business students meeting

Bachelor of Science inBusiness

Program summary

Build a strong foundation in strategic business and project management. This online degree program allows you to align your course work with one of six unique topic areas to tailor your degree to your goals.

Application deadline

Apply by June 30 to start August 26

Credits and costs

120 Credits$626/$671 per credit

Nationally Recognized

US News and World Report Bachelor's Business badge
Our online bachelor's degree program in business is ranked in the top 5 by U.S. News & World Report.

A Respected Penn State Business Degree — 100% Online

Employers are looking for versatile business professionals to evaluate and respond to their organization's challenges. As a student in the Bachelor of Science in Business program, offered online through Penn State World Campus, you will gain broad exposure to the most important disciplines of business, including accounting, finance, management, and marketing. Then, you will tailor your program by selecting an 18-credit specialized option based on your unique career aspirations and areas of strength.

This online business degree program, offered in partnership with the business schools from 17 of Penn State's campuses, integrates a theory-to-practice approach that strengthens your problem-solving skills while delivering an experience that is contemporary and relevant. You can learn to:

  • maximize marketing strategies
  • think, speak, and write about organizational issues
  • analyze business data to make inferences and solve business problems
  • understand capital risk and reward metrics
  • use finance and accounting measures to drive business decisions
  • execute contract agreements
  • prepare your business for the cultural implications of a global marketplace

Customize Your Education for Your Future

Specialize in a particular business discipline with one of these 18-credit options:

Accounting: Gain a deeper understanding of financial and managerial accounting, systems and controls, taxation, and auditing

Entrepreneurship: Explore topics like idea generation, opportunity analysis, new product creation, and business plan development

Financial Services: Build skills highly valued by employers, in wealth management, risk management, estate planning, portfolio analysis, and personal financial and retirement planning

Health Services: Pursue careers in the health services sector with emphasis on the financial and administrative aspects of health care enterprises

Management and Marketing: Develop advanced management and marketing techniques related to sales, global marketing, small business marketing, and more

Individualized: Create a business-focused plan of study drawing upon course work in different disciplines and developed in conjunction with your adviser and approved by the program coordinator

Why a Business Degree from Penn State?

By exposing you to core aspects of business, the B.S. in Business program offers a comprehensive overview of the field that can help you develop a multifaceted skill set and operate more effectively within cross-functional teams. This broad understanding of business, combined with an immersion into the specialization of your choice, can enhance your value to employers and expand your career opportunities.

U.S. News & World Report consistently ranks Penn State as one of the nation's top providers of online bachelor's degrees. You can leverage our reputation for excellence and vast alumni network to help open doors for you now and into the future.

Your Online Business Courses

Our courses are taught by Penn State faculty, trained to provide you with an engaging learning experience. Your diploma will look no different from the one earned by students on our physical campus.

Courses

The Bachelor of Science in Business degree requires students to complete a minimum of 120 credits. 

This program features a core of prescribed courses, general education requirements, and electives. Students will also select an option that emphasizes one set of skills. Options include accounting, entrepreneurship, financial services, health services, management and marketing, and an individualized option.

The number of credits you will have to take will vary according to the courses you transfer into the business degree program. Once you are admitted into the degree program, an academic adviser will help you with remaining requirements.

Prescribed Courses (41 credits)

  • 4
    credits

    Introduction to the role of accounting numbers in the process of managing a business and in investor decision-making.

    • Prerequisite

      MATH 21 or a higher math course or a satisfactory score on the mathematics placement examination

  • 3
    credits

    Technological and interpersonal skills for the contemporary business professional, stressing collaborative learning, electronic inquiry and communications, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

    • Prerequisite

      ACCTG 211 and ECON 102 or ECON 104 and ENGL 15

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    Effectiveness of the business professional in team settings, especially the capacity to execute both technologically and cooperatively through group exercises.

    • Prerequisite

      ACCTG 211 and ECON 102 or ECON 104 and ENGL 15

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 1
    credit

    This course emphasizes effective career planning by closely examining oneself, the business world, and communication styles and strategies.

    • Prerequisite

      BA 321 or BA 322

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    Introduction to Project Management, covering all phases of a project in proposal development, planning, execution, and closing.

    • Prerequisite

      BA 321 or BA 322

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    Study of strategic planning and implementation in multi-industry, multicultural, and multi-national settings with emphasis on sustaining competitive advantages.

