An MBA (Master’s of Business Administration) is amongst the most popular of graduate college degrees, and with good reason: constant demand in the job market for the skills and knowledge gained. (Approximately 23-25% of masters degrees granted by Title IV institutions between academic years 2009-10 and 2017-18, inclusive, were in business, including but not limited to MBAs.)
At the very least, graduates of an MBA program will gain advanced leadership and management skills, and a deeper understanding of business practices and operations. An MBA also opens up many opportunities for career advancement, greater job responsibilities, and higher earnings.
Regardless of why you’re interested in an MBA, with an online MBA program, no longer do you have to necessarily give up working while completing your degree – especially in a part-time program. This college review list looks at 25 of the most affordable online or hybrid MBA degree programs available.
Article data comes from three sources: NCES (National Center for Education Statistics); IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System) Data Center; individual college websites. The first two sources are maintained by the Dept. of Education and may be 1-2 years behind the third source. Always refer to a college’s website for details, or contact the admissions department.
This is a partial list of terminology and acronyms used in this article.
This is a list of common name variations of the degree as used by universities.
25. University of Nevada-Reno
Reno, Nevada
University of Nevada-Reno (UNR, est. 1874) is a public institution offering high-value bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. UNR has one inexpensive online MBA, which is ranked in both The Princeton Review and USNWR business program review lists, and is aimed at current executives and other business professionals.
This is a top-value, 36-credit, online Executive MBA (EMBA) degree consisting of 12 courses taking two years, with a Fall start date. Each academic year consists of three semesters, with 12-week course sessions. One more proctored exams will be taken per course. Core courses make up 21 credits of the curriculum, while breadth courses make up the remaining 15 credits of the program.
Sample core online courses include: Statistics for Decision Making; Production/Operations Management; Financial Reporting and Analysis. Alternatively, UNR offers a graduate minor in Business Administration.
Additional Information
- Cost: $30000 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 21463
- #grads: 3533
- Affiliation: Nevada System of Higher Education
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
24. University of Wyoming
Laramie, Wyoming
University of Wyoming (UW, est. 1886) is a public institution offering low-cost bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. UW has one top affordable online MBA program, aimed at professionals wanting to build their skills in decision-making and problem-solving in various sectors.
This is an affordable, AACSB International-accredited, cohort-based, fully online degree delivered by the College of Business. The online MBA program takes two years part-time and has two start dates yearly (Fall, Spring). The General track requires 30 credits, while the concentration in Energy Management requires 39 credits.
Sample core online courses include: Financial Accounting; Business Research Methods; Financial Management.
Additional Information
- Cost: $24810 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 12450
- #grads: 2452
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
23. Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Fayetteville State University (FSU, est. 1867) is a public HBCU offering inexpensive bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. FSU has one low-cost, online Master of Business Administration program. It has ranked on USNWR’s Best Online MBA Programs list, and claims the title of the most affordable MBA tuition in the highly-regarded UNC System.
This is a high-value, 36- to 39-credit, AACSB-accredited, online degree offered by the Broadwell College of Business and Economics. Core courses make up 27 credits, while elective/ concentration courses make up 9-12 credits. Students can choose from four certificates (Business; Cyber Security Management; Healthcare Management; Project Management), or several concentration options:
- General
- Business Intelligence and Data Analytics
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- Healthcare Management
- International Business
- Management
- Marketing
- Project Management
- Supply Chain Management
Sample core online courses include: Business and Society; Managerial Accounting; Managerial Economics. Completion of a capstone project is part of the requirements.
Additional Information
- Cost: $24484.15 (estimated in-state program cost)
- Designation: HBCU
- #students: 6318
- #grads: 845
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
22. New Mexico State University
Master of Business Administration
Las Cruces, New Mexico
New Mexico State University (NMSU, est. 1888) is a public institution offering high-quality associate’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. NMSU has one cheap distance MBA program. Students build their understanding of accounting, business law, economics, finance, information systems, management, marketing, and more.
