Best Online MBA Programs
Want to improve your career prospects and salary potential in the business world? Then consider applying to online MBA programs. Top MBA programs let you specialize in key business topics like finance, marketing, and management.
Full-time students can earn an MBA degree online in two years, while part-time students take around three years. No matter which option you choose, you’ll graduate with the skills needed for a successful career in business.
We ranked the best online MBA programs using criteria like tuition rates, coursework, support services, and student outcomes.
Why You Should Earn Your MBA Degree Online
Some employers require candidates for leadership and executive roles to have an MBA.- Asynchronous online MBA classes let you complete coursework on your own time.
- Out-of-state public universities may offer in-state tuition rates if you enroll in a 100% online program.
- The best online MBA programs feature the same student services as on-campus programs, including resume support and career services.
- Online education makes it easier to network with peers living around the U.S. — or even around the world.
- You can enroll in an out-of-state school without spending money on relocating.
Top Online MBA Programs
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Edinburg, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What Sets It Apart:
UTRGV's online MBA allows you to graduate in as little as 12 months. Short, intensive courses let you focus on fewer subjects at once. The curriculum emphasizes modern, data-driven skills like business intelligence, data warehousing, and marketing analytics.
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $472
Out-of-State | $472
Credits to Graduate: 36
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB International
Why Students Choose UTRGV:
- Accelerated Timeline: The 12-month program is ideal for working adults seeking a rapid return on investment.
- Analytics Emphasis: Courses in business intelligence, data warehousing, and marketing analytics build modern, data-driven skills.
- No Application Fees: Apply for free with no added cost.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Multiple start dates let you begin classes when it fits your schedule.
- Foundation courses are available if you don’t have a business background.
67%
$ 6,948
81%
$14,499
- Acceptance Rate
- 94%
- Students Enrolled
- 33,881
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
- Minneapolis, MN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What Sets It Apart:
The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities (UNM) offers an online MBA with strong career outcomes, including solid salary increases and promotion rates. Its flexible completion window of 2-7 years lets you tailor the pace to your work and life demands. UNM also offers an in-person residency that helps you build local connections within the industry.
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,797
Out-of-State | $1,797
Credits to Graduate: 52
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB International
Why Students Choose UNM Twin Cities:
- Career Outcomes: UNM graduates in 2024 reported a 62% average salary increase and a 39% promotion/advancement rate within just four months.
- Flexible Timeline: Complete the online MBA in 2-7 years at your preferred pace.
- Built-In Residency: Connect with local employers and classmates through an in-person residency in Minneapolis-St. Paul.
Know Before You Enroll:
- The program does not offer specializations, but extensive elective options allow you to customize your MBA.
- You may automatically receive a 15% tuition discount if you apply by the priority deadlines or qualify through military or corporate partner status.
36%
$19,116
91%
$29,580
- Acceptance Rate
- 80%
- Students Enrolled
- 56,666
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Maryland-College Park
- College Park, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What Sets It Apart:
The UMD's online MBA stands out for its AI-forward curriculum, covering topics such as machine learning, intelligent technologies, and modern global disruptions. You can also add in-person courses, certificates, and experiential learning at three Maryland/D.C. campuses, including action learning projects and opportunities to help manage a $1 million global equity fund.
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,733
Out-of-State | $1,733
Credits to Graduate: 54
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB International
Why Students Choose UMD:
- AI-Focused Curriculum: Learn how AI is reshaping business and build skills that give you an edge in a rapidly evolving landscape.
- Specialization Options: Choose from four career-focused specializations, along with electives in AI, analytics, supply chain, and technology management.
- Career Services: Access lifetime career support, including coaching, workshops, mock interviews, and recruiting tools.
Know Before You Enroll:
- If admitted, you must submit a $750 deposit within four weeks to secure your seat in the program.
- Merit scholarships up to $25,000 are available for spring and fall 2026 students.
- The program is a combination of live online classes and self-paced learning.
30%
$16,560
96%
$36,100
- Acceptance Rate
- 45%
- Students Enrolled
- 41,725
- Institution Type
- Public
California State University, San Bernardino
- San Bernardino, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What Sets It Apart:
CSUSB's online MBA includes a unique bootcamp that helps you build key business skills before starting your core courses. The program offers true flexibility for working adults. You have the option of completing the MBA quickly with a structured 21-month plan or choosing a slower, more flexible pace.
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,100
Out-of-State | $1,100
Credits to Graduate: 48
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB International
Why Students Choose CSUSB:
- MBA Boot Camp: This structured set of prep modules helps you improve business fundamentals before moving onto core courses.
- Focused Sessions: Two 6-week sessions per semester let you concentrate on one class at a time.
- Accelerated or Flexible Path: Finish in as little as 21 months or extend your timeline as needed.
