Earning an MBA online can open many doors to you in the business world. Whether it is finance, management, or consulting, you will be better-prepared for a rewarding career that pays well. However, deciding to pursue this path is only the first step; you’ll need to decide which business school and online MBA program best align with your education and career goals. Most programs offer a number of degree specializations and course formats to support different career paths. With dozens of possibilities available, how do you choose?
The following guide shows you what to look for in a quality online MBA program, starting with a comprehensive list of this year’s top schools offering MBA programs online. See which programs stand out in 2024.
Top 50 Online MBA Programs: 2024 Edition
Deciding on the right MBA program can be a game-changer for your career, but with countless options out there, how do you choose? This comprehensive list of 2024’s best online master’s programs in business administration includes tailored insights, addressing your concerns about program quality, financial considerations, and timeliness. Get ready to navigate the business landscape and discover the MBA program that aligns seamlessly with your aspirations, propelling you towards success in your business career.
The online MBA at Johnson & Wales University (JWU) focuses on the development of the analytical, communication, and leadership skills that students will use in their future careers. The program is designed with working professionals in mind and offers asynchronous coursework, flexible start dates, and accelerated courses to help students balance their work with their studies. Because the program focuses heavily on applicable skills, students can begin applying what they learn in their courses immediately in their current careers. JWU is notable for its strong student support. Small class sizes help students develop relationships with their professors and peers. Real world projects encourage networking within and outside the school. JWU’s online career coaching tool offers research-based insight into possible careers to help guide students’ studies.
Program Highlights:
Master of Business Administration — General
- Credits: 36-42
- Length: Two years
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: NECHE
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | NECHE |
Concordia University’s online MBA in Leadership teaches students how to problem solve through practical applications for decision-making in the dynamic business environment. As part of their studies, students complete at least six credits of experiential learning. This requirement lets students experience how their studies apply in real life situations and offer opportunities to build professional relationships within their field. Concordia prides itself on the academic and administrative support it provides to online students. All professors are experienced business professionals who are encouraged to take on active roles mentoring their students. Students also benefit from a dedicated, full-time advisor who can provide academic advice, connect them to resources, and provide career coaching.
Program Highlights:
Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Leadership
- Credits: 36
- Length: Two years
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: IACBE
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
The online MBA at Brescia University is all about efficiency. By offering accelerated courses and focusing on the essential skills and knowledge students need to succeed, Brescia has developed a streamlined curriculum that can be completed in as little as one year. However, students also have the option to study part time and have the option to spread their coursework out over as many as five years. Students can choose between a practicum-based or thesis-based option depending on their goals and interests. Brescia also recently introduced emphasis options in finance or management.
Program Highlights:
Master of Business Administration
- Credits: 30
- Length: One year
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | MSCHE |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | NECHE |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | MSCHE |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | MSCHE |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | WSCUC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | NWCCU |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | TRACS |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | MSCHE |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | NECHE |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | ACICS |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | MSCHE |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
Career Services | Yes |
Academic Counseling | Yes |
Accreditation | HLC |
School Spotlights: Three Popular Online MBA Programs
While college rankings are a great place to start your business school search, it can be helpful to dive deeper into real-world online MBA programs to get a better sense of what’s out there. We’ve spotlighted three top-tier online MBA programs from AACSB-accredited schools below to give you an idea of what to look for in a quality program.
University of North Carolina – Kenan-Flagler
UNC’s Kenan Flager-School of Business has an online MBA program with five different concentrations. Qualified students can choose from over 25 electives while specializing in entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, strategy and consulting, data analytics, and decision-making. The program builds essential business strategy and management skills while introducing learners to economics and organizational leadership principles. The school’s extensive alumni network also helps connect soon-to-be graduates with potential employers, establishing a strong professional network that sets this course of study apart from other online MBA programs.
