Top MBAs Online of 2024
There’s a few reasons why a master’s in business administration (MBA) is consistently among the most popular graduate degrees in the country. Earning an MBA degree online is an investment that can provide flexibility, speed up your career, and pave the way to a high salary.
Online MBA programs allow you to balance your education with other personal commitments, such as a full-time job or family obligations. They provide you with the same level of business expertise and marketable skills as a traditional MBA program, unlocking high-paying management and leadership positions across many business fields.
Below, explore the best online MBA programs, concentration areas, average tuition costs, career paths, and salary outcomes for MBA graduates.
Best Online MBA Programs
The University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Los Angeles, the University of Southern California hosts a top-rated online master's in business management. The master of business administration program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. The admission requirements include a background in business or a related field.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
The University of Southern California at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 11%
Total Online Master's Programs: 55
Program Name: Master of Business Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $46,272
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $46,272
- In-State$57,256
- Out-of-state$57,256
- In-State$46,272
- Out-of-state$46,272
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate11%
- Students Enrolled48,321
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment17%
- AccreditationYes
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Chapel Hill, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students seeking an online business management degree can enroll in the master's program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The master of business administration builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in business management. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. Applicants without a business background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 23%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master of Business Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,552
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,278
- In-State$7,019
- Out-of-state$34,198
- In-State$10,552
- Out-of-state$28,278
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate23%
- Students Enrolled29,877
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment12%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Florida
- Gainesville, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students interested in a master's in business management can earn their degree from the University of Florida, located in Gainesville. The master of business administration builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in business management. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The admission requirements include a background in business or a related field.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
The University of Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 37%
Total Online Master's Programs: 42
Program Name: Master of Business Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,770
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,335
- In-State$4,477
- Out-of-state$25,694
- In-State$10,770
- Out-of-state$27,335
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate37%
- Students Enrolled52,407
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Rice University
- Houston, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's degree in business management at Rice University, located in Houston, Texas, offers high academic quality. The master of business administration program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in business management. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. Applicants without a degree in business or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Rice University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 9%
Total Online Master's Programs: 1
Program Name: Master of Business Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $48,791
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $48,791
- In-State$48,330
- Out-of-state$48,330
- In-State$48,791
- Out-of-state$48,791
- Retention Rate98%
- Acceptance Rate9%
- Students Enrolled7,282
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment5%
- AccreditationYes
Averett University
- Danville, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students interested in a master's in business management can earn their degree from Averett University, located in Danville, Virginia. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from one of the school's master of business administration programs. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants who majored in business or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Averett University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 24%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program Name: Master of Business Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,790
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,790
- In-State$11,520
- Out-of-state$11,520
- In-State$11,790
- Out-of-state$11,790
- Retention Rate50%
- Acceptance Rate24%
- Students Enrolled485
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment97%
- AccreditationYes
Florida State University
- Tallahassee, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Tallahassee, Florida State University hosts a top-rated online master's in business. The master of business administration program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in business. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a business background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Florida State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 36%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program Name: Master of Business Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,684
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,116
- In-State$4,640
- Out-of-state$19,084
- In-State$9,684
- Out-of-state$24,116
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate36%
- Students Enrolled42,450
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
Ottawa University-Main campus
- Ottawa, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students interested in a master's in business management can earn their degree from Ottawa University, located in Ottawa, Kansas. The master of business administration program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. The master's program recommends a background in business before applying to the program.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Ottawa University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 15%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master of Business Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,430
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,430
- In-State$28,980
- Out-of-state$28,980
- In-State$11,430
- Out-of-state$11,430
- Retention Rate50%
- Acceptance Rate15%
- Students Enrolled731
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment100%
- AccreditationYes
Western Governors University
- Salt Lake City, UT
- 4 year
- Online
Graduate students seeking an online business management degree can enroll in the master's program at Western Governors University, located in Salt Lake City, Utah. The master of business administration builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of business management. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in business or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Western Governors University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Total Online Master's Programs: 29
Program Name: Master of Business Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,500
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,500
- In-State$6,380
- Out-of-state$6,380
- In-State$7,500
- Out-of-state$7,500
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled136,139
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online EnrollmentNot provided
- AccreditationYes
Babson College
- Wellesley, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in business management degree at Babson College, located in Wellesley, Massachusetts, prioritizes flexibility. The master of business administration program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. Applicants who majored in business or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Babson College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 26%
Total Online Master's Programs: 1
Program Name: Master of Business Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $89,550
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $89,550
- In-State$52,608
- Out-of-state$52,608
- In-State$89,550
- Out-of-state$89,550
- Retention Rate95%
- Acceptance Rate26%
- Students Enrolled3,325
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment1%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Miami
- Coral Gables, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's in business management degree at the University of Miami, located in Coral Gables, Florida, uses a flexible distance learning format. The master of business administration program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of business management. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants who majored in business or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
The University of Miami at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 27%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program Name: Master of Business Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $37,800
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $37,800
- In-State$50,400
- Out-of-state$50,400
- In-State$37,800
- Out-of-state$37,800
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate27%
- Students Enrolled17,811
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment22%
- AccreditationYes
What Is an Online MBA?
An MBA is an advanced business degree that develops broad expertise in business. Courses cover topics like business strategy, ethical decision-making, and organizational management. Most MBA programs consist of 36-40 credits and take between 2-4 years to complete.
Online MBA students take courses in asynchronous and synchronous settings, either through lesson plans or live classes. In addition to taking online courses, many MBA programs require a capstone project and professional development activities to graduate.
