The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2023 Ranked for Students

BEST ONLINE MBA PROGRAMS
By James Barham
Published:
Updated:

Find top-ranked online Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree programs for students wanting to advance to leadership roles in accounting, finance, human resources, organizational administration, and more.

10 Best Online MBA Programs

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  1. Johns Hopkins University
  2. University of Southern California
  3. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  4. Brandeis University
  5. University of Arizona
  6. Syracuse University
  7. University of Miami
  8. University of Missouri
  9. Rice University
  10. University of Massachusetts Amherst
  1. University of Maine 96%
  2. University of Memphis 95%
  3. University of Kentucky 94%
  4. Virginia Commonwealth University 93%
  5. Stetson University 92%
  6. Roosevelt University 92%
  7. University of Mississippi 90%
  8. University of Alabama at Birmingham 89%
  9. University of Baltimore 89%
  10. Arizona State University 88%
  1. University of North Texas 26 to 1
  2. Florida International University 25 to 1
  3. University of Texas at Dallas 25 to 1
  4. Florida State University 21 to 1
  5. Northern Michigan University 20 to 1
  6. University of Alabama at Birmingham 20 to 1
  7. Auburn University 20 to 1
  8. University of Cincinnati 19 to 1
  9. University of Louisville 19 to 1
  10. Texas Tech University 19 to 1
  1. University of Southern California $61,503
  2. Southern Methodist University $60,236
  3. Brandeis University $60,006
  4. Pepperdine University $59,702
  5. Johns Hopkins University $58,720
  6. Syracuse University $57,591
  7. Stevens Institute of Technology $56,920
  8. Babson College $54,944
  9. University of Miami $54,760
  10. Rice University $52,895
  1. Babson College $89,550
  2. University of Southern California $60,446
  3. Johns Hopkins University $58,720
  4. Brandeis University $53,498
  5. Rochester Institute of Technology $52,092
  6. Rice University $49,279
  7. Syracuse University $41,616
  8. University of Miami $39,834
  9. Stevens Institute of Technology $38,076
  10. Baylor University $37,674
  1. Northern Michigan University
  2. University of Baltimore
  3. Kettering University
  4. Golden Gate University
  5. Xavier University
  6. Missouri University of Science and Technology
  7. Babson College
  8. Manhattan College
  9. New Jersey Institute of Technology
  10. Stetson University
  1. Johns Hopkins University 8%
  2. Rice University 9%
  3. University of Southern California 13%
  4. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 20%
  5. Babson College 25%
  6. University of Miami 28%
  7. Florida State University 37%
  8. Brandeis University 39%
  9. North Carolina State University 47%
  10. Clemson University 49%
  1. Rice University 6 to 1
  2. Johns Hopkins University 6 to 1
  3. University of Southern California 9 to 1
  4. Brandeis University 10 to 1
  5. Drake University 10 to 1
  6. Southern Methodist University 11 to 1
  7. Manhattan College 11 to 1
  8. Xavier University 11 to 1
  9. Roosevelt University 11 to 1
  10. Golden Gate University 12 to 1
  1. Florida State University $4,640
  2. Florida International University $4,721
  3. North Carolina State University $6,535
  4. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill $7,019
  5. University of Baltimore $7,154
  6. University of Nebraska–Lincoln $7,770
  7. University of North Texas $8,295
  8. University of Memphis $8,352
  9. University of Alabama at Birmingham $8,568
  10. University of Mississippi $8,934
  1. University of Nebraska–Lincoln $6,138
  2. University of North Texas $6,350
  3. Texas Tech University $6,956
  4. University of Alabama at Birmingham $8,100
  5. Florida International University $8,912
  6. University of Mississippi $8,938
  7. North Carolina State University $9,095
  8. University of Memphis $9,378
  9. Florida State University $9,684
  10. University of Maine $9,738

Key Takeaways

  • If you hold an MBA degree, you can qualify for senior management roles of your choice. This is also ideal if you plan on changing careers in the future.
  • It’s a given that earning an online MBA degree is costly, but the ROI makes the investment worth it.
  • The best online MBA business programs will equip you with industry connections and leadership skills that are crucial to advancing your career.

See our complete guide to MBAs for more information.

