Best Online Business Management Degrees
Our list of the best online business management degrees highlights accredited schools graduating the most students in this field, giving you a clear view of where students are the most successful.
Key Takeaways:
- #1 is Western Governors University leads with 2,505 graduates from its B.S. in Business Administration with a Management concentration.
- Southern New Hampshire University Online is the largest online school overall, with over 154,000 students studying remotely.
- Waldorf University, which graduated 50 management students last year, has the top recommendation rate on our list at 95%.
See our methodology for full details on how we select the best bachelor’s degree in business management. Expert insights follow the ranking analysis. Drawing on his experience as both an MBA professor and global consultant, Dr. Adrian Alvarez discusses how to choose the best online management degree.
Best Online Business Management Degrees
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Western Governors University | 2,505 | $8,300 | $79,431 | 74% | |
| Purdue Global | 958 | $11,130 | $57,541 | 74% | |
| Southern New Hampshire University Online | 326 | $9,900 | $70,857 | 69% | |
| UMass Global | 282 | $15,000 | $77,949 | 70% | |
| Fort Hays State University | 235 | $7,719 | $63,192 | 82% | |
| Washington State University | 194 | $13,021 | $69,669 | 87% | |
| National University | 169 | $4,162 | $70,412 | N/A | |
| Arizona State University, Online | 86 | $24,780 | $79,619 | 93% | |
| Northern Illinois University | 75 | $22,622 | $76,392 | 88% | |
| Liberty University | 66 | $11,700 | $62,875 | 75% | |
| University of Wisconsin - Stout | 63 | $16,278 | $70,644 | 84% | |
| University of Wisconsin - Whitewater | 53 | $12,360 | $68,804 | 94% | |
| Waldorf University | 50 | $9,900 | N/A | 95% | |
| Southeastern Oklahoma State University | 43 | $17,550 | N/A | 94% | |
| Franklin University | 46 | $11,940 | $64,305 | 85% |
The Best Online Business Management Degrees: What the Numbers Really Mean for You
Choosing the best online management degree is a challenge because there are quite a few of them to choose from. We narrowed it down to the top 15 based which have the highest number of graduates in management. Large cohorts often signal trust among students and employers alike.
On this list, online schools graduated anywhere from just over 40 students to more than 2,500 in management last year. We believe that a degree program with proven demand is better positioned to connect you with peers.
On this list, online schools graduated anywhere from just over 40 students to more than 2,500 in management last year.
Western Governors University (WGU) tops the list with over 2,500 graduates in management, making it the largest by far. By contrast, schools like Northern Illinois University (NIU) or Southeastern Oklahoma State University (SE) graduate closer to 40-75 students per year, creating more intimate cohorts that are still thriving.
Below, we discuss the schools with the most successful management programs online in more detail. We go over other metrics like outcomes data — median earnings in the mid-$70,000s, with some schools approaching $80,000 just four years after graduating — and you get a clearer picture of how these degrees translate into professional momentum.
Management Degrees and the Real Payoff: What the Earnings Data Shows
Earnings data is one of the clearest windows into the value of an online degree, especially a competitive degree like a bachelor's in business or management.
Schools like Arizona State University (ASU Online) ($79,619 median) and UMass Global ($77,949) sit at the high end of the scale, placing their graduates in the top fifth nationally for business-related pay. These figures suggest that employer recognition and career ROI are particularly strong for business management programs on this list.
On the other hand, schools like Liberty University ($62,875 median) and Fort Hays State University (FHSU) ($63,192) show lower outcomes, though still competitive compared to national medians (around $49,500 across all occupations, according to the ). Importantly, their recommendation rates remain healthy (75% and 82%, respectively), signaling that students feel supported.
Which Online Schools On Our List Do Students Recommend Most?
While salary outcomes can grab your attention, one of the most telling signals in our data is how likely students are to recommend their school to others. These recommendation rates, based on tens of thousands of survey responses, reveal which online schools hosting management degrees online will deliver when it comes to day-to-day experiences.
