Best Business Schools in Vermont – 2025 Accredited Colleges & Programs

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Vermont is known for its welcoming communities, small towns, and picturesque landscapes. It is also known for having a broad selection of colleges and universities offering various programs and resources. Of the nearly 650,000 Vermont residents, 40.9% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, making the state one of the best educated places in the U.S. (U.S. Census Bureau, n.d.).

In this article, our team has taken a deeper look at some of the best business schools in Vermont. The schools in this list are acclaimed for their reputation and the high-quality educational experience they provide. We have also shed light on the invaluable business career opportunities that await Vermont students in different industries.

Best Business Schools in Vermont Table of Contents

• Is having a business major a good career in Vermont?
• What career paths can you pursue with a business degree in Vermont?
• Business Program Length in Vermont
• Tuition and Costs of the Best Business Schools in Vermont
• Best Business Schools in Vermont for 2025
• What to Look for in a Business School in Vermont
• The Importance of Accounting Skills in Vermont's Business Landscape
• What Are the Salary Prospects for Business Professionals in Vermont?
• How Does Understanding Human Behavior Enhance Business Strategy in Vermont?
• How Do Business Programs in Vermont Adapt to Technological Advances?
• Challenges of Earning a Business Degree in Vermont
• How Can Financial Certifications Enhance Career Advancement in Vermont?
• How Can Business Expertise Enhance Vermont's Legal and Compliance Sector?
• What Are the Forensic Scientist Education Requirements in Vermont?
• Are There Other Career Paths in Vermont That Don't Involve Traditional Business Roles?
• How Can Business Expertise Propel Success in Vermont's Health and Nutrition Sector?
• Can Business Expertise Enhance Substance Abuse Counseling Initiatives in Vermont?
• How Can Business Expertise Influence Vermont's Pharmaceutical Sector?

Is having a business major a good career in Vermont?

Many people are attracted to studying, working, and living in Vermont. The state ranks strongly in a diverse economy, high pay, low unemployment rate, and a growing healthcare landscape, among others. Below is a list of reasons that make Vermont a great state for careers in business.

1. Diverse economy. Vermont has seen $12.3 billion in economic activity driven by its SMEs, which are also instrumental in its 27% employment. The state’s strong sectors are education, IT, corporate service, agriculture, tourism, healthcare, life science, manufacturing, and supply chain management. These sectors provide business school graduates with a wealth of job options.
2. A good source of income. How much do business majors make in Vermont? In BLS’ most recent report, business and financial operations occupations have an annual mean wage of $78,870.
3. Low unemployment rate. Vermont’s low unemployment rate, 1.8% as of BLS’ July 2023 data, makes it easier for its residents to keep up with its slightly higher than the national average cost of living. CityRating.com reports that the state’s consumer price index (CPI) is 248, which is 1.22% higher than 245, the U.S. city average. .
4. Good infrastructure. Vermont is also rated the best state for public transportation, an advantage for students traveling to and from their schools.
5. Worker Relocation Incentive Program. Vermont helps workers subsidize their relocation expenses with reimbursement grants up to $7,500. This program is sponsored through the Vermont Legislature’s $3.09 million one-time allocation.
6. Growing healthcare landscape. Vermont has a growing healthcare landscape, including numerous nonprofit hospitals, medical manufacturing and software companies, community healthcare centers, and university research medical centers. The biggest employer in the state is the University of Vermont Medical Center.
7. One of the safest places in the country. Vermont is constantly rated as one of the safest places to live in the country. It is also appreciated for its accessibility to resources and quality of living. This is why many international businesses go here to put up their businesses, thus strengthening the economy and creating more jobs.

Being Successful in Business in Vermont

Becoming a business professional in Vermont, like in any other state, involves a combination of education, work experience, networking, and ongoing career development. Start by earning a bachelor’s degree in relevant fields like business administration, finance, management, or marketing. A bachelor’s degree is typically the minimum academic requirement for most entry-level business roles. But can you get a business degree online in Vermont as well? Definitely.

Consider taking an MBA, too. Many MBA programs in Vermont offer concentrated tracks that allow students to focus on a specific business sphere. These programs usually mandate several general business courses in accounting, management, and economics. Those who opt for a concentration area take specialized classes in a subject, such as leadership, project management, or finance.

Or you may instead join professional organizations. Doing this will help you connect with local and national business organizations, such as industry associations, chambers of commerce, and networking groups. These organizations are your way to meet other business leaders, know potential career openings, participate in workshops and conferences to broaden your knowledge and learn about the latest business trends.