Know Before You Enroll:
- This program is fully self-paced (asynchronous).
- You must have at least two years of professional experience to apply.
74%
$ 7,176
80%
$16,680
- Acceptance Rate
- 93%
- Students Enrolled
- 17,900
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Utah
- Salt Lake City, UT
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What Sets It Apart:
The University of Utah's online MBA is designed for working professionals and delivered through a custom-built digital platform. You can stack certificates in areas such as business analytics, cybersecurity management, and information systems, or pursue dual degrees like the MHA, MSBA, or MS in finance. The program also allows you to mix online and on-campus courses for added flexibility.
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,500
Out-of-State | $1,500
Credits to Graduate: 48
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB International
Why Students Choose Utah:
- Stackable Credentials: Choose from five dual degree programs and four stackable certificates to increase your career potential.
- Promotion Rate: About half of Utah online MBA students receive a promotion before they graduate, while 36% of graduates reported an average 36% salary increase.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Expect a mix of asynchronous (self-paced) and synchronous (live) learning.
- Admissions scholarships are available to newly admitted students, but they are limited to a first-come, first-served basis.
50%
$ 7,353
86%
$25,961
- Acceptance Rate
- 86%
- Students Enrolled
- 36,894
- Institution Type
- Public
Application Requirements for an Online MBA
Completed application and application fee- Undergraduate transcripts
- Resume
- Statement of purpose
- 2-3 letters of recommendation
- GMAT or GRE scores, if required
- Interview, if required
Price Check
The average cost of an MBA is around $17,058 in tuition and fees, according to 2020 data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
Importance of Accreditation for Online MBA Programs
The best online MBA programs hold both institutional and programmatic accreditation.
You can check a school’s accreditation status by using the directories on the Council for Higher Education Accreditation website or the Department of Education website.
Top MBA programs should hold programmatic accreditation from one or more recognized business program accreditors:
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
- International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)
Programs with AACSB, ACBSP, or IACBE accreditation offer many benefits, including a rigorous curriculum and high-quality student services. These programs also do the most to help you land a job.
What You’ll Study in an Online MBA Program
In an online MBA program, you’ll learn business and accounting basics. You’ll study topics like business strategy, operations management, entrepreneurship, business law, and microeconomics.
Online MBA programs require 36-48 credits across a mix of core and elective courses. You’ll also likely need to complete a capstone or thesis project.
Some programs give you the opportunity to do an in-person internship at a local business.
Most online MBA programs let you tailor your coursework to a specific concentration, such as finance or human resources.
Common MBA Concentrations
MBA concentrations give students specialized training in specific areas of business and can lead to a salary boost. You can complete an MBA in healthcare administration, entrepreneurship, finance, supply chain management, or hospitality management, among other specialties explored here.
How Much Does an Online MBA Cost?
The average MBA program charges $17,058 in annual tuition and fees, according to 2020 NCES data. Many factors affect the cost of online MBA programs, such as whether you qualify for in-state tuition.
You can lower your out-of-pocket expenses in several ways, including by applying for federal financial aid. You must submit the FAFSA each year if you want to qualify for federal grants and low-interest loans. Your school’s financial aid office can help you fill out this form accurately.
Other aid includes scholarships for MBA students.
Jobs for MBA Graduates
The jobs available for MBA graduates depend on a person’s individual concentration. For example, you may want to research programs with finance concentrations if you hope to become a finance manager.
An MBA can also help you advance your career if your employer restricts management-level positions to employees with advanced degrees. Many MBA job hubs exist to help you find a first job or start a new career. You can use these to research the latest postings for popular MBA jobs like those in the table below.
| JOB | MEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY (MAY 2024) | JOB GROWTH RATE (2024-2034) | MINIMUM EDUCATION REQUIRED |
|---|---|---|---|
| Financial Managers | $161,700 | 15% | Bachelor’s |
| Human Resources Managers | $140,030 | 5% | Bachelor’s |
| Top Executives | $105,350 | 4% | Bachelor’s |
| Financial Analysts | $101,910 | 6% | Bachelor’s |
| Project Management Specialists | $100,750 | 6% | Bachelor’s |
| Personal Financial Advisors | $102,140 | 10% | Bachelor’s |
| Management Analysts | $101,190 | 9% | Bachelor’s |
| Financial Examiners | $90,400 | 19% | Bachelor’s |
| Budget Analysts | $87,930 | 1% | Bachelor’s |
| Accountants and Auditors | $81,680 | 5% | Bachelor’s |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online MBA Programs
On-campus and online MBA programs usually take full-time students about two years to finish. If you opt for an accelerated MBA, you may finish in as few as 1.5 years. Part-time students, on the other hand, typically take 3-3.5 years to earn their MBA.
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