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The 19 Best Online Schools for an Associate of Science (A.S.) Degree in Business Management

doctorates in business

An Online Associate of Science in Business Management degree gives students the opportunity to gain subject-specific knowledge and understanding of the business environment.

An Associate of Science in Business Management is an undergraduate degree program that provides students with a general business background in areas such as financial management, business acumen, organizational behavior, and communication skills.

This degree program introduces students to the realities of managing day-to-day business operations while also increasing their proficiency in business strategy, business policy, and market trends.

Through this program, students learn the skill sets needed to pursue a career in business in the private, public, and non-profit sectors. Some academic institutions emphasize areas of business administration, like information systems, economics, and statistics.

Best Online Schools Associate Business Management - fact

With coursework that is delivered on web-based learning platforms, an Associate of Science in Business Management seeks to develop a student’s interpersonal and communication skills, project planning techniques, and business ethics.

All these skills are essential for landing entry-level business jobs and pursuing a bachelor’s degree in the same discipline.

METHODOLOGY

We researched reputable schools in the United States that offer an online Associate of Science degree in Business Management. Listed in random order, we highlight each of the school’s degree programs and their outstanding features.

Accrediting agencies have duly recognized the colleges and universities that made it to our 20 Best Online Schools for an Associate of Science (A.S.) Degree in Business Management.

We also provide a comprehensive overview of the online program curriculum, their courses, and class schedules, among other unique components, such as:

  • Coursework that emphasizes learning, enhancement, and application of business skills and knowledge for entry-level employment,
  • Quality instruction with a low student-to-instructor ratio,
  • Affordable tuition, as well as Financial Aid options,
  • Instructs in the skills used in business practices, such as accounting, economics, finance, information systems, and human resources, as well as management and leadership skills needed within the field,
  • Sharpens communication, critical thinking and problem-solving skills,
  • Offered through 100% Online learning format,
  • Trains in the innovative technology used in the field of Business Management in today’s workplace,
  • Has secured proper accreditation requirements,
  • Allows for easily transferrable credits into an online Bachelor of Business Management degree program.

Please feel free to check out our list of the Best Online Schools for an Associate of Science (A.S.) Degree in Business Management. In addition, please see our Methodology page for more information about our school selection process.


BEST ONLINE SCHOOLS FOR AN ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE (A.S.) DEGREE IN BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

Cambridge College Global

Cambridge College Global

Prominent Program Features:

Cambridge College Global features an online Associate of Science in Business Administration program that teaches students modern business approaches and introduces fundamental business models.

Students gain sufficient knowledge and enhance their decision-making, management, and critical thinking skills while doing business research and applying theories in the global business environment. With this associate degree, you can choose from different concentrations, including:

  • Banking,
  • International Business, and
  • General Management.

This program is perfect for working students seeking a good educational foundation to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Get the best mentorship and training from Cambridge College’s world-class faculty. 

Did You Know?

U.S. News and World Report awarded Cambridge College Global’s programs as one of the Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs. They’ve also received the same award for helping veterans finish their degrees with their online programs.


Pennsylvania State University-World Campus

associate of Science in business management

Prominent Program Features:

Pennsylvania State University, particularly its Penn State World Campus in University Park, Pennsylvania, offers about 125 bachelor’s and master’s degree programs online and various certificate programs in different areas of study.

One of its purely online associate degree programs is the Associate of Science in Business Administration, ideal for entry-level business professionals. Through this 60-credit associate degree program, students will learn how to communicate effectively, strategize with different economic concerns, and utilize the latest business tools. 

Making it to the best online schools list, you’ll receive more than just textbook education. Get to assess and collect significant information to solve business issues while improving your decision-making and critical-thinking skills.

Students have the opportunity to tailor their associate degree through a General Business track that consists of 18 credits and includes courses such as:

  • Basic Management Concepts,
  • Principles of Marketing,
  • and Industrial Relations.

This program will help you start your career in the business industry with positions in sales, compliance, and operations.

Did You Know?

Pennsylvania State University-World Campus is one of the best schools in the country, landing the 23rd spot in the Top Public Schools rankings. The university also excels in psychology, Graduate Engineering, and geology programs.


