Enrolling in an online MBA program with no GMAT requirement makes sense for students who plan on seeking employment at companies that do not hire based on GMAT scores.
The GMAT — or Graduate Management Admission Test — is a standardized, multiple-choice exam that many MBA programs use.
Some schools also accept the GRE — or the Graduate Record Examination. The biggest difference between these two tests is that the GRE is a general aptitude test for all disciplines, whereas the GMAT applies specifically to graduate-level business schools. The GRE includes analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, and analytical reasoning components, while the GMAT includes sections in analytical writing and integrated, quantitative, and verbal reasoning.
Many reputable colleges and universities offering online MBA programs and executive MBA programs have recently dispensed with the GMAT/GRE requirement, preferring instead to focus on other indicators of success. Read on to learn more about top programs that do not require GMAT or GRE scores.
Why Are Schools Waiving or Not Requiring the GMAT?
Given that colleges and universities have used GMAT and GRE scores for decades to evaluate applicants, the fact that so many schools have eliminated testing in recent years may come as a surprise.
Scoring well on the GMAT shows that you can successfully learn how to ace an exam, but it does not necessarily predict how well you can perform in classes or whether you can become an effective business manager after graduation. It cannot gauge your interpersonal and networking skills or many other important abilities required to succeed in the business world. As such, it makes sense for MBA programs to consider other indicators to evaluate applicants.
Admission Requirements in Place of GMAT Scores
In the absence of GMAT scores, what do online MBA program administrators look for in potential candidates? Below, we examine some of the top requirements for online MBA programs that do not ask for GMAT scores.
Work Experience: Work experience shows admissions offices how a candidate handles themselves in professional settings and whether they have progressed in their careers. Most programs require 2-8 years of professional work experience.
Advanced Degrees: Students who already successfully navigated the rigors of graduate school are more likely to succeed in an MBA program. If you already have a master's degree or doctorate, you can often bypass GMAT requirements.
GPA: A high GPA demonstrates that you can handle tough classes without letting your grades suffer. Many schools require a 3.0-3.5 GPA to waive GMAT requirements.
Professional Licensure: Many business-related positions require licensure and/or certification (e.g., CFA, CPA, Six Sigma) to practice. Licensure demonstrates that candidates possess the skills and qualifications needed to pass industry exams. Some schools may use existing licenses/certifications to determine whether to waive GMAT scores.
Letters of Recommendation: Letters of recommendation can help an admissions office decide whether or not to admit a student without GMAT scores. Choose recommenders who can speak well about your abilities and your potential.
Essay or Personal Statement: The essay or personal statement provides you with a chance to demonstrate — in your own words — why you deserve a place in the program and how you plan to ensure your success. Use this document to highlight academic and professional accomplishments and clearly outline how you hope to use your MBA in meaningful ways.
Choosing a Quality Online MBA Program
When evaluating an online MBA program with no GMAT requirement, consider several degree components before making your final choice.
Curriculum
The curricula of online MBA programs with no GMAT requirements can vary substantially, so research your top schools carefully before committing. Students entering straight from undergraduate studies may prefer programs with an internship component to gain practical experience, while students with work experience may want a program without this requirement.
Concentration Availability
Many online MBA programs with no GMAT requirement allow students to pursue a concentration to develop specialized knowledge. Find the program that offers the best options for your career aspirations. Common concentrations include entrepreneurship, healthcare management, management, and international business.
Graduation Rates and Job Placement Rates
If a program suffers from a low graduation rate, many learners may transfer out of that program to a different school. If job placement rates are low, employers may believe that program graduates are not prepared for the workforce.
Accreditation
Accreditation demonstrates that the school and/or program went through a rigorous vetting process. Accreditation also indicates that the school and/or program adequately supports learners while they are enrolled, preparing graduates to enter the workforce.
Type of Program
MBA programs with no GMAT required are available in many different formats. Some learners may prefer a degree taught entirely online, while others may be attracted to a hybrid or blended learning format. Still others may enjoy taking part in weekend intensives several times over the course of the degree.
Affordability
Student loan debt totaled nearly $1.8 trillion as of February 2020, making affordability an important component to consider. Speak with each program's admissions department about institutional and departmental scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships.
