Sarah Johnson
Written By - Sarah Johnson

Check MarkEdited By Gabriel D.

Check MarkReview & Contribution By Charles Porter

Proficient economic leadership is vital for navigating complex global markets and fostering sustainable growth. An MBA in Economics equips professionals with advanced analytical tools, strategic foresight, and quantitative reasoning skills crucial for making impactful decisions. These flexible programs blend core business principles with deep economic theory, preparing graduates for leadership roles in various sectors.

Leading institutions, such as the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, offer unparalleled rigor rooted in economic thought. Johns Hopkins University provides a unique dual MBA/MS in Applied Economics, emphasizing multidisciplinary insights. For flexible online learning with a distinct focus, programs at Liberty University, Colorado Christian University, and Longwood University stand out, integrating practical application and, for some, a values-based perspective.

Choosing an MBA in Economics requires evaluating curriculum depth, faculty expertise in economic analysis, flexible formats, and career services, ensuring a robust return on investment for a future in economic strategy and leadership.

MBA in Economics Online

Highly Ranked MBA: Economics Programs

LogoName of the universityDescription
Liberty UniversityLiberty University
Known for strategic economic analysis, ethical financial decision-making, and global market understanding.
Colorado-Christian-UniversityColorado Christian UniversityDelivers a Christian worldview integration, strong quantitative methods, and strategic management skills for economic development.
Longwood UniversityLongwood University
Offers integrated data analytics, macroeconomic principles, and strategic management skills for data-driven economic leadership.
Johns Hopkins University Johns Hopkins UniversityProvides a strong foundation in applied economics, quantitative analysis, and strategic business decision-making, with a focus on data-driven insights.
The University of Chicago Booth School of BusinessThe University of Chicago Booth School of BusinessOffers unparalleled flexibility, deep analytical rigor, and a strong foundation in economic theory applied to strategic business problems, emphasizing data-driven decision-making.

Program Aspects & Considerations

Program Aspects & Considerations for an MBA in Economics

  • Curriculum Focus: Prioritize programs emphasizing core economic theory, advanced quantitative methods, and their application to strategic business and financial challenges.
  • Specialization Options: Explore concentrations like financial economics, econometrics, international trade, or public policy to align with specific professional aspirations and industry demands.
  • Program Cost: Anticipate varied tuition expenses based on institutional prestige, public versus private status, credit requirements, and residency or online delivery fees.
  • Admissions Criteria: Verify academic qualifications, any stipulated professional experience, and provide strong recommendations; investigate options for GMAT/GRE waivers.
  • Accreditation Status: Opt for institutions holding regional accreditation, and ideally, specialized AACSB accreditation for its recognized standard of business education excellence.
  • Career Paths: Prepare for advanced roles in economic analysis, market forecasting, financial consulting, risk management, or strategic leadership positions.
  • Faculty & Support: Seek out experienced professors with relevant industry insights, opportunities for practical projects, and robust career development services.
  • Program Structure: Consider the pace (full-time or part-time); most online MBA programs span 30-36 credits, typically completed within 1.5 to 3 years.

Southern New Hampshire University

PROGRAM: Best & Affordable Online Masters Programs

Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on-campus students and over 60,000 online students, making us one of the fastest-growing universities in the country. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.

We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, over our innovative online platform or at our regional centers in Manchester, Nashua, Portsmouth and Salem, NH, and Brunswick, ME.

SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.

Liberty University

PROGRAM: MBA : Economics

Liberty University offers a diverse range of undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and certificate programs designed to offer students the knowledge and skills they can use to succeed. With over 600 programs of study, flexible learning options, and a commitment to academic excellence, Liberty provides a supportive environment for students to achieve their educational and career goals.

Top 5 Accredited Online Master’s in Economics Online (2025 Rankings)

Accredited online MBA programs specializing in Economics equip professionals with advanced analytical and strategic skills for complex financial landscapes. These programs emphasize rigorous economic theory, quantitative methods, and their application to business decision-making. Programs are selected based on their robust curriculum, distinguished faculty expertise, and comprehensive student support. The aim is to provide an educational experience that fosters critical thinking and prepares graduates for impactful roles in diverse industries, enhancing their career trajectories in the dynamic global economy.Here are the 5 best Accredited Online MBA programs in Economics.

