Accelerated MBA programs offer ambitious learners a path to earning a valuable professional degree on a compact timeline. Regularly paced MBA programs typically require about two academic years (four semesters) of full-time study. A program qualifies as accelerated if it leads to graduation in three semesters or less.
Accelerated MBA programs often use accelerated terms or semesters to move students through coursework more quickly. Because of their fast pace, they also tend to have competitive admission standards.
This guide explains how accelerated business degrees work, including their potential benefits. It also includes a ranked list of the best accelerated programs for MBA students seeking efficient degree upgrades.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Accelerated Online MBA Degrees
#1 Discover the Best Accelerated MBA Programs
Missouri State University-Springfield
- Springfield, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Missouri State University-Springfield, a leader in online learning, offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Graduate students in the accredited master of business administration program build advanced knowledge through a rigorous curriculum and expert faculty. Degree-seekers can use entrance scores to bolster their application. Online students work with advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff to complete their degree. The school's virtual classrooms let enrollees interact with faculty and peers.
The amount students pay per credit is unknown at this time. Master's students can use financial aid such as loans and scholarships to help cover tuition expenses. Degree candidates gain the knowledge and skills necessary to impress employers.
Missouri State University-Springfield Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 9,079
Online Master's Program Totals: 28
Graduate School Tuition Rate: $5,202 in-state; $10,476 out-of-state
Amount of Aid Awarded Per Learner: $5,648
Average Annual Cost: $16,134
Missouri State University-Springfield holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Discover the Best Accelerated MBA Programs
University of North Texas
- Denton, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Situated in Denton, University of North Texas offers undergraduate and graduate programs in virtual and in-person formats. The school delivers five online bachelor's programs and 11 online master's programs, which provide scheduling flexibility for busy learners.
The online master of business administration programs is one of the best online business management programs. Master's graduates can apply for positions in the field or advance their current career. To help students succeed academically and professionally, the school provides a variety of support services, including academic advising and career counseling.
Enrollees pursuing online graduate programs benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. Degree-seekers with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants, scholarships, and loans. Private scholarships and institutional fellowships can also help learners fund their master's studies.
University of North Texas Facts:
Price Per Credit: Not Known
Students Receiving Aid: 82%
Students Receiving Loans: 51%
Total Master's Programs: 85
Total Online Master's Programs: 85
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Discover the Best Accelerated MBA Programs
Cleveland State University
- Cleveland, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master's programs at Cleveland State University help professionals advance their careers and pursue new opportunities. Experts in the field teach graduate students in the accredited MBA program. Video lectures, assignments, and class discussions cover advanced topics in business management. Full-time students complete the program in about two years. Graduate learners may also choose a part-time enrollment option.
To fund their education, 89% of the institution's learners obtain financial aid and 55% take out loans. The admission rate is 94% for incoming students across all programs.
Cleveland State University Numbers:
Number of Online Students: 5,674
Distance Learning Master's Programs: 8
Graduate School Tuition: $10,014 in-state; $17,134 out-of-state
Average Total Aid Per Learner: $7,351
Average Price After Aid: $16,219
Cleveland State University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting agency.
Percent Online Enrollment
37%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Discover the Best Accelerated MBA Programs
Southern Utah University
- Cedar City, UT
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate degree-seekers can enroll in online and in-person programs at Southern Utah University. The public institution's offerings include an online master of business administration. Degree-seekers often maintain employment while enrolled in the flexible program.
Faculty advisors help master's students examine complex issues and develop a strong overall understanding of the field. Enrollees pursuing the master's degree complete a rigorous curriculum that fosters field-specific knowledge and transferable skills. While completing program coursework, master's students hone analytical and leadership skills they can apply to business management careers.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates and offers institutional funding for eligible applicants. Financial aid counselors help degree-seekers explore funding options.
Southern Utah University Numbers:
Online Master's Programs: 11
Total Online Programs: 12
Number of Online Students: 3,951
Price Per Credit: Not Known
Graduate Tuition In-State: $7,574
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $23,784
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
35%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#5 Discover the Best Accelerated MBA Programs
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida International University enrolls students in one online program. The Miami-based university educates 26,192 enrollees in its online courses. Distance learners can earn their professional MBA at the college. The accredited curriculum provides a rigorous education valued by employers. The program lets students develop advanced skills and training for business management careers. Learners receive one-on-one attention from faculty thanks to the school's student-to-faculty ratio of 27-to-1.