Faculty
Make sure that your chosen program's faculty includes professors who specialize in your area of interest.
Accreditation for Online MBA Programs With No GMAT Requirements
Enrolling in programs that lack accreditation can make it difficult/impossible for you to receive federal student aid, transfer credits, apply for licensure, and/or find a job. Schools can receive accreditation from one of several regional bodies. These bodies assess colleges and universities to ensure they provide meaningful support services, relevant curricula, and qualified faculty. Use the U.S. Department of Education's Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs to make sure your chosen school is accredited.
Earning an online MBA can help you command a high salary, even right after graduation. According to the Business School Hiring Report compiled by the Graduate Management Admission Council, the median annual starting salary of MBA-holders was $115,000 in 2019. This number should increase for 2020, as approximately 56% of hiring companies stated they planned to increase starting salaries for MBA graduates.
While many international companies now gravitate toward master's in management graduates (69% of Asian companies and 67% of European companies), the MBA remains popular for U.S.-based hiring managers. This holds true for candidates who complete an MBA outside of North America, with approximately 48% of U.S.-based employers stating a willingness to hire international candidates.
Salary Opportunities for MBA Graduates
If you have ever wondered what you can do with a business degree, the table below describes some of the most popular jobs and industries for online MBA graduates.
Median Salary of MBA Graduates, by Job Function
Job Function
Median Base Salary
Consulting
$135,000
Financial/Accounting
$125,000
Health Care
$115,000
Technology
$115,000
Manufacturing
$105,000
Nonprofit/Government
$65,000
Products/Services
$105,000
If You Need to Take the GMAT or GRE
Even though many MBA programs no longer require applicants to take the GMAT or GRE, some students may feel that top grades on these exams can help bolster their chances of being admitted in the absence of other strong indicators. If your undergraduate GPA was low or if you lack work experience, an impressive GMAT score can help you earn admission.
Preparing for the GMAT and GRE exams can feel overwhelming, but plenty of GMAT and GRE prep resources can help you excel.
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
Founded in 1867 as the flagship institution of the University of Illinois education system, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign serves over 50,000 learners each year. A public, land-grant research institution, U of I offers over 150 programs of study, including an online master of business administration.
Administered by U of I's College of Business, this online MBA requires 72 credits and focuses on developing the skills necessary to solve contemporary business problems. The program offers specializations in the following areas:
Strategic Leadership and Management
Managerial Economics and Business Analysis
Value Chain Management
Financial Management
Global Challenges in Business
Innovation: From Creativity to Entrepreneurship
Digital Marketing
Business Analytics
The curriculum teaches learners how to effectively work with and manage people in a collaborative setting. Courses in economics, accounting, and corporate finance provide degree-seekers with the technical knowledge necessary to succeed in a fast-paced, competitive work environment.
Applicants need a relevant bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA and at least three years of business-related professional experience. Applications must include an essay and three letters of recommendation. At least one of these letters must come from a former supervisor.
Howard University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Its business school holds programmatic accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
About this school
Established in 1867, Howard University is a private, historically black university that operates 13 schools and colleges. Howard offers diverse undergraduate and graduate programs for on-campus and online learners, including a fully online executive master of business administration.
Administered by the university's School of Business, the program requires 48 credits, including general instruction and a strategic management capstone component. Courses cover topics such as marketing, corporate communication, entrepreneurship, and organizational behavior.
Learners interested in this online MBA need a relevant bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a competitive GPA. The program also recommends that applicants possess at least five years of professional experience in a management or senior-level role. Applications must include official transcripts, a statement of interest, a current resume or CV, and three letters of recommendation.
Ohio University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Its College of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
About this school
Chartered in 1787, Ohio University is the oldest higher learning institution in the state. The school offers a variety of master's programs, including an online master of business administration. Ideal for busy learners and working professionals, this flexible MBA program has no GMAT requirement and combines fundamental business knowledge with practical applications.
