Best Bachelor's in Business Management Degrees Online

Top Online Business Management Bachelor's Degree Programs

Best Online Bachelor's Degrees in Business Management

Learn.org examined the data to determine which schools have the best online bachelor's degree programs in business management. Rankings are determined using data from the U.S. Department of Education, such as tuition prices, student retention, and graduation rates. We also took into consideration what each school has to offer its online business management students in terms of flexibility, quality of education, and opportunities for students to gain valuable business knowledge and experience, such as study abroad business courses and related internships. The result is this list of the top schools for online bachelor's degrees in business management. If you're looking for a business management degree you can do from home without sacrificing academic quality, this list is the place to start.

1. University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater offers online business bachelor's programs that are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The programs have a tuition rate of $389 per credit hour for all students, which includes the cost of textbook rentals. Students can earn a Bachelor of Business Administration with one of the following concentrations: economics, finance, marketing, general management, safety and risk management, general business, digital marketing and professional sales (marketing). All of the BBA programs include courses in accounting, management and organizational behavior along with a 20-hour community service requirement.

2. University of the Incarnate Word

The University of the Incarnate Word has institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and its online business programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. The online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration program consists of 120 credit hours and have a per-credit tuition fee of $540. Students can choose from concentrations in management, finance, accounting, information systems, project management, social marketing and general business.

3. Indiana State University

Students at Indiana State University can earn one of three business management bachelor's degrees: a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA), a Bachelor of Science in Management (BSM) or a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems (BSMIS). Each program allows students to utilize their electives to focus on specific areas such as business management, marketing and supply chain management. Full-time students taking 12 to 18 credit hours have a tuition rate of $5,828, and $6,775 for more than 18 credit hours. Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and its BSMIS program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

4. University of Alabama at Birmingham

The University of Alabama at Birmingham has an online Bachelor of Science in Management program that consists of 120 credit hours. The program has a tuition rate of $667, regardless of residency, and a general management concentration. The program curriculum includes courses in law, human resources, leadership and organizational behavior. The BS in Management program requires no on-site components and is accredited by the AACSB.

5. East Carolina University

East Carolina University has an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration program with concentrations available in management, operations & supply chain management, management information systems and general business. North Carolina residents have a tuition rate of $166 per credit hour and all other students have a tuition rate of $716 per credit hour. The program consists of at least 120 credit hours and includes courses in economics, marketing, financial management and decision making. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and its business programs are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International.

6. Davenport University

Davenport University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, created the first online learning community in the state, so students can rest assured they're receiving top tier online education. The proof may be in these facts: students can take their major courses as early as freshman year, small class sizes offer one-on-one interaction with faculty, and 95% of alumni are employed in their field within six months of graduation. The university's global campus offers an online Bachelor of Business Administration in Management that has specialty accreditation from the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE). Students can take their education a step further with the opportunity to choose between three specializations: supply chain logistics, risk management and insurance, and global project management.

7. University of Southern Mississippi

The University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, offers an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Management. Online students are taught by the same faculty who teach campus courses and have specifically designed the online courses with the goals of their students in mind. This way, students can be sure they are getting the same quality of education as their on-campus peers. For experience outside the classroom, University of Southern Mississippi students can choose between 20 study abroad options led by department faculty. A notable one for business students is Business and Culture in Asia, a summer trip to Japan where students can immerse themselves in Japanese culture and learn all about Japan's leading industries and capital to understand the modern international market.

8. Cleary University

In Howell, Michigan, Cleary University is a business school with programs taught by dedicated faculty who have extensive business experience. Their online Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Management is part of their Cleary Mind curriculum, a focused curriculum based on creating business graduates with exemplary attributes such as critical thinking, leadership, ethics, entrepreneurship, and communications. Five of the eight semesters have a unique Focus Filter, which is a topic focusing on different business sectors, such as healthcare, globalization, and entertainment, to enhance coursework and provide real-life examples for assignments. This way, students learn practical applications before they've even stepped foot in their career.

9. Concordia University - Saint Paul

The Saint Paul campus of Concordia University in Minnesota has an online Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration program. The road between being a student and becoming a professional can be a tough one, so that's why each student at the university is paired with an alumni mentor through the CSP Member Collective program. Since each mentor and mentee being matched based on similar academic and professional interests, business students are sure to get a mentor that can help prepare them for the business world. Undergraduate business program graduates from Concordia earn the highest salaries in the state, among the state's private school bachelor's degree graduates.

10. Bellevue University

In Bellevue, Nebraska, Bellevue University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Business Leadership and Management program with an accelerated cohort format, perfect for those who wish to focus solely on one class at a time. Bellevue University's online classes are taught by faculty with real-world experience, and class sizes are no larger than 24 students, so professors can give the attention students need. Online students have constant access to virtual tutoring, writing services, and library services.

