20 Fastest Accelerated Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024

A Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) can be a worthy investment for business professionals! Looking into the fastest online MBA programs is a step in the right direction, but be sure to keep your eyes wide open to its rewards and risks.

What’s the best time to pursue an accelerated MBA degree? There’s no right or wrong time for everybody with business professionals pursuing MBA programs online when it suits them.

In your case, you may want to look into the accelerated MBA programs online when you’re ready in terms of your current career status and goals. The beauty of online programs lies in their non-discrimination policy such that business professionals can earn their accelerated MBA degrees in their late 20s or early 60s! For as long as you have a bachelor’s degree and meet other admission requirements, you will be considered.

Business schools with online MBA programs report that the average age when students pursue an MBA degree is 27 years. Most students then have 3-5 years of work experience before becoming graduate students.

Why pursue the fastest online MBA degree in the first place? If you’re in the business administration field, accelerated online MBA programs will boost your career advancement opportunities. This means opportunities for business leadership positions with better compensation packages. Or even the opportunity to teach business administration courses featuring business strategy and strategic planning in higher education institutions.

Many also pursue an accelerated MBA to gain the advanced skill sets to start their own entrepreneurial ventures.

And the salaries are excellent, too, for those who can leverage their accelerated MBA degrees! According to the National Association of Colleges Employers’ Predictions, the average starting salary for MBA graduates is $87,966 per year while the U.S. News & World Report says that it’s $101,034 including bonus.

Indeed, now is the best time to look into the accelerated online MBA programs offered by business schools, either in your home state or in an out-of-state university!

Online MBA Experience

Business schools offering the fastest online MBA programs have different programs of study, learning platforms, and graduate experiences for their students. When considering their online programs, you should match your personal and professional status with their unique characteristics.

Admissions Experience

Business schools with accelerated online MBA programs may have different admissions criteria but there are some common aspects including:

• A bachelor’s degree in business administration or other related discipline with a competitive minimum GPA
• Satisfactory GRE or GMAT scores
• 3-5 years of professional work experience in business administration or other related fields
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statements

Due to the rigorous demands, accelerated MBA programs typically require applicants to demonstrate their readiness for the challenges ahead. The personal statements and interviews are among the most important evaluation tools used.

Time-to-completion

Accelerated MBA programs typically have a 12-month time-to-completion but many business schools have longer completion times, such as 15-18 months. The fastest online MBA programs can be as short as 10 months!

Number of Credits

The online courses in the fastest online MBA programs tend to be 3-credit courses. Both traditional and accelerated online MBA programs typically require completion of 30-46 semester credits but the coursework is in condensed form.

Concentration Options

Dedicated business schools offering accelerated MBA programs offer concentrations within the field of business administration, too. The online courses that distance learners take will depend on their chosen specialization within their respective online MBA programs.

Distance learners in accelerated MBA online programs who want comprehensive skill sets should consider a general MBA degree with its more generalized focus on business management. Choosing a concentration means gaining more specialized skill sets in specific areas like:

• International business management or global business administration
• Human resource management
• Strategic management or strategic leadership
• Supply chain management
• Business analytics
• Healthcare management
• Project management

Many of these accelerated MBA online programs prepare online students for professional certification exams, such as the one administered by the Project Management Institute.

Common Topics in Coursework

Online MBA students tackle core courses in business administration and electives, too. The common online courses in online MBA programs include:

• Finance courses like managerial finance, corporate finance, and financial management
• Marketing courses like marketing management and digital marketing
• Accounting courses like financial accounting and managerial accounting
• Human resource management courses like organizational behavior

Many of the fastest online MBA programs also emphasize specific areas in supply management and strategic management.

Online Learning Experience

Unlike traditional MBA programs with an accelerated format, the fastest online MBA programs use a learning management system (LMS) as a learning platform. While accelerated online MBA programs use different LMS brands, every LMS is designed for the optimization of the learning experience with features like:

• Synchronous and asynchronous class sessions including lectures, presentations, group work, and case discussions
• Self-guided study
• Peer-to-peer and student-to-professor interactions
• Proctored and non-proctored examinations
• Capstone projects

Many accelerated online MBA programs also require completion of in-person or virtual internships. At the end of their programs, MBA graduates are expected to be better business administration professionals with the combination of didactic coursework and hands-on learning.

