Online Business Degrees and Certificate Programs

No matter your interests, Purdue Global’s business programs will help you build in-demand skills that set you apart in a competitive work environment. From accounting to finance to management, all our programs are constantly updated to remain at the cutting edge.

Choose from online programs at the certificate, associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s levels. With courses taught by faculty who are practicing professionals in their fields, you can experience first-hand how to apply what you learn in class to the real world. And because you can attend class wherever you have internet, it’s easy to create a study schedule that leaves plenty of time for your job and family.

See Notes and Conditions below for important information.

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Online Accounting Programs

The accounting field offers outstanding opportunities for growth. Professional accountants or auditors are crucial to an organization’s success—across every industry. In this career, you’ll develop and examine financial records, prepare taxes and provide fiscal advice.

Focus on accounting theories and principles, learn to communicate effectively and network with people from all walks of business and prepare for a variety of entry-level opportunities.

COURSE EFFORT
15–18 hrs/week
CREDITS REQUIRED
90
AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
2 years

    Courses cover accounting principles including new tax laws, financial statements, balance sheets, asset management, inventory analysis accounting software and cost-volume-profit analysis.

    COURSE EFFORT
    15–18 hrs/week
    CREDITS REQUIRED
    180
    AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
    4 years
    • Tax Accountancy
    • Managerial Accountancy
    • Auditing/Forensic Accountancy
    • Public Accountancy

    Explore key accounting areas including accounting and financial reporting systems, business law, auditing techniques and cost accounting.

    COURSE EFFORT
    20 hrs/week
    CREDITS REQUIRED
    16
    AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
    7 months

      Develop the accounting skills and expertise, build relevant job proficiencies, gain a valuable professional credential and prepare for additional industry certifications.

      COURSE EFFORT
      20 hrs/week
      CREDITS REQUIRED
      52
      AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
      1.5 years
      • Public Accounting CPA Track
      • Private/Corporate Accounting CMA Track
      • Tax

      Online Business Administration Programs

      Fast-paced businesses require specialists to keep day-to-day operations running smoothly. By earning a degree in business administration online at Purdue Global, you’ll sharpen your managerial skills and become a more effective leader. Choose from associate, bachelor's, or master's programs—and then specialize your business skills by choosing an in-program degree concentration.

      Focus on theories and principles relevant to the functions in business and management and prepare to establish your position in a wide range of fields.

      COURSE EFFORT
      15–18 hrs/week
      CREDITS REQUIRED
      90
      AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
      2 years
      • Business
      • Customer Service
      • Entrepreneurship
      • Health Club Operations
      • Hospitality and Tourism Services
      • Information Processing
      • Office Management
      • Retail Management
      • Sales
      • Small Business Management
      • Sport Entertainment Management

      Gain the knowledge, technical skills and decision-making abilities to prepare for a wide range of career paths. Gain more control over how you learn with ExcelTrack™, our competency-based option.

      COURSE EFFORT
      15–18 hrs/week
      CREDITS REQUIRED
      180
      AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
      4 years
      • Aviation Management
      • Business Development
      • Construction Management
      • Financial Analysis
      • Digital and Social Media Management
      • FinTech
      • Global Marketing Management
      • Hospitality Sustainability
      • Human Resources
      • Information System Management
      • Management
      • Procurement
      • Project Management
      • Real Estate
      • Sport Entertainment Management
      • Supply Chain Management and Logistics
      • Wealth Management and Financial Planning

      Earn the same BS in Business Administration degree, but faster and for less tuition. If you have a lot of college credit or experience in the field, and are motivated to learn independently, choose our self-paced ExcelTrack™ option.

      COURSE EFFORT
      You Control Your Pace
      CREDITS REQUIRED
      180
      COURSE LENGTH
      10-Week Terms

        Earn the same MBA degree, but faster and for less tuition. If you have a lot of college credit or experience in the field, and are motivated to learn independently, choose our self-paced ExcelTrack™option.

        COURSE EFFORT
        You Control Your Pace
        CREDITS REQUIRED
        60–76
        COURSE LENGTH
        6-Week Sessions

          Develop real-world skills to pursue leadership and management positions in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Gain more control over how you learn with ExcelTrack™, our competency-based option.