Housed within OU's College of Business, the program covers topics like entrepreneurial innovation, strategic leadership, and professional development. Most degree-seekers complete the 35-credit program in two years, often obtaining employment offers while in the program. Students pursuing this online MBA can choose from several concentrations, tailoring the degree to match their goals and interests. Options include:
Business Analytics
Finance
Operations and Supply Chain Management
Strategic Selling and Sales Leadership
Executive Management
Business Venturing and Entrepreneurship
Accounting
Core courses cover topics such as descriptive analytics, operational management, information systems, and managerial finance. All learners must attend one on-campus, weekend-long leadership development workshop prior to graduation.
The University of Scranton is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Its online MBA program holds programmatic accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
About this school
A Jesuit institution established in 1888, the University of Scranton promotes freedom of inquiry and personal development through transformative learning experiences. The school maintains three colleges and serves nearly 6,000 learners each year through over 85 programs of study. Scranton's School of Management offers an online master of business administration that comprises 36 credits and takes two years of full-time study to complete.
The program uses a flex curriculum that encourages personalization. Degree-seekers can swap core courses for advanced electives depending on their current competencies and professional aspirations. The program also offers eight specializations:
Accounting
Business Analytics
Enterprise Resource Planning
Finance
Healthcare Management
Human Resources Management
International Business
Operations Management
Applicants need a relevant bachelor's degree and at least three years of supervisory work experience. Applications must include a current resume, a statement of intent, and three letters of reference. Some applicants may need to submit a written response to a contemporary business case study.
Norwich University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Its MBA program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
About this school
Established in 1819, Norwich University is the oldest private military college in the country. The school offers diverse undergraduate and graduate degrees, including an online master of business administration that prepares learners for success in competitive, fast-paced business environments.
Expert faculty administer all instruction in this 36-credit program through interactive learning technologies. Classes are delivered through 11-week sessions and participants graduate in 18 months, on average. Learners can choose from eight concentrations:
General MBA
Energy Management
Organizational Leadership
Supply Chain Management
Construction Management
Finance
Project Management
Technology Management
The core curriculum covers key business management concepts and concludes with an independent research project. Degree-seekers must travel to campus for a weeklong culminating experience that integrates theory and practice.
Applicants to this MBA program with no GMAT requirement need a relevant bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA. They must also submit a current resume, official academic transcripts, and a letter of intent.
The Sage Colleges is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Its School of Management is accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE).
About this school
A private institution composed of three campuses across upstate New York, The Sage Colleges promotes personal development and academic achievement. Established in 1916, the school focuses on practical education, offering a variety of academic and professional degrees in art and design, education, health and natural sciences, law, and the performing arts. Distance learners can advance their careers by earning the school's online master of business administration.
Offered through its School of Management, this MBA track requires 42 credits but no GMAT scores. Graduates can pursue high-level careers in business, government, healthcare, and nonprofit areas. The program offers two specializations:
Human Resource Management
Marketing
In addition to these concentrations, the program features specialized elective courses. Core courses include managerial economics, research design, financial management, executive decision-making, and ethical leadership. Designed with working professionals in mind, the program combines technical knowledge with practitioner-oriented study.
Applicants must submit a professional resume, two recommendation letters, a career goals essay, and official academic transcripts. Applicants without a business or management background may need to complete certain course prerequisites.
Messiah College is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Its business programs hold specialized accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
About this school
Founded in 1909 by the Brethren in Christ Church, Messiah College prepares learners for lives of service, leadership, and reconciliation. A private institution located along the edges of the Michaux State Forest, Messiah hosts students on a scenic, 471-acre suburban campus and online. Messiah's School of Graduate Studies also offers a fully online master of business administration for recent graduates and experienced professionals.
This 36-credit program offers six- and eight-week courses, allowing degree-seekers to graduate within two years. Courses cover topics like business strategy, entrepreneurship, and managerial accounting. Students can choose from five specializations:
Dietetics
Digital Marketing
Management
Social Entrepreneurship
Strategic Leadership
Applicants need an accredited bachelor's degree with a competitive GPA. They must also submit a current resume, a personal statement, and at least one recommendation highlighting their academic aptitude and professional experience.