Tuition and Fees

The top business schools charge upwards of $70,000 per year of tuition and other fees. Accelerated online MBA programs can also have cost of attendance in the vicinity, but it will depend on whether the higher education institution is a public or private university While scholarships and grants aren’t as plentiful for MBA programs as it is for doctoral programs, there are many opportunities, nonetheless.

Pros and Cons of Accelerated MBA Programs

Getting reliable information about the pros and cons of accelerated online MBA programs is a must lest you find yourself sinking dollars into a sinkhole, so to speak.

Pros in Your Favor

• Save time and grab career advancement opportunities sooner
• Save money by spending less time pursuing your MBA degree
• Easier and smoother transition into leadership positions
• Get the same outcomes as students in traditional MBA programs

Cons to Consider

• May be unable to work and study at the same time
• Can be too rigorous, both physically and mentally, due to the accelerated online format
• Less opportunities and time for professional networking

Let’s assume that you’re 100% ready for the challenges of accelerated online MBA programs. You must be careful in choosing an accelerated MBA program since it will push your limits—and pockets—more than you can imagine now!

Here’s what students must look for in the best online MBA programs with an accelerated format.

• Regional accreditation for the university and programmatic accreditation for the online MBA program. (There are three accreditation agencies—ACBSP (Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs), AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business), and IACBE (International Accreditation Council for Business Education)
• Affordability of tuition and other fees; consider the financial aid programs available
• Reputation of the online MBA program including its selectivity, curriculum, and graduate outcomes

Most importantly, you must consider whether its unique characteristics are aligned with your personal and professional goals in pursuing an accelerated online MBA degree.

If you’re looking for an online master’s degree program that can be completed in three years or less, don’t miss our comprehensive guide to fast online program rankings.

Fastest Online MBA Programs

Below are some of the fastest online MBA programs available to students.

Northcentral University

Part of the National University System of California, Northcentral University takes pride in creating innovative solutions to meet the diverse needs of its students and to provide them with exceptional learning experiences. No wonder then that its MBA program is on top of our list!

NCU’s accelerated online MBA program offers 12 specializations including healthcare administration, global business management, and project management. Students must devote 30-35 hours weekly to keep up with the rigorous coursework and, thus, graduate within the expected timeframe.

• Required Credits: 30
• Completion Time: 12-16 months
• Format: Online

Regent University

Regent University has eight academic schools that offer undergraduate and graduate programs for both on-campus and distance learners. Students not only develop their knowledge and skills in their field of study but also develop the Christ-centric character vital in changing their communities.

Students in its ACBSP-accredited online MBA program tackle MBA-centric and core courses for a well-rounded education with an emphasis on business operations management.

There are 13 concentrations available including business analytics, cybersecurity management, and human resource management. Students can customize their accelerated MBA degree, too, via an individualized plan and a portfolio.

• Required Credits: 36 (generalist); 42 (concentration)
• Completion Time: 16 months (full-time)
• Format: Online

Benedictine University

Benedictine University is a consistent presence in lists of the US’ best colleges due to its record of academic excellence, as well as for its student and graduate outcomes. Note that the university has close ties with the Benedictine Order that established it in 1887.

Among its well-respected online programs is its accelerated MBA program where students take two classes every session. Students tackle business foundation courses, choose from two optional concentrations (Digital Marketing and Project Management), and learn the latest in managerial technologies and techniques. Full-time advisors are assigned to students in the online MBA program.

• Required Credits: 30
• Completion Time: 12 months depending on educational background and work experience
• Format: Online

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

SMUMN, a university associated with the De La Salle Brothers, is a preferred school among future leaders because of its commitment to personalized programs of study for its students. Both faculty members and academic services staff are available for students to get the best that SMUMN has to offer.

And among its best programs is its accelerated MBA program where students gain the leadership skills to become business leaders in diverse industries. Students in the online MBA program can also add a graduate certificate with their MBA degree, thus, boosting their competitiveness in the job market. Students complete a capstone project course, too.

• Required Credits: 30-36
• Completion Time: 12 months
• Format: Online

Mount Vernon Nazarene University

Mount Vernon Nazarene University is among the best colleges in Ohio and the Great Lakes Region with its online programs including its online MBA program recognized for its excellence. Its graduate degree programs in general special education, healthcare management, and religious studies are highly recommended, too.