          COURSE EFFORT
          20 hrs/week
          CREDITS REQUIRED
          60–76
          AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
          2.5 years
          • Project Management
          • Information Technology
          • Human Resources
          • Health Care Management
          • Finance
          • Global Business
          • Marketing

          Online Finance Programs

          The field of finance is constantly evolving. In recent years, with technological developments, the demand for highly qualified professionals has increased. Set yourself apart with deep knowledge of trends and emerging markets. Purdue Global offers concentrations in areas that align with your career goals.

          Gain knowledge in areas such as fiscal planning, corporate finance, banking, economic markets and investment management, and learn practical techniques by solving real-world financial problems.

          COURSE EFFORT
          15–18 hrs/week
          CREDITS REQUIRED
          180
          AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
          4 years
          • General Finance
          • FinTech
          • Real Estate
          • Wealth Management and Financial Planning

          Develop advanced technical knowledge and skills in all areas of the diversified field of finance, from corporate finance, to investment management, to banking and beyond.

          COURSE EFFORT
          20 hrs/week
          CREDITS REQUIRED
          56
          AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
          2 years
          • Financial Analysis
          • Financial Planning
          • Treasury Management

          Online Human Resources Programs

          By earning a postbaccalaureate or graduate certificate 100% online, you’ll build your HR expertise without earning another degree–in less time and for less money. Study at your own pace and explore relevant topics such as employment and labor law, talent development and recruitment and assessment models.

          This certificate program includes four courses focused on subjects such as employment and labor law, talent development and recruitment and assessment models.

          COURSE EFFORT
          20 hrs/week
          CREDITS REQUIRED
          16
          AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
          7 months

            Explore the topics of employee recruitment, training and development, compensation and reward systems and employment law. Gain a valuable credential and prepare for industry certifications.

            COURSE EFFORT
            15–18 hrs/week
            CREDITS REQUIRED
            30
            AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
            8 months

              Online Management Programs

              Stand out in today’s global business environment with effective management strategies. Expand your leadership and administration skills, become a more valued employee and be prepared to take your career to the next level.

              This program prepares you for management-level positions. You'll learn crucial skills in areas such as budgeting, operations, and supervision, and become more competitive in the job market.

              COURSE EFFORT
              15–18 hrs/week
              CREDITS REQUIRED
              180
              AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
              4 years
              • Business Development
              • Construction Management
              • Decision Management
              • Financial Analysis
              • Global Business
              • Global Marketing Management
              • Hospitality Sustainability
              • Human Resources
              • Information Systems Management
              • Leadership
              • Management
              • Project Management
              • Sport Entertainment Management
              • Supply Chain Management and Logistics

              Purdue Global provides you with rigorous training, including assignments, reports, presentations and group projects, all designed to help develop your leadership skills.

              COURSE EFFORT
              20 hrs/week
              CREDITS REQUIRED
              56
              AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
              2 years
              • Project Management
              • Leadership
              • Information Technology
              • Human Resources
              • Health Care Management
              • Global Business
              • Organizational Design and Development

              Online Project Management Programs

              Be prepared for a multifaceted management career as a project manager. Learn how to plan, organize and manage resources for business projects, from initiation all the way through completion.

              Study project initiation, project planning and execution, project cost and scheduling, and project risk, quality and assessment. Gain a valuable credential and prepare for industry certifications.

              COURSE EFFORT
              20 hrs/week
              CREDITS REQUIRED
              16
              AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
              7 months

                Business Program Accreditation

                ACBSP Accreditation

                Accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) may be a deciding factor when you apply for MBA or other postgraduate programs. Learn more about Purdue Global's online business degree programs accredited by the ACBSP.

                ACBSP Logo

                SHRM Acknowledgement

                The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) has acknowledged that Purdue Global's human resources concentration in the Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Management, and Bachelor of Science in Business Administration programs align with the SHRM’s HR Curriculum Guidebook and Templates.

                SHRM Aligned Badge

                What Are the Admissions Requirements?

                To get started as a Purdue Global student, you must meet certain academic requirements and complete an enrollment application. Here’s what you’ll need to begin:

                Admissions for Undergraduate Programs

                • GED or high school diploma for associate's and bachelor's degrees

                Admissions for Graduate Programs

                • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university for master's degrees and certificate programs
                • The master’s degree in accounting, finance, or management requires a bachelor’s degree in the field of business from an accredited college or university or 45 credit hours of undergraduate coursework across the ACBSP's Common Professional Components (CPC). The Master of Science in Finance also requires foundational coursework in finance

                Want to know if online learning is right for you before you enroll? Watch our virtual campus tour to learn more.