11. Fort Hays State University

In Hays, Kansas, Fort Hays State University offers an online Bachelor of Business Administration in Management with concentrations in entrepreneurship, human resource management, and operations management. Online students can enjoy small classes taught by expert faculty members with corporate experience who are fully prepared to mentor them. The school's Department of Management offers at least nine scholarships for its students and even more awards of excellence, making the road to a business management degree just a little bit easier.

12. Oral Roberts University

Located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, students in Oral Roberts University's online Bachelor of Science in Management can begin classes as soon as possible thanks to year-round academic terms. Each student is paired with a success coach to guide them on their way right up to graduation. The school's College of Business features faculty with extensive experience as entrepreneurs, company presidents, and international marketing executives. To build experience outside of the virtual classroom, the College of Business partners with the Career Services' Golden Hire Network to bring internship opportunities to students. In the past few years alone, students have found internships with over 35 companies and organizations.

13. Saint Leo University

In Saint Leo, Florida, Saint Leo University was one of the first universities in America with online programs, so students can be sure they're getting a quality online education. The school offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration - Business Management program. Students are taught by expert faculty members and have several opportunities to build practical skills and network. Some of these opportunities include internships with notable companies such as AAA and Home Shopping Network and working on a research paper with faculty members and presenting it at national conferences.

14. Arizona State University

Arizona State University, located in Tempe, offers an online Bachelor of Science in Management. Business faculty are decorated with numerous accolades, are members of the National Academy of Sciences, have published in renowned journals, and have been speakers at national conferences, making for an exceptional group of professors with the experience needed to pass their knowledge to their students. Graduates of the online management program are recruited by high-tech businesses, private and nonprofit organizations, and management consulting firms.

15. University of Massachusetts - Amherst

The University of Massachusetts' campus in Amherst offers an online Bachelor of Business Administration in Management through its Isenberg School of Management. UMass Amherst pairs students with academic advisors who have over a decade of experience advising online students with every aspect of the Isenberg School of Management. Online students can get involved with their future industry through joining professional organizations such as the Academy of Management where they can further learn about the industry and begin networking. When they're ready to put their skills to the test, students can use the Chase Virtual Career Center to find internships, jobs, and learn resume and interview skills.

16. Northern Arizona University

In Flagstaff, Arizona, Northern Arizona University offers online Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Management programs with emphases options in health care, entrepreneurship and business development, and human resource. Both of these online degrees are competency based, meaning there are no set schedules or class times. Students can set deadlines of their own and work at a pace that suits them, so they have ultimate flexibility and can either take their time earning their degree or finish as soon as possible to get started with their career.

17. Immaculata University

In Immaculata, Pennsylvania, Immaculata University has an online Bachelor of Science in Business Management degree program that can be completed in as few as two years, meaning students can begin their careers faster. Online students at Immaculata University can rest assured they are getting the same dedication from faculty as campus students, with guidance from academic advisors and career counselors as well as classes taught by professors with experience in their fields. The versatile program allows students to add a minor or choose electives to customize their program to their career goals.

18. University of Minnesota - Crookston

The next school on our list is the University of Minnesota's campus in Crookston, which offers a Bachelor of Science in Management program online. Students receive one-on-one mentoring with experienced faculty members and use a variety of technical tools for their online education, making them well-prepared for the growing technological demands of the workplace. While online students aren't required to complete an internship like campus students, the university still accommodates them with several internship opportunities - and the school report that within six months of graduation, 93% of students have a job in their field! Graduates of the management program have found employment at 3M, Target, Pfizer, and Best Buy, among other notable companies.

19. Maryville University of Saint Louis

A top-notch online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration is available at Maryville University of Saint Louis. Students at this in Saint Louis, Missouri, school have the privilege of completing a curriculum that is informed by top employers so they are constantly learning the most up-to-date best practices and gaining skills that are in high demand. They can also choose an emphasis, such as accounting, marketing, or organizational leadership, to specialize their education and gain skills suited for their career goals, no matter what they may be.

20. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University's New Hampshire School of Accounting and Secretarial Science was founded in 1932 and is considered to be a leader in business education. The school's amazing Bachelor of Science in Business Administration program comes with 13 concentration options, some of which include project management, human resources management, entrepreneurship, and organizational leadership. Students at this Manchester, NH, school can learn from faculty with extensive experience, have constant access to academic and career advisors, and can connect with thousands of business students and alumni across the nation to form networking and career opportunities.

21. Southwestern Assemblies of God University

In Waxahachie, Texas, Southwestern Assemblies of God University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Business Management. With small class sizes, students can receive the one-on-one attention they deserve. The school's business department requires all students to complete an internship so they can graduate prepared with firsthand experience in the fields they are pursuing.

