Best Online Executive MBA Programs
While an MBA program serves new and experienced professionals alike, an executive MBA program is primarily designed for mid-career professionals and executives seeking to enhance their skills. Executive MBA programs usually attract current business professionals seeking career advancement. These programs examine key areas of business, such as accounting, organizational behavior, and project management, while preparing students for leadership roles across industries.
Because executive MBA (eMBA) programs meet the educational needs of mid-career professionals and executives, they typically only admit students who are already employed and have significant professional experience. This is because they often skip the introductory material that MBA programs cover since eMBA students have already developed that foundation through their professional experience.
If a traditional MBA better fits your needs, check out the 50 best online MBA programs.
The Best Online Executive MBA Programs
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in West Lafayette, Indiana, Purdue University-Main Campus offers an online MBA. The program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, graduates can pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a background in business management may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online degree-seekers complete local internships to gain hands-on experience. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Purdue University-Main Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 60%
Total Online Master's Programs: 20
Program Name: MBA
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,208
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,010
- In-State$9,208
- Out-of-state$28,010
- In-State$9,208
- Out-of-state$28,010
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate60%
- Students Enrolled45,500
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment22%
- AccreditationYes
University of North Carolina Wilmington
- Wilmington, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
University of North Carolina Wilmington offers a flexible online MBA. The program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners prepare for focused careers by choosing electives and concentrations. Applicants who majored in business management or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to find local internships. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
University of North Carolina Wilmington at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 65%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: MBA
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,719
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,548
- In-State$4,443
- Out-of-state$18,508
- In-State$4,719
- Out-of-state$18,548
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate65%
- Students Enrolled17,499
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
University of North Alabama
- Florence, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online MBA program at University of North Alabama, located in Florence, offers high academic quality. The program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. After completing a master's degree, graduates can pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to business management. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The program recommends a background in business management before applying to the program.
Online enrollees complete local internships to gain hands-on experience. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
University of North Alabama at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 89%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program Name: MBA
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,660
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,320
- In-State$9,600
- Out-of-state$19,200
- In-State$6,660
- Out-of-state$13,320
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate89%
- Students Enrolled7,702
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment66%
- AccreditationYes
California State University, San Bernardino
- San Bernardino, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
California State University, San Bernardino hosts a top-ranked MBA for executives. The program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. A master's degree helps graduates advance in their current field or pursue a new career.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in business management. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The program recommends a background in business management before applying.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
California State University, San Bernardino at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 69%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: MBA for executives
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,176
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,680
- In-State$5,742
- Out-of-state$17,622
- In-State$7,176
- Out-of-state$16,680
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate69%
- Students Enrolled20,638
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment33%
- AccreditationYes
University of Nevada-Reno
- Reno, NV
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The executive MBA program at University of Nevada-Reno offers a flexible online format. The program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing enrollees for leadership positions. A master's degree can also prepare graduates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in business management. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in business management.
Online enrollees can add to their resume by pursuing internships at approved locations in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
University of Nevada-Reno at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 88%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Executive MBA
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,306
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $20,357
- In-State$7,410
- Out-of-state$22,461
- In-State$5,306
- Out-of-state$20,357
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate88%
- Students Enrolled20,993
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment24%
- AccreditationYes
Washington State University
- Pullman, WA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Pullman, Washington State University offers an online MBA. The program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, graduates can advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in business management. Learners can individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in business management.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Washington State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 76%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: MBA
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,493
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,248
- In-State$9,953
- Out-of-state$24,531
- In-State$11,493
- Out-of-state$25,248
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate76%
- Students Enrolled31,607
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment21%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Texas at Tyler
- Tyler, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Texas at Tyler enrolls master's students in its online MBA program. The program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training enrollees for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. After completing a master's degree, graduates can pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. Applicants who majored in business management or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
The University of Texas at Tyler at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 83%
Total Online Master's Programs: 9
Program Name: MBA
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,850
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $14,328
- In-State$6,540
