If you live in Ohio and have been contemplating an online MBA, you’ve come to the right place. With this guide you’ll quickly discover the best online MBA programs in Ohio, with specifics about length, cost, and admission requirements. We’ll also walk you through popular specializations and share networking resources. Finally, we’ll link you to scholarships to help you fund your degree. Whether you’re in Columbus, Cincinnati, Cleveland, or somewhere elseplace, tap into these top-notch Ohio online MBA programs and propel your career forward.
Top Online MBA Programs in Ohio in 2023
If you’re ready to invest in an online MBA program in Ohio, you want to be sure your choice will deliver a good return on your investment. We’ve considered cost, quality, flexibility, and student support to help you leverage your MBA degree to advance your career. Keep reading to discover top-ranked, high-quality Ohio online MBA programs that stand out in 2023.
The University of Cincinnati offers an online or on-campus MBA program that blends academic learning with real-world experience to give students the skills to tackle modern business challenges. Students will gain strategic leadership skills, decision-making skills, and core understanding and knowledge in accounting, economics, leadership, finance, operations management, business analytics, information technology, and marketing. Students can customize their degree by choosing concentrations and electives in health care administration, health care finance, health care operations, health care policy and regulation, marketing, corporate taxation, and individual taxation. The degree was designed around working professionals, so students can choose to study part-time or full-time.
Program Highlights:
MBA
- Credits: 35-48
- Length: 1 year
- Cost: $1,000/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
Ohio University offers an online, experience-driven MBA that helps students develop business and leadership expertise. This program is taught by experienced faculty through a curriculum tailored for online learning. Students can choose between nine different concentrations in a variety of subjects to give them a specialized degree to make them more marketable. Students can expect to take courses in business analytics, managerial finance, organizational behavior and human resource management, operations management, accounting for executives, strategic marketing, information systems, business strategy, and more. To be accepted to the program, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and two years of experience to apply.
Program Highlights:
MBA
- Credits: 35
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $1,032/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
Cleveland State University offers an accelerated, online MBA which allows students to graduate in as little as 12 months. This program focuses on strategic management skills that will allow graduates to advance in their careers. All courses are designed to meet CSU’s Quality Matters certification, which is a faculty-centered review process that is designed to certify the quality of online and blended courses. The program was designed for students to progress in a linear sequence, with each semester mapped out. Though many universities have recently waived test scores, CSU still requires competitive GMAT or GRE scores as part of the application process.
Program Highlights:
Accelerated MBA
- Credits: 30
- Length: 1 year
- Cost: $1,198/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
Defiance College offers an MBA degree with concentrations in leadership and sports management. This program emphasizes practical and working knowledge of a wide variety of leadership approaches, an ethical philosophy of leadership, and an appreciation of social, legal, and global issues. Students will learn the value of current leadership theory and practice and have developed an ethical context in which this theory and practice may be applied. Courses include organizational management and leadership, accounting issues, organizational marketing, statistics and research methods in managerial decision-making, and political, social, and ethical issues in business management.
Program Highlights:
MBA
- Credits: 36
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $548/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
Ashland University offers an online MBA program with the option of 12 different specializations, making it one of the most flexible programs in the university. This program can be taken over a period of 18 months, 2 years, or 3 years depending on the student’s needs. Students can expect to take courses in operations management, financial management, managerial accounting, marketing management, strategic planning and policy analysis, and organizational design and change management. Students can add a unique specialization for just three additional courses on top of the general curriculum.
Program Highlights:
MBA
- Credits: 30-39
- Length: 1.5-3 years
- Cost: $1,155/credit
- Mode: Online, Hybrid
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
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 | 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 | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
Popular Online MBA Specializations in Ohio
By now, you’ve seen that many online MBA programs in Ohio offer a variety of specializations. These specializations help you personalize your education to your specific career interests and goals. Below you will learn more about popular specializations for online MBA programs and Ohio schools that offer that specialization.
