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Business Courses in USA – Top Programs, Fees & Careers

Business courses in USA include a wide range of programs like BBA, MBA, business analytics, and international business—available as full-time, part-time, or short-term business courses in USA. Most undergraduate business degrees (like BBA or BSBA) take 4 years, while Master’s programs, including MBAs, usually last 1–2 years. Many universities also offer online business courses USA for international students, making it easier to learn from anywhere. This guide covers the top business schools in USA, types of programs, fees for business programs in USA, scholarship options, admission steps, and career options after business studies in USA.

Explore Business-Focused Programs in USA
Top Business Courses in USA – Blog Overview
Business Management Courses in USA – UpGrad List
Bachelor’s in Business in USA – Explore UG Options

MS & MBA Pathways for Business Aspirants
MS in International Business in USA
One-Year MBA Programs in USA – Accelerated Track
USA Country Page – All Programs

Top Universities Offering Business Courses
Harvard University – Rankings & Business Programs
Cornell University – Business & Management Focus
Explore All Master’s Programs in USA

Highlights: Business Courses in USA for International Students

Feature

Details

Popular Degrees

BBA, MBA, MS in Business Analytics, Master’s in Finance, Global MBA

Program Duration

BBA: 4 years, MBA/MS: 1–2 years

Eligibility

Bachelor’s degree (for PG), SAT (for UG), IELTS/TOEFL, work experience (for MBA)

Top Intakes

Fall (Aug–Sep), Spring (Jan)

Medium of Instruction

English

Average Tuition Fees

UG: $25,000–$45,000/year (₹21–₹37 lakhs); PG: $30,000–$65,000/year (₹25–₹54 lakhs)

Living Expenses

$12,000–$18,000/year (₹10–₹15 lakhs)

Top Universities

Harvard, Wharton, Stanford, NYU Stern, UC Berkeley, University of Chicago Booth

Popular Specializations

Business Analytics, Marketing, Finance, Entrepreneurship, Supply Chain

Post-Study Work Visa

OPT up to 1 year (3 years for STEM-designated programs like Analytics)

Average Starting Salary

$70,000–$110,000/year (₹58–₹91 lakhs), higher for MBA grads

Compare Business Program Structures
One-Year MBA in USA – Pros & Entry Routes
MS in International Business – Course Details

Types of Business Courses in USA for International Students

International students can choose from a wide range of business courses in USA, based on academic level, career stage, and specialization goals. Undergraduate programs like BBA and BS in Business offer foundational skills. Postgraduate options include MBA, MS in Business Analytics (MSBA), MiM, and domain-specific degrees like MS in Marketing. For working professionals, Executive MBAs and online business courses USA provide flexible options. Short-term diplomas and certificates also help build targeted expertise.

Entry requirements vary by course type. Most programs require academic transcripts, English proficiency, and relevant test scores like SAT, GMAT, or GRE.

Business Courses in USA – Academic Levels and Focus Areas

Program Type

Examples

Ideal For

Undergraduate

BBA, BS in Business, BS in International Business

12th pass students aiming for foundational business education

Postgraduate

MBA, MSBA, MiM, MS in Marketing, MS in Finance

Graduates aiming for managerial or analytical roles

Executive/Online MBA

Executive MBA (EMBA), Online MBA (AACSB-accredited)

Mid-career professionals needing flexible formats

Certificates/Diplomas

Business Management, Digital Marketing, Finance

Skill-based learning in 6–12 months duration

Common Business Specializations for International Students

  • Business Analytics Courses USA – Focus on data tools, predictive modeling, and market insights
  • International Business Courses in USA – Emphasis on global trade, policy, and cross-border strategy
  • Marketing and Digital Business – Covers branding, digital strategy, and customer behavior
  • Finance and Investment – Prepares for roles in banking, valuation, and corporate finance

Understand USA Admission & Visa Process
Student Visa for USA – Full Breakdown
USA Study Visa Requirements
Spring Intake in USA – Key Info

Top Business Courses in USA for International Students

International students have access to a wide range of business courses in USA, from undergraduate programs like BBA to specialized master’s degrees like MSBA, MS in Marketing, and MiM, and professional degrees like the MBA

Here’s a breakdown of the most popular business degrees in USA.