This is a best-value, 36-credit, AACSB International-accredited, hybrid MBA degree offered by the College of Business. It consists of online asynchronous courses, synchronous zoom sessions, and two on-campus requirements of 2- and 3-day sessions. The online MBA program timeline is two years, and students have the following track options: General; Agribusiness; Finance; Information Systems; Public Utility Regulations.
Sample core online courses include: Accounting for Managers; Business Information Systems; Legal Environment of Business. Students can transfer in up to nine qualified grad credits.
Additional Information
- Cost: $23814 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 14289
- #grads: 2602
- Affiliation: New Mexico State University System
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
21. Warner University
Master of Business Administration
Lake Wales, Florida
Warner University (Warner, est. 1968) is a private, nonprofit institution offering top-value associate’s through master’s degrees, plus certificate programs. Warner has one the cheapest online MBA programs. Students will build an understanding of various functional areas of business.
This is a low-cost, 36- to 39-credit, online degree that integrates a Christian worldview into the instruction. Students can choose the standard track (36cr), or from two concentrations: Accounting (36cr); Human Resource Management (39cr). A Good Start track is available for students with no undergrad business background.
Sample core online courses include: Management Information Systems; Marketing Management; Human Resource Management.
Additional Information
- Cost: $21060 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 1116
- #grads: 206
- Affiliation: Church of God
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
20. Delaware State University
Master of Business Administration, MBA
Dover, Delaware
Delaware State University (DSU, est. 1891) is a public institution offering affordable bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs, and serves students on two campuses plus online. DSU has one low-cost online MBA program. It builds the necessary skills for management and leadership “in the new economy.”
Delivered by the College of Business, this is a high-value, 30-credit, AACSB-accredited, online degree that has recently ranked in The Princeton Review’s Best Business Schools list. The online MBA program accepts both part-time and full-time students, and has an accelerated full-time option as well. Track/ concentration options include: General (electives); Business Analytics; CPA; Finance; Information Systems.
Sample core online courses include: Accounting for Decision Making; Organizational Leadership and Behavior; Marketing Management.
Additional Information
- Cost: $20700 (estimated in-state program cost)
- Designation: HBCU
- #students: 4586
- #grads: 378
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
19. Bakke Graduate University
Dallas, Texas
Bakke Graduate University (BGU, est. 1990) is a private, nonprofit institution offering best-value master’s and doctorate degrees. BGU has one affordable MBA program available online. This online MBA program is aimed at current mid-level organizational leaders, and develops entrepreneurial leadership styles based on the principles discussed in the book Joy at Work, by Dennis Bakke.
This is a high-quality, 36-credit, online degree expected to take two years. It offers five tracks/ concentrations: General (electives instead of concentration courses); Entrepreneurship; Personal Leadership Development; Project Management; Social Transformation. It integrates a stewardship mindset and incorporates a Christian worldview applied to business topics.
Courses run nine weeks each, and core courses include: Vision, Values, and Culture; Ecology and Sustainability; Global Economics and Wealth. A capstone project is part of the curriculum.
Additional Information
- Cost: $18600 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 81
- #grads: 81
- Has housing: No
- Accreditation: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, Accreditation Commission
18. Tennessee Wesleyan University
Master of Business Administration
Athens, Tennessee
Tennessee Wesleyan University (TWU, est. 1857) is a private, nonprofit institution offering top-value bachelor’s and master’s degrees. TWU has one of the least expensive online MBA programs. It is designed for professionals looking for career advancement, whether in business, education, government or non-profit sectors.
This is an affordable, 30-credit, 100% online degree delivered by the Goodfriend School of Business. The online MBA program consists of 10 asynchronous courses and takes 12 months full-time or 24 months part-time. It offers two concentrations: Accounting; Management. Contact the school for curriculum information.
Additional Information
- Cost: $15000 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 1008
- #grads: 31
- Affiliation: United Methodist Church
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
17. Virginia Wesleyan University
Master of Business Administration
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Wesleyan University (VWU, est. 1961) is a private, nonprofit institution offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees. VWU is a military-friendly, Yellow Ribbon School that has earned accolades, including G.I. Jobs’ Military Friendly School award (2018). VWU has one of the lowest-cost online MBA programs. It is designed for professionals who seek leadership roles in the current high-tech, global marketplace.