22. Houghton College

Houghton College in Houghton, New York gives business management students the choice to complete their online Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management either part-time or full-time, with a possibility of earning their degree in just 18 months! Designed for both experienced managers and novice students, the program teaches how to become effective and ethical business leaders with classes that last just eight weeks.

23. Regis University

Regis University, located in Denver, Colorado, offers an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration program with several specialization options, some of which include management, marketing, and international business. The online program is accelerated, with the option of either 5- or 8-week term formats, meaning students can get started in their careers faster than normal. The program has six different start dates, accepts applications on a rolling basis, and has a generous credit transfer policy of up to 84 credits. For those interested, business students can apply four graduate-level courses toward their undergrad studies so they can earn a graduate degree at the same time.

24. Missouri State University - Springfield

The main campus of Missouri State University, located in Springfield, Missouri, offers an online Bachelor of Science in General Business program with an option to specialize in management. The program's faculty not only teach the same curriculum online as they do on campus, they also develop it themselves, ensuring that online education is the same quality as on campus. Additionally, faculty members are experienced in their fields and have connections with professionals, which can help with job placements for students. Experience outside the classroom is one thing, but experience outside of the country can really boost a resume; business students have a plethora of opportunities to study and intern abroad. A notable one includes the Global Experiences Internship Program in Dublin, where students can complete a business-related internship and attend networking events.

25. Florida International University

Located in Miami, Florida International University has 20 years of experience with online education, so you can bet you're getting an online degree from the people who do it best. They offer an online Bachelor of Business Administration in Management programs that provides students with a foundation in many areas of business, including management, finance, marketing, accounting, and more! Online students can stand out on their resumes by joining the Honors College, where they can gain new skills through interdisciplinary courses and experiences. They have the chance to complete a research project closely guided by a faculty member, apply for exclusive internships and jobs, attend lectures by leading scholars, and join the Honors College Alumni Association for networking opportunities.

26. Ohio University - Main Campus

Ohio University's main campus in Athens, Ohio, offers an online Bachelor of Science in Applied Management. Intended as a degree-completion program, this is an excellent option for those who have already earned an associate degree (or have at least 60 college credits) and wish to learn supervisory, accounting, strategic planning, and business strategy skills. To make transferring easier, each online student is assigned an academic advisor who will help them achieve their educational and professional goals by creating a plan together.

27. Old Dominion University

In Norfolk, Virginia, Old Dominion University's online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Management degree is offered as a degree-completion option as well as a full program option. Students who are interested in pursuing a business graduate degree can earn credits while completing this bachelor's degree as well, so they can finish their education faster and get right to work. Online students at Old Dominion University can have one-on-one virtual meetings with their professors and may take courses that are more time-flexible or courses that have regularly scheduled live meetings. They may also take blended courses, with a mix of live meetings and independent study that are designed by professors with the students' learning experience in mind.

28. Trine University-Regional/Non-Traditional Campuses

Trine University is located in Angola, Indiana, however, their online platform offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Management for students looking to build their skills in all core business skills Interested students could also choose to earn a combined BSBA/Master of Business Administration in just four years, saving time and money. More than 40 of their online courses have free textbooks as well. Students have their own academic advisor, receive one-on-one attention from faculty, can access the library and tutors at any time, and can seek support from Career Services, even after graduation.

29. Metropolitan State University

Students seeking an online Bachelor of Science in Management may want to consider the suburb program offered in Saint Paul, Minnesota, at Metropolitan State University. Their College of Management boasts academically qualified faculty members with years of experience in their fields who apply a student-centered approach to their teaching. The college regularly assesses their students on the learning outcomes they've committed to reaching, such as communication skills, ethics, and the ability to solve problems, so they can constantly improve their curriculum and help business students learn the skills needed to become successful in the management field.

30. Siena Heights University

Siena Heights University, located in Adrian, Michigan, has 16 years of experience in providing online education programs. The school's online Bachelor of Business Administration in Management is offered as a degree-completion program, perfect for those who have some college credits and want to finish. Courses last just seven weeks and are taught by faculty with extensive experience. Each student is expected to complete a final project where they act as a CEO and present a case analysis to a real panel of industry professionals, ensuring they graduate with the needed skills and experience.

31. Washington State University

Located in Pullman, Washington State University's online Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration - Management has three application deadlines and corresponding start dates, so students don't have to wait a long time to begin their education. The university's Carson College of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International), which is a testament to the quality of their education since only around 2 percent of business programs worldwide have full program accreditation from by this leading association. Courses are taught by faculty who have published top tier research and give individual attention to every one of their students. For additional skills, students can choose between 2 track options, which are Human Resource Management or Innovation and Change.