Endicott College is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
About this school
Established in 1939 as a two-year women's college, Endicott College boasts an entrepreneurial spirit and a long history of intellectual growth. The school now administers coeducational programs in areas like education, science, nursing, and the liberal arts. Additionally, distance learners can advance their careers by earning the school's online master of business administration.
Offered through its School of Graduate and Professional Studies, this MBA program develops technical knowledge in current management trends, financial analysis, and quantitative decision-making. Students can graduate within 18 months. Core courses include operations management, human resources, business policy, and managerial economics. Degree-seekers can choose from 15 concentrations to tailor their degree:
Accounting
Entrepreneurship
Finance
General Management
Healthcare
Health Informatics
Hospitality/Hotel Management
Human Resources Management
Information Technology Management
International Business
Maritime Economics
Marketing
Nonprofit Management
Operations Management
Project Management
Applicants need a relevant bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. They must also submit transcripts, a personal statement, and two letters of recommendation (one academic and one professional). The application process may also require an interview.
Bethel University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Its online MBA program is a candidate for programmatic accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
About this school
Located in the heart of the Twin Cities, Bethel University maintains a commitment to excellence in leadership, scholarship, and service. A Christian liberal arts school, Bethel enrolls nearly 6,000 learners across over 100 programs of study each year. The school also offers a variety of online programs, including a master of business administration.
The 42-credit program prepares students for success through interactive instruction, peer networking, and career coaching. Learners can specialize their skills by pursuing one of the program's four concentrations:
Finance
Management
Strategy and Execution
Healthcare Administration
Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and at least two years of professional experience. They must also submit a current resume, a personal statement, and two professional references. The program may require applicants to participate in an interview.
Saint Joseph's College of Maine is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
About this school
A Roman Catholic liberal arts institution that was established in 1912, Saint Joseph's College of Maine values integrity, excellence, community, and respect. Founded by the Sisters of Mercy as a school for women, SJC now serves nearly 3,000 coeducational learners across 40 areas of study. The school's online master of business administration prepares credible and ethical business leaders for continued professional success.
This online MBA program has no GMAT requirement. The curriculum consists of 39-42 credits, which are offered in five 10-week sessions. Most learners complete the program in 18 months. Core courses include organizational dynamics, leadership and lifelong learning, and economic systems. The school also offers concentrations in the following areas:
Health Sector Management
Human Resources
Sport Administration
Financial Management
Training and Development
Accounting
Ethics in Business
Intercultural/Cross-cultural Studies
Quality and Continuous Improvement
Applicants need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution with a competitive GPA. Students must also submit a 750-word personal statement, a recent resume, and professional and academic references. Relevant work experience is preferable. Some applicants may need to satisfy course prerequisites.
Salve Regina University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Its MBA program is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
About this school
Chartered in 1934, Salve Regina University is a Catholic institution that is affiliated with the Sisters of Mercy. Salve confers a variety of online and on-campus degrees, including an online master of business administration.
The program includes 36 credits and students can access all content through flexible, interactive learning tools. The core curriculum covers business law, financial management, marketing, and creative problem-solving. Degree-seekers can pursue one of five specializations:
Cybersecurity Issues in Business
Nonprofit Management
Social Ventures
Entrepreneurial Enterprise
Healthcare Administration and Management
Learners acquire skills related to organizational behavior, accounting, and strategic policy, preparing for leadership roles.
Applicants need a relevant bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. They must also submit official academic transcripts, a personal statement, a current resume, and at least two professional letters of recommendation.
Baker University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Its business programs hold specialized accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
About this school
Baker University is a private liberal arts institution that is affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Founded in 1858, BU operates four schools and colleges that offer programs in nursing, education, science, and the arts. BU's School of Professional and Graduate Studies offers an online master of business administration that comprises 33 credits.
This online MBA track covers topics like principles of organizational management, executive leadership, accounting applications, and strategic planning. The program offers four specializations that allow students to tailor the degree to their goals and interests:
Finance
Healthcare Administration
Human Resources
Leadership and Organizational Change
After finishing core courses, students complete an integrative capstone project. Most learners graduate from the program in 18-20 months. Graduates can work as executives, managers, consultants, and business owners.
