Best Online MBA Programs
Students seeking a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree are typically mature and focused. They’ll need to navigate many business degree options, identify core curriculum and choose specializations that map to their career goals. To streamline the process, the following guide sheds light on the major types of MBA degrees, specializations and career opportunities.
Best Online MBA Accredited Programs
Lehigh University
- Bethlehem, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Degree-seekers have access to a comprehensive academic catalog at Lehigh University, a private institution located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The school’s 14 online programs offer more flexibility than on-campus programs. School data shows that about 412 enrollees are studying online. One of the key benefits of a master’s delivered online is that it helps students manage multiple obligations like work and family life.
Enrollees receive preparation for higher-level careers with the FLEX MBA’s advanced curriculum. They can take advantage of services available to all learners, such as academic and career advising. Faculty can work with students to set professional goals and define ways to achieve them.
Applicants can contact the MBA program for more information about how to apply to the school and qualify for financial aid.
Lehigh University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 64
Online Master's Programs: 13
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $27,000
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
6%
$27,000
93%
$27,000
- Acceptance Rate
- 32%
- Students Enrolled
- 6,953
- Institution Type
- Private
University of Denver
- Denver, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of Denver, a private institution located in Colorado, uses different modalities to bring top-ranked programs to learners. The school’s 23 online programs offer more flexibility than on-campus programs. Currently, 3,623 learners enroll in distance education programs. Students are often drawn to online master’s programs because of the flexibility.
Enrollees receive instruction from MBA@Denver faculty who excel at teaching online programs. Graduate students complete at least 60 credits in this master's curriculum. All distance learners can take advantage of career services and academic advising opportunities. Many students work with faculty to plan their careers, using their expertise as a resource even in matters like networking.
Application requirements are accessible online or by contacting the business department.
University of Denver at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 91
Online Master's Programs: 16
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $51,336
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
Accepts Transfer Credits: Accepted
28%
$51,336
85%
$51,336
- Acceptance Rate
- 59%
- Students Enrolled
- 12,931
- Institution Type
- Private
Syracuse University
- Syracuse, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Syracuse University, located in New York, is a private institution that uses flexible program delivery to meet the needs of busy learners. The school’s 40 online programs highlight a commitment to distance learners and their needs. School information shows an enrollment of 3,353 online learners. These online learners appreciate the flexibility of a master’s degree.
The online master's in business administration program provides advanced training in the field. Distance learners have access to academic advising and career services just like their on-campus peers. Many students rely on faculty mentorship and industry connections to help advance their careers.
Prospective applicants can receive more information about the business administration program, the application process, and financial aid requirements by contacting the school.
Syracuse University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 123
Online Master's Programs: 16
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $38,880
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
15%
$38,880
92%
$38,880
- Acceptance Rate
- 44%
- Students Enrolled
- 22,850
- Institution Type
- Private
Boston University
- Boston, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Alternatives to Boston University’s on-campus programs on the Massachusetts campus draw many learners to the private institution. The school’s 33 online programs highlight a commitment to distance learners and their needs. These programs have attracted 3,205 enrollees who choose to study exclusively online. These programs are attractive because grad students can earn a master's degree entirely online.
Enrollees receive the same advanced career preparation that an on-campus MBA program will deliver. They can take advantage of services available to all learners, such as academic and career advising. Faculty can work with students to set professional goals and define ways to achieve them.
To apply to this business administration program, contact the school or department for more information about application requirements and financial aid opportunities.
Boston University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 170
Online Master's Programs: 24
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $54,720
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
10%
$54,720
94%
$54,720
- Acceptance Rate
- 19%
- Students Enrolled
- 33,720
- Institution Type
- Private
Harvard University
- Cambridge, MA
- 4 year
- Campus
- Accredited
Harvard University, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a private institution that makes flexible programming one of its strengths. According to school information, about 5,815 enrollees choose to study online. Online master’s degrees are great for full-time workers and others who want to advance their education without making unnecessary sacrifices.
The curriculum of this online MBA is the same as a similar program delivered on campus. The institution supports distance learners with academic advising and career services. Faculty can work with students to set professional goals and define ways to achieve them.