32. University of Memphis

In Memphis, Tennessee, the University of Memphis' online platform, known as UofM Global, offers a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management through the Fogelman College of Business and Economics, which is the sole AACSB-accredited business college in the area. Programs at UofM Global are developed and taught by the same faculty who teach campus courses, so the online curriculum is held to the same standard as on-campus. Students are assigned an academic advisor and flexible course formats are available to fit the needs of every online student.

33. Mount Mercy University

In Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Mount Mercy University's online Bachelor of Business Administration in Management is accelerated and can be completed in as few as 18-24 months, perfect for working adults who want to finish their degree as quickly as possible. The program has nine start dates, courses are offered in 5- and 10-week formats, and up to 12 credits earned in the program can be counted towards a graduate degree. Students can customize their degree towards a specific management focus by choosing electives in areas of risk management, employment law, human resources, or organizational psychology.

34. Park University

The next school on our list has more than 25 years of experience with online education and has developed over 650 online courses! The Bachelor of Science in Management offered at Park University in Parkville, Missouri, features interdisciplinary training in areas of finance, operations, marketing, and more in order for students to effectively learn how to manage a business or other organization. Students can choose from over 10 areas of focus to go with their management degree, some of which include:

• Marketing
• Project management
• Professional sales
• Personal financial planning
• Entrepreneurship
• International business

Over 50 online faculty members are certified by the Association of College and University Educators, meaning they have the skills and credentials to prove they know best how to serve their students.

35. Oregon Institute of Technology

The Oregon Institute of Technology in Klamath Falls has an online Bachelor of Science in Business Management program that's perfect for the technology-oriented student with a curriculum that builds technology-focused business skills. With this curriculum, students graduate with the technical know-how that's important for the everchanging world of data-driven markets. During their senior year, students put the skills they've learned to the test through a year-long capstone experience, where they develop a solution to a business problem. This experience culminates in a presentation of their capstone project at the Oregon Tech Project Symposium.

36. Huntington University

Huntington University, located in Huntington, Indiana, has an average student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1 for adult degree classes, so more students can get individualized attention and time with their professors. Their online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration blends business, entrepreneur, and management courses with a liberal arts foundation, taught by professors with real-world experience. The program is designed for adult learners with busy schedules, with 5-week course formats that allow students to focus on one class at a time.

37. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota

In Winona, Minnesota, Saint Mary's University of Minnesota offers a degree completion program for working adults that can be taken either fully online or in a hybrid style. Their Bachelor of Science in Business Administration can be completed in as little as two years and has six start dates for premium flexibility. Courses are taught by professors with experience in their fields and students can transfer up to 86 credits, meaning they'll complete the program faster.

38. LeTourneau University

In Longview, Texas, LeTourneau University's School of Business boasts a unique focus on using business to create solutions along with technology leadership and entrepreneurial thinking. Their online Bachelor of Business Management program allows students to take one course at a time, with faculty who assign business-related projects to teach practical skills. These skills can also be gained outside of class through the school's internship and study abroad programs. The school features an Internships Overseas program, where students can complete an internship across the globe while taking their classes online; interning abroad can be valuable for gaining knowledge of foreign economies and business markets.

39. University of Houston-Downtown

The University of Houston's downtown campus in Texas allows students to complete their degrees online through an interactive experience with courses that match the quality of their on-campus counterparts. Their Bachelor of Business Administration in Management is designed for working adults who have completed core college classes and wish to finish their degree, with flexible and diverse course options. Online students receive the same benefits as campus students and are taught by campus faculty who design the courses that they teach.

40. University of Arizona

The next school on our list is found in Tucson, as the University of Arizona offers an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree through its Eller College of Management. Business students work closely together in a teamwork-driven atmosphere and even collaborate with students from other fields, making for excellent communication and collaboration skills. Through the school's Professional Development Center, students are actively guided through their program and when making career choices. Any student at the University of Arizona can join the year-long McGuire New Venture Development Program, where they can work with students, business leaders, and experts to build a business from the ground up.

41. Temple University

Temple University, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, gives its online students flexibility with the choice to study in the school's traditional 15-week semester format or a dual accelerated 6- or 7-week format, as well as variety between live course sessions and independent work. This way, students can get a classroom experience from their homes as well as complete their work in a timely manner that fits their schedules. The school's online Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Management is ideal for entry-level students as well as working professionals, with courses taught by faculty members who are leaders in their industries. Online students can join the National Society of Leadership and Success, ideal for those looking to improve their leadership skills, which can be valuable for business management professionals. Students in the program are members for life and have access to campus events, scholarships, and exclusive employer recruitment.

42. University of Mary

The next school on the list is in Bismarck, North Dakota, and has over 25 years of experience teaching virtually to students via their online platform! The University of Mary's Bachelor of Science in Business Management program offers online and blended courses for flexibility, and the program can be completed in less than 2 years, depending on transfer credits. Students rave about the competitive curriculum, affordable tuition, and the cohesiveness of pre-requisite and upper-level courses, making for a smooth journey towards advanced management knowledge.

