Best Online MBA Programs in Delaware

Badge for BEST ONLINE MBA IN DELAWARE
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Academic Influence Staff
Published:
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • There are 3 colleges in Delaware that offer MBA programs that can be completed online, on campus, or a hybrid mixture of the two.
  • There are a number of fully online MBA programs for busy professionals that can open career opportunities with the top employers in Delaware.
  • An online MBA from one of the best colleges in Delaware can lead to a career in one of the state’s top industries like Finance and Insurance or Manufacturing.

Delaware's Best Online MBA Programs

Sort by:
  1. University of Delaware
  2. Wilmington University
  3. Delaware State University
  1. University of Delaware
  2. Delaware State University
  3. Wilmington University
  1. University of Delaware 74%
  2. Delaware State University 55%
  1. Delaware State University 16 to 1
  2. University of Delaware 15 to 1
  3. Wilmington University 12 to 1
  1. University of Delaware $13,370
  2. Wilmington University $12,030
  3. Delaware State University $7,038
  1. University of Delaware $17,622
  2. Wilmington University $9,216
  3. Delaware State University $5,160
  1. Delaware State University
  2. Wilmington University
  3. University of Delaware
  1. Wilmington University
  2. Delaware State University
  3. University of Delaware
  1. Delaware State University 55%
  2. University of Delaware 74%
  1. Wilmington University 12 to 1
  2. University of Delaware 15 to 1
  3. Delaware State University 16 to 1
  1. Delaware State University $7,038
  2. Wilmington University $12,030
  3. University of Delaware $13,370
  1. Delaware State University $5,160
  2. Wilmington University $9,216
  3. University of Delaware $17,622

Though it is the second smallest state in the nation, Delaware was the first state to ratify the Constitution, earning it the nickname, The First State. With the Delaware River running through it, the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and forests throughout, Delaware college students will find beauty everywhere.

Just above the nation’s average annual college tuition cost of $12,274, Delaware provides prospective students with an array of highly respected traditional and online degree programs.

Those seeking a flexible online MBA program might find one of Delaware’s three online MBAs fitting.

Featured Programs

Colleges and Universities in Delaware

Delaware is home to three higher learning institutions offering master’s degree programs for online students. Despite the state’s small size, the online options in Delaware are excellent.

In-state students will pay roughly $8,000 for a year at Delaware State University and about $15,000 for tuition at the University of Delaware. Out-of-state students will pay more.

The student body size of these schools is, however, vastly different. Just a little over 4,000 students attend Delaware State University. By contrast, more than 22,000 on-campus and online students are currently taking courses at the University of Delaware.

Among private colleges in Delaware, Wilmington University has the highest student population among private colleges at just under 10,000 students. Wilmington University is also the most affordable private college in Delaware at $12,000.

Residents who earn master’s degrees in the medical or certain healthcare fields have the opportunity to get state-sponsored financial aid through Delaware’s State Loan Repayment Program (SLRP). Applicants must agree to work in underserved areas of Delaware for two or three years and can receive up to $105,000.


What are Delaware’s Colleges & Universities?

Delaware’s Best Overall

What’s the Difference between an Online MBA and Traditional MBA?

Learn more about what you can do with an MBA.

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Best Online MBA Programs in Delaware

  1. #1

    University of Delaware

    Newark , DE
    #1 Best Colleges in Delaware 2024 #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #1 Best Public Colleges in Delaware 2024 #1 Best Research Universities in Delaware 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    80%

    Student body

    26K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1275/28

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Delaware

    Cost of Degree: $18,664
    Expenses: $17,034
    Starting Salary: $100,351
    Salary after 4 years: $123,617
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The Delaware Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics is one of the best business schools in the state, with accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The college’s online Master of Business Administration (MBA) program provides students with a flexible and industry-driven curriculum designed to prepare them for today’s competitive global market.

    It serves working professionals looking to grow in their careers and offers six MBA concentrations in an entirely online approach. Career coaching and individualized advice are included in the curriculum.

    Before pursuing concentrations, online MBA students must first complete a series of foundational and core courses, which include:

    • International Financial Management
    • Operations Management
    • Financial Management
    • Project Management
    • Corporate Strategy
    • Management Science

    This online MBA degree program produces professionals with excellent management skills and analytical business decision-making abilities.

    The University of Delaware is great for students who:

    Are looking for an accelerated online MBA. This degree program can be completed in as little as 16 months.

    The University of Delaware might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are not able to manage the increased demand of an accelerated program. Each course is only seven weeks in length.