Its Fast-track MBA program is modeled after its traditional MBA program with the same number of credits and concentration options. Students learn market-ready skills while meeting their professional obligations and networking with their peers.

• Required Credits: 36
• Completion Time: 11-15 months
• Format: Online

University of Houston - Victoria

Part of the University of Houston System, UHV is a standalone university with its own accreditation, academic programs, and administration. With its main 20-acre campus, it’s among the best campuses in Texas with its wide open spaces punctuated by striking buildings.

The AACSB-accredited online MBA program enables students to learn international business-ready skills sets. Students earn the Global MBA with a Management concentration upon completion of its curriculum. Applicants can choose from five start dates. Students are also encouraged to apply their didactic lessons to their workplaces immediately.

• Required Credits: 30
• Completion Time: 12 months
• Format: Online

University of New Mexico

The University of New Mexico and its Lobos are among the winningest teams in cross-country running and skiing, and its human mascots Lobo Louie and Lobo Lucy are among the most loved on the field. As the state’s flagship university, it’s also popular among high-achieving students for its rich research opportunities and record of academic excellence.

The Anderson School of Management offers an online MBA program that emphasizes a team-based, outcome-focused, and reality-based philosophy toward business leadership. Students thrive under the guidance of credentialed faculty, an innovative curriculum, and hands-on learning experiences complemented by professional development opportunities.

• Required Credits: 43
• Completion Time: 16 months
• Format: Online

Boise State University

Boise State puts its philosophy of innovation into practice through research projects with positive impact on individual lives and communities, as well as interdisciplinary programs and innovation-centric centers. No wonder then that its Executive MBA programs are among the best in the US, even beating the likes of Cornell and Columbia MBA programs!

Students in its online MBA program flourish in their careers due in part to its comprehensive business curriculum that sharpens their business leadership skills. There are six start dates and 7-week courses that allow a good balance between graduate studies and professional obligations.

• Required Credits: 49
• Completion Time: 12 months
• Format: Online

Florida Gulf Coast University

FGCU, a State University System of Florida member, may only be a 30-year institution but it’s among the most recognized universities in the South! Known for its innovative approach, social mobility opportunities, and research projects, its undergraduate and graduate programs attract the best and brightest in the country.

Its AACSB-accredited Lutgert College of Business offers an online accelerated MBA program where students are provided with exceptional support services. Students choose from two concentrations—Data Analytics and Management-Leadership—enjoy the benefits of world-class business education.

• Required Credits: 33
• Completion Time: 12 months
• Format: Online

Spring Hill College

Spring Hill College isn’t just among the oldest Catholic universities in the United States but it continues to use its learning experiences in higher education to its advantage! With its expert faculty members committed to student success, undergraduate and graduate students leave SHC equipped with competitive skill sets.

The accelerated online MBA program doesn’t have GRE/GMAT and application fee requirements. But once you’re in, you will find the comprehensive and fast-paced curriculum to be challenging, to say the least. Students choose from four concentrations—Project Management, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Business Analytics, and Leadership—and apply their lessons in the workplace ASAP.

• Required Credits: 30
• Completion Time: 10 months
• Format: Online

Bentley University

Bentley University is a business-focused university with undergraduate and graduate degree programs. There’s a strong emphasis on the use of technology in business leadership, and it’s part of the reason for the regional and national recognition for its MS+MBA program.

Its accelerated online MBA program features 12-15 asynchronous foundation, elective and core courses in six-week intervals with a hybrid option. Online students prepare for rewarding careers as successful business professionals in multinational corporations across diverse industries, from engineering to healthcare management.

• Required Credits:
• Completion Time: 18 months
• Format: Online
 

Fitchburg State University

The small class sizes, open and innovative campus culture, and postcard-perfect campus are what makes Fitchburg State among the best colleges in the North. Add its best value education and rich opportunities for social mobility and you have a university that attracts many of the best and brightest, too.

Its IACBE-accredited online accelerated MBA program allows students to choose from several concentration options—Accounting, Business Analytics Management, Healthcare Management, Finance, Human Resource Management, Supply Chain Management, Marketing, and Management. Each concentration emphasizes real-world knowledge and skills acquisition that prepare students for diverse business leadership roles.

