10 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees in Iowa (2025)

Amid the picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities of Iowa, a treasure trove of opportunities awaits those seeking affordable business degrees.

As we delve into the heartland of higher education, we'll unveil the top 10 online programs for those who aim to seize affordable business degrees in Iowa.

In this article, we'll journey through the Hawkeye State's institutions, each offering a unique blend of quality education and cost-effectiveness, making your dream of earning a business degree a reality.

List of Iowa Affordable Business Degrees Online

Unlocking the door to quality education without breaking the bank, these institutions offer some of the most affordable business degrees in Iowa in 2024.

1. Buena Vista University

Buena Vista University offers a versatile bachelor's of degree in business with multiple options. Students benefit from hands-on learning experiences such as internships, practicums, and faculty research.

BVU's program emphasizes career-focused education, offering concentration tracks in high-demand areas like agricultural business, financial decision making, management, marketing, and sports management.

2. Graceland University

Graceland University's C.H. Sandage School of Business, offers a BA in Business Management degree program.

This program encourages students to embrace learning as a lifestyle and provides options for double and triple majors in business disciplines.

Experiential learning opportunities include projects with local businesses, Fortune 500 companies, and global ventures.

3. Iowa State University

Iowa State University's Ivy College of Business offers an Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree-completer program.

It covers essential skills such as project management, conflict resolution, human resources management, supply chain management, finance, global workforce management, sales, and consumer behavior.

Graduates earn a business degree from Iowa State University, a prestigious accredited public institution with AACSB accreditation, signifying high academic standards.

4. Upper Iowa University

Upper Iowa University offers a General Business Associate of Arts degree designed to prepare students for entry-level roles in a tech-driven business landscape. Faculty with practical experience provide expert instruction, while dedicated staff offer continuous support. Graduates gain a well-rounded foundation for business careers and further studies in various disciplines.

5. Briar Cliff University

Briar Cliff University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Finance program that equips students with the skills to plan, manage, and analyze financial aspects in various business settings, banking, and financial planning.

The curriculum covers accounting principles, financial instruments, capital planning, asset and debt management, and more. Students benefit from experienced faculty, internship opportunities, and a flexible program structure to accommodate diverse student profiles.

6. Mount Mercy University

Mount Mercy University's Business (BBA) program blends theory with practical experience, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of business functions and principles.

This program is designed to prepare students for professional roles in the public or private sectors and serves as a solid foundation for graduate studies in business. It emphasizes connecting real-life experiences with in-depth knowledge of business theories and practices.

7. Grand View University

Grand View University offers a BA in Business Administration - Management Concentration that equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for success in the business world.

This major covers contemporary management topics such as knowledge management, organizational behavior, human resources, entrepreneurship, international business, ethics, and project management.

Grand View University aims to prepare students to meet current and future business challenges, providing them with a strong foundation for their careers and aligning their academic focus with their professional goals.

8. Simpson College

Simpson College offers a bachelor's degree program in management information systems designed to equip students with a solid base in business and information management.

The curriculum covers business structures, organizational theory, information analysis, and their interrelationships, all of which are essential for understanding the role of technology in strategic decision-making.

9. St. Ambrose University

St. Ambrose University offers a comprehensive Master of Business Administration (MBA) program designed to prepare students to excel as innovative business leaders.

Students can choose between two concentrations: Leadership or General Business.

With a faculty composed of experienced professionals from various business sectors, the program combines current trends and real-world best practices to develop leadership, project management, and planning skills.

10. University of Iowa

The University of Iowa's Bachelor of Arts in Enterprise Leadership emphasizes entrepreneurial skills, critical thinking, and communication.

This interdisciplinary major develops effective teamwork and cultural awareness, addressing complex issues in various contexts.

Offered jointly by the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the John Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurial Management, the program includes a capstone experience involving real-world applications of professional skills.

How Much Does an Online Business Degree Program Cost?

The cost of an online business degree can fluctuate due to several factors:

1. Program Type and Affordability

• Opting for affordable online bachelor's programs can alleviate college debt.
• Private colleges typically entail higher costs compared to state institutions.

2. In-State vs. Out-of-State Tuition

• In-state public programs tend to be more cost-effective than private options.
• In-state bachelor's degrees averaged $7,745 in the 2019-2020 academic year, while out-of-state degrees amounted to $15,093.

3. Additional Fees for Online Learning

• Online learners might encounter supplementary technology fees.

4. Additional Expenses

• Factoring in living expenses, supplies, and textbooks is crucial.
• Scholarships, grants, and loans can cover all aspects of college expenditure, including living costs.

How To Pay for an Online Business Degree

Securing funding for your online business degree is achievable through these strategies:

1. Federal Pell Grants

• Grants for undergraduates based on need, with no repayment obligations.
• Ensure annual completion of the FAFSA to determine eligibility.

2. Private Scholarships

• Abundant organizations offer specialized scholarships.
• Conduct thorough research, including school websites.
• Early application is key, as scholarships are often limited.

3. Work-Study Programs

• Gain valuable part-time employment while acquiring essential experience.
• Typically offered by colleges.
• Earnings can help cover daily expenses.

4. Employer Tuition Assistance

• Inquire with your employer for potential support.
• Many companies aid employees pursuing relevant degrees.
• Some may even cover the entire cost if it enhances your role.

5. Community Colleges or Online Universities

• Explore these cost-effective alternatives.
• Receive a quality education with the potential to transfer credits to four-year colleges.

Is an Online Business Degree Worth It?

Is investing in an online business degree a valuable endeavor? Let's delve into its potential:

Advantages

• Versatile Career Paths: Many business positions, ranging from engineering to health services, often mandate a bachelor's degree.
• Flexible Learning: Online classes accommodate busy schedules, granting students greater flexibility.
• Cost-Effective: Online programs are frequently more budget-friendly, broadening your educational choices.

Considerations

• Lucrative Prospects: Business careers often boast salaries exceeding the national average.
• Entrepreneurial Empowerment: A business degree equips you with the knowledge and skills to embark on entrepreneurial ventures.

Find an Online Business Degree Program Today

Embark on your journey to success with affordable business degrees in Iowa.

Whether you're pursuing diverse career opportunities, seeking flexibility, or aiming for high earning potential, online programs offer the path to your aspirations. Start your educational adventure today.