2025 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees in North Carolina

Pursuing one of the most affordable online business degrees in North Carolina is the key to meeting the evolving demands of today's industries while staying within budget. These programs are designed to provide practical skills in areas like e-commerce, global trade, and team management, preparing graduates for success in a competitive job market.
Key Takeaways:
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro leads has a large online student body, with over 2,600 distance learners who are entirely remote.
- Campbell University stands out with a median graduate earnings of $56,327 among its business graduates.
- Lees-McRae College offers the lowest student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1. This student-centric approach is especially helpful when it comes to online learning.
We selected the most affordable online business degrees in North Carolina by manually researching tuition costs to ensure accuracy. Each school on our list is institutionally accredited and offers fully online business programs with clear, accessible tuition data. To learn more, please read our methodology.
2025 Most Affordable Online Business Degrees in North Carolina
Rank | School | Location | Annual Tuition | AACSB Accredited |
---|---|---|---|---|
Fayetteville State University | Fayetteville | $5,000 | Yes | |
Western Carolina University | Cullowhee | $6,250 | Yes | |
University of North Carolina at Charlotte | Charlotte | $7,624 | Yes | |
North Carolina Central University | Durham | $8,977 | Yes | |
University of North Carolina at Greensboro | Greensboro | $9,324 | Yes | |
Lees-McRae College | Banner Elk | $9,360 | No | |
William Peace University | Raleigh | $10,500 | No | |
Lenoir-Rhyne University | Hickory | $12,000 | No | |
Montreat College | Montreat | $12,900 | No | |
University of Mount Olive | Mount Olive | $13,650 | No | |
Campbell University | Buies Creek | $13,950 | No | |
Carolina University | Winston Salem (and 1 other) | $14,700 | No | |
North Carolina A&T State University | Greensboro | $17,640 | Yes |
A Closer Look at North Carolina's Most Affordable Online Business Degrees
When considering the best online degrees in North Carolina, you’re not just evaluating price tags — you’re analyzing an ecosystem of opportunities, features, and outcomes that vary widely between programs. Here’s what stands out from this list:
Affordability vs. Value
Affordability is a core metric, but it must be paired with outcomes like graduate earnings and student satisfaction. Fayetteville State University leads the affordability pack with an annual tuition of $5,000, but its median graduate earnings ($42,451) are comparatively modest. Campbell University, while more expensive at $13,950 annually, boasts the highest median earnings among its graduates ($56,327), demonstrating that sometimes, investing a bit more upfront yields higher returns.
Student-Centric Features
Schools like Lees-McRae College, with its 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio, prioritize personalized learning. This approach is particularly beneficial for online students who may need additional guidance in a virtual environment. On the other hand, larger schools like the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG), which serves over 2,600 fully online undergraduates, demonstrate scalability while maintaining flexibility through diverse specializations like healthcare management or financial sales.
Graduation and Retention Insights
Metrics like retention and graduation rates provide a glimpse into how well schools support their students. For instance, UNCC boasts a retention rate of 84% and a graduation rate of 70%, signaling strong student satisfaction and success. In contrast, Carolina University’s lower retention (49%) and graduation rates (30%) might indicate potential challenges, despite its affordability.
Which North Carolina Business School is Right for You?
On a tight budget? Fayetteville State University offers the lowest tuition at $5,000 annually, perfect for cost-conscious students.
Focused on long-term ROI? Campbell University stands out with the highest median graduate earnings of $56,327, making it a worthwhile investment despite its higher tuition.
Need personalized support? Lees-McRae College’s 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures individualized attention for online learners.
Looking for flexibility and specialization? University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers diverse options like healthcare management and financial sales, serving over 2,600 fully online students.
By aligning your goals with these programs’ strengths, you can make an informed choice for your future.
High Paying Careers for Online Business Degree Graduates in North Carolina
To help you identify the highest-paying business careers in North Carolina that require only a bachelor's degree, we analyzed state-specific data from the to simplify your search:
Personal Financial Advisors
In North Carolina, as a personal financial advisor, you would help clients navigate their financial futures, particularly in growing urban areas like Charlotte, a major financial hub, and Raleigh. Your expertise supports individuals and families in achieving financial security in one of the fastest-growing states in the nation.
Purchasing Managers
Managing the procurement process as a purchasing manager, you evaluate suppliers, negotiate contracts, and ensure your organization gets the best value. Your decisions directly impact efficiency and profitability.