To Link to this page, please copy and paste this code into your website

<a href="https://www.onlinemasterscolleges.com/mba-in-economics-online/">MBA in Economics Online
</a>

Code copied successfully!

1. Liberty University- MBA:Economics

Liberty University

Liberty University’s MBA in Economics Online emphasizes understanding global market forces and their impact on the economy. It explores international trade theory, trade policies, and the dynamics of the foreign exchange market. The program prepares students to analyze macroeconomic policies for open economies and their impact on global relations, equipping them for strategic decision-making in a hypercompetitive international economic landscape.

Highlights:

  • Integrated Christian Worldview: Incorporates biblical principles and ethics into economic analysis and business practices.
  • Global Economic Application: Focuses on the practical application of economic theory in global environments, money markets, and international trade.
  • Flexible Online Format: Provides 100% online learning with adaptable scheduling and no GRE/GMAT requirement for admission.

Quick Facts:

Program LengthCreditsCost Per CreditAccreditationGRE Required
As little as 1.5 to 2 years (36-hour track)36 credits~$580 (Graduate Full-Time, subject to change for 2025-2026)Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP); Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)Not required

Why It Made Our List: This program made our list for its strong online flexibility, comprehensive economics curriculum with a Christian worldview, and no GRE requirement for admission.

2. Colorado Christian University – MBA: Economics

3. Longwood University- MBA:Economics

4. Johns Hopkins University -MBA: Economic

5. The University of Chicago Booth School of Business-MBA: Economics

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program-specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

Our Ranking Methodology: How We Chose the Best MBA: Economics Programs

Choosing the premier MBA in Economics programs involves a rigorous, multi-faceted assessment by our expert team. The team at OMC meticulously evaluates diverse critical dimensions to identify top-tier offerings. This comprehensive methodology ensures that each selected program delivers outstanding academic content, cultivates advanced analytical and strategic skills, and provides robust career readiness. Ultimately, this empowers graduates to excel in today’s intricate global economic environment by mastering complex economic analysis and strategic insights.

Why Choose an MBA in Economics Online?

Choosing an MBA in Economics Online uniquely blends rigorous economic analysis with core business administration. It equips professionals not just with managerial skills, but also a profound understanding of market dynamics, policy impacts, and global economic forces. This specialized knowledge enables graduates to forecast trends, assess complex risks, and formulate data-driven strategies, surpassing general business acumen and providing a distinct advantage in strategic decision-making and high-level corporate planning roles across diverse industries.

Benefits of Online Learning

  • Flexibility & Convenience: Study anywhere, anytime, fitting education around work and personal life without relocation, offering unparalleled scheduling freedom for students.
  • Accessibility: Online programs eliminate geographical barriers, providing access to top universities and specialized courses worldwide, thereby significantly broadening educational opportunities.
  • Self-Paced Learning: Students can progress through the material at their own pace, reviewing complex topics or accelerating through familiar ones, thereby optimizing their learning experience.
  • Reduced Costs: Online education often cuts expenses like commuting, campus housing, and sometimes even tuition fees, making higher education more affordable.
  • Diverse Learning Styles: Digital platforms offer varied content formats—such as videos, simulations, and interactive quizzes—catering to different learning preferences and enhancing comprehension.
  • Skill Development: Fosters crucial independent learning, self-discipline, time management, and digital literacy skills, highly valued in today’s professional landscape.
  • Comfortable Environment: Learn from a familiar, personalized setting, which can reduce stress and enhance focus compared to traditional classroom environments.
  • Global Networking: Connect with peers and instructors from diverse backgrounds worldwide, building a valuable international professional network.
  • Career Advancement: Continue working while studying, applying new knowledge immediately, and demonstrating initiative, directly contributing to professional growth.
  • Customized Education: Many programs allow students to tailor their learning paths with specialized electives, aligning education precisely with career aspirations.