    • Prerequisite

      BA 321 and BA 322 and BA 421 and FIN 301 and MGMT 301 and MKTG 301 and SCM 301

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    Methods of economic analysis and their use; price determination; theory of the firm; distribution.

    • GS

      This course can be used to satisfy the Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS) requirement.

  • 3
    credits

    National income measurement; aggregate economic models; money and income; policy problems.

    • GS

      The credits earned in this course may be applied toward the Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS) requirement.

  • 3
    credits

    Nature of finance function; risk and return concepts; working capital; dividend policies; mergers; security markets; acquisition and management of corporate capital; analysis of operations; forecasting capital requirements; raising capital; and planning profits. Available to baccalaureate students only.

    • Prerequisite

      (ENGL 15 or ENGL 30) and ACCTG 211 and (ECON 102 or ECON 104) and (SCM 200 or STAT 200)

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    A survey of the major aspects of international business environment and operations with an emphasis on the cultural dimension.

    • Prerequisite

      Fifth-semester standing

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

    • IL

      The credits earned in this course may be applied toward the Integrative Studies (IL) requirement.

  • 3
    credits

    Examination of fundamental principles and processes applicable to the study of management. Not available to students who have taken BA 304.

    • Prerequisite

      (ENGL 15 or ENGL 30) and (ECON 102 or ECON 104) and (MATH 21 or higher or satisfactory score on the mathematics placement examination)

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    Covers terminology and important concepts related to marketing in the business environment. Domestic and international environments that impact marketing are included, with particular emphasis on the marketing environment, segmentation, positioning, and targeting. Not available to students who have taken BA 303.

    • Prerequisite

      (ENGL 015 or ENGL 030) and (ECON 102 or ECON 104) and (MATH 021 or higher or satisfactory score on the mathematics placement examination.)

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    Provides an overview of the role of information systems in business process design; the current technologies used for obtaining, storing, securing, and communicating information in support of operations and decision-making within a business organization; as well as the concepts and principles for developing and using popular spreadsheet and database tools.

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

    • GQ

      The credits earned in this course may be applied toward the Quantification (GQ) requirement.

  • 3
    credits

    Supply chain management concepts, principles, and methodologies.

    • Prerequisite

      ACCTG 211 and ECON 102 and (SCM 200 or STAT 200)

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

Additional Courses (select 15–18 credits)

  • 4
    credits

    Explores the ethical, political, social, legal and regulatory, technological, and demographic diversity environment of business.

    • Note

      A student may not receive credit toward graduation for both BLAW 243 and BA 243.

  • 3 or 6
    credits

    Guided professional practicum in business consisting of 3 or 6 credits of supervised fieldwork in business.

    • Prerequisite

      BA 321BA 322; BA 420 and completion of 6 credits at the 300- or 400- level in student's option

    • Note

      This internship is an opportunity to apply the theories and concepts taught throughout the program. With approval from the academic program coordinator, you can engage in an assignment at your workplace that goes beyond your regular job duties, or you could work on a special initiative with a local organization in your community. Whichever path you choose, this internship is an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world business setting and demonstrate your willingness to go beyond your regular job responsibilities.

    • 4
      credits

      Introduces and develops the mathematical skills required for analyzing change, and the underlying mathematical behaviors that model real-life economics and financial applications. Develops student knowledge of calculus techniques, and how to use a calculus framework to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

      • Prerequisite

        MATH 022 or satisfactory performance on the mathematics placement examination

    • or:
      4
      credits

      Introduces and develops the mathematical skills required for analyzing change and creating mathematical models that replicate real-life phenomena. Develops student knowledge of calculus techniques and how to use the calculus environment to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

      • Prerequisite

        MATH 22 and MATH 26 or MATH 26 and satisfactory performance on the mathematics placement examination or MATH 40 or MATH 41 or satisfactory performance on the mathematics placement examination.

  • 4
    credits

    Descriptive Statistics, frequency distributions, probability and normal distributions, statistical inference, linear regression, and correlation.

    • Prerequisite

      Placement into MATH 21 or higher.

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

Supporting Courses and Related Areas (0–3 credits)

Select 0–3 credits from 400-level business courses from: ACCTG, BA, ECON, ENTR, FIN, FINSV, HPA, IB, MGMT, MIS, MKTG, RM, or SCM. A letter grade of C or higher is required. You are encouraged to work with your adviser to identify the appropriate supporting courses.

