Online MBA in Operations Management: Reviewing Top Schools

Degree Overview: What to Expect from an MBA in OM Degree Program

An online MBA in Operations Management degree program mixes core business education courses with specialized training in operations strategy, supply chain logistics, and process improvement. Students take foundational MBA courses in areas like finance, marketing, and leadership, followed by elective courses in project management, quality control, and data analytics.

These programs typically require completion of 36 to 54 credits and can be completed in 18 to 36 months. Many courses are delivered online through asynchronous lectures, group projects, and live virtual sessions. Admissions departments for most MBA programs require a bachelor’s degree and professional experience, and they might waive GMAT/GRE scores for qualified applicants. Tuition varies widely, but the total often ranges from $30,000 to $90,000. MBA in OM degree programs are designed for working professionals. They equip students with skills needed to boost efficiency, manage teams, and lead strategic operations across industries.

Inside Popular Online MBA in Operations Management Degree Programs

Below, we describe two top programs from accredited U.S. universities to help you explore what an online MBA in Operations Management degree program looks like. Each one offers unique features – from cohort-based formats and global immersions to flexible pacing and advanced supply chain training.

Tuition for Online MBA in OM Degree Programs

Tuition for these programs is typically charged on a per-credit basis, so the total cost depends on the number of credits required. Some expenses are fixed (like certain fees), while others are variable (like tuition per credit). The online format of a program can influence its cost. Many schools charge the same rate for in-state and out-of-state online students, and they can save on housing and/or transportation costs. Key factors include the program’s length, cost per credit, any required residencies, and technology or course fees. Students should always check what’s included in the tuition cost and whether financial aid can be applied to an online MBA in OM degree program.

The tuition figures above were taken from the schools’ official program pages for the 2024-2025 academic year. Costs might exclude fees and are subject to change. Students should always verify the latest tuition rates on a school’s website before applying to a specific program.

FAQs about MBA in Operations Management Degree Programs

Q: Why is accreditation important for an online MBA in Operations Management degree program?

A:Accreditation is a stamp of quality and credibility. Attending an accredited business school (preferably with programmatic accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business – AACSB) ensures that an MBA degree program meets high academic standards. This matters for the education that you receive plus a future employer’s confidence and possible transfer of credits. Many employers verify accreditation when evaluating online degree programs, and students at accredited schools are eligible for federal financial aid. So, a reputable accreditation proves that an MBA in OM degree program is rigorous and widely respected.

Q: Can I work full-time while pursuing an online MBA in Operations Management degree?

A: Yes;most online MBA in OM students work full-time while enrolled in a program. Online MBA degree programs are specifically designed for working professionals, as they offer flexible scheduling and part-time pacing. Students should expect to spend approximately 15 hours per week on coursework; they can usually schedule it in addition to the responsibilities of a job. 

Many students find that being employed is an advantage; they can immediately apply what they learn to work and showcase strong time management skills to employers. Students should be prepared to juggle responsibilities and stay disciplined with their study time.

Q: What are the typical admission requirements for an online MBA in Operations Management degree program?

A: Admissions criteria for these programs generally mirror those of other MBA concentrations. Students need a bachelor’s degree (not necessarily in business) and (typically) a minimum 3.0 GPA. Admissions officials for many of these programs prefer applicants with two to five years of work experience, since operations management is practical in nature.

Standardized tests like the GMAT or GRE might be required, though plenty of online MBA degree programs offer GMAT waivers for experienced professionals. Students should expect to submit a resume, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation and possibly sit for an interview. Note that strong analytical skills and leadership potential in your background will bolster your application.

Q: How do employers view an online MBA in Operations Management degree?

A: Employers today generally respect online MBA degree programs – especially if they are from accredited, well-known colleges or universities. In operations management fields, your skill set and ability to improve processes matter most to employers. An online MBA in OM degree program teaches advanced operations strategy, supply chain management, and leadership skills – and proves that you can balance work with school, which is a testament to your dedication.

In many cases, your diploma won’t note that it was earned online. As long as the program is reputable, employers recognize an online MBA credential as equivalent to one that was earned on campus. The key is to leverage your new knowledge and network so you can advance into roles like operations manager, supply chain director, or project leader.

Q: Should I pursue an MBA in Operations Management or a specialized Master of Supply Chain Management degree?

A: It depends on your career goals. An MBA in Operations Management degree program provides a broader business education (covering finance, marketing, strategy, etc.) with a focus on operations. It’s ideal if you want to develop as a well-rounded business leader who can oversee cross-functional teams – and it offers flexibility if you want to shift into other management roles or start your own business.

Conversely, a specialized Master of Supply Chain Management (or similar) degree program dives deeper into technical supply chain and logistics topics, usually in a shorter time frame. That could be great if you’re certain that you want to specialize in the supply chain field and you lack much experience. (Many such programs are open to newer graduates.)

In summary, an MBA in Operations Management degree is best for students who seek leadership roles and broad skills, while a Master of Supply Chain Management suits those who aim to be technical experts in that niche field.