This is an inexpensive, 30-credit, fully online degree with no GMAT requirement. The online MBA program consists of 10 courses and takes at least 12 months. VWU describes this program as being based on four major pillars, which incorporate responsible management, skills and knowledge for a global economy, advanced management practices, and ethical practices in global commerce.
Sample core courses include: Accounting Information and Management Decisions; Operations Management and Decision Making; Ethical Management in a Global Environment.
Additional Information
- Cost: $14970 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 1437
- #grads: 86
- Affiliation: United Methodist Church
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
16. West Liberty University
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
West Liberty, West Virginia
West Liberty University (WLU, est. 1837) is a public institution offering best-value associate’s through master’s degrees. WLU has one cheap online MBA program. In it, students will enhance their “core business competencies,” ideal for leadership/ management careers.
This is a high-quality, 30-credit, online degree delivered by the Gary E. West College of Business. The curriculum consists of 10, 7-week accelerated courses. The online MBA program offers three concentrations: Forensic Accounting; Healthcare Management; Management.
Sample core online courses include: Information Technology Management; Global Economics; Integrative Marketing Management.
Additional Information
- Cost: $13800 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 2526
- #grads: 301
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
15. Chadron State College
Master of Business Administration
Chadron, Nebraska
Chadron State College (CSC, est. 1911) is a public institution offering low-cost bachelor’s and master’s degrees. CSC has one inexpensive online MBA program. It is intended for “supervisory and mid-level managers,” and builds the student’s knowledge of accounting, business management, finance, information management systems, marketing, and more.
This is an affordable, 36-credit, ACBSP-accredited, fully online degree (or choice of hybrid) consisting of 27 credits in core courses and 9 credits in electives (in accounting, business, economics, finance, management or marketing). Up to nine qualified grad credits can be transferred in. Semesters consist of two 8-week sessions. The MBA program timeline is two years, based on graduate course rotations.
Sample core courses include: Managerial Accounting; Information Systems for Managers; Managerial Economics.
Additional Information
- Cost: $13680 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 2448
- #grads: 528
- Affiliation: Nebraska State College System
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
14. Texas A&M University-Kingsville
Kingsville, Texas
Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK, est. 1925) is a public institution offering top-value bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. TAMUK has one of the cheapest AACSB online MBA programs. It is aimed at working professionals wanting to expand their leadership and management skills for career advancement or enhancement.
This is a low-cost, 30-credit, AACSB-accredited, online degree delivered by the College of Business Administration. Classes are approximately 30 students, and the program takes at least 12 months. The curriculum consists of 21 credits of core courses and three courses from electives or certificates. Five certificate options are available: Business Analytics; Collaboration and Team Dynamics; Energy Finance and Logistics; Health Informatics; Managing People in the Global Enterprise. Note: TAMUK has a temporary waiver of GMAT/ GRE scores requirement for students with an undergrad GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Sample core online courses include: Economics and Managerial Decision Making; Information Systems and Business Analytics; Marketing Management and Value Creation.
Additional Information
- Cost: $12700 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 8541
- #grads: 1565
- Affiliation: Texas A&M University System
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
13. Fitchburg State University
Fitchburg, Massachusetts
Fitchburg State University (FSU, est. 1894) is a public institution offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees, plus certificate programs. FSU has one of the least expensive accredited online MBA programs. It is designed for professionals seeking any of a variety of leadership roles, whether executive or front-line management.
This is an affordable, 30-credit, IACBE-accredited, 100% online degree consisting of 10 courses and taking at least 12 months. It offers six MBA options:
- Accounting
- Healthcare Management
- Human Resources Management
- Management
- Marketing
- Supply Chain Management
Sample core courses vary by concentration and include: Organizational Behavior and Development; Management Information Systems; Marketing Management.
