Earning a business degree can open the door to a multitude of careers. With so many professions to go into such as management, accounting, and entrepreneurship, it can be difficult to find the right career to pursue. Finding an intriguing profession is hard enough which is why we’re here to help you find the right school to attend.
Below we’ve compiled a list of the top schools to attend while earning an Associate Degree in Business. These schools are the most affordable and designed to help you achieve in such a competitive and growing profession. No matter which school is chosen you’ll learn the basics of business and how to become a strong leader. These programs are great for individuals wanting to start their business careers or individuals wishing to pursue more degrees. Starting your future has never been easier.
Methodology
All schools considered for these rankings
- Are regionally or nationally accredited
- Offer at least one fully online business associate degree (with no more than two weeks of required in-person work)
- Were collected from official accrediting agency websites.
Schools are ranked solely by the average net price as released in the most recent IPEDs database collected in July of 2023.
2024 Most Affordable Online Colleges for Associate Degree in Business
| Rank | School | Average Net Price |
| #1 | Washtenaw Community College | $2,995 |
| #2 | Clovis Community College – NM | $3,927 |
| #3 | Arkansas Northeastern College | $4,117 |
| #4 | Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas | $5,172 |
| #5 | Panola College | $5,368 |
| #6 | Carl Albert State College | $5,449 |
| #7 | Waubonsee Community College | $5,597 |
| #8 | Rappahannock Community College | $6,158 |
| #9 | Western Nebraska Community College | $6,376 |
| #10 | Atlanta Metropolitan State College | $6,649 |
| #11 | Bay Mills Community College | $6,783 |
| #12 | Delgado Community College | $6,942 |
| #13 | Cochise College | $7,124 |
| #14 | Highland Community College – KS | $7,416 |
| #15 | Florida SouthWestern State College | $8,547 |
| #16 | Central Community College | $8,690 |
| #17 | Southeast Community College | $8,818 |
| #18 | Northeast Community College | $8,898 |
| #19 | Georgia State University-Perimeter College | $10,348 |
| #20 | Navarro College | $13,520 |
| #21 | Broward College | $14,577 |
| #22 | Albany State University | $14,904 |
10 Best Affordable Colleges for Online Associate Degree in Business
1. Washtenaw Community College
Average Net Price: $2,995
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Acceptance Rate: 100%
The Washtenaw Community College online Associate Degree in Business is a two-year program that prepares students for transfer to a bachelor’s degree program in business at a four-year college or university. The program offers a broad foundation in business principles, including accounting, finance, marketing, management, and economics. Specializing in a specific area of business, like entrepreneurship, human resources, or supply chain management, is an opportunity available to students.
Providing students with the flexibility to attend courses remotely, the program is entirely online, making it a convenient alternative for those unable to physically attend campus classes. Classes are taught by experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields. Online textbooks, discussion boards, and tutoring are among the range of online resources that students can utilize.
If students aspire to meet the requirements for the program, they must possess a high school diploma or a comparable qualification. They must also meet the college’s English and math placement requirements.
The program typically takes two years to complete. Students can complete the program faster by taking summer classes or more than one class per semester.
2. Clovis Community College, New Mexico
Average Net Price: $3,927
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Clovis Community College offers an online Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration degree program. Students will receive instruction in a variety of business-related topics, including:
Accounting
Marketing
Management
Additional subjects through the program
They will also have the opportunity to complete internships and other hands-on learning experiences.
The AAS in Business Administration program at CCC is an excellent choice for students who prefer not to attend a traditional four-year college but still wish to obtain a business degree. Designed to cater to the needs of students with hectic schedules, the program offers affordability, convenience, and flexibility, rendering it an ideal option.
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for students wishing to enroll in the CCC’s AAS in Business Administration degree program. They must also have completed at least 12 transferable college credits.
The AAS in Business Administration degree program at CCC is a two-year program. By taking classes full-time, students have the option to complete the program in as little as two years. On the other hand, if students prefer a more flexible schedule, they can complete the program part-time over a longer period.