The data shows us that schools with the highest recommendation rates often share one of two traits — AACSB accreditation or strong persistence metrics. For example, UW-Whitewater (94%), SOSU (94%), and WSU (87%) all pair accreditation with high graduation or retention rates, signaling programs that keep students supported, all the way to the finish line.
Interestingly, earnings don’t drive recommendation rates. Schools like National University show strong salaries for management grads ($70,412) but lower satisfaction (49%).
Recommendation rates reveal the lived student experience. High recc rate schools aren’t always the biggest or the highest paying, but they consistently offer academic credibility, strong completion outcomes, and supportive structures that make students feel confident recommending them to peers. For management students, we think this matters because your degree is also the network will carry into your career.
Program Features That Help Define the Best Management Degrees Online
Oftentimes, the best management programs distinguish themselves through design choices that shape how students learn and apply their skills. Across the list, three themes stand out to us:
Speed and Flexibility in Learning
For working adults, the ability to move faster or customize pacing is a decisive advantage.
WGU illustrates this with its competency-based model. Students can progress once they’ve mastered the material, however fast that may be.
Purdue Global offers ExcelTrack, another accelerated pathway.
National University structures courses in one-month blocks to keep momentum high.
Career-Centered Credentials and Concentrations
Many programs integrate industry-aligned credentials directly into the curriculum, so graduates walk away with more than a diploma. Concentrations, similarly, help students define their niche in the real world.
SNHU embeds HR and project management certifications.
UW-Stout allows students to earn stackable credentials such as Six Sigma or SAP ERP alongside the degree.
Liberty University’s Automotive Dealership Management track stands out as unique.
Purdue Global’s 17 niche concentrations reflect an intentional bridge into real-world industries.
Global and Inclusive Perspectives
Lastly, we noticed the emphasis on expanding the concept of management beyond traditional models.
WSU requires an international component — studying abroad and global internships — bringing cross-cultural experience into an online degree.
NIU takes a different angle with its focus on equity leadership and mentoring, preparing managers to lead diverse teams and implement inclusive practices.
Future managers should look not just at popularity or pay but at whether a program offers flexible pacing, embedded credentials, or broadened perspectives. The business management program you choose decides how effectively you can step into leadership roles after graduation.
Reputation Matters First: Expert Weighs In on Choosing the Best Management Degrees
Online MBA professor / Managing Partner at a Consultancy
What do you think is most important when choosing an online business management bachelor's program?
"I believe it is the university’s reputation because consultancies and companies too, look at where you study. This is very important for the first job, after the first job, the importance is much lower, as the employers look at what you did and what you achieved where you have worked in the past more than your education.
Another important topic is how it is taught, because this gives you a hint about the quality of the program. Some universities have pre-recorded classes with no interaction. There is some interaction when you submit cases, exercises and tests, as you receive the results. In some cases explaining what you did wrong. If there are no synchronous classes. This is a clear indicator of a low-quality university."
What do you see as the biggest benefits of earning a business management degree online?
"The biggest benefit is that you do it at your pace and in places where you can’t get a degree. I, for example, have many students that are from far-away regions that would not get at the local level the type of quality education they get from us.
Usually, you also have a more diverse class in terms of countries/cultures and backgrounds that you would otherwise get. Then, this is another benefit, as you get new perspectives on business issues."
The biggest benefit is that you do it at your pace and in places where you can’t get a degree.
Business management is a broad field. How can students tailor their degree to fit specific career goals?
"This actually depends on the university they choose and the program they offer. If there are many options in terms of how you can configure your degree, then, it will be possible. In many cases, you deal with what you get.
The overall advice, however, is to configure your degree (to the extent possible) to where you want to work. Having that said, many times the future holds challenges.
In my case, I majored in marketing and became Marketing Manager, but, then, the CFO left the company, and I was offered to step in and I did. So, the future might look very different than you imagined. Having that said, then, I got two postgraduate degrees in finance at night to cover for my lack of financial background."
What types of entry-level roles are most common for business management graduates?
"The most typical entry roles are analyst. The skills most needed are, in my opining, the ability to work well with others, the work ethic of always walking the extra-mile, presenting well is also key, because you always have to present your ideas."
