Part-Time Online MBA Programs 2021

An MBA degree prepares graduates for top managerial opportunities in diverse industries including healthcare, finance, information technology, and manufacturing. Most programs include leadership classes in addition to content and research coursework.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a median annual salary of $72,250 for business and finance occupations, much higher than the median salary for all occupations ($41,950). Executive positions, for which many MBA degree-holders qualify, boasts even higher median salaries ($185,950). Whether students pursue an on-campus or online MBA program, they can enjoy the same benefits upon graduation since schools typically offer only one curriculum for both delivery options.

Top 10 Part-Time Online MBA Programs

How Much Does an MBA Cost?

Some schools allow out-of-state, online enrollees to pay in-state tuition. Since the difference between resident and nonresident tuition can be substantial, online learners should find out whether a prospective college or university offers this opportunity.

Institutions generally maintain a different tuition structure for part-time MBA students. While the initial outlay may be lower (part-time students pay for fewer credits per enrollment period), part-time students may pay higher fees and other costs since degree completion typically takes longer.

Calculating the Cost of a College Degree

The calculator tool below can help students compare the actual attendance cost between colleges and universities. A school’s website will often contain much of the required information. Online enrollees should keep in mind that institutions may charge additional technology fees for off-campus students that can substantially impact the attendance cost.

How Much Do MBA Majors Make?

Business and finance professionals working at the District of Columbia earn the highest median salary ($103,290), followed by New York ($98,960), New Jersey ($92,330), Massachusetts ($91,480), and Virginia ($88,480).

MBA degree-holders who work as chief executives earn even higher salaries, especially professionals working in the computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing industry ($274,380). South Dakota pays chief executives the highest salary ($259,430), followed by New Jersey ($258,450), the District of Columbia ($253,820), Connecticut ($247,310), and Washington state ($243,150).

Courses in MBA Programs

MBA coursework varies between colleges and universities. Most schools, however, offer similar foundation courses in financial management, human resources, and marketing research.

In addition, many on-campus and online MBA programs offer specialization areas for enrollees. Popular MBA concentrations include finance, marketing, information technology, and global business. Schools offering MBA concentrations deliver courses supporting these fields, although not all classes include an online format.

The three courses described below represent subjects commonly included in general MBA programs.

• Financial Management
• Global Strategic Management
• Operations Management

Financial Management

The course familiarizes enrollees with various financial tools and concepts commonly used in decision-making processes such as risks and returns, optimal capital structure, valuation of securities, and corporate liabilities. The course teaches students how to budget company resources and determine the ratios that measure efficiency, liquidity, and profitability.

Global Strategic Management

The course demonstrates the complexities of business engagement in a competitive global environment. Students explore key strategic management principles and learn how to implement and adapt them to various international business settings and different industries. The course teaches enrollees how to make strategic decisions that allow businesses to address existing challenges while continuing to achieve long-term objectives.

Operations Management

Topics covered include inventory control and planning, forecasting, strategic materials sourcing, and transportation and warehousing. Students learn how to implement different operational tools and techniques to boost productivity, improve competitiveness, and increase profitability. The course includes a review of cutting edge software and hardware technologies to enhance overall efficiency.

Certifications and Licensure for MBA Students

Industry-recognized certifications (such as the three described below) help present degree-holders as fluent in the field’s specialized knowledge and skills. For MBA degree-holders, a certification in a specific field can qualify them for top leadership positions with greater responsibilities and higher salaries. A reputable credential sets learners apart from other candidates, especially in highly populated and competitive fields.

Scholarships for MBA Students

At the master’s level, students can usually apply for fellowship programs that often come with research or teaching responsibilities. Some fellowship or scholarship programs also include a stipend or living allowance. MBA students can explore funding from their employers, government agencies, professional organizations, and private nonprofit groups with ties to the business field.

Part-Time Online MBA Programs 2021