Featured Programs

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Online MBA Programs Are Your Key to Lucrative Business Careers

Online MBA programs have significantly increased in popularity amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) said that applications to online MBA programs grew by 43.5% in 2020. While MBA programs were once consigned to the classroom, today, you can study anywhere you want, anytime.

Online MBA programs entice older and more experienced candidates over full-time, school-based counterparts. This is partly because the prospective students of online MBA programs are already working professionals. Thus, becoming full-time students is no longer a priority. Online MBA programs are the best options for students who don’t want to or cannot take the two years out of their jobs a conventional full-time MBA degree demands.

Types of Online MBA Programs

Some online MBA programs are 100 percent delivered online, while others may require students to attend several days on campus, specifically during the program’s first and last few days.

For working professionals, many schools offering online MBA programs give ample time for the students to complete their classes—sometimes even up to six years. But the usual program length for the online MBA is between 24 and 36 months. Some business schools also offer an accelerated one-year online program, although these usually come with specific candidate requirements.

Online MBA Courses and Curriculum

The online MBA syllabus is the same as the full-time MBA but is delivered mostly online. Distance learning students will get a grounding in the major business fundamentals, including:

  • Marketing
  • Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Strategy
  • Human Resource
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Investing

You can then select your electives, ensuring that you focus on your core interest. Online MBA courses may also focus on entrepreneurship and new venture creation, mergers and acquisitions, behavioral science, or project management.

The learning delivery of an online MBA program will also vary. Synchronous learning is where you are placed in a virtual and interactive classroom with group work, case study work, and live discussions.

On the other hand, an asynchronous learning mode allows students to complete their degree on their own schedule. Lectures are often pre-recorded, making it easier for busy working professionals to complete their classwork while still managing their career.

Considerations When Choosing an Online MBA Program

Pursuing an MBA degree is a huge decision, but you have many other things to consider before making any decision. Below are some considerations to consider when you’re pursuing your master’s degree.

Accreditation for MBA Programs: A properly regionally accredited program and school guarantees that they are certified and trustworthy. Accredited institutions have proven to meet the highest standards of quality education and have undergone third-party reviews by an outside learning commission. You know you are getting the best quality education when you attend accredited schools.

Admissions: Before starting your application, make sure you check each school’s admission policies. All schools require a GPA and official transcripts, but not all set a minimum GPA requirement. Some schools require GMAT score ranges, while some don’t.

Other admissions requirements include professional work experience, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.

Specialized or General MBA: Which is Better?

How do you know whether a general or specialized MBA better suits your career goals? While both MBA programs build your core business skills, a specialized MBA provides you with an in-depth education in a specific field like entrepreneurship or finance. The specialized MBA program is best suited for students or working professionals who plan to enter or switch careers to a subfield from which they believe they are most productive.

The courses focus on a broader business curriculum for general MBA programs. This usually takes 2-3 years to complete, and students must have at least minimal work experience before applying for the program.

Frequently Asked Questions About MBA Degrees

The Master of Business Administration, commonly referred to as an MBA, is the most popular advanced degree in American higher education. This versatile degree offers a variety of specializations that can help working professionals build leadership skills, expand their network, and enhance their overall business knowledge.

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

Go to Online MBA programs with no GMAT requirements

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. People have many different opinions about which GMAT test prep resources are the best, 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 is a growing number of high quality MBA programs that don’t require the GMAT. Furthermore, there are a lot of highly reputable colleges and universities offering online MBA programs that do not require the GMAT. If standardized testing simply isn’t a strength of yours, you may want to move your search to focus specifically on online MBA programs with no GMAT requirements.

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Specializations range from healthcare management to entrepreneurship to international business. However, because this degree offers 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.

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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.

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Graduates can advance to leadership roles in accounting, finance, human resources, organizational administration, and more.

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Learn more about what you can do with an MBA.

Best Online MBA Programs
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Business Operations Specialists Salaries by Percentile in the U.S.

The following graph depicts the average salaries of Business Operations Specialists for each percentile in the U.S.