Prospective applicants can receive more information about the MBA program, application requirements, and financial aid requirements by contacting the school.
Harvard University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 148
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 7-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $48,008
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
18%
$48,008
97%
$48,008
- Acceptance Rate
- 5%
- Students Enrolled
- 31,655
- Institution Type
- Private
New York University
- New York, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
New York University, a private institution, uses different modalities to bring top-ranked programs to learners. This is a good school for graduate students who prefer remote learning, with 48 online programs now available. Currently, 5,468 learners enroll in distance education programs. Students are drawn to online master’s programs because of the flexibility.
Enrollees receive instruction from business faculty who are skilled in teaching courses online. Support for the school’s MBA program enrollees include access to academic and financial advising and career services. Faculty and other staff can provide mentorship and career development opportunities that are integral for student success.
Prospective applicants can receive more information about the MBA program, the application process, and financial aid requirements by contacting the school.
New York University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 201
Online Master's Programs: 28
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $33,408
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
10%
$33,408
94%
$33,408
- Acceptance Rate
- 16%
- Students Enrolled
- 52,885
- Institution Type
- Private
Arizona State University
- Tempe, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Arizona State University, located in Tempe, is a public institution that uses flexible program delivery to meet the needs of busy learners. The school’s online MBA program highlights a commitment to distance learners and their needs. Currently, 24,895 learners enroll in distance education programs. A master’s degree delivered online can help many professionals keep their jobs, and that is why virtual learning is so popular.
Enrollees do not sacrifice academic rigor by completing this online MBA. The institution supports distance learners with services such as academic advising and career assistance. Faculty and other staff can provide mentorship and career development opportunities that are integral for student success.
The school or program can provide prospective enrollees with application information for the degree.
Arizona State University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 104
Online Master's Programs: 1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $11,720
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
47%
$11,720
88%
$26,160
- Acceptance Rate
- 86%
- Students Enrolled
- 53,286
- Institution Type
- Public
Drexel University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Drexel University, a private institution, enrolls degree-seekers who want flexible alternatives to in-person sessions on the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, campus. This is a good school for graduate students who prefer remote learning, with 89 online programs now available. Currently, 9,300 online learners use this format to earn their degrees. Technological advancements have made it unnecessary to quit your job or neglect other obligations in order to earn a master’s.
The MBA curriculum explores advanced concepts in business. Online students can take advantage of services available to all learners such as academic and career advising. Faculty and other staff can provide mentorship and career development opportunities that are integral for student success.
Prospective applicants can contact the business program for additional information on admission requirements and financial aid opportunities.
Drexel University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 119
Online Master's Programs: 39
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $35,181
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
38%
$35,181
89%
$35,181
- Acceptance Rate
- 75%
- Students Enrolled
- 24,205
- Institution Type
- Private
Pace University
- New York, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Pace University, a private institution located in New York City, offers programs delivered using different modalities to meet the needs of today’s learners. Distance learners can choose from six online programs in addition to those available on campus. Presently, 5,723 enrollees choose online learning as their preferred format. The promise of a fully online master’s degree is enticing to many students.
The MBA curriculum explores advanced concepts in business. A rigorous curriculum is blended with equally important services such as career and academic advising. Faculty mentors and career advisors can play key roles in helping students plan their careers.
The school can guide prospective applicants on how to apply to the program and qualify for financial aid opportunities.
Pace University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 48
Online Master's Programs: 4
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $31,320
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
43%
$31,320
78%
$31,320
- Acceptance Rate
- 79%
- Students Enrolled
- 13,395
- Institution Type
- Private
Oklahoma State University
- Stillwater, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Oklahoma State University, located in Stillwater, is a public institution that uses flexible program delivery to meet the needs of busy learners. In addition to on-campus programs, the school offers 59 online programs. Approximately 10,182 enrollees are classified as online learners. These online learners appreciate the flexibility of a master’s degree.
The online MBA curriculum explores advanced concepts in business management. All distance learners can take advantage of career services and academic advising opportunities. Many students rely on faculty mentorship and industry connections to help advance their careers.
Prospective applicants can contact the MBA program for additional information on admission requirements and financial aid opportunities.
