50 Most Innovative Small College Business Departments 2015

Business Research Guide - Most Innovative College Business Department
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By Melissa Maypole
Posted September 2015

Today’s rapidly changing business world demands an education that goes beyond “business as usual.” When choosing a degree program, it’s imperative that you do your homework to ensure that the school’s business department has kept up with the latest trends and technology and is capable of providing you with the kind of cutting-edge business education you’ll need to be successful in an interconnected, global marketplace. We’ve made the job easier for you by evaluating hundreds of small college business departments to find the 50 that we believe to be the most innovative in terms of the types of degrees they offer and their instructional approaches.

Rating and Ranking Methodology

Progressive Majors and/or Course Offerings

-Progressive major(s) offered: 2 points
-Progressive course(s) offered: 1 point

Global Business Emphasis

-Study abroad opportunities: 2 points
-Global business classes offered: 1 point
-Online Offerings: 1 point
-Connections to Local Businesses: 1 point
-Technology Focus: 1 point
-Sustainability Focus: 1 point
-Experiential Learning Focus: 1 point

Wow Factor

-1 point awarded for each unique feature or program that “wowed” us

The following schools have been selected as a result of their size (i.e. under 5000 undergraduate students) and their dedication to innovation, as defined by applying the rating methodology above. We list them here by the number of points awarded using the ranking system. In cases where two or more departments were awarded the same number of points, we’ve listed them in alphabetical order by college name.

#50 – Dillard University

College of Business

New Orleans, Louisiana

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Points: 4
Net Price: $14,872
The mission of the College of Business at Dillard College is to educate leaders for the global market. In addition to coursework that exposes students to theory in international business, students will have the opportunity to participate in annual study abroad opportunities, giving them first-hand knowledge of the global business scene. Valuable internship opportunities are also available, including the Tabasco Internship Program, which enables students to compete with students from other universities as they test marketing and advertising strategies.  The school offers three Bachelor degree programs: B. A. in Accounting, B.A. in Financial Economics, and B.A. in Business Management.

#49 – Graceland University

CH Sandage School of Business

Lamoni, Iowa

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Points: 4
Net Price: $17,969
Not only does Graceland University’s CH Sandage School of Business offer one of the widest ranges of business education degree programs on our list, it is also home to an award-winning Enactus team (formerly known as Students in Free Enterprise). The team won the National Championship and competed in the World Cup against 44 other countries, coming out in second place. The School of Business is one of the largest at Graceland University and encompasses the Sandage Center for the Study of Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship and the Annual Entrepreneurial Roundtable.

#48 – Johnson C. Smith University

Department of Business Administration

Charlotte, North Carolina

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Points: 4
Net Price:$19,032
The Department of Business Administration at Johnson. C. Smith University focuses on preparing students to become industry leaders in an ever-changing business environment. To do this, the faculty makes use of the latest technology and innovative, out-of-the-box teaching methods that help students apply business theory to real-world scenarios and case studies. In addition, Charlotte is home to 365 Fortune 500 companies such as Lowe’s, Bank of America, and Duke Energy, making it a great place for business majors to make local connections through internships and networking opportunities.

#47 – LeTourneau University

School of Business & Technology

Longview, Texas

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Points: 4
Net Price: $21,434
RG LeTourneau, founder of LeTourneau University, was also an inventor and entrepreneur who believed innovative technology was the key to a great business. Today, the University’s School of Business & Technology honors his legacy by embracing the latest technologies and innovative teaching methods to create global business leaders. Aspiring students can study on campus or through online programs to complete undergraduate and graduate degree programs in management, business administration, and accounting among related specialties. Either way, students will receive a solid business education delivered via a faith-based perspective.

#46 – Franklin & Marshall College

Business, Organizations, and Society Department

Lancaster, Pennsylvania

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Points: 4
Net Price: $22,974
The Business, Organizations, and Society Department at Franklin University has recently been revamped to reflect a broader scope of business and liberal arts principles and to fully embrace innovative teaching techniques such as digital storytelling. Students are even allowed to manage the college’s endowment funds through the Student-Managed Investment Portfolio. Franklin & Marshall has been formally recognized as one of the top business education schools in preparing students for the professional world by the Aspen Institute’s Undergraduate Business Education Consortium.