43. Lewis-Clark State College

Lewis-Clark State College, which is based in Lewiston, Idaho, offers online Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Business Management programs that are designed as practitioner degrees for those who have completed a professional-technical program, those who wish to transfer, or those who have gained significant life and work experience. With a student-to-teacher ratio of 12:1 and a positive placement rate of 97% for academic graduates, students at Lewis-Clark State College can be sure they'll have the attention and tools they need to see success.

44. Tiffin University

Located in Tiffin, Ohio, Tiffin University's offer's a top-notch Bachelor of Business Administration in Management program with a concentration in management studies that provides a focused, advanced curriculum to prepare students for leadership positions. Courses are taught by faculty who are working professionals, so their knowledge and experience is consistently brought to the classroom.

45. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Worldwide

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida, has offered distance learning options for more than 25 years. This school offers a unique program options for those seeking business management training though their Bachelor of Science in Technical Management online program. This degree prepares students to become managers who make data-driven decisions in the increasingly technology-focused business world. Interested students can join the 4+1 program and earn a Master of Science in Management while working on their bachelor's.

46. DeSales University

In Center Valley, Pennsylvania, DeSales University's online courses are delivered in both synchronous and asynchronous formats, meaning students can have live class meetings with their professors and peers just like a real classroom, but they can also study and complete assignments independently to fit their schedule. The accelerated Bachelor of Arts in Management is intended for working adults who need a flexible online schedule. The curriculum emphasizes leadership skills, ethics, and values as they pertain to business decision-making.

47. Dallas Baptist University

Dallas Baptist University in Texas values quality of education and individualized attention for their online students; that's why their online classes have an average of 11 students per class and are taught by the same professors who teach campus classes. The school offers an online Bachelor of Business Administration in Management as well as a Bachelor of Business Studies in Management. The BBA program allows students to focus their studies in general management or behavioral management, and the BBS program allows students to earn an accelerated Master of Arts in Management or a Master of Business Administration alongside their undergraduate degree.

48. Lakeland University

In Plymouth, Wisconsin, Lakeland University offers an online Bachelor of Business Administration with more than an emphasis in management. The emphasis was developed in consultation with employers and advisory boards using career development and national market data, so students are gaining in-demand skills in popular business sectors. Those who may be working in the business field and have trouble balancing work and school can design their own experiential learning course through Lakeland University's Student-Designed Cooperative Education. Subject to approval from the school, students can complete a work project that is relevant to their major and receive course credit, making for a truly unique education.

Learn.org's school ranking methodology categorizes and assesses data from schools and other reliable sources, such as the U.S. Department of Education, and weighs the information based on quality, cost, value and other factors critical to students' academic decisions.

Learn.org's school ranking methodology categorizes and assesses data from schools and other reliable sources, such as the U.S. Department of Education, and weighs the information based on quality, cost, value and other factors critical to students' academic decisions.

Online Business Management Degree Overview

Business management degree programs are available online at nearly every level, making it easy to take your education in the field as far as you'd like. Commonalities between all levels include a focus on leading groups and making decisions, as well as teaching necessary business skills that a manager might be responsible for, such as budgeting and creating work schedules. More advanced degree programs tend to dive into more complex areas, like group psychology, or industry-specific information, like healthcare management. The different degree levels are appropriate for different careers as well, with associate's degrees primarily training for low-level management, such as for a single location or small team, while master's or doctorates are usually for executives and academics.

Online Associate Degrees in Business Management

Online associate degree programs in business management are widely available, and they typically have names like Associate of Science in Business Administration, Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration, or Associate of Science in Business Management. These programs take two years to complete at a normal pace, and may have specializations options. Associate degrees in business management teach concepts like basic accounting, management techniques, and leadership skills and are focused on preparing students for entry-level careers in management. Programs at this level also include some general education and elective courses. In most cases, coursework for an associate degree program can be transferred and put towards a bachelor's degree later, should you decide to pursue a higher degree.

Online Bachelor's Degrees in Business Management

Online undergraduate business management programs are typically offered entirely online, but some programs do require students to attend one or more face-to-face components such as a community service experience or program orientation. Online bachelor's degree programs in business management are most commonly offered in the three formats listed below.

• Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA): BBA programs usually consist of a broad overview of business and administration topics, such as finance and marketing, with emphasis placed in the chosen area of concentration. Students develop a firm understanding of administration, the core functions of a business and advanced knowledge of their chosen focus area (such as management).
• Bachelor of Science in Management (BSM): BSM programs give students a broad education in managerial functions, focusing on leadership and problem-solving skills. Students take courses similar to those in BBA programs, but with more focus placed on organizational behaviors, effective leadership methods and managing diverse groups.
• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA): BSBA programs are similar to BBA programs, but emphasize analytical practices and skills. These programs enable students to learn about various business and management topics while taking more specialized courses in their chosen area of concentration, such as economics or accounting.

