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The 15 Best Online Associates in Business Administration Degrees

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The popularity of online associates in business administration degrees is on the rise for good reasons! Business degrees are versatile degrees with a wide range of career opportunities possible, from manufacturing to healthcare.

Indeed, there is always a place for business administration graduates in contemporary society because of their valuable know-how.

Quick audio summary:

Online Associates in Business Administration - fact

According to year-on-year National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) surveys for employer preference, eight out of 10 majors are in the field of business. These include business management and administration, as well as their specializations like marketing, sales, and human resources.

Employers also acknowledge the value of an associate degree in business is in creating a solid foundation of business skills and knowledge. 


Quick Summarization:

Earning a college degree becomes easier, faster, and more convenient with an online associate degree in business. With numerous reputable online business programs, you will find one that will fit your current needs and future aspirations.

The trick is in determining your online learning needs and career goals, performing a thorough school search, and finding your best match.

The bottom line: Establish a solid footing in higher education via an online associate degree in business! With your business administration degree, you are in an excellent position to take advantage of the sustained demand for business professionals. 


studying associates in business administration online concept

Methodology

An online Associate in Business Administration program is arguably one of today’s popularly preferred degrees, and for all the right reasons! Business Administration undergraduates–associate degree holders included–get access to employment opportunities across all industries and gain the competence to qualify for various positions.

And as the business landscape evolves, it makes sense to opt for education and training that meets academic standards toward a bachelor’s program, and shapes you into a competent professional!

We assist you in making a sound choice with our list of the Best Online Associates in Business Administration Degrees! Our top picks are colleges and programs that excel in these respects:

  • 100% online or partial delivery of Business Administration coursework, allowing students to schedule their classes and complete the degree on their own terms,
  • An online Business Administration associate-level curriculum that emphasizes the latest theories and applications and business practices that prepare students for the next educational step at the bachelor’s level, or shape them into competent or skilled professionals,
  • Transfer programs with partner schools for associate degree holders’ easy transition to four-year college programs,
  • A panel of seasoned Business Administration instructors,
  • An extensive array of financial aid and tuition discount programs to accommodate online Business Administration students who need assistance in funding their education,
  • Well-regarded in academic communities, and among students and alumni,
  • Proper accreditation status, with acknowledgment from academic authorities focusing on business or business administration programs.

Please read our Methodology page to learn about our selection process.


15 Best Online Associates in Business Administration Degree Programs

University of Wisconsin Platteville

University of Wisconsin Platteville

Individuals with a high school diploma are welcome to apply to UW’s prestigious online Associate of Science in Business Administration program! Students gain technical and transferable skills in business administration in the course of earning the associate degree.  

The online associate degree program consists of general education courses and business courses for a total of 60 credits. Financial and management accounting, economics, supply chain management, and business communication are discussed in depth. With English, math, and liberal arts courses, students are assured of a well-rounded degree in business administration. 

Prospective students (under 22 years old) to the associate degree program must also present standardized test scores. Financial aid is available to online associate degree students, too, including institutional scholarships. 


University of Massachusetts Lowell

University of Massachusetts Lowell

The online Associate of Science – Business Administration program has a comprehensive curriculum that covers the fundamentals of contemporary business principles and practices. Students learn about day-to-day operations including sales and marketing, accounting, and human resource management. 

This is an affordable associate degree in business program with a part-time option. Students earn 62 credits in courses like business law, economics, financial and managerial accounting, and personal finance. All credits in the associate degree in business administration can be transferred to the bachelor’s degree program. 

Experienced faculty members lead the business administration degree program, meaning students earn an associate degree grounded in quality education. The associate degree program accepts students with only a high school diploma and provides extensive student support services. 


Purdue University Global

Purdue Global University

Graduates of Purdue’s Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration program were gainfully employed just 18 months after graduation. Purdue’s Krannert School of Management is among the country’s best business schools and its business programs have Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) approval. 

Students are well-advised to put in 15-18 hours of study time per week. The 60-semester credit business administration online program emphasizes effective and efficient business operations through the application of management techniques. 

Students may also choose a specialization within the associates degree in business administration program. Small business management and retail management are among the choices. 

The 2-year associate in business administration degree program opens career opportunities in retail management, customer service, and other occupations. Applicants to the business administration associate degree program can gain college credit as working professionals. 