#45 – Alaska Pacific University

Department of Business Administration

Anchorage, Alaska

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Points: 4
Net Price: $25,306
Alaska Pacific University’s Department of Business Administration offers several different options for students interested in pursuing a career in business, including an Executive MBA in Information and Communication Technology. Students can attend classes online and still meet face-to-face with their professors, making programs flexible for students who work. The school’s experienced faculty act as not only instructors, but mentors as well, and small class sizes make it possible to form lasting bonds with teachers. Accelerated programs help students remain motivated to achieve their goals and enable them to obtain their education and get on with the business of changing the world.

#44 – Elizabeth City State University

Department of Business and Economics

Elizabeth City, North Carolina

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Points: 5
Net Price: $2,490
The Elizabeth City State University’s Department of Business and Economics is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a distinction shared by only 5% of business schools across the world. The school’s research based curriculum makes use of advanced technology to prepare students for the rapidly advancing modern business world. For example, the Finance Lab at the university houses 13 dual-screen trading stations. Students at Elizabeth City State can pursue one of two degree paths: the Bachelor of Science in Accounting and the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.

#43 – Coppin State University

College of Business

Baltimore, Maryland

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Points: 5
Net Price: $9,407
Coppin State University’s focus on experiential learning benefits students by providing hands-on, cooperative, and interactive learning experiences including internships, partnerships, and co-op experiences. The new, cutting-edge business management program can be taken entirely online, but students who choose a more traditional educational experience can participate in activities such as Business Dress Wednesdays, business etiquette workshops, and opportunities to pitch ideas in real boardrooms. In additional to traditional business course offerings, the school offers degree paths in both sports management and entertainment management.

#42 – University of Mount Olive

Business Administration Department

Mount Olive, North Carolina

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Points: 5
Net Price: $12,245
The University of Mount Olive provides business degree opportunities for both daytime and evening students, making it one of the more flexible education options for those with full time work schedules. Students may receive a BS in areas including accounting, agribusiness, business analytics, business management, management information systems, healthcare management and human resources. Aspiring graduates are encouraged to follow a well-structured 4-Year Advising Plan, particularly in business management, but can also work individually with their advisors in designing the course load that’s right for them.

#41 – Ohio Valley University

College of Business

Vienna, West Virginia

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Points: 5
Net Price: $17,851
The College of Business at Ohio Valley University strives to maintain current with the evolving business marketplace and its increasingly competitive expectations. The Gene and Joyce Wharton School of Information Technology and Business equip budding specialists for the high standard of technology expertise, providing the relevant certifications required as technology professionals in the business community. Other degree tracks of the College of Business include the School of Professional Studies, Energy Management & Production Engineering (EMPE), and Sports Management.

#40 – York College

Business Studies Department

York College, Nebraska

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Points: 5
Net Price: $17,943
One of the largest academic programs at York College, the Elijah A. Levitt School of Business prepares students to lead and become significant contributors to careers spanning public relations, government, banking, education, and sports management among others. With its 12-to-1 student-teacher ratio, business administration majors receive the utmost individual instruction as they prepare to advance to their career of focus. YC’s Levitt School additionally maximizes opportunities for its students by collaborating and combining business education with other academic departments that include Education and Communications and Speech.

#39 – Alliant International University

Alliant’s School of Management

San Diego, California

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Points: 5
Net Price: $18,078
Located in one of the most diverse regions in the world, Alliant International University focuses on preparing students to be leaders in a global business world. With successful alumni practicing in over 100 different countries, Alliant truly encompasses the definition of an international university. The school’s cutting-edge degree programs include a BS in Business Administration, a Master of Business Administration (MBA), a Doctor of Business Administration, and even a PhD in Leadership. Project-based, cooperative learning provides students with the skills they need to achieve their goals after graduation.

#38 – Notre Dame of Maryland University

Department of Business

Baltimore, Maryland

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Points: 5
Net Price: $18,370
At Notre Dame of Maryland University, hands-on experiential learning begins the first day of an undergraduate’s degree program. Teachers guide students to discover important business principles on their own as they participate in internships, consulting assignments, and departmental club activities throughout their academic careers. Department leaders recently updated their curriculum based on results of focus groups with mid-level managers from well-known companies such as Black & Decker and Under Armour. The revamped curriculum now emphasizes practical business skills such as data analysis, negotiation, and business research. The school’s First Impressions Program prepares students to transition smoothly from the classroom to the boardroom.

