Online Bachelor of Arts in Business (BA)
Learn how decision-makers apply critical thinking and business acumen to navigate the universal challenges that organizational leaders face. This BA in Business program at American Public University (APU) provides a well-rounded overview of marketing, management, and accounting concepts.
Program Overview
This bachelor’s degree program introduces business students to the management principles and administrative practices that foster profitable operations. Learners develop career-relevant knowledge and skills as they study how organizational leaders make informed decisions.
APU’s curriculum consists entirely of online courses and includes a generous number of electives, allowing students to customize their learning and explore their unique interests. Core courses also equip learners with a solid understanding of business principles as they study:
- Management
- Marketing
- Business law
- Finance
- Accounting
- Economics
Class discussions and assignments emphasize critical thinking as students contemplate how the evolving American and global business environments influence organizational strategies. Through APU’s interdisciplinary approach, this business degree prepares learners to navigate various industries and help solve complex, real-world problems.
The program is led by expert faculty, many of whom have managerial experience from Fortune 500 companies. These educators enrich the curriculum, sharing practical insights from their professional backgrounds.
ACBSP® is a registered trademark of the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
Gain a Career-Relevant Business Education
Students in this online business degree program gain practical knowledge as they sharpen their analytical skills. Courses examine how decision-makers develop effective strategies to support organizational growth in today’s competitive business world.
Learners will:
- Discuss the economic factors that impact government, business, and consumer environments
- Collect information using various data tools and apply critical-thinking concepts to improve business problem-solving capabilities
- Integrate market and marketing information into a strategic plan
- Explain and apply accounting and financial management operations to enhance business decision-making processes
- Apply management, human resources, and personnel practices to organizational problem solving
APU’s business degree program offers a comprehensive introduction to today’s corporate environment and the diverse career paths within it. Core business courses examine how leaders analyze data and apply ethical reasoning to make informed decisions and facilitate efficient operations.
Graduates may pursue potential career opportunities, including roles as:
- Administrative services managers, who oversee business operations and organizational services to improve efficiency and optimize performance
- Market research analysts, who collect and interpret consumer data to identify trends and support marketing strategies
- Entrepreneurs or small business owners, who launch, manage, and grow independent ventures
- Customer service or business support specialists, who manage client relations and support administrative functions
Students in this bachelor’s degree program build versatile skills that align with today’s dynamic business environment. Coursework emphasizes communication, leadership, and data-driven decision-making, enabling learners to connect business theory to practical applications in real-world organizational settings.
Graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate broad knowledge of core business disciplines, including accounting, finance, marketing, and management
- Apply economic and analytical concepts to evaluate organizational issues
- Communicate effectively in written, oral, and digital formats
- Use ethical reasoning and legal principles to guide business decisions
- Analyze the cultural and global factors that influence modern business practices
- Demonstrate teamwork, collaboration, and leadership in diverse environments
- Apply critical-thinking and problem-solving skills to overcome business challenges
- Utilize technology and data tools to make informed decisions
- Evaluate the role of innovation and entrepreneurship in business success
APU’s BA program combines academic rigor with accessible online learning, making it an ideal choice for students seeking career-relevant knowledge and personal growth.
Browse Core Courses from APU’s Bachelor of Arts in Business Program
This BA degree program prepares students to navigate real-world challenges across a diverse range of organizational contexts. In addition to general education courses and electives, students must complete required courses that explore foundational business concepts.
These core courses integrate applied learning, helping students gain critical skills and knowledge in accounting, management, and marketing. Learners discuss how leaders across myriad industries employ data analysis techniques to make informed decisions that drive organizational success.
APU’s highly customizable curriculum also allows students to explore specific business domains, such as retail management, hospitality, supply chain management, and human resource management.
Connect with Classmates and Faculty Members Beyond the Virtual Classroom
Discover opportunities to connect with fellow business students and faculty members who share your interests outside of class. The University hosts dozens of online student clubs where members can expand their networks, exchange ideas, and discuss their professional ambitions.
Learners pursuing this online BA in Business may be especially interested in APU’s:
- Delta Mu Delta Honor Society
- Kappa Beta Delta Honor Society
- Retail Management Student Organization
- Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM®) chapter4
Find out more about online student organizations at American Public University.
Signature Skills: A Learning Revolution
Integrated into our student curriculum, these signature skills teach you how to move through the world with confidence. The road to success is paved with signature skills learned at APUS.
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Encouraging students to use current technologies, critically evaluate emerging tools, and responsibly engage with digital and AI systems.
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Strengthening the ability in all students to analyze information objectively, question assumptions, explore alternatives, and develop skills essential for navigating continual change.
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Helping students thrive in dynamic workplaces by reinforcing adaptability, resilience, innovation, and self-awareness.
Welcome to a learning revolution.
APUS signature skills.
Digital literacy, critical thinking, a growth mindset entwine themselves around the student journey.
They’re in everything we do!