• Required Credits: 30
• Completion Time: 12 months
• Format: Online

Manhattan College

As a De La Salle liberal arts university, Manhattan College offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs in business, education, engineering, and arts and sciences. Indeed, such complexity in a small university is uncommon and it’s part of the reason for Manhattan’s enduring popularity. Plus, students praise its rich service opportunities as a way of giving back.

Its AACSB-accredited accelerated online MBA program is also imbued with the La Sallian values of quality education, inclusive community, and social justice. Students tackle 12 courses including four concentration courses in their chosen specialization in the MBA program—Business Analytics, Finance and Economics, or Organizations, Markets and Sustainability.

• Required Credits: 36
• Completion Time: 18 months
• Format: Online

University of Saint Mary

Just a year shy of a century, the prestigious University of Saint Mary continues to make its mark in society with its emphasis on a contemporary liberal arts education. Students prepare for productive lives marked by service to society in their personal and professional lives. Such commitment has earned the university numerous accolades including numerous annual Best Midwestern College awards.

Its IACBE-accredited accelerated MBA program is no exception to the Saint Mary rule of academic rigor!

Students learn advanced skills in business management, leadership and ethics, as well as choose from several concentrations (e.g., Finance, General Management, Healthcare Management, and Human Resource Management). There are no GMAT/GRE requirements and students can choose from several start dates and keep pace with 8-week courses in the MBA program.

• Required Credits: 33
• Completion Time: 12 months
• Format: Online

University of Louisiana at Lafayette

The Ragin’ Cajuns agree that the University of Louisiana at Lafayette is among the best universities with its firsts in the fields of computer science, francophone studies, and informatics, among other notable achievements. But it doesn’t rest on its laurels with its robust research programs!

Students in the B.I. Moody III College of Business Administration’s AACSB-accredited accelerated MBA program knows the emphasis on real-world applications for their skill sets. The 8-week courses are rigorous but manageable, thanks to the exceptional student support services like online tutoring, academic guidance, and career services.

There are several concentration options in the MBA program, too, such as General Business Administration, Hospitality Management, and Sales Leadership

• Required Credits: 33-39 depending on concentration
• Completion Time: 15 months
• Format: Online

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

A Southern Illinois University system member, SIUE offers the best bang for the buck, education-wise, in the Midwest that encourages socioeconomic mobility among its students. The university is also a haven for its students with its wide range of extracurricular activities, from athletics to fraternities and sororities.

Its AACSB-accredited accelerated MBA program also offers excellent value for the money with its emphasis on real-world applications, interdisciplinary business education, and managerial effectiveness. Students in the MBA program can also customize their degree based on their professional interests, and the curriculum combines didactic coursework with a capstone course.

• Required Credits: 36
• Completion Time: 12 months
• Format: Online

University of North Texas

UNT is a hugely popular university and its consecutive record-breaking fall enrollment and graduation rate is proof of it! Both students and alumni are committed to make positive contributions to their Texan communities and beyond. With a 23:1 student-faculty ratio, learning is productive in the diverse areas of study, from business administration to visual and performing arts.

The accelerated online MBA program consists of 12 courses delivered in an asynchronous format and in 8-week sessions. Students choose from several concentrations, too, such as health services management, supply chain management, and strategic management. Students in the MBA program develop marketable skills in quantitative and qualitative analysis, among others.

• Required Credits: 36
• Completion Time: 14 months
• Format: Online

Northern Kentucky University

NKU is among the world’s most innovative universities and it shows in its numerous accolades, such as being a transit-friendly destination, a Tree Campus USA awardee, and the Green Star Award. It also has several third-party partnerships, such as the Education Partner for Career Choice Program with Amazon.

Students in its AACSB-accredited accelerated MBA program are allowed to be innovative in their program of study, too. There’s a choice between a General MBA and a customizable MBA degree, as well as several dual-study options (e.g., Human Resource Management and Legal Studies).

• Required Credits: 33
• Completion Time: 12 months
• Format: Online

University of Missouri St. Louis

UMSL may be the newest campus in the University of Missouri System but it has established a well-deserved reputation for its exceptional academic programs and extracurricular opportunities. While it’s a commuter school, it also offers several online undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

Among these online programs is the accelerated AACSB-accredited MBA program intended for current business professionals who want to jump-start their careers. The cohort model has small class sizes that enable students to learn from their peers’ work experiences while also learning from their leadership development coaches.

