Best Online Business Administration Degrees of 2025

Business administration remains one of the most practical and in-demand fields, and online programs make it easier than ever to earn your degree on your schedule.

Online business administration degrees give you the option to specialize in different areas, from marketing to supply chain management. Some also offer hands-on experiences, like internships or capstone projects, that let gain real-world experience to help you stand out in a competitive job market.

In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the best online business administration programs out there base on affordability, flexibility and return on investment.

According to our 2024 Online Education Education Trends Report:

When comparing business administration programs, it’s important to consider factors such as their cost, length, and accreditation status. Return on investment is also key, so make sure to choose an affordable program from an accredited institution with a curriculum that is relevant to your career goals.

Dr. Angélica S. Gutiérrez, an associate professor of management at Loyola Marymount University, adds that programs often offer different areas of expertise, so “the first step is for the prospective applicant to identify the areas in which they would like to hone their skills.”

The cost of an online bachelor’s degree in business administration can vary significantly across schools. However, keep in mind that private nonprofit institutions usually cost more compared to public universities, and part-time programs typically cost less than full-time programs.

You might be able to transfer credits from previous college experience to cut down on the total cost of your degree.

Financial aid can also help you cut down on college costs, so make sure to fill out the FAFSA. Also, contact your school’s financial aid office to learn more about institution-level scholarships and grants.

A business administration bachelor’s degree typically takes four years to complete, as it usually includes general education requirements, business core classes, and additional electives.

Some online business administration programs are offered in an accelerated format, which can be completed in two years or less. These programs usually confer the same degree as their traditional counterparts, but they cut down the time it takes to graduate by offering intensive classes over a shorter period of time.

Transferring credits from a previous college experience can also help you reduce the time it takes to get your degree.

Enrolling in an accredited business administration program is a great way to make sure you’re getting a high-quality education.

Colleges usually hold institutional accreditation, but business schools can also hold program-specific accreditation from third-party accreditors. These organizations that evaluate factors such as student outcomes, faculty expertise, and curricula to make sure that students are getting good value out of their degrees.

Here are some of the larger business-specific accreditation bodies you should look for when comparing programs:

A business administration degree opens up job opportunities across a wide range of industries. However, the job you ultimately land depends on your specialization within the field of business administration.

For instance, you could end up working in marketing, tech, finance, or general business. Also, a number of programs now offer even more specialized classes, focusing on areas like cybersecurity and AI.

Check out the list below for of the most common roles you can qualify for with a business administration degree:

An online bachelor of business administration degree can help you land a job with a high salary. For example, 2023 business administration graduates from the University of Michigan Ross School of Business made a median base salary of $100,000.

While that’s just one example from a top-tier institution, a business administration degree can land you a job in a number of high-paying fields. You can specialize in areas like cybersecurity, information technology, or analytics to meet employer needs and earn a quality return on your investment.

A master of business administration degree (MBA) has long been the gold standard in graduate business administration. That degree, coupled with work experience, can boost your earnings and career prospects with its leadership-focused curriculum.

But an MBA isn’t your only option for continuing your education. You might also pursue a master’s in management degree, which is geared toward younger professionals. Specialized master’s degrees are also popular options for early-career professionals. A master’s in business analytics, accounting, or finance can help you stand out in the job market.

A number of schools are also rolling out even further specialized master’s degrees in AI or fintech.