Introduction to the Best Business Schools
An online business degree provides broad and specialized business knowledge, preparing graduates for many career paths. Bachelor's programs cover fundamental business topics, while MBA programs build more advanced skills.
Applicants to bachelor's programs need a high school or GED diploma. They may also need to submit SAT or ACT scores depending on their age. Applicants to master's programs need a bachelor's degree, though often not in business. Prospective enrollees may also need to submit graduate exam scores, such as the GRE or GMAT.
This page highlights the best online business degrees, including costs and specialization options.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Business Degrees
How long does it take to get a business degree online?
Full-time enrollees can complete a bachelor's degree in four years and an MBA in two years. Learners can explore accelerated business programs to graduate sooner.
How much does it cost to get an online degree?
Tuition rates vary by program and school. According to EducationData.org, an online bachelor's degree cost an average of $51,090 as of August 2021.
Can you obtain a business degree online?
Yes. Students can earn many of the best online business degrees fully online. Some programs include in-person requirements.
Featured Online Business Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Best Online Business Degrees 2022
See our rankings methodology page.
#1 Best Online MBA Programs
Florida State University
- Tallahassee, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Business students from around the country attend Florida State University for the top-ranked online master of business administration. The program prepares learners for higher-level work in the field than a bachelor's degree typically allows. A terminal degree like a doctorate is the next stop for some MBA graduates.
Many learners see the appeal of remote learning, which is a big draw for the school. The flexible program grants students more control over their schedules and makes education easier to fit with other priorities. The university's academic environment is supportive and student-focused, whether enrollees study in person or online.
Degree-seekers interested in pursuing a master’s usually need a bachelor’s in the major or a related field to apply. Acceptance letters go out to about 36% of applicants, but expect some differences across programs. Once accepted, students can explore financial aid options to help pay for tuition, which stands at around $9,684 per year for Florida residents.
Percent Online Enrollment
47%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online MBA Programs
University of Virginia
- Charlottesville, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master's in business analytics at the University of Virginia maintains high ranking among similar online programs. The program prepares learners for high-level career opportunities not always available to those who hold a bachelor’s alone. The degree prepares learners for a terminal degree like a Ph.D.
The school’s online format is a big draw for students who have a lot to accomplish and need adaptability. Degree-seekers may want an advanced degree but have other concerns such as caregiving and employment. This flexible degree supports those endeavors. The school provides academic rigor and flexibility. Learners also receive support from faculty and the community.
The application requirements for this program include a bachelor’s degree and transcripts, but the department can provide more information. The school reports a 24% admission rate, on average. Students can expect to pay around $16,578 per year for tuition if they live in Virginia. Learners can use grants, loans, and scholarships to help fund their education.
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Online MBA Programs
University of Maryland-College Park
- College Park, MD
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Maryland-College Park delivers one of the nation’s top-ranked online programs to students around the country. Learners acquire advanced skills that employers want in middle- to high-level professionals. The master of business administration program lays the foundation for even more advanced education, like a doctorate.
A big draw to this program is the convenient online format that many learners appreciate. Students do not need to sacrifice other important aspects of their lives such as work and family to earn this degree. Enrollees receive personalized learning and faculty support.
Applicants need a bachelor’s to apply to this program. Though some programs post different averages, the school accepts about 44% of all who apply. Popular funding streams for those who qualify include loans and scholarships. The tuition costs Maryland residents about $13,158 per year.
Percent Online Enrollment
19%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#4 Best Online MBA Programs
University of South Florida
- Tampa, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of South Florida provides online learners with highly ranked graduate education they can complete from a distance. Learners with a bachelor's degree in business may find the master of business administration of particular interest. Enrollees complete a rigorous curriculum using a flexible format that accommodates their schedules.
The school’s 23-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio provides personalized learning opportunities. Degree-seekers complete specialized coursework and training focused on advanced theoretical concepts and practices. This degree positions graduates for career advancement and higher-paying positions.
Florida enrollees pay a yearly average of $8,350, while those elsewhere pay $19,048. Grants and scholarships, both from the school and from third parties, can help reduce the degree's cost. Students can also explore financial aid, which about 35% of the school’s enrollees use.