Federal financial aid is available to military personnel and other students. International students may also apply for a 25% tuition reduction in the associate degree program. Purdue also offers an online associate degree in criminal justice.


Southern New Hampshire University

University of New Hampshire

SNHU’s 60-credit Associate of Science in Business Administration program allows for up to 45 transfer credits from prior coursework. Getting into a prestigious associate degree in business program is easier, too – SNHU doesn’t require standardized test scores and application fees. Courses have six- to eight-week terms. 

Students develop their know-how in human resources management, managerial accounting, and business law while in the online associate’s degree in business administration program. Many are already working professionals but need an associate degree to boost their careers. On top of acquiring technical skills, students also learn business skills like record keeping, customer relations, and procurement, meaning their associate degree has both front and back door applications. 

Credits earned from the business administration associate degree can be transferred to a bachelor’s degree at SNHU and other institutions, too. Students in the associate degree program have several financial aid options including federal and institutional aid to choose from. 


Colorado Technical University

Colorado Technical University

CTU’s Associate of Science in Business Administration program consists of a 93-credit curriculum with 57-credit general education courses and 36-credit business core courses. Students with an associate degree in business administration gain a comprehensive understanding of the various aspects of operations in businesses. 

Students also complete a capstone course to earn the associate degree. Graduates with the associate degree have completed the first two years of CTU’s Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree program. 

Students can earn college credit for prior coursework, work experience, and CTU Fast Track courses passed. Financial aid is available to eligible students including active military personnel. CTU also has grants and scholarships and accepts employer tuition reimbursements with trusted partner programs.


Davenport University

Davenport University

Davenport’s Associate of Business Administration program has a 61-credit curriculum with courses in economics, business research, accounting, marketing and management foundations, and business law. Students also have a generous leeway in customizing their associate degree in business by choosing from four business disciplines. 

Students gain hands-on learning experiences in their two-year online associate degree program in business administration through internships. Their online business education prepares them for diverse jobs as assembly supervisors, shift managers, and retail managers. Many students use their online associate degree as a stepping stone to advanced degrees including a bachelor’s degree and then a master’s degree. 

Davenport’s degree in business administration program encourages critical thinking and creative approaches to problem-solving situations. Business core courses cover the fundamentals of business including marketing, accounting, and law in the domestic and international environment. 


Reinhardt University

Reinhardt University

The Associate of Business Administration degree program at Reinhardt appeals to working professionals in their mid-career transitions. Students establish a strong foundation in business administration principles including organizational leadership in their workplaces. But traditional students are also welcome, and all students benefit from the mix of intensive general education courses and business core classes. 

The completely online associate degree in business program has a 60-credit curriculum and can be completed in five semesters with transfer credits. Up to 30 credit hours from prior coursework can be transferred. Students who want to earn a business administration associate degree faster can take up to 12 credit hours per semester. 

The degree in business administration program emphasizes both business-related technical skills and soft skills like communication, collaboration, and critical thinking skills. New students can apply to the business administration online program every eight weeks. 

Reinhardt is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges and Schools Commission (SACSCOC).


Seminole State College of Florida

Seminole State College of Florida

Students in the Associate in Science – Business Administration program can choose from six specializations, thus, expanding their job opportunities. Seminole State is an excellent place to earn an associate degree in business because of its affordable tuition, small class sizes, and quality online education. 

The 60 credits earned from completion of the online associate degree can be seamlessly transferred to a bachelor’s degree program at Seminole State and the University of Central Florida. Courses include financial and managerial accounting with the option for QuickBooks training, introduction to management, and human resources. 

Earning a business administration associate degree doesn’t have to lead to overwhelming student debt, thanks to various financial aid options. And with a respected degree in business administration, it’s easy enough to recoup the cost of your education! 

Seminole State is accredited by SACSCOC.


Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University

The online Associate of Arts – Business Administration program equips students with business skills in human resources, accounting, sales and marketing, and management. Graduates with the business administration associate degree have earned 60 credits with courses in managerial accounting, financial accounting, and economics. With Saint Leo’s prestigious reputation, the online associate degree is sought after, too. 