Dakota State University

Dakota State University

Prominent Program Features:

If you’re planning a career in the corporate world, getting an associate degree in business management is perfect for you. At Dakota State University, students can gain sufficient knowledge and skills in communication and leadership, which are needed to excel in the business industry.

The online degree program also focuses on business fundamentals like:

  • marketing,
  • finance,
  • and business law.

Additionally, Dakota State emphasizes introducing modern business technologies to produce world-class business managers and supervisors. You also have the option to continue your associate’s degree and earn a bachelor’s by transferring your credits. 

Did You Know?

Dakota State University prides itself on a diverse and active student body, which is made apparent by its selection of student organizations. You can choose from different academic and sports clubs, or if you’re all about school spirit, you can join the Trojan Ambassadors.


Purdue University Global

associate of Science in business management

Prominent Program Features:

Purdue University Global in Chicago, Illinois, offers one of the best Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration degree programs online.

The 90-credit program curriculum aims to prepare you for the business world by introducing basic accounting principles, refining your problem-solving skills, and learning different business theories.

Some of the required online courses include:

  • Managerial Accounting,
  • Business Law,
  • and Principles of Management.

Finish the program in 10 weeks through a flexible 15-hour coursework per week that’s perfect for working individuals. Best of all, you may use this associate’s degree to pursue Purdue’s online bachelor’s program to improve your business skills and knowledge further.  

Did You Know?

Purdue Global, Purdue’s online university, offers different benefits for the country’s active military service members and veterans, including free credit assessments, tuition reductions, and specialized degrees. The online programs are flexible enough so you can attend to your degree while in service.


Southern New Hampshire University

SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY

Prominent Program Features:

At Southern New Hampshire University, completing the online Associate of Science in Business Administration degree may help you land a high-paying job while opening up more opportunities like pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

Explore the basics of the management industry, test out different strategies, and learn business principles through this program.

Aside from enhancing your business skills, the 60-credit coursework also tackles a mix of general education such as:

  • English composition,
  • economics,
  • history
  • managerial accounting,
  • business law,
  • and marketing.

Best of all, you may attend to your online schoolwork anywhere at any time of day since there are no set times for lectures. 

Did You Know?

Southern New Hampshire University was hailed as the Most Innovative University in the North in 2020. This is a testament to the university’s drive to develop new technologies while providing accessible education.


Southwestern Community College

southwestern community college

Prominent Program Features:

Southwestern Community College in Creston, Iowa, features an online Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration degree program. This 68-credit-hour degree program offers coursework that introduces general business courses while instilling teamwork and critical thinking skills.

Students can choose from electives to cover specific business topics while earning more credits. It has an impressive online student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1 to provide the best online education to its students. With this program, you can pursue in-demand roles in various careers, including:

  • banking,
  • tourism,
  • and even start your own business. 

Did You Know?

The Southwestern Community College organizes an annual “Pay It Forward” Week where students can participate in different activities to reach out to communities in need. This program has been ongoing since 2009 and shows no signs of slowing down.


Thomas Edison State University

thomas edison state university

Prominent Program Features:

Thomas Edison State University in Trenton, New Jersey, offers an online Associate of Science in Business Administration degree program that aims to produce competent professionals in the business world.

The program focuses on functional business courses like:

  • financial accounting,
  • business law,
  • marketing,
  • and even information technology.

The 60-credit program also helps students understand the connection of business functions within the current global landscape.

Enhance your communication, critical thinking, and quantitative skills through hands-on projects like developing business plans.

Additionally, the university offers an Open Course program where students can take up free courses to satisfy most credit requirements. After taking the free courses, you’ll earn your credits by passing the prescribed assessment. 

Did You Know?

Thomas Edison State University has received countless accreditations in various fields of study from prestigious bodies like the Council for the Accreditation of Education Preparation (CAEP), the New Jersey Board of Nursing, and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).


Bay State College

Bay State College

Prominent Program Features:

Bay State College features an online Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration degree program that provides the needed foundation to handle all business areas. Learn the basics of business while developing a diverse skill set through:

  • economics,
  • accounting,
  • marketing,
  • and organizational behavior courses.

Aside from that, the 63-credit program curriculum also offers courses in business fundamentals, marketing, and economics. You’ll also be exposed to analyzing business data and creating presentations while developing your skills in public speaking. 

