Best Online Associate Degrees in Business Administration

Obtaining an associate degree in business administration online is some of the most popular and versatile college program options available.

This degree may be used to launch you into the workforce quickly and potentially with minimal debt, or it may be used as a stepping stone if you plan to continue your education and earn a higher degree.

You can read on for answers to some of the questions you may have about what a business administration degree is good for and about earning your degree online.

Associate Degrees in Business Administration Online

An associate degree in business administration is ideal if you want to complete a business degree in 2 years. When studying for an associate’s degree in business administration online, you’ll likely focus on business fundamentals like accounting, marketing, human resources, management, and business technology.

Most people with this degree take up roles as team leads or become business unit managers. Yet, some of the other entry-level careers you can branch into include becoming a:

• Business Manager
• Auditing Clerk
• Office Support Specialist
• Operations Manager
• Event Planner
• Administrative Assistant
• Purchasing Manager

People who choose an online associate degree in business administration can also advance into a business bachelor’s program to further their career outlook.

Common Online Associate’s Degree in Business Administration Concentrations

Selecting a concentration focusing on an elective area of study will help you customize your education to suit your interests and career needs. Some of the typical online associate’s degrees in business administration concentrations include:

• Customer Service: Students can gain advanced communication skills and broad spectrum knowledge in software applications, accounting, management, and general business operations with this concentration.
• Hospitality Management: Students will learn how to create an inviting guest experience in restaurants and hotels while growing their skills in beverage and food operations, management, and marketing.
• Business: This concentration will help students build skills in management, accounting, and software applications, alongside teaching them how to interpret economic processes and tax information.
• Office Management: Learners can expect to learn how to address customized customer needs alongside studying the various elements of planning and managing events and conferences.
• Entrepreneurship: Students will study advertising, loyalty and frequency programs, and promotional tools while learning how to begin and manage a business from the ground up.

These are only some of the typical online associate’s degree in business administration concentrations you can choose between when starting your degree.

Business Administration Careers and Salaries

Are you wondering what kinds of jobs or careers can I get with an associate degree in business administration or business management?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), we’ve put together a list of some common jobs available with a business administration degree and their annual median salaries.

An associate degree in business can help you qualify for a variety of entry-level business or management positions in private, public, or nonprofit organizations.

Depending on the employer, you may need additional education or work experience to qualify for some of these jobs.

Associate of Business Administration Curriculum & Courses

What courses will I need to take to earn an associate degree in business? The exact courses will vary depending on the school and the program.

If you choose to declare a concentration, that will also impact exactly which courses you take, but there are courses you are likely to take no matter the program.

Some of the subjects you may study if you’ve chosen an online associates degree in business administration include the following:

• Business Law I: Students will examine the ethical aspects, background, and foundation of the US legal system as it relates to business organizations.
• Applied Marketing Strategies: Students will analyze pricing, promotional strategies, product development, and distribution to learn how the marketing mix is used to position products and services for target markets.
• Principles of Finance: Students will learn more about corporate finance by examining organizational financial management to learn the skills required to make decisions about dividends, investments, and financing.
• Financial Accounting: During this course, students will learn the accounting cycle and skills surrounding analyzing financial accounting information and communicating this information to stakeholders.
• Managing and Leading in Business: Students can expect to learn the skills required to be leaders in organizational structures and business ventures.
• Managerial Accounting: You will study accounting and productivity information on the administrative level to understand the financial impact of business decisions.
• Critical Business Skills for Success: Students will learn various important skills to lead and manage organizations successfully.
• People, Planet, and Profit: Learners can expect to learn how to evaluate business operations to determine quality, effectiveness, and efficiency. They will also learn to make operational recommendations to increase the value given to customers, the planet, and organizations.
• Global Dimensions in Business: A student will learn to examine international and domestic business environments alongside the factors influencing market entry and attractiveness.
• Principles of Management: Students will study the fundamental principles of management to understand management in formal organizations.

