For many of today’s leadership positions, employers prefer candidates with an MBA. Completed either on campus or online, and MBA demonstrates a mastery of business, teaching important skills like leadership, communication, and management.
Not only does an MBA lead to higher-level positions, but completing the degree can quickly boost salaries. A recent report by the National Association of Colleges and Employers projects an average 2023 salary of $75,197 for MBA graduates, compared to just $57,939 for those with a bachelor’s in business. However, earnings and potential positions depend on where individuals earn their degree and what specialty they choose. This guide explores the best online MBA programs and includes information on potential courses, MBA requirements, and different types of MBAs.
While each MBA program offers a unique advantage, these rankings focus on selecting the highest-quality online MBA programs available, taking into account factors such as prestige, degree outcomes, and affordability.
<a href="https://www.onlinemasterscolleges.com/online-mba-programs/">Online MBA Programs</a>
Code copied successfully!
College Name & Address | Tuition | Graduation Rate |
---|---|---|
#1 Touro University Worldwide 10601 Calle Lee #179, Los Alamitos, California 90720 | $9,000 | 100% |
#2 University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill 103 South Bldg Cb 9100, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599 | $10,552 | 91% |
#3 University of Virginia 1827 University Avenue, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903 | $16,578 | 95% |
#4 University of Florida Tigert Hall, Gainesville, Florida 32611 | $10,770 | 88% |
#5 University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign 601 E John Street, Champaign, Illinois 61820 | $14,997 | 85% |
#6 University of Scranton 800 Linden Street, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18510 | $54,720 | 88% |
#7 Villanova university 800 Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, Pennsylvania 19085 | $20,506 | 90% |
#8 University of Minnesota-Twin Cities 100 Church Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455 | $17,580 | 83% |
#9 Creighton university 2500 California Plaza, Omaha, Nebraska 68178 | $16,128 | 81% |
#10 Saint Joseph’s University 5600 City Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19131 | $17,334 | 81% |
#11 Lehigh University 27 Memorial Drive West, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015 | $27,000 | 90% |
#12 University of Southern california University Park, Los Angeles, California 90089 | $46,272 | 92% |
#13 Johns Hopkins University 3400 N Charles St, Baltimore, Maryland 21218 | $55,350 | 93% |
#14 Carnegie Mellon University 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213 | $45,037 | 90% |
#15 Boston University One Silber Way, Boston, Massachusetts 02215 | $54,720 | 88% |
#16 Stevens Institute of Technology Castle Point On Hudson, Hoboken, New Jersey 07030 | $36,680 | 85% |
#17 George Washington University 1918 F Street, NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20052 | $31,770 | 82% |
#18 Syracuse University 900 South Crouse Ave., Syracuse, New York 13244 | $38,880 | 83% |
#19 University of Iowa 101 Jessup Hall, Iowa City, Iowa 52242 | $10,079 | 72% |
#20 Union University 1050 Union University Dr, Jackson, Tennessee 38305 | $9,000 | 68% |
#21 Saint Joseph’s College of Maine 278 Whites Bridge Rd, Standish, Maine 04084 | $9,470 | 67% |
#22 Maryville University 650 Maryville University Drive, Saint Louis, Missouri 63141 | $14,346 | 71% |
#23 University of Sioux Falls 1101 W 22nd St, Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57105 | $7,020 | 64% |
#24 Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota 700 Terrace Heights, Winona, Minnesota 55987 | $9,180 | 64% |
#25 Concordia University-Wisconsin 12800 N Lake Shore Dr, Mequon, Wisconsin 53097 | $11,052 | 64% |
#26 Regis University 3333 Regis Blvd, Denver, Colorado 80221 | $14,441 | 64% |
#27 Kettering University 1700 University Avenue, Flint, Michigan 48504 | $13,332 | 63% |
#28 Northwest Nazarene University 623 S. University Blvd., Nampa, Idaho 83686 | $10,464 | 61% |
