Thinking about earning your business degree online from the University of Florida? UF Online offers two distinct paths to earning a business administration degree: the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) and the Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration (BABA). While both degrees cover essential business principles, they differ in terms of academic focus, program structure and career flexibility.
UF Online’s business program was ranked No. 1 for Best Online Bachelor’s Program in Business by U.S. News & World Report 2025. With a median annual wage of $90,580 for business and financial occupations according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, choosing either a B.S. or B.A. in Business is a smart investment. Explore the key differences between the BSBA and BABA to determine which path best aligns with your academic and professional goals.
Understanding the Differences Between BSBA and BABA
What is a BSBA degree?
What does BSBA stand for?
BSBA stands for Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. This degree is ideal for students who prefer a technical, analytical approach to understanding business. The BSBA program focuses on developing in-depth knowledge and skills in specific areas like economics, finance, accounting, and operations.
Plans of Study and Course Descriptions for a BSBA
The BSBA program at UF Online includes core courses in business statistics, financial accounting, business law, marketing and operations management. These courses are designed to strengthen students’ quantitative reasoning and strategic thinking, preparing them for careers in data-driven business roles. Students follow a structured course plan that prioritizes financial and operational analysis.
Exploring Career Paths with a BSBA
B.S. in Business graduates are well-prepared for roles that demand strong technical and financial acumen. Common career paths include financial analyst, operations manager, business consultant, and accountant. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, accountants and auditors earned a median salary of $81,680 in 2024, with employment expected to grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033. These numbers reflect the growing demand for professionals who can bring quantitative insights to business strategy.
What is a BABA degree?
What does BABA stand for?
BABA stands for Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration. This flexible degree blends core business training with an interdisciplinary area of specialization outside the traditional business curriculum. It’s perfect for students who want to combine business knowledge with interests in other fields like sociology, mass communication or sport management.
Exploring Career Paths with a BABA
Because of its customizable nature, a B.A. in Business can lead to a wide variety of career paths, including marketing, human resources management, nonprofit leadership, event planning or media. One popular role among graduates is a market research analyst, which blends business savvy with data interpretation and communication skills. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this field is expected to grow by 8.3% from 2023 to 2033, far outpacing the average for all occupations.
Plans of Study and Course Descriptions for a BABA
The University of Florida’s BABA degree program includes coursework in core business topics like economics, marketing and management, while also requiring students to choose one of 11 specializations. These specializations include Anthropology, Business and Economic Geography, Computer and Information Science, Educational Studies, Event Management, General Studies, Geology, Mass Communication, Sociology, Sport Management and Travel and Tourism Managment. This structure allows students to personalize their education while gaining practical skills in both business and their area of interest.
Is a BS or BA better for business?
When weighing the choice of a BA vs. BS in Business, consider your career goals and personal interests. If you are more analytical and thrive in structured, quantitative environments, a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration may be the right choice. It prepares students for technical roles in finance, business operations and data analysis.
If you value creative solutions and want to explore how business principles apply in certain fields, a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration might be a better fit. The BABA degree gives students the chance to pair business knowledge with an area of specialization, creating a unique path that reflects their goals and interests.
How to Decide Between BSBA and BABA
To choose the right degree for you, consider what excites you most about studying business. Are you interested in understanding the numbers behind business decisions? Or do you want to learn how business applies in broader industry-specific or creative contexts? Think about the courses that motivate you and the career you envision. If you’re still unsure which option to choose, speak with an admissions officer now for individualized guidance on which path is best for you.
Benefits of Earning Your Business Degree Online with UF
At UF Online, both the BSBA and BABA programs offer the flexibility to pursue your education from anywhere in the world. Students learn from the same world-class instructors who teach on campus and receive access to support services like academic advising, career coaching and tech assistance. You’ll join a vibrant online community that’s focused on helping you succeed from application to graduation.
To learn more and compare both degree programs in-depth, visit the UF Online Business Administration program page. Ready to take the next step? Explore application deadlines, admission requirements, and financial aid options to apply today.