The AAS in Business Administration degree program at CCC has a variable cost that hinges on a variety of factors. These factors include the number of credits students enroll in per semester and their status as full-time or part-time learners. Nevertheless, the program’s cost is typically reasonable, and financial aid is at students’ disposal to assist them in financing their education.
3. Arkansas Northeastern College
Average Net Price: $4,117
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Acceptance Rate: 100%
The Arkansas Northeastern College (ANC) online Associate Degree in Business is a 64-credit program that can be completed in as little as two years. The curriculum has been specifically crafted to equip students with the necessary skills for commencing their careers in diverse business areas, such as accounting, marketing, management, and human resources, among others.
The program includes a combination of general education and business courses and an internship. Students who complete the program will be able to demonstrate the following competencies:
Apply the basic principles of accounting, finance, marketing, and management
Use information technology to support business decision-making
Communicate effectively in writing and orally
Work effectively in teams
Solve business problems
Demonstrate ethical behavior in business
The ANC online Associate Degree in Business is a great option for students who want to earn a degree in business without having to attend classes on campus. Completing the program on either a part-time or full-time basis is a viable option, as it is both affordable and flexible.
To be eligible for the ANC online Associate Degree in Business, students must meet the following requirements:
Have a high school diploma or GED
Have completed a minimum of 12 credit hours of college-level coursework with a grade of “C” or better
Have a minimum ACT composite score of 18 or SAT score of 950
Admission to the program may be granted provisionally to students who fail to meet the aforementioned requirements.
The ANC online Associate Degree in Business is a valuable credential that can help students advance their careers in business. The program is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), and it is recognized by employers throughout the country.
4. Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas
Average Net Price: $5,172
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas offers an online Associate of Science in Business degree. Accounting, business administration, management, and marketing are the careers that this degree is designed for. Utilizing the degree as a starting point, one could potentially progress towards obtaining a bachelor’s degree in business.
The online Associate of Science in Business degree at Cossatot Community College is a 60-credit program that can be completed in two years. As the program is available in a completely online format, students have the possibility to finish their coursework from anywhere.
The online Associate of Science in Business degree at Cossatot Community College includes courses in accounting, business law, economics, finance, marketing, and management. Business ethics, human resources, and international business are available as elective courses for the students.
UA Cossatot offers two options for earning a business associate degree. The first option, an Associate of Applied Science in Business Management, is for students who plan to transfer to a four-year school to earn their bachelor’s degree. Students in this course of study will also earn a Technical Certificate in Agriculture, which is embedded in the coursework of this associate’s degree. The emphasis of this certificate is placed on owning and operating your farm/ranch operation.
The second online business program offered by UA Cossatot leads to an Associate of Science in Business. This degree is intended to prepare students for success as they transfer to a public Arkansas four-year university to finish their bachelor’s degree. It is a first step towards completing a baccalaureate degree so students can gain employment in accounting, business administration, marketing, or management positions.
5. Panola College
Average Net Price: $5,368
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Panola College’s online Associate Degree in Business empowers students to gain essential business skills from anywhere. This two-year accredited program actively engages learners through flexible online courses that cover core topics like accounting, finance, marketing, and management.
Students can tailor their education by selecting electives to concentrate in areas like human resources, project management, or e-commerce. Hands-on experiential learning opportunities such as internships and client projects allow students to actively apply their new knowledge in real business settings.
Upon completing the associate degree, graduates will have developed in-demand skills to confidently pursue roles in their chosen business field or continue their studies. With experienced faculty guiding students through an interactive curriculum, affordable tuition, and the ability to learn on their schedules, Panola College provides a dynamic online business program.
This accessible, career-focused online degree equips students with the expertise and credentials to actively shape their business careers and make an impact in today’s competitive marketplace.