Specifically designed for working professionals, UNC delivers most coursework components entirely online, offering classes in business modeling, corporate strategy, financial analysis, and a host of other subjects. All students must complete two in-person summits held at the school’s Chapel Hill campus and select cities worldwide. These immersive experiences expose students to new business perspectives and help strengthen the interaction between colleagues and faculty.
University of Southern California
USC offers a cross-disciplinary online MBA that draws on technical knowledge in marketing finance, accounting, entrepreneurship, and management. Students learn how these disciplines intersect and how they can improve business strategies and corporate outcomes. Graduates of the program step into roles as forward-thinking business leaders who can design effective, practical solutions across industries. The fully accredited program entails 51 credits and includes instruction in managerial techniques, business fundamentals, environmental sustainability, and finance.
Students can take classes to choose and access course material using a blend of synchronous and asynchronous online learning tools. USC uses a semester system, which means learners can begin the program in the fall or spring, enrolling in 15-week classes. Within this system, students move through the program with a cohort of peers who provide support and additional interaction opportunities. USC also provides one-on-one career advising services to all its students.
University of Florida
At the University of Florida, students can earn an MBA online along two different tracks designed to accommodate a wide range of circumstances: a 16-month option and a 24-month option. The 16-month track offers an accelerated path to graduation for students who hold an undergraduate degree in business or a closely related field. The 24-month track casts a wider net and allows for more flexibility in study and timing. Both options result in the same degree and administer the same menu of courses covering financial management, international marketing, organizational behavior, and entrepreneurship.
Housed within USC’s Warrington College of Business, this course of study uses cohorts comprised of ~50 students that offer a small group experience within an interactive online learning environment. The program uses asynchronous tools for maximum convenience – students can access content and complete assignments whenever they choose. USC administers all program requirements virtually, but students must attend an in-person orientation session before beginning a course of study.
Online MBA Programs Near You
While many online programs will allow you to enroll no matter where you live, getting an education in your area can help you complete clinical requirements, access on-campus resources, and network with other local business professionals. Use the guides below to find top online MBA programs in your state.
- Online MBA Programs in California (CA)
- Online MBA Programs in Florida (FA)
- Online MBA Programs in Georgia (GA)
- Online MBA Programs in Michigan (MI)
- Online MBA Programs in New York (NY)
- Online MBA Programs in North Carolina (NC)
- Online MBA Programs in Ohio (OH)
- Online MBA Programs in Texas (TX)
- Online MBA Programs in Virginia (VA)
Common Qualities of the Best Online MBA Programs
There are a ton of business schools and online MBA programs out there. You can narrow your search by looking for common qualities often shared by the top programs. This helps establish some clear parameters and ensures that you complete a solid, reputable course of study that will pay off in the future. Here are a few key indicators to keep in mind.
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AACSB Accreditation
This is one of the most important characteristics to look for. Programmatic accreditation from the AACSB is no substitute for institutional accreditation (every potential school should have that), but it does demonstrate additional clout and quality. The best online MBA programs will hold this credential because it provides additional backing specific to business and management.
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Professional Specializations
Many students earn a generalist MBA, but you can advance your career even further if you choose a specialization that deepens expertise and expands your profile. With that in mind, it’s worth considering schools that give you some options. We detail some of those options later in this guide. If you already work in finance or entrepreneurship, for example, pursuing a course of study that supports those interests can go a long way.
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Resources and Support
Most schools will have some services in this area, but the best online MBA programs showcase their ability to support students (especially online learners) throughout their studies. In this regard, things to look for include professional development tools, built-in alumni networks, technology resources, robust fieldwork placements, and career services for soon-to-be graduates.
3 Best Reasons to Earn an MBA Online
Obtaining the skills and knowledge you need to advance your business career is easier and more accessible than ever, thanks to new technologies and online learning tools. The best MBA online programs provide quality training from industry experts with built-in options for customization. Also, you will enjoy the following benefits and advantages:
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Flexibility
These programs stand among the most convenient and flexible options out there. Designed with busy learners and working professionals in mind, online MBA programs can accommodate various circumstances. This means you can study without any personal or professional hiccups, graduating quickly so you can put your degree to good use.