#29 University of St Francis 500 N Wilcox St, Joliet, Illinois 60435 | $13,464 | 62% |
#30 Gwynedd Mercy University 1325 Sumneytown Pike, Gwynedd Valley, Pennsylvania 19437 | $13,749 | 60% |
#31 Fitchburg State University 160 Pearl St, Fitchburg, Massachusetts 01420 | $3,186 | 58% |
#32 William Woods University One University Avenue, Fulton, Missouri 65251 | $6,480 | 58% |
#33 Freed-Hardeman University 158 E Main St, Henderson, Tennessee 38340 | $10,980 | 58% |
#34 Arizona State University 411 N Central Ave, Phoenix, Arizona 85004 | $11,720 | 58% |
#35 Trine Online 1 University Ave, Angola, Indiana 46703 | $39,450 | 63% |
#36 Mississippi College 200 South Capitol Street, Clinton, Mississippi 39058 | $11,250 | 57% |
#37 Gardner-Webb University Main St, Boiling Springs, North Carolina 28017 | $9,000 | 56% |
#38 Trevecca Nazarene University 333 Murfreesboro Rd, Nashville, Tennessee 37210 | $9,917 | 56% |
#39 Arkansas State University 2105 E. Aggie Road, Jonesboro, Arkansas 72401 | $4,986 | 53% |
#40 Concordia University, Saint Paul 1282 Concordia Ave, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55104 | $8,550 | 51% |
#41 Columbia International University 7435 Monticello Rd, Columbia, South Carolina 29203 | $9,360 | 51% |
#42 Concordia University, Chicago 7400 Augusta, River Forest, Illinois 60305 | $8,910 | 47% |
#43 Saint Leo University 33701 State Road 52, Saint Leo, Florida 33574 | $7,296 | 49% |
#44 University of the Cumberlands 6191 College Station Drive, Williamsburg, Kentucky 40769 | $5,670 | 44% |
#45 Rivier University 420 South Main St, Nashua, New Hampshire 03060 | $11,340 | 46% |
#46 University of Houston,Victoria 3007 N. Ben Wilson, Victoria, Texas 77901 | $6,338 | 19% |
#47 Wilmington University 320 Dupont Hwy, New Castle, Delaware 19720 | $8,784 | 21% |
#48 Western New Mexico University 1000 W. College Ave, Silver City, New Mexico 88061 | $3,356 | 34% |
#49 Adams State University 208 Edgemont Blvd, Alamosa, Colorado 81101 | $4,590 | 30% |
#50 Nova Southeastern University 3301 College Ave, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33314 | $19,665 | 58% |
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
Online MBA programs cover an array of business topics, ranging from strategic finance to interdepartmental communication. Those looking to gain new skills and advance their career into leadership roles pursue this degree. Depending on your goals, you may benefit from a specific type of MBA, an online MBA over a traditional MBA, and a specific specialization.
Many schools offer MBA programs, and each creates a unique program structure to attract different types of students. One student might benefit most from an accelerated program that fast tracks their route to a promotion. Another learner might continue working while earning their degree, focusing on affordability over fast learning. Spend time comparing the different types of MBA programs to select the option that’s best for you.
Most full-time MBA programs estimate that students graduate in two years. Accelerated online MBA programs speed up the process by utilizing year-round education and shorter, more intensive courses. The best accelerated online MBA degrees see students graduate in as little as one year. Consider this option if you can commit to a quick yet intensive program.
Colleges and universities that offer MBAs online tend to charge a lower tuition cost than for on-campus programs. Some institutions go even further, offering an online MBA at an exceptionally low cost. These programs usually offer more flexibility, too, great for anyone with a busy work schedule or home life.
Some schools, such as Quantic and New York University of Business and Technologies, offer MBAs free of charge. These institutions work with businesses to develop talent, and students benefit by earning a tuition-free MBA. Other universities, such as Stanford University, MIT, and Yale University, offer some MBA course sessions for free. These not-for-credit course sessions don’t lead to an MBA, but they do teach introductory skills and provide prospective MBA students with an idea of what a full-time MBA program might look like.
