Business school is a popular choice. Seasoned workers may choose to develop their knowledge and skills after gaining experience in the business world. Today’s online business degrees are versatile and flexible. They often include specialties that are valuable in a variety of industries. However, it can be challenging to determine which online business school is worth your time and money. Let’s break down the top 14 online business ACBSP accredited schools and explore what ACBSP accreditation means for you.
Article Navigation: What is ACBSP Accreditation? | How Do Schools Receive ACBSP Accreditation? | Why is ACBSP Accreditation Important? | ACBSP vs. AACSB – What Business School Accreditation is Best? | Why Choose Accredited Online MBA Programs? | The Top 14 Online Business Schools with ACBSP Accreditation | How to Check Business School Accreditation | FAQs
What is ACBSP Accreditation?
ACBSP stands for the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. It’s a specialized agency that purely accredits business programs. ACBSP accreditation means that the Council approves a given program with the business school. At the time of this writing, the ACBSP accredits over 1200 business programs. That includes associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs.
Initially founded in 1989, the ACBSP provided a way to distinguish superior business programs from the rest. Before ACBSP, it was difficult for students to know if a program was worthwhile. It was also difficult to gauge a job candidate’s value based on their education.
Like other accreditation bodies, the ACBSP serves a distinct purpose:
- To identify business schools and programs that provide students with the right skills from their educational investment.
Consider ACBSP accreditation as a primary factor to consider when choosing an online business school. You have plenty of great options as ACBSP has certified over 1000 college campuses and thousands of business degree programs.
How Many Schools Are ACBSP-Accredited?
As of 2023, the ACBSP has accredited over 1260 member campuses. Technically, there are over 10,000 individual member programs. That’s because some schools have multiple business programs that are ACBSP accredited. Online students looking for a rigorous, quality education have a lot of options.
How Do Schools Receive ACBSP Accreditation?
How does an online business school receive an ACBSP accreditation? The process varies from place to place. But, essentially, follows the same basic college accreditation checks.
First, a college receives an ACBSP roadmap. This map breaks down the standards and criteria that the ACBSP uses to determine accreditation worthiness. The school must meet all these criteria to acquire accreditation.
The ACBSP requires business schools to commit themselves to excellence. Officials visit candidate institutes and examine program elements like teaching excellence, student learning outcomes, and verifying a continuous improvement model.
The ACBSP requires colleges to demonstrate continuing quality over time. Moreover, ACBSP-accredited schools must showcase leading-edge management practices. In other words, schools accredited by the ACBSP can’t teach outdated business concepts. Instead, they must be at the forefront of modern business philosophies. Their practices keep pace with technology and analytics.
The ACBSP typically requires business schools to facilitate better contact and articulation agreements between associate, bachelor, and graduate degree member campuses. This results in the offering of accelerated programs.
Once a school achieves ACBSP accreditation, it receives worldwide recognition for its business programs. This sets them apart from the competition. This global distinction helps the school attract future students due to its excellence in education.
Typically, once schools achieve ACBSP accreditation, they strive to retain that approval.
What if a School Loses ACBSP Accreditation While You Attend?
Some students complete online business school at a more relaxed, flexible pace. In such cases, it may take longer than four years to acquire a degree.
What if, in the middle of your program, your chosen online ACBSP-accredited school loses its accreditation? In that case, it’s a better idea to transfer to another school with accreditation. If you stay at your current school, your degree may not continue to reflect ACBSP standards, so it won’t be as valuable as you first hoped.
That all said, losing accreditation is relatively rare. Most ACBSP-accredited schools maintain their business programs to retain their status because online business schools benefit from having ACBSP accreditation as it draws more students to their programs. Schools make more money which can be funneled into their business schools to maintain their accreditation standards.
What Happens if a School Loses Accreditation After You Graduate?
If you already have a degree and your school loses accreditation, don’t worry. That doesn’t affect your degree whatsoever. That’s because you received the quality, accredited education the school was known for before you left. A future employer might ask a question or two about it but you can explain that accreditation loss happened after you graduated.