Additional Information
- Cost: $12510 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 7199
- #grads: 3036
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
12. Northeastern State University
Master of Business Administration in Business Administration (MBA)
Tahlequah, Oklahoma
Northeastern State University (NSU, est. 1909) is a public institution offering economical bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. NSU has one low cost online MBA program. It is aimed at students wanting to gain the skills necessary to solve business problems in a leadership role.
This is an economical, 36-credit, ACBSP-accredited, online degree delivered by the Director of Business and Technology Graduate Studies It consists of eight core courses and four electives, and typically takes two years. The online MBA program offers eight concentrations:
- Business Analytics
- Environmental, Health and Safety Management
- General Management
- Healthcare Administration
- Healthcare Informatics
- Long Term Care
- Managerial Accounting and Finance
- Native American Enterprise
Sample courses include: Analysis for Decision Making; Information Systems Management; Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
Additional Information
- Cost: $12348 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 7879
- #grads: 1167
- Affiliation: Regional University System of Oklahoma
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
11. Fort Hays State University
Master of Business Administration, MBA
Hays, Kansas
Fort Hays State University (FHSU, est. 1902) is a public institution offering high-value associate’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. FHSU has one cheap online MBA program. It is intended for students seeking to increase their management skills to achieve organizational goals.
This is a high-quality, 34-credit, online degree offering a dozen concentrations, plus a General track:
- Corporate Communication
- Digital Marketing
- Finance
- Health Care Management
- Health and Human Performance/ Sports Management
- Human Resource Management
- Information Assurance
- International Business
- Leadership Studies
- Management Information Systems
- Marketing
- Tourism and Hospitality Management
Sample core courses include: Advanced Managerial Accounting; Marketing Management; Information Systems for Management.
Additional Information
- Cost: $11900 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 15523
- #grads: 2743
- Affiliation: Kansas Board of Regents
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
10. Southeastern Oklahoma State University
Master of Business Administration, MBA
Durant, Oklahoma
Southeastern Oklahoma State University (SOSU, est. 1909) is a public institution offering affordable bachelor’s and master’s degrees, plus certificate programs. SOSU has one low-cost online MBA degree. This is a flexible MBA program suited to people seeking leadership roles in any of several niches, including entrepreneurship.
This is a 36-credit, online degree with 15 tracks/ concentrations:
- General Business
- Accounting
- Aerospace Logistics
- Data Analytics
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- Healthcare Information Systems
- Human Resources
- Management
- Marketing
- Native American Leadership
- Project Management
- Safety
- Strategic Communication
- Women in Leadership
Sample core courses include: Behavioral Management; Management Economics; Accounting for Managers.
Additional Information
- Cost: $11880 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 4542
- #grads: 1398
- Affiliation: Regional University System of Oklahoma
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
9. Western New Mexico University
Master of Business Administration
Silver City, New Mexico
Western New Mexico University (WNMU, est. 1893) is a public institution offering associate’s through master’s degrees, plus certificate programs. WNMU offers one of the more inexpensive MBA programs available online. The program is aimed at professionals seeking management generalist careers in government or private sector.
This is a best-value, 36-credit, ACBSP-accredited, fully online degree delivered by the School of Business and Economics. It offers five tracks: General; International Business, Management Information Systems; Healthcare Administration; Instructional Technology and Design. The online MBA program is expected to take at two years part-time and has three start dates yearly.
The curriculum consists of 11 core courses and one elective. Sample core courses include: Social Responsibility and Business Ethics; Managerial Accounting for Managers; Management and Organizational Theory.
Additional Information
- Cost: $11792.52 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 3248
- #grads: 1003
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
8. Wayne State College
Wayne, Nebraska
Wayne State College (WSC, est. 1910) is a public institution offering top-value bachelor’s and master’s degrees, plus certificate programs. WSC has one of the most affordable online MBA programs.
This is a low-cost, 30-credit, non-thesis, IACBE-accredited, 100% online degree with no thesis requirement, delivered by the School of Business and Technology. It offers two tracks: General, or a focus in Public Accounting. (Note: online tuition is the same regardless of a student’s state of residency.)