Source: U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS

SVG Attribution: Wikipedia

Total Employed: 6152960
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50 Best Online Master of Business Administration MBA Degree Programs

  1. #1

    University of Southern California

    Los Angeles , CA
    #13 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2023 #16 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2023 #18 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2023 #2 Best Private Colleges in California 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    13%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    38K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1435/32

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration

    The University of Southern California’s online MBA program is an accelerated, 21 month program, consisting of 51 credit hours. Classwork is comprised of both synchronous and asynchronous learning activities with students attending 2 live classes per week. The program is designed with working professionals as a focus. The average age of students in this program is 33 with 10 years of work experience. Students must complete the following classes to graduate from the program: Role of the Manager, Fundamentals of Business, Opportunity Recognition and Implementation, Managing Inside the Firm, Managing Outside the Firm, and Business Environment & Leadership. GSBA 501 (Role of the Manager) is a week-long residential intensive. Travel to Los Angeles will be required.

    Applicants must have earned a 4-year degree and have a minimum of 2 years work experience. Applicants must also submit a score from the GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment exams, or receive approval for a standardized test waiver.

    The total cost of this program is estimated at $119,822.

    • GMAT not required
    • Required Credits: 51
    • Completion time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online
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  2. #2

    Johns Hopkins University

    Baltimore , MD
    #10 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2023 #11 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2023 #11 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2023 #14 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $59K

    Acceptance

    8%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    27K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1515/35

    Online Degrees

    MS/MBA in Applied Economics And Business Administration Dual Degree

    The John Hopkins University online MBA allows for both synchronous and asynchronous learning. Courses are designed by students to fit their schedule and preferred learning style. Classes last 8 weeks and there are three annual start dates (August, January, and June). The degree may be completed in 2.7 years and must be completed within 6 years.

    Graduates of the program are qualified for careers such as Vice President, Brand Manager, Chief Nursing Officer, and Investment Analyst.

    Students in the MBA program may choose from 8 specializations: Business Analytics and Risk Management, Digital Marketing, Entrepreneurial Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Technology, Financial Management, Health Care Management, Innovation, and Technology, Investments, and Public and Private Sector Leadership.

    The tuition cost is $1,730 per credit hour. The GMAT/GRE is not required through Fall of 2022. The program requires 54 credits for completion. The Carey Business School provides 2-3 day intensive residencies in Baltimore for online learners.

    • Required Credits: 66
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS/MBA in Biotechnology And Business Administration Dual Degree
    • Required Credits: 93
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MA/MBA in Government And Business Dual Degree
    • Required Credits: 63
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
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  3. #3

    University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

    Chapel Hill , NC
    #6 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2023 #7 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #7 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2023 #16 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    20%

    Graduation

    90%

    Student body

    25K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1385/30

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration

    The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill online MBA is a STEM designated degree taught by top faculty of the Kenan-Flagler Business School. The program has 4 start dates per year (January, April, July, and October). Students may choose from over 25 electives and 5 concentrations (Entrepreneurship, Finance, Marketing, Strategy and Consulting, and Data Analytics and Decision Making).

    Applicants to the program must hold a bachelor’s degree and have at least 2 years of professional experience. The GMAT or GRE scores are required for applicants with less than 5 years of professional experience. Waivers are automatic for applicants with 5 years of experience and may be granted to those with less than 5 years under certain circumstances.

    The MBA requires 62 credits for completion and may be earned in 18-36 months. Students usually take 2 classes per quarter and complete the degree in 24 months. There are 9 core courses comprising 34 hours. Students are required to attend at least 2 Summits, which are quarterly, in-person immersive experiences. These are held both on the UNC campus and in cities around the world.

    The total tuition cost for the program is $125,589.

    • GMAT not required
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 18-36 months
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
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  4. #4

    Syracuse University

    Syracuse , NY
    #1 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2023 #7 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #25 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2023 #5 Best Research Universities in New York 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    59%

    Graduation

    82%

    Student body

    22K

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Accounting
    • Business Analytics
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Finance
    • Marketing Management
    • Supply Chain Management

    The Syracuse University online MBA is a 54 credit program that can be completed in 24 months. Students may specialize in Accounting, Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Marketing Management, and Supply Chain Management. Students may also choose their electives from the business school or other University schools such as the School of Public Communications.

