Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship

by TBS Staff

Updated October 18, 2022

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Entrepreneurship and new business ventures contribute positively to the U.S. economy.

MBA in entrepreneurship students learn important fundamentals such as developing business plans, understanding business from conception to execution, and learning how to manage small- and large-scale businesses in different industries. Graduates of these programs are afforded plenty of room to grow, high employment levels, and the ability to adapt to different industries depending on their interests, career goals, and aspirations for growth.

Earning an MBA opens up career opportunities and unlocks higher salary potential. Before enrolling in a program, students can explore factors including program cost, course offerings, career potential, and program type. During their program and continuing after graduation, students can explore membership opportunities with various professional organizations relevant to entrepreneurship, providing them with networking possibilities and professional development experiences.

The Best Online Entrepreneurship Programs

#1 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers an online master's in entrepreneurship. The master of business administration in entrepreneurship 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 explores advanced methodologies and research in entrepreneurship. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants with a background in entrepreneurship typically meet the admission requirements.

Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.

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 in Entrepreneurship

Graduate Tuition In State: $10,552

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,278

Average Tuition
In-state
$7,019
Out-of-state
$34,198
Retention Rate
96%
Admission 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

#2 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship

Babson College

  • Wellesley, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its campus in Wellesley, Massachusetts, Babson College hosts a top-ranked master's in entrepreneurship program. The master of business administration in entrepreneurship emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.

The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in entrepreneurship. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants without a degree in entrepreneurship or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.

Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.

Babson College at a Glance:

Type of School: Private 

Admission Rate: 26%

Total Online Master's Programs: 1

Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship

Graduate Tuition In State: $89,550

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $89,550

Average Tuition
In-state
$52,608
Out-of-state
$52,608
Retention Rate
95%
Admission 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

#3 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship

Pennsylvania State University World Campus

  • University Park, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online

The online master's degree in entrepreneurship at Pennsylvania State University World Campus, located in University Park, offers high academic quality. The master's in corporate innovation and entrepreneurship program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the field and related industries. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.

The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in entrepreneurship. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The admission requirements include a background in entrepreneurship or a related field.

Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.

Pennsylvania State University World Campus at a Glance:

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 76%

Total Online Master's Programs: 52

Program Name: Master's in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Graduate Tuition In State: $21,682

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,682

Average Tuition
In-state
$13,484
Out-of-state
$13,484
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
Not provided
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#4 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship

University of Louisiana at Lafayette

  • Lafayette, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The online master's in entrepreneurship degree at University of Louisiana at Lafayette prioritizes flexibility. The master of business administration in entrepreneurship program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.

The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with a background in entrepreneurship typically meet the admission requirements.

Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.

University of Louisiana at Lafayette at a Glance:

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 68%

Total Online Master's Programs: 6

Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship

Graduate Tuition In State: $5,511

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,239

Average Tuition
In-state
$5,407
Out-of-state
$19,135
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
16,933
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship

The University of Massachusetts Amherst

  • Amherst, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Massachusetts Amherst offers a flexible online master's in entrepreneurship. The master of business administration in entrepreneurship program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.

The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The master's program recommends a background in entrepreneurship or a related field when applying.

Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations 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 Massachusetts Amherst at a Glance:

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 64%

Total Online Master's Programs: 8

Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship

Graduate Tuition In State: $14,014

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,529

Average Tuition
In-state
$15,791
Out-of-state
$35,112
Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
31,350
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
15% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#6 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship

Syracuse University

  • Syracuse, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its campus in Syracuse, New York, Syracuse University hosts a top-ranked master's in entrepreneurship program. The master of science or master of business administration in entrepreneurship builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.

The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of entrepreneurship. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in entrepreneurship.

Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.

Syracuse University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private 

Admission Rate: 44%

Total Online Master's Programs: 16

Program Name: Master of Science or Master of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship

Graduate Tuition In State: $38,880

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $38,880

Average Tuition
In-state
$50,616
Out-of-state
$50,616
Retention Rate
92%
Admission Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
22,850
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
15% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#7 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship

Cedarville University

  • Cedarville, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Graduate students interested in a master's in entrepreneurship can earn their degree from Cedarville University, located in Cedarville, Ohio. The master of business administration in innovation and entrepreneurship program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.

