An Associate Degree in Business Management provides a practical introduction to the core principles of business operations. Students gain skills in leadership, communication, finance, and operations while preparing for roles in supervision, administration, and business support.
What to Expect from a Business Management Associate Degree
This two-year degree is designed to equip students for entry-level positions in business settings or serve as a foundation for a bachelor’s program. Students study topics like accounting, marketing, management, business law, and economics. Programs are available online and on campus, offering flexibility for working adults and full-time learners.
Graduates can pursue careers in customer service, sales, human resources, retail management, and project coordination. Many programs also provide transfer options to four-year universities.
What You Study
A Business Management AA or AAS degree includes both general education and business-specific coursework. Here are typical areas of study:
Core Business Courses:
- Introduction to Business
- Principles of Management
- Marketing
- Human Resource Management
- Business Law
- Financial and Managerial Accounting
- Business Statistics
- Economics (Micro and Macro)
- Financial Management
- Organizational Behavior
- Project Management
General Education Courses:
- English Composition
- Public Speaking or Interpersonal Communication
- College Algebra or Business Math
- Social Sciences (e.g., Psychology, Political Science)
- Arts & Humanities (e.g., Literature, Music, Art)
- Natural Sciences (e.g., Biology, Environmental Science)
Some programs offer electives in consumer behavior, small business management, or digital marketing. Institutions like San Juan College and Keiser University offer concentration options in areas like Entrepreneurship and Office Management.
Program Duration and Format
- Length: Typically 60 to 65 credit hours over 4 semesters (2 years)
- Formats: Fully online, hybrid, or on-campus
- Accelerated options: Some schools offer 1-year fast tracks
Programs such as UC Online’s Business Management Associate Degree offer part-time, full-time, and multiple annual start dates for greater flexibility.
Tuition and Costs
Costs vary by institution but generally range from $6,000 to $25,000 for the full program.
- University of Arkansas Grantham: $305/credit, total ~$18,300
- Liberty University: $390/credit full-time; ~$23,400
- Miami Dade College: ~$7,093 total
Many schools offer financial aid, scholarships, and military discounts. Some states also provide tuition-free associate programs based on eligibility.
Admissions Requirements
Admission is open to high school graduates or those with a GED. Common requirements include:
- Application form (many have no fee)
- Proof of high school completion
- Transcripts from prior colleges (if transferring credits)
- Placement tests in math and English (may be waived with prior coursework or test scores)
Schools like American Military University accept up to 45 transfer credits, allowing faster degree completion.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
An associate degree in business management prepares graduates for roles such as:
- Assistant Manager
- Customer Service Supervisor
- Sales Associate
- Office Administrator
- Retail Manager
- HR Assistant
Salary expectations vary by region and job role. According to LCCC, associate degree holders can earn $23–37/hour in supervisory roles.
Graduates also have the option to transfer to bachelor’s programs such as those offered by Liberty University or University of Cincinnati.
Top Schools
Choosing the right associate degree program in business administration can set the foundation for a successful and versatile career in today’s fast-paced economy. Whether you’re aiming to transfer to a four-year institution or step directly into the workforce, the schools highlighted below offer diverse options tailored to different goals and learning preferences.
From flexible online learning and accelerated tracks to affordable tuition and specialized training, each program stands out for its unique strengths. Explore these institutions to find a business degree path that aligns with your aspirations, schedule, and budget.
| College/University | Program Name | Location | Delivery Format | Tuition (Per Credit or Program) | Unique/Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Arkansas Grantham | A.A. in Business Administration & Management | Little Rock, AR | Fully Online | $305 per credit (60 credits) | No application fee, self-paced, DEAC-accredited, strong focus on practical skills |
| Lehigh Carbon Community College | A.A. in Business Administration | Schnecksville, PA | On Campus / Hybrid | Affordable community college rates | ACBSP-accredited, strong transfer pathways, clear degree progression options |
| San Juan College | A.A. or A.A.S. in Business Administration | Farmington, NM | Online & In-Person | Low tuition, scholarships available | Dual degree tracks (transfer or career), project-based learning, 4 specialization options |
| Liberty University | A.A. in Business | Lynchburg, VA | Fully Online | $390 per credit (free textbooks included) | Christian perspective, 8-week courses, tuition freeze for 9+ years |
| Keiser University | A.A. in Business Administration | Clearwater, FL | Campus & Online Options | Varies by campus, financial aid available | No prerequisites, practical hands-on learning, career development focus |
| St. Petersburg College (SPC) | A.A. Business Administration Transfer Plan | St. Petersburg, FL | 100% Online | Not listed (consult advisor) | FloridaShines system for state-wide transfer, My Learning Plan for course planning |
| Houston Community College (HCC) | A.A. or A.A.S. in Business | Houston, TX | Campus & Online Options | Affordable, varies by residency | ACBSP-accredited, multiple campus locations, certificate stackability |
| Lone Star College | A.A. in Business Administration | The Woodlands, TX | Online & Campus Options | Low community college tuition | Strong administrative skill training, guided academic pathways |
| American Military University | A.A. in Business Administration | Charles Town, WV (Online) | Fully Online | $350/credit ($250 for military) | Monthly course starts, up to 45 transfer credits, electives in cybersecurity & more |
| Miami Dade College (MDC) | A.A. in Business Administration | Miami, FL | Campus & Fast Track | Approx. $7,093.20 total | Fast Track completion in 1 year, guaranteed transfer to Florida public universities |
University of Arkansas Grantham
https://www.uagrantham.edu/online-degrees/business-administration-management-associate-arts/
Little Rock, AR
A Flexible Online Degree for Aspiring Business Professionals
The University of Arkansas Grantham offers a fully online Associate of Arts in Business Administration and Management program that can be completed in as little as 24 months. With a competitive tuition rate of $305 per credit and a total of 60 credit hours required, this program is a budget-friendly option with no application fee. Students benefit from the flexibility of self-paced learning, allowing them to balance coursework with personal and professional responsibilities. The curriculum includes 24 core business credits and 36 general education credits, covering areas like business communication, ethics, legal issues, and modern business software applications.