Dual MBA Programs Online: Instead of completing just an MBA, some students earn two degrees at one through an online dual MBA program. These programs combine a traditional MBA with a complementary field, such as healthcare, international studies, or public administration. A dual MBA typically takes three years to complete and benefits those working in a specific industry.
Ideal Match for: Industry-specific professionals, those looking to transition into a specific role.
Executive Online MBA and Part-Time Online MBA: Executive and part-time online MBA provide the most flexibility to students. An executive MBA is intended for current business professionals, teaching actionable skills from the beginning of the program. A part-time MBA follows the structure of a normal MBA, only with added flexibility to work around individuals’ schedules. Both options usually take 2-3 years to complete.
Ideal Match for: Working business professionals, thos unable to commit to full-time study.
Online MBA Programs with No GMAT Requirement: Every college and university that offers an MBA sets its own admissions requirements. Most programs require applicants to submit GMAT scores, scores that reflect a student’s readiness for an MBA program. However, the GMAT requires intensive study, and test-takers must complete four separate sections. Schools that set no GMAT requirements make it easier to meet admission requirements.
Ideal Match for: Busy learners, applicants who want to avoid taking standardized tests.
Online MBA Master’s with an Unrelated Undergraduate Degree: Although many online MBA programs require applicants to hold a bachelor’s in business and some professional business experience, not all programs set these requirements. Those with no previous business experience can earn an MBA, and some professionals find an MBA fits their long term goals better than a graduate degree in their current field.
Ideal Match for: Professionals looking to develop leadership skills, those looking to transition into a business role.
Veteran-Friendly MBA Programs Online: Created for those who served the country, veteran-friendly MBA programs offer incredible flexibility, significant tuition discounts, and waivers during the admissions process. Those that hold Veteran status can earn their MBA online through one of these programs, only with many more benefits than a traditional student might receive.
Ideal Match for: Veterans interested in business, veterans looking to develop new skills.
MBA students need to select between an online or a traditional MBA. While both options lead to the same outcome, students might prefer the benefits of one type of degree over the other. Here are factors to consider when comparing the two.
An MBA teaches the broad skills required to succeed in leadership roles and management-level positions. However, most online MBA programs also allow students to select a specialization. Depending on your current or desired field, one of the following common specializations could be an excellent fit for your MBA.
Area of Focus | Description | Careers This Concentration Prepares For |
---|---|---|
MBA in Accounting | Created to handle modern accounting needs, and MBA in accounting teaches students to analyze data with computer-based programs, look over and create financial reports, and cover topics required to pass the CPA exam. Many programs teach both managerial and financial accounting. | Accountant Accounting manager Budget Analyst Auditor Financial Planner Financial Manager |
MBA in Business Analytics | Business Analytics is a specialization that prepares students to study data to make intelligent business decisions that have a deep impact on the overall outlook for the business | Management Analyst Data Analyst Business Intelligence Analyst |
MBA in Entrepreneurship | Great for anyone looking to get involved in small businesses and startups, an entrepreneurship specialization includes introductions to venture lifecycles, the conception of a business plan, and funding endeavors. Some programs emphasize hands-on learning and have students pursue their own enterprise while completing an MBA. | Business manager General manager Owner/Founder Executive |
MBA in Finance | Among the most popular MBA specializations, finance focuses on practical managerial skills. Learners gain hands-on experience with securities, investments, financial statements, real estate finance, and mergers. More specific topics covered include international finance, banking, and financial institutions. | Financial analyst Investment analyst Business manager Financial advisor |
MBA in Healthcare Management | Breaking away from traditional business focuses, a specialization in healthcare management blends the management and leadership with the legal and ethical issues of healthcare. Students extensively study different types of healthcare plans, collaborate with healthcare providers, and review financial best practices with regards to healthcare. | Health services manager Medical services manager |
MBA in Human Resources | A specialization in human resources includes topics such as staffing, planning, developing talent, and retaining talent. Students also learn to communicate with all levels of an organization, serving as an important point of contact within an organization. This specialization focuses heavily on theory, regulations, law, and ethics. | Human resources manager Employee compensation specialist Labor relations specialist |
MBA in Information Systems/Technology | As information systems continue to grow and become more complex, skilled individuals must communicate IT issues with non-versed employees across an organization. This specialization teaches computer network implementation, network maintenance, and new technology integration. Students also learn to work closely with IT professionals and other management-level workers. | Database manager Information systems manager Information systems analyst Chief technology officer |