#37 – Bridgewater College

Economics and Business Administration Department

Bridgewater, Virginia

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Points: 5
Net Price: $19,303
The Economics and Business Administration Department at Bridgewater College offers both majors and minors in Business and Administration and Economics as well as a minor in Equine Studies and a concentration in Economics and Business Administration. Small class sizes and experiential learning opportunities ensure that students learn meaningful lessons that can be applied to the modern, global business world. A variety of clubs such as the Collegiate Entrepreneur’s Association, the Society for Human Resource Management, and Enactus allow students to extend their learning outside of the classroom while networking with peers.

#36 – Barton College

School of Business

Wilson, North Carolina

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Points: 5
Net Price: $20,199
The School of Business at Barton College is dedicated to driving its diverse student population to think outside of the box. A personalized curriculum allows students to tailor their studies to their unique talents, interests, and goals. The school is currently holding the Barton Innovation Competition, which allows business and non-business students the opportunity to compete in one of three divisions: new venture, small business, and community outreach. The competition is a testament to the college’s emphasis on experiential learning. The School of Business offers two degree paths in business: a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.

#35 – Hope International University

Business and Management Program

Fullerton, California

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Points: 5
Net Price: $22,275
Hope International University’s Business and Management Program strives to prepare students to apply Christian values to the complexities of the modern business world. With both on-campus and distance learning offerings, students have the option to tailor their coursework around their unique schedules and needs. Paid internship opportunities are available to students during their junior and senior years. These 140-hour mandatory work experiences prepare students to thrive in the business world after graduation. Career opportunities for graduates include International Business Leader, Entrepreneur, and Human Resources Director.

#34 – La Sierra University

Tom & Vi Zapara School of Business

Riverside, California

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Points: 5
Net Price: $24,027
The Tom & Vi Zapara School of Business prepares students to be innovative problem solvers in the business world by teaching them how to combine their faith with solid business principles and service opportunities. At La Sierra University, business school students will have the opportunity to join the school’s world-cup winning Enactus team, participate in internships with local businesses, and engage in trips and club activities with fellow students. Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees are available in a variety of specializations including Health Care Management, Political Economy, and Business & Society.

#33 – Brigham Young University, Hawaii

College of Business, Computing, and Government

Laie, Hawaii

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Points: 6
Net Price: $11,948
Students have several options for studying business at Brigham Young University, Hawaii. The Bachelor of Science in Business Management degree offers four different concentrations for students to choose from: Human Resource and Organizational Behavior, Finance, Marketing and Operations and Supply Chain Management. The school also offers a B.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management, an Associates program in Business Management and minors in both Hospitality and Tourism Management and Economics. The global focus of these programs prepares students to practice business domestically and internationally.

#32 – Marygrove College

Business Department

Detroit, Michigan

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Points: 6
Net Price: $13,077
As a business student at Marygrove College, students may select from five areas of concentration: Accounting, Financial Planning, General Business, and Marketing, all of which are designed with a healthy balance of business and liberal arts curriculum. Graduates of other majors at Marygrove who are interested in acquiring basic business skills have the option of earning a post-degree certificate upon completion of 20 credit hours. Business degree holders from this college go on to fulfill careers as certified public accountants, internal revenue agents, controllers, human resource managers, and a range of other vocations.

#31 – Paine College

Department of Business

Augusta, Georgia

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Points: 6
Net Price: $14,152
The Department of Business at Paine College is part of the School of Professional Studies academic unit following a recent restructuring to sharpen focus on students with a vested commitment to beginning a career path in business. Undergraduate students in this department are offered a progressive range of courses within six majors: Business, Accounting, International Business, Management, Marketing, and Management Information Systems (MIS). For those inclined to join the club, Paine College sponsors an array of student-run organizations spanning special interest topics in business.

