The best online business administration associate degrees can prepare you for an entry-level role in business. If you don’t want to spend too long in school or have to attend classes in person, online schools offer affordable options to earn an Associate Degree in Business Administration.
Online business administration associate degree programs make it convenient for you to achieve your career goals. Through these programs, you will be equipped with skills in communication, administration, management, and business. Read on to learn about the top schools with online business administration programs and business administration associate degree jobs available to you post-graduation.
Where Can I Get a Business Administration Associate Degree Online?
You can get a business administration associate degree online through a number of institutions. Colleges and universities are now offering a variety of online courses, hybrid programs, and completely online degree programs. There are plenty of online associate degree programs to choose from depending on your interests, including online business administration programs.
What Schools Offer the Best Business Administration Associate Degrees?
- Florida SouthWestern State College
- Massachusetts Bay Community College
- Northern State University
- Pennsylvania State University
- University of Arkansas Grantham
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Business Administration Associate Degree?
The most important admission requirement to a business administration associate degree program is your high school diploma (or equivalent) and official transcripts. Transferring students must also provide official transcripts from previously attended universities or colleges to obtain transfer credit. There are generally fewer requirements for an associate degree than for a bachelor’s degree.
You can learn about the specific admission requirements for any university by checking out their official website online. If you have trouble finding the information you need, remember that admissions advisors are available to answer questions from prospective students.
Online Business Administration Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- GPA of 2.0 or above
- English language proficiency
- SAT or ACT scores
- Personal statement
How to Get a Business Administration Associate Degree Online
To get a business administration degree online, you must complete a number of required credits. This varies by school but is typically around 60 credit hours. Students may also need to maintain a grade point average (GPA) above a certain amount throughout the duration of their study. Some schools also require their Associate Degree in Business Administration students to complete an internship or capstone project in order to graduate.
Business Administration Degree Requirements
- GPA of 2.0 or higher
- Completion of 60 credit hours
- Internship
Best Online Business Administration Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Broward College | Associate of Science in Business Administration | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Florida SouthWestern State College | Associate of Science in Business Administration and Management | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Franklin University | Associate of Science in Business Administration | Higher Learning Commission |
| Lake Michigan College | Associate in Business Administration | Higher Learning Commission |
| Massachusetts Bay Community College | Associate of Science in Business Administration | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Medaille College | Associate of Science in Business Administration | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Pennsylvania State University | Associate of Science in Business Administration | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Reinhardt University | Associate of Business Administration | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Sheridan College | Associate of Applied Science in Business | Higher Learning Commission |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Associate of Science in Business Administration | New England Commission of Higher Education |
Best Schools for Business Administration: Top Online Business Administration Associate Degree Programs
Some schools offer concentration or specialization tracks for prospective students to choose from. The best schools provide financing options, flexible schedules, and technical support for easy online learning. Below are the best schools to study for an online business administration associate degree, and the information you need to make an informed decision.
What Is an Online Business Administration Associate Degree?
An online business administration degree is a business administration degree offered at the associate level in an online format. Many institutions are leaning toward fully online or hybrid programs to encourage students from all backgrounds and situations.
An online associate degree allows you to learn about business administration in a relatively short period of time and offers significant flexibility. These degree programs cover topics in major areas of business like accounting, marketing, economics, leadership, and management. You can expect to complete assignments, quizzes, and other projects through an online learning platform.
Online vs In-Person Business Administration Degrees
Choosing between an online or in-person business administration program is not a decision to take lightly. You must consider your own learning preferences and personal situation. A program type that suits your needs will be much easier to complete and more beneficial for your career growth.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Associate Degree in Business Administration
- Flexible schedules. Most online students opt for online learning in order to study in a flexible way. Programs are available in full-time and part-time formats, hybrid or completely online.
- No commute. You can complete an online degree from the comfort of your home. You don’t have to travel after work for evening classes or switch to a part-time job so you can attend class in the mornings.
- Self-pacing. Online programs are often designed in such a way that you can learn at your own pace. They include video recordings, reading materials, and online discussion forums.
- Self-motivation. Completing an online degree gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your passion for learning and motivation to work toward your professional dreams. Many online students also work full-time and therefore must have strong self-management skills.
- Lower costs. Online education allows you to skip on costs for housing, transportation, books, and some fees.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Associate Degree in Business Administration
- High level of engagement. A classroom environment engages all your senses, and you don’t have to rely on strict self-discipline. You also have more opportunities for team building and networking.
- Structured learning. If you benefit from a structured approach, an on-campus learning model is right for you.
- The classic college experience. On-campus learning gives you the opportunity to have the classic college experience and participate in campus life. It is much easier to feel like part of a community when you’re having regular, meaningful interactions with other students.
- Access to instructors. Instructors of online courses are typically available through email, but that’s a poor substitute for being able to stop by during office hours and have discussions in real time.