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Meant to inform our approach to you, and your ability to thrive beyond the classroom,
these signature skills teach you how to move through the world with confidence.
The road to success is paved with signature skills learned at APUS.
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APU is here to support your student journey
We know your well-being is vital to your success. That's why we offer a range of supportive resources to help you throughout your academic journey.
- Career Coaching
- 24/7 Mental Health Support
- Admissions & Advising Support
- Student Life
Career Coaching
Get individualized guidance to help you explore career options, strengthen professional skills, and prepare for the next step in your journey. Whether you’re just entering the workforce, changing fields, or advancing your professional knowledge, our career services team is here to help you translate your goals into action.
Learn More24/7 Mental Health Support
Your well-being is essential to your success. That’s why APU offers access to confidential, flexible, and around-the-clock mental health support. Through our partnerships with telehealth apps, you can connect with peers and professionals anytime you need to manage stress, maintain balance, or find motivation.
Learn MoreAdmissions & Advising Support
From your first course to the day you graduate, our admissions and advising teams are here to guide you every step of the way. You’ll receive personalized assistance with enrollment, program selection, and degree planning from professionals who understand the needs of adult learners.
Learn MoreStudent Life
At APU, learning extends far beyond the classroom. Enrich your college experience and expand your network by getting involved in any of our student organizations. From cultural and social organizations to program-specific honor societies, you’ll find a group to help you thrive during and after your studies.
Learn MoreEarn an Affordable Online BA in Business from APU
This online business degree program is designed to make higher learning accessible, with low-cost tuition rates and generous transfer credit opportunities. University grants help to further reduce out-of-pocket expenses for business students pursuing this Bachelor of Arts at APU.
Review our admission requirements and submit your application today.
- $0 Application Fee
- $0 Textbooks & Ebooks
- $0 Transfer Credit Evaluation
Earning a degree is a valuable investment, but it needs to fit into your budget. Our tuition estimator can help you estimate your tuition and fees, so you can plan a manageable path to your educational goals. For full details, please refer to the financial aid cost of attendance (COA). This estimate does not include course materials, supplies, equipment, software and other expenses such as lab fees. You may be eligible for partnership grants through your employer. Speak with your admissions representative for more details.
APU Removes Barriers
Quality Education Shouldn’t Break the Bank
We offer special rates and grants for eligible students and limit fees to help keep the cost of higher education within reach. Find out how you can save on tuition expenses with our:
- Transfer Credits
- Financial Aid
- Private Loans & Scholarships
- Military & Veteran Benefits
Transfer Credits
APU makes it easy to earn credit for the work you’ve already done. We accept transfer credits from prior college coursework, professional training, exams, and certifications. We’ll evaluate your transcripts at no cost and help you maximize eligible credits so you can save time, reduce costs, and stay focused on reaching your education goals sooner.
Learn MoreFinancial Aid
We’re committed to making quality education accessible and affordable. APU participates in federal financial aid programs, including grants and loans for those who qualify. Our Financial Aid Office can provide personalized guidance to help you understand your options, complete required forms, and make an informed decision about paying for your education.
Learn MorePrivate Loans & Scholarships
In addition to federal financial aid, some APU students choose to explore private education loans or external scholarships to help fund their studies. We encourage all students to first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal student aid before considering private options. Be sure to research lenders carefully, compare terms, and understand your rights and responsibilities as a borrower.
Learn MoreMilitary & Veterans Benefits
Learn More
Apply to APU’s Online BA Degree Program Today
APU’s BA in Business program consists of asynchronous online courses that provide learners with 24/7 access to study materials. Business students may participate in weekly class discussions and complete weekly assignments on their own time from anywhere with internet access. Coursework helps strengthen critical-thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills, preparing learners to navigate today’s complex business world.
Review our admission requirements and submit your application today.
- No Entrance Exams No SAT® or ACT® required for undergraduate programs8
- No Application Fee For undergraduate courses
- Courses Start Monthly Enroll now, start next month
- All APU undergraduate programs require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent (i.e., GED). Please read all undergraduate admission requirements before applying to this program and be prepared to submit the required documentation.
- There is no fee to complete the APU admission application for this program. View steps to apply.
Learn More About Pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Business
APU’s online bachelor’s degree program in business is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). It is held to the same academic standards as on-campus programs, and coursework develops practical skills in communication, leadership, and strategic planning.
The University’s online format allows business students to participate in weekly class discussions remotely and submit weekly assignments from anywhere with internet access. Learners also gain exposure to diverse perspectives as they connect with faculty and classmates from around the world.
With more than 200 career-relevant degrees and certificates, APU makes online education accessible and affordable.
Request More Information
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Consumer Information
Maryland Residents learn more about costs, completion rates, median debt, and more.
The University reserves the right to accept or deny credits according to policies outlined on our University website. Please see the University's transfer credit policy webpage for complete information.
The Preferred Military Rate is $250 per credit hour for undergraduate and master's-level courses. This rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.
See all military student benefits.