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Business Analytics
    • Finance
    • Strategic Leadership
    • International Business
    • Healthcare Management
    • Required Credits: 44-53
    • Completion time: 16 months
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  2. #2

    Wilmington University

    New Castle , DE
    #1 Best Private Colleges in Delaware 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Delaware 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in Delaware 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in Delaware 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Graduation

    20%

    Student body

    19K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Wilmington University

    Cost of Degree: $9,276
    Starting Salary: $63,584
    Salary after 4 years: $77,870

    Wilmington University’s College of Business offers one of the most comprehensive Delaware online MBA programs. Wilimgnton’s online Master of Business Administration degree has received the approval of the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE). The program’s curriculum emphasizes maximizing real-world knowledge by connecting academic knowledge with practical experiences to prepare you for an advanced business career.

    One of the most unique features of this online program is that it allows students to pursue a related Dual-Credit Certificate without adding to their tuition costs. This opportunity allows students to incorporate doctoral-level coursework into their master’s degree program.

    Courses in this online MBA program include Business Strategy, International Finance, Portfolio Management, and Supply Chain Management.

    Wilmington University is great for students who:

    Are looking for an affordable online MBA program at a top-ranked private university.

    Wilmington University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Do not have the undergraduate requirements of economics, accounting, and finance for degree candidacy.

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Accounting
    • Business Analytics
    • Business Communication
    • Business Technology Management
    • Finance
    • Healthcare Administration
    • Homeland Security
    • Human Resource Management
    • Management Information Systems
    • Marketing Management
    • Nonprofit Management
    • Organizational Leadership
    • Sustainability
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  3. #3

    Delaware State University

    Dover , DE
    #14 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #1 Best Small Colleges in Delaware 2024 #2 Best Colleges in Delaware 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in Delaware 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    55%

    Graduation

    45%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    945/22

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Delaware State University

    Cost of Degree: $5,510
    Expenses: $20,548
    Starting Salary: $60,211
    Salary after 4 years: $74,170
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The Delaware State University College of Business offers one of the best MBA programs with AACSB accreditation. Online MBA students can expect to find student services dedicated to helping them have a meaningful online learning experience, including academic advising, technical support, and financial aid opportunities.

    The DSU online Master of Business Administration has a curriculum focused on providing students with industry-specific knowledge. This online program is primarily intended for managers who aspire to become dominant business leaders. It incorporates modern business principles for organizational management.

    Core courses of the programs explore topics such as Applied Strategic Management, Organizational Leadership and Behavior, Operations Analysis Management, and Information and Technology.

    Delaware State University is great for students who:

    Are looking for an affordable online MBA program.

    Delaware State University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Do not have the undergraduate requirements of economics, accounting, and finance for degree candidacy.

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 1 year
    • Format: Online
    Compare school

Career Outlook for Students with MBA Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Business Administration And Management

Degree Level: Master's

  • Location: Delaware (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Cost of Degree*: $17,701
  • Avg. Expenses*: $18,791
  • Avg. Starting Salary*: $77,122
  • Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $97,913
  • Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 5 years
  • Job Growth: 4.86%
  • Number of Jobs: 11,888,900
  • * denotes ‘annually’
  • ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

CareerJob GrowthAvg. Salary
Purchasing Managers4.39%No data
Chief Executives-8.21%No data
Computer and Information Systems Managers15.41%$206,550
Managers, All Other3.35%$154,870
Human Resources Managers5.22%$144,570

Average Career Salaries

Bottom 10%MedianTop 10%
$65,963$106,159$156,343

Promising Job Markets

StateCost of LivingAvg. Salary
#6 Delaware2% higher than average$106,159
#2 New York5% higher than average$116,372
#3 Virginia5% higher than average$104,589
#4 Michigan15% higher than average$90,047
#5 Georgia13% higher than average$90,306
#6 Illinois7% higher than average$96,596

Top Industries

IndustryAvg. Salary
Computer and Information Systems Managers$206,550
Managers, All Other$154,870
Human Resources Managers$144,570
Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

Is Delaware a good place to pursue an online MBA?

Delaware can be an excellent place to pursue an online MBA, depending on your specific goals and circumstances. The state is known for its low expenses and excellent return on investment, providing businesses with an appealing economic climate.

With the second-lowest tax regulations for start-up businesses and the third-lowest for established ones, it is ranked as America’s third-best business environment. It is a great place for East Coast operations.

Moreover, Delaware’s favorable tax structure—which excludes sales tax, personal property tax, and inventory tax—further improves the state’s commercial tax environment.