MBA with an Emphasis in Finance
According to The Princeton Review, an MBA in Finance or Finance Leadership is consistently one of the most in-demand specializations. Finance is relevant in a wide range of industries, making it a desirable specialization for those looking to excel in positions such as a chief financial officer, financial manager, investment banker, financial analyst, or auditor, to name a few. It also has a faster than expected growth rate, adding 17% more jobs according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In addition to Ohio University’s online MBA with this specialization, you can also find a specialization in finance at these
schools.
Examples of Online MBA Programs in Ohio with this Specialization
MBA with an Emphasis in Entrepreneurship
A specialization in entrepreneurship can help you start and manage your own business or land a leadership role at an existing company. These programs help develop hard and soft skills to prepare you for a variety of tasks from securing capital to scaling and growing a business. In addition to learning the skills needed to start your own company, this specialization also primes you for a role as an operations manager.
Examples of Online MBA Programs in Ohio with this Specialization
MBA with an Emphasis in Marketing
An MBA with a concentration in marketing ranked seventh in The Princeton Review’s list of most in-demand MBA specializations. Marketing plays a role in every industry, so you won’t be limited in your choice of field or location. These programs prepare students for positions including marketing research analysts, brand managers, and public relations managers. Marketing is a high-paying field; the 2021 US average salary for a marketing manager was $133,380 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Examples of Online MBA Programs in Ohio with this Specialization
MBA with an Emphasis in Leadership
If you aspire to be an outstanding leader, an MBA with an emphasis in leadership equips you to achieve your goal. These programs prepare students with courses on conflict resolution, leadership management, and managerial skills. This is another specialization that isn’t industry specific, allowing you a lot of freedom and flexibility in your career.
Examples of Online MBA Programs in Ohio with this Specialization
MBA with an Emphasis in Healthcare Management & Administration
Healthcare is a major field in the U.S., and an MBA in Healthcare prepares students for roles managing hospitals and other healthcare facilities, working for insurance companies, or working for pharmaceutical companies. The job outlook is promising, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting 32% growth from 2020-2030. For those already working in healthcare or with an interest in breaking into the field, this specialization offers a perfect opportunity.
Examples of Online MBA Programs in Ohio with this Specialization
MBA with an Emphasis in Accounting
If the only certain things in life are death and taxes, then an accounting specialization seems like a good bet. An MBA specializing in accounting doesn’t limit you to only preparing tax returns. Other roles this degree can help you land include a business development manager, chief financial officer, financial manager, or management analyst.
Examples of Online MBA Programs in Ohio with this Specialization
Frequently Asked Questions About Earning Your MBA Online in Ohio
What is the average cost of an MBA program in Ohio?
Tuition costs vary widely for online MBA programs in Ohio. Youngstown State is the cheapest for in-state students, at $13,500 for the entire program. Factors that affect the cost of tuition include being an Ohio resident, attending a public versus private institution, and the amount of financial aid and scholarship money you are eligible for. The average for the five programs featured here is $24,650, which is a little lower than the estimated average for a wider selection of online Ohio MBA degrees.
What does an MBA admissions process in Ohio look like?
General requirements for most online MBA programs in Ohio include letters of reference, an updated resume, undergraduate transcripts, and, in some cases, an essay. Many, if not most, programs expect applicants to have related professional experience. Programs like Cleveland State have strict spring and fall starts and a very linear progression through the program, so pay attention to deadlines if you choose this or a similar program. Others have rolling admissions, so you can apply when it best fits your schedule.
How quickly can I earn an online MBA in Ohio?
Several programs, including some highlighted above, provide accelerated one-year options for an Ohio online MBA. If that feels too intense for you, then the average length for a part-time MBA is two years. Obviously, this varies based on your individual capacity and ability to complete coursework. Estimates range from 18 months to 3 years for nonaccelerated programs.
Is the GMAT required to get into an MBA program in Ohio?