#30 – Rochester College

Rochester College Department of Business

Rochester Hills, Michigan

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Points: 6
Net Price: $15,807
Rochester College’s School of Business places students on specialized tracks in relevant majors that include Accounting, Business Management, Social Entrepreneurship or Sports Management. In addition to a well-rounded liberal arts education, business students complete an expansive range of courses in accounting, computer information systems, finance, human resources, leadership, management, and marketing. In addition to the core business curriculum, each prospective graduate participates in the Professional Development Seminar, which is an invaluable mentoring opportunity addressing career options and preparing one’s marketability in pursuing employment leads.

#29 – Pfeiffer University

Pfeiffer University Business Division

Misenheimer, North Carolina

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Points: 6
Net Price: $17,611
Students of Pfeiffer University’s Business Division benefit largely from its comprehensive business curriculum, well-organized and strategic practicum experiences in the field. In an effort to diversify its cultural exposure, Pfeiffer University strongly encourages an international component to the business degree track. The administration at Pfeiffer organizes and facilitates wonderful global participation opportunities for undergraduates, graduates, and faculty. The international student and staff exchange program remains continuous with Australia, England, Ghana, Germany, Sweden, China, the Middle East, and other world regions.

#28 -The University of Saint Mary

E. Clairborne Robins School for Business

Leavenworth, Kansas

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Points: 6
Net Price: $18,212
The University of Saint Mary, located in the quaint city of Leavenworth, Kansas is strongly suited for the business student who prefers a highly individualized education in a smaller, more rural academic setting. Its innovative combined degree, “Triple Advantage Accounting Program” allows undergraduates in accounting to earn a BS in four years, a CPA certification in year five and an MBA in year six. This extended opportunity allows for full optimization of credentials that are imperative for career growth and sustainability.

#27 – Our Lady of the Lake University

Business Administration Department

San Antonio, Texas

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Points: 6
Net Price: $18,431
Combining a strong academic foundation with hands-on practical experience, the School of Business and Leadership at Our Lady of the Lake University instills confidence in aspiring graduates that the beginning of their career in business will be on the right track. BS degree interest areas span accounting, computer information systems, finance, management, or marketing; the BS in Applied Science has a growing list of approved technical concentration areas designed to maintain current with changing needs in the business marketplace.

#26 – Houston Baptist University

Archie W. Dunham College of Business

Houston, Texas

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Points: 6
Net Price: $19,487
A focus on student-centered, hands-on learning opportunities distinguished Houston Baptist University’s Archie W. Dunham College of Business as one of the most innovative small college business departments. Innovative approaches to instruction include interactive classroom seminars, web-based learning, and case studies. The school offers several business education options for undergraduates and graduates alike in the areas of International Business, Human Resources, Business Administration and more. The College also houses the Center for Christianity in Business (CCB), which is instrumental in teaching students to marry their faith and careers.

#25 – Finlandia University

International School of Business

Hancock, Michigan

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Points: 6
Net Price: $19,732
The International School of Business at Finlandia University offers an array of concentrations for students seeking a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (BBA) including unique offerings such as International Business, Arts Management, Sports Management, and Criminal Justice. Each of these degree tracks is founded upon a liberal arts core with special emphasis on professional communication and business technology. Students will also have the opportunity to study abroad through the university’s exchange program with Finland, one of the top entrepreneurial countries in the world.

#24 -Albany State University

College of Business

Albany, Georgia

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Points: 7
Net Price: $12,303
Albany State University offers an extensive collection of degree programs at the undergraduate level including bachelor programs in fields such as business information systems, healthcare management, supply chain and logistics management, fire services administration, and technology management. These programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). The college is also home to many different student organizations such as the Accounting Club, Enactus, Healthcare Management Club, and Supply Chain and Logistics (SCAL). A robust Career Services department assists students in resume writing, interview skills, and internships.

#23 – Christian Brothers University

School of Business

Memphis, Tennessee

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Points: 7
Net Price: $15,053
The School of Business at Christian Brothers University offers a Bachelor of Science degree program in Business Administration as well as a B.S. in Accounting. Students enrolled in these programs can choose from several different concentrations including Hospitality and Tourism Management, International Business, and Management Information Systems. Program features include study abroad opportunities designed to expose students to the global business world as well as local internships with businesses in and around the Memphis area. Business clubs include Delta Sigma Pi and Enactus. Christian Brothers University has been recognized as among the top 20% of the nation’s colleges by Forbes Magazine.

