Ranking Affordable Online Business Degrees: Your Guide to Budget-Friendly Options
Reviewed by Angélica S. Gutiérrez, Ph.D.
At BestColleges.com, we understand that pursuing an online business degree can be a significant investment. Our mission is to provide you with accurate, actionable information to help you make informed decisions about your education. We’ve analyzed over 3,700 nonprofit, accredited colleges to rank affordable online business degrees based on cost, student outcomes, and other critical data. This guide aims to help you find the best program that aligns with your budget and career goals.
Why Trust BestColleges
Our Integrity Network comprises seasoned professionals who bring their expertise to various subjects relevant to college students, including admissions, financial aid, and student mental health. We leverage federal data and trusted sources like Peterson’s Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform our rankings.
Key Statistics
3,700+ Nonprofit, accredited colleges analyzed
6,000+ Users connected with programs every month
300+ College and university partners
40+ Expert reviewers
At a Glance: BestColleges’ Top Affordable Online Business Degrees
George Mason University: High financial aid figures help cut down the price of this respected online business program.
University of North Texas: UNT offers the same affordable price to both in-state and out-of-state students.
Penn State: Penn State has a low net price after aid and highly flexible learning options for students.
Pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in business doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Our ranking methodology considers factors like financial aid availability and annual net price to help you find the right program.
Most Affordable Business Degrees Online
1. George Mason University (GMU)
Avg. Undergrad Tuition: $10,092 (In-State), $34,260 (Out-of-State)
Net Price After Aid: ~$19,000
Accreditation: AACSB
GMU’s online business program offers eight concentrations in high-demand fields like information systems and supply chain management. With over 80% of students receiving financial aid, the program becomes significantly more affordable.
Pros:
High-demand concentrations
Generous financial aid
Cons:
High costs for out-of-state students without aid
Some synchronous courses may conflict with work schedules
2. University of North Texas (UNT)
Avg. Undergrad Tuition: $8,404 (In-State), $21,004 (Out-of-State)
Net Price After Aid: ~$15,000
Accreditation: AACSB
UNT charges a flat rate of $330 per credit hour, making it the most affordable option on our list. With 91% of students receiving financial aid, the program is designed to be accessible regardless of your location.
Pros:
Flat tuition rate for all students
Strong internship opportunities
Cons:
Lower graduation rate (60%)
Fewer specialized tracks compared to other programs
3. Penn State
Avg. Undergrad Tuition: $15,400 (In-State), $25,084 (Out-of-State)
Net Price After Aid: ~$24,000
Accreditation: AACSB
Penn State’s online business program offers a high graduation rate of 72% and a variety of specializations, including health services and entrepreneurship. The program is flexible, allowing students to create individualized learning pathways.
Pros:
High graduation rate
Individualized learning options
Cons:
Higher tuition after aid compared to other schools
Major prerequisites required for enrollment
How We Rank Schools
At BestColleges, we believe that a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. Our rankings are based on transparent methodologies that consider various factors, including:
Cost of Attendance: Average tuition and fees for in-state and out-of-state students.
Financial Aid: Percentage of students receiving aid and average net price after grants and scholarships.
Graduation Rates: The percentage of students who complete their degree within a specified timeframe.
Is an Online Business Degree Right for You?
Choosing to pursue an online business degree can be a transformative decision. It offers flexibility, allowing you to balance work and study while gaining valuable skills. However, it’s essential to consider factors beyond cost, such as accreditation, course offerings, and alignment with your career goals.
Key Considerations
Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies like AACSB, ACBSP, or IACBE.
Program Length: Most online business degrees require around 120 credits and typically take four years to complete.
Financial Aid: Explore scholarships and grants to help reduce costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get a business degree fully online?
Yes, many institutions offer fully online business degrees at various levels, including associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
Do business degrees pay well?
Yes, business degrees can lead to lucrative careers, especially in fields like finance, management, and marketing.
What field of business makes the most money?
Fields such as private equity, corporate finance, and tech product management tend to offer the highest salaries.
Which bachelor’s degree is best for business?
The best degree depends on your career interests. Consider what you enjoy and research programs that align with those interests.
Conclusion
Pursuing an online business degree can be a smart investment in your future. With options like George Mason University, the University of North Texas, and Penn State, you can find affordable programs that meet your needs. Remember to consider factors like financial aid, accreditation, and course offerings to ensure you choose the right path for your career goals.
For more resources on business degrees and financial aid options, explore our comprehensive guides and articles. Your journey toward a fulfilling career in business starts here!