Oklahoma State University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 76
Online Master's Programs: 25
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $5,531
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
42%
$ 5,531
83%
$21,034
- Acceptance Rate
- 70%
- Students Enrolled
- 24,079
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Houston-Victoria
- Victoria, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of Houston-Victoria is a public institution with a comprehensive catalog delivered from its campus in Texas. The school’s 11 online programs offer more flexibility than on-campus programs. School information shows an enrollment of 3,753 online learners. The online learning platform allows students to earn a master’s without giving up other important obligations.
The curriculum of this online MBA is the same as a similar program delivered on campus. Distance learners receive additional support through departments such as academic advising and career services. Many students work with faculty to plan their careers, using their expertise as a resource even in matters like networking.
Application and financial aid requirements are available online or by contacting the program department.
University of Houston-Victoria at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 17
Online Master's Programs: 9
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $6,338
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
83%
$ 6,338
61%
$13,934
- Acceptance Rate
- 56%
- Students Enrolled
- 4,506
- Institution Type
- Public
Hofstra University
- Hempstead, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Graduate students can choose from a variety of programs offered at Hofstra University, a private institution located in Hempstead, New York. The school has developed eight degrees that students can earn from a distance. Online learning is an option chosen by 1,270 enrollees, according to school information. These programs are attractive because grad students can earn a master's degree entirely online.
Enrollees receive instruction from MBA faculty who excel at teaching online programs. Career services and academic advising are made available to all distance learners. Students can work with faculty on other issues, such as professional development and career advancement.
Prospective applicants can receive more information about the MBA program, application materials, and financial aid requirements by contacting the school.
Hofstra University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 95
Online Master's Programs: 5
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $25,164
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
12%
$25,164
83%
$25,164
- Acceptance Rate
- 68%
- Students Enrolled
- 10,804
- Institution Type
- Private
Suffolk University
- Boston, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Suffolk University, a private institution, teaches degree-seekers from its campus in Boston, Massachusetts. The school has developed four degrees that students can earn from a distance. School data shows that about 917 enrollees are studying online. At the college, graduate students can earn a master's degree in a fully remote format.
The curriculum of this online MBA program is the same as a similar program delivered on campus. The institution supports distance learners with academic advising and career services. Many students rely on faculty and other staff for assistance helping them transition into the workplace.
The application process is available on the school's website, as is information about how to qualify for financial aid opportunities.
Suffolk University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 39
Online Master's Programs: 4
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $39,267
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
13%
$39,267
77%
$39,267
- Acceptance Rate
- 84%
- Students Enrolled
- 7,169
- Institution Type
- Private
University of Colorado Denver
- Denver, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of Colorado Denver, a public institution, uses different modalities to bring top-ranked programs to learners. Distance learners can choose from 34 online programs in addition to those available on campus. According to school information, about 7,637 enrollees choose to study online. The online learning platform allows students to earn a master’s without giving up other important obligations.
Enrollees receive preparation for higher-level careers with the MBA program’s advanced curriculum. Online students can take advantage of services available to all learners, such as academic and career advising. Faculty mentors and career advisors can play key roles in helping students plan their careers.
Applicants can contact the MBA program for more information about how to apply to the school and qualify for financial aid.
University of Colorado Denver at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 70
Online Master's Programs: 16
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $6,786
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
31%
$ 6,786
70%
$22,590
- Acceptance Rate
- 67%
- Students Enrolled
- 24,910
- Institution Type
- Public
Penn State World Campus
- University Park, PA
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
Penn State World Campus, a public institution, enrolls degree-seekers who want flexible learning alternatives to in-person sessions. The school’s 207 online programs offer more flexibility than on-campus programs. The online learning platform allows students to earn a master’s without giving up other important obligations.
The MBA program builds on a bachelor’s degree with advanced training in business management. Distance learners have access to academic advising and career services, just like their on-campus peers. Students can work with faculty on other issues, such as professional development and career advancement.
Details about the application process is available on the school's website, as is information about how to qualify for financial aid opportunities.