BU boasts a streamlined admissions process. Applicants with a relevant, accredited bachelor's degree need only complete an online application for consideration.
Concordia University Saint Paul is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
Founded in 1893 and operated by the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, Concordia University Saint Paul serves approximately 5,000 degree-seekers each year. The school offers diverse on-campus and online programs, including an online master of business administration that includes 36 credits.
The fully online program features seven-week courses without set log-in times, giving students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations. The curriculum blends theoretical and practical knowledge, covering topics like strategic decision-making, business analytics, and effective communication. The program offers two specializations:
Healthcare Compliance
Healthcare Management
In addition to standard courses, learners complete three one-credit seminars that integrate technical knowledge with practical applications.
Applicants to this online MBA program with no GMAT requirements need an accredited bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. They must also submit official transcripts and a personal statement outlining their academic background and professional goals.
California University of Pennsylvania is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Its MBA program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
About this school
A comprehensive public research institution established in 1852, California University of Pennsylvania promotes excellence in the liberal arts, science and technology, and professional studies. The school offers over 150 fields of study, including an online master of business administration.
This 36-credit program addresses the competitive and changing world of business in contemporary society. Part-time learners can complete the program in two years, while full-time students can graduate in one year or less. The program offers five concentrations:
Accounting
Applied Economics
Business Analytics
Healthcare Management
Management
The fully online program features flexible, asynchronous courses, allowing students to balance their studies with work and family obligations. Courses cover topics like quantitative research methods, corporate finance, international business, human resources, and marketing management.
Applicants need an accredited bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. They must also submit official academic transcripts and an optional personal essay. Applicants without formal business training may need to satisfy course prerequisites.
Fitchburg State University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Its MBA program holds accreditation from the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
About this school
Founded in 1894, Fitchburg State University integrates high-quality professional programs with strong science and liberal arts studies. A public institution, Fitchburg State confers undergraduate and graduate degrees in 25 academic disciplines. Students interested in a management-oriented business education can pursue a fully online master of business administration in management.
This 30-credit program covers core business topics like finance, accounting, human resources, and marketing. Students take courses such as strategic management, management theory and process, economic theory, and organizational behavior.
The school charges a flat-rate tuition per course. Applicants must possess an accredited bachelor's degree and submit a professional resume and transcripts indicating a minimum 2.8 GPA. International learners must also submit TOEFL scores and provide a statement of purpose.
Maharishi International University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Its business programs hold programmatic accreditation from the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
About this school
Founded in 1971 by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi to facilitate consciousness-based education, Maharishi International University is a private institution that remains affiliated with the Transcendental Meditation movement. The school offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including an online master of business administration in sustainable business.
Students complete 58 credits over the course of six terms, including two intensive summer sessions. The program features a mix of synchronous and asynchronous courses. The curriculum comprises foundational requirements, sustainable business fundamentals, and free electives. Classes cover topics like business law, management information systems, and organizational change. Learners culminate the degree with a capstone project that synthesizes degree knowledge and skills.
Applicants to this online MBA program do not need GMAT scores. However, they should hold an accredited bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Additionally, new enrollees must learn the Transcendental Meditation technique within their first six weeks in the program; MUM offers additional courses to help facilitate this process.
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Its business programs hold specialized accreditation from the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
About this school
A Catholic institution that was established in 1912, Saint Mary's University of Minnesota strives to awaken, nurture, and empower degree-seekers, preparing students for ethical lives of service and leadership. Its Graduate School of Business and Technology offers an accelerated, online master of business administration that includes 30 credits and takes about one year to complete.
The curriculum focuses on quantitative analysis and economic theory applications, evidence-based decision-making, and organizational management. Degree-seekers can choose from four specializations:
Data Analytics
Marketing and Social Media
Healthcare Administration
Financial Services/Banking
Courses cover topics like operations management, corporate finance, and executive communication. The program culminates with a comprehensive capstone project that allows degree-seekers to apply their knowledge in a domestic or international business setting.
Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.75 GPA and at least five years of relevant work experience. Prospective learners must also submit a quantitative analysis example, a professional writing sample or business plan, a current resume, and a statement of intent.
Chaminade University of Honolulu is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Its MBA program is accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE).