What career paths can you pursue with a business degree in Vermont?

A business degree from Vermont opens doors to various exciting career paths in established and emerging sectors. Here are a few options for business graduates:

• Finance and Accounting: With businesses thriving in the state, opportunities in finance, banking, and accounting are abundant. Graduates can pursue roles such as financial analysts, accountants, or auditors.
• Marketing and Sales: Vermont has a growing market for marketing professionals. Companies need experts in digital marketing, brand management, and sales strategy. Business graduates can secure roles in advertising agencies, corporations, or startups.
• Entrepreneurship: Vermont's small business-friendly environment allows graduates to start their own ventures. From tech startups to artisanal goods, the entrepreneurial scene in Vermont is diverse and supportive.
• Management and Consulting: Businesses across the state require skilled managers, consultants, and operations specialists to drive growth. Business graduates can work in leadership roles in healthcare and tech industries.
• Nonprofit Sector: Vermont has a thriving nonprofit community, and business graduates can pursue roles in nonprofit management, program coordination, or fundraising, using their business acumen to support community goals.

By pursuing a business degree in Vermont, graduates benefit from the state's thriving economy, which fosters opportunities in traditional and modern industries. The degree's flexibility allows graduates to tailor their career paths according to their interests, whether they choose the corporate world or entrepreneurial ventures.

Business Program Length in Vermont

Bachelor’s degrees in business take about four years to finish, assuming you are a full-time student. Accelerated options and summer classes may shorten this period. On the other hand, some online or remote business bachelor degrees and part-time options may take longer to finish.

MBA degrees can be fulfilled in more or less two years. And because MBAs lead to varied academic paths, program prerequisites can vary from 30 to 60 credits, meaning this degree may take two to four years to finish. Meanwhile, doctoral degrees in business can take anywhere from three to seven years. This depends on factors, such as program structure, research involved, and whether you are a part-time or full-time student.

In addition, there are certificate programs for those finding shorter-term options and cheaper Vermont business school tuition and fees. These programs, which focus on specific topics or business skills, only take a few weeks to several months.

Tuition and Costs of the Best Business Schools in Vermont

For the 2022-23 school year, the average in-state tuition and fees for full-time resident students at public four-year institutions in Vermont is $17,650, while out-of-state students pay $41,980 (College Board, 2022)

In our quest for the best business schools in Vermont, we found that their tuition and costs can go even higher, as they range from $45,000 to $66,000.

It is very important to research and compare the tuition and costs of different business schools in Vermont before deciding where to enroll. Some may also offer Vermont business school scholarships and grants to make business education in the state more affordable.

Best Business Schools in Vermont for 2025

The Green Mountain State is home to many premier business schools that offer quality education. From smaller community colleges to renowned institutions, there is something for everyone in Vermont. Use Vermont business school rankings, such as the one we have below, to learn about what the state has to offer when it comes to courses, specializations, resources, and projects.

1. University of Vermont Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

The University of Vermont Business School has long been commended for its academic excellence, advanced programs, avant-garde facilities, respected faculty, strong employment results, and powerful alumni network. Its Grossman School of Business is one of the best business schools in Vermont, boasting demanding coursework and developing exemplary quantitative, conceptual analysis, and technology skills. It regularly hosts networking events, workshops, and conferences to provide its students with a myriad of job opportunities and connect them with industry experts. The UVM Grossman School of Business acceptance rate is 71%.

1. Program Length: N/A
2. Tracks/Concentrations: AccountingFinanceMarketingBusiness Analytics
3. Accounting
4. Finance
5. Marketing
6. Business Analytics
7. Tuition Cost: $30,510 (in-state); $52,245 (out-of-state)
8. Required Credits to Graduate: no information available
9. Accreditation: AACSB

2. Saint Michael’s College Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

The School of Business Administration of Saint Michael’s College is also one of the highly regarded business schools in Vermont and the U.S. With a reputation for producing forward-looking business professionals, it offers bachelor’s degrees in business administration, accounting, economics, and more. It is also known for its research-centeredness, supportive learning environment, and outstanding faculty. Focusing on experiential learning, Saint Michael’s curriculum is devised to prepare learners for success in fast-paced business settings, gravitating towards problem-solving, critical thinking, and leadership skills.