The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in entrepreneurship. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in entrepreneurship.

Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.

Cedarville University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private

Admission Rate: 79%

Total Online Master's Programs: 6

Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Graduate Tuition In State: $9,065

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,065

Average Tuition
In-state
$31,122
Out-of-state
$31,122
Retention Rate
85%
Admission Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
4,302
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
36% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship

Southern New Hampshire University

  • Manchester, NH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Graduate students seeking an online entrepreneurship degree can enroll in the master's program at Southern New Hampshire University, located in Manchester. The master of business administration in entrepreneurship program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.

The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to entrepreneurship. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program builds on prior entrepreneurship experience during a bachelor's program.

Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.

Southern New Hampshire University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private 

Admission Rate: 88%

Total Online Master's Programs: 22

Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship

Graduate Tuition In State: $18,810

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,810

Average Tuition
In-state
$30,756
Out-of-state
$30,756
Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
113,514
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
94% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#9 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship

Central Michigan University

  • Mount Pleasant, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The online master's in entrepreneurship program, offered by Central Michigan University from its Mount Pleasant campus, ranks as a top program. The master of entrepreneurial ventures builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.

The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in entrepreneurship. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants without a background in entrepreneurship may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.

Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.

Central Michigan University at a Glance:

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 70%

Total Online Master's Programs: 24

Program Name: Master of Entrepreneurial Ventures

Graduate Tuition In State: $16,700

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,700

Average Tuition
In-state
$12,383
Out-of-state
$22,881
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
19,362
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
40% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship

Ohio University-Main Campus

  • Athens, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its campus in Athens, Ohio University hosts a top-ranked master's in entrepreneurship program. The master of business administration in business venturing and entrepreneurship program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.

The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to entrepreneurship. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The master's program recommends a background in entrepreneurship or a related field when applying.

Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.

Ohio University at a Glance:

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 82%

Total Online Master's Programs: 23

Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Business Venturing and Entrepreneurship

Graduate Tuition In State: $9,444

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,436

Average Tuition
In-state
$12,612
Out-of-state
$22,406
Retention Rate
82%
Admission Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
27,367
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
Best Online MBA

Online Entrepreneurship Programs Ranking Guidelines

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

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.

Featured Online Entrepreneurship Programs

What Is an MBA in Entrepreneurship?

MBA in entrepreneurship programs prepare students to pursue business and/or product ventures by combining the theory and practice of business administration with entrepreneur education. Entrepreneur education programs focus on the importance of building a strong professional network, securing funding (including venture capital), and organizing and initiating a startup.

MBA in entrepreneurship programs cover subjects such as researching and identifying emerging market opportunities, applying innovation to current businesses, revitalizing mature organizations, channeling creativity into daily operations, and further developing critical thinking and analytical problem–solving skills.

Plenty of people can think of a potential idea for a business or product, but they may not have the knowledge and skills necessary to make this idea a reality. An MBA in entrepreneurship gives students the foundation to bridge the gap and create successful and sustainable business ventures. Students who earn an MBA in entrepreneurship can partner in a startup or apply their knowledge to help operate and develop an entrepreneurial venture.

How Is an MBA in Social Entrepreneurship Different?

An MBA in social entrepreneurship provides students with a specific focus on socially conscious enterprises. This degree provides students seeking to develop a company and devoted to serving the community the skills and knowledge needed to actualize this dream. An MBA in social entrepreneurship combines the theory and practice of business administration with entrepreneurship education, adding a specific focus on social awareness and social service.

Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Programs

Students who enroll in online programs enjoy unique benefits, some of which can include asynchronous learning, which allows students to complete their work within the constraints of their personal schedules. Some online programs feature synchronous learning, which requires students to watch online lectures at a prescribed time.

Advantages of an MBA in Entrepreneurship

Holding a bachelor's degree in business administration or entrepreneurship allows students to pursue careers as business consultants, sales representatives, research and development specialists, recruiters, and business reporters. Students interested in furthering their career opportunities and exploring higher salary potentials can pursue a master of business administration in entrepreneurship. Graduates of these programs can work as general managers, fundraiser managers, construction managers, and business operations managers. Students can also consider pursuing doctoral education if they want full access to careers in the field with the highest possible salary opportunities. In the following section, students can review careers available to MBA graduates, including salary information and job descriptions.

