Online education has become a go to option for students looking to earn a degree without sacrificing their jobs, family responsibilities, or other commitments. Traditionally, pursuing a business degree, even online, has been seen as expensive, leaving many students worried about costs. There are affordable online business programs that do not compromise on quality. These programs offer comprehensive curricula, accredited degrees, and practical skills that prepare students for the workforce just like traditional programs.
The schools on our list have been carefully researched and compared across multiple trusted sources, including tuition data, program offerings, flexibility, and accreditation. What makes them special is that they combine affordability with strong academic standards. Choosing from these options allows students to save money while gaining real, marketable business skills.
If you are ready to take the next step in your education without breaking the bank, explore the five cheapest and most reliable online business programs we’ve identified.
Most Affordable Online Business Degree Programs
Explore the five most affordable online business programs below.
1. Western Governors University (WGU)
WGU stands out for flexibility and cost control. Tuition is charged per 6‑month term rather than per credit. The rate is US $3,830 per term. That covers all coursework for that term, regardless of how many courses you complete.
Because of this model, motivated students sometimes finish faster, which lowers the overall cost. Around 61% of WGU’s business‑degree graduates reportedly complete their degree in under two years.
The curriculum covers core business skills like management, communication, project and product development, and budgeting. The self‑paced setup makes it ideal for working adults or those balancing other responsibilities.
2. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
SNHU markets itself as one of the more affordable nonprofit institutions offering online business degrees. Tuition is roughly US $342 per credit hour for undergraduates. For a full 120‑credit bachelor’s degree, that works out to about US $41,040, before transfer credits.
If you have prior credits (for example, from another school or qualification), SNHU accepts transfers, which can significantly reduce total cost. Their business program is accredited (by a recognised body for business schools), and coursework touches on common business areas — useful if you want a broad business foundation.
For someone seeking a fairly standard online business degree, SNHU offers clarity: fixed per-credit cost recognised accreditation, and flexibility for transfer credits.
3. University of the People (UoPeople)
UoPeople tries to make online business education as affordable as possible. The model is “tuition‑free,” but students pay a US $60 application fee and a US $160 assessment fee per course. Over the full 120-credit program, the total cost works out to roughly US $6,460 (assuming no transfer credits).
Courses are fully online, asynchronous, meaning you can study on your own schedule. The program covers core business fields like management, marketing, economics, and accounting, and gives a general foundation for business careers or further study.
Because of the low cost and flexibility, UoPeople can be a strong option for students on tight budgets, working professionals, or those in countries where traditional U.S. degree costs are prohibitive.
4. Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville State University offers business‑related degree programs through its Broadwell College of Business and Economics. The school promotes itself as having one of the most affordable AACSB‑accredited business programs in the nation.
According to its published tuition table for online or distance‑education students, undergraduate online course fees are quite low per credit hour (for NC residents, much lower, and still modest for others) compared to typical U.S. private colleges.
The program offers many online and evening‑section courses, which makes it flexible for working students and those needing to balance study with other commitments. Because of its low tuition and accreditation, FSU can be a good choice for students looking for the cheapest possible path to a real business degree, especially if budget is a major concern.
5. Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw State University offers fully online business degree options through its Coles College of Business. Their online degrees are described as matching the same academic standards, content, and diplomas as the on‑campus programs.
Tuition for online undergraduate programs is relatively low compared with many private or for-profit institutions. Estimates in a recent cost-of-attendance breakdown show a modest tuition figure for online students.
The online business program offers flexibility and convenience; it’s designed to suit working students or people who need to study at their own pace. Courses are taught by the same faculty who teach on campus. The program includes standard business curricula and at least basic accreditation.
Scholarships and Financial Aid for Online Business Degrees
Even affordable online programs often offer additional financial support to reduce costs. Many schools provide merit-based scholarships, need-based aid, and military or employee tuition discounts. University of the People offers tuition-free education with minimal assessment fees, and some schools like SNHU and WGU provide scholarships for online learners, veterans, and adult learners.
Federal student aid, private grants, and low-interest loans are also options for U.S. students. These opportunities can make a noticeable difference in overall cost, especially if you combine tuition savings with external scholarships. Applying early and checking eligibility requirements ensures you don’t miss out on aid.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Affordable Online Business Degrees
1. Are online business degrees as respected as traditional ones?
Yes, as long as the program is accredited. Employers often value the degree itself and the skills you demonstrate, not just the format.
2. Can I complete an online business degree while working full-time?
Absolutely. Most programs, like WGU or UoPeople, are designed for flexible, self-paced learning to accommodate working students.
3. What careers can I pursue with an online business degree?
Graduates can work in management, marketing, accounting, finance, entrepreneurship, human resources, or pursue further studies like an MBA.
4. Do online degrees require in-person exams?
Most programs are fully online, but some may require online proctored exams or occasional local testing centers. Always check program requirements.
5. How fast can I finish an online business degree?
It depends on the school and your pace. Competency-based programs like WGU allow motivated students to finish in under two years, while traditional programs typically take four years.