Aside from the required courses, students can take electives according to their interests and submit a portfolio for their respective entry-level careers. Students also can participate in an internship program to have a better understanding of the real-world business setup.

Being one of the top business schools for an associate degree in business administration, you’re sure to receive quality education and mentorship since the university has a low faculty-to-student ratio. 

Did You Know?

Bay State College started as a school that caters to the airline industry in 1946. Since then, the university has grown and diversified its educational programs by offering degrees in business, fashion merchandising, and information technology. 


California Coast University

associate of Science in business management

Prominent Program Features:

The California Coast University offers one of the best online Associate of Science in Business Administration degree programs that caters to students of various backgrounds.

Active military personnel, veterans, and military spouses have the opportunity to earn this self-paced degree program on a per-term basis.

Learn different business theories and their application through:

  • management,
  • marketing,
  • and business communications courses.

Aside from the core business courses, the 60-semester unit program curriculum also requires you to cover ten general education courses, like mathematics and humanities, and four elective courses where you can choose from forensic science, accounting, and personality theories.

Best of all, students have the opportunity to start at any time of the year since the school offers self-paced programs. 

Did You Know?

The California Coast University has continued to be a leading institution in providing distance education since its founding in 1973. It offers 100% online degrees for an affordable rate and easy installment plans. Located in Santa Ana, California, the university is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC).


University of the People

University of the People

Prominent Program Features:

The University of the People in Pasadena, California, has an online Associate of Science in Business Administration degree program, which helps enhance the skills of entry-level and supervisory individuals working in business and government.

The 61-credit program curriculum provides fundamental business education through:

  • Economics,
  • Entrepreneurship and
  • Strategic Management.

Students will also learn all about basic finance, leadership concepts, and marketing while enhancing their IT, writing, and communication skills in the business world. What’s more, students will receive guidance from program advisors throughout the whole degree program. 

Did You Know?

The University of the People is a tuition-free university, so you’ll only be paying application and assessment fees. Scholarships are also available to cover these fees through partnerships with different institutions, including Western Union, Hewlett Packard, and Intel.   


Central Community College

associate of Science in business management

Prominent Program Features:

If you’re looking into taking up an Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration degree, the Central Community College offers one of the top-notch online programs in the country.

The program aims to prepare its students for careers in business and those who want to take up higher education.

The program requires up to 65 credit hours, depending on your accounting or business administration specialization. You’ll also cover courses in:

  • ethical leadership,
  • communications,
  • and information technology.

Its student-to-faculty ratio is 14:1, so you’ll surely get the necessary mentorship to have a good foundation in business. Aside from providing 100% online classes, another reason to consider Central Community is its affordable tuition. 

Did You Know?

The Central Community College is home to the Central Traders, which has excelled in various sports such as basketball, volleyball, and softball. The university is a National Junior College Athletic Association member and actively competes with other schools.


Southern Arkansas University Tech

associate of Science in business management

Prominent Program Features:

Southern Arkansas University Tech in Camden, Arkansas, offers a comprehensive online Associate of Science in Business Administration degree program. The 61-credit hour program introduces courses in:

  • economics,
  • accounting,
  • marketing,
  • business law, and
  • statistics.

These courses will create a good foundation in understanding business operations and can be a stepping stone in pursuing a bachelor’s degree.

Get to learn relevant skills, such as critical thinking and communication, which are vital in pursuing a career in business. The university offers quality online education without the high costs. 

Did You Know?

The Southern Arkansas University Tech houses unique student organizations in advanced aerospace and aviation. The school encourages its students to be involved in student clubs to meet new friends and pursue their interests. 


Broward College

Broward College- cheapest online associate degree in business management

Prominent Program Features:

Broward College offers an online Associate of Science in Business Administration degree program, equipping students for various management and administrative positions in different industries. The school believes that getting an associate degree will help jumpstart your business career.

That’s why it offers a 60-credit program curriculum that features courses on fundamental business knowledge and skills, including:

  • computer literacy,
  • accounting,
  • business law,
  • and management.

The degree may be completed within two years through its online track. Additionally, students may choose to specialize in different fields such as Management, Human Resources, and Property Management.

