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In order to succeed in business, you will need a degree. One of the quickest ways to attain a degree in business and get to work is by completing a two-year associate degree or an accelerated option. These degrees are often found at your local community college, but they are also available online and from some four-year universities. Since an associate degree takes only two years, perhaps less with an online option, many current students see this as a quick way to get out of learning in school and into the real world and successful employment. This is true, but an associate degree, whether a business management or business administration degree program, will only take a graduate's career so far. It may be difficult to get into leadership positions with their corporate employers, but they can start earning experience and working toward their long-term goals. Keep reading to learn more about associate degrees in business administration.
PROS
A degree in business administration at the associate level comes with many benefits. During your online or on-campus education, you will learn the nuts and bolts of business (including academics in customer service, human resources, principles of finance, etc.), along with your general education courses. Once you graduate, you will have a solid foundation on which to build a long and successful business career.
One chief positive of attaining an associate degree is that you can complete the degree in as few as two years after you complete high school. Further, AA and AS degrees are often offered online and on-campus through local community colleges. Thus, if you live far from a four-year public school, you can still jumpstart your business career through online learning, without a lengthy commute or other inconveniences.
Another of the chief pros of an associate degree is that degree holders can command a higher salary than those without a degree can. Your knowledge and skills in the field of business also mean that you can advance in your career faster than if you were trying to learn on the job.
CONS
On the negative end of an associate degree program focused on business management or a degree in business administration, you'll find that, while it's great for getting started, you may hit a glass ceiling before too long. Two years’ worth of knowledge and skill only go so far. You may also find that you are ineligible to attain additional certificates. Even if you are an entrepreneur, you may find that banks prefer to loan to those with a bachelor's degree over those with a lower-level degree in business administration.
A two-year Associate in Business Administration also limits you in that, it's difficult to broaden your knowledge on the field of business in a brief two-year span. Your time will probably be filled with core curriculum and the few business courses you're able to take for your major concentration. When you move on to a four-year bachelor's degree, you'll see that there's more opportunity to add a minor concentration and gain a breadth of knowledge you don’t otherwise have access to. For instance, you could add a minor in accounting, marketing, or even economics to increase the scope of your knowledge. Ultimately, while a two-year degree is far better than no degree at all, it's a good idea for you to progress through a full bachelor's degree in business administration, business management, or a related degree in business in order to have the career you've always dreamed of. These degrees can be completed online or in other flexible learning platforms so that you needn't stop working in order to gain more education.
What are the Best Online Associate in Business Administration College Programs?
Atlantis University
Atlantis University is a very small school with a student body of just around 400 despite the fact that they are located in the city of Miami, Florida and offer certificates, associate's, bachelor's, and master's degrees. This private, four-year school strives to remain at the forefront of education as it offers students flexible, distance education for both undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as weekend and evening classes who want flexibility and the chance to learn in person.
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Tuition
- In-State:$10,800
- Out-of-state:$10,800
- Net Price: $17,413
- Retention Rate:92%
- Graduation Rate:94%
- Total Enrollment:399
- Undergrad Students:211
- Graduate Students:188
- Diplomas Awarded:9
- Student-to-faculty:25:1
Pennsylvania State University
The Pennsylvania State University's campus in University Park, PA is one of the nation's top public academic institutions. In fact, Penn State is considered to be an ivy league caliber institution. PSU's 76,000 undergraduate students are in pursuit of over 600 programs that include 275 majors, 200 minors, and 100 undergraduate certificates. The university also offers 20 associate degrees. Furthermore, since Penn State is a publicly funded institution, students have multiple campuses to choose from. If they need to spend time closer to home, they are sure to find one of the system's 20 campuses nearby. If not, PSU has copious offerings online. PSU's World Campus offers over 150 distance learning programs that lead to degrees or certificates.
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Tuition
- In-State: $18,450
- Out-of-state: $35,514
- Net Price: $25,548
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 73%
- Total Enrollment: 91,427
- Undergrad Students: 76,099
- Graduate Students: 15,328
- Diplomas Awarded:NA
- Student-to-faculty:15:1
Alaska Pacific University
Alaska Pacific University is a smaller college located in Anchorage, Alaska and has around 500 students total. This university boasts a low student to faculty ratio of 8:1 and has a graduation rate of 56%. Alaska Pacific University provides degrees at the Associate, Bachelors, Masters & PhD degree levels. They offer students a "Promise Tuition Grant", helping students attend Alaska’s only private, non-profit, fully-accredited university for FREE or less than what it would cost to attend nearly any other public or private university in Alaska or in the US.