1. Program Length: 4 years
2. Tracks/Concentrations: no information available
3. Tuition & Fees: $66,535
4. Required Credits to Graduate: no information available
5. Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

3. Champlain College Bachelor of Science in Business Administration 

Champlain College is one of the oldest yet best business schools in Vermont. Its Robert P. Stiller School of Business has been providing stellar business degree programs in Vermont for a long time. Aside from its undergraduate business degrees, it offers graduate programs concentrating on accounting, finance, and strategic management. It is also acknowledged for its faculty expertise and contributions to research, providing students with a rigorous academic foundation and exposure to the most recent industry trends. Moreover, it harbors a collaborative learning environment, encouraging students to work closely on case studies and team projects.

1. Program Length: 4 years
2. Tracks/Concentrations: Activist MarketingBusiness AnalyticsBusiness for GoodBusiness LawComputer ScienceCybersecurityGlobal BusinessHuman Resource ManagementInformation Systems & TechnologyInnovation & EntrepreneurshipManagement
3. Activist Marketing
4. Business Analytics
5. Business for Good
6. Business Law
7. Computer Science
8. Cybersecurity
9. Global Business
10. Human Resource Management
11. Information Systems & Technology
12. Innovation & Entrepreneurship
13. Management
14. Tuition By Year: $45,100 (full-time); $1,890 (part-time)
15. Required Credits to Graduate: no information available
16. Accreditation: NECHE

4. Vermont State University MBA

Vermont State University has five locations in the state: Castleton, Johnson, Lyndon, Randolph, and Williston. It offers an MBA program, which promises a flexible schedule. Its eight-week module enables students to enroll whenever they are ready and proceed through the program at their convenience. Its faculty not only teach based on academic theory but also on personal experiences in the field.

1. Program Length: 1 year
2. Tracks/Concentrations: AccountingHealthcare AdministrationLeading Organizational ChangeMedia and Communication
3. Accounting
4. Healthcare Administration
5. Leading Organizational Change
6. Media and Communication
7. Cost Per Credit: $639
8. Required Credits to Graduate: no information available
9. Accreditation: NECHE

5. Community College of Vermont Associate Degree in Business

The Community College of Vermont offers an Associate Degree in Business, which prepares students for employment in corporate settings and helps develop entrepreneurial and management skills. With its courses in business management, economics, and accounting, the program is an ideal stepping stone for students planning to pursue higher levels of business education. Students also have the option to pursue one or more certificates in related fields such as entrepreneurship, leadership skills, and human resource management while pursuing their associate degree.

1. Program Length: 4 semesters
2. Tracks/concentrations: none
3. Cost per Credit: $280 (in-state); $560 (out-of-state)
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 60
5. Accreditation: NECHE

What to Look for in a Business School in Vermont

Take the time to extensively research and visit your prospective business schools in Vermont. You can also talk to alumni or current students so you can prepare Vermont business school admission requirements, as well as assess how well each school matches your personal circumstances and aspirations. Some crucial aspects to consider when choosing your school in the state are:

1. Accreditation. Vermont business school accreditation is, perhaps, the most important consideration. You may need to have gotten your bachelor’s degree from an accredited school to be qualified for a graduate degree. Also, if your preferred job requires you to earn a state-issued credential or license, you may need an accredited program to get hired. Business schools in Vermont are mostly accredited by the NECHE or the Distance Education Accreditation Commission (DEAC).
2. Location. Consider the school’s location, as this can greatly affect your entire college experience. The state has a naturally beautiful scenery, and many business schools in Vermont offer a distinct blend of urban and rural settings. Some schools are centered in bustling towns and cities, while others are in more rural environments.
3. Alumni success. Look into the accomplishments of the school’s alumni. A robust alumni network can deliver mentorship, job leads, and other vital connections.
4. Internship and career placement. Examine the school’s career services and rates for job placement. Most business schools in Vermont have connections with local industries to provide students with ample job opportunities.

The Importance of Accounting Skills in Vermont's Business Landscape

Accounting skills remain a cornerstone of any successful enterprise in Vermont's dynamic business environment. Regardless of industry, businesses rely on precise financial reporting and strategic fiscal management to thrive. Mastering accounting principles can lead to lucrative and impactful roles such as financial analysts, tax advisors, or certified public accountants (CPAs) for students considering a career in this critical domain. With its mix of small-to-medium enterprises and mission-driven organizations, Vermont holds a steady demand for professionals adept at navigating financial complexities.

To pursue this path effectively, it’s crucial to understand the education and certification requirements for CPAs, which include specialized coursework and passing the Uniform CPA Examination. If you're wondering how to become a CPA in Vermont, programs at top accounting schools in the state provide the academic foundation and practical skills needed for long-term success. By integrating accounting expertise with a broader business education, graduates can position themselves as indispensable strategic advisors in Vermont’s evolving economy.