- Access to on-campus resources. Many on-campus resources, such as tutoring services, recreation centers, and dedicated study spaces, aren’t available to online students.
What Types of Online Associate Degrees Can You Get in Business Administration?
The types of business administration associate degrees you can get include an Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), or Associate of Applied Sciences (AAS). The type of degree available to you will depend on your program.
Is It Better to Get an Associate of Arts Degree or an Associate of Science Degree in Business Administration?
It is better to get an Associate of Science degree than an Associate of Arts degree because an AS program is more likely to emphasize statistics and other forms of quantitative analysis that are in high demand. That said, every program is different, and you shouldn’t base your decision about which institution to attend on the particular “flavor” of associate degree offered.
How Much Does a Business Administration Associate Degree Cost?
The average full-time off-campus student pays an average of $16,445 for a two-year degree, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. However, an online program may be cheaper than average because it may involve fewer student fees.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Business Administration Associate Degree Online?
It typically takes two years to complete a business administration associate degree online. Some students complete associate degrees in three years with part-time schedules. For some, part of the appeal of online associate degree programs is that they allow students to study at a flexible pace that suits their needs.
Are Online Business Administration Degrees Respected?
Yes, online business administration degrees are as respected as degrees from on-campus programs if they are earned through an accredited program. Accredited online programs undergo a rigorous process to prove that quality education is delivered to students.
Is Business Administration Hard to Learn Online?
No, business administration is not hard to learn online. However, there are particular challenges associated with online learning regardless of the subject matter. Whether you succeed in an online learning format depends heavily on your time management skills and commitment.
Business Administration Bootcamp vs Online Business Administration Associate Degree: Which Is Better?
It can be difficult to choose between the many learning options available, such as degree programs, bootcamps, MOOCs, and certifications. Below, we discuss the pros and cons of participating in a business administration bootcamp and enrolling in an online business administration associate degree program.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Business Administration Associate Degree
- Basics of business. In an online business administration associate degree program, you will learn all the fundamentals of business administration over a period of roughly two years. Simply because of the difference in duration, it can be difficult for a bootcamp to compete with that level of coverage.
- Comprehensive. A degree program addresses a broad range of topics to prepare you for a variety of career paths.
- Job opportunities. Many businesses and organizations still favor applicants with degrees from accredited institutions, creating more job openings for graduates of degree programs.
- Professional networking. Accredited colleges and universities organize career fairs and other networking events to encourage professional development and networking skills for students.
- Variety of instructors. In a degree program, you will learn from a greater number of instructors than you would in a bootcamp. This can be valuable insofar as it exposes you to a multitude of perspectives.
Top 5 Benefits of a Business Administration Bootcamp
- Flexible financing. Bootcamps tend to offer innovative financing options to accommodate a broad range of lifestyles and financial situations. Some possibilities include deferred tuition, employer sponsorships, and income share agreements.
- Career coaching. Most bootcamps provide career coaching. You can expect to get help crafting the perfect resume, writing cover letters, and preparing for job interviews.
- Instructors with real-world experience. Bootcamp instructors often have more varied backgrounds with more real-world, non-academic experience than their counterparts at colleges and universities.
- Practical learning. Bootcamps involve a lot of practical, highly relevant training. Students work on real-life projects and solve real-world problems.
- Short time frame. While associate degree programs may seem quick with their typical time to completion of two years, bootcamps typically only take a few months to under a year to complete.
Why You Should Get a Business Administration Associate Degree Online
You should get a business administration associate degree online to open up better options for your career. A business administration associate degree enables students to hone their skills and get specialized training in business for real-world application.
Online business administration degrees make it possible for students to learn anywhere and make their goals achievable. Online learners demonstrate self-discipline, critical thinking, and leadership skills to potential employers for high-demand careers.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Associate Degree Program in Business Administration?
You will take business coursework and general education courses in an online associate degree program in business administration. The best online business courses teach you business administration as well as topics like international business, business management, and business law. General education courses help students develop foundational skills in areas such as mathematics and communication.
Accounting
The best online accounting courses in colleges focus on principles of accounting, the accounting cycle, and accounting processes in business environments. Most online courses will also introduce students to managerial accounting, financial accounting, cost accounting, federal taxation, and auditing.
Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship courses help students enhance their organizational skills and develop management skills. Students learn about leadership styles, planning techniques, and the basics of entrepreneurship.
Project Management
Project management skills are now in high demand in the business industry. Employers prefer to hire graduates with knowledge of project management tools and techniques. Project management courses cover various project management approaches and best practices.
Economics
Depending on the curriculum, you may take courses in economics, microeconomics, macroeconomics, or business economics. These courses help students understand how money works and how economies function at different scales.