#22 – Maharishi University of Management

Department of Business

Fairfield, Iowa

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Points: 7
Net Price: $18,784
As one of the most original programs on our list, Maharishi University of Management’s Department of Business takes a truly unique perspective on business education. Using what the school calls Conscious-Based Management, students learn about business principles that coincide with natural law. In addition, they live in single-room dorms, eat vegetarian meals, and practice meditation throughout the day. A block schedule allows students to fully immerse themselves in one class for a full month before moving on to another course. This, in addition to degree programs such as Forest Academies and Sustainable Business make Maharishi University a truly progressive choice.

#21 – Northwood University

Business Department

West Palm Beach, Florida

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Points: 7
Net Price: $20,155
With a highly expansive list of specialized majors ranging from health care management to fashion marketing, the business school of Northwood University works very closely with prospective graduates to tailor the right course of education in the right timeframe. Graduate students seeking an MBA will find that their flexible, individualized degree tracks are designed to make it possible for any qualified applicant to earn their master’s, even in tandem with a full-time career. Northwood also offers an MS program (MSOL) in organizational leadership.

#20 – Florida Southern College

Barney Barnett School of Business and Free Enterprise

Lakeland, Florida


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Points: 7
Net Price: $23,395
Florida Southern College’s Barney Barnett School of Business and Free Enterprise is one of the more progressive schools on our list, thanks to its dedication to hands-on learning, global business principles, and 21st century technology applications. The school even guarantees first year students a travel experience abroad in order to begin building awareness of today’s international marketplace. Florida Southern’s Business and Free Enterprise major is the first of its kind in Florida and a rare offering across all schools nationwide.

#19 -Andrews University

School of Business Administration

Berrien Springs, Michigan

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Points: 7
Net Price: $23,620
The School of Business at Andrews University allows undergraduates to build a solid foundation of business concepts while studying specialties such as accounting, finance, information systems, and marketing. The unique BBA/BA in International Business and Language equips students with the skills they need to practice business on a global level. Students who choose to pursue this degree path will graduate with two complementary degrees: a Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in management and a Bachelor of Arts in language for international trade. An online MBA program is also available for graduate students.

#18 – Barry University

Andreas School of Business

Miami Shores, Florida

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Points: 7
Net Price: $24,610
Located in downtown Miami, Barry University has been accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International, which many refer to as the “gold standard of accreditation” for business education schools. Because of its location, the school is ideal for students pursuing an International Business major. In addition to being surrounded by diverse culture, the school offers study abroad opportunities which enable students to learn a new language and network with new people, all while witnessing business happen on a global level.

#17 – Case Western University

Weatherhead School of Management

Cleveland, Ohio

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Points: 7
Net Price: $29,140
The mission of Case Western University’s Weatherhead School of Management is to develop transformational ideas and outstanding leaders for the advancement of business and society. Prospective students can choose from an extensive list of undergraduate and graduate offerings including a Bachelor of Science in Business Management with majors in International Business, Finance, Marketing, Entrepreneurship and more. The school’s Career Management Office assists students and graduates through coaching, resume reviewing, workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. Students also have exclusive access to the school’s CareerLink, an online resource for locating internships and job opportunities.

#16 – Menlo College

College of Business

Atherton, California

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Points: 7
Net Price: $31,586
Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College is a promising entry point to the exciting world of technology business and entrepreneurship. The college boasts a 93% employment success rate in its graduating class, placing its business school among the top 5% worldwide. The alumni, reported to be working in more than 88 countries, are known to have formed a beneficial network of support for emerging professionals. Menlo offers either a BA or BS in Business, with concentrations in Entrepreneurship, Human Resource Management, International Management, Management Information Systems, Marketing Communications, Real Estate, and Sports Management.

#15 – Saint Xavier University

Graham School of Management

Chicago, Illinois

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Points: 8
Net Price: $16,736
The Graham School of Management at Saint Xavier University prides itself on academic excellence and social responsibility being the cornerstones of the institution’s mission in higher learning. Its undergraduate and graduate business departments are accredited by the Association to Advance School of Business International, a status placing the school in the top 5 percent of the world’s business programs. The Graham School fosters partnerships with leaders in nonprofit organizations in the nearby Chicago community, further solidifying its commitment to motivating graduates to bring their budding intellectual attributes to a greater ethical purpose.