Why is ACBSP Accreditation Important?
ACBSP accreditation is important for two big reasons:
- It assures students that a given business school is worth their time and money. This is helpful if you are pursuing accredited online colleges as you can’t typically visit a campus or speak to instructors personally.
- It gives greater student value. When business students graduate from an ACBSP-accredited school, they are more marketable. Employers will know that the degree conveys valuable knowledge and skills.
The modern job marketplace is highly competitive, especially for those with business degrees or even MBAs. As one of the most common degrees in the college-educated workforce, business graduates need to set themselves apart. Receiving a degree from an ACBSP-accredited school is one way to do that. MBA accreditation is especially important for those who want to work at the most competitive companies.
Is a Business School Worthwhile Without ACBSP Accreditation?
A non-ACBSP program doesn’t necessarily lack an accreditation status. ACBSP is a programmatic accreditor, meaning it accredits singular programs, as well as an institutional accreditor. However, regional and national accreditation is more broad accepted, assessing entire institutions. Regional accreditation, specifically, is the most foundational and prestigious. Make sure the school you attend has regional accreditation, such as the Higher Learning Commission or the SACSCOC. If you’re not sure the school you’re pursuing is accredited, check out the CHEA website for a listing.
Regardless, if an online business program from an ACBSP school is available, it’s recommended to pursue that path. There are hundreds of programs from accredited business schools that are available online today. But there’s no guarantee that what they teach will be valuable in your future career. Nor is there a guarantee that a prospective employer will see your degree as competitive. Remote students pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s in business will fare better with a program accredited by the ACBSP. The degree will hold more value to employers and allow you to be more competitive in the job market.
Furthermore, the superior education gained through an ACBSP-accredited school will likely be more pertinent to modern business practices and challenges. It is in your best interest to earn your online business degree from an ACBSP-accredited school.
ACBSP vs. AACSB – What Business School Accreditation is Best?
Accreditation from the ACBSP is crucial. It’s the only accreditor for business programs at associate degree schools. However, it’s not the only accrediting body to pay attention to.
For example, the AACSB or Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The AACSB is the longest-serving and global accrediting body for business schools. It was initially a joint program between 17 US academies. After its founding in 1916, the AACSB established minimum accreditation standards for business schools.
For the next few decades, all the best business schools required AACSB accreditation. That includes BSBA programs and MBAs alike. Like the ACBSP, the AACSB focuses on high-quality and academic rigor. It evaluates institutions across four categories of standards:
- Strategic management and innovation
- Learning and teaching
- Participants
- Academic and professional engagement
However, the AACSB is a research-focused institution. As a result, its members focus on advancing business theory and teaching duties. Because of this, the AACSB mostly accredits programs and larger schools emphasizing research and publishing. The AACSB accredits schools for 10-year periods before they face quality assurance reviews every two years.
Ultimately, neither type of accreditation is better than the other. AACSB accreditation is older and has broader name recognition. That said, ACBSP recognition is advantageous due to its focus on practical business knowledge and application. As a result, if you acquire an ACBSP MBA program from a regionally accredited school, employers will know you’ve got what it takes to succeed.
What if you must choose between one type of accreditation or the other? ACBSP is slightly superior for global business grads. That’s doubly true for graduates building businesses or proving their practical skill sets to employers. AACSB accreditation might be ideal for future business analysts or researchers.
Why Choose Accredited Online MBA Programs?
An online MBA allows you to acquire higher-paying positions or to start your own business. However, it’s important to attend the right online MBA program so you get the best value for money and to receive the best education possible.
GetEducated's Picks
- William Carey University Master of Business Administration
- Alvernia University Master of Business Administration
- Western Governors University Master of Business Administration
Online schooling has significant advantages over programs that require in-person attendance. These include:
- Schedule flexibility. In many cases, you can complete coursework at your own pace and on your own schedule. Several online programs are asynchronous, allowing you to view the lessons on your time.
