For many contemporary leadership roles, employers prefer candidates holding an MBA, attainable through on-campus or online study. An MBA signifies business mastery, imparting crucial leadership, communication, and management skills. Not only does obtaining an MBA open doors to higher-level positions, but it also swiftly enhances earning potential. In 2022, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a median annual salary of $95,290[1] for Management Analysts. However, individual earnings and career prospects hinge on the institution and specialization chosen. This guide explores the best online MBA programs, providing details on potential courses, MBA prerequisites, and diverse MBA types.
When assessing an institution’s standing, students must weigh factors such as infrastructure, faculty expertise, student support services, program options, affordability, accreditation, and graduation rates. Factoring in these critical elements and more, OMC teams meticulously compiled a list of the top online MBA programs. This comprehensive evaluation ensures prospective students can rely on a well-rounded assessment when choosing the most suitable academic path for their educational and professional aspirations.
Here are the best MBA programs for 2024:
To Link to this page, please copy and paste this code into your website
<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 typically feature a comprehensive curriculum covering core business disciplines, ranging from 36-60 credit hours. Students partake in virtual classrooms, collaborative projects, and discussion forums, exploring subjects like finance, marketing, and management for leadership readiness. The flexible online format suits working professionals, allowing career advancement while balancing commitments. Universities often offer online, off-campus, or hybrid options, with a choice of thesis or non-thesis tracks. Programs usually culminate with internships, field training, or capstone projects, enhancing practical skills.
MBA programs typically comprise a comprehensive curriculum spanning approximately 36-60 credit hours. Core courses cover fundamental business areas, including finance, marketing, and management. Electives allow customization based on career goals. Case studies, projects, and internships offer practical applications, preparing students for real-world challenges. The diverse coursework equips graduates with a holistic skill set for leadership roles in today’s dynamic business environment.
This course focuses on developing leadership skills and effective management strategies. It covers topics such as organizational behavior, team dynamics, and strategic decision-making. Students gain insights into motivating teams, fostering innovation, and navigating the complexities of leadership in various business contexts.
This course explores the principles of financial management. It equips students with the skills to analyze financial data, assess investment opportunities, and make strategic financial decisions. Topics include budgeting, risk assessment, and capital allocation, preparing students for key roles in corporate finance.
This course explores the core principles of strategic marketing. Students delve into market research, brand management, and promotional strategies. This course equips individuals with the skills to develop effective marketing plans, analyze consumer behavior, and navigate the evolving landscape of modern marketing practices.
This course focuses on leveraging data for informed decision-making. Students learn statistical methods, data visualization, and predictive modeling to extract insights. This course equips individuals with the analytical skills needed to drive strategic decisions, optimize processes, and gain a competitive edge in today’s data-driven business environment.
This course emphasizes effective communication strategies for professional settings. Students learn to convey ideas persuasively, create compelling presentations, and navigate interpersonal communication. This course enhances written and verbal communication skills for successful leadership and collaboration in diverse business environments.
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 student’s background in business and teach skills through coursework, exercises, discussions, hands-on practice, and internships. Important skills learned include:
MBA programs offer various degree types, including Full-Time, Part-Time, Executive, and Online formats. Full-time programs are immersive and ideal for recent graduates. Part-time options cater to working professionals, allowing flexibility. Executive MBAs target mid to senior-level executives, emphasizing leadership. Online MBAs offer remote learning. These diverse structures accommodate different lifestyles, career stages, and learning preferences, enhancing accessibility and relevance.
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. These concentrations deepen knowledge, fostering expertise in specific domains. As students tailor their education to align with career aspirations, they gain a competitive advantage in the job market. Specializations enhance overall skills, preparing individuals for diverse roles and empowering them to contribute effectively to the complexities of the modern business landscape.