The best thing about the business administration online program is the excellent professional development opportunities. Students can participate in international business conferences, join professional organizations, and put their degree in business administration to the test through the annual business plan competition. Internships are also available in the online associate program. 


Cambridge College Global

Cambridge College Global

Many working professionals find this Associate of Science in Business Administration program as the answer to their prayers for an affordable, convenient, and quality online associate degree. Aside from business core courses in financial statements, accounting information systems, and human resources, the associate degree program develops the students’ critical thinking, decision-making, and research skills. 

CCG’s online associate degree program has graduates working in diverse fields including commercial banking, financial markets, and administration support. Acceptance into the online associate program is made easier through the services of an admission representative.


Genesee Community College

SUNY Genesee Community College

The Associate in Science (A.S.) in Business Administration degree offered at Genesee Community College prepares you for success in today’s competitive global business environment. In addition to providing solid communication and planning skills, the curriculum opens the door to streamlined transfer opportunities. With an AS degree from GCC, you can earn your Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree in Business Administration at a cost-effective rate. This is the best education to start your way up until you finish higher education. 

The business management program prepares students for careers in business administration by providing foundational and advanced knowledge. Credit earned can be applied toward a bachelor’s degree, a certificate, or an educational credential. While studying for a degree, online students can access career services, academic advising, and various other support options. There are also academic tutoring services and virtual libraries available to distance learners. Financial aid is available for students, with 90% of the total enrollees receiving them. 


West Kentucky Community and Technical College

West Kentucky Community and Technical College

The WKCTC or West Kentucky Community and Technical College online Associate of Applied Acience in Business Administration features a rigorous coursework and experiential learning opportunities. The credits earned by students can be applied to a bachelor’s degree or other educational pursuits after they complete the program.

They prepare you for the rapidly changing business environment of today. You will be prepared for entry-level management, marketing, economics, and accounting positions by taking management, marketing, economics, and accounting courses. They offer live, accelerated, and online classes in a wide range of topics, including small business management, leadership, and global markets, to meet the needs of all students, including those who wish to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business administration at a four-year institution. 

Career services, academic advising, and other success-oriented resources are available to business management students at the college. Tutoring and virtual libraries are also available to distance learners. You can seek the institution for their financial aid options available. 


Penn State World Campus

Pennsylvania State University-World Campus

An online Associate of Business Administration degree is one of =Penn State World Campus’ popular program offerings. Several careers can be pursued through this program. Learning how to think critically, communicate effectively, and have broad business knowledge are some key goals of this associate program. This program requires 60 credits for completion. 

As a business professional, you can learn fundamentals in accounting, management, marketing, information systems, and economics through an Associate of Science in Business Administration degree. In addition to developing critical thinking and communication skills necessary for business success, this degree can be a critical initial step in joining the workforce.

Furthermore, you need a degree that is well-regarded by your peers and respected by your employer. Fortunately, Penn State is well-renowned for its quality of education. As a leader in online education, Penn State has 100 years of experience in distance education. 


College of Lake County

College of Lake County 

College of Lake County is another learning institution offering an online Associate of Arts in Business Administration. This is the best program for students planning on pursuing a bachelor’s program at a four-year institution. It’s also ideal for individuals preparing for entry-level management or supervisory positions or to start their own business.

Skills development is a particular business specialty area is possible through the program’s certificate options. You can learn the curriculum online or through face-to-face classes in this program.

Keep active in your learning when it’s convenient for you by completing coursework online on your own time. Some professors are graduates of the nation’s top business schools. Several Fortune 500 companies have also hired them.

The applied theory is combined with real-world applications in CLC’s business program. Students become adept in problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and leadership.

The classes come in small sizes so that you can expect higher quality and more interaction. Whether you prefer to study morning or evening, their associate program offers you more schedule options. 


Florida State College at Jacksonville

Florida State College Jacksonville

The Associate in Science (A.S.) in Business Administration offered at Florida State College at Jacksonville equips students for the pursuit of their desired career.

While some students use this education to launch their business career immediately, some AS in Business Administration program graduates pursue a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and other related majors like Finance, Economics, and Supervision and Management.

Among the best online associate of business administration degree programs nationwide, FSCJ’s business administration associate degree has been recognized as a top program. You must complete the total credit hours, which is 60, to graduate from the program.