Growing Demand for MBA Economics Professionals

  • High Demand: The demand for economists is projected to grow 5% from 2023 to 2033 (BLS). This reflects the increasing complexity of the global economy and the growing reliance on data analysis, creating consistent needs for professionals with advanced economic insights across various sectors.
  • Versatile Skills: MBA graduates in Economics possess strong quantitative analysis, forecasting, and strategic decision-making abilities. These versatile skills are applicable in diverse areas, such as financial modeling, market research (projected 8% growth for Market Research Analysts by the BLS), and policy analysis, enabling adaptation to evolving industry needs.

Industries Hiring Economics MBA Graduates

  • Financial Services: Banks, investment firms, and asset management companies frequently seek these graduates for complex financial analysis.
  • Consulting: Management and economic consulting firms highly value their analytical skills for strategic problem-solving across various sectors.
  • Technology: Tech companies utilize economic insights for market analysis, product strategy, and understanding user behavior.
  • Government/Public Sector: Agencies and think tanks hire for policy analysis, economic forecasting, and research roles.
  • Healthcare: This growing sector needs economic MBA graduates for strategy, operations, and market analysis within its complex systems.

MBA in Economics Online Curriculum Overview

An MBA in Economics Online program integrates rigorous economic principles with core business fundamentals. It deeply cultivates advanced analytical, quantitative, and strategic thinking capabilities. The program emphasizes applying complex economic models and theories to real-world business challenges. Graduates develop a comprehensive understanding of market forces, financial systems, and global dynamics, preparing them to make data-driven decisions and provide high-level insights across various organizational functions.

Core Courses and Electives

Core Courses

  • Global Economic Environment: This course explores microeconomic principles essential for understanding consumer and producer behavior. It examines demand, production, cost, and pricing strategies within various market systems. The curriculum addresses challenges faced by managers in private, public, and non-profit sectors, integrating both domestic and international perspectives on the global economic environment.
  • Money and Capital Markets: This course provides an in-depth examination of the financial system, with a specific focus on its structure and key participants. It explores methods for assessing investment opportunities and pricing associated risks. Additionally, a significant portion delves into the objectives and operational dynamics of central banks, providing insights into their influence on the broader financial landscape.
  • Microeconomic Theory: This course equips students with vital economic concepts for robust business decision-making. It dissects consumer behavior, firm structure, and diverse market dynamics. Analysis extends to factors of production, market efficiency, and equilibrium, revealing their intricate interrelationships and overall impact on organizational performance.
  • International Economics: This course offers a comprehensive global perspective on economic principles. It thoroughly analyzes the theory of international trade, various trade policies, and the complexities of foreign exchange markets. Furthermore, it delves into macroeconomic policies specifically designed for open economies, equipping students to understand and navigate the interconnected global financial landscape.

Popular Electives

  • Intermediate Economic Theory: This advanced course applies economic tools to financial decision-making in diverse organizations. It covers price and distribution theory, comprehensive demand analysis, production costs, and how prices and quantities are determined across various market structures, equipping managers with the critical insights needed for informed strategic choices.
  • Intermediate Macroeconomic Theory:This course examines domestic economic stabilization through fiscal and monetary policies, analyzing their global impact. Topics include national income accounting, the business cycle’s influence on business strategy, economic growth, inequality, and the government’s crucial role in the economy’s overall functioning and stability.
  • Economic Development: This course explores the unique economic characteristics of developing nations. It examines various economic development models, identifies significant obstacles hindering progress, and investigates effective policy and planning strategies designed to facilitate sustainable economic advancement in these regions.
  • International Political Economy: This course examines the intricate interplay between economic and political forces that shape different socioeconomic systems globally. It examines how these dynamics affect various sectors and groups within a society, offering a comprehensive understanding of international economic relations.

Specializations

Specializations allow MBA students to tailor their education precisely to career goals. By focusing on specific areas like finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship, students gain in-depth knowledge and highly relevant skills. This customization enhances expertise, provides a competitive edge in the job market, and aligns coursework directly with professional aspirations, fostering deeper engagement and specialized networking opportunities.