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Tuition
- In-State: $20,760
- Out-of-state: $20,760
- Net Price:$20,944
- Retention Rate: 72%
- Graduation Rate: 56%
- Total Enrollment: 529
- Undergrad Students: 337
- Graduate Students: 192
- Diplomas Awarded: 7
- Student-to-faculty:7:1
Florida Institute of Technology
The Florida Institute of Technology is a small, private, not-for-profit higher learning institution founded in 1958. It is located in Melbourne, Florida, on the Atlantic coast not far from Orlando. Students can not only bask in the sun but enjoy small class sizes and a favorable student-to-faculty ratio of 14 to one. The overall student body consists of just over 6,200 students, including 3,600+ undergraduate students and over 2,600 graduate students.
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Tuition
- In-State:$43,246
- Out-of-state:$43,246
- Net Price:$33,313
- Retention Rate:79%
- Graduation Rate:60%
- Total Enrollment:6,022
- Undergrad Students:3,542
- Graduate Students:2,480
- Diplomas Awarded:NA
- Student-to-faculty:14:1
American Public University System
The APUS is a university offering only online or distance education to their 45,000+ students. Their headquarters are in Charles Town, WV, in the panhandle of the state. Students can earn an associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree from any of the school's nearly 100 majors. The largest departments are focused on business and management, computer science, and homeland security or law enforcement. The school boasts over 107,000 alumni despite only being established in 1991.
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Tuition
- In-State: $7,360
- Out-of-state: $7,360
- Net Price: $11,503
- Retention Rate: 87%
- Graduation Rate: 48%
- Total Enrollment: 45,249
- Undergrad Students: 37,335
- Graduate Students: 7,914
- Diplomas Awarded: 181
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Cleary University
Cleary University is a very small private institution founded in 1883 as the Cleary School of Penmanship and later incorporating a business school. The campus is Howell, Michigan, northeast of Detroit. This higher learning institution only enrolls around 600 students each year, and these students can pursue associate's, bachelor's, and master's degrees in mostly business majors, though there are also majors in communication, culinary arts, healthcare administration, and criminal justice.
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Tuition
- In-State: $22,230
- Out-of-state: $22,230
- Net Price: $18,457
- Retention Rate: 81%
- Graduation Rate:56%
- Total Enrollment: 610
- Undergrad Students: 462
- Graduate Students: 148
- Diplomas Awarded: 14
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Cardinal Stritch University
As a freshman at Cardinal Stritch University, you’ll be one of around 2,000 students. This is a private, not-for-profit university affiliated with the Roman Catholic church and you’ll spend your time here earning a liberal arts education. You may also choose a different major than religious studies and still benefit from the school’s emphasis on critical thinking and their 10 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. They may also earn an associate's, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree.
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Tuition
- In-State: $33,770
- Out-of-state: $33,770
- Net Price: $17,698
- Retention Rate: 60%
- Graduation Rate: 53%
- Total Enrollment: 1,896
- Undergrad Students: 1,248
- Graduate Students: 648
- Diplomas Awarded: NA
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Saint Francis University
Saint Francis University (SFU) is a small, private higher learning institution founded in 1847. It is located in Loretto, Pennsylvania, which is almost in the middle of Pittsburgh and Harrisburg and surrounded by nature and beauty. Over 80% of the nearly 3,000 students are enrolled as undergraduates. The university provides quality education with spiritual-based opportunities that welcome individuals from all faiths.
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Tuition
- In-State: $39,278
- Out-of-state: $39,278
- Net Price: $29,393
- Retention Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 63%
- Total Enrollment: 2,930
- Undergrad Students: 2,373
- Graduate Students: 557
- Diplomas Awarded: 2
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Immaculata University
Immaculata University is a private, four-year, not-for-profit institution in Immaculata, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1920, the school serves around 2,600 students annually. In addition to undergraduate majors in the humanities and sciences, students can enroll in master’s degrees and PhD programs in fields of study such as business management and marketing, computer science, education, health professions, psychology, social sciences, and more.
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Tuition
- In-State: $27,750
- Out-of-state: $27,750
- Net Price: $28,952
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 70%
- Total Enrollment: 2,479
- Undergrad Students: 1,503
- Graduate Students: 976
- Diplomas Awarded: 3
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
University of Toledo
The University of Toledo is a public institution founded in 1872 and located in the large city of Toledo, Ohio. Student enrollment is just under 19,700. Undergraduate students make up 79% of the student body (around 15,600 students) and graduate students number around 4,100. The student-to-faculty ratio is 20 to 1. Student's will have access to associate, bachelor's, master's, and private practice- and research-focused degrees, along with 1-2 year certificates, postbaccalaureate certificates, and post-master's certificates.
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Tuition
- In-State: $11,082
- Out-of-state: $20,442
- Net Price: $17,793
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 53%
- Total Enrollment: 19,694
- Undergrad Students: 15,568
- Graduate Students: 4,126
- Diplomas Awarded: 19
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
National University
National University is a private, four-year, not-for-profit educational institution with a total student population of over 18,000 and a student-to-faculty ratio of 16 to 1. National University offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctor's degrees, and <1-2-year, post baccalaureate, and post-master’s certificates. Students can choose from nearly 90 majors across a variety of departments.