Area of Focus | Description | Careers This Concentration Prepares For |
---|---|---|
Finance | A Finance specialization focuses on developing expertise in financial management, investment strategies, and risk analysis. Students delve into topics such as capital markets, corporate finance, and financial modeling, preparing them for roles in banking, investment management, and strategic financial decision-making within diverse industries. | Financial analysts, Investment bankers, and Portfolio Managers. |
Marketing | This specialization in MBA programs sharpens students’ skills in brand management, market research, and digital strategies. It equips them with the knowledge to create effective marketing campaigns, analyze consumer behavior, and drive business growth. Graduates are prepared for dynamic roles in advertising, product management, and market development. | Marketing Managers, Brand Managers, and Digital Marketing Specialists |
Healthcare Management | This specialization program focuses on the unique challenges of the healthcare industry. Students explore healthcare policy, organizational leadership, and strategic planning. This specialization prepares graduates for leadership roles in hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and other healthcare organizations, bridging business acumen with healthcare expertise. | Healthcare Administrator, Healthcare Consultant, and Hospital Director |
Human Resources | This specialization concentrates on talent management, organizational behavior, and strategic HR planning. Students develop skills in recruitment, employee relations, and leadership development. This specialization prepares graduates for HR leadership roles, fostering workplace engagement and effective people management in various industries. | Human Resource Manager, Talent Acquisition Specialist, and Employee Relationship Consultants. |
Operations Management | This specialization optimizes business processes, supply chain efficiency, and project management. Students delve into logistics, quality control, and strategic operations. This specialization equips graduates with skills to enhance organizational productivity and drive efficiency across diverse industries, from manufacturing to service sectors. | Operations Managers, Supply Chain Managers, and Logistics Coordinators. |
The graduation timeline for online MBA programs varies but typically ranges from 18 months to three years, depending on factors such as program structure, credit requirements, and student pace. Accelerated options may offer as quicker as one year for completion, while part-time formats allow for increased flexibility but extend the overall duration.
Accelerated MBA programs condense traditional coursework into a shorter timeframe, allowing students to earn their degrees faster. These programs are designed for individuals seeking an expedited path to career advancement. Prospective students should research program structures, admission criteria, and potential challenges. While part-time MBA options offer flexibility, they typically extend the study duration, making accelerated programs attractive for those aiming for a quicker professional impact. Here are a few examples of colleges that offer accelerated MBA programs:
MBA programs are more demanding than any regular master’s program, requiring a comprehensive understanding of business principles, leadership skills, and practical application of knowledge. Applicants to an online MBA program must satisfy specific entrance requirements set by the offering school. Admission requirements for an online MBA program typically include:
Specific requirements vary by program, so checking with the respective institution for accurate details is essential.
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized test used in the admissions process for graduate business programs, particularly MBA programs. It assesses analytical writing, integrated reasoning, and quantitative and verbal skills. The GMAT measures a candidate’s readiness for academic success in business school and is widely accepted by business schools worldwide. Many MBA programs offer waivers for the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) under certain conditions. Some common criteria for waiver consideration include significant professional work experience, advanced degrees (such as a master’s or higher), or other relevant qualifications. Here are examples of some institutions that provide online MBA with no GMAT:
South New Hampshire University4
MBA accreditation is crucial for ensuring the quality and credibility of business education. Accredited programs adhere to rigorous standards, providing students with a well-rounded and recognized qualification. Students should prioritize accredited universities as employers and industries value degrees from these institutions. Choosing an accredited MBA program ensures students receive a high-quality education, enhancing their professional prospects and credibility in the business world. In the United States, there are three main accrediting bodies for MBA programs:
Universities can also be accredited nationally or by one of six regional accrediting agencies:
Students need to ensure that their chosen MBA program is accredited by one or more of these recognized bodies to ensure the quality and credibility of their education.
For more details, please refer to the accreditation guide.
Free online courses offer students accessible learning opportunities without financial barriers. While many provide certificates, they are not accredited degrees. Students benefit from gaining new skills and knowledge; some courses are low-cost or free, making quality education available to diverse learners worldwide. Here are a few free courses that online MBA students can explore.
Course | Online MBA Alternative – The modMBA8 |
Provided by | Udemy |
Description | This course offers a free preview of the full modMBA workshop—a transformative experience for those aspiring to excel in business and life! While lacking an official MBA degree, this workshop imparts nearly all MBA program content and more, serving as a life-changing vehicle for personal and professional enhancement. |
Course | Diploma in Human Resources9 |
Provided by | Alison |
Description | This free course instructs on effective hiring, training, and staff motivation. Human Resource (HR) departments are vital in fostering productive relationships between employees and organizations. The crucial role of HR management in ensuring organizational success highlights the significance of HR managers in optimizing employee performance. |
Course | Business Strategy10 |
Provided by | Class Central |
Description | In this course, students learn how organizations generate, capture, and sustain value. Through this, an understanding develops regarding the fundamental role of this process in ensuring sustainable competitive advantage. Students gain insights into value creation, capture, and tools for analyzing competition and cooperation from various perspectives, such as industry-level (e.g., five forces analysis) and firm-level (e.g., business models and strategic positioning). |
Navigating the financial aspect of funding an online MBA, a field with diverse specializations, requires strategic planning. Since tuition costs can vary based on the chosen field, students should consider the following approaches to make the online MBA more accessible:
Grants are financial aids provided by institutions, governments, or organizations to support individuals pursuing education or specific projects. Unlike loans, grants don’t require repayment, making them valuable resources for alleviating financial barriers and fostering equal access to opportunities.