Students who wish to obtain an Associate in Science or Applied Science degree and become employed should pursue these degree programs.

professional doing business administrative work

Which Is the Better Choice: Business Management or Business Administration? 

Both business administration and business management programs introduce students to the fundamentals of business, but their focus areas are different. Both require higher education, too, with a combination of general education and business core courses. 

If you are interested in day-to-day operations, then a business administration program is the best fit. With a business administration degree, you will start by studying broad business concepts before choosing a specialization. Your specialization should ideally fit your personality, skills, and know-how, and interests in business. 

If you’re more interested in long-term management, then go for an associate degree in business management. You will gain a broader understanding of business management, meaning you’re less likely to concentrate on specifics or choose a specialization. You may pursue an associate degree in business management to strengthen your business know-how gained from work experience. 

business adminstration workers discussing business outcomes

All about Online Associate in Business Administration Programs 

Online associate degree programs have a curriculum that represents half of the curriculum in bachelor’s degree programs. This means students earn at least 60-semester credits in a two-year curriculum. But that’s just the surface – here are a few more questions about online associates in business administration degree programs. 

Are You a Suitable Candidate? 

Prospective students to associate in business online programs must possess a high school diploma and show interest in business and in earning a business degree. Be sure to do a school search, too, to determine whether you’re a good fit for a program. 

What Will You Learn? 

A typical online associate degree in business administration program consists of a sequence of online courses designed to develop critical skills in business. General education, core business courses, and electives ensure a well-rounded education that can be applied to immediate employment and/or advanced education. 

Principles of Business Administration 

Students learn management principles and practices like leadership, social responsibility, and employee relations. 

Human Resources Management 

The course emphasizes both the human aspects and the legal and ethical requirements of managing people including hiring, training, and compensation. 

Managerial and Financial Accounting

Students learn about the accounting cycle, from record-keeping to the analysis of financial statements. Financial accounting is at the core of a business degree since accounting is the language of business. Skills in management accounting are considered essential skills since their outputs are for internal use. 

Business Communications

The course is crucial for success as business professionals must be able to communicate their plans and decisions to various groups, both in writing and through verbal means. 

Business Law

Every business degree program has a law course that covers contracts and obligations, consumer law, and other business-related laws since businesses operate within a legal framework. 

business administration staff with their boss
How Will You Learn? 

Online students are subject to the same rigorous academic standards as their on-campus counterparts. But their manner of learning differs in many ways. 

Learning Management System

All online associate programs have a specific learning management system (LMS) that enables online learning to happen. The digital infrastructure consists of features and functions where students can view the coursework, contact their professors and peers, and access their learning materials. Many LMS also have communications features, such as instant messages, chats, and emails. 

The most common LMS used in higher education are Moodle, Canvas, Blackboard, and Desire2Learn. 

Course Materials

Online students in associate in business degree programs learn from a wide range of course materials, both traditional and digital. Textbooks and e-books, podcasts and webcasts, PowerPoint presentations, and instructional videos on the LMS and other sites, such as TeacherTube, are common. 

Students are typically free to access (i.e., listen, watch and read) the course materials on their own schedule. But there are also synchronous classes that students must attend as scheduled. Time management is definitely one of the most important skills of successful online students. 

Assignments and Group Projects

Online education also means complying with the academic requirements of individual assignments and group projects with their deadlines. Never underestimate the time necessary for online learning because of the 24/7 access! 

These individual assignments have word counts, citations, and other academic requirements, too. You must develop your key skills in communication if you want to succeed in an online associate program! Other possible requirements are blogs or vlogs, Google or Zoom meetings, and other ways that online programs encourage interactions. 

Grading and Cheating 

Tests and other forms of assessment are just as important in online programs as these are in on-campus programs! Students in online associate programs will be graded based on their test performance, too. Don’t even think about cheating, plagiarism, and other learning shenanigans as there are measures in place against these aspects of online learning. 

Time Commitment

Earning your business degree from an online associate program means putting in the time, energy, and effort to meet the academic requirements. Online students are also graded based on their attendance including absences and tardiness in-class participation and submission of papers. 

business administration women workers
How Much Will It Cost? 

In many ways, an online associate degree in business administration can be cheaper than an on-campus associate degree. You don’t have to spend on transportation, room and board, and other incidental expenses. 