About this school
Established in 1955 by the Society of Mary, Chaminade University of Honolulu is a Roman Catholic institution. The school offers more than 25 areas of study, including an online master of business administration.
Offered by Chaminade's School of Business and Education, this 36-credit program boasts small class sizes and one-on-one mentoring with expert faculty. Students can complete the program in 18 months, studying topics like financial management, global economic interaction, and organizational behavior. The program offers three concentrations:
General MBA
Healthcare Administration
Science and Technology Innovation
All students take courses on topics like managerial ethics, services marketing, human resources, entrepreneurship, and business law. The program delivers all course content entirely online through innovative learning tools.
Applicants need at least two years of relevant work experience and an accredited bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. They must also submit an essay that discusses their goals and readiness for study.
Carlow University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Its MBA program is a candidate for programmatic accreditation with the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
About this school
Founded 1929 by the Sisters of Mercy, Carlow University provides a student-oriented teaching environment that prepares degree-seekers for lifelong learning and professional fulfillment. This Catholic institution hosts three schools and colleges. Its College of Leadership and Social Change offers a fully online master of business administration.
The interdisciplinary curriculum follows a cohort model and consists of 36 credits that cover practical and theoretical aspects of business management. Graduates can work in roles such as manager, business analyst, and compliance officer. Students can choose from five specializations:
Fraud and Forensics
Healthcare Management
Human Resource Management
Project Management
Business Leadership Management
Classes cover topics like business writing, strategic analysis, financial planning, and evidence-based decision-making for leaders. The program's accelerated and flexible format makes it suitable for busy learners and working professionals.
Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. They must also submit a professional resume, transcripts, two letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. Students may also need to sit for an interview.
Freed-Hardeman University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Its MBA program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
About this school
Freed-Hardeman University is affiliated with the Churches of Christ. Chartered in 1869, the university offers online and on-campus programs through six schools. FHU's online master of business administration comprises 30 credits and develops high-level skills and knowledge in marketing, management, finance, and accounting.
The program delivers all courses entirely online through accelerated, eight-week sessions that allow students to graduate within one year. Courses cover topics like business foundations, analytical decision-making, economic thought, operations management, and business ethics. Students can pursue an optional concentration in healthcare management. Learners culminate the degree with a capstone course in applied strategic decision-making that synthesizes degree knowledge and skills.
Applicants must submit official transcripts and a copy of a government-issued ID. Students without prior business coursework must satisfy prerequisites in marketing, management, and economics.
Bushnell University is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). This online MBA program is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
About this school
A Christian liberal arts school, Bushnell University was originally founded as a divinity school in 1895. Today, Bushnell now offers instruction in science, the liberal arts, and professional studies. The school offers a 36-credit online master of business administration that students can complete within one year.
This program develops technical knowledge and skills related to administrative management, business analysis, and economic theories. Students can pursue one of two concentrations:
Management
Nonprofit Leadership
The fully online program features asynchronous, eight-week courses. Classes cover topics like business ethics, managerial statistics, organizational behavior, and strategic decision-making. Graduates can assume positions as executives, managers, business owners, and consultants.
Applicants need a relevant bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA. They must also submit official academic transcripts, a current resume, and a 500-word statement of purpose that outlines their personal and professional goals.
Lawrence Technological University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Its College of Business and Information Technology is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
About this school
Established in 1932, Lawrence Technological University is a private institution that maintains a 107-acre suburban campus and administers a variety of online programs that cater to working professionals. The university's College of Business and Information Technology offers a fully online master of business administration that students can complete within two years.
This 36-credit online MBA program has no GMAT requirement and features a collaborative, engaging, and fast-paced format that is well suited for professionals working in industries such as engineering, manufacturing, healthcare, and technology, Students can choose from four specializations:
Finance
Cybersecurity
Project Management
Information Technology
The program's flexible, asynchronous courses allow students to balance their studies with professional and personal responsibilities. Courses cover topics like fundamentals of marketing and management, legal aspects of business, corporate finance, global leadership, and accounting.
Applicants need an accredited bachelor's degree. They must also submit transcripts, a professional resume, and letters of recommendation. Degree-seekers who wish to bring in outside credits must submit a transfer credit application.