To learn more about the courses offered for this degree, you can speak with an advisor or visit a university.

Admissions Requirements

Various universities and colleges have unique admission requirements, so it’s ideal to review the admission requirements of all schools that interest you.

Some of the common associate degrees in business administration requirements include:

• Must be a high school graduate
• Must possess a GED if not a high school graduate
• High school or GED transcripts

It can be helpful to speak with a university advisor or refer to a university catalog to learn more.

Accreditation

Before deciding where to study for 2-year business degrees, like an associate degree in business administration, it’s essential to consider those with regional accreditation first.

Universities that obtain regional accreditation are some of the best in the nation because they meet stringent educational standards. To determine if a school has regional accreditation, you can visit CHEA to check its status. Some employers prefer hiring those that have completed their education at a regionally accredited institution.

ACBSP Accreditation

Business administration programs like the online associate degree in business administration receive programmatic accreditation from the reputable Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

The ACBSP is recognized by CHEA and has been successfully accrediting degrees at more than 1,000 campuses domestically and across the globe since 1988. They also work with colleagues across six continents to continuously develop and improve teaching excellence and business program curricula.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Not every student has the funds to complete an associate degree in business administration. Should you be seeking needs-based financial assistance, you could complete the FAFSA or Free Application for Federal Student Aid to obtain funds.

Alternatively, other forms of federal aid include work-study programs, grants, and student loans. Additionally, your state may offer aid opportunities, or you could get a scholarship from a university. You can speak with an admissions counselor to determine if you qualify for school scholarships. If none of these options works, you can try obtaining tuition funding from employers or professional groups.

What is a Business Administration Online Associate Degree?

A business administration online associate degree is a way to learn about theories, strategy, leadership, and business practices.

Since this degree combines marketing, accounting, and legal aspects alongside teaching many valuable skills, it helps prepare graduates for a range of entry-level business careers. Graduates could pursue an AA degree in business administration jobs at domestic and international organizations, corporations, small businesses, and governmental institutions, among others.

Ultimately, an associate degree in business administration is designed to prepare students for business professions or further studies.

Is Business Administration Hard?

Whether or not a degree in business administration is hard will depend on your aptitudes and interest in the course material you’ll need to study.

If you were to do an associate degree in business administration online, you could expect courses like budgeting and forecasting, human resource functions, public speaking, financial accounting, and statistics for decision-making.

You might also have to cover more social courses like diversity, equality, and inclusion in the workplace alongside ethical and legal issues in business professions.

What Can I Do With an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration?

Those who obtain an associate degree in business administration could pursue professional and academic opportunities.

According to the BLS, this field is expected to grow by 7% over the next decade, so you’ll likely be able to explore many opportunities once you graduate. These career opportunities include becoming a marketing assistant, a human resources assistant, an advertising sales agent, an account executive, a customer service representative, and many more.

Can You Get an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration Online?

Yes, it is possible to get an associate degree in business online. You will likely find numerous general business degree programs and business programs with specializations in areas such as computer science, finance, healthcare management, marketing, entrepreneurship, and more.

A benefit to obtaining your degree online is that it allows you to work at your own pace. This can be ideal for those juggling a home life, career, or other responsibilities.

How Much Can You Earn With an Associates Degree in Business Administration Online?

The following are some examples of jobs you could pursue with an Associate in Business Administration and their average salaries, according to the BLS:

• Food Service Managers: $59,440 per year
• Lodging Managers: $59,430 per year
• Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks: $45,560 per year
• Secretaries and Administrative Assistants: $39,680 per year
• General Office Clerks: $37,030 per year

Keep in mind when wondering, “What jobs can I get with an associates degree in business administration” that salaries are dependent upon many factors, including location, experience, and exact position.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Associate Degree in Business Administration Online?

If you are able to take a full course load for a 16-week semester, you can likely complete this program in about 2 years.

If you follow an 8-week semester and stay continuously enrolled year-round, you can finish in less time. This means you can potentially graduate and enter the career field in about half the time it takes someone who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree.