Did You Know?

Broward College is known for its affordability and competitive credit rating. In fact, it has gained awards and has consistently been topping rankings for the inexpensive, quality education it offers.


Campbellsville University

Campbellsville University

Prominent Program Features:

Situated in Campbellsville, Kentucky, Campbellsville University offers a quality online associate degree program in Business Administration.

It’s considered one of the best online business schools in the country due to its affordable tuition and flexible online coursework. The program aims to explore different business strategies and overall enhance management skills.

The 62-credit hour program curriculum consists of 32 credit hours of general education courses and 30 credit hours of business core courses, including:

  • Accounting Principles,
  • Marketing,
  • and Finance.

Classes are divided into eight-week semesters and can be finished online. Furthermore, students are required to complete a three-credit internship, which will enable them to acquire hands-on experience in business. 

Did You Know?

Campbellsville University is home to over 30 clubs and organizations, making it a great school for student involvement. Get involved and pursue different interests in arts, sports, and academics. 


Miami Dade College

Miami Dade College

Prominent Program Features:

Pursue an online Associate of Science in Business Administration degree at Miami Dade College and learn the basic skills needed to take on managerial or supervisory positions.

This degree program provides students with diverse business coursework to prepare them to enter the workforce or pursue a bachelor’s degree in a related field.

The online program consists of courses in:

  • Financial Accounting,
  • Business Law,
  • Business Writing,
  • Public Relations,
  • and Management.

Whether you’re working or attending to your family, enjoy the flexibility of finishing your coursework anytime with this program. The courses offered are guaranteed to be at par with the ones taught on campus since you’ll have the same set of instructors.

It’s good to note that college credits from certificates in some disciplines are also accepted upon admission to academic institutions so you can finish your associate’s degree in no time!

Did You Know?

Miami Dade College offers over 300 academic programs ranging from different fields such as business, education, and health sciences. The school also prides itself in having modern facilities to introduce state-of-the-art tools in engineering and manufacturing.


Eastern Florida State College

associate of Science in business management

Prominent Program Features:

The Eastern Florida State College offers an online Associate of Science in Business Administration degree program that will surely fulfill your business education needs. The program aims to provide a competitive curriculum with a mix of business fundamentals and general education courses.

The 60-credit program includes courses such as:

  • Entrepreneurship,
  • Funding Acquisition,
  • Principles of Selling,
  • and Ethics.

Aside from covering the technicalities of business management, you’ll also learn the needed skill set to run your own business.

After completing this associate degree in 2 years, graduates may jump off into pursuing a bachelor’s degree in any public school or go for career advancement in various fields like Human Resources, Sales, and Marketing.

Did You Know?

Eastern Florida State College is full of student-centered events both on-campus and online. There are many celebrations, career talks, and fairs organized throughout the year. The college also has a virtual hub where students can participate in online tours and training. 


Florida State College- Jacksonville

florida state college jacksonville

Prominent Program Features:

Florida State College- Jacksonville in Jacksonville, Florida features an online Associate of Science in Business Administration degree program that aims to establish a strong foundation in the field of business.

Students online will primarily be exposed to different topics in the areas of business management, finance, and sales. The 60-credit curriculum includes vital courses such as:

  • Economics,
  • Marketing,
  • Public Speaking,
  • Project Management,
  • and Managerial Accounting.

During the final semester, students are required to finish a capstone course, which serves as their culminating project. With this, students will be able to apply all their learnings and showcase their acquired business skills.

Ultimately, the associate’s program prepares you for business and managerial roles or to pursue higher education. 

Did You Know?

The Florida State College- Jacksonville has recently received a grant from Florida’s Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) amounting to more than $3M. This will allow the university to establish a driving facility in Nassau Center that will focus on truck driving education.


Hodges University

associate of Science in business management

Prominent Program Features:

Hodges University prepares starting business owners and aspiring supervisors through its online Associate’s program in Business Administration. Primarily, the program aims to train students for entry-level careers in business and public service by introducing key business concepts and their applications.

The 60-credit program curriculum features basic liberal arts courses, such as Humanities and English Composition, paired with business coursework that includes:

  • Entrepreneurship,
  • Accounting,
  • and Management.