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Tuition
- In-State: $13,320
- Out-of-state: $13,320
- Net Price: $21,363
- Retention Rate: 50%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 16,670
- Undergrad Students: 7,356
- Graduate Students: 9,314
- Diplomas Awarded: 5
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Monroe College
After more than 90 years as an educational institution, Monroe College has gone from being a women's business school to offering certificates, associate's, bachelor's, and master's degrees to a total of 6,500+ students across a variety of departments. This school has a solid student-to-faculty ratio of 16 to 1, an active student body, and 9% of students that come from international locations. The school also boasts an excellent 82% retention rate and a 62% overall graduation rate, which is better than the national averages.
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Tuition
- In-State: $16,536
- Out-of-state: $16,536
- Net Price: $12,330
- Retention Rate: 82%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Total Enrollment: 6,517
- Undergrad Students: 5,678
- Graduate Students: 839
- Diplomas Awarded: 179
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Northwestern College
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Tuition
- In-State: $18,475
- Out-of-state: $18,475
- Net Price: $23,851
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Total Enrollment: 618
- Undergrad Students: 618
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 14
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Franklin University
Franklin University is a small to mid-size institution located in downtown Columbus, Ohio with a student population of just over 6,000 each year, around 4,300 of which are undergraduate students and 1,700 are graduate students. Undergraduate students can strive to earn degrees in nearly all of the school's 45+ majors, while graduate students have options in a variety of departments including public administration, psychology, business and marketing, and more.
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Tuition
- In-State: $9,577
- Out-of-state: $9,577
- Net Price:$7,658
- Retention Rate: 47%
- Graduation Rate: 42%
- Total Enrollment: 6,031
- Undergrad Students: 4,261
- Graduate Students: 1,770
- Diplomas Awarded: 49
- Student-to-faculty:13:1
University of the Incarnate Word
The University of the Incarnate Word is a mid-size, private higher learning institution located in San Antonio, Texas, southwest of Austin. This school enrolls over 8,100 students and offers over 100 programs at the associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctorate levels, as well as post-master's certificates. The school was established in 1881 and has a retention rate of 73%, well over the national average. The most common degrees earned include business administration and management, registered nursing, biology/biologiccal sciences, psychology, and rehabilitation science.
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Tuition
- In-State: $32,286
- Out-of-state: $32,286
- Net Price: $23,041
- Retention Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 56%
- Total Enrollment: 8,175
- Undergrad Students: 5,368
- Graduate Students: 2,807
- Diplomas Awarded: 10
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
Saint Leo University
Saint Leo University has plenty to recommend it to students. First, the campus is located Saint Leo, Florida, near the west coast of Florida between the cities of Tampa and Orlando. Saint Leo also offers students over 60 majors options in various departments and degree options ranging from associate's to research-focused doctoral degrees, as well as <1 year and postbaccalaureate certificates. With these options, all of their nearly 11,000 students should be able to find something they are interested in.
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Tuition
- In-State: $24,640
- Out-of-state: $24,640
- Net Price: $19,818
- Retention Rate: 69%
- Graduation Rate: 50%
- Total Enrollment: 10,912
- Undergrad Students: 7,843
- Graduate Students: 3,069
- Diplomas Awarded: 67
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Chaminade University of Honolulu
Chaminade University of Honolulu is a private, small, not-for-profit institution founded in 1955. The school is located on the island of Oahu, one of the most visited islands on this well known island chain. An undergraduate population of roughly 1,600 students comprises 73% of the total student body. Less than 50% of all enrolled students are from the state of Hawai'i, though nearly all are from the US. Students will be able to pursue around 40 programs at several degree levels including associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctor's degrees, as well as certifications.
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Tuition
- In-State: $26,914
- Out-of-state: $26,914
- Net Price: $24,933
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 59%
- Total Enrollment: 2,167
- Undergrad Students: 1,572
- Graduate Students: 595
- Diplomas Awarded: 9
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
McKendree University
McKendree University, which was founded in 1828, was founded as the Lebanon Seminary and is still affiliated with the United Methodist Church. The student population is small, but not tiny, with total student enrollment at 2,200. Nearly all of the students are enrolled as undergraduates, with just around 500 enrolled as graduate students. The student-to-faculty ratio is solid at 14 to 1 and the retention rate is 76%, well over the national average.
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Tuition
- In-State: $32,200
- Out-of-state: $32,200
- Net Price: $20,869
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 54%
- Total Enrollment: 2,292
- Undergrad Students: 1,788
- Graduate Students: 504
- Diplomas Awarded: 3
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
InterCoast Colleges-Santa Ana
InterCoast College's Santa Ana location is an extremely small campus tucked away in Santa Ana, California, near Irvine and Huntington Beach outside of Los Angeles. Despite its location near a major city, the school enrolls about 20 students each year, all of whom are undergraduates. They offer these students access to majors in Electrician Training, Psychiatric/Mental Health Services Technician, Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling, and Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician.
