If you live in Florida and want to advance your business career, getting an MBA can expand your options as well as increase your earning potential. Not only do top positions have a faster-than-average growth rate in Florida, but individuals with MBAs can also command significantly higher salaries. An online program is usually a cost-effective and flexible way to get your MBA, as many people continue working while completing their degrees.
This guide outlines the top online MBAs in Florida for 2022 along with state-specific resources and scholarships currently available. You’ll also learn about some of the specializations offered within these MBA programs in addition to discovering how online graduate programs work and what to expect in terms of length and content.
Top Online MBA Programs in Florida in 2022
The top online MBA programs in Florida for 2022 offer flexibility, value, student support, and high-quality curriculums. They also give options for specializations, make learning convenient for busy professionals, and promote networking and collaboration.
The University of Florida’s MBA program offers asynchronous classes that fit around your work schedule and life. The program also integrates hands-on learning experiences and real-world projects into its online format. For even more flexibility, there are both one-year and two-year programs. Applicants need real-world business experience to apply to the program, and there are several degree combinations available, including those combining law, engineering, and real estate.
To apply, you must provide a personal statement and letters of recommendation and answer some specific questions. Your GMAT scores and official undergraduate transcript are also required, and you must show previous work experience to be a competitive applicant.
Program Highlights:
Credits: 48 credits
Length: 16 months or 2 years
Cost: $26,000/year (resident); $61,000/year (non-resident)
Format: Fully-online
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business Accreditation (program); Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (school)
Specialization Options
- Finance
- Human Capital
- Marketing
- Strategy
- Supply Chain
- Real Estate
- Business Analytics
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
If you’re looking to hone your analytical and creative skills in the business world, consider the MBA from the University of South Florida. This program was designed for professionals from a wide variety of backgrounds, and most students work while enrolled. Students choose from five specializations or opt for a more general management MBA. The program also offers networking opportunities, resources to help online students succeed academically, and industry-specific classes.
To apply, students need a relevant undergraduate degree and work experience in their chosen specialization. Additionally, you must submit your GMAT scores, a statement of purpose, resume, and letters of reference. You’ll also need to submit a transcript and have a 3.3 GPA or higher in your undergraduate coursework.
Program Highlights:
Credits: 48 credits
Length: 2 to 3 years
Cost: $750/credit
Format: Fully-online
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business Accreditation (program); Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (school)
Specialization Options
- Compliance, Risk, and Anti-money Laundering
- Cybersecurity
- Data analytics
- Finance
- Healthcare Analytics
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
St. Thomas University’s MBA develops personal leadership skills to allow students to engage with best management practices and become leaders in any business profession. Since the program is 100% online, its curriculum is designed for an optimal e-learning experience. classes are synchronous, but the course schedule fits around a typical 9-5 schedule. Online classes are interactive with small and large group discussions as well as class exercises.
To apply, students need an undergraduate degree and some real-world experience in a business profession. Successful applicants have GPAs over 2.33 and relevant work experience. If your GPA is above 2.5, you don’t need to submit your GMAT scores.
Program Highlights:
Credits: 36
Length: 12 months
Cost: $19,980/program
Format: Fully-online
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Accreditation (school)
Specialization Options
- Generalized MBA
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Hodges University offers a 100% online MBA with around-the-clock access to faculty. This program is flexible, and its curriculum focuses on developing leadership skills and industry-specific knowledge as well as growing your existing network and generating new opportunities for your professional career. The curriculum was designed for an online format, so it offers a high-quality education for e-learning students. In fact, it’s named one of the top 25 best online MBAs in the United States!
To apply, students need an undergraduate degree in a relevant field and must submit GMAT scores, an official transcript, and letters of recommendation. Previous work experience might make you a more competitive applicant as well.