MBA in International Business | A specialization in international businesses includes a variety of business topics, running from supply chain management to sales. However, students must also learn different global accounting and financial practices, international business laws, and communication with international businesses. Some programs require or promote students attending a residency abroad to learn in-person for a short period of time. | Human resources manager Financial manager Marketing manager Executive |
MBA in Marketing | An MBA in marketing combines traditional marketing strategies with modern practices. Due to the growth of digital marketing, many marketing specialization students focus on digital analytics, market segmentation, and cross-platform marketing strategies. These programs also teach students to conduct market research, analyze consumer behavior, and collaborate with other students. | Digital marketing manager Marketing manager Advertising manager Brand manager Marketing research analyst |
MBA in Nonprofit Management | Instead of focusing on cutting costs, increasing efficiency, and maximizing profits, non-profit organizations focus on raising funds, building a sustainable business model, and remaining compliant with federal regulations. This specialization teaches students to become leaders for non-profits and includes an array of topics including finances, information systems, strategic management, and marketing. | Financial planner Consulting manager Director of operations Owner/Founder Executive |
MBA in Project Management | Best for those that yearn for a leadership position, the project management specialization teaches learners to communicate with others, build team chemistry, and lead a team toward short and long term goals. This specialization usually combines theoretical practices with analytics and focuses on the strategic distribution of resources, personnel, and energy. | Project manager General manager Supply chain manager Management analyst |
MBA in Supply Chain Management | The fast-growing field of supply chains requires skilled managers to maintain, scale, and improve existing supply chains. A supply chain management specialization introduces different operating systems for managing supply chains, teaches students to communicate with other supply chain professionals, and develops students’ abilities to create new strategies for procurement and distribution. | Supply chain manager Logistics manager Purchasing manager Global transportation manager Loss prevention manager |
Before selecting an online MBA program, note that each school sets its own requirements for admission. Spend time gathering your application materials and be prepared to submit items including the following:
As graduate-level programs, MBA degrees require applicants to first earn a bachelor’s degree. While schools prefer applicants with a background in business, students may hold any degree so long as it was earned from a regionally accredited institution.
MBA admissions typically require a 3.0 GPA or higher on previous college transcripts. Some might require a GPA of 3.5, and others may prefer to see a 3.0 GPA on all courses related to business.
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized test that determines an applicant’s readiness to begin an MBA program. Minimum score requirements vary, though most schools require a 650 or higher.
Many MBA programs created their curricula for seasoned professionals looking to learn new skills. Admissions may require you to first complete 1-2 years of business experience, with some elite programs requiring more than five years.
To determine your commitment to an MBA program, schools ask applicants to submit 2-3 letters of recommendation. These can come from previous college professors, managers/employers, or superior officers in the military.
All MBA programs include some elements of leading and managing, two skills necessary for many MBA career outcomes. Usually taken toward the beginning of an MBA program, leading and management teaches different theories for leading teams, communicating with employees, and utilizing teamwork to accomplish goals.
This course covers high-level financial decision making for firms, small businesses, or large organizations. Most financial decision-making courses introduce problems to students, and students develop financial solutions. Students typically complete a large case study toward the end of this course.
Required for those specializing in marketing and often taken by all MBA students, marketing management provides an overview of effective marketing strategies. Course topics covered typically include strategic planning, consumer behavior analysis, competitive positioning, advertising, digital marketing, and social media marketing.
Business analytics introduces the various statistical tools used by analytics professionals to determine risk, forecast, and make evidence-based decisions. This course sometimes includes high-level topics like data mining and simulations. Students then learn to incorporate the analytic tools they learned into spreadsheets and communicate their findings to others within the organization.
his course teaches students to communicate with all types of professionals over different mediums, including memos, letters, emails, chats, video chats, and face-to-face discussion. Students also learn to use different tones and styles in different situations. Finally, learners cover different communication strategies used by business leaders when working with clients and customers.