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                Understanding Your Investment

                How long? How much? These are important questions! Try our online Calculator to estimate when you’ll finish and see how your prior credits and experience can save you time and money.

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                Ready to Enroll?

                Purdue Global makes the process easy. You can apply online today (self-guided) or contact us to walk you through the process.

                Upcoming Start Dates

                We offer rolling start dates throughout the year. Choose the one that works best for your schedule.

                Which Program Is Right for You?

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                Discover your interests and set your goals for success. Take our Career Assessment to chart your ideal path.

                Take 3 Weeks to Get to Know Us

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                Start an undergraduate program with no financial obligation and no cost to apply.

                Business Program Resources

                Explore your business career goals and options, and choose the program that’s right for you. 

                By equipping you with vital skills, a business administration degree can increase your growth potential in a range of careers.

                A degree in finance can prepare you with the foundational skills for a career in business, financial management, financial planning, and more.

                An MBA helps you develop key knowledge and abilities relevant to all business disciplines, while an MSML focuses on specialized management and leadership skills.

                Undergraduate Business Programs

                Why choose Purdue Global for your associate’s or bachelor’s degree in business?

                Graduate Business Programs

                Explore the benefits of earning a master’s degree or certificate at Purdue Global.

                Learn from Faculty With Deep Experience

                Featured Faculty—Steven Cates

                Steven Cates Headshot

                A graduate professor in the School of Business and Information Technology, Steven Cates also works to continually create and revise graduate courses. He has worked at several Fortune 100 organizations and has authored over 100 publications in the field of HR management and marketing.

                 [Employers] need to provide reasons why great talent will want to work for them. This must be a long standing and constant commitment that is directly connected to the marketing philosophy and central to the corporate mission, so both prospective customers and prospective employees can translate and understand these messages. 

                Frequently Asked Questions

                • Yes, you can absolutely earn a business degree online.

                  Whether you choose a traditional classroom setting or an online one, all business degree programs have certain requirements and a number of required hours. Regardless of your particular interests, a business program can equip you with new skills and help you advance your career.

                  Attending an online business degree program has unique advantages—especially if you already have a career. You won’t have to commute to a campus. You won’t have to quit your job. And you can attend class whenever it’s most convenient for you—from late night hours to the early morning. This flexibility in itself is one of the main reasons why people opt for online learning, not to mention the money you’ll save.

                  Many programs in our School of Business and Information Technology have received programmatic accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), meaning that they meet the standards set for teaching excellence and continuous quality improvement.

                  Our business school curriculum equips you with the ideal blend of soft and hard skills. At Purdue Global, we combine theory and practice so that students benefit not only in the short term with immediate career application, but also in the long term with continued success. We emphasize a hands-on approach so that you can apply what you learn in the real world.

                  In our curriculum, you’ll study the fundamentals of business (e.g., decision-making, managing human capital, strategy, process, logistics and technology) and learn professional strategies (e.g., developing skills in networking, negotiation, leadership, professionalism, teamwork, personal branding, coaching and mentoring). Our courses are designed and taught by professors with firsthand knowledge in their areas of expertise–so you’ll always be learning from experts in your field.

                  Furthermore, you’ll become competitive in the global job market, learning how to cultivate relationships across cultures and how to make an impact in emerging markets around the world.

                  Our School of Business and Information Technology also offers opportunities to network and interact with fellow students and faculty members through special events and course activities. We offer a variety of clubs and honors societies, including prestigious groups such as Ambassadors and Leaders, Golden Key, International Honour Society, and the Business and Management Student Association.

                  Purdue Global does not guarantee employment placement or career advancement. Actual outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience and opportunities for employment.

                  See Notes and Conditions for important information.

                • Business is a vast field with many subject areas. When considering a program, it can help to review your goals with yourself and the potential outcomes of a particular degree. Are you looking to enter into the field of business? Do you already have a career and are looking to make a shift? Are you aiming for a leadership role? Once you can define for yourself where your objectives lie, you’ll be able to more easily choose the field that’s right for you.