    The MBA is comprised of 12 core courses (36 credits) and 15 hours of electives. Students must complete these courses and attend three residencies (1 credit each) to earn their degree. Once enrolled in the program, and up to one year after graduating, students may apply to an additional program and earn a second master’s degree with fewer credits. The Colleges of Law and Management also offer an online joint J.D./MBA.

    The MBA has four start dates per year and is designed for professionals with at least 2 years of work experience. The GMAT is not required. The estimated total cost for the program is $96,636.

    • GMAT not required
    • Required Credits: 54
    • Completion time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
    JD - MBA in Juris Doctor and Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Dual Degree
    • GMAT not required
    • Required Credits: 114
    • Completion time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online
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  5. #5

    Rice University

    Houston , TX
    #18 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2023 #19 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2023 #20 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2023 #24 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $53K

    Acceptance

    9%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    8K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1515/35

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration

    The Rice University online MBA is a 54 credit program that can be completed in 24 months. The program offers 13.5 credits in electives, allowing students to personalize their course of study. Students may focus on general management or select from seven focus areas in corporate strategy, corporate finance, investment management, marketing, entrepreneurship, energy, or healthcare.

    Students will take up to 6 credits in each 11-week term. Core courses include both full and part-term courses and may be taken concurrently. Full term courses take 10 weeks and are worth 3 credits each. Part-term courses take 5 weeks and are worth 1.5 credits each. Students are required to complete two Field Experience courses, consisting of one residential course and one Global Field Experience. Classes are synchronous (live, through Zoom).

    The GMAT or GRE may be required for this program. Waivers may be granted to applicants with 7 or more years of full-time work experience, a graduate degree, a terminal degree, a quantitatively oriented professional certification, or other standardized test scores demonstrating comparable ability. Start dates are offered four times a year. Tuition costs are approximately $113,000. This does not include costs associated with the residencies, field experiences, or textbooks.

    • Required Credits: 54
    • Completion time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online
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  7. #6

    University of Miami

    Coral Gables , FL
    #1 Best Private Colleges in Florida 2023 #2 Best Research Universities in Florida 2023 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023 #2 Best Colleges in Florida 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $55K

    Acceptance

    28%

    Graduation

    84%

    Student body

    15K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1335/30

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration

    The University of Miami offers an online MBA and an online accelerated MBA. The former is designed for professionals at all levels of experience and can be completed in 20-28 months. It requires 42 credits (including 2 immersion experiences-one virtual and one on campus) and a bachelor’s degree, but no work experience is required. The accelerated MBA is designed for professionals with an educational background in business. It can be completed in 16-24 months. The program consists of 35 credits and requires a bachelor’s, master’s or equivalent degree in business within the last seven years. A minimum of 2 years of professional experience is also required.

    The MBA program has 3 start dates a year. The GMAT is not required. Classes are taught by the same faculty who teach on campus. The business school faculty is ranked #8 in the world by The Economist. The cost for the online MBA is approximately $97,000. The cost for the accelerated MBA is approximately $80,850. Coursework is delivered in both synchronous and asynchronous formats.

    • GMAT not required
    • Required Credits: 42
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
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  8. #7

    University of Arizona

    Tucson , AZ
    #4 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #13 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2023 #19 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2023 #1 Best Colleges in Arizona 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    64%

    Student body

    40K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1220/25

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Entrepreneurship
    • Finance
    • Marketing
    • Management
    • Mis/ Privacy and Security
    • Healthcare

    The University of Arizona online MBA is a 100% online program with concentrations available in finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, health care management, management and organizations, and privacy and security. The program consists of 45 credits and may be earned in as little as 14 months and must be completed within 48 months. There are 6 starting dates per year. Online courses repeat every 14 months. Online students have the option of participating in the MBA Global Business Experience.

    The GMAT/GRE are generally required, but waivers are available under certain conditions. Applicants should also have professional experience and be able to provide one professional letter of recommendation. The cost of the program is approximately $51,525. Scholarships are available.

    • Required Credits: 45
    • Completion time: 14-30 months
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
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  9. #8

    University of Cincinnati

    Cincinnati , OH
    #11 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #2 Best Public Colleges in Ohio 2023 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Ohio 2023 #3 Best Research Universities in Ohio 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    34K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1225/26

    Online Degrees

    Master of Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Healthcare
    • Marketing
    • Taxation
    • Management

    The University of Cincinnati’s online MBA is ranked as one of the top programs in the country for its value. The program is 100% online with multiple start dates per year. It can be completed in as little as one year and requires 35-48 credits. Concentrations are offered in Health Care Administration, Health Care Finance, Health Care Operations, Health Care Policy and Regulation, Marketing, Corporate Taxation, and Individual Taxation.

    Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree. The degree may be in any field of study and applicants should have at least a “B” average. The GMAT/GRE are not required. Core courses comprise 26 semester hours and students will take 5 to 6 elective courses. Ten hours of business foundations courses may be waived under certain circumstances. Total cost for full-time, per semester, is approximately $12,000.

    • Required Credits: 38-48
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
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  10. #9

    Arizona State University

    Tempe , AZ
    #2 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2023 #2 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2023 #22 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2023 #22 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    73K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1210/24

    Online Degrees

    MBA

    The ASU online MBA consists of 17 courses. There are 9 required courses and a required capstone. Students earn a total of 49 credit hours. Classes last 5 weeks. Four focus areas are offered in finance, international business, marketing, or supply chain management. The program is aimed at working professionals.

    Graduates of this program go into careers such as business consultant, HR management, finance manager, marketing manager, and investment banker. Course offerings include organizational theory, financial performance reporting, managerial economics, and ethical issues for managers.

    Applicants should have a bachelor’s or master’s degree (any field is acceptable). Applicants should have a 3.0 average in the last 60 hours of their bachelor’s degree or a cumulative 3.0 in a master’s degree. The GMAT/GRE are not required.

    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
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  11. #10

    University of Missouri

    Columbia , MO
    #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Missouri 2023 #1 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2023 #2 Best Research Universities in Missouri 2023 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    77%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    26K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1215/26

    Online Degrees

    MBA

    The University of Missouri online MBA is a 100% online program designed with working professionals in mind. It consists of 45 credit hours with an estimated cost of $38,000 for the whole program. Courses start in August, October, January, and March.

    The MBA can be completed in 3-4 semesters with a typical workload of 2-5 classes per semester. Course offerings include accounting for managers, managerial finance, managerial marketing, business ethics and leadership, and global business environment. Courses are asynchronous with 12 hours of core business foundations courses, 15 credits of professional skills and competencies, 12-15 credits from a business graduate certificate, and 3-6 credits of electives.

    Applicants must have a completed bachelor’s degree (in any field) with a 3.0 GPA in the last 60 hours of undergraduate work and any work beyond the undergraduate level.

    The GRE/GMAT and professional letters of recommendation are not required.

    • GMAT not required
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
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  13. #11

    University of Massachusetts Amherst

    Amherst , MA
    #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Massachusetts Ranked for Students in 2023 #1 Best Public Colleges in Massachusetts 2023 #6 Best Colleges in Massachusetts 2023 #6 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    66%

    Graduation

    84%

    Student body

    30K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1295/29

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  15. #13

    Florida State University

    Tallahassee , FL
    #12 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2023 #24 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2023 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2023 #2 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    37%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    41K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1285/29

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
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  17. #15

    University of Kentucky

    Lexington , KY
    #14 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023 #1 Best Public Colleges in Kentucky 2023 #1 Best Grad Schools in Kentucky 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    94%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    25K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/25

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
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  19. #16

    North Carolina State University

    Raleigh , NC
    #2 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2023 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2023 #3 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2023 #3 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    47%

    Graduation

    84%

    Student body

    31K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1320/29

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration
    • GMAT not required
    • Required Credits: 12
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
    MBAE in Biological And Agricultural Engineering
    • GMAT not required
    • Required Credits: 12
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  20. #17

    Baylor University

    Waco , TX
    #1 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2023 #4 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees #10 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2023 #2 Best Christian Colleges in Texas 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $50K

    Acceptance

    57%

    Graduation

    82%

    Student body

    18K

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • General
    • Cyber Security
    • Executive Communication
    • Marketing
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion time: 2.5-3.5 years
    • Format: Online
    • GMAT not required
    • Program link
    Compare school
  22. #19

    Wayne State University

    Detroit , MI
    #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023 #3 Best Colleges in Michigan 2023 #3 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2023 #3 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    63%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    20K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1100/23