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Online MBA Programs
Louisiana Tech University
- Ruston, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
At Louisiana Tech University, degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate programs. The master of business administration is an excellent choice for bachelor's degree-holders who want to advance their education with a master’s. This program emphasizes rigorous academics and a flexible learning format.
Students enjoy a 22-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio. The biggest attraction is the educational attainment acquired when learners complete a rigorous curriculum delivered by experts. Obtaining this degree is of great benefit to those who want to advance their careers and pursue higher-paying positions.
Tuition costs $6,592 annually for Louisiana residents, and $13,333 for out-of-state learners. The price of tuition is lower if learners qualify for grants and scholarships, which many do at the institution. Another option includes student loans, with about 33% of enrollees using them to finance all or part of their degree.
Percent Online Enrollment
17%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Best Online MBA Programs
Johns Hopkins University
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate degrees at Johns Hopkins University. The flexible MBA offers many of the qualities bachelor's degree-holders need to advance their education in this field. This program successfully combines the rigor of graduate coursework with the flexibility of the online format.
Enrollees benefit from a 6-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that is conducive to personalized learning. The curriculum is steeped in advanced theoretical concepts and practices. This academic preparation is a prerequisite for higher-level careers in business and industry or a doctoral program in some cases.
Paying for college is a top issue. Maryland and out-of-state students can expect to pay $55,350 per year. The financial aid options available to qualifying students include grants and scholarships. About 29% of enrollees take out student loans, so there are plenty of ways to fund this degree.
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#7 Best Online MBA Programs
University of Houston
- Houston, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Houston provides online learners with highly ranked graduate education they can complete from a distance. Learners with a bachelor's degree in business may find the master's in business analytics of particular interest. This program emphasizes rigorous academics and a flexible learning format.
The school’s 23-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio provides personalized learning opportunities. Learners receive strong preparation using a curriculum that emphasizes advanced theoretical concepts and practices. Obtaining this degree prepares graduates for more advanced career opportunities than a bachelor's degree typically allows.
Tuition costs $8,370 annually for Texas residents, and $17,746 for out-of-state students. Financial aid such as grants and scholarships helps many degree-seekers afford their education. About 37% of enrollees use student loans to finance all or part of their degree.
Percent Online Enrollment
43%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Online MBA Programs
Lehigh University
- Bethlehem, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Lehigh University offers an online flex MBA that is a top-ranked program in its class. The degree goes much deeper in training highly skilled workers in the field compared to a bachelor's. If they choose, graduates with a flex MBA can also pursue a doctorate later on.
The school’s online format is a big draw for learners who need flexibility. The program grants students more control over their schedules and makes education easier to fit with other priorities. The school ensures that enrollees receive the personalized attention they need, whether they study in person or online.
The application requirements include a bachelor’s degree, unless the program states otherwise. About 32% of applicants get accepted to this school on average, but prospective students may find that programs have different averages. Learners can expect to pay around $27,000 per year for tuition if they live in Pennsylvania. Degree-seekers can use grants, loans, and scholarships to help fund their education.
Percent Online Enrollment
6%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#9 Best Online MBA Programs
Stevens Institute of Technology
- Hoboken, NJ
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Prospective graduate students who need extra flexibility in their studies should consider Stevens Institute of Technology. From the Hoboken, New Jersey, campus, the school delivers 16 online master's degrees, including a master of business administration. This adaptable program benefits full-time workers and others with scheduling challenges.
A bachelor’s degree or the equivalent in the major, or a related field, is usually required for admission unless otherwise stated. Earning a master of business administration can lead to many benefits, including higher pay and more job opportunities. This credential lays the foundation for a doctorate or other terminal degree.
The school charges New Jersey residents and out-of-state learners $36,680 per year. Education funding options include institutional scholarships and grants. Learners can also pursue opportunities through foundations and other nonprofits. Loans are another way to help pay for part or all of the program's tuition.
Percent Online Enrollment
27%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#10 Best Online MBA Programs
The University of Texas at Dallas
- Richardson, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Texas at Dallas offers online graduate programs that emphasize quality and affordability. The professional MBA program is an excellent choice for degree-holders with a bachelor’s in business who want to advance their careers in this field. This program successfully blends a rigorous curriculum and a flexible online format.