The university's website provides more information about support services and student organizations. The program charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. This makes the master's degree an affordable option for learners on a budget. The college reports a graduation rate of 63% for its programs.
Florida International University at a Glance:
Total Online Enrollment: 39,863
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 31
Graduate Tuition: $8,912 per year in-state, $21,393 per year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,958
Average Net Price: $9,888
The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Discover the Best Accelerated MBA Programs
Columbus State University
- Columbus, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners at Columbus State University can enroll in a variety of top-ranked academic programs, including an online master of business administration. With a variety of online offerings, the public institution enrolls 3,779 distance students. Online classes are ideal for learners with busy schedules.
Degree-seekers fulfill core requirements and take advanced business management courses. Students can customize the master's curriculum based on their interests and professional goals. Online learners develop industry-specific knowledge during flexible coursework. Learners currently employed in the business management field can pursue promotions or raises after earning their master's degree. Current and former students can leverage the institution's career services and alumni network.
The school delivers career advising and financial aid counseling to help graduate learners plan their academic and professional future. Online enrollees pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. Learners may also fund their studies through scholarships and fellowships. The amount students pay per credit on average is unknown.
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Discover the Best Accelerated MBA Programs
Oregon State University
- Corvallis, OR
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Corvallis-based Oregon State University educates degree-seekers online and on campus. Learners pursuing a graduate degree from the school can choose from online and in-person formats. Students interested in business can pursue an MBA in business analytics from the institution in a flexible online format.
The master's program requires in-depth coursework, and enrollees benefit from academic and career advising. Busy learners balancing work and school can benefit from the online program's scheduling flexibility. Graduate degree-seekers typically require 1-2 years to earn their master's degree if enrolled full time.
The institution holds accreditation, which means students can qualify for federal financial aid programs. Of the student population, 39% take out loans. Additionally, 85% of learners receive financial aid.
Oregon State University Numbers:
Total Programs: 265
Number of Online Programs: 50
Online Master's Programs: 78
Number of Online Students: 14,977
Average Cost Per Credit: N/A
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
47%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#8 Discover the Best Accelerated MBA Programs
University of Florida
- Gainesville, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Florida delivers online and in-person graduate programs from its Gainesville campus. Learners located anywhere in the country can enroll in the online MBA program from the public institution. Ideal for working professionals, the flexible program qualifies graduates for advanced business management positions.
Master's students work with faculty advisors, who provide advice and insights into the business management field. The program's rigorous curriculum helps enrollees develop foundational knowledge and specialized skills in the field. While completing program coursework, master's students hone analytical and leadership skills they can apply to business management careers.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates. Degree-seekers meet with financial aid counselors to discuss their funding options. Learners pursuing their master's degree online benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding.
University of Florida Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 126
Total Online Programs: 68
Number of Online Students: 24,310
Average Per-Credit Cost: Unavailable
Graduate Tuition In-State: $10,770
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $27,335
Awards Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Discover the Best Accelerated MBA Programs
The University of Texas at Tyler
- Tyler, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Distance learners can pursue high-quality online graduate programs from The University of Texas at Tyler. With 15 online programs, including nine online master's programs, the public Tyler-based institution educates students throughout the country. The school's academic offerings include a master of business administration for graduate degree-seekers interested in the field.
Students with personal or professional obligations often benefit from the online business management program's flexible scheduling options.
Learners gain specialized knowledge during advanced classes. Graduate students can complete internships to gain experience and bolster their resume. Degree-seekers typically complete the master's program in 1-2 years. Admissions advisors provide prospective applicants with details about application deadlines and requirements.
The school's affordable tuition rates make graduate studies more accessible. Graduate tuition rates at the institution average $5,850 for Texas residents and $14,328 for out-of-state students. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees with financial need to qualify for federal grants and loans. At the school, 85% of students receive financial aid to fund their education.
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Discover the Best Accelerated MBA Programs
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Edinburg, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners can enroll at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley to pursue respected master's degrees in many fields, including business management. While many of the institution's students pursue their degree on campus in Edinburg, 14,840 students attend online classes. The convenient, accessible format appeals to working professionals and busy adults seeking a graduate degree.
