School of Business
Start Building a Career in Business—One Skill at a Time.
Looking to step into the world of business but not sure where to begin? The Business Administration Diploma from Rockford Career College is your fast track to career-ready skills and practical knowledge. Whether you’re looking to land your first office job or grow into a new role, this online program gives you the foundation to succeed.
In less than a year, you’ll develop a working understanding of how organizations operate including marketing, accounting, communication, and customer service. This diploma is designed for students who want to learn real-world business functions without committing to a multi-year degree.
With 100% online learning and support from experienced instructors, you can gain career-focused training while balancing work, family, or life transitions.
Length: 8 months
Credential: Diploma
Format: 100% Online
Credits: 53 quarter credit hours
Business Training That Means Business
Get the skills that companies look for in administrative professionals, customer service roles, and small business teams.
What You’ll Learn in the Business Administration Diploma:
Office Communication & Technology: Learn how to write professional emails, handle client interactions, and use standard business software.
Basic Accounting & Bookkeeping: Understand how to manage budgets, track expenses, and support financial reporting.
Customer Service & Sales Support: Build the skills to deliver excellent service and help drive customer satisfaction.
Introduction to Business Operations: Explore how departments like HR, marketing, and administration function within a company.
This diploma gives you a broad view of business fundamentals so you can hit the ground running in entry-level roles.
Gain In-Demand Skills for Office, Retail, and Service Roles
A diploma in business administration can open the door to a variety of support and coordination positions across industries. These are the kinds of roles that keep businesses running—and often serve as launchpads for future advancement.
Graduates of this program may qualify for roles such as:
To succeed in this program, bring your focus and a willingness to grow.
Stay organized and meet deadlines for online coursework
Engage in virtual discussions and collaborative assignments
Use feedback from instructors to build confidence and skills
Maintain professional conduct in both written and verbal communication
Ask questions—this is your time to learn
You’re not expected to know everything yet. You’re expected to show up and try. That’s where the growth happens.
Your New Career Starts with One Simple Step
We believe that big changes start with simple beginnings. Whether you’re fresh out of high school, returning to school, or ready for a new career path, Rockford Career College is here to help you take that first step.
To enroll in the Business Administration Diploma program, you’ll need:
To be at least 17 years old (students under 18 will need a parent or guardian to co-sign the enrollment agreement)
A high school diploma, GED, HiSET, TASC, or equivalent recognized credential
To complete a brief Digital Learning Readiness Assessment to ensure you’re comfortable using online tools and platforms
After applying, you’ll meet with an admissions advisor who will walk you through:
Program expectations and time commitment
Available financial aid and scholarship options
Your educational goals and whether this program fits your lifestyle
We’re looking for students who are:
Motivated to build a better future
Eager to develop real-world business skills
Open to learning in a flexible, supportive online environment
Whether you’re launching your career or starting fresh, this program can help you get there—with a team behind you every step of the way.
Online Learning Built Around Real Life
The Business Administration Diploma is delivered 100% online in short five-week modules. You’ll typically take two courses per module and complete readings, assignments, and quizzes at your own pace—with deadlines to keep you on track.
Here’s what you can expect:
8-month program length (for full-time students)
12–15 hours per week of coursework
Virtual instructor support and tutoring available
Projects and discussions that simulate real workplace scenarios
It’s flexible, career-driven training that works around your schedule—not the other way around.
Q: What’s the difference between a diploma and an associate degree?
The diploma covers core business skills for entry-level roles. The associate degree builds on that foundation with advanced coursework in leadership, finance, and strategy—ideal for supervisory or administrative positions.
Q: Are the Business Administration programs available online?
Yes, both the diploma and the associate degree in Business Administration are delivered 100% online, giving you the flexibility to study from anywhere.
Q: Do I need a diploma to enroll in the associate degree program?
Yes. To enroll in the associate degree program at Rockford, students must have completed a business-related diploma or certificate and hold a minimum 2.0 GPA.
Q: Will I learn how to use software like Excel or QuickBooks?
Yes. The program introduces you to widely used office and accounting software, including Excel and QuickBooks, to prepare you for real-world administrative tasks.
Q: Do I need business experience to start?
Not at all. This program is designed for students who are new to the field or making a career change. We’ll help you build confidence and practical skills from day one.
Next Session Starts: September 8, 2025
After you complete the Accounting & Payroll Clerk Diploma program, you could continue with our online, 7-month Business Administration Associate Degree completion program That’s only 15 months total to get an associate degree.
Questions about our Rockford campus? Let’s connect and talk about your future.
Get In touch
See our classrooms, meet our staff, and imagine yourself in a career that matters.
Book Your Campus Tour
Why Choose Rockford Career College?
After you complete the Accounting & Payroll Clerk Diploma program, you could continue with our online, 7-month Business Administration Associate Degree completion program That’s only 15 months total to get an associate degree.
Questions about our Rockford campus? Let’s connect and talk about your future.
Get in Touch
See our classrooms, meet our staff, and imagine yourself in a career that matters.
Book Your Campus Tour
Worried about how to afford business administration training? Let us help! Our friendly financial aid team is here to help you explore funding, scholarships, and grants to help make Rockford fit your budget.
Rockford Career College
(A Branch Campus of Stautzenberger College-Maumee)
1130 S Alpine Rd #100,
Rockford, IL 61108
Phone: (815) 965-8616
or (888) 680-6682
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