What Can You Do With an MBA in Entrepreneurship?

Students who earn an MBA in Entrepreneurship can pursue a variety of careers:

  • Administrative Services Manager
  • Business Consultant
  • Business Operations Management
  • Community Engagement Director
  • Company CEO
  • Computer Systems Manager
  • Construction Manager
  • Contractor
  • Corporate Manager
  • Financial Management
  • Fundraising Manager
  • General Manager
  • Human Resources Management
  • Information Security Management
  • Management Analyst
  • Marketing Director
  • Mid–level Manager
  • Nonprofit Manager
  • Public Relations Director
  • Sales Director
  • Small Business Owner and Operator
  • Social Impact Director

Choosing an Online Entrepreneurship MBA Program

Students searching for the right online MBA program should take their time as they research each program that interests them. In particular, they should pay attention to program cost, comparing different schools to understand which program offers the best tuition rates for their expected financial aid. In–state programs tend to be the more affordable option for prospective students, but some schools offer in–state rates to online students regardless of residency. Students can also research transfer policies, school type and size, program length, on–campus requirements, and graduation requirements. Students should be and precise in their search to find the online program that fits their unique needs.

Program Cost
Students considering enrollment in online MBA entrepreneurship programs should consider program costs at each college and university they are interested in. Program cost varies depending on the institution and the amount of financial aid received.
Transfer Policies
Students who might need to transfer to another school at some point during their program should review their school’s transfer policies as well as those at competing schools.
School Size and Type
Smaller class sizes denote more individualized programs, so students can pay attention to the class sizes featured at each college and university to determine whether they will get the one–on–one attention they desire at a program. Additionally, students should review whether their college of interest operates as a public or private institution, differences in accreditation, and program quality.
Program Length
The time it takes a student to graduate will depend on whether they are enrolled full time or part time. Furthermore, some programs require students to maintain full–time enrollment and follow a cohort format, completing courses at the same time as fellow classmates, while others take an asynchronous approach and allow students the flexibility to complete courses at their own pace.
On–campus Requirements
Many online MBA entrepreneurship programs feature programs delivered entirely online. Some programs, however, might require students to complete on–campus requirements including courses, seminars, orientations, final presentations, and internships. Students can review program requirements before enrolling in case they do not have the ability to fulfill on–campus requirements.
Thesis, Fellowship, and Work Requirements
Each program features its own graduation requirements. Many programs require students to finish a thesis or capstone project, and some require students to complete fellowships or in–the–field experiences.

How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online MBA in Entrepreneurship?

Students pursuing their online MBA entrepreneurship degree encounter different factors that may impact their program length. Typically, full–time students take two years to finish their online MBA program. However, part–time enrollment functions as a great option for students who need the maximum amount of flexibility within their online MBA. For students who want to earn their MBA as quickly as possible, many colleges and universities offer online MBA entrepreneurship programs in accelerated formats. Students enrolled in accelerated programs can double–up on the amount of credits they complete each semester to finish their program in under two years.

Accreditation for Online MBA Degrees

Students interested in earning an online MBA entrepreneurship degree should ensure the program they enroll in is accredited. There are two main types of accreditation: regional and national. Students attending nationally accredited institutions typically focus on coursework geared toward technical and career training and topics. In these institutions, students do not generally complete liberal arts–based coursework. Nationally, accredited programs often carry lower tuition rates than regionally accredited programs do, but they also tend to get excluded from many tuition reimbursement plans.

Credits do not always transfer easily from nationally accredited institutions, so students planning on furthering their education or pursuing certain certifications should consider the transfer requirements before enrolling in a nationally accredited college or university. Regionally, accredited institutions focus primarily on liberal arts–based coursework. Although these institutions often charge higher tuition rates than nationally accredited colleges and schools, they get included in most tuition reimbursement plans and credits are more easily transferred.

The U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) both play important roles in accreditation. Though the ED does not administer accreditation, it does oversee accrediting agencies to ensure quality education is maintained across accredited programs, setting standards and ensuring programs meet those standards. CHEA operates as an organization of degree–granting colleges and universities. Students can access the ED’s website or CHEA’s website to access a list of all the accredited schools in the United States.

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