What Is a Business Degree?

Find out what a business degree is and how it can impact your career with the best undergraduate business programs.
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Updated June 15, 2023

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What Type of Business Degree Should You Get?

An undergraduate degree in business provides a generalized knowledge of the business world. From there, you can specialize in areas such as accounting, human resources, and management.

Some popular specializations include public relations, marketing, economics, and management. Of course, these can all be their own separate degrees — the value of a business degree comes from its broad application and flexibility.

An MBA also offers specialization, such as in communication, finance, ethics, and entrepreneurship.

Best Undergraduate Business School Ranking

See our rankings methodology page.

#1 What Is a Business Degree?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

  • Cambridge, MA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

The bachelor's in business analytics program at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, which offers 39 bachelor's degrees, helps degree-seekers reach their goals. A business degree prepares students for careers in diverse fields. After completing a bachelor's degree, graduates also pursue higher degrees to specialize their training.

The bachelor's curriculum includes foundational and advanced courses in business. In addition to major coursework, undergraduates build communication and critical thinking skills in general education courses. Students gain a well-rounded education by declaring a minor or second major.

Student services support incoming degree candidates academically and socially. For example, career counselors connect students with job fairs and internship opportunities.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology at a Glance:

Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts

Type of School: Private

Admission Rate: 7%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $53,450

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $53,450

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$53,450
Out-of-state
$53,450
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$53,450
Out-of-state
$53,450
Retention Rate
99%
Acceptance Rate
7%
Students Enrolled
11,520
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
0% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#2 What Is a Business Degree?

University of California, Berkeley

  • Berkeley, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The undergraduate business program at the University of California, Berkeley, a public institution, earns top marks. From its campus in Berkeley, California, the school offers flexible enrollment options, including online classes. Undergraduates benefit from rigorous academic standards and comprehensive college support services.

Majors complete a bachelor's degree from the program by taking general education and courses. STEM, social science, and humanities classes make up the general education curriculum. Business major courses introduce theoretical and practical approaches to the field, preparing program graduates to enter the workforce or pursue further education.

University of California, Berkeley at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 16%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 107

Undergrad Tuition In State: $11,442

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $41,196

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $19,323

Graduation Rate: 93%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $57,600

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,442
Out-of-state
$41,196
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,442
Out-of-state
$26,544
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
16%
Students Enrolled
43,185
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
5% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#3 What Is a Business Degree?

University of Pennsylvania

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in business analytics degree at the University of Pennsylvania, a private institution, stands out for its academic quality. Degree-seekers enroll in online classes and take in-person courses on the Philadelphia campus. Undergraduates benefit form flexible course options and rigorous academic standards.

The bachelor of science in business analytics program requires general education and major courses that build key knowledge and skills. Courses in math, the humanities, and the natural sciences meet general education requirements. Advanced business courses cover theoretical and practical subjects, training graduates for entry-level careers or further education.

University of Pennsylvania at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 8%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 93

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $51,156

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $51,156

Graduation Rate: 96%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $91,200

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$51,156
Out-of-state
$51,156
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$36,254
Out-of-state
$36,254
Retention Rate
98%
Acceptance Rate
8%
Students Enrolled
26,675
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
6% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#4 What Is a Business Degree?

University of Michigan

  • Ann Arbor, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Michigan offers a total of 129 bachelor's programs, including a bachelor of business administration. With a BBA, students pursue entry-level careers in diverse industries. After completing a bachelor's degree, graduates also continue their education in master's programs.

The bachelor's curriculum trains learners in foundational knowledge and practices. Undergraduates also gain research, writing, and communication skills through general education requirements. Minors and second majors help students balance their skills and demonstrate a well-rounded education.

The school's student services provide support for incoming degree candidates. For example, financial aid counselors work closely with students to identify scholarship and grant opportunities.

University of Michigan at a Glance:

Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 23%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $16,212

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $52,669

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,212
Out-of-state
$52,669
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$23,890
Out-of-state
$48,204
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
23%
Students Enrolled
48,090
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
1% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 What Is a Business Degree?