Practical Skills and Career Readiness
Graduates are well-equipped with essential business competencies such as problem-solving, data analysis, and decision-making. The program emphasizes real-world application and is taught by experienced faculty who bring industry insight to the classroom. With DEAC accreditation, students can expect a credible and supportive academic experience. The skills gained from this program prepare graduates for careers in marketing, operations, sales, finance, and management or further study toward a bachelor’s degree.
Lehigh Carbon Community College
https://www.lccc.edu/academics/programs/business-administration-a-a-buaa/
Schnecksville, PA
Foundation for Transfer or Entry-Level Careers
Lehigh Carbon Community College’s Business Administration A.A. program provides a comprehensive starting point for students planning to transfer to a four-year institution or begin their careers in business. Accredited by the Accreditation Council of Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), the curriculum includes key foundational courses such as Principles of Accounting, Business Law, Economics, and Business Statistics. This program is designed to offer a seamless pathway to a bachelor’s degree in areas like management, finance, marketing, or accounting.
Clear Career and Education Pathways
This associate program lays out clear progression routes—from certificates in administrative or business management roles to bachelor’s degrees and beyond. Graduates may qualify for positions such as assistant manager or supervisor, with earning potential growing as they continue their education. With an emphasis on transferable credits and career readiness, the program is ideal for students looking to save on tuition while preparing for both immediate employment and advanced study.
San Juan College
https://www.sanjuancollege.edu/education-training/programs/business-admin-aa-aas/
Farmington, NM
Two Degree Options to Match Your Career Goals
San Juan College offers both Associate of Arts (AA) and Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees in Business Administration, providing flexibility depending on a student’s future goals. The AA degree is available online or in-person and is ideal for students planning to transfer to a four-year university. The AAS is designed for those seeking direct employment, offering specializations in Digital Media Marketing, Entrepreneurship, General Management, and Office Management. Both programs span approximately two years and include hands-on, project-based learning led by experienced faculty.
Career-Ready Curriculum and Affordable Education
San Juan College emphasizes real-world business skills including accounting, marketing, leadership, and CRM software. Students also gain practical experience with project management tools and decision-making frameworks. With low tuition rates and potential eligibility for New Mexico Opportunity and Lottery Scholarships, the program is a financially accessible way to build a strong foundation in business. Whether you’re aiming to enter the workforce immediately or continue your education, San Juan College’s business degrees provide the knowledge and skills to succeed.
Liberty University
https://www.liberty.edu/online/business/associate/business/
Lynchburg, VA
Flexible, Faith-Based Business Education
Liberty University offers an online Associate of Arts in Business program designed for students seeking foundational knowledge in business disciplines. The 60-credit hour program can be completed entirely online, with 8-week course terms and optional summer semesters for accelerated completion. The curriculum covers essential topics such as accounting, communication, business law, microeconomics, and international business. Emphasizing both professional competency and Christian values, Liberty integrates a faith-based perspective into coursework and instruction. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), and is taught by faculty with real-world experience.
Affordable Tuition with Free Textbooks
Liberty’s tuition is competitively priced at $390 per credit for full-time undergraduates, with discounts available for part-time and military students. The university has maintained a tuition freeze for over nine years and provides electronic textbooks at no cost, potentially saving students $800–$2,000 annually. Designed for flexibility, the program supports students balancing education with personal and professional responsibilities, while preparing them for ethical leadership and service in business settings.
Keiser University
https://www.keiseruniversity.edu/business-administration-aa/
Clearwater, FL
Career-Ready Business Foundation
Keiser University’s Associate of Arts in Business Administration provides students with a fundamental understanding of business functions, ethics, and communication skills. This 60-credit hour program focuses on preparing students for entry-level roles by offering practical knowledge across essential business areas, including management and quantitative skills. The program does not require prerequisites and emphasizes hands-on learning and professional development in a modern business environment.