Whether you want to pursue an online business administration degree at the associate or bachelor’s level is dependent on your personal goals and how much time you want to devote to your education.

What’s the Difference Between an Associates Degree in Business Administration vs. Business Management?

These degree program titles are often used interchangeably, but there are some key differences:

It’s helpful to keep in mind that you will likely be able to dig deeper into a particular area through elective courses or by declaring it in your area of concentration.

What’s the Difference Between an AA vs. AS in Business Administration?

Associate of Science (A.S.) and Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree programs are typically designed for students who plan to continue their education by transferring to 4 year institutions to earn bachelor’s degrees.

Whether you choose the A.S. or an A.A. depends on which area of business you plan to pursue.

If you plan to transition directly into the workforce after earning your associate degree, the Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) or Associate of Applied Business (A.A.B.) may be a better fit for you.

What’s the Difference Between a Business Administration Associate Degree vs. Bachelor Degree?

Are you wondering, “Why would I choose an associate in business instead of a bachelor’s in business?” This is a great question! People choose to pursue a business administration online associates degree rather than a bachelor’s degree (or higher) for a number of reasons.

It’s beneficial to think about what you want and what you can afford before choosing your educational path.

Is an Associate in Business Administration Worth It?

Yes, an associate’s in business administration is worth it for many professionals. The business sector is growing and continues to grow. For example, according to the BLS, business occupations are expected to see a 7% increase over the next decade.

With the growth expected to increase job opportunities, someone with an associate’s degree in business administration will likely find work. This degree is worth it for those who want to understand basic business principles and fundamentals. This knowledge will be beneficial across multiple career paths.

Best Online Associates Degree in Business Administration Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer business administration associate degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

American Public University offers an AA in Business Administration. Courses in the program are offered fully online. Up to 45 qualifying credits may be transferred in toward the program’s 60 required credit hours. APU offers monthly start dates, and courses are 8 weeks or 16 weeks long. An example of a potential course in the curriculum is Leading in the Technology Age.

APUS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Bismarck State College offers an AA in Business Administration. The program is available fully online or on campus. It requires the completion of 60 to 61 credit hours, with 21 credit hours in business-related courses. Potential courses include Business in the Legal Environment and Principles of Marketing. Courses follow a regular semester schedule with three start dates offered each year.

Bismarck State College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Cambridge College Global offers an online program for an AS in Business Administration. It offers several concentration options, including Banking, Human Resources, and Social Entrepreneurship Management. The program is fully online and can potentially be finished in just 2 years. There are six sessions offered each year. Courses are conducted in an asynchronous format.

Cambridge College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Campbellsville University seeks to provides its students with a faith-based education that can help them advance in their careers. The school offers an AS in Business Administration. Courses are offered in bi-terms, and there are six course sessions per year. Each course is 8 weeks long. The degree can potentially be earned in 2 years.

Campbellsville University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Colorado Christian University is a faith-based liberal arts institution. The school offers an AS in Business Administration that can be earned completely online. The program is designed with working adults in mind. Courses are 5 weeks long, and students may complete one course at a time. There are several start dates offered throughout the year. An example of a potential course in the program is Introduction to Economics.

Colorado Christian University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Colorado Technical University offers an AS in Business Administration. The program is fully online. Accepted students may take CTU Fast Track exams to earn credits for things they already know. Classes start monthly, and 93 credit hours must be completed to earn the degree. Graduates of the program may pursue a BS in Business Administration through CTU.

Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Columbia College has offered online degree programs for over 20 years. The school offers an AS in Business Administration that can be earned fully online or through evening classes. Courses are 8 weeks long, and there are several start dates offered throughout the year. The curriculum covers topics such as accounting, marketing, statistics, and human resources.

Columbia College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Eastern Florida State College offers an AS in Business Administration with specializations in Human Resources, Marketing, and Management. The program is entirely online, and courses are conducted in 8, 12, or 16 week formats. There are several start dates offered throughout the year. The completion of 60 credit hours is required to graduate.