It depends. Many programs don’t require the GMAT, including the University of Cincinnati, Cedarville University, Ohio University, Tiffin University, and Findlay University. For schools like Wright State University, the GMAT requirement depends on your undergraduate GPA. Others such as Cleveland State University and Ashland University do require a GMAT score for admission, but they also provide waivers for test scores if you meet certain criteria. Professional experience and exemplary undergrad performance both help in obtaining a waiver.
In Ohio, what is the ROI on an MBA vs a bachelor’s degree in business?
With an online MBA in Ohio, your earning potential could see an increase of 20% to 38% according to U.S. News & World Report. The Graduate Management Admission Council’s 2022 report found the median salary offered to new MBA grads in 2022 to be $115,000, compared to $75,000 for grads with bachelor’s degrees. ZipRecruiter reports that the average salary for a student with a bachelor’s in business administration in Ohio is $55,546/year, compared to $75,263/year for an MBA.
What accreditations should I look for in an online MBA program in Ohio?
When it comes to business schools, accreditation from the AACSBis the premier accreditation. According to Cleveland State University’s MBA accreditation page, only 5% of business schools receive this coveted distinction. The accreditation assures the value of your education by guaranteeing high quality faculty, coursework, and employment opportunities post-graduation. Online programs with this distinction are comparable to in-person programs with it, and they are better than in-person programs without it!
Financial Aid and Scholarships for MBA Students in Ohio
If paying for your degree is a major concern, start with our financial aid guide to make an online MBA more achievable. Below we’ve highlighted scholarships to help with your online MBA program in Ohio; to view a more robust list, check out our scholarships guide. You’ll also want to look into university-specific scholarships once you’ve decided where to apply. The FAFSA shows you which grants and loans you’re eligible for. And remember to talk to your current employer about tuition reimbursement programs and pitch the value you’ll be adding to the company if they help pay for your degree. See our employer tuition assistance guide to get started.
Be Bold No Essay Scholarship
The Be Bold No Essay Scholarship asks you to build a profile on bold.org and potentially earn $25,000—if your profile is determined to be the boldest. According to the website this means demonstrating that you are determined, earnest, and moving. Leverage those marketing skills to land this scholarship.
Cleveland State Graduate Scholarships
Cleveland State has multiple scholarships available for graduate students. Some are specific to the MBA program.
Future of Connectivity Essay Scholarship
This scholarship hinges on an essay about the potential of internet-enabled devices. Use your imagination to dream about the future and earn some cash!
McKinney Family Fund
The McKinney Family Fund is an Ohio-specific scholarship that can be applied to your online MBA. See criteria and application details here.
Ohio University’s Corporate Partners Scholarship
Ohio University offers a $5,000 scholarship if you are employed at one of their corporate partners; see the list of corporate partners here. Corporate partner employees are also eligible for a $1,500 scholarship toward their first online graduate business certificate, which can count toward your online MBA program at the university.
Salary Potential for MBA Grads in Ohio
The job growth rate for all the featured MBA jobs is at or above average. According to Ohio’s Job Outlook Report, across the state growth is fastest for financial and health services managers. Near Cleveland, these are also the two fastest growing positions. The job market for MBA grads in Ohio looks good. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Ohio residents are generally making above the median average wage in these roles.
| Job Growth Rate (2020-2030) | Average Annual Openings (2020-2030) | Annual Mean Wage (2021) | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Marketing Manager |
6.2% |
620 |
$ 141,400 |
|
Financial Manager |
15.5% |
2,080 |
$ 138,480 |
|
Business Operations Manager |
6.4% |
6,020 |
$108,980 |
|
Health Services Manager |
28.6% |
1,710 |
$ 110,510 |
|
Human Resources Manager |
7% |
360 |
$ 131,770 |
Resources for Online MBA Students and Professionals in Ohio
Entrepreneurship Specialization
Finance
Human Resource Management
Ohio Society for Human Resource Management
This organization has 25 local chapters and 11 student chapters.
Marketing
The American Marketing Association has three local chapters in Ohio: Cincinnati, Columbus, and Northeast Ohio