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

  • Chapel Hill, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The business degree at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a public institution, ranks among the best programs of its kind. The school, located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, offers both in-person and online classes. Undergraduates benefit from flexible program options, rigorous academics, and the school's support services.

The business program incorporates and general education courses in its curriculum. The general education requirements introduce major academic subjects like math, humanities, and the natural sciences. Graduates prepare for the workforce or a further degree by taking advanced courses that cover theoretical and practical topics.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 23%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 62

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,019

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $34,198

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $13,697

Graduation Rate: 91%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $49,900

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,019
Out-of-state
$34,198
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,552
Out-of-state
$28,278
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
23%
Students Enrolled
29,877
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
12% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 What Is a Business Degree?

Cornell University

  • Ithaca, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cornell University offers 97 bachelor's degrees, including its BS in applied economics and management program. The business degree prepares students for a variety of career paths in many different industries. After earning a bachelor's degree, graduates also apply to master's programs to continue their education.

The bachelor's curriculum introduces foundational and advanced principles in business and economics. Undergraduates also take general education courses, which strengthen communication, analytical, and critical thinking skills. Students gain interdisciplinary skills by declaring a minor or second major.

Incoming degree candidates can expect strong college support whether they enroll on campus or online. For example, financial aid counselors work closely with students to identify scholarship and grant opportunities.

Cornell University at a Glance:

Location: Ithaca, New York

Type of School: Private

Admission Rate: 11%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $56,550

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $56,550

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$56,550
Out-of-state
$56,550
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$29,500
Out-of-state
$29,500
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
11%
Students Enrolled
24,027
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
4% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#7 What Is a Business Degree?

The University of Texas at Austin

  • Austin, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Texas at Austin, a public institution, offers a top-ranking business program. From its Austin campus, the school runs in-person and online programs. Undergraduates benefit from flexible enrollment options, rigorous academics, and comprehensive college support services.

Majors earn a bachelor's degree after completing courses in the BBA program along with general education requirements. The general education requirements introduce major academic subjects like math, humanities, and the natural sciences. Advanced business courses cover theoretical and practical subjects, training graduates for entry-level careers or further education.

The University of Texas at Austin at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 32%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 110

Undergrad Tuition In State: $10,824

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $38,326

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $10,686

Graduation Rate: 86%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $52,200

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,824
Out-of-state
$38,326
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,998
Out-of-state
$22,966
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
32%
Students Enrolled
51,090
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
25% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 What Is a Business Degree?

University of Notre Dame

  • Notre Dame, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The business program at the University of Notre Dame, a private institution, stands out for its quality. Degree-seekers choose from in-person classes offered on the Notre Dame campus and online classes. Undergraduates benefit from flexible enrollment options and comprehensive support services.

The undergraduate business program incorporates business and general education courses in its curriculum. The general education requirements introduce major academic subjects like math, humanities, and the natural sciences. Graduates train for entry-level careers or further education by taking upper-division business classes.

University of Notre Dame at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 16%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 74

Undergrad Tuition In State: $55,046

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $55,046

Graduation Rate: 96%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $69,700

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,046
Out-of-state
$55,046
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$54,908
Out-of-state
$54,908
Retention Rate
98%
Acceptance Rate
16%
Students Enrolled
12,683
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
3% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 What Is a Business Degree?

Washington University in St. Louis

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

The bachelor of science in business administration program at Washington University in St. Louis, a private institution, earns top marks. Degree-seekers choose from in-person and online enrollment options at the school, located in St. Louis, Missouri. The school's flexible course options, along with high academic standards, meet the needs of many undergraduates.

Majors earn a bachelor's degree from the program after taking and general education courses. Students gain an understanding of diverse academic fields through the general education curriculum. Within the major, learners take upper-division courses that provide an advanced understanding of business principles, preparing graduates for the job market.