MBA – Master of Business Administration

An MBA in USA is ideal for professionals with 2–5 years of work experience seeking leadership roles in consulting, product management, and strategy.

Factor

Details

Top Business Schools in USA

Duration

2 years (some 1-year formats available)

Harvard, Wharton, Kellogg, Booth, MIT Sloan

Fees (Per Year)

$65,000 – $80,000 (₹54 – ₹66 lakhs)

Private B-schools cost more than public

Eligibility

UG degree, 2–5 yrs experience, GMAT/GRE, IELTS 6.5+

SOP, Resume, 2–3 LORs required

Some MBA programs offer STEM tracks, allowing for up to 36 months OPT.

MS in Business Analytics (MSBA)

This STEM-designated business analytics course USA prepares students for data-focused roles using tools like Python, R, and SQL. It is well-suited for those with math, engineering, or business backgrounds.

Factor

Details

Top Universities

Duration

12–18 months (full-time)

MIT Sloan, USC Marshall, UCLA, UT Austin

Fees (Total)

$40,000 – $60,000 (₹33 – ₹50 lakhs)

Financial aid available in some programs

Eligibility

UG in STEM or business, GMAT/GRE, IELTS 6.5+

SOP, resume, and strong math skills needed

MSBA offers a 36-month OPT benefit under USA STEM visa rules.

MS in Marketing

An MS in Marketing focuses on brand strategy, digital campaigns, customer analytics, and marketing automation. It’s ideal for recent grads with creative or communication backgrounds.

Factor

Details

Top Universities

Duration

12–16 months

Columbia, NYU Stern, University of Florida

Fees (Total)

$35,000 – $55,000 (₹29 – ₹46 lakhs)

Scholarships available at select schools

Eligibility

UG in business or related field, IELTS 6.5+, no work exp required

GMAT optional in many programs

Some MS in Marketing programs include optional internships or capstone projects.

Master’s in Management (MiM)

The MiM is a pre-experience business degree for recent graduates. It covers core management areas like finance, strategy, leadership, and international business.

Factor

Details

Top Universities

Duration

10–18 months

Duke Fuqua, Michigan Ross, Kellogg, Wake Forest

Fees (Total)

$40,000 – $60,000 (₹33 – ₹50 lakhs)

Lower than most MBA programs

Eligibility

UG degree in any stream, no work experience required

GMAT/GRE optional, IELTS 6.5+

Ideal for those comparing MBA vs BBA in USA and seeking early-career global exposure.

BBA/Undergraduate Business Programs

BBA and BS in Business programs in USA offer a foundation in finance, marketing, operations, and entrepreneurship. These are ideal for high school graduates planning long-term business careers.

Factor

Details

Top Universities

Duration

4 years

NYU Stern, UC Berkeley Haas, Indiana Kelley

Fees (Per Year)

$25,000 – $45,000 (₹21 – ₹37 lakhs)

Public universities offer better value

Eligibility

12th-grade completion, IELTS 6.0+, SAT/ACT (some waive)

SOP and LORs may be required

BBA graduates can later pursue MBA or best short-term business courses in USA to specialize further.

Know the Total Cost of Studying Business in USA
Cost of Master’s Programs in USA
Living Expenses in USA – Budget Tips

Scholarship Options for Indian Business Students
How to Get a Scholarship in USA – Indian Students
Scholarships for MS Programs in USA
Fully Funded Scholarships – Business Degrees Included

Curriculum: Business Courses in USA

The curriculum for business courses in USA is designed to build strong analytical, managerial, and leadership skills. Programs like BBA, MBA, MS in Marketing, and Business Analytics courses USA follow a mix of core subjects, electives, and experiential components. Students work on case studies, simulations, group projects, and often complete a capstone project or global consulting module in their final term.