#14 – Washington and Lee University

Williams School of Commerce, Economics and Politics

Lexington, Virginia

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Points: 8
Net Price: $20,700
Proving consistently to be one of the most popular departments at Washington and Lee, the Williams School of Commerce, Economics and Politics offers a solid business education within a larger liberal arts academic environment. The department has 50 full-time faculty members on staff, specializing in interest areas that include accounting, business administration, economics, and politics. Available interdisciplinary courses such as environmental study, poverty and human capability, and women’s and gender studies put the Williams School on the map as one of the more progressive business educations one can acquire.

#13 – Bucknell University

School of Management

Lewisburg, Pennsylvania

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Points: 8
Net Price: $33,127
The School of Management at Bucknell University prides itself on being a student-centered department focused on the professional, intellectual, and moral development of its students. The school offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in four different majors: Accounting and Financial Management, Management for Sustainability, Global Management, and Markets, Innovation and Design. In addition to these unique offerings, the school also has a five-year joint degree program in conjunction with the College of Engineering that leads to a Bachelor of Management for Engineers degree.

#12 – West Virginia State University

Department of Business Administration

Institute, West Virginia

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Points: 9
Net Price: $8,870
West Virginia State University’s business administration department boasts a wide spectrum of curriculum, spanning topics within both for-profit and non-profit fields of study. In the undergraduate program, students choose one of seven areas of concentration: Accounting, Energy Management, Finance, International Business, Management, Management Information Systems, or Marketing. WVSU’s post-graduate opportunities include Accounting or the Energy Management Program. Among the most considerable benefits to attending the college is the low student-to-faculty ratio (15-to-1) which cultivates individualized and effective student learning experiences with its award-winning, nationally recognized faculty.

#11 – Tuskegee University

Andrew F. Brimmer College of Business and Information Science

Tuskegee, Alabama

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Points: 9
Net Price: $28,414
With a rich history in esteemed and diverse higher learning, Tuskegee University (founded by Booker T. Washington in 1881) has established itself as a leading institution in expansive liberal arts education and a top producer of highly successful African-American alumni in engineering, veterinary medicine, and high-ranking military positions. The Brimmer College of Information Science offers BS degree opportunities in Accounting, Economic, and Finance in Business. Designed to produce well-rounded leaders in the professional world, Tuskegee’s values remain deeply rooted in its mission to educate each student as a whole person – “the hand and the heart, as well as the mind.”

#10 – University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee

College of Business

Sarasota, Florida

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Points: 10
Net Price: $7,911
Centrally located in the higher education region of the Sarasota/Bradenton area, the University of South Florida-Manatee is an affordable, private education institution with an over 92% satisfaction rate from surveyed recent graduates. The USF College of Business provides a foundation for sustained employment in its emphasis on cross-cultural communication, leadership, and other competencies in an increasingly competitive market. USF’s undergraduate program includes courses in Accounting, Applied Science, Finance, General Business Administration, Information Technology, Management, and Marketing. The college’s professional MBA program in Business Administration offers flexible scheduling for graduate students who wish to maintain their full-time career while in attendance.

#9 – Texas A&M University-Texarkana

Business Administration Department

Texarkana, Texas

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Points: 10
Net Price: $8,221
Texas A&M University-Texarkana has seen its College of Business graduates go on to have successful careers with renowned financial institutions, industrial companies, or in an entrepreneurial venture of their own. Students are prepared to become critical thinkers and great communicators, ready to hit the ground running. MBA candidates in Energy Leadership may choose to take advantage of the university’s partnership with the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) to further strengthen a future in management within energy or petroleum related fields.

#8 – Washington Adventist University

Department of Business

Takoma Park, Maryland

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Points: 11
Net Price: $17,055
The Department of Business at Washington Adventist University encourages a well-rounded education in administration spanning a curriculum in law, research, ethics, management, and an independent research study opportunity that allows for tailored mentoring with instructors at the upper division level. WAU students may also benefit from the extensive list of affiliations and partnerships with surrounding esteemed educational institutions. Its location in the nation’s capital also provides optimum networking opportunities for post-graduate job placement.