Program Highlights:
Credits: 42
Length: 18 months
Cost: $830/credit
Format: Fully-online
Accreditation: Accredited by International Accreditation Council for Business Education (program); Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Accreditation (school)
Specialization Options
- Generalized MBA
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Florida International University, through its FIU College of Business, was one of the first to offer an online program. Its MBA curriculum offers class engagement opportunities through small group discussions and in-class exercises. Classes are synchronous because of the hands-on aspects of the course design, but the course schedule is designed for busy professionals. FIU’s MBA offers over ten specializations to help you customize the program to your specific needs. There are also generous scholarship packages available.
To apply, you need an undergraduate degree in a business-related field and a 3.0 GPA. Along with presenting your official transcript from your undergraduate degree, you must also submit your professional resume and statement of purpose. GMAT scores are optional but can help show your knowledge of the field.
Program Highlights:
Credits: 42
Length: 18 to 33 months
Cost: $1,000/credit
Format: Fully-online
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business Accreditation (program); Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Accreditation (school)
Specialization Options
- Business Data Analytics
- Business Law
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation
- Finance
- International Business
- Leadership
- Marketing Channel Strategy
- Human Resources
- Real Estate
- Sports Management
- Strategic Negotiations
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Career Placement | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Popular Online MBA Specializations in Florida
Because of the many online MBA programs available through Florida’s colleges and universities, there are also a good variety of specializations available. The most popular specializations are in-demand due to the abundant business job openings in Florida. Learn more about the six most popular specializations below and see schools offering quality programs in each.
MBA with an Emphasis in Healthcare Management and Administration
Healthcare management and administration is a great choice for those looking to take on managerial roles in the Florida healthcare system. An MBA with this specialization is usually designed for those with some experience working in healthcare administration who want to advance to a management or leadership position.
Examples of Online MBA Programs in Florida with this Specialization
University of South Florida (Fully-online)
Florida Southern College (Fully-online)
Florida Atlantic University (Fully-online)
Human Resource Management
An MBA with a human resource management specialization offers a great path both for those looking to enter or advance in human resources. In Florida specifically, there are plenty of HR job openings across a variety of different sectors from real estate to healthcare.
Examples of Online MBA Programs in Florida with this Specialization
University of Florida (Fully-online; On-campus)
University of West Florida (Fully-online)
Florida International University (Fully-online)
Information Technology
Information technology is a great MBA specialization for anyone working in the tech sector who would like to transition into a leadership role. Some technical knowledge is usually required for this specialization, though some MBAs may be appropriate for those looking to enter this field.
Examples of Online MBA Programs in Florida with this Specialization
University of South Florida (Fully-online)
Florida International University (Fully-online)
Florida Atlantic University (Fully-online)
Finance
A finance MBA is one of the most popular MBAs and one that is often necessary for promotions in financial career fields. This is a great MBA for anyone looking to advance their career and increase the number of jobs available to them in the finance field.
Examples of Online MBA Programs in Florida with this Specialization
University of Florida (Fully-online; On-campus)
University of South Florida (Fully-online)
Florida International University (Fully-online)
Management
As a more general specialization, a business administration MBA gives access to a variety of paths for degree-holders. Graduates with this MBA often advance into managerial roles. In Florida specifically, there is an increase in demand for management roles since more companies have moved to the Sunshine State in the last five years.
Examples of Online MBA Programs in Florida with this Specialization
St. Thomas University (Fully-online)
Hodges University (Fully-online)
Florida Southern College (Fully-online)
Marketing
An MBA in marketing is an ideal degree for anyone looking to advance their career in marketing or to enter the field. This degree also features a variety of sub-specializations like SEO, social media marketing, and marketing management.
Examples of Online MBA Programs in Florida with this Specialization
University of Florida (Fully-online; On-campus)
Florida International University (Fully-online)
Florida Atlantic University (Fully-online)
Frequently Asked Questions About Earning your MBA Online in Florida
What is the average cost of an MBA program in Florida?