• Required Credits: 33
• Completion Time: 16 months
• Format: Online

Tennessee State University

Tennessee State is notable for being the only state-funded HBCU in Tennessee, aside from the distinction of being a Thurgood Marshall College Fund member-school. Its 500-acre campus isn’t just the largest college campus in Nashville but it’s also among the most accessible and beautiful! Online students are welcome to visit!

The accelerated MBA online program is designed for adult learners who want to meet their professional obligations while pursuing an MBA degree. In this program that is approved by reputable colleges and schools commission agencies, students tackle subjects in managerial economics, finance, and accounting, among other graduate-level courses, as a cohort.

• Required Credits: 36
• Completion Time: 12 months
• Format: Online

Tips to Help You Succeed

Accelerated online MBA degree programs provide an excellent opportunity to rapidly advance your education and profession. Yet, it is crucial to make sure you pick the best program that suits your needs and goals. The following tips can help you choose and complete an accelerated online MBA program:

Do Your Research

Doing your homework on both the program and the institution offering it is critical before registering for an accelerated online MBA program. To find trustworthy institutions, look for accreditation from bodies like the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

Search for success stories from former alumni and read rankings and reviews of the program and institution. You can use this information to determine whether the program is a good fit for you.

Set Realistic Expectations

Accelerated online MBA programs are intended to be finished faster than conventional programs. This implies that the burden might be heavier, and you might have to put more time and effort into the program. This makes it important to set realistic goals and expectations.

Having realistic expectations about what you can do in the allotted time is crucial. When selecting an accelerated program, consider your current career and personal responsibilities since they could take up more time than a standard program.

Develop Time Management Skills

Time management is very important in an accelerated online MBA program. You must balance your obligations to your family, job, and school. To make the most of your time, create and follow a calendar, rank your chores according to importance, and employ time-management tools and strategies.

This could entail dividing bigger projects into smaller tasks, utilizing a planner or calendar to keep track of deadlines and assignments, and avoiding distractions while studying.

Take Advantage of Resources

Accelerated online MBA schools usually provide resources to support your success, such as online tutors, networking opportunities, and career services.

Use these resources to improve your educational experience and prepare for future employment. For instance, career services can assist you with your CV and job search, and networking events can put you in touch with experts in your industry.

Stay Engaged

Online courses make it easy to feel removed from the classroom and other students. Participate in online forums, attend virtual events and lectures, and work with your peers to stay engaged. This will help you to stay motivated and enable you to network with other experts in your area. Staying engaged can enhance your learning outcomes and knowledge retention.

Balance Work and Personal Life

While pursuing an accelerated online MBA degree, juggling your job and personal obligations can be difficult. It is crucial to prioritize your obligations, schedule self-care time, and let loved ones and your employer know what commitments you have.

This may entail setting aside time for hobbies or exercise, assigning duties at work or home, and establishing time limits. Maintaining your well-being can aid in your ability to concentrate and work well on your program.

Stay Flexible

Unexpected problems, such as technical issues or personal emergencies, can occur in an online program. It is crucial to remain adaptable and flexible and inform your lecturers and advisors of potential problems.

This can entail asking for extra time to complete tasks, asking for more assistance or support, or changing your schedule to make room for unforeseen circumstances. By remaining adaptable, you can stay on track and complete the program effectively, despite unforeseen obstacles.

Related Questions

How long does it typically take to complete an accelerated online MBA program?

Accelerated online MBA programs are intended to be finished faster than conventional programs. Compared to typical MBA programs, which can take two to three years to complete, most programs can be finished in roughly 12 to 18 months.

The shorter timeframe is achieved by condensing the curriculum and coursework. This will, in turn, demand more serious study and effort from students.

Will an accelerated online MBA program provide the same quality of education as a traditional program?

Absolutely, most authorized accelerated online MBA programs aim to offer the same level of education as conventional ones. To make sure the program and school have reliable accreditation and rave testimonials from previous students, it is crucial to do your research.

Accreditations from agencies like the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) are a solid indication of the quality of the program.

Can I work while completing an accelerated online MBA program?

Certainly, many students can work while doing an online accelerated MBA program. It is also crucial to remember that these programs may be more demanding than conventional ones. Students must have great time management abilities and a strong work ethic to balance their commitments to work and school properly.

It is also beneficial to let employers know about the time commitment needed for the program and to use any tools it offers, such as career services or flexible scheduling possibilities.