EXPERT TIP
Work hard, sell yourself and your work, be kind, but not too much because if you are too kind people will take advantage of you
FAQs About Online Business Management Degrees
What Types of Online Business Management Degrees Can You Earn?
Online business management degrees are designed to help students qualify for many types of business and managerial occupations. Courses cover the financial, operational, and staffing concerns found in all sizes and types of business organizations. Some schools, including those with online programs, offer Bachelor of Arts programs, which provide a broad educational foundation, while others offer Bachelor of Science programs that typically focus on industry-specific skills. Additionally, some schools feature a Bachelor of Business Administration degree with a concentration in management.
Are you unsure about pursuing a business management degree? Consider exploring a bachelor's degree in leadership, a finance degree online, or a communications program instead.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Management Degree?
Business management programs provide a basic understanding of managerial operations, including financial planning, organizing, and controlling, as well as related fields, such as finance and accounting. Students learn to work individually or in groups, which allows them to enhance their collaboration, leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills. Some schools require online business management students to gain practical experience by completing capstone projects or internships. The following are some of the courses commonly found in a business management program.
- Principles of Management: Often one of the early classes in an online business management program, this course gives students a broad overview of management functions. Course materials cover the business environment, corporate culture, organizational structure, and strategy. Students also start to see the manager's role in business operations and the need for specific skills, such as decision making, goal setting, and ethical leadership.
- Business Statistics: Statistical data plays an important role in managerial decision making and performance measurement, so this course teaches students how to collect, analyze, and apply this information in a business environment. A math-heavy course, business statistics explores both descriptive and inferential statistics. Other possible topics include market research, quality control, and forecasting.
- Corporate Finance: This course explains how business organizations manage money to maximize value for the shareholders or owners. Students learn about the role of cash in day-to-day operations, as well as long-term concerns such as funding sources, investments, the allocation of financial resources, and taxes. Coursework covers how to understand and interpret financial documents.
- Economics: Sometimes split across two terms, a course in economics explores the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services, including the exchange of wealth. Macroeconomics looks at the larger global economic system as well as smaller national and regional economies. Microeconomics, by contrast, looks at the actions of individuals and firms to see how they impact the economy.
- Financial and Managerial Accounting: Another subject sometimes divided into two terms, an accounting course helps students understand an organization's financial records. The section on financial accounting covers basic accounting methods and bookkeeping, explaining such concepts as debits and credits. Managerial accounting then enables students to interpret and make decisions based on these financial records. Coursework may require students to apply their understanding of finances to managerial functions, such as planning and budgeting.
- Fundamentals of Marketing: Most marketing courses begin by introducing the "four Ps" of marketing — product, price, promotion, and place (or distribution). Students discover the purpose of marketing and how efforts are made to build brand awareness and attract an organization's target audience. Students also learn how marketing is closely intertwined with many other business functions, such as accounting, production, and shipping.
- Information Systems Management: For future managers, a course in information systems management goes beyond the fundamentals of information networks, databases, software, and business communications. Students understand how managers use these systems as tools for making better decisions, solving problems, working more efficiently, and gaining advantages over competitors.
What Can You Do With an Online Business Management Degree?
Acquiring a management degree can be the first step on a wide range of potential career paths across many different industries. Management may be a promising field for college graduates, who may be interested in pursuing one of the following potential occupations:
are found at all levels of an organization and in many types of businesses and industries. Whether they oversee one department or location or many, they are typically responsible for leading, planning, organizing, staffing, and controlling their part of the organization. The highest-paying positions are found in banking, scientific research, and computer manufacturing.
are responsible for ensuring that an organization's employees have the raw materials, products, machinery, and services needed to perform their job duties.
With several years of experience, some business managers may decide to become . These professionals are typically self-employed as independent consultants who help business organizations become more efficient and profitable.
Highly experienced business managers may rise to the level of . A CEO is responsible for overseeing an entire business organization by crafting strategic plans, setting policies, and hiring other top executives that allow the organization to maximize value and meet goals. The median annual salary is $189,950 and the job outlook is declining by 6%.