Washington University in St. Louis at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 14%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 7-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 105

Undergrad Tuition In State: $54,250

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $54,250

Graduation Rate: 95%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $63,400

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,250
Out-of-state
$54,250
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$54,250
Out-of-state
$54,250
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
14%
Students Enrolled
16,191
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
6% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 What Is a Business Degree?

Carnegie Mellon University

  • Pittsburgh, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Carnegie Mellon University, a private institution, offers a top-ranking bachelor's in business administration program. Degree-seekers take classes in-person on the Pittsburgh campus and online. Flexible course options, rigorous academics, and comprehensive support services appeal to many undergraduates.

The business administration program incorporates general education and major courses to build in-demand knowledge and skills. Students meet general education requirements by taking classes in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Graduates prepare for the workforce or further education by taking upper-division classes.

Carnegie Mellon University at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 15%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 5-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 133

Undergrad Tuition In State: $55,816

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $55,816

Graduation Rate: 90%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $84,000

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,816
Out-of-state
$55,816
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$45,037
Out-of-state
$45,037
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
15%
Students Enrolled
14,180
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
6% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#11 What Is a Business Degree?

University of Wisconsin Madison

  • Madison, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Wisconsin Madison offers 128 bachelor's degrees, including the top-ranked BBA in human resources program. With a degree in business, students bring the knowledge and skills required for careers in diverse industries. After completing a bachelor's degree, graduates also apply to master's programs to continue their education.

The bachelor's curriculum introduces core topics and methods. In addition to major coursework, undergraduates take general education courses that build writing, communication, and critical thinking skills. Minors and second majors help students balance their skills and demonstrate a well-rounded education.

Student services support incoming degree candidates academically and socially. For example, financial aid counselors recommend scholarships, while academic advisors suggest course options.

University of Wisconsin Madison at a Glance:

Location: Madison, Wisconsin

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 54%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,273

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $36,333

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,273
Out-of-state
$36,333
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,728
Out-of-state
$24,054
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
44,257
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
18% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#12 What Is a Business Degree?

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

  • Champaign, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in management degree at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, a public institution, prioritizes flexibility. From its campus in Champaign, the school offers both in-person and online enrollment options. Flexible course options, rigorous academics, and comprehensive support services appeal to many undergraduates.

The BS in management builds comprehensive skills and knowledge through both general education and major courses. Students meet general education requirements by taking classes in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Graduates train for entry-level careers or further education by taking upper-division classes.

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 59%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 135

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $14,188

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $33,127

Average Amount Aid of Awarded: $15,442

Graduation Rate: 85%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $52,300

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,188
Out-of-state
$33,127
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,997
Out-of-state
$28,404
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
51,605
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#13 What Is a Business Degree?

University of Virginia

  • Charlottesville, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in business degree at the University of Virginia, a public institution, stands out for its academic quality. Degree-seekers choose from in-person and online enrollment options at the school, located in Charlottesville, Virginia. Undergraduates benefit from comprehensive support services, including academic and career advising.

The bachelor of interdisciplinary studies with a concentration in business incorporates business and general education courses in its curriculum. Humanities, math, and natural sciences courses, which make up the general education curriculum, strengthen critical thinking and communication skills. Learners prepare for the workforce or further education by taking advanced business courses that cover theoretical and practical topics.

University of Virginia at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 24%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 51

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 2

Undergrad Tuition In State: $14,970

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $47,833

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $15,914

Graduation Rate: 95%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $56,800

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,970
Out-of-state
$47,833
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,578
Out-of-state
$27,770
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
24%
Students Enrolled
25,012
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#14 What Is a Business Degree?

Ohio State University

  • Columbus, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The business management program, one of 155 bachelor's programs at Ohio State University, offers a flexible route to a college degree. This degree encourages the knowledge and skills required for diverse career paths. A bachelor's degree also prepares graduates for master's and doctoral programs.

The bachelor's curriculum introduces major principles and practices in business management. In addition to major coursework, undergraduates build communication and critical thinking skills in general education courses. Minors and second majors help students balance their skills and demonstrate a well-rounded education.