- Attendance from anywhere. Online programs offer academic opportunities regardless of your location. Therefore, it is possible to attend your dream school without leaving your hometown through remote learning.
- Cost differences. Some online schools are more affordable than their brick-and-mortar counterparts. As a result, online business schools can be budget-friendly. You can get the best bang for your buck.
You can receive an excellent online business school education as long as you research your college choices. As noted above, ACBSP accreditation is a great way to determine whether a school is worth looking into.
The Top 14 Online Business Schools with ACBSP Accreditation
Now let’s break down the top 14 online ACBSP accredited business schools.
Grand Canyon University – Colangelo College of Business
GCU’s Colangelo College of Business is an excellent online school. It offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in various business disciplines. You can also opt for a fast-track bachelor’s to master’s degree combined program. That way, you earn both certifications at the same time.
Furthermore, students can specialize in an MSN-MBA dual degree program. Available focuses include:
– Accounting
– Applied business analytics
– Applied entrepreneurship and moreGCU also offers other minor degree options and secondary focus. You can tailor your online degree to your interests or business needs.
This college is a Christian business school. Yes, its online courses are fully ACBSP-accredited. However, certain guiding pillars, from ethics to servant leadership, permeate class materials.
Ranked as an excellent school for business topics, GCU is 38th for most transfer-friendly institutions. Also, one of the 25 best online entrepreneurship degree providers. Finally, the school’s MBA in project management online program is ranked third in the nation. GCU may additionally be a good choice for those practicing conscious capitalism in keeping with their faith.
Purdue University Global
Purdue University’s online business programs are all ACBSP-accredited. They are available through the global or online campus rather than a specific subsidiary school. As a result, each degree is offered 100% online and on a flexible, student-paced schedule.
Program highlights, regardless of concentration, include classes on:
– Negotiation
– Teamwork
– Working
– Marketing
– Economics, etc.Most of the degrees allow students to study specialty areas including:
– Aviation management
– Business development
– Human resources
– Global marketing management
– Procurement
– Financial analysisThis online institute is an excellent choice. Especially if you plan to specialize in a niche area of business management or a specific industry.
Students may apply for an accelerated MBA option. That way, they can earn their master’s degree at a faster than usual pace.
Champlain College
The Robert P. Stiller School of Business at Champlain College offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business. The school’s BSBA online is particularly well regarded. All business programs are ACBSP-accredited.
Most of the online programs feature accelerated courses. For example, many bachelor’s programs have each course run for just seven weeks. The demanding pace allows students to graduate faster. Each online course includes interactive discussions with peers and teachers. Students will participate in practical demonstrations or case studies of business skills.
Concentrations include:
– Accounting
– Human resource management
– Project management
– Supply chain management
– Logistics, and moreFurthermore, students can complete each business program 100% online without any in-person classes or requirements. However, it is a rigorous school to get into, requiring a 2.5 GPA or higher from each candidate.
Utica College
Utica College’s online business programs are robust and well-rounded. Business degree programs offer both bachelor’s and master’s degrees. For example, Utica’s 30-credit hour online MBA is the school’s featured business program. It’s designed for modern relevance in the evolving marketplace.
Most of the business programs from Utica are available in either 100% online or hybrid formats. A 100% online, asynchronous class is just that. A hybrid program requires some on-campus attendance.
The available online business programs can include focuses such as:
– Finance
– Accounting
– Insurance and risk management
– Cyber security
– Resource procurement, and moreThe MBA can also be pursued as a general degree. General degrees free students for a more flexible career path after graduation. Students applying to this school should acquire a GPA of 2.7 or above to satisfy entry requirements.
Lindenwood University – Plaster College of Business and Entrepreneurship
Lindenwood University has a variety of online business programs. For example, programs in business administration, accounting, and more.
Each of these programs features broad and specialized course materials. Students can expect a well-rounded business education and specific courses tailored to their interests. This school’s BSBA online emphasizes global trends, how trade affects individual businesses, and similar subjects. Students may choose concentrations like marketing, management, finance, and more.