Options (select 18 credits)

Customize your path by choosing 18 required credits from one of the degree options:

Accounting Option

Prescribed Courses for the Accounting Option (9 credits)
  • 3
    credits

    Accounting techniques as planning, control, and motivating devices in business and other organizations; accounting data for decision-making and performance evaluation.

    • Prerequisite

      ACCTG 211, STAT 200 or ECON 102

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    Theory and practice issues in income concepts and value measurement; GAAP; revenues, costs, assets, liabilities, and equities.

    • Prerequisite

      ACCTG 211 or ACCTG 311

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    Off-balance sheet financing; special issues in cost capitalization, liabilities, and equities; matching; funds flow statements; statement analysis; inflation accounting.

    • Prerequisite

      ACCTG 371 or ACCTG 471

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

Additional Courses for the Accounting Option (6 credits)
  • 3
    credits

    Financial compliance, internal, and operational audits; standards and procedures; sampling; EDP auditing; professional issues; application of concepts through written responses.

    • Prerequisite

      ACCTG 371 or ACCTG 471

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    Elements of tax policy and tax-planning concepts for personal and business decision-making; with emphasis on taxation of individuals.

    • Prerequisite

      ACCTG 211; BA 301 or FIN 301

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

Supporting Courses and Related Areas for the Accounting Option (select 3 credits)

Select 3 credits from 400-level business courses from: ACCTG, BA, ECON, ENTR, FIN, HPA, IB, MGMT, MIS, MKTG, or SCM (Sem: 7–8)

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Entrepreneurship Option

Prescribed Courses for the Entrepreneurship Option (9 credits)
  • 3
    credits

    Overview of the fundamental principles and processes of entrepreneurship, including idea generation and opportunity analysis.

    • Prerequisite

      ACCTG 211, ECON 102

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    Explores the process for starting and growing a new venture, including the development of a business plan.

    • Prerequisite

      ENTR 300

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    Overview of alternative forms of financing, including seed capital, valuing a company, going public, partnerships, and acquisitions.

    • Prerequisite

      BA 243 or BLAW 243; ENTR 320, FIN 301

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

Additional Courses for the Entrepreneurship Option (select 0–3 credits)
  • 3
    credits

    Examines the function and structure of communication in both formal and informal situations.

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    Preparing and editing reports and presentations common to business, industry, and government.

    • Prerequisite

      ENGL 015 or ENGL 030

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

Supporting Courses and Related Areas for the Entrepreneurship Option (select 6–9 credits)

Select 6 to 9 credits of 400-level ENTR courses in consultation with your adviser. Some prerequisites may apply.

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Financial Services Option

Prescribed Courses for the Financial Services Option (3 credits)
  • 3
    credits

    Investment and risk, types of security investments, sources of investment information, the broker, the stock market, portfolio management.

    • Prerequisite

      FIN 301

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

Additional Courses for the Financial Services Option (3 credits)
  • 3
    credits

    Elements of tax policy and tax-planning concepts for personal and business decision-making; with emphasis on taxation of individuals.

    • Prerequisite

      ACCTG 211; BA 301 or FIN 301

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

Supporting Courses and Related Areas for the Financial Services Option (select 12 credits)

Select 12 credits in 300 or 400-level (with at least 3 credits at the 400-level) from ACCTG, FIN (Sem: 5–8)

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Health Services Option

Note: 6 of the 18 credits in the Health Services Option must be at the 400-level.

Prescribed Courses for the Health Services Option (6 credits)
  • 3
    credits

    Examination of the social, political, historic, and scientific factors in the development and organization of health services.

    • Prerequisite

      fifth-semester standing or permission of instructor

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    This course provides you with an overview of how health care institutions are organized and governed, the role of the management staff, and the management systems designed for their efficient and effective operation.

    • Prerequisite

      HPA 101, HPA 211

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

Additional Courses for the Health Services Option (select 0–3 credits)
  • 3
    credits

    Examines the function and structure of communication in both formal and informal situations.

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    Theories and strategies important for conceptualizing, developing, and managing conflict negotiation, mediation, and third-party intervention.

    • Prerequisite

      CAS 100

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    Preparing and editing reports and presentations common to business, industry, and government.

    • Prerequisite

      ENGL 015 or ENGL 030

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    Development and management of employee compensation systems.

    • Prerequisite

      LHR 201 and sixth-semester standing

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    Explore the causes and consequences of conflicts between work, family, and other life commitments, and how these may be resolved.

    • Prerequisite

      3 credits of LHR

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    Personnel selection, training, accident prevention, morale, and organizational behavior.

