports that the average salary for someone with a bachelor's degree in business is nearly $80,000 a year. An online business degree can open the door to steady jobs with good salaries while providing you with flexibility and cost savings.

What is the easiest business degree to get?

That depends on what comes easily to you. If you're good at math, you may find accounting or finance easiest. If you're naturally creative or persuasive, then marketing or sales might be the most natural. If you're a born leader, then management or administration could feel like a breeze.

What is the lowest-paying business major?

The lowest-paying business degree is the one you don't finish — which is why your first priority should be picking a major you're interested in. Almost any business major can be leveraged into a high-paying job.

That said, the lowest-paid job on our list is human resources specialist, at a median salary of $64,240 a year.

Which degree is best for online business?

If your goal is to make as much money as possible, online business majors like marketing, finance, and international business pull in some of the highest starting salaries.

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