The state attracts company investment due to its favorable corporate income tax rate of 8.7% and advantages such as single sales factor apportionment. The influx of well-known corporations, such as AT&T, Bank of America, Coca-Cola, and Walmart, has cemented Delaware’s status as a key commercial hub.

For online MBA students, this corporate landscape can open doors to potential opportunities for experiential learning, internships, and post-graduation employment prospects, making it a compelling location to pursue your online MBA and connect your academic journey with the business world.

While Delaware’s average annual mean wage for MBA graduates, which is $118,933, falls short of the national average, some might still find the state to be one of the best places for a career. You can raise your earning potential by focusing on jobs in the state’s major industries.

In addition to providing a platform for higher pay, these industries also offer a steady job market, opportunities for long-term growth, and the ability to support the state’s economy.

Delaware’s top industries include Finance and Insurance, Real Estate and Rental and Leasing, and Manufacturing. These industries are known for their strong employment opportunities and competitive salaries.

Top Hiring Companies in Delaware

Delaware online MBA graduates can focus their job search on organizations that fit their particular experience and area of interest. Using a targeted approach not only improves the chances of landing a better job but also guarantees that the industry you work in supports your beliefs and professional aspirations.

Delaware’s top employers include:

AstraZeneca

MBA graduates are regularly hired by AstraZeneca, a multinational biopharmaceutical corporation, for positions in operations, strategic planning, and pharmaceutical management. For individuals who are enthusiastic about drugs and healthcare, their dedication to cutting-edge healthcare solutions makes it a desirable choice.

Christiana Care Health System

ChristianaCare, one of the biggest healthcare organizations in the area, offers a wide range of positions in the management and administration of healthcare. For MBA graduates interested in the healthcare industry, their dedication to innovation in healthcare makes it a compelling option.

DuPont

DuPont is a scientific and innovation corporation that has a track record of inventing solutions in a variety of fields, including electronics and agriculture. Opportunities in management, strategy, and operations are available to MBA graduates, which can promote innovation and sustainability.

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

JPMorgan Chase is a major player in Delaware’s financial sector. With a strong presence in the state, they offer numerous opportunities for finance professionals, including those with MBAs. Positions like investment banking, risk management, and financial analysis are commonly available.

Mountaire Farms

Mountaire Farms is an excellent place to work if you’re interested in agriculture or the food sector. MBA graduates with a strong interest in sustainable agriculture can apply for positions in supply chain management and operations at this organization.

Student Submitted Questions about Online MBA Programs in Delaware

Do online MBA programs in Delaware require the GMAT?

The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a computer-responsive test designed to assess certain analytical, writing, quantitative, verbal, and English reading skills used by graduate management programs, such as MBA programs, to assist with admissions selections.

The GMAT is still required by many graduate schools of all shapes and sizes — elite research universities, public universities, liberal arts colleges, online colleges, etc. There’s no real common denominator for which types of schools require the GMAT or don’t.

Of the three online MBA programs in Delaware, the University of Delaware and Wilmington University do not require the GMAT.

If you are considering a graduate business school that requires the GMAT, then you certainly want to do well on the exam. Even if schools you’re considering don’t require it, you may want to take the test because a high score could still help your application and because there may be another college that suddenly interests you, and it might require successful completion of the GMAT.

If you’re going to take the test, at minimum, you’ll want to study with solid guidance provided by quality resources. Therefore, we recommend that you start looking at and comparing the best-selling GMAT test guides.

On the other end of the spectrum, if you are aspiring to be admitted into an elite university’s program, you may want to work with a graduate or business school admissions expert. An admissions consultant can give you the most customized information about your prospects, and many will work with you on whatever specific need you might have — test prep, applications, personal essays, and even help with finding meaningful internships.

There are a growing number of high-quality MBA programs that don’t require the GMAT. If standardized testing isn’t a strength of yours, you may want to move your search to focus specifically on online MBA programs with no GMAT requirements.

How long does it take to get an MBA in Delaware?

Typically, online MBA degrees can be earned in about two years. However, specializations range from healthcare management to entrepreneurship to international business. Because MBAs offer so many educational paths, program requirements can vary greatly, from 30 to 60 credits, which means this degree may take anywhere between one to three years to complete.

What are the courses in an online MBA program like?

MBA courses are available both online and on campus, and many programs require a thesis or professional experience component. Students will study topics like corporate law, organizational behavior, and negotiations.

Most online MBA programs will be asynchronous for maximum flexibility. This means students watch lectures and read when they can and likely join web forums for class discussions. While online MBA courses can be “self-paced,” there usually are still mid-term and end-of-term deadlines. Typical online MBA courses will have multiple deadlines throughout the semester for various assignments.

What can you do with an online MBA?

MBA graduates can advance to leadership roles in accounting, finance, human resources, organizational administration, and more. MBAs are popular because of their versatility. With so many choices of concentrations, your MBA can prepare you for leadership or executive roles in virtually any industry.

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Online Degree Frequently Asked Questions

If this is your first time taking an online course, the experience may require some adjustment. While you’ll generally learn the same content and take the same exams as your on-campus peers, the medium will likely require you to manage much of this experience independently. You’ll be accountable for your own time management, your ability to harness the technology at your fingertips, and your ability to focus on the lectures, lessons, and assignments at hand. This means you’ll need to create a suitable workspace for yourself, maintain a realistic schedule, and take it upon yourself to build relationships with your instructors and classmates. With online college, your goal is to find a balance between independence and engagement.

No. The only part of online education that’s easier is actually getting there. Taking the commute out of the equation means getting to class should be a lot more manageable. But that’s where it ends. In general, your online courses will incorporate the very same materials, concepts, and testing methods as would a traditional classroom.

And in many cases, you’ll even have the same instructors as your on-campus counterparts. In fact, if you are adjusting to the experience of independent learning or working with remote learning technology for the first time, online college may even be a little more challenging for you. For a few insights on how to manage this new experience, check out our 10 Tips for Adjusting to School Online.

Accreditation is especially important when it comes to online college. This is because the online education landscape is a mix of highly-reputable institutions and less-than-reputable for-profit schools. Accreditation gives you the power to differentiate between the two. Accreditation is a stamp of approval from an independent accrediting agency which indicates that a college or university is meeting standards of quality, credibility, and currency. School-wide accreditation falls into two major categories: regional and national accreditation. Regional accreditors generally hold jurisdiction only over schools in the states comprising their region, whereas national accreditors hold jurisdiction over schools in all states. Regional accreditation is widely regarded as a more rigorous standard of quality and credibility than national accreditation.

Attending a college or university which is not regionally accredited could limit your opportunities. When seeking an online education, we strongly recommend that students opt for regionally accredited schools. Regional accreditation ensures eligibility for federal loans and grants, ensures your college credits can be transferred between schools, and ensures that your degree credits can be accepted if you wish to earn an advanced degree.

As long as your online college degree is regionally accredited, you should have little difficulty transferring most of your credits or credentials to another regionally accredited undergraduate school. Every school carries its own standards and procedures for granting a transfer. In many cases, you will be required to navigate a bureaucracy in which some of your credits will be transferred and others will be jettisoned. However, provided that you have attended an online school with the proper regional accreditation, you should have plenty of options for transfer.

In most cases, as long you graduate from a well-regarded, regionally-accredited online college, prospective employers won’t look sideways at your degree. In fact, unless you attend an exclusively online college or university, there will likely be no specific indicator on your degree, transcript or resume differentiating your school from its brick-and-mortar counterpart. This means that your employer will likely only differentiate between an online and in-person degree if you mention this distinction.

While some employers may express concern about making the adjustment from online education to in-person workplace collaboration, many other employers will view your online degree as evidence of valuable 21st Century professional skills such as independence, self-motivation, time management, and tech savvy.

If you are a student who thrives on the dynamic energy of in-person discussion, who requires the physical surroundings of a classroom to feel engaged, or who considers the social aspects of education to be of equal importance to the actual content of your courses, online education will require some adjustment.

While there is much that can be supplanted or simulated through the online medium, some students may find that there is nothing which can replace the conversation, collaboration, and motivation that occur in an actual classroom setting. As you make the adjustment to online education, one of the biggest challenges you will likely face is overcoming this difference in order to the get the most out of your classes. Fortunately, we’ve got some great Tips for Online Education Beginners.

The advantages of online classes are many. First and foremost, online courses give you the freedom and flexibility to attend class from anywhere that works for you, whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop, or in a quiet conference room at work. In many cases, you’ll also enjoy the convenience of asynchronous learning opportunities-educational experiences that you can complete on your own schedule. This may include pre-taped lectures, ongoing chat-board discussions, and 24/7 access to digital materials. And of course, just as there are some learners who prefer the energy of a live classroom, there are those who learn best when working in their own personal space, free from distractions. If this sounds like you, you might find the solitude of online learning to be a major advantage.

Resources for Prospective Grad Students

Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here