    • Prerequisite

      PSYCH 100

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    Survey of theory and research with respect to attitudes, morale, and motivation of employees and management.

    • Prerequisite

      PSYCH 100; PSYCH 200 or STAT 200

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

  • 3
    credits

    Review of research and application of behavior principles in the areas of management and supervision.

    • Prerequisite

      PSYCH 100; PSYCH 281 or 3 credits MGMT; fifth-semester standing or permission of instructor

    • C or better

      A student enrolled in this course must receive a grade of C or better.

Supporting Courses and Related Areas for the Health Services Option (select 9–12 credits)
  • 3–9 credits of 300- or 400-level HPA courses (fifth-semester standing or permission of instructor)
  • 0–6 credits of ACCTG, BA, ECON, ENTR, FIN, HPA, IB, MGMT, MKTG, MIS, or SCM. Consult with your adviser; prerequisites may apply.

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Management and Marketing Option

Note: 3 of the 18 credits in the Management and Marketing Option must be 400-level Management (MGMT) and Marketing (MKTG). Please check with your adviser about their availability.

Additional Courses for the Management and Marketing Option (select 0–6 credits)

Select 0–6 credits from the following: BA 250(3), ENGL 419(3), MKTG 220(3) or one of the following, CAS 252(3), CAS 352(3), CAS 404(3) (Sem: 5–8)

Supporting Courses and Related Areas for the Management and Marketing Option (select 12–18 credits)

A minimum of 3 credits of supporting courses must be selected at the 400-level.

  • Select 3 credits from 300 or 400-level MGMT courses (Sem: 5–8)
  • Select 3 credits from 300 or 400-level MKTG courses (Sem: 5–8)
  • Select 6–12 additional credits in 300 or 400-level courses from MGMT or MKTG courses (Sem: 6–8)

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Individualized Option

The 18-credit plan must meet the following guidelines:

  • Maximum number of 100-level course work to be accepted in the option: None     

  • Maximum number of 200-level course work to be accepted in the option: 6 credits

  • Maximum number of transfer credits accepted into the option: No limit (transfer credit policies apply)

  • Maximum course work in disciplines other than the following: ACCTG, FIN, FINSV, ENTR, MGMT, MKTG, SCM, STAT, IB, ECON, HPA: 9 credits

  • Maximum number of credits completed more than 5 years before enrollment the program: 6 credits 

  • Maximum number of independent study/special topics course work: 3 credits, must be at the 400-level     

  • Minimum number of 400-level credits completed in business courses from the following: ACCTG, ENTR, FIN, FINSV, IB, MGMT, MKTG, SCM, HPA: 3 credits

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Electives (select 10 credits)

Among the degree requirements, students should incorporate at least 3 credits in U.S. cultures, 3 credits in international (IL) cultures, and 3 credits in writing-across-the-curriculum courses.

This course list includes only courses offered by World Campus. An official degree audit or the recommended academic plan for this program may include additional course options and detailed requirements. All students are expected to complete at least 36 Penn State credits to earn this degree. Please consult an academic adviser for details.

General Education Requirements

Some General Education requirements may be satisfied by courses required for the major. Students should work with an adviser to select courses.

  • Foundations: 15 credits  
    All courses require a grade of C or better. Inter-Domain courses may not be used for foundations requirements. 
    • Writing/Speaking: 9 credits 
    • Quantification: 6 credits 
      3-6 credits are selected from mathematics, applied mathematics, and statistics; 3 credits may be selected from computer science or symbolic logic. 
  • Knowledge Domains: 15 credits  
    Inter-Domain courses may not be used for knowledge domain requirements.
    • Health and Wellness (GHW): 3 credits 
    • Natural Sciences (GN): 3 credits 
    • Arts (GA): 3 credits 
    • Humanities (GH): 3 credits 
    • Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS): 3 credits  
  • Integrative Studies: 6 credits
    • Inter-Domain course work: 6 credits  
  • Exploration: 9 credits 
    • Natural Sciences (GN) (may be Inter-Domain): 3 credits
    • GA, GH, GN, GS, and Inter-Domain courses: 6 credits  
      May include 3 credits of World Language course work beyond the requirements of the student’s degree program or at the 12th credit level, whichever is higher.

These General Education Requirements are for students who started in summer 2023 or later. Students who started earlier can review the prior version of the general education requirements

Course Availability

If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.

Costs and Financial Aid

Undergraduate Tuition

Undergraduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register and the number of total credits you have accrued at or transferred to Penn State.

Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.

2023–24 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2023, spring 2024, and summer 2024 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?If you have 59 or fewer creditsIf you have 60 or more credits
11 or fewer$626 per credit$671 per credit
12–19$7,602 per semester$8,206 per semester

Undergraduate students taking more than 19 credits will be charged the flat tuition rate plus the regular per credit hour rate for each credit above 19. 

2024–25 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2024, spring 2025, and summer 2025 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?If you have 59 or fewer creditsIf you have 60 or more credits
11 or fewer$632 per credit$678 per credit
12–19$7,678 per semester$8,288 per semester

Undergraduate students taking more than 19 credits will be charged the flat tuition rate plus the regular per credit hour rate for each credit above 19. 

Financial Aid and Military Benefits

Some students may qualify for financial aid. Take the time to research financial aid, scholarships, and payment options as you prepare to apply. Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities, as well.

How to Apply

Deadlines and Important Dates

Your degree application, including receipt of all transcripts, must be received by the following deadlines to be considered complete.

  • Fall DeadlineApply by June 30 to start August 26
  • Spring DeadlineApply by October 31 to start January 13
  • Summer DeadlineApply by March 15, 2025, to start May 19, 2025

New students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA by March 1. Please visit the Office of Student Aid website for more information about applying for financial aid and recommended deadlines.

Admissions Help

Thank you for your interest in applying to this program. Contact an admissions counselor to discuss your educational goals, financial aid options, and application deadlines.

Admission Requirements  

The Bachelor of Science in Business is appropriate for individuals who: 

Have completed a minimum of 29.1 college credits with a 2.0 or higher GPA OR have already earned an associate degree OR completed the first two years of a four-year bachelor's degree

AND

Have satisfied the entrance-to-major (ETM) requirements for admission through any of the following methods:

  • completing MATH 022 (College Algebra II and Analytic Geometry) OR a higher-level math course offered by Penn State such as any one of the following:
    • MATH 040 (Algebra, Trigonometry, and Analytic Geometry)
    • MATH 041 (Trigonometry and Analytic Geometry)
    • MATH 110 (Techniques of Calculus I)
    • MATH 140 (Calculus with Analytic Geometry I)
  • completing a precalculus or higher-level course at another accredited institution with a grade of C or better
  • receiving sufficient scores on Advanced Placement calculus exam

Important: Penn State's math placement exam results are NOT sufficient for satisfying the ETM requirement. The requirement must be demonstrated by letter grade or transfer credit. For more information about the ETM requirement for this program, contact an adviser.

Students who have not completed the entrance-to-major requirement for the bachelor's in business may qualify for admission to the associate degree in business administration or may begin study in a pre-business status, with the goal of entering the Bachelor of Science in Business degree program after fulfilling the entrance-to-major requirements. Admissions staff will assist students in selecting the most appropriate starting major. World Campus offers online tutoring services in accounting, statistics, and math if you need additional support in these areas. 

What You Need

Applications are submitted electronically and include a nonrefundable application fee. You will need the following items to complete your application:

High school transcripts or GED transcript — First-year applicants are required to submit Self-Reported Academic Records (SRAR). Official high school transcripts will only be required at the time a student accepts an offer of admission to Penn State.

Official college or university transcripts, if you attended another institution, and/or official military transcripts (if applicable) — All college or university transcripts are required regardless of the length of time that has passed, the grades earned, or the accreditation of the institutions attended. Acceptance of transfer credit toward your degree is subject to final approval by the academic department. For detailed information, see the Transfer Students page.

Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Please send your transcripts by mail or electronically through Parchment, eScrip-Safe, or the National Student Clearinghouse directly to Penn State from the college/university where course work was attempted.

Submit official documents by mail to:

Undergraduate Admissions Office
The Pennsylvania State University
201 Shields Building
University Park PA 16802

English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Language Proficiency section on the Undergraduate Admissions International Requirements page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.

Start Your Application

Former Penn State students may not need to complete the admissions application. Please visit our Returning Students page for instructions. 

If this is your first time applying to Penn State, you'll need to complete the following steps:

  1. Review the application instructions before beginning.
  2. Complete the online application and submit all official documents.
  3. Pay the application fee.

Checking Your Status

You can check the status of your application by using the same login information established for the online application form and choosing "MyPennState — Check Application Status." Your decision letter (confirming your acceptance or denial) will be mailed four to six weeks after receipt of all application materials. An admissions counselor will contact you if additional information is required.