Penn State World Campus at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 52
Online Master's Programs: 52
Graduate Tuition Rate: $21,682
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
N/A
$21,682
N/A
$21,682
- Acceptance Rate
- 76%
- Students Enrolled
- 0
- Institution Type
- Public
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Chapel Hill, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
A public institution, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers a variety of degrees on campus and through remote learning. The school’s 25 online programs highlight a commitment to distance learners and their needs. Online learning is an option chosen by 3,721 enrollees, according to school information. These programs are attractive because graduate students can earn a master's degree entirely online.
The curriculum of this online MBA program is the same as a similar option delivered on campus. To earn this degree, students will need to complete 62 credits. All distance learners can take advantage of career services and academic advising opportunities. Students can work with faculty on other issues, such as professional development and career advancement.
The school can provide more information about the MBA program, including how to apply and qualify for financial aid opportunities.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 84
Online Master's Programs: 14
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $10,552
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
12%
$10,552
96%
$28,278
- Acceptance Rate
- 23%
- Students Enrolled
- 29,877
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Arkansas
- Fayetteville, AR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
From its campus in Fayetteville, the University of Arkansas teaches degree-seekers as a public institution. Distance learners can choose from 39 online programs in addition to those available on campus. Currently, 8,109 learners enroll in distance education programs. At the college, graduate students can earn a master's degree in a fully remote format.
The instructors teaching the executive MBA are held to the highest professional and instructional standards, just as their on-campus peers. All distance learners can take advantage of career services and academic advising opportunities. Faculty and other staff can provide mentorship and career development opportunities that are integral to student success.
Application and financial aid requirements are available online or by contacting the program department.
University of Arkansas at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 79
Online Master's Programs: 19
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $7,752
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
29%
$ 7,752
84%
$21,032
- Acceptance Rate
- 77%
- Students Enrolled
- 27,559
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Tennessee at Martin
- Martin, TN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Graduate students can choose from a variety of programs offered at the University of Tennessee at Martin, a public institution. The school’s 12 online programs highlight a commitment to distance learners and their needs. School data shows an enrollment of 2,147 online learners. A master’s degree delivered online can help many professionals keep their jobs, and that is why virtual learning is so popular.
The MBA program builds on the bachelor’s degree with advanced training in business management. The institution supports distance learners with academic advising and career services. By working with faculty mentors and career advisors, students can prepare for successful professional lives after college.
Prospective applicants can contact the MBA program for more information about application requirements and to learn how to apply for financial aid.
University of Tennessee at Martin at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 7
Online Master's Programs: 6
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $9,096
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
29%
$ 9,096
75%
$15,136
- Acceptance Rate
- 64%
- Students Enrolled
- 7,280
- Institution Type
- Public
Temple University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
From its campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Temple University teaches degree-seekers as a public institution. Students can pick from 35 online programs if they do not want in-person sessions. Online learning is an option chosen by 8,041 enrollees, according to school information. At the college, grad students can earn a master's degree in a fully remote format.
The online MBA program provides advanced training in business management. All distance learners can take advantage of career services and academic advising opportunities. Students can work with faculty mentors and career advisors to set professional goals.
Prospective applicants can contact the MBA program for more information about application requirements and details about how to apply for financial aid.
Temple University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 143
Online Master's Programs: 10
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $16,956
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
21%
$16,956
89%
$23,346
- Acceptance Rate
- 60%
- Students Enrolled
- 38,794
- Institution Type
- Public
Sam Houston State University
- Huntsville, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
From its campus in Huntsville, Texas, Sam Houston State University teaches degree-seekers as a public institution. The school offers 43 online programs, in addition to on-campus degrees. School data shows an enrollment of 11,475 online learners. At the college, grad students can earn a master's degree in a fully remote format.
Enrollees do not sacrifice academic rigor by completing this master of business administration online. Career services and academic advising are made available to all distance learners. Many students rely on faculty mentorship and industry connections to help advance their careers.
Prospective applicants can receive more information about the MBA program, application materials, and financial aid requirements by contacting the school.
Sam Houston State University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 50
Online Master's Programs: 27
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $5,765
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
53%
$ 5,765
75%
$13,361
- Acceptance Rate
- 83%
- Students Enrolled
- 21,558
- Institution Type
- Public
Why Accreditation Matters for MBA Programs
Colleges and universities get evaluated by independent reviewers to ensure quality. This process, called accreditation, checks if they meet set standards. Degrees from unaccredited schools may not be widely accepted, and you might not be eligible for federal financial aid.