Marketing
In a business administration associate degree program, you will likely take one or more marketing or advertising courses. These introduce you to marketing strategies, marketing mix, and marketing research. You’ll learn about consumer markets, advertising, sales tactics, and more.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Business Administration Associates Degree Graduates
The most common continuing education path to pursue after earning a business administration associate degree is a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. There are also related bachelor-level programs in fields such as accounting, finance, and marketing.
Related Online Business Administration Degrees
[query_class_embed] *subject-bachelors-degrees
What to Look For in the Best Business Administration Associate Degree Programs
If you are wondering how to assess which programs and schools are the best to study an Associate Degree in Business Administration, then this section is for you. Below are some key aspects that you should pay close attention to in order to make an informed decision about the best program for you.
Accreditation
The most important element in selecting a business administration degree program is to ensure it is being offered by an accredited institution. This ensures the quality of your education and the value of your degree.
Transfer to Baccalaureate Program
Many associate degree holders opt to transfer to a bachelor’s degree program. If you’re considering this path, check that your courses will transfer to the institutions you have in mind to pursue such a degree.
Flexible Schedules
The most important benefit that students should look for in an online program is scheduling flexibility. Students want to choose an associate degree that will accommodate their jobs and other commitments.
Cost
If possible, avoid taking on excessive debt to complete an associate degree program. Don’t neglect to check the cost of tuition, and remember that many public colleges and universities offer discounted tuition rates to in-state students. Sometimes this applies to out-of-state online students as well.
Specialization
You might be looking for a program that offers specific tracks that match your career goals. Students look for an associate degree that not only provides them with the foundations but also familiarizes them with the area of business that they’re most interested in.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Business Administration Associate Degree?
Florida SouthWestern State College is the most affordable online business administration associate degree for in-state students. It costs less than $100 per credit. It is a great value for your money because the program also offers specialization tracks in three different areas of business.
Can I Get a Business Administration Associate Degree Online for Free?
While these programs are generally quite affordable, there are no free associate degrees. They all have tuition costs as well as other required expenses. You can find free business administration courses on online learning resources such as Udemy and Coursera to help you develop basic skills and business acumen.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Business Administration Associate Degree Graduates
Earning a business administration associate degree can have a major impact on your lifetime earnings. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the weekly earnings of associate degree holders are better than those of high school graduates with no college degree.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Business Administration Associate Degree?
It is relatively easy to get a job with a business administration associate degree because in this program you will learn a comprehensive skill set that works in a variety of fields. Business administration skills are also in high demand thanks to their broad applicability.
What’s the Average Online Business Administration Associate Degree Salary?
According to PayScale, the average salary of professionals with a business administration associate degree is $52,000. Office support specialists earn $34,446 per year on average. By contrast, operations managers are paid an average annual salary of $78,827.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Business Administration Associate Degree?
The types of jobs you can get with an online business administration associate degree include sales manager, property manager, and logistician. You can also become an advertising sales agent or an accounting clerk. With an Associate Degree in Business Administration, you can work in a wide range of industries.
Business Administration Degree Jobs
- Sales manager
- Logistician
- Property manager
- Advertising sales agent
- Accounting clerk
Potential Careers With an Online Business Administration Degree
[query_class_embed] how-to-become-a-*profession
How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Business Administration Associate Degree?
You can make from over $30,000 to over $120,000 with an online business administration associate degree. An online Associate Degree in Business Administration opens many different opportunities, so the pay can vary considerably. Your earnings depend on the career path you pursue.
Highest-Paying Online Business Administration Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Business Administration Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Sales Manager | $127,490 |
| Logistician | $77,030 |
| Property Manager | $59,230 |
| Advertising Sales Agent | $52,340 |
| Accounting Clerk | $45,560 |
Best Jobs for Online Business Administration Associate Degree Grads
What follows are some of the best jobs for graduates of a business administration associate degree program. You can get a sense of them from their descriptions, including some idea of the prospects associated with each.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
[query_class_embed] jobs-for-*subject-majors
Is an Online Business Administration Associate Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online business administration associate degree is worth it. It allows you to pursue entry-level business jobs in operations, sales, marketing, and management.
The ultimate goal of these associate degree programs is to equip students with the foundational knowledge and professional skills needed to land jobs and succeed in their careers. Investing your time and efforts in earning an associate degree will give you the confidence and abilities to find the best career opportunities.
Additional Reading About Business Administration
[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/business-administration-associate-degrees/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/business-administration/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/business-administration-masters-degrees/
Online Business Administration Associate Degree FAQ
By completing a business administration associate degree you can apply to entry-level business positions. You can also pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration.
No, business administration is not hard, but it requires hard work. As in any other degree program, you have to put in the work to get good results.
In business administration, you will do math related to accounting, finance, and economics. The courses that you take will involve mathematical topics like algebra, geometry, and calculus.
You will qualify for entry-level jobs with an Associate in Business Administration degree. Graduates gain the business skills and knowledge to perform tasks to assist in business management, accounting, finance, human resources, and other fields.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