The master of business administration program features a rigorous curriculum and meets high academic standards. Graduate students consult with faculty mentors to select courses based on their professional goals. The online program prioritizes flexible scheduling and specialized industry skills development. Master's degree-holders often qualify for promotions or raises. Current and former students work closely with career services to transition from the program into the workforce.
To help learners explore their funding options and plan their future, the school delivers career advising and financial aid counseling. Students pursuing their master's degree online benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding. Additional financial aid options include private scholarships and fellowships. The institution's cost per credit is unknown.
Percent Online Enrollment
51%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
At Affordable Colleges Online, we use a proprietary ranking system and data from reputable sources like the U.S. Department of Education to help you find the best school for your needs. Our most important metric -- affordability -- accounts for 60% of our formula. We also consider academic quality, program offerings, online enrollment, and graduation rates.
This list has not been updated for 2024. To learn more, consult our school ranking methodology.
Why Consider an Accelerated Program for Your MBA?
- Optimize Your ROI: Accelerated MBA students spend less time in school, which may reduce the total cost of earning an advanced business degree. MBA's abbreviated timelines allow you to more quickly enter the workforce and begin seeing a return on your investment.
- Convenience and Practicality: Business schools typically design their accelerated MBA curricula to accommodate students with full-time jobs. Enrollees can move through coursework quickly through flexible learning structures that often include partially or fully online delivery models.
- Build Competitive Credentials: By pursuing an accelerated degree, you can earn a prestigious academic credential on a compact timeline. This can quickly position you to reap the benefits associated with an MBA degree, including access to management roles with significant advancement potential.
Is an Accelerated MBA Program Expensive?
MBA programs have a reputation for being expensive. In actuality, their costs vary widely according to the following factors:
- School prestige
- Career services and professional recruitment opportunities
- Institution type (public or private)
Some schools also offer online MBA programs purpose-built for affordability, including programs delivered in accelerated formats.
According to National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) data, MBA students paid an average of $17,058 in tuition and required fees in 2020. Some programs cost less, while others cost much more — at Ivy League schools like Harvard University, they could pay more than $76,000 in tuition alone.
Regardless of program cost, you can use multiple strategies to reduce your expenses. Scholarships for MBA students offer a valuable source of non-repayable funding, as do fellowships and grant programs. Many business schools maintain their own in-house financial aid and scholarship programs, which you should consider when researching your study options.
Price Check
Payscale data from July 2024 placed the average base salary of an MBA degree-holder at $98,000 per year. Salaries in this range position MBA graduates to generate an excellent educational ROI, even if they attend expensive schools.
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
How Much Can Accelerated MBA Graduates Make?
Salaries for graduates of accelerated online MBA programs depend on several factors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics(BLS), professionals in management occupations earn a $104,900 median annual salary as of May 2023. Top executives make a median annual salary of $103,840. Both of these salaries exceed the annual median wage for all workers.
Location can also affect pay — employers in larger cities tend to pay more than companies in small cities to make up for living costs. Degree-holders can gauge earning potential in specific regions by viewing current job postings.
Actual salaries and growth rates vary among the various career paths available to MBA graduates. The following table profiles five job titles commonly held by professionals with MBAs.
Jobs for Graduates of MBA Programs
| Job Title |
Industries |
Median Annual Salary (May 2023) |
Job Growth Rate (2022-2032) |
| Financial Managers |
- Finance and insurance
- Professional services
- Enterprise management
- GovernmentManufacturing
|
$156,100 |
+16% |
| Logistics Managers |
- Manufacturing
- Government
- Professional services
- Enterprise management
- Wholesale trade
|
$79,400 |
+18% |
| Management Analysts |
- Management consulting services
- Government
- Computer systems design
- Enterprise management
|
$99,410 |
+10% |
| Marketing Managers |
- Enterprise management
- Consulting
- Computer systems and software
- Advertising
|
$157,620 |
+6% |
| Operations Managers |
- Restaurants
- Management consulting services
- Enterprise management
- Computer systems design
- Merchant wholesalers
|
$101,280 |
+4.2% |
Source: BLS, Projections Central
Which Courses Are Offered in Accelerated MBA Programs?