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Accounting systems
    • Entrepreneurship and innovation
    • Digital/Business Analytics
    • Finance
    • Financial accounting
    • Healthcare Supply Chain Management
    • Global supply chain management
    • Human resources
    • Information systems management
    • International business
    • Required Credits: 117
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
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  23. #20

    University of Nebraska–Lincoln

    Lincoln , NE
    #1 Best Public Colleges in Nebraska 2023 #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023 #1 Best Grad Schools in Nebraska 2023 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Nebraska 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    81%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    22K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1215/25

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Finance
    • Supply Chain Management
    • Business Analytics
    • Marketing
    • International Business
    • GMAT not required
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
    Compare school
  25. #21

    Babson College

    Wellesley , MA
    #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2023 #14 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2023 with No GMAT Required #23 Best Online Master's in Management
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $55K

    Acceptance

    25%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1360/29

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 45
    • Completion time: 18 months
    • Format: Online
    • GMAT not required
    • Program link
    Compare school
  27. #23

    Texas Tech University

    Lubbock , TX
    #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Texas 2023 #4 Best Public Colleges in Texas 2023 #7 Best Research Universities in Texas 2023 #7 Best Grad Schools In Texas 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    36K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1155/24

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 42
    • Completion time: 2.5-3.5 years
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
    Compare school
  29. #25

    University of Louisville

    Louisville , KY
    #2 Best Public Colleges in Kentucky 2023 #2 Best Grad Schools in Kentucky 2023 #2 Best Colleges in Kentucky 2023 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Kentucky 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    17K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1160/24

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 45
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
    Compare school
  34. #29

    University of North Texas

    Denton , TX
    #6 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2023 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Texas 2023 #6 Best Public Colleges in Texas 2023 #9 Best Research Universities in Texas 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    81%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    36K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1145/23

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Marketing
    • Marketing Analytics
    • Org. Behavior & Human Resource Mgmt.
    • Strategic Management
    • Supply Chain Analytics
    • Supply Chain Management
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
    Compare school
  36. #30

    Florida International University

    Miami , FL
    #4 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2023 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2023 #5 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2023 #6 Best Research Universities in Florida 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    64%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    49K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1185/26

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Healthcare
    • GMAT not required
    • Required Credits: 42
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
    Compare school
  38. #32

    University of Memphis

    Memphis , TN
    #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #2 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023 #3 Best Colleges in Tennessee 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    17K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1095/22

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
    Compare school
  45. #38

    University of Alabama at Birmingham

    Birmingham , AL
    #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023 #3 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2023 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama 2023 #3 Best Research Universities in Alabama 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    89%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    19K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1209/26

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Finance
    • Management Information Systems
    • Marketing
    • Health Services
    • or Entrepreneurship
    • Required Credits: 30-39
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
    Compare school
  48. #40

    Stetson University

    DeLand , FL
    #2 Best Small Colleges in Florida 2023 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Florida 2023 #5 Best Private Colleges in Florida 2023 #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Florida
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $51K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    4K

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Finance
    • Accounting
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
    MBA-MHA in Business and Health Administration
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    JD-MBA in Business and Law
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  55. #46

    Drake University

    Des Moines , IA
    #2 Best Small Colleges in Iowa 2023 #2 Best Private Colleges in Iowa 2023 #3 Best Grad Schools Iowa 2023 #3 Best Research Universities in Iowa 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $46K

    Acceptance

    69%

    Graduation

    78%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1225/26

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Healthcare
    • Business Analytics
    • Individualized
    • combine courses from MBA
    • MPA and Master of Communication
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
    MBA in Business Analytics
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
    Compare school
  57. #48

    Golden Gate University

    San Francisco , CA
    #6 Best Small Colleges in California 2023 #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in California 2023 #2 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs #2 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Student body

    2K

    Online Degrees

    MBA in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Accounting
    • Adaptive Leadership
    • Business Analytics
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Finance
    • General
    • Global Supply Chain Management
    • Human Resource Management
    • IT Management
    • Juris Doctor (Joint Degree)
    • Marketing
    • Project Management
    • Public Administration
    • Required Credits: 54
    • Completion time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online
    • Program link
    eMBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
Back to Top

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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