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Diversity
Business and corporate enterprise are more globalized than ever. The most successful leaders aren’t just aware of this; they encourage it by hiring, interacting, and working with people from all walks of life. Earning an MBA online prepares you for this reality by transcending national and geographic boundaries. You will study with a diverse group of colleagues that reflects real-world work conditions.
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Affordability
Online MBA programs tend to be quite cheaper than the traditional, brick-and-mortar alternatives. Tuition rates vary by individual program, of course, but this approach could save you money in the long run. For example, many schools extend a flat rate to online learners and sometimes forgo many of the fees often associated with in-person education.
Popular Types of Online MBA Programs
To accommodate different starting places and diverse circumstances, most schools offer several different ways to earn your MBA online. The program types discussed below are usually tailored to fit unique needs. If you’re concerned that your situation might make more school difficult, rest assured – there’s a viable starting place for everyone.
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Executive Online MBA Programs
Theoretically, you can become a top business executive with an MBA or MBA specialization. These programs fast-track that path and are designed for working professionals with some corporate experience. They typically offer evening courses (if synchronous) and blend traditional business programming with instruction in executive-level leadership and management.
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Accelerated/1-Year Online MBA Programs
These programs attract learners who want to complete their studies quickly and have few outside commitments. Most programs graduate students in 16 months or less and administer an intensive curriculum covering a broad range of topics in less time. Because of their rigorous nature, many accelerated programs call for an undergraduate degree in business.
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Part-Time Online MBA Programs
If you are already working in business, want the career advancement opportunities an MBA provides, and are in no rush to graduate, this could be the best option. These part-time MBA programs move at a slower pace to accommodate professional commitments and family responsibilities.
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No-GMAT MBA Programs
These online MBA programs fast-track the admissions process by waiving traditional test requirements. Many programs require the GMAT (a standardized management test), but if you’re pressed for time or don’t have a business or management background, this could be the way to go. Some programs might call for additional admission requirements in some cases.
Top Online MBA Program Specializations
One of the great things about earning an MBA is the ability to specialize. The best MBA online programs offer specializations that correlate with in-demand skill sets and broader business management trends. Specializing can set you apart from the competition when you graduate. Check out some of the options below.
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Online MBA in Accounting
Online MBA programs in accounting provide foundational instruction in business management principles and emphasize how those principles inform bookkeeping and financial decision making. They prepare you for roles in professional accounting, auditing, and finance management. The material usually covers managerial accounting theories, taxation, and cost analysis.
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Online MBA in Business Analytics
Earning an MBA online in business analytics helps you build the core skills necessary to manage complex datasets and make data-driven business decisions. Most programs in this area involve high-level instruction in statistical analysis and methods of quantitative reasoning. They also look at real-world applications in data science, machine learning, scaling operations, and forecast modeling.
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Online MBA in Cybersecurity
If you have a background in information technology and an interest in implementing security measures to enhance business outcomes, this could be the perfect path for you. Online cybersecurity MBA programs cultivate a technical knowledge base in data integrity, privacy protection, and risk assessment. Courses typically cover cyber warfare and security breaches, infrastructure design, and corporate compliance.
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Online MBA in Economics
The best MBA online economics programs qualify you for roles in public policy, consumer behavior, and market analysis. They offer training in the history and development of economic theory and its division into macro and micro configurations. Students also receive tools and analysis methods for better understanding global economic trends, market exchange, and investment protocols.
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Online MBA in Entrepreneurship
Pursuing an online MBA with an emphasis in entrepreneurship supports a broad skill set in small business management, franchising and licensing, and venture capital. Studies in business and entrepreneurship look at improving sales techniques and identifying new and emerging markets. Most programs do this by offering courses in commercial innovation, equity strategy, digital marketing, and product development.