Each program is 100% online. Plus, application requirements are relatively accessible. Just a high school transcript and/or GED without a firm GPA requirement.
Lindenwood’s business school is considered dynamic. It has excellent connections, offering networking and partnership opportunities with businesses.
Rivier University
Rivier offers online bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business subjects. All programs are awarded as degrees in science instead of the arts. In addition to standard online programs, Rivier offers “4+1” program options. In other words, bachelor’s degrees directly followed by a master’s program. This system cuts down total school time by about one year.
Students may benefit from an accelerated course format and earn their degree faster than usual. These online programs are fully asynchronous and remote. Each includes coursework on critical thinking, communication, information literacy, and so on.
Several of the business programs offer specific focuses such as:
– Economics
– Statistics
– Organizational behavior
– Strategy and managementThis school does require a GPA of 2.0 or above to accept most students. Each program is ACBSP-accredited. You will receive an education with the appropriate rigor and status to succeed after graduation.
Alvernia University
Alvernia University offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business. For example, management, administration, communications, and more. This school provides fewer business degrees and programs than many other schools. But that’s not bad for students who know what they wish to pursue.
The school demands a 2.0 GPA or higher for entrance. All students benefit from an asynchronous schedule. Each business program is offered 100% online without any in-person requirements.
Business courses typically include practical business applications and management ethics. Depending on the degree path chosen, you can specialize in:
– International business
– Small business challenges
– Human resource management, and other areasThe University of West Alabama – College of Business and Technology
COBT offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration, accounting, marketing, and more. Many can combine into a bachelor’s + master’s track. This way, students can complete their graduate degrees ahead of schedule.
Each business program is 100% online and accredited by the ACBSP. Also, there is no set GPA for academic requirements. It’s one of the most accessible online business schools.
The programs at the COBT provide general coursework to their students. However, the school is known for its emphasis on information technology and modern business practices. By teaching their graduates to handle IT challenges and analytics, COBT’s programs prepare today’s students for tomorrow’s problems.
The Small Business Development Center is an option for networking, resource acquisition, and further assistance. Students also benefit from COBT’s Center for Entrepreneurial Services. This center is available to:
– Students and graduates who have a small business or
– Wish to leap into entrepreneurship following graduationNew Mexico Highlands University
NMHU offers only three different master’s degrees in business. One is in general business administration. Then, a business administration with an emphasis on entrepreneurship. Finally, the school offers an MBA healthcare concentration online. The school’s flagship online program is the general online MBA degree. It’s 100% ACBSP-accredited, designed for nontraditional students.
The accredited online MBA program covers topics such as management, finance, and leadership. All programs offer one-on-one attention for remote students throughout the program’s duration. In-person requirements are nonexistent. Each program includes practical applications of business skills to hone focus. These applications assure a graduate’s relevance in today’s business world.
Note, however, that this school has a relatively high GPA requirement. 3.0 or higher for the MBAs mentioned above. In addition, the school doesn’t offer any online bachelor’s degrees in business topics. Therefore, students must acquire such a degree from another college before transferring to NMHU.
Western Governors University
WGU offers a selection of ACBSP-accredited online bachelor’s and master’s degrees. The business school here is desirable for a variety of reasons. One such is that each student receives a program mentor throughout their academic journey.
The potential degree programs you can complete here include:
– Business management
– Business administration
– Management and leadership
– Healthcare management
– Business marketingStudents further benefit from an advantageous tuition structure. They pay a flat rate for every six-month term instead of paying per credit hour. Exams are offered whenever students feel ready rather than at fixed times. Also, most students can take courses anytime, anywhere (as nearly 100% of courses are asynchronous and online).
Add to that the fact that WGU is an affordable school, with average tuition hovering around $7800 for master’s degrees. This is a great place to get an affordable online business degree accredited by the ACBSP.