                  The different levels of business degrees offered by Purdue Global include the following:

                  • Associate: An associate degree qualifies you for entry-level jobs and typically takes two years to complete. We offer associate degrees in accounting and business administration.
                  • Bachelor’s: A bachelor's degree is designed to provide you with a more well-rounded education. It sets you up with practical skills for the job market and gets you on a career path. We offer bachelor’s degrees in accounting, business administration, finance, and organizational management.
                  • Master’s: A master's degree can help you advance your career. We offer master’s degrees in accounting, business administration, finance, and management and leadership.
                  • Certificates: Certificates are shorter-term credentials that will often transfer in for master's degree credits. Certificate programs offered by Purdue Global include accounting graduate, human resources graduate, human resources postbaccalaureate, and project management graduate.

                  See Notes and Conditions for important information.

                • Many of Purdue Global’s online business degrees are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Accredited online business school programs must pass a rigorous qualification process. In particular, ACBSP’s standards align with the Baldrige National Quality Program, a performance award program that sets high standards for and recognizes excellence in various types of educational programs.

                  By earning accreditation, Purdue Global’s School of Business and Information Technology has been deemed worthy of the standards of business education.

                  The following Purdue Global School of Business and Information Technology programs are accredited by the ACBSP:

                  The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) has acknowledged that the following programs with human resources concentrations align with the SHRM HR Curriculum Guidebook and Templates: Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Management and Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. SHRM is the world’s largest association devoted to human resource management. The Society serves the needs of HR professionals and advances the interests of the HR profession. Founded in 1948, SHRM has more than 250,000 members in over 140 countries and more than 575 affiliated chapters.

                  As an institution, Purdue Global is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

                  Additionally, Purdue Global’s Master of Science in Finance with a concentration in financial planning is a CFP Board-Registered Program in financial planning education. That means the program meets specific criteria for educating individuals who wish to fulfill the education component for obtaining CFP® certification. Individuals who meet CFP Board’s education requirement are eligible to sit for the CFP® Certification Examination.* Successful completion of the education and examination components completes two of the core prerequisites to obtain CFP® certification.

                  CFP® Certification: Purdue Global does not certify individuals to use CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM, and marks. CFP certification is granted solely by Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. to individuals who, in addition to completing an educational requirement, have met its ethics, experience, and examination requirements.

                  CFP® Exam: Certain finance positions may require further certification and/or licensing by individual states. This program was not designed to meet any specific state’s requirements for licensure or certification, and Purdue Global makes no representations or warranties as to whether the degree or any individual courses meet such requirements. Refer to the University Catalog for additional information.

                • The length of time it takes to complete your business degree depends on the type of degree you’re studying for and your previous experience. Many students enroll at Purdue Global with a range of prior learning credits and experiences. Our student body includes everyone from professionals looking to advance their careers to career-changers who are new to the business field. To make things easy, we provide a graduation date calculator to help you determine your expected graduation date based on your unique situation.

                  Depending on the degree, average completion times vary from student to student—but here are some sample degree completion time estimates (based on full time study):

                  • MBA: 2.5 years
                  • MS in Accounting: 1.5 years
                  • MS in Management: 2 years
                  • MS in Finance: 2 years
                  • Undergraduate business programs take an average of 4 years.

                  For weekly time commitments, we estimate Purdue Global students should plan for the following:

                  • For students enrolled in 10-week terms: ~15–18 hours per week, per course
                  • For students enrolled in 12-week terms: ~20–25 hours per week, per course

                  (These estimates include time spent in the online classroom in addition to offline study. Advanced courses may require additional time.)

                  We offer various ways to shorten your path to a business degree. For example, you can gain entry into a shortened version of Purdue Global's MBA by earning a minimum course grade in select bachelor's degree courses. That means you can complete both your bachelor's degree and master's degree in less time—and at a lower cost than completing both programs separately. Additionally, we offer two competency-based business degree programs: ExcelTrack™ Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and an ExcelTrack™ MBA program.

                  And, if you’re looking to get a head start on your master’s degree, our certificate programs could be an excellent option for you. They’re shorter in length and can help you make an immediate impact on your career. For example, you can earn your project management certificate or HR Certificate (graduate and postbaccalaureate) in just 8 months of full-time study. Qualified credits can apply toward certain Purdue Global master's degree programs.

                  See Notes and Conditions for important information.