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Online MBA in Finance
Online MBA programs in finance begin with the same foundations as the accounting specialization but look to how to finance principles function in the life of a thriving business. They prepare you for work in investment banking, financial advising, budget analysis, and many other professions. Topics may include international finance, portfolio management, real estate, and trading strategy.
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Online Master's in Healthcare
Healthcare master’s online programs look at how business administration and management strategy can support quality healthcare delivery. They build core competencies in critical decision-making and healthcare leadership. Graduates from these programs often find work as organizational leaders, medical facility managers, and healthcare administrators. They also acquire soft skills in communication, professional ethics, and organizational management.
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Online MBA in Human Resources
This degree path builds advanced skills in human resource management at scale. Students learn to analyze and interpret data that will help improve employee outcomes. They also look at how to navigate compensation and benefits issues in a range of organizations. Graduates can develop employee training programs rooted in adaptability, cultural diversity, and sustainability.
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Online MBA in Information Technology
Graduates from these online MBA programs stand fully prepared to lead teams of IT and data science professionals within large organizations. Instruction typically involves training in project management, human capital management, and information security. Many degree recipients work in big data and use their expertise to optimize enterprise systems to integrate new and emerging technologies.
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Online MBA in International Business
This pathway focuses on business and management from a global perspective. It looks at the infrastructure and regulatory processes that undergird international trade and multinational commerce in our globalized economy. Graduates in this area fulfill various professional roles in corporate auditing, government, and real estate development, among other areas.
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Online MBA in Leadership
Earning a leadership MBA online prepares you for high-level management and oversight roles across the industry. It trains you to lead effectively and successfully within business contexts, including corporate and small business settings. Along the way, you will learn how to manage human capital, develop clear benchmarks that support your leadership style, and motivate teams at scale.
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Online MBA in Marketing
Marketers and advertisers plan promotional campaigns and devise new ways to sell their organization’s products and tap into new target audiences. This degree builds the knowledge and key skills you need for management roles in this area. It looks at market strategy, consumer behavior, branding, and revenue forecasting. There are also an increasing number of online digital marketing MBA programs for students wanting to specialize in social media marketing, search engine marketing (SEM), and other forms of online marketing.
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Online MBA in Operations Management
Professionals with this degree type usually optimize and oversee the day-to-day operations of their company. An online MBA in this area offers expert training in policy formulation, staff scheduling and delegation, human resources, and employee training. Additional instruction in managerial economics or supply chain management could also be involved.
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Online MBA in Project Management
This route develops the specialized skills you need to fulfill various project management roles in business contexts. It builds soft communication skills, critical thinking, and organization, and develops core competencies in statistics, brand optimization, data analytics, and microeconomics. It also cultivates your management and delegation capabilities.
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Online MBA in Sports Management
Graduates with a sports management MBA online typically work in the sports industry’s highest levels as franchise owners and front office managers. A typical course of study looks at how business management’s basic principles can be effectively implemented in sports contexts. Common courses may include sports law and management and finance for sports enterprises.
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Online MBA in Strategy
If you’re a big picture person who delights in analyzing how all the small details work together, this could be a good option for you. It builds macro-level skills in problem-solving and market behavior. You’ll learn how to be both a leader and manager who sets key organizational benchmarks well ahead of the game.
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Online MBA in Supply Chain Management
Supply chain management is closely related to general operations but focuses on product storage, transportation, and distribution. These online MBA programs develop hard logistics, scheduling and planning, production methods, material sourcing, and budgeting. It also looks at how to reconcile localized demand with broader cost/benefit concerns.
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Online MBA in Sustainability
This program focuses on business ethics and how corporate functioning’s daily rigors can be optimized to support social and environmental sustainability. This specialization qualifies you for work in consulting, creative direction, human resources, and engineering. Core instruction covers climate law, fiscal responsibility, and multicultural awareness.