What Are the Salary Prospects for Business Professionals in Vermont?

Business professionals in Vermont can anticipate competitive compensation influenced by industry, experience, and educational attainment. For instance, benchmarking tools such as the business management salary guide reveal that earnings tend to increase with advanced roles, specialization, and strategic industry sectors. Data reflects that targeted career development, combined with Vermont’s unique economic landscape, bolsters long-term earning potential while maintaining competitive remuneration in fields like finance, technology, and healthcare.

How Does Understanding Human Behavior Enhance Business Strategy in Vermont?

Business professionals in Vermont are increasingly turning to interdisciplinary approaches that incorporate principles of psychology to refine management and marketing strategies. By applying insights into human behavior, leaders can enhance team dynamics, customer engagement, and decision-making processes. This fusion of business and behavioral science enables professionals to develop innovative approaches to conflict resolution, talent retention, and market positioning, which are essential in a competitive and community-centric state like Vermont. Additionally, integrating psychological perspectives supports the creation of ethical, empathetic, and adaptable business environments. Prospective students seeking to complement their business acumen might also consider exploring the best colleges for psychology in Vermont to broaden their skill set.

How Do Business Programs in Vermont Adapt to Technological Advances?

Business programs in Vermont are increasingly integrating emerging technologies into their curriculum to meet evolving industry demands. Many institutions emphasize digital transformation, data analytics, and virtual collaboration tools to prepare students for a rapidly changing marketplace. Partnerships with local tech organizations offer practical labs and internship opportunities that bridge theoretical learning with real-world applications. These initiatives ensure that graduates gain proficiency in areas such as digital marketing, financial technology, and operations management. For those concerned about balancing rigorous academic requirements with technological integration, resources like our article Is business administration hard? offer additional insights into managing academic challenges.

Challenges of Earning a Business Degree in Vermont

While Vermont offers a rewarding business education experience, there are certain challenges to consider:

• Limited Program Options: Compared to larger states, Vermont has a smaller selection of business schools and programs. This may limit your choices in terms of specialization, format (online vs. on-campus), and campus location.
• Competition for Scholarships: Though Vermont offers scholarships and grants, competition can be high due to the state's focus on education. This may require a strong application and diverse scholarship exploration beyond Vermont-specific options.
• Focus on Traditional Programs: While some Vermont schools offer online business degree programs, the state leans towards traditional on-campus programs. This might pose a challenge for working professionals seeking more flexible learning options.

Social Life Considerations: For students accustomed to bustling university towns, Vermont's smaller, rural college environments might require adjusting to a different social scene.

How Can Financial Certifications Enhance Career Advancement in Vermont?

In today’s competitive market, obtaining recognized financial certifications can be a decisive factor in career progression. Financial credentials not only validate technical proficiency and ethical standards but also equip professionals with advanced regulatory and strategic insights. Earning such certifications can differentiate candidates in roles involving auditing, tax planning, and corporate finance, thereby translating academic knowledge into practical workplace excellence. For individuals considering this pathway, learning how to become a CPA in Vermont can provide the necessary roadmap to solidify a career built on financial expertise and industry credibility.

How Can Business Expertise Enhance Vermont's Legal and Compliance Sector?

Business graduates can apply their strategic planning and data-driven decision-making skills to improve operational efficiencies in legal settings. Integrating business insights into legal workflows supports enhanced case management, streamlined compliance processes, and effective resource allocation in law firms and corporate legal departments. This interdisciplinary approach paves the way for roles in legal operations and regulatory oversight. For professionals aiming to merge business acumen with legal expertise, learn how to become a paralegal in Vermont.

What Are the Forensic Scientist Education Requirements in Vermont?

Business professionals with an analytical background may benefit from understanding how forensic science integrates structured problem solving and data analysis. Leveraging business acumen in forensic environments can help streamline lab operations, optimize resource management, and contribute to the accuracy of investigative processes. For those exploring this interdisciplinary path, detailed insights on forensic scientist education requirements in Vermont provide a clear outline of the certification and academic credentials needed to succeed in this specialized field.

Are There Other Career Paths in Vermont That Don't Involve Traditional Business Roles?