6. Carl Albert State College
Average Net Price: $5,449
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Carl Albert State College (CASC) offers an online Associate of Science (AS) degree in Enterprise Development with a Business Administration option. This degree is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in a variety of business settings. The program includes courses in accounting, economics, finance, marketing, and management. Students also have the opportunity to complete an internship in their field of interest.
The AS degree in Enterprise Development with a Business Administration option is offered entirely online. This means that students can complete their degree from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. Designed for flexibility, the program allows students to work at their own pace and according to their own schedule.
To be eligible for admission to the AS degree in Enterprise Development with a Business Administration option, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Students must also submit SAT or ACT scores.
The AS degree in Enterprise Development with a Business Administration option typically takes two years to complete. Students can complete the program in less time by taking more classes per semester or by taking summer classes.
7. Waubonsee Community College
Average Net Price: $5,597
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Waubonsee Community College offers an online Associate Degree in Business. The program is tailored to meet their career needs with the aim of equipping students with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in diverse business vocations.
The program is made up of 60 credits, which are divided into general education requirements, business core courses, and electives. English, math, science, and social studies are the general education requirements that are included. Business core courses cover accounting, finance, marketing, and management. Business law, human resources, or information technology are the electives that allow students to focus on their areas of interest.
By being fully available online, the program empowers students to learn autonomously and at a pace that suits them. Lectures, readings, and discussion boards are online resources that are provided to the students. They also have the opportunity to meet with their professors and classmates online.
The online Associate Degree in Business from Waubonsee Community College is a great option for students who want to earn a degree in business without having to attend classes on campus. The program is affordable, flexible, and convenient. It is also accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
8. Rappahannock Community College
Average Net Price: $6,158
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Rappahannock Community College offers an online Associate of Arts and Sciences Transfer Degree in Business Administration Specialization. Learners who intend to pursue a business-related bachelor’s degree by transferring to a four-year college or university are the intention of this online program. The program can be completed in four semesters and requires 60 credit hours.
The curriculum for the online Associate of Arts and Sciences Transfer Degree in Business Administration Specialization includes courses in accounting, economics, finance, marketing, and management. Business law, business ethics, and business communication are the available elective courses.
The online Associate of Arts and Sciences Transfer Degree in Business Administration Specialization is a great option for students who want to get a head start on their college education. The program is affordable, flexible, and convenient. Students can take classes at their own pace and from anywhere in the world.
9. Western Nebraska Community College
Average Net Price: $6,376
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Western Nebraska Community College (WNCC) offers an online Associate Degree in Business. The program has been created with the intention of endowing learners with indispensable skills and expertise necessary for achieving success in the field of business, with the ultimate objective of granting them a competitive advantage. Accounting, marketing, management, and various other business-related subjects will be taught to students. Internships and other practical learning experiences will be available for them to participate in as well.
The online Associate Degree in Business is a great option for students who want to earn a business degree without attending classes on campus. The program is flexible and can be completed at the student’s pace. Day, evening, or weekend class options are available to students.
WNCC is a regionally accredited institution. The online Associate Degree in Business is also accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. This means that the program meets high standards of quality and academic rigor.
To qualify for the online Associate Degree in Business, students must possess a high school diploma or its equivalent. In addition, they should have earned a minimum of 12 credit hours of college-level coursework with a grade no less than “C.”
The online Associate Degree in Business typically takes two years to complete. Students can complete the program faster if they take are willing more than 12 credits per semester.
10. Atlanta Metropolitan State College
Average Net Price: $6,649
School Type: Public, Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Acceptance Rate: 100%
The fully accredited Online Associate Degree in Business from Atlanta Metropolitan State College actively prepares students for entry-level business careers through dynamic online learning. Students can tailor their education by selecting electives and proceeding through coursework at their own pace.
By actively engaging with an interactive curriculum, students build expertise in key areas like accounting, economics, marketing, management, and business law. Elective choices in topics such as entrepreneurship, project management, and business communication allow students to shape the program to fit their interests and goals.