Coursework varies by program level (undergraduate vs postgraduate), but most top business schools in USA follow a structured model with 36–60 credit hours across 1–2 years.

Course Structure – Business Programs in USA (UG & PG)

Component

Topics Covered

Applies To

Core Courses

Finance, Accounting, Marketing, Strategy, Economics

All BBA, MBA, MSBA, MiM programs

Electives

Digital Business, Supply Chain, Negotiation, Ethics

Usually in Year 2 (or final semester)

Capstone/Thesis

Consulting projects, business plans, data-driven reports

Required in MBA, MSBA, and MiM

Case Study Method

Real-world business scenarios from companies like Amazon, McKinsey, or P&G

Common in MBA programs

Simulation Labs

Risk management, marketing strategy, or pricing simulations using business tools

Found in MSBA and some MBA tracks

Global Immersions

Short-term study abroad or virtual exchange with partner schools

Offered at top B-schools like Wharton, Kellogg

Many online business courses USA for international students include the same curriculum format with flexibility in delivery and project timelines.

Top University Lists for Business Students
Public Universities in USA – Business Programs
All USA Universities
How to Get into Ivy League Colleges from India

Intake Cycles for Business Programs in USA

Business courses in USA follow fixed intake cycles, with Fall (August/September) as the primary round. Spring intake (January) is available for select programs, mostly non-MBA master’s degrees. Rolling deadlines are common in Executive MBAs and online business programs, allowing professionals to apply throughout the year.

Deadlines differ between early action, regular, and final rounds, and applying early improves your chances for scholarships for business students in USA.

Intake Cycles – Business Schools in USA (2025)

Intake Term

Application Window

Applicable Programs

Fall Intake

September – January

All BBA, MBA, MSBA, MiM, and certificate courses

Spring Intake

June – October

Some MSBA, MS in Marketing, MiM

Rolling Admissions

Open year-round

Executive MBA, Online MBA, short-term certificates

Round-wise Application Tips

  • Round 1 (Sept–Oct): Best for scholarships and early interviews
  • Round 2 (Nov–Jan): Still competitive; more applicants, fewer funding spots
  • Round 3 (Feb–Mar): Final round; limited availability for seats and aid

For MBA vs BBA in USA, MBA intakes follow rounds, while BBA deadlines usually depend on the university’s UG admission cycle (often early Jan for Fall).

Eligibility Criteria & Entrance Exams
What Exams Are Required to Study in USA
5.5 IELTS Score Accepting Universities
GRE Section Breakdown – For MS Business Programs

Eligibility Criteria for Business Courses in USA

Eligibility for business courses in USA depends on the level of the program—12th-grade completion for undergraduate, and a bachelor’s degree for postgraduate. Most universities require English proficiency scores (IELTS/TOEFL) and a minimum GPA. For MBA and some specialized master’s programs like business analytics courses USAGMAT or GRE scores may be mandatory. Work experienceSOP, and LORs are also key components, especially for competitive MBA programs.

Eligibility for Business Courses in USA – UG and PG Requirements

Requirement

Undergraduate (BBA/BS)

Postgraduate (MBA, MSBA, MiM)

Academic Qualification

12th-grade (CBSE/ISC/state board)

Recognized bachelor’s degree

GPA Requirement

Min 3.0 GPA or 75%+ in Indian grading

Min 3.0 GPA or equivalent (varies by school)

English Proficiency

IELTS 6.0+/TOEFL iBT 80+

IELTS 6.5+/TOEFL iBT 90+

Standardized Tests

SAT/ACT (some waive)

GMAT/GRE (mandatory for some MBAs)

SOP & LORs

Optional at UG level

Mandatory – 1 SOP + 2–3 LORs

Work Experience

Not required

2–5 years preferred for MBA programs

For online business courses USA for international students, test scores may be relaxed but English proficiency still applies.