Grace College and Seminary is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Its School of Business is a candidate for programmatic accreditation with the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
About this school
Established in 1948, Grace College and Seminary offers traditional, on-campus programs in addition to affordable and accessible online programs. The school's fully online master of business administration comprises 36 credits and features a cohort learning model, meaning that students take courses with the same group of peers for the duration of the program. Most students graduate in two years.
The online MBA program has no GMAT requirement and focuses on technical knowledge and transferable skills. Courses cover topics like business ethics, human resource management, international business, entrepreneurship, and business policy. Participants finish the program with an integrative application project that encourages effective and productive implementation of core business concepts in realistic problem-solving scenarios.
Applicants need a relevant accredited bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.75 GPA. They must also submit official transcripts, a resume, and professional references. Grace may also request additional materials or require an interview with a school representative.
Webster University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Its business programs hold specialized accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
About this school
Webster University is a private institution that provides high-quality learning experiences. Founded by the Sisters of Loretto over a century ago, Webster operates five schools and colleges that serve degree-seekers worldwide. The university's School of Business and Technology offers an online master of business administration that requires 36-54 credits.
The curriculum emphasizes specialized leadership and management training and develops hard skills in production operations, economic analysis, and strategic decision-making. Students can choose from 10 concentrations, including:
Corporate Finance
Cybersecurity
Digital Marketing Management
Environmental Management
Gerontology
Health Administration
International Relations
Marketing
Media Communication
Project Management
The program delivers course content completely online through interactive learning modules that emphasize convenience and flexibility. Learners study topics like applied business statistics, organizational behavior, managerial economics, and corporate finance.
The school accepts applications on a rolling basis. In addition to a relevant, accredited bachelor's degree, prospective learners need course prerequisites in business, accounting, and economic analysis. They must also provide transcripts, a professional resume, and one letter of recommendation.
Davenport University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Its online MBA program is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
About this school
Founded in 1866 by a military veteran, Davenport University is a private institution that values quality, trustworthiness, accountability, and creativity. The school offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business, technology, and health services, including an online master of business administration.
This 30-credit MBA program has no GMAT requirements and allows degree-seekers to enroll in courses throughout the year for increased flexibility. Students can choose from several concentrations to customize their degree, including:
Data Mining and Visualization
Finance
Healthcare Management
Human Resource Management
Leadership Strategies
Managerial Accounting
Marketing
Predictive Analysis and Data Visualization
Sales Leadership
Strategic Management
Regardless of their concentration, all learners receive expert-level instruction that covers topics like quantitative business analysis, marketing strategies, organizational leadership, and managerial economics. Learners culminate the degree with a capstone project, applying degree knowledge and skills to practical situations.
Applicants must submit official academic transcripts, a current resume, and two letters of recommendation. They must also submit a 500-word statement of purpose that discusses their fit in the program and past accomplishments.
Graduation Rate
49%
Percent Receiving Loans
71%
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End of list, bravo!
Ranking Methodology
Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Ranking Guidelines
We selected these programs based on their quality and the variety of courses provided, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Methodology for College Rankings
The motto of TheBestSchools.org is Finding the best school for you. Here is how we do it:
The value of any ranking list of schools and/or degree programs depends on having a methodologically sound assessment of each school’s/program’s characteristics, especially insofar as these can be objectively measured. A college or university is a complex entity, with numerous factors to consider, and distilling these down to the place where meaningful comparisons can be made to form a defensible ranking list becomes part science and part art.
To meet this challenge—and thereby provide you with the most useful and insightful educational rankings on the Internet — TheBestSchools.org formulates our rankings based on five informational categories (six, when considering online schools). The major metrics and qualities for which we rank are these (with expanded, detailed considerations and weights listed):
1. Academic excellence based on a school’s curriculum generally or within the selected discipline [weight = 25%]
Weighs school against known leading schools in that discipline
Weighs number of core curricula listed as advanced courses within that discipline and compares against introductory courses
Weighs school’s curriculum against known knowledge needs of major employers in that discipline
Considers number and types of specializations offered within that discipline
Considers faculty expertise in that discipline
Considers range of electives within that discipline
Considers quality of online environment offered to students (if applicable), particularly within that discipline
2. Strength of faculty scholarship [weight = 25%]
Considers education background of the faculty
Considers years of faculty experience both inside and outside of academia.