Sample core courses include: Financial Administration; Managerial Communications; Decision Science.
Additional Information
- Cost: $11400 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 3633
- #grads: 658
- Affiliation: Nebraska State College System
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
7. Missouri State University
Master of Business Administration
Springfield, Missouri
Missouri State University (MSU, est. 1905) is a public institution offering inexpensive bachelor’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs. MSU has one of the lowest-cost online MBA degree programs. Students build upon their management and team work skills.
This is a best-value, 33-credit, AACSB-accredited, fully online degree offered by the College of Business. The curriculum consists of 24 credits of core courses and 9 credits of electives. (Note: online tuition is the same for in- and out-of-state students.) The online MBA program builds the management and teamwork skills necessary for business leadership roles.
Sample core courses include: Managerial Accounting; Management Information Systems; Advanced Financial Management.
Additional Information
- Cost: $11220 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 23697
- #grads: 3559
- Affiliation: Missouri State University System
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
6. North American University
Master of Business Administration, MBA
Stafford, Texas
North American University (NAU, est. 2007) is a private, nonprofit institution offering best-value bachelor’s and master’s degrees, plus certificate programs. NAU has one cheap MBA program, which builds analytical and leadership skills.
This is an inexpensive, 30-credit, online degree with no GMAT requirement. It offers four concentrations: Business Analytics; Leadership and Change Management; Healthcare Management; Operations Management. Students build upon their knowledge of accounting, economics, finance, management, etc.
Sample core courses include: Managerial Economics; Managerial Accounting and Budgeting; Marketing Management.
Additional Information
- Cost: $11150 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 558
- #grads: 275
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
5. Texas A&M University San Antonio
Master of Business Administration, MBA
San Antonio, Texas
Texas A&M University-San Antonio (TAMUSA, est. 2009) is a public institution offering economical bachelor’s and master’s degrees. TAMUSA has one of the cheapest accredited online MBA programs. The online MBA program is suited to students seeking executive management positions in government, non-profits or business.
This is a high-value, 31-credit degree offered by the College of Business, with a choice of hyflex or hybrid format, the latter of which requires 2.5 hrs/wk on-campus. The curriculum consists of 10 courses (including two electives) and capstone exit exams. At the time of writing, this college has applied for AACSB accreditation. For Fall 2020 applicants, the GMAT scores requirement has been waived.
Sample core courses include: Managerial Economics; Managerial Finance; Managerial Business Statistics.
Additional Information
- Cost: $10730 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 6557
- #grads: 854
- Affiliation: Texas A&M University System
- Has housing: No
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
4. Texas A&M University-Central Texas
Master of Business Administration
Killeen, Texas
Texas A&M University-Central Texas (TAMUCT, est. 1999) is a public institution offering affordable bachelor’s and master’s degrees. TAMUCT has one of the cheapest online/ hybrid Master of Business Administration programs. Students build the skills necessary for organizational problem-solving, promoting initiatives, etc.
This is a top-value, 30- to 36-credit, ACBSP-accredited, online degree offered by the College of Business Administration. It offers five tracks/ Emphasis areas: General; Computer Information Systems; Human Resource Management; Management; Healthcare Administration. (Additional Emphasis options are on-campus only.) The General track is 30 credits, while the Emphasis options are 36 credits each. This online MBA program is ranked in the top 50 for veterans by USNWR. Students gain skills for solving organizational issues, promoting strategic initiatives, and more.
Sample core courses include: Accounting and Management; Management Information Systems; Financial Management.
Additional Information
- Cost: $10557 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 2464
- #grads: 551
- Affiliation: Texas A&M University System
- Has housing: No
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
3. University of Texas of the Permian Basin
Master of Business Administration Accelerated Online
Odessa, Texas
University of Texas of the Permian Basin (UTPB, est. 1973) is a public institution offering high-value bachelor’s and master’s degrees, plus certificate programs. UTPB has one low cost online/ hybrid Master of Business Administration program. The onlnine MBA program builds “performance-based knowledge and people-focused leadership skills.” It ranks in third place in our list of best affordable online MBA programs.