Incoming degree candidates can expect strong college support whether they enroll on campus or online. For example, financial aid counselors recommend scholarships while academic advisors suggest course options.

Ohio State University at a Glance:

Location: Columbus, Ohio

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 54%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 2

Undergrad Tuition In State: $10,197

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $31,174

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,197
Out-of-state
$31,174
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,560
Out-of-state
$35,144
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
61,391
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
34% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#15 What Is a Business Degree?

Georgia Institute of Technology

  • Atlanta, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The business administration program at Georgia Institute of Technology, a public institution, enrolls degree-seekers with flexible options. Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the school serves students of all backgrounds through on-campus and online courses. Undergraduates benefit from the school's support services, which include academic and career advising.

Majors complete a bachelor's degree from the program by taking general education and courses. Social sciences, STEM, and humanities classes meet the general education graduation requirements. Advanced courses cover theoretical and practical subjects, training graduates for entry-level careers or further education.

Georgia Institute of Technology at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 21%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 39

Undergrad Tuition In State: $10,258

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $31,370

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $11,660

Graduation Rate: 90%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $66,100

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,258
Out-of-state
$31,370
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,064
Out-of-state
$29,140
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
21%
Students Enrolled
36,302
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#16 What Is a Business Degree?

Purdue University

  • West Lafayette, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Purdue University offers a total of 145 bachelor's programs, including a business analytics and information management program. The degree incorporates knowledge and skills that prepare students for many career paths. A bachelor's degree also prepares graduates for master's and doctoral programs.

The bachelor's curriculum trains learners in foundational knowledge and practices. In addition to major coursework, undergraduates take general education classes that strengthen critical thinking skills. Electives, minors, and double majors allow students to explore other academic and professional interests.

Student services support incoming degree candidates academically and socially. For example, financial aid counselors work closely with students to identify scholarship and grant opportunities.

Purdue University at a Glance:

Location: West Lafayette, Indiana

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 60%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,208

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $28,010

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,208
Out-of-state
$28,010
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,208
Out-of-state
$28,010
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
60%
Students Enrolled
45,500
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
22% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#17 What Is a Business Degree?

University of Florida

  • Gainesville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Florida, a public institution, enrolls learners in its top-ranked business administration program. Degree-seekers choose from in-person classes offered on the Gainesville campus and online classes. Undergraduates benefit from rigorous academic standards and comprehensive college support services.

Learners graduate with a bachelor's degree after taking and general education courses in the program. The general education curriculum strengthens communication and critical thinking skills through coursework in diverse academic fields. Advanced courses cover theoretical and practical subjects, training graduates for entry-level careers or further education.

University of Florida at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 37%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 102

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 19

Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,477

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $25,694

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $10,673

Graduation Rate: 88%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $47,700

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,477
Out-of-state
$25,694
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,770
Out-of-state
$27,335
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
37%
Students Enrolled
52,407
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#18 What Is a Business Degree?

Emory University

  • Atlanta, GA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Emory University, a private institution, offers a top-ranking BBA/MSBA program. Degree-seekers take classes in person at the Atlanta campus and online. Undergraduates benefit from the school's support services, which include academic and career advising.

The joint BBA/MSBA program incorporates general education and major courses to build in-demand knowledge and skills. The general education requirements introduce major academic subjects like math, humanities, and the natural sciences. The curriculum covers theoretical and advanced topics, preparing graduates for the workforce or further education.

Emory University at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 16%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 72

Undergrad Tuition In State: $53,070

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $53,070

Graduation Rate: 90%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $65,500

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$53,070
Out-of-state
$53,070
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$42,800
Out-of-state
$42,800
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
16%
Students Enrolled
14,415
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#19 What Is a Business Degree?

University of Southern California

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Southern California enrolls undergraduates in 126 bachelor's programs, including its undergraduate business program. Students pursue many career paths after earning their degree. After earning a bachelor's degree, graduates also apply to master's programs to open up additional career opportunities.