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Tuition
- In-State: $22,550
- Out-of-state: $22,550
- Net Price: $24,606
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 89%
- Total Enrollment: 226
- Undergrad Students: 226
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 18
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Crowder College
Crowder College is a public, two-year intitution, with their campus in Neosho, Missouri. the school enrolls nearly 4,200 students each year, all of whom are undergraduate students. These students enjoy a decent retention rate of 66%, which is around the national average. The school was founded in 1963 and offers educational opportunities to mostly in-state students, with 7% attending from outside the state.
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Tuition
- In-State: $5,328
- Out-of-state: $5,328
- Net Price: $4,695
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 35%
- Total Enrollment: 4,401
- Undergrad Students: 4,401
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 63
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Madisonville Community College
Madisonville Community College is a small, public two-year school located in Madisonville, Kentucky. The students at Madisonville are offered courses in engineering, health professions, mechanic and HVAC technologies, and more. MCC does not provide graduate programs, but does offer students associate degrees and multiple levels of certificates. The school provides a decent, 14 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio for their 3,100+ students.
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Tuition
- In-State: $4,488
- Out-of-state: $15,240
- Net Price: $5,884
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 42%
- Total Enrollment: 3,737
- Undergrad Students: 3,737
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 22
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Western Nebraska Community College
Western Nebraska Community College was founded in 1926 and sits on a small campus in the remote town of Scottsbluff, Nebraska. The schools largest department is focused on health professions and related programs, but they also offer education in agricultural studies, business, education, mechanic technology, social sciences, visual and performing arts, and more. The school enrolls over 1,600 students each year and provides them with access to various certificates and associate degrees.
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Tuition
- In-State: $2,976
- Out-of-state: $3,000
- Net Price: $5,488
- Retention Rate: 56%
- Graduation Rate: 37%
- Total Enrollment: 1,722
- Undergrad Students: 1,722
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 25
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Davenport University
Davenport University is a small, private, not-for-profit university founded in 1866. It is located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Not only do they offer on-campus certificates, associate's, bachelor's, and master's degrees, but they have also been trailblazing in online learning for 20 years with their global campus and they provide other learning locations in campuses throughout the state. Students at the Grand Rapids campus can enjoy the 13 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio and a 76% retention rate.
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Tuition
- In-State: $20,260
- Out-of-state: $20,260
- Net Price: $18,333
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 52%
- Total Enrollment: 6,429
- Undergrad Students: 5,078
- Graduate Students: 1,351
- Diplomas Awarded: NA
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Johnson & Wales University
Johnson & Wales University has long been one of the most prominent educational institutions in both Rhode Island and the nation. The Providence campus became nationally known for its culinary arts program, on top of its business, health & wellness, engineering, and arts & sciences degree programs. For years, students flocked to their campus in Providence, Rhode Island where they became leaders in their chosen industries. JWU Online offers students degree programs at the associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels.
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Tuition
- In-State: $34,736
- Out-of-state: $34,736
- Net Price: $29,560
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 64%
- Total Enrollment: 6,695
- Undergrad Students: 6,123
- Graduate Students: 572
- Diplomas Awarded: NA
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
Bay Path University
Bay Path University is a small, private four-year college in Longmeadow, Massachusetts. The students at BPU are offered courses in business and management, computer and information sciences, education, health professions, psychology, and more. Bay Path not only provides undergraduate students with a place to begin their career path, but also offers an educational boost to those who are looking to move forward with master's and doctoral degrees. The school also offers a low student-to-faculty ratio of 12 to 1 for all their students.
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Tuition
- In-State: $35,781
- Out-of-state: $35,781
- Net Price: $19,177
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 60%
- Total Enrollment: 3,324
- Undergrad Students: 1,817
- Graduate Students: 1,507
- Diplomas Awarded: 11
- Student-to-faculty:12:1
Mount Vernon Nazarene University
MVNU is a relatively small, private institution that is associated with the Church of the Nazarene. The school offers some of their undergraduate and graduate programs online, as well as some study abroad options. Those students who attend in-person classes, of the 2,100+ student body, will find dorms and rentals available in Mount Vernon, Ohio. The school offers nearly 70 majors options across a variety of departments. The five most popular majors on campus are Business, Nursing, Education, Biology, and Engineering.
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Tuition
- In-State: $31,610
- Out-of-state: $31,610
- Net Price: $22,280
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Total Enrollment: 2,205
- Undergrad Students: 1,816
- Graduate Students: 389
- Diplomas Awarded: 1
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Mansfield University of Pennsylvania
Founded in 1857, over 165 years ago, Mansfield University of Pennsylvania is a four-year, public institution located in Mansfield, Pennsylvania - on the northern side of the state. It's a small school, enrolling just under 1,800 students in a recent year. They boast a good retention rate of 78% and 40+ available majors. The school also offers undergraduate and graduate degrees through their online learning platform and students can earn associate, bachelor's, or master's degrees, as well as <1 year or postbaccalaureate certificates.