This is a 30- to 33-credit, AACSB-accredited, fully online degree requiring at least 12 months. It offers two tracks: General (30cr) and a Finance concentration (33cr, 15 months), both of which are Accelerated. Note that the program website indicates differing tuition dependent on where a grad student completed their undergrad business degree.
Sample core courses include: Accounting Analysis; Financial Management; Production and Operation Management.
Additional Information
- Cost: $10080 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 5834
- #grads: 1090
- Affiliation: University of Texas System
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
2. Texas A&M International University
Master of Business Administration, MBA
Laredo, Texas
Texas A&M International University (TAMIU, est. 1969) is a public institution offering high-value bachelor’s through doctorate degrees. TAMIU has one of the least expensive online MBA programs. It is particularly suited to students interested in international business, finance or trade. The program earns second place in our list of best value MBA programs.
This is a low-cost, 30-credit, AACSB-accredited, online degree offered by the A.R. Sanchez, Jr. School of Business. It takes at least 15 months, and offers five tracks/ concentrations: International Banking and Finance; International Business; International Trade and Logistics; Management; Negocios Internacionales en Español.
Sample core courses include: Business Research Methods; Strategic Management; Financial Statement Analysis.
Additional Information
- Cost: $10074.3 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 7884
- #grads: 892
- Affiliation: Texas A&M University System
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
1. Georgia Southwestern State University
Online Master of Business Administration
Americus, Georgia
Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW, est. 1906) is a public institution offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees, plus certificate programs. GSW has one cheap online MBA program. It is the cheapest college for an online MBA in this list, coming in first in our review of master of business administration online programs.
This is a high-quality, 30- to 36-credit, AACSB-accredited, online degree offered by the School of Business and Administration within the College of Business and Computing. It is designed for students seeking management skills that cover ethics, finance, international business, management, and marketing. This online MBA program is designed to be completed in two years.
Sample core courses include: Managerial Economics; Marketing Management; Advanced Business Finance.
Additional Information
- Cost: $9252 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 2907
- #grads: 440
- Affiliation: University System of Georgia
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about an online Master’s of Business Administration degree? We’ve answered some of the more popular questions below.
Types of Programs
- Full-time vs Part-time: Any given online MBA programs might be full- or part-time, sometimes both, with the latter making it easier to continue working while studying — or to fulfill any other time-restricting obligations.
- Hybrid vs Fully Online: Fully/100% online programs offer online courses with no on-campus or other in-person requirements (e.g., field work, apprenticeships, thesis defense, etc.). Hybrid programs offer online courses but have some in-person requirements. Blended programs have a mix of online and in-person courses, and may have in-person requirements.
- Synchronous vs Asynchronous: Synchronous courses are broadcast/ streamed at a predetermined time, requiring live attendance, albeit remotely. Asynchronous classes might have a live session but are archived and available on-demand, at the student’s convenience.
Admission Requirements
Cost
MBA program costs can vary greatly from college to college. Programs listed in this article range from about $9.5K to $30K, though others may be less or even as high as $60K. Institutions vary on how program cost is calculated. Here are some of the ways:
- Flat rate per course credit, plus mandatory per-credit/ per-semester fees.
- Flat rate per semester, plus mandatory fees.
- Flat rate for the whole program, with mandatory fees included.
- Variable rate based on number of credits taken per semester, sometimes with a cap after a certain quantity (e.g., lower per-credit rate).
- Subsidized. Example: A graduate military academy may cover student costs; however, competition for such schools is very high.
Note: All degree programs have fees, but some may have mandatory per-course and/or per-semester fees. There may be additional fees as well, possibly waivable.
If you need financial assistance, look into FAFSA federal student loans for graduate programs. If you’re employed, your employer may have education initiatives. If they’re willing to cover your costs, whether up front or a later reimbursem*nt, either way it essentially amounts to free college tuition.