Graduate Assistantships offer students financial support and valuable experience in academia. In exchange for duties like teaching or research, students receive stipends, tuition waivers, or both. These assistantships enhance professional development and help alleviate the financial burden of graduate education.
Work-study programs offer students part-time employment opportunities, often on campus, to help finance their education. Students gain valuable work experience related to their field of study while earning income to offset educational expenses, fostering a balance between work and academic pursuits.
Student loans are financial instruments designed to assist students in funding their education. Typically offered at favorable interest rates, these loans require repayment after graduation. They are a vital resource for individuals seeking to cover tuition, fees, and other educational expenses.
Given the diverse fields within the MBA, students must diligently search for appropriate scholarships. Accessing financial aid through scholarships helps alleviate the financial burden of advanced education. Institutions, corporations, and organizations offer these merit-based awards tailored to achievements or specific criteria. They play a crucial role in expanding MBA program accessibility and fostering diverse talents in the business sector.
Due to the many 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 up to 2032 | Job Description |
---|---|---|---|
Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Managers11 | $138,730 | 6% (faster than average) | 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 Managers12 | $104,830 | 28% (much faster than average) | 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 service delivery. |
Management Analysts13 | $95,290 | 10% (much faster than average) | 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. |
Human Resources Manager14 | $130,000 | 5% (faster than average) | Human resource managers perform various 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. |
Certifications are generally not mandatory for MBA graduates in the United States. However, obtaining certifications relevant to one’s field or industry can enhance skills, credibility, and employability. Certifications are often considered valuable additions to a resume, but their necessity depends on the specific career path and industry preferences. MBA graduates may pursue certifications based on their career goals and the requirements of their chosen field. Here are two certifications that MBA students can consider:
Certified Management Consultant15
The CMC® designation, a premier credential in management consulting, aligns with prestigious titles like Chartered Professional Accountants. Institutes worldwide collaborate with governments, ensuring CMC® recognition with compliance, competency, and ethical obligations. Across 49 countries, ICMCI-member institutes manage enrolment, curriculum, and audits to uphold global standards, enabling cross-jurisdictional CMC® recognition. In areas without ICMCI institutes, certification is attainable through the CMC-Global Institute (CMC-GI).
Project Management Professional (PMP)16
The PMP certification recognizes individuals adept in overseeing people, processes, and business priorities within professional projects. Established by PMI, the foremost authority on project management, PMP acknowledges project managers with demonstrated leadership experience and proficiency across diverse working methodologies.
Online MBA students benefit from additional resources such as memberships in professional associations like the MBA Association or industry-specific groups. These affiliations offer networking opportunities, access to industry events, and exclusive job boards. Joining relevant associations enhances graduates’ visibility, fosters connections with professionals, and provides ongoing learning, strengthening their post-MBA career prospects and facilitating continuous professional development in a dynamic business landscape.
Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC)17
Founded in 1953, GMAC provides high-quality research, conferences, tools, and assessments for graduate management education. As the widely used GMAT™ exam owner, GMAC serves over 12 million students annually via platforms like mba.com, offering insights into MBA programs, exam preparation, and career guidance. GMAC, with global offices, manages subsidiaries, including BusinessBecause and GMAC Tours.
Established in 2009, the MBA Veterans Network® is a professional networking and advocacy group committed to linking military veteran students and alums from leading universities with employers who appreciate their exceptional academic qualifications, military leadership skills, and boundless career potential.
For over five decades, the Association of MBAs (AMBA) has spearheaded excellence and pioneered innovation as a leading authority in postgraduate management education. Established in 1967, AMBA’s enduring vision remains relevant in today’s dynamic world. Committed to elevating global business education standards, we impact Business Schools, MBA students, graduates, alums, employers, communities, and society.
National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA)20
The National Black MBA Association® is dedicated to spearheading educational, wealth-building, and growth opportunities for historically underrepresented individuals in their capacities as students, entrepreneurs, and professionals. Their mission empowers visionaries intellectually and economically, aspiring to cultivate a world where diversity and inclusion are universally embraced.
An online Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a graduate-level academic program that covers various business disciplines, including finance, marketing, management, etc. Offering flexibility for working professionals, online MBAs enable students to access coursework remotely, fostering skill development and advancing career opportunities.
South New Hampshire University
AACSB International (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business)
ACBSP (Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs)
IACBE (International Accreditation Council for Business Education)
Udemy- Online MBA Alternative – The modMBA
Alison- Diploma in Human Resources
Class Central- Business Strategy
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Medical and Health Services Managers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Management Analysts
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Human Resources Manager
Certified Management Consultant
Project Management Professional (PMP)