Southern New Hampshire University
SNHU offers business administration programs for online students. That includes more than 10 undergrad concentrations in over 15 specialized MBA degrees. Each degree includes hands-on practice and theory via hybrid programs and 100% online programs depending on your needs.
Regardless, SNHU is one of the most transfer-friendly schools. It accepts up to 90 undergraduate credits for all bachelor’s degrees and up to 12 credits for all master’s degrees. This can save time and money if you have completed some of your education elsewhere.
Students benefit from extensive support, like faculty advisors. The MBA degree, in particular, is worth noting. It can be completed in about one year on your own pace. Students can also earn credentials along the way. That way, they are even better prepared to apply for competitive business degree jobs. The curriculum was revised in 2021, but the ACBSP still accredits it.
Liberty University
Liberty University’s business school is affordable and accessible. It offers 100% online business degrees and certificates. Of course, the business programs are accredited by the ACBSP.
Note that Liberty is a Christian university. Course materials include elements of Christian ethics and teaching philosophies. There are many benefits to attending this college’s business school. For example, all students in the School of Business may pursue hands-on internships to gain real-world business experience.
Liberty’s MBA program is worth noting. It’s 45 credit hours, two years or less, depending on how fast you progress through the materials. There are several start dates throughout the year. Also, you can transfer up to 50% of your credits to the degree total. All classes are 100% online and take place over eight weeks.
California Baptist University
California Baptist University is one of the highest rated schools in the West. One of the most veteran friendly colleges, too. It’s a Christian, ACBSP accredited school.
Students can complete the MBA in 1 to 2 years with 36 units. Possible areas of focus range from accounting to analytics to healthcare administration to management. The MBA management degree highlights the school’s online synchronous learning option.
If you want a BBA, you can choose between logistics, operations, or management focuses. In any case, you’ll benefit from extensive student support resources. This school also boasts knowledgeable faculty, and asynchronous online course materials.
Saint Leo University
Saint Leo University’s business degrees range from associate to doctoral programs. Each is taught by faculty members with real-world business experience. Many of these programs host a variety of concentrations. For example, you can acquire a bachelor’s in business with a concentration in:
– Management
– Marketing
– Human resources
– AccountingMBAs are available in accounting, healthcare management, cyber security management, and more.
This school has a Catholic business college with over 8000 business students. Many programs are ACBSP-accredited. Each of these programs are 100% online and asynchronous. This format enables students to complete most of the programs faster than usual.
Students should also take advantage of financial aid opportunities. 98% of Saint Leo’s students receive some form of financial aid, whether it’s a scholarship, grant, or discount on tuition.
How to Check Business School Accreditation
As you investigate online MBA programs, you might find it’s difficult to determine whether a school is accredited by your target organization, like ACBSP. Here’s how to check business school accreditation thoroughly so you know you’re applying for a worthwhile program.
Programmatic vs. Institutional Accreditation
Programmatic accreditation only occurs when an institution accredits single programs as opposed to an entire school. As a result, program accreditors evaluate things like:
- Faculty quality
- Curriculum rigor
- Students
- Administrative structure
- Student resources
Institutional accreditation, on the other hand, is a process by which an entire school is accredited. It is valuable for universities or subsidiary schools since it adds credibility. A national or regional group may provide institutional accreditation. There are six regional accreditation agencies in the US:
- WASC – Western Association of Schools and Colleges
- NCCU – Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- HLC – Higher Learning Commission
- SACSCOC – Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- MSCHE – Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- NEASC – The New England Association of Schools and Colleges
An online MBA program may be programmatically accredited by an organization like the ACBSP. The ACBSP may also institutionally accredit a complete business school. It’s better to attend an ACBSP-accredited business school that is accredited institutionally.
A program may hold accreditation by multiple bodies at the same time. For example, especially good business programs might hold AACSB, the ACBSP, and the IACBE accreditation. IACBE stands for International Accreditation Council for Business Education.
What Accreditation Should a College Have?