Designed for Entry-Level Success
Keiser’s curriculum aims to cultivate key competencies needed for today’s workplace, such as professional communication and ethical decision-making. While specific tuition costs are not listed on the program page, students can consult with advisors to explore financial aid opportunities and determine the most efficient path to degree completion. The program is structured to support career transitions and upward mobility in the business world.
St. Petersburg College (SPC)
https://www.spcollege.edu/future-students/degrees-training/business/business-administration/business-administration-aa-transfer-plan
St. Petersburg, FL
Transfer-Ready Business Pathway
St. Petersburg College offers an Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree with a transfer plan in Business Administration, geared toward students planning to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business at SPC or another Florida university. This 60-credit program prepares students for roles in operations, compliance, and administrative services. Courses are strategically designed to match transfer requirements and support smooth transitions to four-year institutions.
Fully Online and Florida-Ready
The program is available 100% online and is part of the FloridaShines system, ensuring state-wide transferability. Students follow an academic pathway that outlines recommended course sequencing and elective choices tailored to business administration. With no specific tuition listed, SPC encourages students to consult their “My Learning Plan” and advisors to align courses with future bachelor’s degree requirements.
Houston Community College (HCC)
https://www.hccs.edu/programs/areas-of-study/business/business/
Houston, TX
Comprehensive Business Learning
Houston Community College offers both Associate of Arts and Associate of Applied Science degrees in business, with a flexible curriculum that includes certificates in specializations. The AA degree requires a minimum of 60 semester credit hours, including 43 hours of core education and 17 elective hours focused on the student’s intended transfer major. Students gain practical business knowledge and skills in operations, management, and information systems.
Flexible, Accredited, and Transfer-Friendly
HCC emphasizes flexible degree completion with credit transfer options for students holding previous degrees. The business program is accredited by ACBSP, ensuring a high-quality academic experience aligned with industry standards. Students benefit from faculty support, a diverse student body, and a curriculum tailored for real-world business environments. HCC offers numerous campus locations and online options to support student accessibility.
Lone Star College
https://www.lonestar.edu/programs-of-study/associate-of-arts-business.htm
The Woodlands, Texas
Academic Transfer Focus
Lone Star College’s Associate of Arts in Business Administration is a two-year academic transfer program designed to prepare students for a Bachelor of Arts in Business at a four-year university. Offered at multiple campus locations and online, the program includes a full suite of general education and business-focused courses that lay the foundation for future studies in business, finance, or management.
Practical Skills for Administrative Careers
The program provides a strong grounding in administrative skills such as records management, scheduling, and operational analysis. Students are guided through academic pathways that include recommended course sequences and prerequisite checks. The curriculum develops skills in reading comprehension, time management, and active listening—critical for roles in business support and coordination.
American Military University (AMU)
https://www.amu.apus.edu/online-associate-degrees/associate-of-arts-in-business-administration/
Charles Town, WV
Flexible and Specialized Business Training
AMU’s online Associate of Arts in Business Administration equips students with core knowledge in finance, marketing, supervision, and management. The 60-credit program is ACBSP-accredited and allows students to transfer up to 45 credits. Classes are offered monthly in 8- to 16-week formats, and electives are available in areas such as cybersecurity, homeland security, and emergency management.
Affordable and Military-Friendly
Tuition is $350 per credit, with discounts for military-affiliated students bringing the cost down to $250. Veteran and opportunity grants can reduce tuition further to $315 per credit. AMU’s flexible scheduling and career-relevant curriculum provide a tailored learning experience for working professionals and military members, emphasizing critical thinking, communication, and leadership in business.
Miami Dade College (MDC)
https://www.mdc.edu/businessadministration/
Miami, FL
Pathway to Business Leadership
Miami Dade College offers an Associate in Arts degree in Business Administration with a curriculum that covers accounting, business law, finance, and mathematics. This 60-credit program is designed for students aiming to transfer to a four-year college or pursue bachelor’s degrees in Supervision & Management or Supply Chain Management at MDC.
Accelerated and Affordable Options
With an estimated tuition of $7,093.20, MDC’s program can be completed in approximately two years—or in just one year through the Fast Track option. The college guarantees transfer to a Florida public university upon completion of the AA degree, and students receive academic advising to choose electives aligned with long-term business goals. The program blends foundational learning with real-world applications to support business leadership development.
How Long to Pay It Off?
Pursuing an associate degree in Business Administration is a smart investment in your future, especially with the range of affordable and flexible programs available today.
On average, tuition for these programs falls around $10,000 for the full degree. With starting salaries for associate degree holders in business-related roles typically averaging about $40,000 per year, paying off this educational investment can be quite manageable.
If you commit:
- 5% of your salary ($2,000/year), it would take 5 years to pay off your loan.
- 10% of your salary ($4,000/year), it would take 2.5 years.
- 15% of your salary ($6,000/year), it would take less than 2 years.
- 20% of your salary ($8,000/year), you could be debt-free in just 1.25 years.
These projections don’t factor in interest or additional aid like scholarships or grants—which could reduce your out-of-pocket costs even further. With so many low-cost, high-value programs to choose from, earning a business degree can offer a quick return on investment and a solid foundation for career advancement.