GRE and GMAT
The GRE and GMAT are two popular student assessment tests for graduate program admission. More MBA schools than not probably require scores for one of these tests from applicants. The GMAT is more traditional, given that it was designed specifically for graduate business school admission, while the GRE is a general graduate entrance exam.
Application Process
Each B-school has a slightly different process, although here is summary of common steps, approximately in order:
- Prepare for entrance exams. The GMAT is recommended for MBA programs; however, the GRE is suitable for any grad subject. Some schools also require scores from a test of English language proficiency (such as TOEFL), if you are not born in an English-speaking country. Check with your schools of interest for waiver options.
- Register for and take an entrance exam.
- Fill out and submit your FAFSA application online, for federal loans for grad programs, if you’re qualified. Otherwise, check if your employer will cover costs (and to let them know your plans so that you can ensure no scheduling conflicts between work and college).
- You will likely need to write a personal essay, sometimes two, for B-Schools. These essays are your opportunity to show your relevant background, and to pitch why you’re a fit as a grad student at a particular school. You may need to customize your essay(s) for each B-School.
- Select your academic and professional references, from employers, clients or educators. Usually, 2-3 references suffice, and they will likely have to send their letter of reference directly to each B-School.
- Update your resume, to highlight your relevant work experience. Note that some MBA programs require as much as 10 years.
- Consider hiring a general college consultant, who can help you find B schools suited to your career goals. Also consider an admissions consultant to help improve your chances of acceptance.
- Make a college shortlist, based on program flexibility, outcomes, and your own MBA-related career goals. Use the list of online MBA programs in this article as a starting point. Visting campuses may be unnecessary for an online MBA; however, this is a personal choice. Revise your notes, and make sure you have your final school selections before you start applying.
- For each school on your shortlist, complete and submit your application and fee, along with any required materials (transcripts, essays, letters of recommendation, test scores, etc.), as per the outlined process on their website. Make sure to meet the application deadlines – applying well in advance is even better.
- Interviews. Schools may require an admissions interview to get to know you better, to determine if you are a fit. Such interviews may be in-person, over the phone, or possibly on a Zoom or Skype video call, etc.
- Wait for responses from each admissions department. If you get accepted to more than one school, determine the pros and cons to you personally for each program, to help you decide which B-School to accept.
To find out more, search for “MBA application process” using your favorite Internet search engine. Both USNWR and Princeton Review have suitable guides.
Are there schools where no GRE or GMAT are required? Examples?
Yes. Several such B-Schools are in the reviews portion of this article. Another example, Western Governors University, is listed in the Top-Searched MBA Programs section, below. Currently, due to the COVID-19 pandemic situation, assessment tests may be difficult to complete. As such, some B-schools have temporarily waived test scores for the Fall 2020 starting semester.
Thesis vs Non-thesis Programs
Graduate programs typically have some capstone experience or a thesis, though some are pure coursework. For MBA programs, a capstone might be in the form of an individual or group project, or something else. Masters programs with a thesis are often suited to students who plan to follow up with a doctorate.
Sample Course Requirements
Most MBA programs have mandatory core courses that cover topics such as accounting, business analytics, ethics, management, marketing, economics and finance, amongst others. Other popular topics are supply chain management (SCM), management information systems, organizational behavior. Depending on available tracks/ concentrations, there may be elective courses in any number of other subjects, including healthcare, law, sciences, IT, environment, etc.
What are the advantages and disadvantages to an online MBA?
An online degree in any topic requires self-discipline. Fortunately, an online MBA with asynchronous courses allows students to study on their own schedule. This is one of the biggest selling points of an online masters, besides the fact that many costs of an on-campus program are eliminated (moving, room and board, sometimes textbooks, etc.)
One disadvantage used to be employer bias against online degrees. Fortunately, most educational institutions do not make a distinction between online and on-campus programs on student diplomas. Otherwise an online degree is typically as valuable as the equivalent on-campus program.
How long does it take to complete an online MBA?
Full-time MBA programs can often be completed in 12-15 months, and part-time programs in 18-24 months. Programs with higher credit requirements may take as long as three years part-time.