Sales Representatives
Sales representatives in North Carolina excel in industries like biotechnology, furniture manufacturing, and agriculture, connecting businesses with essential products. From marketing high-tech tools in Research Triangle Park to promoting textiles in Charlotte, these roles drive revenue and build strong client relationships.
Financial and Investment Analysts
Working as a financial and investment analyst, you analyze market trends and data to shape smart investment strategies. Your insights help businesses and individuals make confident financial choices.
This list highlights some of the highest-paying careers in North Carolina that you can achieve with just a bachelor’s degree in business online. These roles demonstrate the versatility of a business degree and its ability to cater to diverse industries — such as finance, biotechnology, and manufacturing. If you wanted to get more specific, you could also get your education in a related field like an economics degree. If you’re aspiring to advance further, consider pursuing certifications, networking opportunities, or even a master’s degree to enhance your expertise and career prospects.
Final Thoughts
With 13 affordable schools offering online business degrees in North Carolina, prospective students benefit from a wide range of options compared to states with fewer offerings. This abundance reflects North Carolina’s commitment to accessible, flexible education and its recognition of the growing demand for online learning. With tuition data manually collected, students can easily compare these programs to find the one that best aligns with their academic and financial goals.
Business careers in North Carolina are not only diverse but also highly lucrative. For instance, management occupations in the state offer a remarkable mean annual wage of , while business and financial operations occupations earn an average of annually. North Carolina’s thriving urban hubs, like Charlotte and Raleigh, play a significant role in driving these competitive salaries, supported by industries like finance, technology, and manufacturing.
As you explore your options, consider our most affordable business degrees to find schools with the lowest tuition.
Student Reviews of Online Business Programs
As a current student pursuing my Bachelor's in Business at the University of Phoenix, I’ve found the online learning experience to be flexible, engaging, and career-focused. The curriculum is designed to align with real-world business challenges, and the instructors bring valuable industry insights to each course. I appreciate the emphasis on critical thinking, collaboration, and practical application. The support services—from academic advising to tech assistance- have been responsive and helpful.... Read More
Review Date: 9/19/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Finishing up my first term at WGU soon and I have nothing but great things to say about my experience so far. Obviously I still have a ways to go before I graduate, but the courses so far have been challenging in the best possible way. I was skeptical to apply at first because of previous reviews I had read online, but being a mom of 2 who works two full time jobs, I didn't have the luxury of choosing a brick and mortar school to finish my degree and move forward in my career field. Now that my first... Read More
Review Date: 4/29/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
As a near graduate with only a few credits left, I can honestly say that I thoroughly enjoyed my education at CSU Global. I was reading over many of the reviews here on GadReports as a bit of a retrospective and because I am looking at various graduate programs. It is rather astonishing to see so many negative reviews that have misjudged the institution's intent and ethics. Before attending CSU-G I had the opportunity to start on a physical campus at a respected community college in California. I... Read More
Review Date: 8/30/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Their financial department s. The representatives dont know what theyre doing. If you ask questions they just repeat the previous answer they gave you. Also, when it comes time to waiting on final grades the teachers will take days just to grade an assignment that has already been graded. Dont mind waiting on my grades until it comes time for me to get a refund and my disbursement days getting pushed back because my professor taking forever to post final grades.
Review Date: 5/2/2018
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Honestly I find their online forum to be betrer than most online schools. I llike rhe structure of everything but what is upsetting for me is the financial aspect. More importantly the lack of assistance should things become difficult. I am a full time stufent while workikg full time in an executive management position. So itnis taking me a while to earn my degree while balancing both. Through financial aid they have collected more than $30k for my schooling. I am now down to about 10 courses to... Read More
Review Date: 1/29/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Systems are not user friendly. Online security makes it extremely difficult to do the school work online with limited help. Adults are treated like kids with all security targeting an individuals integrity. Adult course shouldn't be made this difficult to attend. .
Review Date: 1/19/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I chose to go back to school several years after graduating high school. I read many reviews on many different colleges. One school that continually popped up in my search was Columbia Southern University. Not only did this school have very good reviews, but the tuition was very reasonable and this school offered online classes. I could not be more happy with my decision. I have just completed my first term and I am proud of my grades so far! Online classes are definitely much different than a traditional... Read More
Review Date: 2/12/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Strayer is a great school and the professors really care and are ready to help. I made one call and they have been there helping me and motivating. I have been out of school for 17 years and i am doing online classes and it is not hard. You just need to stay focused.
