Small Business Owner: Online Diploma

Research online small business management diploma programs. Get information on requirements, courses, career prospects and salary to make an informed decision about your education.

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Online Small Business Owner Diploma Program Overview

Online diploma programs in small business management are not terribly common, but there are some available. These programs include courses in the financial, legal and personal aspects of owning a small business. In less time than it takes to earn a degree, small business owners and managers can gain the skills they need to start or grow their businesses. Students seeking similar programs that are not limited to the small business environment may consider online certificate programs in business administration.

Program Information and Requirements

Online small business owner diploma programs can take between fives months and one year to complete. Many programs cater to part-time students. Although many programs are offered 100% online, a few require students to take at least some courses on campus. Students taking all of their courses online may not have access to on-campus resources, such as small business development centers, but they'll be able to contact instructors and program staff during regular business hours.

List of Common Online Small Business Management Courses

Courses in an online small business management diploma program typically cover topics such as human resources management, accounting, mathematics for business, marketing and business law. Other possible course topics include starting a business, entrepreneurship, writing a business plan and networking.

Small Business Management

In this foundational course, students learn about the stages involved in planning for, starting and operating a small business. They learn about marketing techniques, managing finances, overcoming legal hurdles and meeting government regulations.

Marketing Principles

Students learn how to select the right marketing methods for their small businesses. The course discusses advertising, promotion, budgeting and public relations.

Financial Management

Students learn how to use financial information as a gauge to determine how their businesses are performing. They learn how to create financial statements, analyze investment returns and calculate break-even points.

Career Information for Graduates

Those who complete diploma programs in small business management tend to already be small business owners or already be planning to start a small business in the future. According to PayScale.com, as of March 2012, annual wages for most small business owners were anywhere between $31,412 and $242,143. This statistic includes bonuses, profit sharing and commission in addition to base salary.

Continuing Education Information

Students who wish to further their educations can pursue associate's or bachelor's degrees in small business management. Entirely online programs are available for both degree levels.

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