In the broad scheme of accreditation, regional is superior to national. Ideally, you should attend an online MBA that is regionally accredited by one of the institutions listed above. In addition, try to attend a school that’s accredited by the ACBSP (programmatically or institutionally).
Some colleges only have national accreditation. However, singular programs may be accredited by the ACBSP or another programmatic institution. The more accreditations a college has, the better.
Keep accreditation in mind when considering transfer credits. For credits to transfer from one school to another, both schools’ accreditation levels have to match up. For example, say you have some credits from a nationally accredited school. Now, you want to go to another school that is regionally accredited. In that case, the second school may not accept the nationally accredited credits.
Practically all accrediting institutions require similar processes from programs or colleges that they analyze. This includes:
- Receiving a copy of the accrediting body’s standards
- Adjusting curriculum, resources, or faculty organization as needed
- Receiving an administrator or examiner from the accrediting body
- Receiving accreditation
CHEA Explained
CHEA is the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. It is an academic, nonprofit organization. CHEA provides national advocacy and ensures academic quality via the accreditation process. It accredits institutions itself and also verifies the quality of accrediting bodies. If an accrediting body isn’t approved by the CHEA, take caution.
The CHEA has recognized the ACBSP as a legitimate accrediting body. According to the CHEA, the ACBSP has met accreditation standards. CHEA also recognizes that ACBSP has a rigorous, consistent accreditation process. In summary, the ACBSP is a worthwhile accrediting institution to look out for.
How You Can Find an Online School’s Accreditation Status
There are a few different ways in which you can find an online school’s accreditation status.
First, you can check the school’s website. Most credible schools include links to their status near the bottom of the front page. Singular programs may also clearly advertise their accreditation status.
Next, you can visit an accreditation agency’s website. Such websites keep up-to-date lists of the programs or schools that they have accredited and that have maintained status.
If you are still in doubt, check the CHEA website or the US Department of Education website. Both include lists of accrediting agencies. This can be a good way to make sure that a school’s accreditation is worthwhile or legitimate. Both websites include lists of accrediting agencies recognized by CHEA or the Department of Education.
FAQs
What does accredited mean?
When a school is accredited, it has been analyzed and approved by at least one accrediting agency. For example, the ACBSP. That means its courses, faculty, resources, etc. have met standards regarding rigor, modernity, contents, accessibility, and consistency. Put even more simply, “accredited” means a program is high quality. Employers recognize accreditation as a valuable asset.
What accreditation should a college have?
A college should have regional accreditation (or national at the least). Individual schools or programs should also be accredited by relevant accrediting agencies. For example, a college offering an online MBA program should have regional accreditation status. On top of that, the business program or school should be accredited by an agency like the ACBSP.
What is AACSB?
The AACSB is the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. It is an accrediting agency that only accredits business schools and programs. It’s older than the ACBSP. AACSB primarily accredits business schools from larger universities that focus on faculty research.
Is ACBSP respected?
The ACBSP is highly respected among business people and educational institutions. Employers are most interested in MBAs from ACBSP-accredited schools. That status means that the students have the skills and expertise to be worthwhile assets.
What is better: accredited vs. non-accredited schools?
Accredited schools are always better than non-accredited schools. Trustworthy organizations have examined and tested accredited schools. Accredited schools work hard to maintain rigor and academic standards. They’re more likely to provide valuable education, plus help graduates qualify for competitive jobs.
How to check if a school is accredited
You can check if a school holds accreditation by visiting the school’s website. Or you can check a given accrediting agency’s website. In that case, look for a roster or directory of the schools and programs it has accredited.
Summary
As you can see, there are plenty of online business schools with ACBSP accreditation waiting for your application. Whether you need a bachelor’s, master’s, or even a doctorate in business, there’s an ACBSP-accredited school for you.
Even better, many of these schools have pages at GetEducated.com. You’ll find breakdowns of programs, tips, instructions, and other helpful information right here. Check out GetEducated today and get started on your path to an online business degree!