The timeline varies by several factors such as full time/part-time, your background, the program, how many credits you sign up, etc. But most students finish online MBA programs around two years.
The cost varies significantly from various factors such as full time/part-time, the university, etc. According to Investopedia, an MBA might cost up to $140,000. However, there are cheaper options available. Check the affordable online MBA program rankings
Unlike more technical degrees, an MBA teaches many theories and skills that must be learned beyond the classroom. As a result, many online MBAs draw from each students’ background in business and teach skills through coursework, exercises, discussions, hands-on practice, and internships. Important skills learned include:
When comparing potential online MBA programs, look for Accreditation. Accreditation means that school and/or program meets academic standards set by an accrediting organization, and accrediting organizations are backed by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). In turn, CHEA is backed by the US Department of Education. Only apply to colleges and universities that hold regional Accreditation over national Accreditation. If you do not choose a regionally accredited school, you may not qualify for federal financial aid and employers may select other candidates.
Also, it’s worth looking for an MBA program that holds regional Accreditation from either the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) or the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). These accrediting organizations focus on business schools but sometimes accredit specific programs, including MBAs. Studying at an ACBSP or AACSB school ensures that you earn one of the top MBA degrees available.
If you want to learn more about accrediting organizations, how to find out whether a program is accredited, and the different types of Accreditation, our Accreditation Guide answers the most common questions associated with Accreditation.
Due to a large number of specialties available to students, an MBA leads graduates down various career paths. Regardless of the field a graduate works in, most MBA graduates end up in management roles, using their new skills and experience to lead teams. Specific job titles depend on the student’s interests, specialization, and previous experience. The following roles include many popular outcomes, including salary expectations and job growth projections. However, while an MBA prepares individuals for the following positions, note that no amount of education guarantees a specific career or salary.
Occupation | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (2018-2028) | Job Description |
---|---|---|---|
Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Managers | $135,900 | 8% | Advertising, promotions, and marketing managers work to promote products and services for businesses. Duties include planning promotional campaigns, negotiating advertising contracts, and analyzing markets to find target customers. |
Medical and Health Services Managers | $100,980 | 18% | Also known as healthcare executives or administrators, these professionals coordinate health services. These professionals manage entire departments or facilities and work to improve the efficiency of healthcare services delivery. |
Management Analysts | $85,260 | 14% | Management analysts, or management consultants, gather information about organizations and make them more efficient. Daily tasks include analyzing data, finding solutions, and recommending solutions to management. |
Financial Analysts | $85,660 | 6% | A financial analyst looks at financial records and historical data to determine business trends. They also recommend investment strategies, determine the valuation of businesses, and prepare reports for executives and public investors. |
Human Resources Manager | $116,720 | 7% | Human resource managers perform a variety of tasks, from recruiting new hires to consulting with executives on strategic planning. HR managers handle staffing, employee pay and benefits, and internal office issues between coworkers. |
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
One of the most important factors, when choosing a higher education degree like MBAs, is how to pay the cost of the program. There are several ways students fund their online MBAs. Here are some of them:
Read more about how to pay for higher education on the best financial guide.
Scholarships are another way to pay for your online MBA program. Many organizations offer scholarship awards to students pursuing MBAs or other business degrees. These scholarships may not fully fund your online MBA program, but they will certainly help. Here are some scholarships that online MBA students can apply for:
MBA graduates can choose from a variety of career certifications. Depending on your future career choice, a certification could even be required. Stay notified and up-to-date on relevant certifications and licenses.
Students planning on or currently pursuing an online MBA have plenty of resources available to them. Professional societies, certifying organizations, and networking sites all help MBA students prepare for their future careers.
You can get ahead of the curve with education and career updates. Our newsletter explores the latest articles, top-ranked online master’s degree programs, scholarships, and career salaries and outlooks.
Note: By entering your email address and clicking “Sign Me Up,” you agree to be contacted by OnlineMastersColleges.com for educational products or services. You can unsubscribe anytime.