There are two types of accreditation: institutional and programmatic. Institutional accreditation evaluates the entire institution, while programmatic accreditation focuses on specific degree programs or departments, like business or nursing.
Studying for an On-Campus or Online MBA Degree
The wide variety of fields that hire MBA graduates is matched by the myriad of business administration programs available in full-time, part-time, executive and online formats. The selection of accredited business schools, colleges and universities offering MBA programs allows students to enroll in a program that accommodates work, family and financial obligations. Below are the main options:
Studying for an Online MBA Degree
Because of their flexible schedules and 24/7 access, online MBA degree programs have risen in popularity among working professionals and students who cannot travel to a campus program. Distance learning programs typically offer fine-tuned curriculum on business theory and leadership that can be immediately utilized in the workplace. Some of the most popular MBA specializations include health care, marketing, finance, accounting, project management, entrepreneurship and human resources.
Online MBA schools provide students with full-time, part-time and executive study options. Distance learners have round-the-clock access to courses and research libraries. Class lectures may be delivered via streaming multimedia, Skype, conference calls, Adobe Connect or other communication tools. Depending on the program, online students also may use digital chat rooms, threaded emails and instant messaging to work with instructors and peers.
Online MBA Program Highlights
An online master’s of business administration consists of 45 to 60 credits, though some programs allow students to waive certain courses based on prior educational background or work experience.
Designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to analyze business trends and develop effective business strategies, an online MBA degree covers coursework in accounting, economics, ethics, marketing, strategic management, data analysis, financial reporting and leadership. Students can also specialize in a specific area, such as Internet marketing, health administration, financial management, international business or entrepreneurship. Most programs culminate in a capstone or thesis project.
Much of the coursework can be completed online, but some schools may require a certain number of in-person meetings for collaborative projects. Many online MBA programs are offered as a cohort, so students have the benefit of learning alongside the same group of peers from beginning to end. Online students communicate regularly with peers and instructors via Skype, email and live chat, ensuring that the online MBA degree matches the rigorous standards of the traditional on-campus program.
Online MBA Degree Curriculum
MBA coursework varies by degree program, school and business specialization. Students should evaluate prospective schools with an eye toward their career objectives. Academic and career planning advisers can aid in the search for the appropriate school and degree. Here is a sampling of the kinds of courses offered in each of the online MBA degree specializations:
| COURSE NAME | OVERVIEW |
|---|---|
| Entrepreneurship | Focuses on the factors of launching a successful business, including tax laws, venture capital, business plans, human resources and marketing. |
| Supply Chain Management | Explores the inter-connectedness of strategic project planning, business analysis, change management and logistics. |
| Accounting for Managers | Reviews the principles of auditing and assessment, projections, taxation and reporting. |
| Technology Management | Provides an understanding the information backbone and systems that support enterprise-level transactions, with an emphasis on data security. |
What Can I Do With an MBA Degree
The Masters of Business Administration (MBA) degree has become a preferred college credential among recruiters for management roles. Management and leadership professionals with MBA degrees hold key positions in corporate, non-profit and governmental organizations. Some take mid-management roles within large organizations, directing departments in human resources, finance, information technology, marketing communications, supply chain, change management and planning.
The wide variety of fields that hire MBA graduates is matched by the multiplicity of business administration programs available in full-time, part-time, executive and online formats. The selection of accredited business schools, colleges and universities offering MBA programs allows students to enroll in a program that seamlessly plugs into the hectic realities of working lives, family commitments and checkbooks. Below are some solid career options for those who have earned a degree from an online MBA school:
Compensation and benefits managers oversee a company’s benefits policies and advise on compensation rates. They are charged with either designing new policies or modifying existing ones so that the company remains up-to-date and compliant with legal requirements, and also competitive with the rest of the business world. These managers also fulfill written requirements requested by the government, for example, reports on the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA).
- Median Salary (2024): $140,360
- Job Outlook (2023-2033): 2%
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s