Global Comparisons for Business Degrees
USA vs Germany – For Business Graduates
Canada vs USA – MBA & MS Career Outcomes

Admission Process for Business Courses in USA

The admission process for business courses USA is handled through the Common App for undergraduate programs (like BBA in USA) and university-specific portals for postgraduate programs (MBA, MSBA, MiM). Applications must include academic transcripts, test scores, a resume (PG), SOP, and LORs. MBA programs at top business schools in USA often require an interview round after document screening.

Intake timelines vary. UG programs follow Fall deadlines (early action, regular), while MBA and master’s programs follow a multi-round system.

Admission Steps – Business Programs in USA

Stage

UG (BBA/BS in Business)

PG (MBA, MSBA, MiM)

Step 1 – Application

Through Common App or university website

University-specific portal

Step 2 – Documents

12th marksheet, IELTS/TOEFL, SAT/ACT

UG degree, IELTS/TOEFL, GMAT/GRE, SOP, LORs

Step 3 – Review Process

Profile-based shortlisting

May include virtual/recorded interview

Step 4 – Decision

Offer letter via email or portal

Usually 6–10 weeks after application

Tips for International Applicants

  • Apply in early rounds for best chances at scholarships for business students in USA
  • Keep your SOP course-specific (don’t reuse generic business templates)
  • MBA vs BBA in USA: BBA has fixed deadlines; MBA accepts in multiple rounds (R1, R2, R3)

Cost of Studying Business Courses in USA

The average cost of business courses in USA ranges from $25,000 to $80,000 per year (₹21–₹66 lakhs), depending on the program type and location. MBAs at top business schools in USA cost more than undergraduate or short-term certificate programs. Students also need to budget for living expenseshealth insurance, and visa charges—especially in cities like New York, Boston, and San Francisco where housing costs are high.

Fees for Business Programs in USA – Annual Estimates (USD & INR)

Program Type

Tuition Fee (USD)

Tuition in INR (Approx.)

BBA/BS in Business $25,000 – $45,000 ₹21 – ₹37 lakhs
MBA $55,000 – $80,000 ₹45 – ₹66 lakhs
MSBA/MS in Marketing $35,000 – $60,000 ₹29 – ₹50 lakhs
Certificate/Short-Term $5,000 – $15,000 ₹4 – ₹12 lakhs
Online MBA (Top Schools) $25,000 – $40,000 ₹21 – ₹33 lakhs

Fees for business programs in USA vary by university ranking, program format, and city.

Estimated Annual Living Costs by City in USA (International Students)

City

Living Cost (USD)

Living Cost in INR

New York $22,000 – $28,000 ₹18 – ₹23 lakhs
San Francisco $20,000 – $26,000 ₹16 – ₹21 lakhs
Boston $18,000 – $24,000 ₹15 – ₹20 lakhs
Chicago $16,000 – $22,000 ₹13 – ₹18 lakhs
Austin/Atlanta $14,000 – $18,000 ₹11 – ₹15 lakhs

Other Mandatory Expenses

  • F-1 Visa + SEVIS Fee: $510 total (₹42,000)
  • Health Insurance: $1,500 – $2,000 per year (₹1.2 – ₹1.6 lakhs)
  • Books & Materials: $1,000 – $2,000 (₹83,000 – ₹1.6 lakhs)

Career Scope After Business Courses in USA

Completing business courses in USA opens up direct pathways into roles across consulting, finance, marketing, analytics, operations, and HR. Job placement is often influenced by your degree type (MBA vs MSBA vs BBA), specialization, and university network. Graduates from top business schools in USA often secure roles with starting salaries between $60,000 and $120,000/year (₹50–₹99 lakhs).

International students can also apply for OPT (12–36 months) and CPT, which allow temporary work in USA after graduation.

Career Options After Business Studies in USA – Job Roles & Salaries

Job Title

Average Salary (USD)

Salary in INR (Approx.)