                • Business is a growing field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in business and financial operations occupations are expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations between 2021 and 2031.

                  There are many reasons students decide to earn a business degree. A business degree can help equip you with in-demand, practical skills that make you stand out in the job market—wherever your interests lie—including critical thinking, communication, leadership, management, ethics and organization. Additionally, a business degree will help you gain qualifications for jobs in a variety of growing fields as you learn directly from experienced working professionals.

                  Graduates receive a well-rounded education that’s valuable in a variety of industries: finance, marketing, public relations, advertising, insurance, human resources and accounting.

                  Here are some careers you may qualify for, depending on your program:

                  • Accountants: Accountants are responsible for compiling and examining financial records, and their employment is expected to grow 6 percent from 2021 to 2031.
                  • Financial Analysts: Financial analysts help both organizations and individuals make informed decisions about expending money to gain profit. Employment is expected to grow 9 percent from 2021 to 2031.
                  • Human Resource Specialists: Human resource specialists are in charge of the hiring process and also place newly hired workers in jobs. They may also handle training, benefits, and compensation. Employment is expected to grow 8 percent from 2021 to 2031.
                  • Sales Manager: Sales managers are in charge of the sales teams at various organizations, and their employment is expected to grow 5 percent from 2021 to 2031.
                  • Management Analyst: Management analysts work to improve the efficiency of company operations, and their employment is expected to grow 11 percent from 2021 to 2031.

                  See Notes and Conditions for important information.

                • If you’ve been out of school for a bit, you might have some questions about going to class online. Our programs were built to be tailored to you, with direct support available whenever you need it. Whether by connecting with faculty or engaging with other students, you’ll never be alone in your studies.

                  Purdue Global is dedicated to providing the best online platform for effective learning. There are two major components to online learning with us:

                  Live Seminars

                  These are the interactive, real-time portion of your education, led by a faculty member.

                  Online Classroom

                  This is where you complete your work and take quizzes and tests. You can also connect with peers and faculty in this space. You’ll find all the resources and tools you need, including your course syllabus, grading rubrics, checkpoint activities, the classroom discussion board, assignment drop box and reading materials.

                  Purdue Global also offers plenty of academic support for round-the-clock assistance:

                  • Tutors for writing, math, science, technology, and business
                  • The ability to submit a paper or ask a question about writing, math, science and business
                  • Time management help
                  • Plagiarism information
                  • Webinars
                  • Numerous writing workshops on topics such as professional writing, grammar and mechanics, thesis development and citations
                NOTES AND CONDITIONS

                Certification Exams: Students are responsible for understanding the requirements of optional certification exams. The University cannot guarantee students will be eligible to sit for or pass exams. In some cases, work experience, additional coursework beyond the Purdue Global program, fieldwork, and/or background checks may be necessary to be eligible to take or to successfully pass the exams.

                CFP® Certification: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, Certified Financial Planner™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S. Purdue Global does not certify individuals to use these marks. CFP certification is granted solely by Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. to individuals who, in addition to completing an educational requirement, have met its ethics, experience, and examination requirements.

                Credit for Prior Learning: Purdue Global does not guarantee transferability of credit. See the University Catalog for the Prior Learning policy.

                Employment and Career Advancement: Purdue Global does not guarantee employment placement or career advancement. Actual outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience, and opportunities for employment. Prior experience may be required for leadership roles. Certain finance positions may require further certification and/or licensing by individual states. Programs were not designed to meet any specific state’s requirements for licensure or certification, and Purdue Global makes no representations or warranties as to whether the degree or any individual courses meet such requirements. Refer to Purdue Global's State Licensure and Certifications page for state-specific information on licensure and state authorizations.

                ExcelTrack® Degree Pace: ExcelTrack® is designed to advance your progress based on existing knowledge; however, degree pace and time and cost savings will vary by individual. Students must enroll in a minimum number of credits per term to remain eligible for financial aid. Refer to the Financial Information section of the University Catalog for additional information.

                Future Programs: The University cannot guarantee that students will be granted admission to any future programs. Speak to an Advisor about transfer credit opportunities and see the University Catalog for the Prior Learning policy.

                Job Growth Predictions: Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Accountants and Auditors, Business and Financial Occupations, Financial Analysts, Human Resources Specialists, Sales Managers, and Management Analyst. National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions, and do not guarantee actual job growth.