Most programs are offered through asynchronous coursework, which allows students to work at their convenience as long as their assignments are submitted by the appropriate deadline. Assignments may be due each week, depending on the course, or several times per week. Some courses might require students to complete some synchronous items (such as exams), which require students to log in at specific times.

Online Master's Degrees in Business Management

The standard degree for business management at the master's level is the Master of Business Administration, although other types of degrees, such as Master of Science in Business Management and Leadership or Master of Arts in Management, also exist. Most master's degree programs in business administration are between one and two years in length, depending on accelerated coursework options. To enroll in an online master's program in business management, it's necessary to have a bachelor's degree of some variety, though it need not be in business. MBA programs in business management can have a massive number of possible specialization options, from accounting and business analytics to healthcare and sports management. They also tend to be aimed at established professionals, so some work experience may also be required for certain schools. MS programs in business management tend to be inherently more specialized, and focus on highly specific aspects of management and leadership, like decision-making, data analysis, and communication.

Online Doctoral Degrees in Business Management

Online doctoral degrees in business management come in two main varieties, with a significant distinction between them. The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is an applied doctorate intended for advanced professionals at the executive tiers of business. A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration is an academic and research degree and typically requires a dissertation. Both programs can be found online, although DBAs are slightly more common. The time to complete either program is usually somewhere between three and four years, although the PhD program may take longer, depending on the dissertation.

Both programs teach evidence-based research strategies, although for slightly different aims, with the DBA designed to take these strategies and apply them to the complex business decisions at the highest levels. To be accepted into doctoral programs in business management, it's usually necessary to hold an MBA or other similar master's degree before applying. Doctoral programs may also feature specializations and concentrations, which will shape the type of research involved in the dissertation.

Online Certificates in Business Management

Online certificate programs in business management come in two varieties, depending on your educational level. Undergraduate certificates are brief programs, typically less than a year in duration, designed to introduce the most basic concepts of business and management. Credits from these programs can sometimes be transferred into associate degrees, should you decide to progress further. Graduate certificates are those which focus on more complex, specialized subjects and require completion of a bachelor's degree before being admitted. Graduate certificate credits can also sometimes be transferred into master's degree programs and are a common choice for fulfilling the continuing education requirements of licenses or certifications. These programs can have a variety of different names depending on their exact focus, but will generally be referred to as graduate certificates in business management and take between one and two years to complete.

Specializations and Concentrations

Depending on the program, students may be able to choose an area of concentration within their curriculum, particularly for bachelor's and master's degree programs. Doing so enables them to develop a more specialized understanding and skill set for their area of interest, and become better suited for careers in that field. Common concentrations available in online business management bachelor's degree programs include:

• General Management
• Operations & Supply Chain Management
• Management Information Systems
• General Business
• Economics
• Finance
• Accounting
• Marketing

At higher levels, specialization options may be even more specific, such as healthcare or information technology. These help students to develop a niche and learn about the intricacies of management in the field, like healthcare law and ethics, to better prepare them for more responsibilities and higher positions.

Common Courses in Online Business Management Bachelor's Programs

Online bachelor's in business management programs typically include three types of courses: general education, core business and specialized. General education courses consist of subjects such as composition, math, arts and history, and specialized courses are those that are applicable to the concentration. Many of the core business courses that are included in online business management bachelor's degree programs are discussed below.

• Macroeconomics - This course takes a broad look at the economic market including topics such as international trade, stabilization, inflation, economic growth and supply and demand.
• Microeconomics - Students explore markets and the roles of various consumers, as well as supply, demand, opportunity costs and market structures.
• Business Statistics - Students learn basic statistical methods and applications for business, studying topics such as hypothesis testing, random variables and probability.
• Management Information Systems - This class explores business information systems, data management, electronic business practices and system design.
• Business Law - Students learn about the legal environment of business organizations including product and corporate liabilities, business ethics and worker protections.
• Financial Management - This class teaches students how to effectively use capital resources as well as the different types of equity structures that apply to businesses.
• Organizational Behavior - Within this course, students learn about individual behaviors within organizations as well as effective methods for communication.
• Operations Management - Students review best practices and responsibilities of managers in various operating organizations, including service and manufacturing companies.
• Principles of Marketing - This course explores marketing types, strategies and effects. Students learn strategies for marketing, pricing and distribution.
• Financial Accounting - Students learn how to read and prepare financial statements for companies, as well as how to utilize financial reports in decision making.
• Managerial Accounting - This class builds upon the knowledge developed in financial accounting. It emphasizes making managerial decisions using financial information, budgets and cash flows.