Eastern Florida State College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

U.S. News & World Report named Florida Tech a Top Tier University. The school offers an AA in Business Administration that can be earned fully online. Courses are asynchronous with weekly assignments. The program requires the completion of 64 credit hours. Potential courses include Global Business Perspectives, Management Information Systems, and Introduction to Macroeconomics.

Florida Institute of Technology is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

TheBestSchools.org named Florida State College at Jacksonville among the best online programs for an associate degree in business administration.

The school offers an AS in Business Administration that can be earned entirely online. The program requires the completion of 60 credit hours. There are three course sessions offered each term. Potential courses include Managerial Accounting and Introduction to Project Management.

Florida State College at Jacksonville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Miami Dade College offers an AS in Business Administration. The program is fully online, and courses are conducted in an asynchronous format. The completion of 60 credit hours is required to graduate, which can potentially be done in 2 years. There are five tracks offered, including Human Resource Management, Marketing, and Small Business Management.

Miami Dade College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Pennsylvania State University’s World Campus offers an AS in Business Administration that can be earned entirely online. Courses are conducted in an asynchronous format with scheduled due dates. They follow a semester schedule, and there are two 6 week sessions during the summer. Potential classes offered include Small Business Management and International Business Operations.

Pennsylvania State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Purdue University’s Global University offers an AAS in Business Administration that can be earned fully online. The completion of 60 credit hours is required to graduate, and each course is 10 weeks long. The program can typically be completed in 2 years of full-time attendance.

Purdue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Reinhardt University offers an Associate in Business Administration. The program is fully online, and courses are conducted in an asynchronous format. The completion of 60 credit hours is required to graduate. Courses are 6 to 7 weeks long, and six start dates are offered each year. An Online Learning Seminar must be completed during the first semester.

Reinhardt University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Saint Leo University offers an AA in Business Administration. Courses may be completed fully online or during evenings and weekends at an education center. The program requires the completion of 60 credit hours and can potentially be finished in just 2 years. Potential courses include Principles of Managerial Accounting and Principles of Microeconomics.

Saint Leo University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Seminole State College of Florida offers an AS in Business Administration with several specializations to choose from. The program is fully online with the option to take on-campus courses. Courses follow a regular semester schedule with start dates in the fall, spring, and summer. The completion of 60 credit hours is required to graduate.

Seminole State College of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Southern New Hampshire University offers an AS in Business Administration. The program is fully online and can potentially be completed in 2 years. Up to 45 qualifying credits may be transferred in toward the program’s 60 required credits. Credit for work experience may also be earned. Courses are conducted in an asynchronous format.

Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, Inc.

Strayer University offers a fully online program for an AA in Business Administration. The school also has learning centers across the southeast for in-person support.

The completion of 20 courses is required to graduate. Each one is 11 weeks long. Potential courses offered include Taking Charge of Your Economic Future and Principles of Finance.

Strayer University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Thomas Edison State University offers an online program for an AS in Business Administration. The program may be completed in a traditional online format or through open online courses offered by the Saylor Foundation.

The completion of 60 credits, including 12 electives, is required to graduate. An example of a potential course offered is Business Law. After the completion of courses, a portfolio or TECEP exam must be completed.

Thomas Edison State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

West Virginia University offers an AA in Business Administration. The program is fully online, and courses are conducted in an asynchronous format. The completion of 20 courses for a total of 60 credit hours is required to graduate. The program offers start dates in the fall, spring, and summer. Potential courses include Business Communication and Elementary Statistical Inference.

West Virginia University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Getting Your Associate in Business Administration Online

Pursuing a business administration associate degree online can be an extremely versatile degree path that can help open many doors.

Whether you want to pursue administration or management, transition directly into the workforce, or continue your education, there is likely a degree program to match your skill level, interests, and goals.

You can start by researching accredited business administration online programs and start your journey toward a rewarding career today.