Online Schooling Options for Business Management

There are a number of online programs that offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in business management. Students interested in a career in business should carefully consider the program type, level of education and technical requirements of each program.

How to Select an Online Business Management Program

Award Levels

Online schools and colleges offer business management programs at the undergraduate and graduate level. The required level of study varies depending on the industry and the student's individual goal. Business managers have a bachelor's or master's degree in business administration, finance or management. A bachelor's degree in business is a great option for professionals who want to find entry-level management positions and work their way up the corporate ladder. Students interested in administrative service management positions might find a more open market with a bachelor's degree; however, as competition grows at higher level management positions, students are advised to obtain a master's degree in management.

Program Type

Online degree programs offer students a variety of enrollment options such as fully online immersion, low-residency (hybrid) or self-paced programs. Online immersion programs provide course instruction though video, e-learning modules, simulations, virtual labs and tutorials and generally don't require students to take classes on-campus. Students in full immersion online programs have full access to course material and lectures at any time of day or night.
Hybrid programs require students to spend at least part of the time on-campus and generally offer more hands-on training opportunities. Students who have had no prior experience with desktop publishing programs may benefit from classroom instruction. Some programs may also offer accelerated or self-paced study options that allow students to complete courses at their chosen pace.

Technical Requirements

Online degree programs require fast Internet speed to accommodate the transmission of large media files like video, live streaming and course materials. The regularity with which each course is updated requires students to have regular access to a personal computer to keep up with classwork and instructor feedback. Most online programs will provide online training to familiarize students with unique program features; however, some level of technical fluency is required to interact online.

List of Popular Business Management Programs

Online Bachelor's Degree in Business Management

Online bachelor's degree programs in business management require students to complete four years of undergraduate study. The curriculum includes a core of liberal arts courses in mathematics, history, English and communication before transitioning into subjects like business law, ethics, economics, finance and accounting. Specific courses in psychology and sociology are geared to help students address specific issues in global business, business communication and organizational behavior and management.
Online business management programs can be completed online, without on-campus attendance. Students move through the material at their own pace by viewing online lectures, demonstrations and assignments. Final projects typically include a research paper and online exam.

Online Master's Degree in Business Management

Online master's degree programs in business management are designed for individuals who have a bachelor's degree in business or a related field. The online master's program can be completed in two years during which students complete coursework in specialized topic areas such as information and analysis, strategic planning, human resources and leadership. Using online class material, students can communicate through bulletin boards, e-mail, chat and Web conferencing.
In order to complete the program, many schools will require students to gain hands-on experience during an internship or to attend on-campus training, lectures and workshops. To demonstrate competency in the field, students write a research paper on a chosen business topic and pass a final examination.