If you want to keep exploring career options for this degree, try exploring our Career Finder tool to see where popular programs can lead you on your career path.
How Long Does It Take To Get a Business Management Degree Online?
Most business management bachelor's degrees require the completion of 120-126 credit hours. Students enrolled full time generally complete this program in four years, but part-time students may require additional semesters to finish the program. If you have previous college or applicable work experience, you may be able to satisfy some of your degree requirements and graduate sooner.
What Certification Will I Need To Go With an Online Management Program?
Although management professionals are not generally required to be certified, project management or Six Sigma certification can be an advantage in some industries. certification, which focuses on mastering common project management skills and tools, can take up to a year to complete. Depending on the program you choose, you may need a bachelor's degree to enroll. Six Sigma programs will teach you proven methods for improving processes, quality, and productivity.
Student Reviews of Online Management Programs
I was disappointed in one element of my educational experience. It occurred for me as if the school added classes that I did not need, and was structuring my classes according to a major that was slightly different than what I declared when I transferred there. Because of this, I took a few classes that I did not need, and ultimately, I ran reached the maximum for my student loans and was not able to complete my degree as scheduled. This was frustrating, and I was very disappointed.
Review Date: 10/9/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
My desire for higher education was fulfilled. The contents of the various courses of study were very relevant to what I do now. The courses though time consuming, were flexible. Studying at my own pace made the program study friendly. Learning environment created a rapport with other students and professors alike. I’ll readily recommend University of Phoenix for anyone interested in learning.
Review Date: 6/25/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I have had official transcripts sent twice to the school. Even though I get email verification that they have arrived, they act like they never did. I can't get the finance dept to send me an email to set up my Bank Mobile to get refunds. The instructors that aren't professors are there just to pass time. They are barely active in the class. I have a hard time even responding to discussion boards because the number of students in the class are illiterate clowns that can't follow instructions.
Review Date: 5/18/2023
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
My advisor is inadequate and incompetent to guide me through the educational situation, I have not spoken or heard from that guy so I just refuse to contact him. whom ever he is surely is not tracking my education and should be the first to compliment and give supporting advice on staying on Deans list because of him I believe I waisted a lot of my time with this school doing subjects I have done already and regret being present for this journey. I am not very happy at all but just keep pressing... Read More
Review Date: 8/26/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I'm currently enrolled in SNHU taking the BS.OMA.PMA degree plan (Bachelor's in Operations management with concentration in Project Management) I felt the need to write this review because of some of the very low stars I see on here written by probably younger students or those who are not great with computers. After my first year attending my only hope is that more students are failed for there blatant inability read instructions and write semi-coherently. I've maintained a 4.0 GPA thus far by simply... Read More
Review Date: 2/22/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I graaduate from CGU w/ a 3.8 in applied mangement. It was purdy easy 2 do the studies. Just cut and paste most if the work and boom a degree. I going back 4 my master one in leadship and business. Its a 2fer. I am kidding of course. There are several students that compose messages like this and it is my opinion that these are the ones on here bitching about everything. It is college people, it is supposed to be tough. The courses are challenging but not terribly difficult with a little time management... Read More
Review Date: 8/25/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I can say that this school and campus treats you like more than just a student its almost like having an extended family they really go above and beyond to give you everything to succeed, they are always concerned about your well being in and out of the classroom. I can say my time at Everglades University Orlando campus has been a wonderful experience hands down. I received my Bachelors degree in management a couple years ago here, and I'm back in class to get my Masters that should be a testament... Read More
Review Date: 6/18/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
SNHU is a good school if you are a full time employee, active duty military, a single parent/stay at home parent, AND you are not paying for it (Gi Bill, scholarships, etc.). The price is outrageous for the education I received. It is only good for meeting that minimum qualification requirement that many employers have. Did I learn a lot? eh. more than I knew going in, but not as much as I really should have. I blew through the courses on President's list, making all A's with a few A-'s, mostly to... Read More
Review Date: 8/4/2021
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I am on my second year at Strayer University. It's being an awesome journey. The online experience has being very rewarding, Strayer's team make you feel like a big part of the family. Advisors are always there for you to guide you and cheer you up when you needed.