Technical Requirements 

Review the technical requirements for this degree program.

Ready to Learn More?

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Ready to take the next step toward your Penn State bachelor's degree?

Apply by June 30 to start August 26. How to Apply 

Start or Advance Your Career

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A broad understanding of business combined with an immersion into the specialization of your choice and the support of Penn State career resources can expand your career opportunities.


Job Titles Related to This Degree

The following roles are often held by people with this type of degree:

  • Administrative Director
  • Business Manager
  • General Manager (GM)
  • Operations Director
  • Operations Manager

Employment Outlook for Occupational Fields Related to This Degree

Estimates of employment growth and total employment are provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and are subject to change. While these occupations are often pursued by graduates with this degree, individual outcomes may vary depending on a variety of factors. Penn State World Campus cannot guarantee employment in a given occupation.

General and Operations Managers

4.2%
employment growth (10 years)
3,376,680
total employment

Administrative Services Managers

5.6%
employment growth (10 years)
236,570
total employment

Career Services to Set You Up for Success

Student having a virtual meeting on a laptop with a career counselor

From the day you're accepted as a student, you can access resources and tools provided by Penn State World Campus Career Services to further your career. These resources are beneficial whether you're searching for a job or advancing in an established career.

  • Opportunities to connect with employers
  • Career counselor/coach support
  • Occupation and salary information
  • Internships
  • Graduate school resources 

Contact Us

To learn more about the Bachelor of Science in Business, offered in partnership with the business schools from 17 of Penn State's campuses, please contact: 

World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
Email: [email protected]

Faculty

  • Lisa Bertin

    • Degree
      Executive MBA, Kent State University
    • Degree
      B.S., Business Administration, Information Systems Track, Youngstown State University
    • Degree
      A.S., Computer Science, Brunswick Junior College

    Lisa Bertin began teaching both business and IT–related courses at Penn State Shenango in 2001. Professionally, her business experience includes serving as an office controller and account manager. She has received several teaching awards during her time at the University, including the 2015 George W. Atherton Award for Excellence in Teaching. Her research interests include online learning and management information systems. She currently serves on the board of directors for Mercer Area Library, Athena PowerLink, and Lawrence Mercer Athena International.

  • Dipti Bhatt

    • Degree
      M.S., Fashion and Apparel Studies, University of Delaware
    • Degree
      Graduate Certificate in Socially Responsible and Sustainable Apparel Business, University of Delaware
    • Degree
      B.S., Fashion Design, Annamalai University

    Dipti Bhatt is a lecturer of business analytics and management. Her teaching and research focus on consumer behavior, management systems, and sustainability. Prior to joining Penn State, she managed research and reporting activities at a nonprofit organization in the U.S., Better Buying Institute, that helps fashion retailers and other CPG companies improve their purchasing practices toward more sustainable supply chain management. She has several years of experience in managing a global supply chain for a textile buying house in India.

  • Erin A. Brennan

    • Degree
      J.D., Villanova University School of Law
    • Degree
      B.A., English and French, King's College

    Erin A. Brennan is an assistant teaching professor and a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania and New York. She began her teaching career in 2008, while she maintained a full-time legal practice focused on civil litigation in the Federal Courts. She retired from legal practice in 2016 and now teaches courses in business law and sustainability. She devotes substantial effort and research to sustainability efforts and is a founding member of the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Sustainability Council. Her presentations focus on pedagogy, law, and sustainability.

  • Kevin Feifer

    • Degree
      MBA, Misericordia University
    • Degree
      B.S., Business Management, Penn State

    Kevin Feifer teaches marketing and entrepreneurship courses. He is a proud Penn State alumnus with a professional career spanning health care, nonprofit, and small business management. His teaching is focused on engaging students with the community through service-learning experiences to enhance academic content. He has presented at regional and international conferences on the impact of service learning in the classroom.

  • Veronica M. Godshalk

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Business Administration, Drexel University
    • Degree
      M.S., Organizational Dynamics, University of Pennsylvania

    Dr. Veronica (M. Godshalk is a professor of management and associate chief academic officer at Penn State Great Valley. She teaches courses in management, leadership, and strategy. She is the recipient of several teaching awards, including the Teaching and Learning with Technology Fellowship. Dr. Godshalk has published many books and articles; her research interests include career management and mentoring, as well as pedagogy. She recently published a fifth edition of Career Management for Life. Dr. Godshalk worked in the computer industry in sales prior to entering academia.