While traditional business roles are plentiful in Vermont, some individuals may be interested in exploring alternative career paths that still utilize their business skills. For those with a passion for urban development and planning, considering a career in urban planning might be a viable option. To learn more about this field, exploring urban planning schools in Vermont can provide valuable insights into the education and training required for success. Additionally, understanding the skills and knowledge gained through a business education can be applied to various industries, allowing graduates to pursue a wide range of career opportunities in Vermont.

How Can Business Expertise Propel Success in Vermont's Health and Nutrition Sector?

Integrating robust business strategies with specialized knowledge in health and nutrition can open distinct avenues in Vermont’s expanding wellness industry. Business graduates can apply their strengths in operations, strategic planning, and market analysis to optimize organizational performance within health-centric enterprises and startups. Moreover, complementing a business background with targeted training in nutritional sciences enhances one’s capacity to drive innovation in product development, supply chain management, and consumer engagement. For professionals aiming to bridge these fields, exploring how to become a nutritionist in Vermont can provide essential insights into certification and career progression in the nutrition sector.

What career growth opportunities await business graduates in Vermont?

Vermont's unique economic landscape creates diverse career growth opportunities for business graduates. The state’s focus on small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) means professionals often have greater access to leadership roles earlier in their careers compared to larger, more hierarchical organizations. Additionally, Vermont's emphasis on sustainability and innovation opens avenues for those specializing in green business practices, a growing field that aligns with the state's values.

For those pursuing advanced roles, earning an MBA in organizational leadership is a strategic step. MBA graduates can access high-paying positions in management, consulting, and entrepreneurship, where leadership and strategic thinking are critical. If you’re interested in exploring such programs, consider these best online MBA programs in organizational leadership for a flexible and comprehensive educational experience.

Networking opportunities in Vermont are plentiful, with organizations such as the Vermont Business Roundtable and local chambers of commerce providing platforms for mentorship and professional development. Internships and partnerships with local industries further enable career advancement, bridging the gap between education and real-world experience.

By leveraging Vermont’s supportive business ecosystem and actively pursuing growth-oriented opportunities, business graduates can chart a rewarding and upwardly mobile career path in the state.

Can Business Expertise Enhance Substance Abuse Counseling Initiatives in Vermont?

Business graduates in Vermont can leverage their strategic planning and operational management skills to support and improve substance abuse counseling programs. By applying core business principles—such as process optimization, effective resource allocation, and data-driven decision-making—professionals can help treatment centers enhance service delivery and expand community outreach initiatives. This integrated approach addresses both organizational efficiency and client care, allowing for innovation in program administration. For further guidance on transitioning to roles that combine business acumen with public health, consider how to become a licensed substance abuse counselor in Vermont.

How Can Business Expertise Influence Vermont's Pharmaceutical Sector?

Business professionals can leverage their expertise in operational management, strategic planning, and regulatory compliance to drive innovation within Vermont’s pharmaceutical sector. By applying advanced business strategies, leaders in this field can streamline supply chain practices, optimize inventory management, and implement effective cost-control measures in pharmacy operations. Moreover, a solid understanding of industry-specific licensing is essential for ensuring that commercial practices align with healthcare regulations, including pharmacist licensure requirements in Vermont. This integration of commercial acumen with sector-specific mandates ultimately supports enhanced patient outcomes and sustainable business growth in an increasingly competitive pharmaceutical market.

Getting a High-Quality Business Education in Vermont

Vermont may not be the first state to come to mind when it comes to establishing a flourishing career in business. As such, is getting a degree in business worth it in Vermont? Of course, it is. The state is witnessing a prospering business ecosystem, thanks to its commitment to community-mindedness, sustainability, and innovation.

Such commitment is grounded in how business schools in Vermont make the most of their vibrant business spirit by nurturing connections among students, local businesses, and neighboring states. As a result, students and business professionals here are presented with abundant access to panels, speaker series, and other events that associate them with famed business leaders.

Simply put, changing the story of Vermont’s students, businesses, entrepreneurs, and community members begins with establishing a high-quality business education.

References

1. BLS. (2023, August 18). Economy at a Glance: Vermont. Retrieved August 21, 2023, from BLS.
2. BLS. (2023, April 25). May 2022 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: Vermont. Retrieved August 21, 2023, from BLS.
3. College Board. (2022). Trends in College Pricing and Student Aid 2022. Retrieved August 21, 2023, from College Board.
4. CityRating.com. (n.d.). Cost of Living in Vermont. Retrieved August 21, 2023, from CityRating.com.
5. U.S. Census Bureau. (n.d.). Vermont. Retrieved August 22, 2023, from U.S. Census Bureau.