Length of Online Business Management Bachelor's Programs

The standard length of online business management bachelor's programs for full-time students is four years. Most programs include 120 credit hours of coursework that is divided up into eight semesters. However, students may be able to finish sooner through one of three pathways:

Transfer Credits

Students who have completed some college coursework previously can typically have some or all of those courses transferred into their program. For instance, a student who only has 12 credit hours of coursework may still be able to transfer those courses and save themselves an entire semester.

Associate's Degree

Like students with other transfer credits, those who have earned an associate's degree may be able to have some or all of those credits transferred into their new program. A student who is able to transfer in their entire associate's degree can cut their bachelor's degree program in half, finishing in two or fewer years of full-time study.

Accelerated Study

Students whose school allows them to do so may be able to take more courses each semester, enabling them to complete their program sooner. Full-time undergraduate students usually take 12 to 18 credit hours per semester. A student who takes 18 credits per semester can finish their program in three years or less, depending on their summer enrollment (especially if their school offers accelerated classes rather than 16-week classes).

Students interested in taking fewer courses per semester should consult with their schools. Some schools have a specific part-time program (such as a 5-year or 6-year program) while other schools allow students to take courses at their own pace as long as they're completed within a certain time frame (such as 7 or 8 years).

Why Accreditation Matters for Online Business Management Bachelor's Programs

Accreditation shows students and future employers that a school or program has met outcome and quality standards set by an outside organization. Accreditation can apply to institutions as a whole (institutional accreditation) or to specific programs (programmatic accreditation). Institutions can be accredited by one of the dozens of regional and national accrediting bodies (regional accreditation is typically preferable). Institutional accreditation is mandatory for students to qualify for financial aid.

Programmatic accreditation for undergraduate business programs is typically provided by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Although this accreditation isn't typically mandatory for students, it can be extremely beneficial. Not only does it represent a quality business education, but it can also help students increase their appeal to future employers.

Business Management Licensure & Certification

Certification for business managers is usually optional, but it can improve job prospects and result in higher pay. There are also a variety of certifications to choose from which can help students tailor their skills toward specific career goals. The Project Management Institute, for example, offers optional certifications in project management, with the two most prominent being the Certified Associate of Project Management (CAPM) and the Project Management Professional (PMP). CAPM requires a secondary degree or higher, such as a high school diploma or associate's degree, an application, and passing a 150-question exam. PMP certification is a bit tougher, requiring either a bachelor's degree, 3 years experience and 35 hours of dedicated project management training (or CAPM), or a secondary degree, 5 years of experience and 35 hours of project management training (or CAPM). The exams do have fees attached, and obtaining the required education may have costs as well.

Other optional certifications also exist, although they tend to be aimed at increasing a manager's expertise of more specific areas of business. The International Institute of Business Analysis, for example, offers the Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) certification for experienced professionals who want to deepen their knowledge in business analysis. It requires 7500 hours of business analysis experience (of which 3600 must align with the Business Analysis Book of Knowledge (BABOK) curriculum), the completion of 35 credit hours of professional development, and passing the certification exam. This certification can be helpful to managers whose work has a lot of overlap with business analysis, or those who manage analysts.

Similarly, the Association for Supply Chain Management offers the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) credential. This requires either 3 years of business experience, a bachelor's degree, or certain other credentials and passage of the certification exam. Managers who work in logistics will see the most benefit from this credential, but it is entirely optional.

How to Choose an Online Business Management Bachelor's Program

If you're thinking of earning a bachelor's degree in business management online, there are a few factors that you should keep in mind.

Flexibility

You may need a full-time program or a part-time program, so it's essential to ask your school choices which options are available for the programs that you're interested in. If you're interested in accelerating your program to finish in fewer than four years, you'll have to ask your schools if that option is available. Consider the time implications of the flexibility options and consult your advisor to see what programs will work best with your schedule.

Accreditation

Accreditation is an important consideration as it shows that a school and/or program has met specific quality and outcome requirements. Students interested in obtaining financial aid are required to attend an accredited institution.

Programs Offered

The most important consideration in choosing a school is if they offer the right program for you. You may prefer a BS or BBA degree with a specific concentration. Schools don't always offer all the options online, so make sure to ask your school if they do.

Transfer Credits

If you have completed any college coursework previously, look for a school that will accept qualifying transfer credits. This will not only decrease your overall program length but it will also cut down on your degree cost.

Residency Requirements

Although most online business management bachelor's programs do not require students to attend any on-site components, some programs do. These requirements may involve things such as program orientations, networking sessions and community service.

Faculty

Experienced and available faculty can be a major influence on your success in an online program. Faculty that have relevant experience can often provide more insight, and faculty who are readily available are more likely to respond to your inquiries in a timely manner. Ask your school how long faculty usually take to respond to student questions (for example: 2 hours or 2 days).