  • Stephanie Gresh

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Organizational Leadership, Eastern University
    • Degree
      MBA, Rider University
    • Degree
      BSBA, Marketing, Rider University

    As an educator, Dr. Stephanie Gresh seeks to construct an interactive learning environment in the classroom, as she finds that the best learning occurs through interactive discussion and personal reflection. Her research defines a dynamical system as a set of patterns that interact and continually adapt over time, which she has defined as Dynamic Resolve©. She is an active researcher with the International Leadership Association and serves as a co-editor for the journal Industrial and Commercial Training; a special-issue publication was published last year on followership.

  • Kimberley Hemmings-Jarrett

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Information Systems
    • Degree
      B.A., Business Administration

    Dr. Kimberley Hemmings-Jarrett's primary research focus and interests include social media, social computing, text mining, predictive analytics, human-centered computing, the digital divide, and digitally marginalized populations. She has publications with IEEE, ACM, and AIS. Dr. Kim is also participating in the development of the new MIS and data analytics major/minor offerings at the Penn State Abington campus.

  • Kenneth M. Henrie

    • Degree
      DBA, Marketing, Argosy University-Twin Cities
    • Degree
      MBA, New Mexico State University
    • Degree
      B.B.A., Marketing, New Mexico State University

    Dr. Kenneth M. Henrie has developed and taught a wide variety of marketing courses both in the United States and the United Kingdom. His teaching interests focus mostly on sales, consumer behavior, and sports marketing. His research focus includes consumer response to persuasion and innovative uses of technology in pedagogy.

  • Joseph S. Honer

    • Degree
      J.D., Rutgers University
    • Degree
      L.L.M., Taxation, Villanova University
    • Degree
      B.B.A., Accounting and Finance, Loyola University Maryland

    Joseph S. Honer's interest is in teaching accounting and finance and trying to relate these lessons to real-world, everyday circumstances. He believes that accounting and finance have tangential relationships to everything a student will do after they graduate and that fundamental financial lessons can greatly improve a student's earning and saving capacity for the rest of their life.

  • Ali Kara

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Marketing, Florida International University
    • Degree
      M.S., Management, Cukurova University
    • Degree
      MBA, Marketing, University of Bridgeport
    • Degree
      B.A., Business, Cukurova University

    Dr. Ali Kara is a professor of marketing and the discipline coordinator of the Business and Economics Division of University College. He has published in such academic journals as Journal of Marketing Research, Journal of Advertising, International Journal of Research in Marketing, European Journal of Operations Research, and Omega. Dr. Kara teaches a variety of marketing courses. His research focuses on statistical modeling, model comparisons, and identifying segments using data.

  • Thomas Kramer

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Human Resource Development, The University of Texas at Tyler
    • Degree
      MBA, Shepherd University
    • Degree
      B.S., Aeronautical Science, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

    Dr. Thomas Kramer, assistant teaching professor of management, focuses his research and scholarly activity on social power and talent development with a particular emphasis on organizational justice. He teaches courses in human resource management, leadership and motivation, and project management.

  • Kevin Mayhew

    • Degree
      M.S., Information Technology, University of Maryland, Baltimore County
    • Degree
      M.S., Cybersecurity, California University of Pennsylvania
    • Degree
      PMP, Certified Project Manager, Project Management Institute

    Kevin Mayhew's research interests involve technology and its use in a wide range of industries. He has owned his own consulting business and worked for major U.S. and international companies in the government, retail, distribution, supply chain, software development, logistics, insurance, financial, and telecommunications sectors. His teaching interests include project management, business analysis, systems analysis, analytics, and software development consulting.

  • Shantanu Namjoshi

    • Degree
      MBA, Finance, Gonzaga University
    • Degree
      M.S. and Ph.D., Materials Science and Engineering, Georgia Tech

    Dr. Shantanu Namjoshi worked for the Air Force Research Lab in Dayton, Ohio, before moving to academia. He was the principal investigator on various projects for the DOE and NSF. His teaching interests are in finance.

  • Soomin Park

    Degree
    Ph.D., Operations and Supply Chain Management, SUNY Buffalo

    Dr. Soomin Park, an assistant teaching professor, teaches Intro to Statistics for Business, Operations Planning and Control, and Purchasing and Materials Management at the undergraduate level. He is also an Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM)–recognized instructor for CPIM and a certified SAP applications associate.