Review Date: 11/22/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Fort hays University is a Good school but they are Financial office suck they are so slow and They advisor from the General Studies program is waste of time please don't. choose the General studies program because the advisor will not let you take the class that you want to take and please start taking classes and the community college and Registrar's Office is ok but they are very slow.
Review Date: 12/19/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I am a well established professional and veteran, currently working in an IT related field for the government. Despite the success in my career, I decided to go back and finish my degree during COVID times, as I may soon be inclined to change my career path. Frankly, the only reason I am writing a review about UMGC is to offer a truthful testimony, as many of the reviews present here are untrue. Out of all of the instructors I had (around 28 in 18 months), maybe two could use some serious improvement... Read More
Review Date: 12/7/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
APUS is a great institution for individuals who either prefer online learning or are unable to attend in-person classes. The undergrad programs are regionally accredited and the college course credits should be accepted at any likewise accredited university, whether transferring schools or applying for grad school. This is particularly a good option for individuals interested in pursuing post-graduate education. As with many online learning environments, the level and quality of education you receive... Read More
Review Date: 5/12/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Honestly, Strayer was Supposed to be a stepping stone for me. What it ended up being was a change in maturity, attitude and personal growth. From the random e-mail checkins from past Professors to the near weekly calls with my success coach, I found a group of people who heard my story and convinced me that I was worth it. There will be no greater achievement for me than walking across the stage and graduating and proving that I am worth it!
Review Date: 11/21/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I think this university really goes out of their way to ensure that students can obtain the education they desire. Their course catalog includes options for on-campus, web conference/distant learning, and online education. The university uses the canvas module effectively so that students can easily navigate and manage their course work. Additionally, I think that the student advisers are extremely helpful and truly do have the best interest of their students in mind. The course instructors seem... Read More
Review Date: 7/30/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I was skeptical about attending the University of Phoenix because I know a lot of employers are biased about online colleges. I'm a new student, and so far my experience has been great. The advisers were helpful from the beginning and still are. I've returned to college after a long break, so I appreciate some of the lower division classes I was required to take to help me adjust to student life. I have found most of the material to be informative. The instructors are supportive for the most part.... Read More
Review Date: 10/1/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I can not rate the education program yet because it has taken them 3 months to register me. I was very eager to start my masters program and gave them everything needed fairly quickly but they are very slow to get back and when they do, they made your next appointment for 2 weeks later. Other institutions do everything in their power to get you started as soon as possible. Not Brandman, I’m still waiting. At this point, I’m going back to Liberty and their strict schedule.
Review Date: 10/20/2020
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Excellent school for those wanting to save money and working. Curriculum is the same as other schools and professors are true professionals. I have nothing negative to say and it is an excellent experience. I am doing the life pace program and currently finishing courses in 4 weeks. If you are concerned with accreditation just move in the last year to Waldorf.
Review Date: 11/19/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
As an active duty military member, I've hoped around with schools trying to figure what suits me best. I originally started with University of Phoenix but hated the "team" assignments. Then I went to Waldorf University, which I loved, but decided to switch my major to a program they did not have. I also wanted to have shorter classes so I could utilize my Tuition Assistance more and fit in more classes throughout the year. Ashford University seemed to have everything I needed. This school is extremely... Read More
Review Date: 4/18/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I have read mostly the negative reviews, and I have to say that the experiences described there have not been mine. What I really find frustrating in the reviews are the people in their first year complaining that it is the worst college ever, or the people in their last year rating it really low based on a single class. I have had all the resources I need to succeed in class. If you need more than is offered, perhaps online learning is not for you.
Review Date: 11/7/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I would have never imagined myself going back to college at this stage of life, but here I am enrolled in an online degree program at DeVry University, mastering skill sets that lead to experiencing a life filled with excitement of tapping into personal potential on a professional level. DeVry's curriculum finding enthusiasm of accomplishment through all courses especially accounting and business management, which I would have missed if I just have continued with the status quo of nothingness. Knowing... Read More
Review Date: 6/29/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No