Most online programs also offer federal financial aid and institutional scholarships for online students. In community colleges, the financial aid can even result in little to no tuition paid! 

What’s the Level of Difficulty Like? 

Both community colleges and four-year universities offer quality online education that business organizations recognize. Since business administration is a large field of study, students will likely find it more challenging than they anticipated. The comprehensive curriculum means there are numerous independent disciplines that students must understand. 

Job Prospects with an Associate Degree in Business Administration

The best business education will take you places! According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, the projected job growth for management occupations is 8% (2021-2031) with 883,900 new jobs. Business administration graduates can look forward to diverse career opportunities in retail, manufacturing and commercial banking, among others. 

Plus, management occupations have the highest median annual wage of all major occupations at $102,450 annually (May 2021)! 

Assistant Store Managers ($50,941/year)

These are professionals in retail management who apply management theories in the day-to-day business operations of their organizations. Their general tasks include employee supervision, customer relations, and retail management activities like participation in the formulation of marketing strategies.

administrative assistant work
Project Management Assistants ($54,980/year

Under the supervision of experienced project managers, project management assistants are instrumental in the success of project implementation. Their general tasks include coordinating with project stakeholders, performing administrative tasks, and analyzing project requirements. 

Customer Service Supervisors ($49,358/year)

These are also retail management professionals whose main tasks include supervising, training, and leading service staff, as well as addressing customer issues. Theirs is a great job with projected job growth of 389,400 new openings every year. 

Office Administrators ($43,875/year

If you’re looking for challenging yet rewarding management positions and a full-time job, then pursue a career as an office administrator! Your main duties include ensuring that the business operations are running as planned. The projected job growth is fast, too, at 7% (2021-2031), or 31,900 openings per year

Loan Officers ($128,539/year

With a project job growth of 29,400 new openings per year, aspiring loan officers will find plenty of job opportunities. Their main duties include evaluating loan applications and recommending their approval, as well as reviewing loan terms.

business administration professional with a client

Frequently Asked Questions 

What exactly is an Associates in Business Administration degree? 

An associate degree in business administration is a two-year degree program that prepares students for an entry-level business career. Like other associate degree programs, only a high school diploma or GED equivalent is required as an academic credential. 

Will employers value an online Associate degree in Business Administration?

Yes, an online associate degree is now widely accepted in business organizations! Business administration graduates from associate degree programs have career opportunities in construction, hotel and restaurant, and retail management. While many are entry-level jobs, a business administration associate degree can be a stepping stone toward mid-level management positions. 

What is the best area of specialization in Business Administration? 

There’s no right or wrong answer! The business administration associate degree and its specialization for you should address your specific needs and wants in it. You can specialize in human resource management, international business, or operations management depending on your preferred business environment.  

What are excellent steps in starting your career in a Business Administration program? 

Earn your high school diploma and get good grades. Start the search for online associate business administration degree programs. If necessary, choose an online associate program with a seamless transition to a bachelor’s degree program. 

Be sure to take advantage of your business education by earning good grades. Don’t fall into the trap of online associate programs being easy-peasy because these degree programs aren’t! 

As part of a growing army of business administration graduates, you now have the college degree to be a competitive and productive employee – or perhaps you can be an employer/entrepreneur yourself! 

Is it worth studying as an online associate in business administration?

If you’re trying to weigh whether an associate degree in business administration is worth it or not, the short answer is yes, it is. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, management occupations are expected to grow by 7% over the next decade. Lodging managers, insurance underwriters, logisticians, and administrative services managers are common careers in this field.

Many career opportunities can be pursued with an associate’s degree in business administration. Thankfully, business administration is one of the few fields that only require an associate’s degree to get started.

What is the timeline that an online Associate in Business Administration student should be looking at?

Most associate’s degrees take two years to complete, but your schedule can affect the timeframe. It is much easier for adults or those enrolling in online programs to plan their degree timelines. A student can opt for an accelerated associate program or finish it in 3 to 6 years. 

associates in business administration graduate qualified for work

In Conclusion

  • Business administration is the study of day-to-day business operations.
  • Earning an associate degree in business administration will lead to career opportunities in the growing economy.

Check this out: The 5 Best Online Associates in Small Business Degrees

Malcolm Peralty
Chief Editor