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Tuition
- In-State: $10,660
- Out-of-state: $13,226
- Net Price: $12,010
- Retention Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 51%
- Total Enrollment: 1,649
- Undergrad Students: 1,634
- Graduate Students: 15
- Diplomas Awarded: 4
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Minnesota West Community and Technical College
Minnesota West Community and Technical College is a small, public, two-year institution within the town of Granite Falls, Minnesota. The town is quite remote, located next to a lake and not much else, but they do offer dorms for students and are about one hour east of Sioux Falls. The students population is under 3,300 and the student-to-faculty ratio is 20 to 1. In-state students pay around $6,000 each year for their education.
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Tuition
- In-State: $5,936
- Out-of-state: $11,236
- Net Price: $10,849
- Retention Rate: 59%
- Graduation Rate: 45%
- Total Enrollment: 3,421
- Undergrad Students: 3,421
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 14
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
Nyack College
Nyack College is a private, four-year institution located in New York, New York. Established in 1882, the school now offers some of their undergraduate and graduate programs online, as well as study abroad opportunities. The degrees earned by their nearly 2,100 students include associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. The most popular options include those in Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services; Theology and Religious Vocations; Psychology; Education; Health Professions and Related Programs; Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies; Public Administration and Social Service Professions; Visual and Performing Arts; etc.
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Tuition
- In-State: $25,500
- Out-of-state: $25,500
- Net Price: $18,349
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Total Enrollment: 1,981
- Undergrad Students: 1,028
- Graduate Students: 953
- Diplomas Awarded: 11
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Clarion University of Pennsylvania
Clarion University of Pennsylvania, located in Clarion, Pennsylvania is in a small, remote town about an hour and a half from Pittsburgh. This public, four-year institution, which was founded in 1867, is part of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE). The university has a total student body just under 4,500, with around 900 of those being graduate students and the rest enrolled as undergraduates. The school has a decent student-to-faculty ratio of 17 to 1 and excellent retention rate of 77%.
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Tuition
- In-State: $11,199
- Out-of-state: $16,078
- Net Price: $19,526
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 53%
- Total Enrollment: 4,700
- Undergrad Students: 3,773
- Graduate Students: 927
- Diplomas Awarded: 4
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Campbell University
Campbell University is a private, four-year institute established in 1887 and located in Buies Creek, North Carolina. The school has divisions in arts & sciences, pharmacy & health sciences, divinity, education, business, and engineering. This campus offers students <1 year and postbaccalaureate certificates, as well as associate, bachelor's, master's and pofessional practice or other doctoral degrees. The total student body is around 6,000 students with a decent student-to-faculty ratio of 15 to 1.
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Tuition
- In-State: $36,740
- Out-of-state: $36,740
- Net Price: $26,299
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 56%
- Total Enrollment: 6,185
- Undergrad Students: 3,980
- Graduate Students:2,205
- Diplomas Awarded:7
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Marian University-Indianapolis
Marian University's campus in Indianapolis is a four-year, private institution located in Indianapolis, Indiana, near the downtown area. While on campus, the 3,700+ students have a wide field of options for their academic focus. In fact, they offer 50+ majors for students to choose from. They also offer online options for some undergraduate and graduate programs. Available majors inlude those in business, education, health professions, theology and religious vocations, visual and performing arts, and more.
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Tuition
- In-State: $36,000
- Out-of-state: $36,000
- Net Price: $20,024
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Graduation Rate: 60%
- Total Enrollment: 3,519
- Undergrad Students: 2,405
- Graduate Students: 1,114
- Diplomas Awarded: 3
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Vance-Granville Community College
This campus was founded in 1969, so it’s been around for 50+ years and is is part of the North Carolina Community College System. The student population is just under 3,000 and they offer their students <1 year an 1-2 year certificates, as well as associate degrees in a good range of degree programs. There are 30+ majors options all together and the student-to-faculty ratio is 14 to 1.
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Tuition
- In-State: $1,948
- Out-of-state: $6,556
- Net Price: $4,261
- Retention Rate: 50%
- Graduation Rate: 40%
- Total Enrollment: 3,158
- Undergrad Students: 3,158
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 13
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
University of Northwestern Ohio
The University of Northwestern Ohio's campus is located in Lima, Ohio between Toledo, Columbus, and Fort Wayne, Indiana. This private, not-for-profit university offers its 3,000+ students access to cartifiates, associate's, bachelor's, and master's degrees. The school has the traditional classrooms you expect, but they also offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs to students through their online learning portal. It is organized into five colleges: business, occupational professions, health professions, applied technologies, and graduate studies.