Cost

Online bachelor's programs in business management can vary significantly in cost, ranging from $20,000 to more than $100,000. Students may have a flat-rate cost per credit or semester that includes tuition and fees, or those costs can be itemized. Cost is important to compare and consider, but keep in mind that there are multiple financial aid options available to online undergraduate business management students.

What Can You Do with an Online Business Management Bachelor's Degree?

Depending on their program concentration and interests, graduates might be qualified to work in a variety of positions. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects all management jobs to grow 7% between 2018 and 2028. The annual median salary of all management occupations in 2018 was $104,240. Several careers applicable to business management graduates are discussed below.

Administrative Services Managers

These managers oversee and direct support services within their organization. Their duties can include maintaining records, ensuring facilities are clean and supervising employees.

Advertising, Promotions and Marketing Managers

Advertising, promotions and marketing managers create interest in their services or products and their duties can include negotiating contracts, developing marketing campaigns and creating pricing strategies.

Compensation and Benefits Managers

Compensation and benefits managers create, revise and implement employee compensation programs. They often create pay structures, choose benefits providers and create program budgets.

Computer and Information Systems Managers

These managers are responsible for the computer-related operations within their organization. They typically review company needs, stay up-to-date with technology trends and oversee employees.

Emergency Management Directors

Emergency management directors create plans for responses to environmental disasters and other emergencies. They assess risks, coordinate emergency training and apply for emergency funding.

Financial Managers

Financial managers create and review financial statements and reports, oversee investments, monitor financial health and look for ways to reduce costs within their organization.

Human Resources Managers

Human resources managers oversee and direct recruitment, training, and other administrative operations. They may also serve as consultants and mediators when applicable.

Industrial Production Managers

Industrial production managers direct the operations of their companies, typically manufacturing or similar plants. They monitor employees, production and machinery for efficiency.

Medical and Health Services Managers

Medical and health services managers oversee departments, practices, programs or facilities that are involved in providing healthcare services.

Sales Managers

Sales managers oversee sales employees and teams, often setting sales objectives and creating programs for employee training. They address complaints, analyze sales data and create budgets.

Job and outlook data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

How to Become a Sales Manager

Sales managers are generally required to hold a bachelor's degree, although there may sometimes be exceptions. A moderate amount of work experience is also necessary, ranging from 1 to 5 years in sales. They are responsible for motivating the salespeople working under them and setting goals each month, including any deals or special offers, and may need to interact with customers from time to time. Sales managers work both in office environments and on the sales floor, aiding their team in dealing with customers, particularly those with complaints. They may also be expected to travel, negotiating with businesses or visiting various stores. Successful sales managers should be persuasive and skilled at communicating, able to lead and motivate their team, and able to quickly analyze data and draw conclusions to aid in decision-making.

Financial Aid for Online Business Management Bachelor's Programs

Students interested in obtaining financial aid for their program should first fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA shows students what types of aid that they may qualify for, and is necessary for most types of aid. The main types of aid available to online business management bachelor's program students are discussed below.

Work-Study

Work-study programs enable students to earn part or all of their program costs by working part-time during their studies. Students should consult with their financial aid office to see if their school participates in the federal work-study program.

Student Loans

Student loans are available through private and government lenders, although private lenders should only be used as a last resort. Government loans are income-based and have interest rates that are set nationally; some loans feature government-paid interest while students are in school.

Loan Forgiveness

Graduates can have their loans forgiven through their employer or the government. Many employers offer loan payoffs for employees as part of sign-on incentives or tenure incentives. Government loan issuers forgive all or part of student loans to individuals who hold qualifying employment for a specific amount of time (such as five years for teachers who meet certain requirements).

Scholarships

There are a multitude of scholarships available to online undergraduate business management students, some of which are discussed below.

INKAS Rising Star Scholarship

Both undergraduate and graduate students who show excellence in a business or engineering field can win a $1,500 scholarship (two awarded). Students must submit a 750-word essay with their application.

CITe Minor Student Tuition Scholarship

Full-time students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher who are majoring in information systems or electronic business can earn a renewable $500 scholarship, available at the junior and senior levels of their program.

Business Leaders of Tomorrow

Students in economics, business or finance programs with a GPA of 3.0 or higher can apply to win a $1,000 scholarship. Students are required to submit a 600-word essay with their application.

Ellen M. Cherry-Delawder Memorial Scholarship

Students enrolled in a business or related program with a GPA of 2.0 or higher can earn this scholarship, which is awarded at various amounts. The award is given to a student with financial need who expresses the benefits of their program through a required essay.

AACE International Competitive Scholarships

These $2,500 scholarships are awarded to students who have at least one year of their program completed and are enrolled full-time. Students must have a 3.0 or higher GPA and be studying a qualifying field (such as business administration).