The average cost for an MBA in Florida varies greatly. In general, online programs run by in-state, public universities are the most affordable. However, scholarships, employer reimbursement programs, and other financial aid considerations can greatly decrease the cost even for private or out-of-state programs. When looking at program costs, consider the financial aid opportunities as well as the upfront tuition cost.
What does an MBA admissions process in Florida look like?
The MBA admissions process varies from school to school, though some requirements are almost universal. Most accredited programs ask for undergraduate degree transcripts, letters of recommendation, and some sort of personal statement or short-answer question responses. Read the directions carefully, so you know what is required. For example, the University of Florida requires both a personal statement and responses to short answer questions while the University of South Florida only requires a statement of purpose.
How quickly can I earn an online MBA in Florida?
How quickly you can earn your MBA depends on a variety of factors, including if you’re taking courses on a full-time or part-time basis. Since many MBAs are designed for those with a typical 9-5 schedule, most students take them on a part-time basis and finish within two years. You might be able to finish faster if you increase your course load, but this depends on the program.
Is the GMAT required to get into an MBA program in Florida?
The GMAT is a standardized test required by many MBA programs across the country. However, not every MBA program requests your GMAT scores. Read each program’s requirements carefully, so you know if you must submit these scores. For example, the University of Florida requires them while the University of Miami does not. Some programs, like the University of South Florida, allow you to waive the GMAT requirement if you have specific work experience.
In Florida, what is the ROI on an MBA vs a bachelor’s degree in business?
On average, MBA holders earn more than those with only bachelor’s degrees. This ROI isn’t just in the short term, either, as MBA holders get more promotions and increase their earning potential across their working careers. In Miami, for example, someone with an MBA makes $80,000 a year on average while someone with a bachelor’s in business makes $59,000. The same is true in Tampa, where bachelor’s degree holders make $57,000 and MBA holders make $78,000.
What accreditations should I look for in an online MBA program in Florida?
Any program you apply to must be properly accredited. Accreditation is usually listed on a program’s website. If an in-person program is accredited, that means the online program is too. Accreditation means a program offers a high-quality education.
Financial Aid and Scholarships for MBA Students in Florida
The financial toll of graduate school can be minimized with the right financial aid options. Some of the most common include student loans, employer tuition assistance, assistantships, scholarships, and research grants. Explore our financial aid guide for a more in-depth look at each option.
For MBA programs specifically, the most common financial aid options are employer tuition assistance and scholarships. If you work a full-time job, check out our employer tuition assistance guide to find out how to discuss tuition assistance with your employer. For scholarships, consider general ones and those specific to your state or to those pursuing MBAs since these programs typically have less competition. Below is a list of some Florida-specific scholarships for MBA students to get you started.
Also, check out our scholarships guide for more scholarships along with tips to make your applications stand out.
University of Florida General Scholarship
Honorably Discharged Graduate Assistance Program
Jose Marti Scholarship Challenge Grant Fund
University of South Florida Scholarships
Professional MBA Online Scholarships from Florida International University
Salary Potential for MBA Grads in Florida
The temperature in Florida isn’t the only thing that’s hot. The job market is too. In fact, Florida jobs are growing at three times the national average. When looking specifically at MBA grads, there are many job openings with above-average salaries. Metro areas like Tampa, Fort Myers, and Miami have a variety of job openings for those with MBAs across all sectors. How many job openings there are and how much you can expect to make differs by MBA specialization. To give you an idea of what to expect, the chart below outlines the growth rate, average annual openings, and average mean wage for five of the most popular jobs for MBA-holders in Florida.
| Job Growth Rate (2020-2030) | Average Annual Openings (2020-2030) | Annual Mean Wage (2021) | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Accountant |
22.7% |
9,560 |
$76,320 |
|
Human Resource Manager |
20.9% |
790 |
$118,520 |
|
Financial Manager |
30.5% |
3,800 |
$137,890 |
|
Market Research Analyst |
38.4% |
7,040 |
68,620 |
|
Marketing Manager |
23.8% |
1,500 |
$150,760 |