Capstone Projects and Hands-On Learning

Here are the key features of capstone projects and hands-on learning in an MBA in Economics Online program:

  • Real-World Problem Solving: Tackle actual business challenges, applying theoretical economic principles to practical situations effectively.
  • Data Analysis Application: Utilize advanced quantitative methods and software to analyze economic data and make informed decisions.
  • Strategic Decision-Making: Develop and present actionable strategies based on economic analysis, often simulating real corporate scenarios.
  • Case Study Immersion: Engage deeply with complex business cases, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving in varied contexts.
  • Business Simulations: Participate in interactive simulations, managing virtual companies to apply economic and accounting concepts directly.
  • Consulting Engagements: Work on projects for real organizations, providing economic insights and recommendations to external clients.
  • Financial Modeling: Build sophisticated financial and economic models, predicting outcomes and assessing risks for various scenarios.
  • Policy Analysis: Analyze economic policies and their impact on businesses or markets, proposing evidence-based solutions.
  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work in teams with diverse backgrounds, mirroring real-world professional environments for holistic learning.

MBA in Economics Online Admission Requirements

General requirements typically include:

Admission requirements for an MBA in Economics Online typically include:

  • Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited university is generally required for admission.
  • Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all previous educational institutions attended must be submitted.
  • GPA Requirement: Many programs have a minimum undergraduate GPA requirement, typically around 3.0 or higher.
  • GMAT/GRE Scores: Standardized test scores are frequently required, though many programs offer waivers.
  • Work Experience: Professional work experience is often preferred or sometimes mandatory.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two to three letters from professional or academic contacts are needed.
  • Essays/Statement of Purpose: Applicants usually submit essays outlining goals and motivations.
  • Resume/CV: A detailed resume or curriculum vitae highlighting experience is required.
  • English Proficiency: For non-native speakers, TOEFL or IELTS scores might be necessary.
  • Interview: Some programs conduct interviews as part of the final selection process.

MBA in Economics Online No GRE Programs

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test that assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing, traditionally required for admission to graduate school. Many MBA programs in Economics now offer “No GRE” options or waivers, recognizing strong academic performance, extensive work experience, or other advanced degrees as sufficient indicators of readiness. This trend expands access and acknowledges diverse applicant profiles.

Cost of an MBA in Economics Online Program

  • Average Range: Tuition for an MBA in Economics Online program typically ranges from $60,000 to over $100,000 for the entire program, with significant variation between institutions.
  • Factors Affecting Cost: The program cost is influenced by factors such as institution type (public or private), program format (full-time or part-time), school reputation, and location, which impact living expenses and overall fees.

Financial Aid and Scholarships for MBA in Economics Online Programs

Since MBA programs are expensive and student debt is a growing concern, securing financial assistance is often vital for pursuing an MBA in Economics Online. Fortunately, numerous avenues exist to help offset costs. Universities often offer funding opportunities that are awarded based on academic merit or demonstrated financial need. Additionally, many employers recognize the value of upskilling their workforce and provide tuition assistance or reimbursement to employees who undertake such advanced degrees.

Scholarships and Grants

ScholarshipThe University of Chicago Booth School of Business
DescriptionThe University of Chicago Booth School of Business assists MBA students with various funding options. While most finance their education through student loans, Booth offers competitive merit-based scholarships to promising applicants, with no separate application needed. Decisions are based on academic achievement, career goals, and interview quality. Additionally, Booth proudly participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, providing significant support to eligible US military veterans.
Award/AmountVaries
Application DeadlineVaries
ScholarshipForte MBA Fellowships
DescriptionForté Fellowships are highly competitive awards for MBA students who demonstrate leadership and a commitment to advancing women in business. Awarded by partner schools, these fellowships offer significant financial support, exclusive access to a robust network of companies and peers, and professional development opportunities. Fellows are expected to champion Forté’s mission on campus, fostering diversity and inclusion.
Award/AmountVaries
Application DeadlineVaries
ScholarshipNational Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) Graduate Scholarships
DescriptionThe National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) Scholarship Program is a vital initiative supporting aspiring Black business leaders. Annually awarding over $2.5 million, it empowers high-achieving students from top institutions to pursue advanced degrees, including MBAs, without significant financial burden. This program fosters academic excellence and leadership potential, cultivating a strong pipeline of Black talent for executive, entrepreneurial, and innovative roles across diverse industries.
Award/AmountVaries
Application DeadlineVaries

Tuition Assistance and Employer Sponsorships

Tuition assistance and employer-sponsored benefits are programs that help companies cover employees’ educational costs. This can be direct payment or reimbursement for tuition, books, and fees. They reduce financial burden for students, enable upskilling, and boost career advancement. For employers, these programs enhance talent retention, attract new hires, and improve workforce skills and productivity.