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Tuition
- In-State: $11,550
- Out-of-state: $11,550
- Net Price: $17,578
- Retention Rate: 49%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Total Enrollment: 3,221
- Undergrad Students: 3,158
- Graduate Students: 63
- Diplomas Awarded: 15
- Student-to-faculty: 23:1
Rockland Community College
Rockland Community College's campus is located in Suffern, New York in the southeast corner of the state and near the border with New Jersey. The school was established in 1959 but now offers some online options for undergraduate programs. The school enrolls 5,700+ students and provides access to certificates and associate degree programs. The most popular majors include Liberal Arts and Humanities, Nursing, and Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Administration.
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Tuition
- In-State: $5,618
- Out-of-state: $10,728
- Net Price: $10,054
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 28%
- Total Enrollment: 6,532
- Undergrad Students: 6,532
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 60
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
College of Southern Maryland
College of Southern Maryland is located in La Plata, Maryland, which is a rural town south of Washington, D.C. The school has departments covering business and management, computer science, education, engineering, health professions, and more. They enroll around 6,200 students all together, all of whom are undergraduates. Located so close to D.C. and on the border with Virginia, the school offers a variety of opportunities for all graduating students, whether they earn certficates or associate degrees.
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Tuition
- In-State: $6,870
- Out-of-state: $8,820
- Net Price: $6,886
- Retention Rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 29%
- Total Enrollment: 6,351
- Undergrad Students: 6,351
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 16
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Laurus College
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Tuition
- In-State: $36,100
- Out-of-state: $36,100
- Net Price: $11,447
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 79%
- Total Enrollment: 878
- Undergrad Students: 878
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 20
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
South College
South College is a renamig of Knoxville Business College, founded in 1882. The school enrolls around 2,800 students each year and offers them access to certificates, associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctor's degrees. The school's largest departments are in nursing, allied health professionals, clinical/medical laboratory science, non-professional legal studies, grade-specific teacher education, accounting, and more. However, they offer over 40 majors in various fields.
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Tuition
- In-State: $16,975
- Out-of-state: $16,975
- Net Price: $11,654
- Retention Rate: 53%
- Graduation Rate: 30%
- Total Enrollment: 2,843
- Undergrad Students: 2,006
- Graduate Students: 837
- Diplomas Awarded: NA
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Copiah-Lincoln Community College
Copiah-Lincoln Community College is a small school in the rural city of Wesson, Mississippi. Despite its location far away from any major cities, it still enrolls around 2,900 students each year. The retention rate is solid at 67%, student-to-faculty ratio reasonable at 20 to 1, and tuition is very low, at around $3,400 for in-state students and $5,400 for out-of-state students; a good value for anyone. The most popular majors include Nursing, Biology, and Business.
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Tuition
- In-State: $3,180
- Out-of-state: $5,180
- Net Price: $4,875
- Retention Rate: 69%
- Graduation Rate: 51%
- Total Enrollment: 3,113
- Undergrad Students: 3,113
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 67
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
Coastline Community College
Coastline Community College is a very small to mid-size school with a student body of over 8,800. These students can earn<1 year to 2-year certificates or associate degrees in a variety of majors. This 2-year, public institution strives to remain at the forefront of education as it offers students flexible, distance education for undergraduate programs, as well as weekend and evening classes who want flexibility and the chance to learn in person.
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Tuition
- In-State: $1,160
- Out-of-state: $7,256
- Net Price: $9,105
- Retention Rate: 48%
- Graduation Rate: 31%
- Total Enrollment: 10,822
- Undergrad Students: 10,822
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 382
- Student-to-faculty: 36:1
Northeast Community College
Northeast Community College is a 2-year, public institution founded in 1973 and found far from any major cities, a full two hours northwest of Omaha. Despite being located in a remote town, the school serves around 5,100 students each year, all of whom are undergraduates. Students at this school can earn <1 year certificates, 1-2 year certificates, or associate degrees. Some of the degrees offered incluse those in Agricultural/Animal/Plant/Veterinary Science; Business, Management, Marketing, and Related; Computer Science; Education; and more.
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Tuition
- In-State: $3,750
- Out-of-state: $4,395
- Net Price: $8,813
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 53%
- Total Enrollment: 5,258
- Undergrad Students: 5,258
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 43
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Indian River State College
Indian River State College (IRSC) is an institution where students can receive a two-year or four-year undergraduate degree, or a similar-level certificate. Most students at IRSC tend to graduate with a two-year associate degree, so the institution is often likened to a community college. On the other hand, they offer regionally accredited degrees that can launch a stellar career as well as programmatic accreditation for many of their healthcare professional focused degrees.
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Tuition
- In-State: $2,764
- Out-of-state: $10,201
- Net Price: $3,878
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Total Enrollment: 16,942
- Undergrad Students: 16,942
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 39
- Student-to-faculty: 24:1
Virginia Western Community College
Virginia Western Community College is a public, two-year institution, with a campus in Roanoke, Virginia that enrolls 5,700+ students each year. These students enjoy an solid retention rate of 60% and a decent student-to-faculty ratio of 22 to 1. This campus was founded in 1966 and enrolls students from all over the state. The most popular degrees programs completed by these students include those in Liberal Arts and Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Business.