  • Seth Powless

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Higher Education, University of Toledo
    • Degree
      MBA, University of Toledo
    • Degree
      M.Ed., Education, University of Toledo
    • Degree
      B.A., Political Science, University of Toledo

    Dr. Seth Powless, assistant teaching professor of business, focuses his research and publications on disaster operations and logistics at both the organizational and consumer levels. His research explores the application of the Theory of Constraints to applied problems in sports logistics, retail operations, and supply chain technologies. Dr. Powless is a regularly invited workshop host at DSI and POMS in the areas of project and supply chain management pedagogy. Dr. Powless teaches a wide array of courses in PSCM, human resources, leadership, management, and marketing.

  • Ellen M. Raineri

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Organization and Management, Capella University
    • Degree
      MBA, Information Security, Marywood University
    • Degree
      Graduate Certificate, Information Assurance and Security, Kaplan University
    • Degree
      B.A., Computer Science, Wilkes University
    • Degree
      B.A., English and Education, Wilkes University

    Dr. Ellen Raineri led corporate initiatives for new technology and cyber security products and services. She has been an author, strategic planner, entrepreneur, and commercial real estate broker. Dr. Raineri's research interests include business ethics, entrepreneurship, and management. Her book, endorsed by Mark Victor Hansen (Chicken Soup for the Soul series), Ken Blanchard (One Minute Manager), Alan Cohen, and Gerald Jampolsky, prompted interviews on Lifetime TV, radio, newspaper, and online media.  Dr. Raineri’ is an Assistant Teaching Professor and Lead Faculty of  BA243.  She received the Teaching Excellence Award and the Excellence in Business Award.

  • Michael Ridenour

    • Degree
      M.S., Accounting, Saint Vincent College
    • Degree
      B.A., Accounting, Washington and Jefferson College

    Michael Ridenour teaches a number of accounting courses ranging from financial accounting to taxation. He has worked for the Internal Revenue Service and several certified public accountant firms. He also owns and operates a tax service business. 

  • Lisa Robinson

    • Degree
      MBA, Alvernia University
    • Degree
      B.S., Business Administration, Alvernia University

    Lisa Robinson is a business lecturer in the business administration program. Lisa works closely with the local community on her research projects, including breaking down the barriers to communication. She is also working on a faculty database to showcase other faculties' research for the community. Lisa is an adviser to the local Phi Beta Lambda chapter.

  • Frank M. Sorokach

    • Degree
      MBA, Wilkes University
    • Degree
      B.S., Business, Misericordia University
    • Degree
      A.S., Education, Luzerne County Community College

    Frank M. Sorokach teaches economics, project management, business strategy, risk management, and marketing courses. He is the lead instructor and course designer for MIS 204 at Penn State World Campus. He has more than 20 years of applied management and business ownership experience in varied disciplines and has taught for more than 15 years. His research interests include process management, technology integration, risk, and business disruption. He focuses on the application of new concepts, systems, and technologies to improve business, specifically in the integration of technology and management theory.

  • Sabrin Stewart

    • Degree
      M.S., Accounting, City University of New York, Lehman College
    • Degree
      Bachelor of Business Administration, Ain Shams University

    Sabrin Stewart, an assistant professor of accounting, is working on her doctorate at Jacksonville University, majoring in accounting and finance. Sabrin has taught accounting at Ashland University, Eastern Gateway Community College, and Washtenaw Community College. She started her career as an experienced tax accountant with one of the “Big Four” companies: PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), where she gained tremendous experience in corporate taxes.

  • John Paul Weber

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Organization and Management, Capella University
    • Degree
      MBA, Finance, LaSalle University
    • Degree
      B.A., Communications, Temple University

    Dr. John Paul Weber is an associate teaching professor who teaches various business-related courses for both Penn State Berks and Penn State World Campus. Dr. Weber maintains a Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Broker of Record real estate license. His research interests include real estate, higher education course delivery methods, and the employer/employee relationship.

  • Gina C. Whalen

    • Degree
      D.Ed., Adult Education, Penn State
    • Degree
      M.S., Organizational Management, Misericordia University
    • Degree
      B.S., Business Logistics, Penn State

    Dr. Gina C. Whalen teaches courses in management and leadership. Prior to joining Penn State as a faculty member and program director for the World Campus business program, she held educational leadership roles in the training and development field. Her passion for the success of adult learners led to an appointment on Penn State’s Commission for Adult Learners. She also serves at the national level as vice president of Alpha Sigma Lambda, the national honor society for adult students. Her research interests include transformative learning, autoethnography, and adult learners in higher education.

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