An MBA program covers multiple subjects in business through a management lens. These courses explore topics useful to entrepreneurs at startups and graduates who want to become managers at Fortune 500 companies.
To cater to individuals with specific career goals, most accelerated online MBAs allow students to select a concentration like marketing, general management, or strategy. Before selecting a program, learners should read through the course descriptions to ensure the content aligns with their career goals.
Most MBA courses encourage collaboration, so group projects and class discussions are two common course characteristics. The following section highlights three common MBA courses. Remember that not every MBA program offers these classes, but this list provides a sample curriculum.
Strategic Management
Businesses constantly work to establish, improve, and maintain strategic advantages. Students engage with high-level and granular techniques for building integrated approaches to strategic enterprise management. Coursework examines the interrelated nature of operational divisions like accounting, finance, marketing, and operations management.
Marketing Management
Startup entrepreneurs and CEOs for large corporations both need to know marketing basics. The course offers a brief overview of marketing principles. Learners discover how to implement and oversee marketing campaigns, delegate efforts, and effectively use communication channels to reach target audiences. Graduates can motivate marketing professionals and perform essential marketing functions.
Human Resources
While not every MBA student decides to work in human resources, each learner should understand the profession. In this course, enrollees can fine-tune their basic human resources skills. They learn the payroll process, how to select a benefits package, and ways to attract talent. The course also discusses how to create an inclusive work environment that welcomes diversity.
Financial Reporting and Analysis
In addition to covering financial reporting standards for businesses, this course examines analytical techniques business managers use to extract actionable insights from financial documents. Students engage with techniques including ratio, common size, and taxation analysis. They also learn how to apply gained insights to guide organizational planning and decision-making.
Analytical Forecasting
In contemporary business environments, data analytics has emerged as a major focus of organizational management. Analytical forecasting courses explore strategies for analyzing data to uncover structured patterns and insights with beneficial organizational potential. Courses commonly emphasize predictive analytics through time-series forecasting models.
How Do You Choose the Best Accelerated Online MBA?
Consider the following factors as you compare accelerated MBA programs:
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Concentration Options: If you'd like to specialize in a particular area, you can pursue a concentrated MBA degree. Examples of common concentrations include accounting, analytics, finance, human resources, and logistics.
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Admission Requirements: Because they move quickly, accelerated MBA programs often prefer or require that candidates have relevant academic and/or professional backgrounds. For example, you may require a bachelor's degree in business and/or multiple years of work experience in a related role.
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Financial Aid Programs: MBA programs can be expensive, but there's more to consider than listed tuition costs. Many schools offer in-house scholarships and financial aid programs that can reduce your net cost of attendance, sometimes significantly.
Accreditation is also critically important. In addition to researching the accreditation status of the school that hosts the program, you can also look for optional endorsements from recognized accreditors of business programs.
Specialized business accreditors primarily include the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, and the International Accreditation Council for Business Education.
More Questions About Accelerated MBA Programs
Can you complete an online MBA in one year?
Yes. An enrollee can complete an MBA in just one year. Many schools offer accelerated programs with self-paced formats, helping learners to enter the workforce quickly.
Will an accelerated MBA degree increase my salary?
Typically, MBA graduates experience an increase in salary. According to July 2024 Payscale data, graduates with bachelor's degrees in business administration earn an average $78,000 annual salary. MBAs earn an average annual salary of $98,000.
How hard is an accelerated MBA program?
Because of their structure, students may find accelerated MBA programs more challenging than their regularly paced counterparts. Accelerated programs move through material quickly, and you will need to master challenging concepts efficiently to keep pace. Remember that you have other options, such as part-time enrollment in a traditional MBA.
What are the admissions requirements for accelerated programs?
Exact requirements vary, but accelerated MBA programs often prefer applicants with backgrounds that support their success in advanced, fast-paced learning environments. You may require an undergraduate business degree, multiple years of relevant job experience, or both. Additional requirements, such as GMAT or GRE scores and letters of recommendation, may also apply.
Am I too old to get an online MBA?
Nobody is too old to learn, and online MBA programs are often designed to appeal specifically to professionals and students returning to college. Many people in their 40s and 50s pursue MBAs to remain relevant in the job market, engage with new concepts, and build proficiency with emerging analytical tools.
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