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Tuition
- In-State: $5,355
- Out-of-state: $11,358
- Net Price: $6,453
- Retention Rate: 61%
- Graduation Rate: 35%
- Total Enrollment: 6,303
- Undergrad Students: 6,303
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 74
- Student-to-faculty: 24:1
Lake Region State College
This college, located in Devils Lake, North Dakota in the northeast corner of the state. Lake Region State College was founded in 1941, over 80 years ago, as an extension of the public school system, and it is still a public institution. Student enrollment is nearly 1,800, with all of these students being undergraduates. There are 16 majors available in agriculture, business, electrical engineering, child care, foreign language, vocational or registered nursing, speech-language pathology, criminal justice, mechanic and repair tech, and more.
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Tuition
- In-State: $4,843
- Out-of-state: $4,843
- Net Price: $9,695
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 1,982
- Undergrad Students: 1,982
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 17
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Northern Virginia Community College
Founded in 1965 and part of the Virginia Community College System, Northern Virginia Community College is a 2-year public college. Located in Annandale, Virginia, not far from Washington, D.C., this institution of higher education provides an education for just nearly 53,000 students, with all of those students enrolled in undergraduate programs. The high attendance isn't a shock when you consider that tuition for in-state students is under $6,000 and their retention rate is 73%.
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Tuition
- In-State: $5,610
- Out-of-state: $11,693
- Net Price: $9,153
- Retention Rate: 71%
- Graduation Rate: 29%
- Total Enrollment: 51,822
- Undergrad Students: 51,822
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 882
- Student-to-faculty: 25:1
Cochise County Community College
Cochise County Community College District is a small, two-year, public institution established in 1964. It's located in Cochise County, unsurprisingly, though the main campus is located in Sierra Vista, Arizona. The school has a student population of 3,300+, all of whom are undergraduates. Students can earn <1 year certificates, 1-2 year certificates, and associate degrees in Agricultural/Animal/Plant/Veterinary Science; Business, Management, Marketing, and Related; Computer Science; Construction; Culinary; Engineering; Health Professions; Mechanic Repair Technologies; and more.
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Tuition
- In-State: $2,184
- Out-of-state: $6,240
- Net Price: $6,446
- Retention Rate: 66%
- Graduation Rate: 29%
- Total Enrollment: 3,672
- Undergrad Students: 3,672
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 23
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
West Kentucky Community and Technical College
This two-year, public college isn't too small, despite the fact that it was founded in 2003. The student body consists of around 4,900 students, all of whom are undergraduates. The student-to-faculty ratio is a bit high at 16 to 1, giving the student body a good opportunity to meet with their instructors if they have issues in their programs. The school offers <1 year, 1-2 year, 2-4 year certificates, and associate degrees, some of which are accessible through distance learning.
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Tuition
- In-State: $4,488
- Out-of-state: $15,240
- Net Price: $7,780
- Retention Rate: 69%
- Graduation Rate: 51%
- Total Enrollment: 6,327
- Undergrad Students: 6,327
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 28
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
Alvin Community College
Alvin Community College is a two-year, public institution that was founded in 1948, over 70 years ago. The student body is small to midsize, including only around 5,700 students. All of these students are undergraduates earning <1 year, 1-2 year, or 2-4 year certificates, as well as associate degrees. The student-to-faculty ratio is low at 12 to 1, giving the student body a good opportunity to meet with their instructors if they have issues in their bachelor's degree programs. Degrees are available in business, communication, computer science, education, health professions, criminal justice, physical sciences, visual and performing arts, and more.
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Tuition
- In-State: $2,834
- Out-of-state: $4,010
- Net Price: $10,596
- Retention Rate: 63%
- Graduation Rate: 30%
- Total Enrollment: 5,797
- Undergrad Students: 5,797
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 31
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Wayne Community College
Wayne Community College is a small institution located in Goldsboro, North Carolina, southeast of Raleigh and about an hour and a half from the east coast. Their student population is around 2,700 and those students attending from within the state pay only around $2,500 in tuition. They offer over 40 majors that can be earned as certificates or associate degrees. Several of their undergraduate programs are available through online learning.
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Tuition
- In-State: $2,524
- Out-of-state: $8,668
- Net Price: $5,900
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 48%
- Total Enrollment: 2,948
- Undergrad Students: 2,948
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 25
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
SUNY College of Technology at Canton
The SUNY College of Technology campus at Canton is a four-year, public university located, unsurprisingly, in Canton, New York. The student population at this small school is just over 3,200, with all students being undergraduates. The school offers students certificates that take less than two years, associate degrees, and bachelor's degrees. These degrees are available from a variety of departments and the most popular options include healthcare administration and management, corrections and criminal justice, business administration and management, registered nursing, veterinary or animal health technology or technician, and veterinary assistant training.
