Best Online MBA Programs

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Updated February 14, 2024

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Find the best online MBA programs with this list of top-rated online schools that offer graduate degrees in business administration.

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The best online MBA programs can help students get leadership positions.

Graduates of top online MBA programs can qualify for advanced career opportunities with higher-than-average wages. These degree-holders often out-earn professionals with only a bachelor 's in business administration: For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) found that in 2022, the average salary for workers with any master 's degree was $229 more per week — almost $12,000 more per year — than the average wage for workers with only bachelor 's degrees.

What Is an MBA?


An MBA is an advanced business degree that helps graduates qualify for leadership roles. Courses cover topics like management best practices, decision-making analytics, and marketing tools. Some online MBA programs require applicants to hold several years of professional experience, while others are open to all prospective students regardless of undergraduate major or prior career experience.

Featured Online MBA Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

The Best Online MBA Programs

These rankings include sponsored results from our partners. We use publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

#1 Best Online MBA Programs

The University of Southern California

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$57,256
Out-of-state
$57,256
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$46,272
Out-of-state
$46,272
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
11%
Students Enrolled
48,321
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
17% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#2 Best Online MBA Programs

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

  • Chapel Hill, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,019
Out-of-state
$34,198
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,552
Out-of-state
$28,278
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
23%
Students Enrolled
29,877
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
12% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online MBA Programs

The University of Florida

  • Gainesville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,477
Out-of-state
$25,694
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,770
Out-of-state
$27,335
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
37%
Students Enrolled
52,407
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Online MBA Programs

Rice University

  • Houston, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$48,330
Out-of-state
$48,330
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$48,791
Out-of-state
$48,791
Retention Rate
98%
Acceptance Rate
9%
Students Enrolled
7,282
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
5% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Online MBA Programs

Averett University

  • Danville, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,520
Out-of-state
$11,520
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,790
Out-of-state
$11,790
Retention Rate
50%
Acceptance Rate
24%
Students Enrolled
485
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
97% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Best Online MBA Programs

Florida State University

  • Tallahassee, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,640
Out-of-state
$19,084
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,684
Out-of-state
$24,116
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
42,450
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Best Online MBA Programs

Ottawa University-Main campus

  • Ottawa, KS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$28,980
Out-of-state
$28,980
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,430
Out-of-state
$11,430
Retention Rate
50%
Acceptance Rate
15%
Students Enrolled
731
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 Best Online MBA Programs

Western Governors University

  • Salt Lake City, UT
  • 4 years
  • 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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,380
Out-of-state
$6,380
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,500
Out-of-state
$7,500
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
136,139
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#9 Best Online MBA Programs

Babson College

  • Wellesley, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,608
Out-of-state
$52,608
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$89,550
Out-of-state
$89,550
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
26%
Students Enrolled
3,325
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
1% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#10 Best Online MBA Programs

The University of Miami

  • Coral Gables, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$50,400
Out-of-state
$50,400
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$37,800
Out-of-state
$37,800
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
27%
Students Enrolled
17,811
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
22% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Online MBA Programs Ranking Guidelines

We selected the preceding programs based on quality, curricula, faculty, and reputation for providing quality online programs. Our online MBA rankings use the same methodology as our ranking of the best online colleges.

Our Methodology

Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.

Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.

While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.

  • Academics
  • Affordability
  • Online Enrollment

Data Sources

The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.

The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.

Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.

Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology

About Our Ranking Factors

Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.

Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.

We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.

Academics - 75%

Affordability - 15%

Online Enrollment - 10%

In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.

If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.

We thank you for your readership and trust.

How to Get an MBA Online

Online MBA programs usually take two years of full-time study. Some schools offer accelerated timelines where students can graduate in 12-18 months. Other institutions offer 4+1 programs, where undergraduates begin taking MBA courses during their bachelor 's program and only need one additional year of coursework to finish their master 's degree.

Executive MBA programs gear themselves toward professionals aspiring to C-suite positions and typically require five or more years of experience. These programs often take 1-2 years.

In addition to full-time programs, learners can pursue part-time enrollment, which extends graduation timelines but reduces course loads for busy students.

What Else Can I Expect From an Online MBA Program?

When researching online MBA programs, students should look for concentrations and courses that match their career goals. Offerings vary by program, but many online MBA degrees share similar classes and specializations. We explore these below.

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

    This course covers common ethical and legal considerations in business. Students learn to make company-wide decisions, avoid unethical behavior like insider trading, and stay up-to-date with legal regulations. Enrollees often review case studies, participate in roleplaying assignments, and complete group projects.
  • Leadership Theory and Practice

    In this class, learners study how effective leaders provide oversight 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 a few 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.

Featured Online Master's in Accounting Programs

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.

Featured Online Master's in Economics Programs

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.

Featured Online Master's in Entrepreneurship Programs

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.

Featured Online Master's in Finance Programs

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.

Featured Online Master's in Human Resources Programs

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.

Featured Online Master's in International Business Programs

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.

Featured Online Master's in Management Programs

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.

Featured Online Master's in Marketing Programs

Supply Chain and Logistics

Logisticians and supply chain managers help ensure 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.

Featured Online Master's in Supply Chain and Logistics Programs

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.

MBA Careers

Because many sectors seek professionals with leadership and business skills, MBA graduates can find jobs across many industries. We explore common jobs for MBA graduates below.

Management Analysts

  • 2022 Median Salary: $95,290
  • Projected Job Growth, 2022-32: +10%

Also known as management consultants, management analysts observe the workplace, including interviewing staff and reviewing financial data, to help organizations increase efficiency. They offer recommendations like staff training or goal-setting to address efficiency issues. These professionals may work for a single corporation or in a consulting role for multiple organizations.

Top Executives

  • 2022 Median Salary: $100,090
  • Projected Job Growth, 2022-32: +3%

Top executives run companies by directing activities and setting organizational goals. They devise strategic plans, manage other department leaders, and decide company priorities. They may also set budgets, negotiate large contracts, and review financial statements. Executives need strong leadership, problem-solving, communication, and decision-making skills.

Administrative Service Managers

  • 2022 Median Salary: $101,870
  • Projected Job Growth, 2022-32: +5%

Administrative service managers oversee clerical staff, set department goals, enforce operational policies, and manage recordkeeping. They may also manage organizations ' facilities. Sometimes, administrative service managers hire outside vendors or specialists to repair equipment or install technology. They also ensure that companies follow local, state, federal, and industry regulations.

Financial Managers

  • 2022 Median Salary: $139,790
  • Projected Job Growth, 2022-32: +16%

Financial managers help companies manage finances and increase revenue. They prepare financial statements, create income and loss forecasts, develop business activity reports, and present financial information to stakeholders. Financial managers need a keen eye for detail and strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Popular Questions About MBAs

What Does MBA Stand For?

MBA stands for master of business administration.

What Is an MBA?

An MBA is a graduate degree that prepares students for advanced business roles in fields like finance, human relations, and marketing.

What Can You Do With an MBA?

MBA graduates can qualify for managerial and leadership roles, including executive roles like CEO or CFO.

Is an MBA a Master 's Degree?

Yes, an MBA is a master 's degree. 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.

What Jobs Can I Get With an MBA?

MBA graduates can pursue a variety of advanced business and leadership roles across industries. Common jobs for MBA graduates include top executive, marketing manager, and administrative service manager.

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