Review Date: 9/3/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
You have to work hard. You actually need to put into work. Financial aid and school adviser are great. They have very good degree program. You can also adjust your speed to taking classes. You do not have to locked up in traditional form of study. Online course is 7 weeks program and it is short enough to concentrate and long enough to learn much of information. If you do not think this Grand Canyon University can bring you what you promised it is on you not the school. Better be ready for some challenges.... Read More
Review Date: 7/17/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I love this school and it’s online degree program! Best thing that ever happened to me! The fact that I was able to move at my own pace with professors who genuinely care about your school, work, and personal life meant everything! Gave me the motivation and confidence I needed in order obtain my long desired degree! Thank you Strayer!
Review Date: 11/21/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
No books, just random magazine articles. I asked about this before enrolling....was told some courses don't have books. When I went to enroll in the next term I started checking all the future classes. None had books. In California colleges and universities must list required books at registration. So perhaps this has caused the awkwardness of no books. Its a great brick and mortar school. Wait a bit for them to work out the quirks and check back.
Review Date: 5/10/2016
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Online learning requires dedication and time management. I found many of the courses challenging. Some of the courses helped to ease the burden of those more challenging classes. The instructors evolved with the difficulty level of the class type. From my perspective as a former campus based student, online classes require a lot more time management skill. Faulkner University has its academic challenges but the course work is inline with similar business schools lincluding Auburn and Alabama.
Review Date: 4/30/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I know there are some negative comments from other students, but I think it is mainly with the Nursing program, which I cannot provide assessment to. However, being a Business student and graduate from Excelsior, I can tell you it was on par with the state universities I have been enrolled in prior. Having done both traditional classroom and online classes, Excelsior was equally challenging. Student services was better than University of Maryland, University of Missouri Kansas City, and DeVry combined.... Read More
Review Date: 11/11/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I'm currently carrying a 3.79 GPA, studying for my BS in Business Management with a certificate in Advanced Software Development. My experience falls along the lines of I get out of this school what I put into it, and I'm already getting paid even though I graduate in 2017 (more on that in a moment). I went to a prestigious university right after high school, but I didn't take it seriously. I ended up losing my financial aid at the time because my GPA dipped below 2.0. I also got into some legal... Read More
Review Date: 5/9/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I chose UMUC to pursue a bachelor's degree online. I've had online courses before, and I understood that the workload is often more for out of classroom learning. If you are looking for someone to hold your hand while you learn, I don't recommend taking an online course. The only reason to take an online course is for the flexibility. As for UMUC's flexibility, it was largely dependent on the teacher. Each class requires weekly discussions as part of a participation grade, but some assign group discussions... Read More
Review Date: 7/19/2016
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Reading the other article about GCU where much different then my experience. I have earn a Bachelors and just completing my Master here at the University, I have nothing but great things to said about this institution. Of course there are stubbing block but you will get them at every university. It is hard to satisfy everyone but from the blocks of instruction , the professor , enrollment counselor as well as the student advisors they all receive nothing but praise for a job well done. GCU, Thanks... Read More
Review Date: 2/27/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I do not understand why there are so many negative reviews. You most definitely have to work hard and believe me when I say the course "crunch" is grueling but at the end it is very worth it to pursue a degree with this school. I did have a couple instructors that were subpar but for the most part they were outstanding. As for the cost, my youngest daughter is considering a school that charges almost $1200 per credit so at $450 a credit it's a bargain... I graduated with a 3.74 overall GPA; 3.54... Read More
Review Date: 3/1/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am very disappointed to see the negative comments about Ashford. Every member of staff I ever spoke to was very friendly and as helpful as possible. I have attended for four years and never had any problems with staff or instructors. My advisers always responded in a timely manner and I feel I have received a quality education at Ashford and will most likely go on to get my Master's there. The problem is that many people are not disciplined enough to supervise themselves through life. A college... Read More
Review Date: 3/31/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
As a new college graduate from WGU, I wanted to provide a review on my experience to share with anyone that may be considering attending. WGU was without question, the best educational experience I have had. It is run like a normal business and you are treated as their customer. The work is hard but very complete and relevant. I was able to put my head down and work through 3 years of school in 1.5yr's. I loved my coursework and while some classes are better than others, in general it was very well... Read More
Review Date: 12/7/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I completed a BS Online through BYU-Idaho in Business Management. I highly recommend this degree to anyone who wants to finish their degree while still maintaining a full-time job. The professors know what they are doing and cater to your needs. The degree pushes you to have good communication with others as well as stay on top of your studies. It's your choice if you want to get something out of the degree, and by having it online, you don't have to worry about running to classes.
Review Date: 2/2/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes