Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois

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Key Takeaways

  • An online MBA program in Illinois can open leadership role opportunities in accounting, finance, human resources, organizational administration.
  • The state of Illinois has a number of key industries, perfectly positioning online MBA graduates for career advancement.
  • A number of the online MBA degree programs in Illinois can be completed on a part-time basis, making the programs a viable option for busy working professionals.

Illinois's Best Online MBA Programs

Sort by:
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
  2. Western Illinois University
  3. Roosevelt University
  4. Benedictine University
  5. National Louis University
  6. McKendree University
  7. North Central College
  8. Lewis University
  9. North Park University
  10. Governors State University
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
  2. Roosevelt University
  3. Elmhurst University
  4. Western Illinois University
  5. National Louis University
  6. North Central College
  7. Benedictine University
  8. Aurora University
  9. McKendree University
  10. North Park University
  1. Benedictine University 93%
  2. National Louis University 92%
  3. Dominican University 90%
  4. Roosevelt University 88%
  5. Aurora University 82%
  6. Elmhurst University 76%
  7. Western Illinois University 75%
  8. Lewis University 74%
  9. North Park University 68%
  10. McKendree University 68%
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign 21 to 1
  2. Aurora University 18 to 1
  3. McKendree University 17 to 1
  4. National Louis University 15 to 1
  5. Lewis University 14 to 1
  6. Olivet Nazarene University 14 to 1
  7. Elmhurst University 13 to 1
  8. Western Illinois University 13 to 1
  9. University of St. Francis 13 to 1
  10. Benedictine University 13 to 1
  1. North Central College $43,046
  2. Elmhurst University $40,232
  3. Olivet Nazarene University $37,940
  4. Lewis University $36,530
  5. Dominican University $36,500
  6. University of St. Francis $36,000
  7. Benedictine University $34,290
  8. North Park University $34,020
  9. McKendree University $33,430
  10. Roosevelt University $33,068
  1. Elmhurst University $33,000
  2. Roosevelt University $22,764
  3. Dominican University $19,900
  4. Benedictine University $19,181
  5. North Central College $15,822
  6. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign $14,891
  7. Lewis University $14,760
  8. Aurora University $14,586
  9. North Park University $14,004
  10. University of St. Francis $13,950
  1. Aurora University
  2. University of St. Francis
  3. Elmhurst University
  4. Dominican University
  5. Olivet Nazarene University
  6. Governors State University
  7. North Park University
  8. Lewis University
  9. North Central College
  10. McKendree University
  1. University of St. Francis
  2. Olivet Nazarene University
  3. Dominican University
  4. Lewis University
  5. Governors State University
  6. North Park University
  7. McKendree University
  8. Aurora University
  9. Benedictine University
  10. North Central College
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign 45%
  2. Governors State University 57%
  3. University of St. Francis 58%
  4. Olivet Nazarene University 58%
  5. North Central College 61%
  6. McKendree University 68%
  7. North Park University 68%
  8. Lewis University 74%
  9. Western Illinois University 75%
  10. Elmhurst University 76%
  1. North Park University 10 to 1
  2. Governors State University 10 to 1
  3. Dominican University 11 to 1
  4. Roosevelt University 11 to 1
  5. North Central College 12 to 1
  6. Elmhurst University 13 to 1
  7. Western Illinois University 13 to 1
  8. University of St. Francis 13 to 1
  9. Benedictine University 13 to 1
  10. Lewis University 14 to 1
  1. Governors State University $7,512
  2. National Louis University $11,580
  3. Western Illinois University $14,406
  4. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign $14,542
  5. Aurora University $27,420
  6. Roosevelt University $33,068
  7. McKendree University $33,430
  8. North Park University $34,020
  9. Benedictine University $34,290
  10. University of St. Francis $36,000
  1. Governors State University $6,354
  2. Western Illinois University $8,609
  3. McKendree University $9,450
  4. National Louis University $11,646
  5. Olivet Nazarene University $12,290
  6. University of St. Francis $13,950
  7. North Park University $14,004
  8. Aurora University $14,586
  9. Lewis University $14,760
  10. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign $14,891

From the skyscrapers in Chicago to the vast prairie lands in the north, Illinois is a place where the city meets the country. Students can grab a Chicago-style hotdog on the way to a Cubs game, explore the ancient sandstone cliffs in the Shawnee National Forest, or admire an exhibit at the Art Institute of Chicago, all while attending one of the state’s best colleges for an online MBA.

Working professionals seeking to advance their business education and skills have a lot of online opportunities in Illinois. The state has a wide selection of online MBA programs, guaranteeing that people from different backgrounds and industries can find a program that matches their career goals and aspirations.

These online programs allow graduate students to continue working and applying what they’ve learned in real-world settings, gaining useful skills, growing professional networks, and pursuing leadership roles within their chosen sectors.

Featured Programs

Colleges and Universities in Illinois

Prospective students searching for colleges in Illinois have plenty of excellent schools to choose from. Illinois offers over 130 higher education institutes throughout the state. Thanks to an expansive public university system and several top private institutions, students can select from an extremely wide array of online colleges in Illinois.

Students attending The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, one of the state’s largest public universities, can access a full spectrum of online graduate degrees for an in-state tuition rate of about $18,000. It’s worth noting that out-of-state students will generally pay a higher tuition rate whether pursuing on-campus or online degrees.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.

More than half of the colleges in Illinois are actually private schools. The state is also home to many small private schools, including Benedictine University and National Louis University.

The higher education institutes in Illinois have also produced many prominent alumni, including Stephen Colbert, Phillip Glass, and Kurt Vonnegut. Students hoping to walk the same streets as these well-known individuals can check out some of the state’s top programs and universities.


What are Illinois’s Colleges & Universities?

Illinois’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 Illinois

  1. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $18K

    Acceptance

    45%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    62K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1415/31

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Cost of Degree: $18,131
    Expenses: $16,420
    Starting Salary: $111,170
    Salary after 4 years: $136,944
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is one of the largest public universities in Illinois, offering over 100 rigorous and competitive majors leading to certificates and degrees. The university’s Gies College of Business is one of the most competitive business schools in the nation, and is accredited by the AACSB.

    The Gies online MBA degree has a very demanding admission process and offers a comprehensive curriculum. Online students will learn from world-renowned faculty experts and must complete self-paced intensive online classes. Each course in this MBA program consists of online homework in addition to extras like case studies, in-depth discussions, and faculty involvement.

    Concentrations include:

    • Digital Marketing
    • Entrepreneurship and Strategic Innovation
    • Global Challenges in Business
    • Business Analytics
    • Mergers & Acquisitions

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 72
    • Completion time: 2-3 Years
    • Format: Online
  2. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    47%

    Student body

    9K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Western Illinois University

    Cost of Degree: $12,693
    Expenses: $13,721
    Starting Salary: $74,479
    Salary after 4 years: $91,747
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Western Illinois University, one of the most prominent higher education institutions in the United States, has a track record of producing business experts. The Master of Business Administration at Western Illinois is among the best online MBA programs nationwide, providing students with an AACSB-accredited curriculum and reasonably priced tuition and fees.

    It aims to produce socially conscious leaders in a varied business environment. With no in-person requirements and no set log-in times, students enrolled in this online program benefit from a very flexible online learning experience.

    Western Illinois University students explore several core courses, including advanced topics in Accounting, Management, Economics, Finance, Management Information Systems, and Marketing. Students can tailor their degree programs and choose a concentration in Management and Supply Chain Management that best aligns with their goals.

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 33
    • Completion time: 1-1.5 Years
    • Format: Online
  3. #3

    Roosevelt University

    Chicago , IL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    43%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    960/21

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Roosevelt University

    Cost of Degree: $23,094
    Expenses: $20,625
    Starting Salary: $65,085
    Salary after 4 years: $79,709
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Roosevelt University’s Heller College of Business has become a notable name in business education. This ACBSP-accredited business school offers several business degree programs, including its online Master of Business Administration that can be completed part-time through online learning delivery.

    The Heller MBA provides online students the same opportunities and academic rigor as their on-campus peers, including access to networking events, student support services, and experiential learning. The program’s curriculum integrates real business case studies and topics that build on a student’s undergraduate degree knowledge.

    Core courses of the program include Statistics for Business Decisions, Information Resource Management, Strategic Management, and Marketing Strategy. Upon completion of core and foundation courses, students will be able to choose a concentration.

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Accounting
    • Accounting Forensics
    • Finance
    • Human Resource Management
    • Information Systems
    • Integrated Marketing Communications
    • International Business
    • I/O Pscyhology
    • Management
    • Marketing
    • Social Entrepreneurship
    • Training and Development
    • Required Credits: 33
    • Completion time: 1 Year
    • Format: Online
  4. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    93%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Benedictine University

    Cost of Degree: $20,239
    Expenses: $15,042
    Starting Salary: $76,955
    Salary after 4 years: $94,247
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Students seeking to develop advanced business skills in Catholic environment can consider enrolling at Benedictine University. The university’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a regionally accredited program that has made a commitment to values-driven leadership and ethical decision-making in the business world clear. It features an accelerated one-year option and a traditional two-year track.

    The program provides students with the abilities required for high-level business leadership positions. The curriculum covers key concepts like supply and demand, financial analysis, managerial economics, management, and team-building. Graduates will be able to navigate 21st-century challenges and market dynamics.

    Concentrations include:

    • Change Management
    • Digital Marketing
    • Project Management
    • Talent Management

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 32
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  5. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    31%

    Student body

    10K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at National Louis University

    Cost of Degree: $12,171
    Starting Salary: $69,314
    Salary after 4 years: $84,889

    Known for offering several career-focused degrees, National Louis University has been a top training ground for business experts in Illinois. The school’s business education programs are matched with dedicated student support services and esteemed faculty to ensure students’ success.

    National Louis University’s Master of Business Administration is one of the best online MBA programs in Illinois, emphasizing leadership, diversity, hands-on problem-solving, and business knowledge. Online students can pursue fully online coursework or choose to pursue some courses on campus.

    Students will delve into an IACBE-accredited curriculum that includes advanced topics, such as Critical Thinking and Research Skills, Managerial Accounting, Technology and Leadership, and Strategic Marketing and Storytelling.

    Concentrations include:

    • Accounting
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Health Services Administration
    • Human Resource Management
    • Nonprofit Management
    • Design Thinking

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  6. #6

    McKendree University

    Lebanon , IL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at McKendree University

    Cost of Degree: $9,450
    Expenses: $15,300
    Starting Salary: $68,496
    Salary after 4 years: $83,886
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    McKendree University offers online degree programs emphasizing experiential learning, internships, service-learning, and research opportunities. The university’s School of Business offers several accredited online business programs, including an online Master of Business Administration program for working professionals. Online coursework is conducted in eight-week asynchronous sessions and allows students to focus on one course at a time.

    The McKendree online MBA provides students with IACBE-accredited coursework that equips them with the knowledge to enhance their business careers and advanced business skills for inventive problem-solving. This program promotes a complete understanding of real-world business processes, fostering critical and innovative thinking.

    Coursework explores various subjects, such as Accounting for Managers, Corporate Finance, Organizational Behavior, and Global Organizations and Management.

    Concentrations include:

    • General MBA
    • Corporate Finance
    • Cyber Defense
    • Digital Marketing
    • Human Resource Management

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  7. #7

    North Central College

    Naperville , IL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $43K

    Acceptance

    61%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1130/25

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at North Central College

    Cost of Degree: $15,822
    Expenses: $14,920
    Starting Salary: $71,361
    Salary after 4 years: $87,395
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    North Central College is one of the best colleges in Illinois, providing facilities and innovative programs to both online and on-campus students. North Central offers over 60 majors leading to degrees, including an online Master of Business Administration offered by the School of Business and Entrepreneurship. North Central University’s online MBA program focuses on helping students explore, challenge themselves, and prepare for their future, all with a commitment to personal growth and success.

    This online MBA program is designed for ambitious professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in the future without sacrificing their current commitments. In addition to rigorous online coursework, participants will also be able to connect with Chicago area business leaders through the college’s networking opportunities.

    Graduates gain valuable insights, an expanded professional network, and potential career growth, with a focus on business fundamentals, data analysis, global management, ethics, and diverse business concepts.

    Concentrations include:

    • International Business
    • Financial Management
    • Human Resource Management

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 1 year
    • Format: Online
  8. #8

    Lewis University

    Romeoville , IL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    8K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1105/25

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Lewis University

    Cost of Degree: $14,960
    Expenses: $15,590
    Starting Salary: $73,135
    Salary after 4 years: $89,568
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Lewis University is a world-renowned liberal arts institution with practical, goal-oriented education programs available online. The Lewis College of Business is a top-performing business school that offers accelerated degree programs designed for adult students with existing work and family commitments.

    The web-based Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Lewis is known for its low student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, emphasizing a tight-knit online learning environment. This low ratio ensures that students receive personalized attention and support, enhancing the quality of their educational experience.

    The program’s curriculum, which the ACSBP acknowledges, is designed to address social and economic disruptions. Registered nurses seeking to broaden their knowledge of healthcare management can pursue an MSN/MBA dual degree option.

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 36-54
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  9. #9

    North Park University

    Chicago , IL

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at North Park University

    Cost of Degree: $14,184
    Expenses: $13,825
    Starting Salary: $62,219
    Salary after 4 years: $76,199
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Students seeking a Christian-centered university can explore North Park National University, one of the top private schools in the nation. The School of Business and Nonprofit Management at North Park offers some of the best degree programs in Illinois and prepares students for the business world, including accredited graduate degrees.

    North Park offers a flexible online Master of Business Administration that equips professionals with advanced knowledge and skills for ethical leadership roles in diverse sectors. Graduates will gain abilities in various business areas in the global context and be able to address ethical dilemmas within relevant frameworks. Online students can tailor their MBA degrees by choosing electives that lead to graduate business or nonprofit certificates.

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 21 months
    • Format: Online
  10. #10

    Governors State University

    University Park , IL

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    57%

    Graduation

    21%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Governors State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,590
    Expenses: $15,100
    Starting Salary: $68,991
    Salary after 4 years: $84,987
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Governors State University is focused on guiding students toward their career paths with the help of the university’s excellent academic advisors. The university’s business programs equip students with a solid understanding of essential business concepts, ethics, and leadership skills, ensuring they are well-prepared for their professional journey.

    Governors State offers one of the most competitive 100% online MBA in Supply Chain Management degrees available. Accredited by the AACSB, the program’s curriculum prepares students for a career in managing international manufacturing processes.

    The program aims to provide students with the skills to optimize supply chains in various organizations through advanced courses. Students can complete the program requirements in as little as 18 months, making it a flexible and perfect option for professional progression.

    Online Master’s Degrees

    MBA in Supply Chain Management
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  11. #11

    Olivet Nazarene University

    Bourbonnais , IL

    Tuition + fees

    $38K

    Acceptance

    58%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Olivet Nazarene University

    Cost of Degree: $12,290
    Expenses: $13,540
    Starting Salary: $60,036
    Salary after 4 years: $73,526
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Olivet Nazarene University is one of the most progressive private institutions in Illinois, offering various programs, including business education. Its strong dedication to academic quality gives students excellent possibilities to succeed in their chosen industries. Olivet is also known for its generous transfer credit policies, accepting up to six transfer credits.

    The Master of Business Administration at ONU, offered by the McGraw School of Business, is a versatile online MBA program for busy working professionals. The curriculum equips students with essential business skills while providing elective options that lead to certificates.

    Students develop competence in communication, ethics, financial analysis, branding, problem-solving, change management, and leadership strategies.

    Concentrations include:

    • Corporate Communications
    • Healthcare Leadership
    • Intercultural Competence
    • Leadership
    • Nonprofit Management

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 1.5-2 Years
    • Format: Online
  12. young business professional sitting at a desk in front of a computer
  13. #12

    Dominican University

    River Forest , IL

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1015/19

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Dominican University

    Cost of Degree: $20,400
    Expenses: $13,622
    Starting Salary: $68,086
    Salary after 4 years: $83,385
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Recognized as one of the top schools for social mobility and innovation in the MidWest, Dominican University offers several opportunities for students seeking to advance their careers or explore new options. The Brennan School of Business at Dominican is one of the highest-ranked business school in Illinois, offering several online degrees, including a Master of Business Administration.

    The Brennan online MBA program offers an AACSB-accredited curriculum with collaborative small classes, real-world experiences, and an academic-practical balance, making it a top choice for prospective students. The curriculum includes modules covering leadership, ethics, problem-solving, finance, marketing, and operations, creating well-rounded business leaders. Students can also opt for elective courses or earn certificates for specialization.

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: 18 months
    • Format: Online
  14. #13

    Elmhurst University

    Elmhurst , IL

    Tuition + fees

    $40K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    64%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/23

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Elmhurst University

    Cost of Degree: $33,370
    Expenses: $15,760
    Starting Salary: $70,406
    Salary after 4 years: $86,226
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Elmhurst University, known for its excellence in higher education, offers several career-focused academic programs. As a private liberal arts college, Elmhurst is one of the best schools for students seeking to study in small class sizes.

    Elmhurst’s School of Business is one of the top providers of business education in Illinois, offering an online MBA degree designed for busy working professionals. The program aims to equip graduate students with a thorough understanding of various business topics and analytical tools and skills for the business industry.

    Students can pursue a concentration or a general online MBA. Graduates will have the ability to succeed in a variety of diverse, international environments.

    Concentrations include:

    • Computer Information Technology
    • Data Science
    • Finance
    • General Management
    • Geography and Gis
    • Management of People
    • Managerial Leadership
    • Marketing and Consumer Insights
    • Project Management
    • Supply Chain Management
    • Healthcare Administration

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)

    Concentrations

    • Computer Information Technology
    • Data Science
    • Finance
    • General Management
    • Geography and Gis
    • Management of People
    • Managerial Leadership
    • Marketing and Consumer Insights
    • Project Management
    • Supply Chain Management
    • Healthcare Administration
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
  15. Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    58%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1135/25

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of St. Francis

    Cost of Degree: $14,325
    Expenses: $15,230
    Starting Salary: $77,092
    Salary after 4 years: $94,414
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The University of St. Francis is famous for offering students valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth. One of its major programs is the online MBA offered by the College of Business and Health Administration. This accelerated degree program has an average completion time of 12 months.

    Online MBA students can complete the required online courses at their own pace, giving business professionals maximum flexibility and control over their schedules. Accredited by the ACBSP, the USF MBA offers an updated curriculum that prepares students for the competitive business landscape. It covers global issues, the corporate value chain, analytical thinking, leadership, and decision-making.

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 1 Year
    • Format: Online
  16. #15

    Aurora University

    Aurora , IL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1089/22

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Aurora University

    Cost of Degree: $14,586
    Expenses: $16,602
    Starting Salary: $63,038
    Salary after 4 years: $77,202
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Aurora University is one of the most affordable choices for distance learners seeking to study in a high-quality graduate program. Online programs at Aurora, including its online MBA, follow the same curriculum and coursework as its on-campus programs.

    Aurora also offers several financial aid opportunities to reduce students’ financial worries.

    The Aurora Master of Business Administration offers customizable online classes designed to help business professionals enhance career opportunities and salary potential. Placing a strong emphasis on fundamental business concepts, the Aurora online MBA delves into critical areas such as marketing, organizational behavior, leadership, finance, and accounting. While no concentration is offered, online MBA students can pursue electives in Healthcare and Leadership.

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 1 Year
    • Format: Online

Career Outlook for Students with MBA Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Business Administration And Management

Degree Level: Master's

  • Location: Illinois (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Cost of Degree*: $15,275
  • Avg. Expenses*: $16,470
  • Avg. Starting Salary*: $73,442
  • Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $92,391
  • 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
Chief Executives-8.21%$220,390
Computer and Information Systems Managers15.41%$159,100
Purchasing Managers4.39%$132,230
Sales Managers4.06%$131,830
Human Resources Managers5.22%$128,330

Average Career Salaries

Bottom 10%MedianTop 10%
$56,928$96,596$157,325

Promising Job Markets

StateCost of LivingAvg. Salary
#5 Illinois7% higher than average$96,596
#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
Chief Executives$220,390
Computer and Information Systems Managers$159,100
Purchasing Managers$132,230

Students can pursue an online MBA program in any state, but a neighboring state can expand your choices of excellent degree programs. Students in Illinois may choose to explore programs in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, or Indiana. An online education can be a great option no matter your state of residence.

Why pursue an online MBA in Illinois?

In addition to being home to several world-renowned universities and business schools, Illinois is also at the forefront of business, technology, and healthcare.

There are over 1.2 million small businesses in Illinois, employing over 2.5 million people, accounting for 44.7 percent of the state’s workforce. Moreover, there are 35 Fortune 500 companies headquartered in the state and more than 2,000 foreign-based businesses. These numbers are clear indicators of booming business climate in Illinois.

The coexistence of small businesses, Fortune 500 companies, and international corporations in Illinois provides online MBA students with a diverse array of career opportunities. Whether you’re interested in joining a multinational corporation, launching a startup, or working with small businesses, Illinois offers a multitude of options to match your career aspirations.

Illinois also has a thriving cultural scene, a wide variety of culinary experiences, and many leisure activities in addition to its business opportunities. These enhance the overall quality of life and contribute to the enriching and delightful experience of earning and using an MBA in Illinois.

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Largest Employers of MBA Graduates in Illinois

Allstate Corp

Allstate is one of the top insurance companies in the country. Offering a variety of professional pathways in fields like finance, marketing, data analytics, and strategic planning, Allstate is a significant employer of recent MBA graduates. Allstate offers MBA professionals a stable and fulfilling work environment with opportunities to impact the insurance market.

Adjutant General

In the Illinois National Guard, the Adjutant General plays a pivotal role in supervising the management and administration of the state’s armed forces. This company is ideal for MBA graduates interested in government and military service.

State Farm Mutual Auto Insurance Company

Another significant participant in the insurance market is State Farm, which provides several opportunities for MBA graduates in several disciplines, such as operations, marketing, finance, and IT. Because of its reputation for embracing technology and innovation, State Farm attracts individuals interested in working on cutting-edge insurance solutions.

Along with these three well-known firms, Illinois has various businesses and industries that respect MBA skills. With its thriving financial, technological, healthcare, and consulting sectors, Chicago, in particular, offers MBA graduates a wealth of chances to put their knowledge and experience to use.

Student Submitted Questions about Online MBA Programs in Illinois

Do online MBA programs in Illinois 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.

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.

What are the admission requirements for online MBA programs in Illinois?

Admission requirements vary from school to school. For instance, colleges and universities with lower acceptance rates may require more competitive application materials than those with a 100% acceptance rate.

Most MBA programs require applicants to earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Some programs may specify the preferred undergraduate major, often in a related field such as business, economics, or engineering. However, many MBA programs also accept students from diverse academic backgrounds.

Additionally, some MBA programs, mainly those considered more prestigious or competitive, prefer candidates with prior work experience. The required work experience can range from a few years to a decade. This work experience is often seen as an indicator of your ability to apply the knowledge gained in the program to real-world situations.

However, there are a few general MBA admission requirements at most schools, including:

  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Statement of Purpose or Essay
  • Interview
  • Transcripts and Academic Records
  • Resume
  • English Language Proficiency Test

How long does it take to get an online MBA?

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

However, an accelerated online MBA program can take as little as 12 months of full-time study to complete.

What are the courses in an online MBA program in Illinois 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 MBA in Illinois?

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.

What is accreditation and why is it important?

There are two main types of accreditation for higher education institutions in the United States: Regional Accreditation and National Accreditation. Those with regional accreditations are considered highly prestigious than institutions with national accreditations. On top of these two accreditations, there are also programmatic accreditations.

Programmatic accreditation for business schools focuses specifically on the quality and standards of business programs. Two of the most well-known programmatic accreditations for business schools are the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Another type of business school accreditation is awarded by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).

Ensuring that the school you choose is regionally and programmatically accredited is very important, especially if you plan on applying to large companies. Graduating from an accredited online MBA will help you stand out in the competitive job market and gain the respect of potential employers.

By accreditation, a program’s quality assurance system guarantees that it adheres to strict quality and rigor criteria. This is especially important for an online MBA since these degrees are frequently seen as stepping stones to executive and leadership roles in businesses.

Illinois is just one of many states offering excellent online MBA programs. To check out our rankings, look into the best online associate’s degrees in Alaska, Rhode Island, Maine, and more!

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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.

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