Robust student support services like online tutoring, career counseling, and financial aid guidance help students succeed in the program. Upon completing the associate degree, graduates can confidently utilize their new business acumen to obtain positions in their field or transfer to pursue a bachelor’s degree.
With its flexible online delivery, customized course options, and supportive services, Atlanta Metropolitan State College’s Associate Degree in Business empowers students to actively drive their career aspirations in today’s dynamic business world. This affordable, accredited program equips learners with knowledge to make an impact.
Resources for finding acceptance rates and school rankings:
https://www.niche.com/colleges/washtenaw-community-college/
https://www.niche.com/colleges/cossatot-community-college-of-the-university-of-arkansas/
https://www.niche.com/colleges/carl-albert-state-college/
https://www.niche.com/colleges/arkansas-northeastern-college/
https://www.niche.com/colleges/clovis-community-college/
https://www.niche.com/colleges/bay-mills-community-college/
https://www.niche.com/colleges/atlanta-metropolitan-state-college/
https://www.niche.com/colleges/western-nebraska-community-college/
https://www.niche.com/colleges/waubonsee-community-college/
https://www.niche.com/colleges/cochise-college/
Resources for online business programs:
https://catalog.wccnet.edu/current/programs/apacct.php
https://catalog.wccnet.edu/current/programs/aabatr.php
https://catalog.wccnet.edu/current/programs/apboad.php
https://catalog.wccnet.edu/current/programs/apmngd.php
https://catalog.wccnet.edu/current/programs/apost.php
https://catalog.wccnet.edu/current/programs/aprm.php
https://catalog.wccnet.edu/current/programs/apscm.php
https://www.wccnet.edu/learn/accelerated-associate-in-business.php
https://www.cccua.edu/programs-of-study/online-programs
https://www.carlalbert.edu/casc-online-programs-degrees-and-courses/
https://www.carlalbert.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/AS-Enterprise-Development-676.pdf
https://www.anc.edu/degrees/online/index.htm#Associate_of_Science_-_Business
https://www.anc.edu/docs/degree-plans/2016-2017%20Checksheet%20-%20AS%20Business.pdf
https://www.clovis.edu/business/index.aspx
https://www.clovis.edu/degree-plans/AAS_BusinessAdministration.pdf
https://www.clovis.edu/degree-plans/AS_BusinessAdministration.pdf
https://www.bmcc.edu/about-bmcc
https://www.bmcc.edu/academics/academics/online-learning
https://bmcc.edu/business-administration-program
https://www.atlm.edu/downloads/Student-Guide.pdf
https://www.atlm.edu/downloads/program-maps/AS-Business-Administration-GuidePath-030121.pdf
https://www.atlm.edu/downloads/Academic_Programs/FT%20Program%20Map_with%20CoReq_Business%20Administration.pdf
https://www.atlm.edu/downloads/Academic_Programs/PT%20Program%20Map_No%20CoReq_Business%20Administration.pdf
https://www.atlm.edu/downloads/Academic_Programs/PT%20Program%20Map_with%20CoReq_Business%20Administration.pdf
https://www.wncc.edu/admissions-aid/how-to-apply/online-learning
https://www.wncc.edu/academics/programs-of-study/business-administration
https://www.waubonsee.edu/programs-courses/programs-subject/business/business-administration
https://www.waubonsee.edu/sites/default/files/docs/2019-11/BusinessAATransferPathway%2011-11-19.pdf
https://www.waubonsee.edu/programs-courses/programs-subject/business/business-administration/business-administration
https://www.waubonsee.edu/programs-courses/explore-all-programs?query=&sub=31&type=For%20Credit&loc=&all=false&ncpanel=false
https://www.cochise.edu/academic-programs#1600274005111-a8b85147-783c
http://cochise.smartcatalogiq.com/2020-2021/2020-2021-Catalog/Areas-of-Study/Business/Business-Administration-Associate-of-Business-Major-Code-BUSG