Salary Trends: What Can You Do with an MBA in Operations Management Degree?

Earning this type of degree can lead to careers in leadership that are focused on efficiency, process improvement, and supply chain strategy. Graduates are equipped with skills in project management, analytics, quality control, and cross-functional leadership – which makes them well-suited for roles that keep businesses running smoothly. You might manage a production line, optimize a global supply chain, or lead consulting projects to improve organizational processes.

Many MBA in OM graduates obtain management positions that let them oversee teams and drive strategic initiatives to reduce costs and improve productivity. So, this type of MBA degree aligns with careers that require both broad business acumen and specialized expertise in operations or logistics.

Listed below are a few potential career paths for graduates with MBA in Operations Management degrees, along with career growth and salary data.

Note: These salary figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reflect national averages across industries. Actual salaries can vary by region, industry, and individual experience. An MBA in Operations Management degree can boost your earning potential by qualifying you for higher-level roles within these fields.

Resources for MBA in Operations Management Students and Professionals

• Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) – Formerly known as the Association for Supply Chain Management (APICS), ASCM is the leading professional organization for supply chain and operations management. It offers industry-recognized certifications (like Certified in Planning and Inventory Management – CPIM – and Certified Supply Chain Professional – CSCP), training workshops, networking events, and a wealth of articles and webinars to keep you updated on best practices in operations and logistics.
• Project Management Institute (PMI) – PMI is a global association for project management professionals. Many operations projects require strong project leadership, and PMI’s resources (like the PMBOK Guide) and certifications (like Project Management Professional – PMP and Certified Associate in Project Management – CAPM) help you sharpen your project management skills. The institute provides local chapters, online communities, and tools to improve how you plan and execute projects in an operations context.
• American Society for Quality (ASQ) – Quality and continuous improvement are core to operations success. ASQ is a hub for quality professionals that offers training and certifications (e.g., Six Sigma Green/Black Belt and Certified Quality Engineer – CQE). Members gain access to research articles, case studies, and benchmarking tools on topics like process improvement, Lean Six Sigma, and quality management systems – great for an MBA in OM professional who wants to boost their quality control expertise.
• Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) – A premier association for supply chain professionals, CSCMP provides educational events, conferences, and research publications. Their resources include the annual State of Logistics Report, networking through local roundtables, and a career center. It’s an ideal community to join for mentorship and to stay on top of trends in transportation, warehousing, and supply chain strategy as you advance in operations management.
• Supply Chain Dive – This is a free online news outlet that delivers daily updates and in-depth articles on supply chain and operations. Supply Chain Dive covers everything from procurement and logistics to manufacturing tech and labor issues. Subscribe to their newsletter to get bite-sized industry news (like disruptions, innovations, and policy changes) that can inform class discussions or strategic decisions at work.
• Harvard Business Review – Operations Articles – HBR’s magazine and website feature insightful articles and case studies on operations excellence, process re-engineering, and leadership. Search HBR for Operations Management topics to find pieces on lean manufacturing, supply chain resilience, and managing teams through change. These articles are written in a practical, accessible style and help bridge academic concepts with real-world business challenges.
• Lean Enterprise Institute (LEI) – LEI is a non-profit organization that teaches Lean thinking to improve processes and eliminate waste. It offers online workshops, webinars, and publications on topics like value stream mapping, Kaizen, and Lean leadership. The site includes case studies of companies that apply Lean principles in manufacturing and services. It’s a valuable resource to learn continuous improvement techniques that Operations Management professionals apply to boost efficiency.
• Supply Chain Now (Podcast) – This popular podcast (and multimedia series) features interviews with industry leaders and discusses trends across logistics, procurement, and operations. Episodes cover real-world issues – from navigating supply chain disruptions to implementing new technologies. By tuning in, you can hear practical insights and career stories that will help you connect what you learn in an MBA in OM degree program to current events and professional development tips.
• Coursera – Operations Management Courses – Coursera’s online platform hosts courses and specializations from top universities that can reinforce your OM skills. For example, the Wharton Operations Management course is a crash course in process analysis and bottleneck management, while Rutgers’s Supply Chain Management Specialization discusses logistics, sourcing, and supply chain design. These courses (which are often free to audit) let you learn niche topics or advanced analytical tools (like supply chain analytics or project scheduling software) beyond your MBA coursework, with the flexibility to study on your own schedule.

Ranking the Best Online MBA in OM Degree Programs

Choosing the right online MBA in Operations Management degree program is easier with a data-driven ranking. To identify the best programs, we analyzed extensive data from the U.S. Department of Education and over 7,700 colleges nationwide. Our methodology included a detailed look at tuition rates and fees, availability of financial aid, each school’s accreditation status, the number of online programs offered, and the strength of student services like academic advising and career counseling. The result is an unbiased list of top MBA in OM degree programs that excel in affordability, quality, and student support.

Use this ranking to find an online MBA in Operations Management degree program that fits your budget and career goals – and comes from a trusted, student-focused school.