Can an Online MBA be completed in 1 year?
Yes. In fact, many B-schools have a 12-month full-time online MBA program. However, it will likely be difficult to also maintain full-time work hours.
What can you do with an online MBA?
Any MBA degree adds knowledge and skills applicable to leadership and management roles in many fields and sectors. These can also be applied to entrepreneurial endeavors such as starting a business, or towards consulting for clients.Completing an MBA degree is milestone in itself. What comes after could be a wide range of career opportunities for an MBA graduate. The fact is that there are many possible jobs that you’ll be qualified for with an MBA, so the following list is only a starting point. With a specialized MBA concentration, there are field-specific opportunities as well.
- Accountant
- Administrative Services Manager
- Budget Analyst
- Business Consultant
- Business Operations Manager
- C-level executive – CEO, CFO, CIO, COO, CTO, etc.
- Compensation Manager
- Director of Operations
- Economist
- Education Administrator
- Entrepreneur/ company founder
- Environmental Program Manager
- Financial Advisor
- Financial Analyst
- Financial Manager
- Health Information Systems Manager
- Health Policy Analyst
- Health Services Manager
- Healthcare Administrator
- Higher education management
- Human Resources Director
- Human Resources Manager
- Information Security Analyst
- Information Systems Manager
- Information Technology Director
- Information Technology Manager
- Instructional Director
- International Affairs Director
- International Marketing Manager
- Investment Banker
- Investment Manager
- Logistics Manager
- Management Analyst
- Management Consultant
- Management Information Systems Director
- Market Research Analyst
- Marketing Director
- Marketing Manager
- Leadership roles in media and entertainment
- Leadership roles in food and beverage
- Operations Manager
- Operations Research Analyst
- President
- Product Manager
- Project Manager
- Purchasing Manager
- Revenue Manager
- Sales Director
- Sales Manager
- Securities Analyst
- Senior Financial Analyst
- Senior Strategy Manager
- Senior VP Operations
- Sports management
- Supply Chain Manager
- Transportation Manager
- VP Finance
- VP IT
- VP Marketing
There are also newer opportunities in artificial intelligence, data analytics, fintech (financial technology) and more.
How much can I make after completing my online MBA?
How much you can earn straight out of an MBA program is dependent on several factors, including:
- MBA program taken, and possibly program accreditation. A prestigious school may earn you extra.
- Years of relevant work experience.
- Your pre-MBA salary.
- Job location.
- The industry/ sector of your job, as well as your specific role. Finance and executive roles may earn more than a general management position. An MBA paired with a graduate or undergrad degree in a non-business topic might give you additional earnings potential.
- Any particular concentration taken. General Management, for example, is a popular choice, due to employer demand (according to The Princeton Review).
- Any other degrees that you hold, particularly in other subjects.
Because of so many factors, specific salary numbers are difficult to state. However, earning upwards of, say, $300K out of grad school is not unheard of, but is rare. In terms of percentages, USNWR reports that average salaries for online MBA students circa 2015-2016 increased by about 22% within three months of graduation. Other more recent sources indicate that while some new salaries may be double pre-MBA salaries, 30-50% higher is more common, which may jump to 80% after several years.
Specific numbers: a median base salary of $105K was estimated (for 2018), according to a survey by GMAC. Also check Payscale.com for a breakdown of average median salaries for MBA holders by job, with financial analyst at the bottom of the list at about $62K, and CFO at the top with over $146K.
What kind of networking opportunities are available with an online MBA program?
Networking opportunities for online MBA students vary by B-School, but typically include: peer collaboration (online and in-person); connecting with a mentor representing a school; connecting with alumni; etc.
Do any Ivy League Schools offer an online MBA?
Yes. While Brown University has no B-School, it has partnered with IE Business School (based in Madrid, Spain) to offer a hybrid MBA. Some Ivy League B-Schools do offer relevant online courses in business or entrepreneurship, including via MOOCs. For example, Harvard Business School Online and Wharton Online (University of Pennsylvania).
Here are some top-searched programs that may also be of interest.