- Out-of-state$20,760
- In-State$5,850
- Out-of-state$14,328
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance Rate83%
- Students Enrolled9,617
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment62%
- AccreditationYes
University of Hawaii at Manoa
- Honolulu, HI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Honolulu, University of Hawaii at Manoa hosts a top-ranked distance learning executive MBA degree. The program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the field and related industries. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants with a background in business typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
University of Hawaii at Manoa at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Distance learning executive MBA
Graduate Tuition In State: $15,912
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $37,392
- In-State$11,304
- Out-of-state$33,336
- In-State$15,912
- Out-of-state$37,392
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled17,490
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment20%
- AccreditationYes
Texas Southern University
- Houston, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Houston, Texas Southern University hosts a top-rated online executive master of business administration. The program strengthens specialized skills, preparing learners for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. After completing a master's degree, graduates can advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants without a degree in business or a related field may need to meet prerequisites.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing local internships. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Texas Southern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 91%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Executive master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,487
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,868
- In-State$6,942
- Out-of-state$20,097
- In-State$5,487
- Out-of-state$12,868
- Retention Rate53%
- Acceptance Rate91%
- Students Enrolled9,034
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
Bethel University
- McKenzie, TN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online executive MBA at Bethel University, located in McKenzie, Tennessee, prioritizes flexibility. The program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum explores business research and methodologies. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with a background in business typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees participate in local internships. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Bethel University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 90%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Executive MBA
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,034
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,034
- In-State$10,188
- Out-of-state$10,188
- In-State$11,034
- Out-of-state$11,034
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance Rate90%
- Students Enrolled3,119
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment51%
- AccreditationYes
Best Online Programs
Executive MBA
2023
Online Executive MBA Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Rankings MethodologyChoosing a Program
When selecting an eMBA program, it’s important to consider several key factors to ensure the program aligns with your professional goals ad personal needs:
- Program Format: Many students in eMBA programs would benefit from flexible programs that offer part-time, online, or hybrid formats that fit the needs of someone who works full-time.
- Reputation and Accreditation: Look for programs accredited by recognized bodies, such as AACBS or EQUIS, to ensure quality and industry recognition.
- Networking Opportunities: Strong alumni networks and connections to industry professionals can help career advancement, especially for those who plan to job search following graduation.
- Support Services: Programs that offer career coaching, mentoring, and post-grad resources add significant value.
Candidates should also consider factors like graduation timelines, delivery format, cost, and admission criteria. For instance, some programs require GRE scores. Applicants without those scores need to take the exam or look at other colleges.
What Can I Expect From an Executive MBA Program?
Courses for executive MBA programs examine general MBA concepts, like organizational behavior, accounting, and business ethics, while heavily emphasizing leadership concepts, such as decision-making, economic analysis, negotiation, and strategic management. Courses vary by program, but the following section outlines some common courses found in eMBA programs.
Executive MBA Curriculum
- Ethical Leadership: This course covers ethical problem-solving and decision-making in business. Students explore the impact of culture on corporate dynamics and learn how to lead diverse teams. This class may incorporate case studies and examine models and theories of leadership.
- Strategy Implementation: In this class, students learn how to effectively implement business strategies. Students examine common employee needs during transitions and study methods for effectively communicating upcoming changes to business plans.
- Corporate Finance: This course covers common corporate finance topics, such as risk management, payout policies, pricing, and net present value. Students may also explore taxation and investment selections and learn how to use financial information for marketing and business planning.
Executive MBA Careers
Executive MBA programs prepare students for executive and administrative positions in fields like healthcare, education, government, and finance. The degree can also lead to careers in finance and human resource management. The following list outlines several common careers for eMBA graduates.
Executive MBA Professional Organizations
Executive MBA students and graduates should take advantage of professional organizations. Professional organizations offer benefits like networking, professional development, and continuing education opportunities. They may also connect members with job opportunities.
American Management Association
Members of AMA have access to certificate programs in areas like sales management, leadership, and emotional intelligence. The group also provides seminars and webinars on topics such as industry software, business writing, and networking.National Black MBA Association
This specialty group promotes the welfare of Black business professionals. It offers membership discounts on industry training and certification opportunities and delivers the Webinar Academy, which hones professional skills in time management, negotiation, and project management.MBA Career Services & Employer Alliance
This organization offers a yearly conference, webinars, and professional development opportunities. Its members also have access to a document library, an online community, and an exclusive job board.Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take to Complete an Executive MBA Program?
MBA programs often take 2-3 years to complete, though some schools offer accelerated timelines.
What Can I Do With an Executive MBA?
An executive MBA prepares graduates for leadership positions, such like C-level executive or administrator. These roles are found across industries, including healthcare, finance, and education.
Is an Executive MBA Full Time?
Generally, students pursue an executive MBA part time and continue working while earning the degree.
Is an eMBA Better Than a MBA?
Executive MBA programs focus heavily on preparing current professionals for leadership roles in business, while MBA programs attract new and experienced professionals alike, covering more foundational business administration topics. Which is the best degree depends on a student’s goals, experience, and interests.
Is an Executive MBA Worth It?
Executive MBA programs can lead to top-level roles with strong salary potential in a variety of industries, making these programs worth the investment for many students.