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Tuition
- In-State: $8,689
- Out-of-state: $12,619
- Net Price: $13,431
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 41%
- Total Enrollment: 3,223
- Undergrad Students: 3,223
- Graduate Students: 0
- Diplomas Awarded: 14
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Certificate vs. Associates
An online certificate in business administration is a great way to broaden your business opportunities. Certificate programs are most often offered to students who already have attained a bachelor's degree in any field plus some significant experience, often at least a year in a business environment. However, there are programs that admit non-degreed students on a non-credit basis. Non-credit options often require more experience for admission and since there is no college credit involved, you won't be able to apply your work toward a degree.
Thus, if you don't yet have an online associate degree, your best bet is to enroll in a two-year degree program and progress from that point. Your coursework will likely cover the same material as a certificate course, and you'll have college credit that will help when you move onto an online or on-campus bachelor's degree in business administration program. And earning a bachelor's degree in business will give you access to even more entry-level and higher opportunities, such as in international business, business policy creation, consumer research, as an executive assistant, customer service rep, or human resources specialist, etc.
What Online Business Administration Associate Degrees are Available?
- Associate of Science:
Generally speaking, an AS degree indicates that you have studied a STEM subject. Though Business is heavily math oriented, it also incorporates other elements from humanities. - Associate of Applied Science:
This degree places an emphasis on applying one's knowledge and skills to a practical purpose. - Associate of Arts:
An AA degree is one that is not in a STEM subject, such as Literature, Philosophy, History, or Political Science, for example. - Associate of Applied Business:
If hold an AAB, your degree implies that you have studied with the sole purpose of entering the workforce. The downside of an "applied" associate degree in business administration or any other field is that your credits may not all transfer. - Associate of Applied Arts:
This type of degree implies that the holder has placed a priority on job skills. An AAA degree might include coursework that does not transfer to a baccalaureate program.
Admission Requirements
Each Online Associate of Business Administration program will have its own admission requirements. However, you should count on showing a high school diploma and SAT scores. Generally speaking, a GPA of 2.0 and SAT scores over 900 will suffice for many programs. However, there are always exceptions and there are programs that will accept a high school equivalency certificate and/or significant experience in business or management.
One strong suit of many two-year programs vs a bachelor's degree is that they have great flexibility in their admissions standards and will provide you with opportunities despite shortcomings in the past. However, is it vital that you make sure your program is fully accredited and has a strong reputation in academia and your local business community.
How long does it take to earn an Online Business Administration Associates?
Most online associate business degrees take two years to complete. However, many students opt to take longer by not attending full-time. While it may be tempting to prioritize your work or home life over a degree, try to resist this temptation. The faster you can complete your associate degree, the faster you can get your career in to high gear. The short term sacrifices you'll endure for the sake of education will pay off once you've graduated. Further, the faster you can complete your degree the less likely you are to incur additional charges, such as tuition increases or the rising cost of books.
Potential Careers in Business Administration with an Associates
- Marketing Specialist:
In this job, you will work to promote your company's products and services in the most effective ways possible. Depending on the product, you might oversee television ad campaigns, print ads, or other approaches to your target markets. The average annual salary for this job is $51,400. - Operations Manager:
Your degree will help you oversee a company's operations as a manager. Depending on your company's business, you could manage all or part of a manufacturing process, warehouse facilities, or purchasing. Operations Managers command an average annual salary of $66,100. - Bookkeeping:
Bookkeepers are the core of business support. You will put your two-year degree to work ensuring that all incoming or outgoing funds are appropriately recorded for later auditing. You'll need top-notch spreadsheet abilities and a quick 10-key hand, but from this position you will find many opportunities. Bookkeepers earn an average annual salary of $43,500 - Office Manager:
In order for any business to operate smoothly, it needs an office manager. You'll need to be able to manage a budget, have creative solutions for the best use of office space and materials, and also provide a helpful and friendly face for the business. Office managers earn an average annual salary of $48,800 - Outside Sales Representative:
This general job description can apply to many industries. For each, you'll follow up sales leads, meet company sales expectations, and manage your current customers. Sales Reps generally work on a strictly commission-only basis, meaning that you must produce sales in order to earn a salary. Though earnings vary depending on your industry, sales representatives earn an average annual salary of $50,000.
Options to Advance
Once you have a solid foundation set in place with your online Associate degree in Business Administration, you will have more opportunities to advance than if you had no degree at all. However, you still need to pursue added schooling if you want to add more responsibility to your plate.
You should consider taking more business classes after you've graduated with a two-year degree. While your associate degree will provide a leg-up in the business world, if you continue taking courses on a part-time basis, you may be able to complete a business admin bachelor's degree in three years or so. Your employer might be able to help with tuition assistance and they might even reward your studies with bonuses or promotions, even before you complete a baccalaureate degree.