Considers faculty membership and leadership within relevant, prominent associations
Considers academic papers published by faculty in relevant, prominent periodicals
Considers awards and recognitions given to faculty members from prominent organizations and from other sources
3. Reputation [weight = 20%]
Considers a school’s reputation among academic peers and employers regarding the following:
Faculty
Curriculum
“Freshness” of academic knowledge
Adaptability to changes in employment sectors
Suitability of graduates for the workplace
4. Financial aid [weight = 10%]
Mandatory: Requires full accreditation from an agency endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education and listed on the federal register to accept student federal financial aid
Considers range of school-sponsored financial aid such as scholarships and grants
5. Range of degree programs [weight = 20%]
Considers range of degree levels: associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral and professional
Considers range of degree subjects offered, such as art & design, computers & technology, education & teaching, criminal justice, and business
6. Strength of online instruction methodology (if applicable) [weight = 25%; subtract 5% from each of the above for online schools/programs]
Considers the following of the online classes:
Types of online technology used to deliver content
Pedagogy style: asynchronous, synchronous, or both (depending on the degree)
Extent and quality of the online, community learning environment, including options for communication, interactivity, and collaboration between students and also between students and instructors
Variety, breadth, and depth of coursework, and its support, including project options and online tutoring
Considers the following of instructors:
Extent of training for teaching within an online learning environment
Amount of timely, consistent feedback to students
Extent of collaboration with prospective employers to ensure suitability of instructional materials for achieving desired skills
Ratio to number of students in a class
Number and quality of internships in a student’s geographical area for applicable degrees
Because students tend to review a variety of information when choosing a school, the weight a student gives any one criterion will vary. For instance, it’s not enough to offer a carefully constructed ranking of great schools if many are too expensive or too difficult to get into.
To better serve the needs of prospective students, we are therefore increasingly offering filters that help you better use our rankings to find the schools that match your specific needs. These supplement our ranking criteria and include:
Accreditation
Public or private status
Acceptance rate
Retention rate
Graduation rate
ACT/SAT requirements
Cost in-state / out of state
Undergrad, grad, or both offered
Region
State
City
Get the best rankings here AND get them to suit your personal needs. That’s TheBestSchools.org advantage!
If you have any questions about our ranking methodology, please contact us.
Citations: For a broader account of our ranking methodology, especially as it relates to TheBestSchools.org's underlying educational philosophy and, in other ranking articles, looks beyond academic excellence (as here) to such factors as return on investment or incidental benefit, see our article "Ranking Methodology: How We Rank Schools at TBS." Reputation of schools and degree programs can at least in part be gauged through the school or department's publishing activity, citations, and desirability. At TheBestSchools.org, we keep track of such social and peer validation: "Making Sense of College Rankings." For nuts-and-bolts information about colleges and universities, we look to the National Center for Education Statistics and especially its College Navigator. Insofar as salary and inflation data are relevant to a ranking, we look to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Finally, nothing beats contacting schools and degree programs directly, which our researchers often do, with the result that all the entries in this article should be considered as belonging to this citation!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need GMAT scores to pursue an online MBA?
It depends on the program. Some schools now allow learners to forego taking the GMAT.
Can you get an MBA without taking the GMAT?
If you attend a school that does not require GMAT scores, then yes.
What MBA programs do not require the GMAT?
Many universities dropped GMAT requirements in the last few years, including some of the top-ranked programs in the nation.
Do all MBA programs require the GMAT?
No. While many schools still require this component, more and more schools no longer require applicants to submit GMAT scores.
What is the best online MBA program?
The best online MBA program is the one that matches with your academic abilities, professional goals, lifestyle, and financial needs.
How much does an online MBA cost?
The cost of earning an online MBA can vary substantially. For example, in-state learners at Tarleton State University pay around $700/credit, while students at George Washington University pay almost $1,900/credit.
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