#7 – Rice University

The Jesse H. Jones Graduate School of Business

Houston, Texas

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Points: 11
Net Price: $20,512
The Jesse H. Jones Graduate School of Business at Texas’ Rice University was established through a gift from Houston Endowment, Inc. in 1974. This department offers a minor in business (BUSI) for undergraduate students, a master’s of business administration (MBA) program for graduate students and a PhD program for graduate students looking to further pursue and enhance their academic careers at research universities. In 2016, JGSB will initiate a one-year master of accounting (MAcc) program for students completing a non-business undergraduate degree.

#6 – The University of Tulsa

Collins College of Business

Tulsa, Oklahoma

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Points: 11
Net Price: $28,105
Centrally located in the lively, multi-cultural city of Tulsa, Oklahoma, the University of Tulsa continues to rank among the best colleges in the country for its affordability, high retention rate, and competitive academic averages for incoming freshman. The esteemed Collins College of Business is one of only nine energy management programs in the United States, making its graduates some of the most specialized professionals in the energy industry. Students in the full-time MBA program are assigned hands-on consulting projects with local Tulsa businesses, further preparing them for the transition to the professional world.

#5 – Pepperdine University

The George L. Graziadio School of Business and Management

Malibu, California

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Points: 12
Net Price: $27,644
The George L. Graziadio School of Business and Management at Pepperdine University provides multiple avenues by which to earn your MBA, master’s, bachelor’s degree and various certificate programs in business. While all business degree tracks encompass an emphasis on core areas of accounting, finance, management, and marketing, students are also encouraged to combine this course of study with specialized interests including International Business, Ethnic Studies, and Nonprofit Management. Additionally, the Graziadio School has an exciting list of visiting companies who provide mentorship for student projects and other advisement opportunities.

#4 – Robert Morris University

School of Business Administration

Chicago, Illinois

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Points: 13
Net Price: $19,452
The School of Business Administration at Robert Morris University in Illinois prepares undergraduate students with a fast-paced curriculum, hands-on work opportunities in their respective fields of interest, and internships at renowned firms with connections to the university. Ranked #1 by Money Magazine as its “Value All-Star,” Robert Morris offers the lowest tuition for a private school in the state, and further provides assistance with a considerably generous range of over 25 scholarship opportunities based on academic merit, athletics, grants, financial need, and more.

#3 – Trinity University

School of Business

San Antonio, Texas

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Points: 13
Net Price: $27,851
Ranking among “America’s Best Colleges” according to U.S. News and World Report, and listed “Strong in Business” in the Fiske Guide to Colleges, Trinity University’s School of Business is structured in three departments: Accounting, Business Administration, and Finance and Decision Sciences. All department branches offer the option for undergraduates to receive either a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science. The college’s emphasis on diverse, individualized interests is demonstrated in its integration with liberal arts. Graduate students of the Trinity’s Master of Science in Accounting are eagerly recruited by the Big Four and other more local and national CPA firms.

#2 – Stevens Institute of Technology

School of Business

Hoboken, New Jersey

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Points: 13
Net Price: $31,492
Located just across the river from New York City’s Wall Street, The School of Business at Stevens Institute of Technology in New Jersey is a strong choice for both fostering developing business careers, and strengthening the relevancy of current ones. The expansive undergraduate program offers seven options for majors, which include Finance, Marketing, Management, Quantitative Science (QF), Information Systems, Business & Technology, and Economics. Its equally cutting-edge graduate program involves particular emphasis on preparing business professionals to be competitive in the evolving field of technology.

#1 – The University of Richmond

E. Clairborne Robins School for Business

Richmond, Virginia

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Points: 14
Net Price: $24,011
The E.Clairborne Robins School of Business at the University of Richmond has received national and international recognition for its strong, diverse curriculum that combines requirements with liberal arts courses for maximum diversity in educational background. In 2014, Bloomberg Weekly consistently counted the Robins School among the top ranking undergraduate business departments in teaching quality, student satisfaction, facilities and services, ethics, and accounting. The MBA program has also proven to be competitive, providing students with connections to more than 400 business and not-for-profit organizations in the state of Virginia alone.