The bachelor's curriculum introduces major principles and practices in business. Undergraduates also gain research, writing, and communication skills through general education requirements. Students can explore other interests by declaring a complementary minor or second major.

Incoming degree candidates can expect strong college support whether they enroll on campus or online. For example, financial aid counselors work with students to determine sources of educational funding such as grants, scholarships, and loans.

University of Southern California at a Glance:

Location: Los Angeles, California

Type of School: Private

Admission Rate: 11%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $57,256

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $57,256

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$57,256
Out-of-state
$57,256
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$46,272
Out-of-state
$46,272
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
11%
Students Enrolled
48,321
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
17% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#20 What Is a Business Degree?

University of Maryland

  • College Park, MD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The international business program at University of Maryland, a public institution, ranks high for academic quality. From its College Park campus, the school runs in-person and online programs. Undergraduates benefit from comprehensive support services, including academic and career advising.

Majors take courses in the bachelor's in international business program and general education classes to earn a bachelor's degree. The general education curriculum includes classes in the humanities, mathematics, and communication. Within the major, learners take upper-division courses that provide an advanced understanding of business, preparing graduates for the job market.

University of Maryland at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 44%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 148

Undergrad Tuition In State: $8,824

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $34,936

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,912

Graduation Rate: 87%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $50,100

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,824
Out-of-state
$34,936
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,158
Out-of-state
$29,250
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
40,743
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
19% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Explore our list of the cheapest online business degrees

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Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

What Can You Do with a Business Degree?

The most common occupations for business majors are accountants, auditors, and general managers. Other options include financial managers and executives.

Business degrees boost management skills in general. Many business majors become managers in their fields. The highest paying jobs for business graduates are in marketing, finance, and sales.

Some business degrees are expensive, and some are cheap. For instance, the cheapest university on this list is New York University, with a net tuition of only $10,068. The most expensive school is Bentley University, at $37,657.

Top traditional schools and online colleges pay close attention to student needs. Flexible schedules and adaptable coursework create learning environments for people around the world. College Choice also ranked the Best Online Business Degrees.

Job Expectations

Job growth rates in business-related fields are ticking upward every year. By 2020, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects job growth rates for the following fields:

The difficulty of a business degree can vary. At UC Berkeley, the business administration graduating class of 2017 had an average GPA of 3.54. In 2013, Stanford's business school grads averaged 3.73 GPA.

Should You Get A Business Degree?

Are you pursuing a career that involves management, administration, or finance? Are you considering a master’s degree in a related field, but have not yet narrowed your options down? Do you want a flexible degree with high chances of immediate employment?

If your answer is "yes," then continue reading.

Business was the most popular major in 2016, according to College Factual. Business degrees remain popular because they are practical and applicable.

A business degree is the Swiss Army Knife of all majors. You will learn math for practical analysis. You will learn interpersonal communication skills. You will learn to assess the strengths and weaknesses of your projects and yourself. You will be a valuable member of a company, or you can be your own boss. For business majors, the world is full of opportunity.

How much money can you make with a Business Degree?

Business majors were the fourth-highest-paid graduates in 2017. This is according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers.

A sampling of the average salaries for some business-related careers gives a good impression of the major. These statistics come from PayScale:

What are the Best Business Schools?

Below you will find the best business schools in the country.

College Choice uses a variety of sources to create this list. These include quality, affordability, value, and reputation.

Quality comes from the school’s retention and graduation rates, faculty strength, and curriculum. We pull these stats from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System.

Reputation takes into account the school’s rankings from other organizations like The Princeton Review.

Value and Affordability factor in the net tuition price of each school. They also estimate the return on investment from getting a degree there.

Satisfaction measures how much students enjoyed their school experience. Was it worth the money? Did they have fun? Would they recommend the program?

These five statistics combined determine the 50 Best Business Schools in the country. Consider these schools in your search for a promising and rewarding career.

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