Federal Student Loans and FAFSA

  • Federal Student Loans: These are government-funded loans designed to support higher education. They typically offer fixed interest rates, flexible repayment plans, and borrower protections that are not always available with private loans, which require repayment with interest.
  • FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) determines eligibility for federal student aid, including grants, work-study, and loans. It is essential for accessing the largest source of aid for college or career school.

MBA in Economics Online Careers and Salaries

An MBA in Economics Online opens doors to dynamic industries where analytical thinking, market insight, and strategic decision-making are highly valued. Graduates often experience strong earning potential, with salaries increasing significantly over time. This specialization positions individuals for influential roles across various sectors. The investment often yields substantial returns through accelerated career progression and higher compensation packages, reflecting the strong demand for sophisticated economic insights in the business world.

Some of the domains where a graduate of an MBA in Economics Online can find employment include:

Job TitleAverage Annual Salary (USD)Key Responsibilities
Economists$1,15,440 per yearResearch economic issues, analyze data, forecast trends, advise on policy, and present findings.
Senior Financial Analyst$89,616Conduct financial analysis, develop financial models, prepare projections, provide strategic recommendations, analyze performance.
Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents$59,740Review tax returns, determine taxes owed, conduct audits, collect payments, resolve discrepancies.
Personal Financial Advisors$1,02,140Assess client finances, develop financial plans, advise on investments, monitor portfolios, and educate on finance.
Actuaries$1,25,770Analyze financial risk, estimate event probability, design policies, calculate reserves, and explain findings.
Financial Managers$1,61,700Oversee financial health, produce reports, direct investments, develop strategies, advise management.

Accreditation for MBA in Economics Online Programs

Accreditation, such as that from AACSB International, signifies that an MBA program in Economics meets stringent global quality standards. This rigorous external review ensures excellence in curriculum, faculty, and student outcomes. For students, it guarantees a recognized, high-caliber education, enhances career prospects, facilitates credit transfers, and validates their investment in the degree.

How to Choose the Best MBA in Economics Online Program for You

Selecting the right MBA in Economics Online program involves careful consideration to align with individual aspirations.

  • Define Professional Goals: Clarifying specific roles desired, such as economic consultant or market analyst, helps identify programs emphasizing relevant quantitative and analytical skills for future success.
  • Assess Curriculum Focus: Reviewing the program’s coursework ensures it deeply covers desired economic theories, econometric modeling, and data analysis techniques essential for specialized roles.
  • Evaluate Learning Flexibility: Determine if the program’s structure, including asynchronous options or paced schedules, seamlessly integrates with existing professional and personal commitments.
  • Analyze Investment Value: Compare tuition, potential financial aid, and expected career advancement/salary growth. This ensures the program provides a strong return on investment for the individual.
  • Investigate Faculty Expertise: Researching professors’ academic backgrounds, research interests, and real-world experience provides insight into the quality and practical relevance of the instruction provided.
  • Seek Program Insights: Gaining perspectives from current students and alumni offers valuable, unfiltered information regarding program culture, support systems, and the actual professional outcomes for graduates.
  • Confirm Program Recognition: Verify institutional and programmatic recognition (e.g., AACSB accreditation). This assures the quality of education and enhances the degree’s validity and acceptance by employers.

Frequently Asked Questions About MBA in Economics Online Programs

How long does an online MBA in Economics program typically take to complete?

Online MBA in Economics programs typically take around two years for full-time enrollment. Part-time options can extend completion to three or more years, offering greater flexibility. Some accelerated programs may allow completion in approximately 18 months, depending on the credit load.

Can one work full-time while pursuing an online MBA in Economics degree?

How is coursework delivered in an online MBA in Economics program (e.g., synchronous vs. asynchronous)?

Are online MBA in Economics programs self-paced, or do they follow a set schedule?

Can one pursue an MBA in Economics Online without a prior economics background?

Do online MBA in Economics graduates have networking opportunities similar to on-campus students?

Is an MBA in Economics Online worth it?