The business coursework also emphasizes improving one’s communication and computer skills for business. If you’re thinking about seeking a bachelor’s degree after, the university lets you transfer your credits with ease. 

Did You Know?

Hodges University is an ideal institution for veterans or serving military members who are interested in finishing a degree. The school has been vetted by many graduates and has received multiple distinctions over the years.


Saint Francis University

Saint Francis University

Prominent Program Features:

Saint Francis University has an independent online learning platform for distance education. Francis Worldwide offers excellent online programs for students planning to take up a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

Their online Business Administration Associate of Science program is also a top-notch choice for those seeking to jumpstart their business career. The degree program is specifically designed for career-oriented adult learners who want a flexible learning setup.

The curriculum focuses on most of the crucial business areas such as:

  • management,
  • computer science,
  • accounting,
  • and economics.

As a Christian university, all of SFU’s programs have a solid foundation in the principles of Franciscan Catholicism that complements its broad-based academic teachings in contemporary business.

Did You Know?

Saint Francis University was founded by Franciscan friars and started as an academy for boys. Today, the university stands as the oldest Franciscan college in the country and still embraces the values of service, Peace, and Excellence, instilled by its founding members.



FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the possible career options for an Associate of Science in Business Management degree?

associate of Science in business management

Start your business career with an associate’s degree in business management. Graduates can pursue entry-level positions like working as management trainees or business associates.

You can also go for a managerial role in the field of:

  • retail,
  • human resources,
  • marketing,
  • or business operations.

The world of business management is full of many opportunities. If you’re interested in finance, you can work as an auditing clerk, bank teller, investment officer, or sales supervisor.

How long does an online Associate degree in Business Management take to complete?

Online institutions usually require an average of 60 credit hours for an associate degree, which usually takes two years to finish.

The length of your degree would depend on the credit hours needed. However, there are also accelerated associate degrees that allow you to complete the programs in as fast as 15 to 20 months. 

What are the estimated salary ranges of potential jobs involving an Associate degree in Business Management?

associate of Science in business management

Depending on the employee’s designation, company, and location, the average salary of holders of an Associate Degree in Business Management may range from $54,000 to as much as $76,000 per year, depending on your degree and experience.

The average salary with an associate degree is $69,114. Here are some of the most popular potential careers and their annual salary ranges:

What’s the difference between a Bachelor’s and an Associate’s degree?

Primarily, both degrees differ in time and the number of course credits required to graduate.

A bachelor’s degree usually takes four years to finish with an average of 120 credit hours, while an associate’s degree takes half the time, with two years and 60 credit hours. In terms of courses, the associate’s degree introduces more basic business courses to create a good educational foundation.

On the other hand, a bachelor’s degree offers the fundamentals along with specific courses that will help have a deeper understanding of different markets and demands.

Depending on your career goals, earning a 2-year associate degree will give you enough business foundation and knowledge to pursue an entry-level position or start your own business. 

Is attendance checked during online classes?

Depending on the university’s online learning system, some universities still require students to attend online classes and stick to a class schedule rigidly. However, more online schools are adopting an output-based approach to online off-campus learning.

As a result, students won’t have to follow a class schedule since the course resources are usually readily available online. With this, students can study and go over the coursework on their own time. Students will be graded according to their project outputs, assessments, and examination results. 

What are the benefits of having an Associate’s degree in Business?

There are many, but here are a few to consider:

Increased Job Opportunities: Having an associate’s degree in business can provide improved job opportunities. Many employers prefer to hire individuals with some post-secondary business training, and an associate’s degree has become an industry standard.

Foundational Business Knowledge: An associate’s degree in business provides the foundational knowledge necessary to succeed in the business field. Students learn about finance, marketing, economics, accounting, business law, strategy, and operations that prepares them for the workplace.

Cost Effectiveness: An associate’s degree is a cost-effective route to an education in business. Most associate’s degree programs take two years to complete, and they typically cost significantly less than a four-year bachelor’s degree.

Flexibility: In addition to being cost-effective, associate’s degrees are also convenient. Many schools offer part-time and online programs, allowing individuals to earn their degrees without making extreme changes to their daily lifestyles.


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CHEAPEST Online Associates Degree Programs in BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

Rowan Jones
Chief Editor