The 25-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio is a big draw for students who want more individualized attention and faculty mentorship opportunities. The biggest attraction is the educational attainment acquired when learners complete a rigorous curriculum delivered by experts. The program prepares graduates with the academic training necessary to succeed in a competitive workforce or a doctoral program.
Texas residents pay $13,874 annually, while the school charges $27,796 for those living out of state. The scholarships and grants available to many degree-seekers help them reduce the price of tuition. Students may also explore financial aid, which about 40% of the school’s enrollees use to pay for their education.
Percent Online Enrollment
19%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Why Get an Online Business Degree?
A business degree builds knowledge in areas such as management, marketing, economics, and finance. Learners can connect with other aspiring business professionals, creating opportunities to network and share ideas. Pursuing the degree online provides the flexibility to continue working and earning a salary.
The best online business degrees give students the skills and connections necessary to succeed in the professional world. Many of these programs run asynchronously, allowing students to complete coursework around their schedules.
How Much Does an Online Business Degree Cost?
Tuition varies by school, degree level, and program length. In general, private colleges charge more than public colleges. Learners at in-state public schools usually pay the most affordable tuition.
In 2018-19, public colleges charged an average annual tuition of $20,600 for a bachelor's degree. Private colleges charged $44,660. These figures include room-and-board fees, which online learners do not incur.
In 2019-20, public colleges charged an average annual tuition of $12,410 for a master's degree. Private colleges charged an annual tuition of $26,600.
Additional Online Student Fees
Online students do not pay for campus housing or meal plans. However, they may pay technology fees, which cover online learning tools and tech support. Online learners should also budget for textbooks and class materials. Some programs charge a graduation fee.
The best online MBA programs may include on-campus components. Online students should plan for travel and lodging expenses.
How Much Do Business Majors Make?
Graduates can explore a variety of business careers in diverse fields. They may work in marketing, sales, finance, or accounting. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, graduates with a business bachelor's degree earn starting salaries between $48,000-$59,000, depending on their field.
Students can boost their salary potential with an advanced degree like an MBA. In 2020, MBA graduates earned an annual median salary of $115,000, a rate higher than most bachelor's degree holders. The best online MBA programs prepare enrollees for high-paying management positions.
Specializations for Business Majors
Many of the best online business degrees offer specializations. Some programs call them concentrations or tracks. Schools may offer specializations at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
MBA candidates can enroll in a program specifically for a certain specialization. Even if a business program does not offer a specialization track, students can often select elective courses that relate to their interest area.
See below for three common business specializations. Keep in mind that not all programs offer these tracks.
Human Resources Management
Human resources specialists focus on the best practices for managing an organization's employees. This specialization builds knowledge of benefits and compensation, mediation practices, and talent acquisition. Graduates can work in HR departments or earn a master's degree and move into HR management.Information Technology Management
Organizations depend on various information technology tools. This specialization gives students the skills to manage IT departments and address technical issues. Students learn how to assess a company's needs and implement new technology. Graduates may work as IT managers or chief technology officers.Marketing
Marketing focuses on understanding consumer behavior and effectively communicating with customers. This specialization teaches enrollees how to create new marketing strategies and evaluate the effectiveness of existing strategies. Courses cover the economic, psychological, and sociological dimensions of marketing strategy. Graduates may work as marketing specialists or marketing managers.
Career and Salary Outlook for Business Majors
A business degree prepares graduates to pursue careers in various fields. Available jobs depend on many factors, such as students' specialization and education level. The best online business degrees also provide career resources that can help students build professional connections before and after graduation.
Read below for three common career paths for business graduates. Earning an advanced degree, such as an MBA, can help learners pursue high-paying positions.
Financial Analysts
These professionals examine financial information to help companies make business decisions. They may evaluate both past and present financial data related to stocks and other investments. Their analyses help organizations determine the best strategies to increase profits. Financial analysts may specialize in areas such as risk analysis, fund management, or portfolio management.Accountants and Auditors
These professionals examine and prepare financial records, such as tax returns and account books. They may examine financial records both for accuracy and compliance with relevant tax regulations. Accountants may also analyze financial data to help companies increase their profits. They often work for companies or private individuals.Budget Analysts
These analysts monitor a company's spending patterns and develop budgets. They may work with managers to determine a company's financial direction. Budget analysts may also prepare annual budget reports and evaluate proposals for budget changes.
Source: BLS