Business Analyst $70,000 – $90,000 ₹58 – ₹75 lakhs
Marketing Manager $75,000 – $100,000 ₹62 – ₹83 lakhs
Financial Analyst $65,000 – $85,000 ₹54 – ₹70 lakhs
HR Business Partner $60,000 – $80,000 ₹50 – ₹66 lakhs
Management Consultant $90,000 – $120,000 ₹75 – ₹99 lakhs
Product Marketing Specialist $72,000 – $95,000 ₹60 – ₹78 lakhs
Operations Analyst $68,000 – $88,000 ₹56 – ₹73 lakhs

Business analytics courses USA often lead to high-demand data roles in tech and consulting.

Top Hiring Sectors for Business Graduates

Industry

Popular Roles

Recruiters

Technology Analyst, PM, Marketing Manager Amazon, Google, Meta, Microsoft
Finance Investment Analyst, Financial Planning Manager JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, Citi, Visa
Consulting Business Strategy, Digital Consultant McKinsey, BCG, Deloitte, Accenture
FMCG/Retail Brand Manager, Sales Strategy Analyst P&G, Unilever, Nestlé, PepsiCo
Startups Ops Manager, Business Development Executive VC-backed tech and e-commerce startups

Work Options for International Students (CPT/OPT)

  • OPT (Optional Practical Training):
    – 12 months for most business programs
    – 36 months if the degree qualifies as STEM (e.g., MSBA or analytics-focused MiM)
  • CPT (Curricular Practical Training):
    – Can be used during the course for internships
    – Requires a training agreement with the employer and school

Free Courses to Start Your Business Career Planning
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290 results found

Bachelor of Arts / Bachleor of Science in Economics

Elmhurst University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 131.18L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Finance, BS

University of Pennsylvania, USA

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 45.53L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

Master of Management Studies in Global Business and Society(GBS)

Yale University, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 71.12L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

BS Business Analytics

Northern Arizona University, USA

  • DURATION
    Online:1 Year
    On-campus:3 Years
  • FEES
    Online: INR 5,08,500 per annum
    On-campus: USD 27,540 per annum

Management M.P.S.

Cornell University, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 23.90L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Business Analytics and Risk Management Master of Science

Johns Hopkins University, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 49.41L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Bachelor of Business Administration

University of Michigan, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 49.37L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

BS Hospitality Management

Colorado State University, USA

  • DURATION
    Online:1 Year
    On-campus:3 Years
  • FEES
    Online: INR 5,08,500 per annum
    On-campus: USD 32,984 per annum

Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration

North Park University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 109.75L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.0
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Business Analytics

Western Illinois University , USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 7.27L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Business

Western Oregon University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 21.13L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

BS Business

Colorado State University, USA

  • DURATION
    Online:1 Year
    On-campus:3 Years
  • FEES
    Online: INR 5,08,500 per annum
    On-campus: USD 32,984 per annum

Monetary economics-financial markets

Eastern Illinois University, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 10.73L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

M.S. Operations and Supply Management

University of Wisconsin Stout, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year 6 Months
  • FEES
    INR 21.49L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

Bachelor of Arts in Business, Entrepreneurship, and Organizations

Brown University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 57.84L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

BS Business

Golden Gate University, USA

  • DURATION
    Online:1 Year
    On-campus:3 Years
  • FEES
    Online: INR 5,08,500 per annum
    On-campus: USD 9,800 per annum

MS in Management

University of Richmond, USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 52.52L (Total)
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2024
View details

Business Studies - B.S.

Johnson & Wales University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 33.84L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

Master in Professional Business Analytics

University of Texas Austin, USA

  • DURATION
    10 Months
  • FEES
    INR 16.03L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA)

University of Washington, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 24.26L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    JUN 2025
View details

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

Bucknell University, USA

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 41.80L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2024
View details

Enterprise Technology Integration-B.S.

Penn State University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 20.76L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

General Business (BBA)

Southern Arkansas University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 9.13L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Business Marketing Education BS

Utah Valley University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 12.50L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

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