Many online MBA programs require a bachelor’s degree for admission, preferably in a business-related major. Some require applicants to hold several years of professional experience. Others are open to all prospective students regardless of undergraduate major or prior career experience.
How Much Does an Online MBA Cost?
The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that online master’s in business or management costs $10,994 in average annual tuition and fees. For comparison, an in-person master’s in business or management costs $16,120.
But the cost of an online MBA can vary. Factors such as the school, program duration, and whether it is a public or private institution can change the price. Your access to reliable internet may also impact the cost, if you don’t have a strong web connection in your home.
Online MBA Courses
Online MBA programs focus on business best practices, including leadership and management skills. Common courses in these degrees include:
Legal and Ethical Decision-Making
Legal and ethical decision-making courses cover common ethical and legal considerations in business. Students learn to make company-wide decisions, avoid unethical behavior (e.g., insider trading), and stay up to date with legal regulations.Leadership Theory and Practice
Leadership theory and practice involves leadership and support for employees to help their companies achieve goals. Learners may explore case studies, write papers, and complete assignments in class to help them understand their own leadership approaches.Information Technology
Businesses use information technology to create computer networks, collect and protect data, and make data-driven decisions. In this course, students learn to use databases, manage digital strategies, and extrapolate data for business decision-making.Personnel Management
Also called human resource management, this course explores talent management. Enrollees learn about hiring and training employees, managing benefits programs, and setting salaries. Coursework may also explore industrial-organizational psychology.Finance and Accounting for Managers
Business professionals use accounting to assess business performance and set strategic goals. This class covers financial accounting principles, international financial reporting standards, and industry standards and trends.Marketing Management
This course teaches marketing, branding, and advertising strategies. Topics typically include segmentation and targeting, pricing and promotion, distribution, and brand allegiance. Assignments may include analyzing case studies.
Online MBA Concentrations
Business is a broad topic, so most online MBA programs offer concentrations to help students focus their skills. Below are several common specializations for online MBAs.
Accounting
An MBA in accounting focuses on financial leadership in corporate settings. This degree can help prepare you for work as a certified public accountant (CPA), management accountant, or financial consultant. An accounting concentration may require classes like advanced cost accounting, tax research and jurisprudence, and advanced auditing.
Economics
Economists research economic issues and recommend solutions to economic problems. These professionals can influence public policy and global economies. An MBA in economics can prepare learners for economic careers by blending courses in business leadership with classes in econometrics, economic theory, and quantitative and qualitative data analysis.
Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurs create their own business ventures. Enrollees in this concentration learn about the finance, marketing, human assets, and management strategy aspects of developing business plans. Classes also cover topics like venture capital, the finance of buyouts and acquisitions, and intellectual property strategy for innovation-driven enterprises.
Finance
MBA finance concentrations explore the tools used to improve company bottom lines. Students learn to make financial decisions and keep organizations profitable. Classes explore ideas like international financial markets, advanced corporate finance, venture capitalism, and behavioral finance.
Human Resource Management
Human resource management concentrations prepare learners for roles like training manager, compensation and benefits manager, or human resource manager. Courses cover human resource staffing, talent management and development, and leading strategic change initiatives. Programs may also examine negotiation and conflict resolution strategies.
International Business
Enrollees in international business concentrations study global markets, international trends, and the rules governing multinational corporations. This specialization covers traditional business topics — like human resource management and finance — through an international lens. Common courses include international business environments, international business law, and global operations for supply chain strategies.
Management
MBA in management programs can offer specializations such as operations management, healthcare administration, or business analytics. Students take classes like organizational management, managerial economics, and supply chain management. Graduates can qualify for roles such as director of operations, procurement manager, or executive director.
Marketing
Marketing concentrations teach students to lead marketing departments and make high-level decisions about brand strategy. Courses cover marketing analysis and development, global brand strategies, and how to use data analytics in marketing. Learners in this concentration can pursue jobs like brand and product marketing manager, public relations director, marketing data analyst, or marketing director.
Supply Chain and Logistics
Logisticians and supply chain managers help ensure the efficient delivery of goods and services. An MBA in supply chain management may include classes such as global logistics management, quantitative analysis for supply chains, and artificial intelligence for supply chain management.
MBA Careers
Because many sectors seek professionals with leadership and business skills, MBA graduates can find jobs across many industries. Common roles for MBA graduates include management, executive-level positions, and consulting.
How Are Online MBA Programs Accredited?
Online MBA students should ensure all schools on their list hold institutional accreditation. Institutional accreditation is a process through which a third-party organization verifies whether a school meets high standards for faculty qualifications, academic rigor, and student learning outcomes.
Additionally, some business schools may hold programmatic accreditation — an optional process that evaluates how well a particular department or program’s coursework prepares learners for careers in the field.
MBA programmatic accreditors include AACSB International, the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, and the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online MBA Programs
An online MBA program usually takes 1-2 years for full-time students. For a part-time student with a lighter course load, it may take 3-4 years. Many accelerated MBA programs can be completed in 12-18 months. Some schools have “4+1” programs, where students earn a bachelor’s and an MBA in five years.
An MBA stands for master of business administration. It’s a postgraduate degree that provides a broad business education and qualifies you for management or leadership positions, such as chief financial officer, management consultant, and operations manager.
Yes, an MBA is a master’s degree. An MBA provides credibility and marketability for many business careers, including management and leadership positions. Applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree to apply for an MBA program. Some schools also require applicants to hold several years of professional experience.
