If you’re looking to advance your career in business, management, or a similar field, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) could be the key. Texas, with prominent cities like Dallas, Houston, and Austin, offers an abundance of opportunities to make full use of this advanced degree.
The many online MBA programs in Texas make earning your degree easier than ever because you can choose a pace and location that’s most convenient for you. Most programs also make it possible to continue working while in school. This guide explains how the top online MBA programs in Texas work and tells you what to expect in terms of academics and post-graduate career options.
Top Online MBA Programs in Texas in 2023
With the many quality online MBA options available in Texas, deciding which ones to apply to can seem overwhelming. To help alleviate this, we’ve highlighted the top programs in Texas for 2023 that stand above the rest in terms of affordability, learning options, and student support.
The University of the Incarnate Word offers an online MBA program for working professionals seeking to advance their education and career in business. This program is designed to develop proficiency and confidence in a variety of business areas and teach the technical skills needed for executive-level careers. Students can choose a specialization from data analytics, human resource management, assessment management, or general MBA. Courses are 8-weeks each with six available terms each year. This degree can be taken completely online and can be completed in as few as 10 months.
Program Highlights:
Master of Business Administration
- Credits: 30
- Length: 10+ months
- Cost: $1,050/credit
- Mode: Online, On Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Professional Master of Business Administration
- Credits: 30
- Length: 1 year
- Cost: $1,050/credit
- Mode: Online, On Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Sul Ross University offers an online MBA program designed to prepare individuals to deal with complex issues associated with the dynamic and competitive world of business enterprises. Graduates will be able to apply sound business principles to complex and broad ranging areas using relevant information as well as interpretive skills to make informed and thoughtful decisions. Faculty give students insight from both an academic as well as a business practitioner’s perspective. Students will take courses in finance, marketing, management, economics, and a variety of electives. There is also a one year, full-time program available at the Alpine Campus.
Program Highlights:
Master of Business Administration
- Credits: 30
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $578/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Texas Southern University offers an executive online MBA program for students who are currently pursuing a career. This program combines the advanced business concepts of a Master of Business Administration curriculum to prepare candidates to lead and manage organizations. The program is managed on Blackboard with a flexible schedule, virtual classrooms, live chats, and online lectures. Graduates gain the necessary knowledge to become effective managers or owners in a variety of business careers. This program is offered in two tracks: general business and energy finance. Please note TSU stresses the importance of work experience before applying for this program.
Program Highlights:
Master of Business Administration
- Credits: 36
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $1,000/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
The University of Houston offers a new online MBA program. The program is designed to give students the knowledge, understanding, and skills needed to navigate the executive level of the business world. Expert faculty teaches students the fundamentals of business while giving real-world experience in business, management, and investing. This program is offered both synchronously and asynchronously depending on the course, the professor, and the student’s scheduling needs. Students will take courses in financial accounting, managerial analysis, business communication, supply chain management concepts, organizational behavior and management, information systems, quantitative analysis for business decisions, and more.
Program Highlights:
Master of Business Administration
- Credits: 48
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $866/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
The University of Texas-Permian Basin offers an online MBA program taught by the same professors that teach in-person classes. This degree is designed to guide students to executive-level careers through invaluable knowledge and skills required in the workforce, with a variety of elective courses to specialize the degree according to students’ interests. The curriculum consists of courses in contemporary control systems, strategic management, data analytics, financial management, organizational behavior, international business, business analytics, information systems management, global energy business, professional ethics, energy law, investments, and marketing strategy.
Program Highlights:
Master of Business Administration
- Credits: 36
- Length: 1 year
- Cost: $390/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | ACCSC |
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 | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | ABHE |
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 | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | ACME |
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 |
Popular Online MBA Specializations in Texas
Business is such a diverse field that there are numerous opportunities for MBA students to concentrate their learning in specific areas, and most online MBA programs in Texas offer a variety of specializations. Programs without formal concentrations still offer plenty of electives for students to customize their degrees. Below is a review of popular specialization options available.
MBA with an Emphasis in Healthcare Administration
Healthcare administration examines multiple aspects of operating a healthcare organization, such as a hospital or healthcare system. Students learn about business subjects (e.g., healthcare finance, health informatics, and healthcare human resources) oriented to the medical setting. This concentration is ideal for students seeking management roles at a healthcare facility.
Examples of MBA Programs in Texas with this Specialization
MBA with an Emphasis in Marketing
A marketing specialization teaches students foundational principles of marketing and how to apply those concepts to real-world scenarios and cross-reference them with other business concepts. For example, students learn to develop a marketing plan by figuring out which pricing model to apply with the help of information gleaned from quantitative research and data analysis. This concentration is intended for individuals who work with or oversee individuals actively working on promotional activities.
Examples of MBA Programs in Texas with this Specialization
MBA with an Emphasis in Information Technology
Technology is now an integral part of any business, and applying that technology as effectively and efficiently as possible is a challenge. This concentration helps business leaders understand what technology can do and offer and then teaches them how to use that technology to do everything in a business from managing others to making tactical and strategic decisions. This specialization is ideal for those working in e-commerce or technology consulting or for anyone managing a technology-related department.
Examples of MBA Programs in Texas with this Specialization
MBA with an Emphasis in Accounting
MBA students pursuing an accounting emphasis review the basics of accounting, but they quickly shift their attention to applying accounting concepts to certain contexts. These may include auditing, tax, corporate accounting, and investment banking. Anyone who relies on economic and financial data to make decisions can benefit from this MBA emphasis.
Examples of MBA Programs in Texas with this Specialization
MBA with an Emphasis in Management
The primary focus of an MBA emphasizing management is teaching students how to effectively deal with people. This emphasis teaches leadership skills and principles essential for leading others, whether for a small team project or an entire organization. It’s perfect for anyone working in human resources, project management, or management consulting.
Examples of MBA Programs in Texas with this Specialization
MBA with an Emphasis in Finance
The MBA emphasis on finance focuses explains theoretical concepts and principles of finance that students need to understand to make informed strategic business decisions after they graduate. It also shows how to combine that knowledge with management skills so strategic decisions are effectively carried out. This emphasis applies to a variety of professional careers but is probably best suited for jobs that involve reviewing a variety of financial documents and data.
Examples of MBA Programs in Texas with this Specialization
Frequently Asked Questions About Earning your MBA Online in Texas
What is the average cost of an MBA program in Texas?
Many factors affect the tuition rate and other costs of an MBA program in Texas. For example, in-state students typically pay a lower tuition rate when attending public schools that don’t have special tuition rates for online students. Additionally, some private schools have tuition rates that are lower than non-resident tuition rates at public institutions. All factors considered, a prospective online MBA student should expect to pay anywhere from $10,000 to $40,000.
What does an MBA admissions process in Texas look like?
Many MBA online Texas programs have similar admissions requirements. Those include:
- An application
- Official transcripts
- A resume or curriculum vitae
- Application fees
- GMAT or GRE test scores
- Two or more letters of recommendation
- An essay or personal statement
All schools require a completed application and official transcripts, but some don’t require some of the other application components. For instance, Texas Wesleyan Universitydoesn’t have an application fee, and the University of North Texaswaives the GRE/GMAT requirement under certain conditions (e.g., for those with doctoral degrees). As for the essay and letters of recommendation, there’s wide variation in what schools require.
How quickly can I earn an online MBA in Texas?
Most online MBA programs in Texas last anywhere from one to two years. To graduate in one year, students usually take classes full-time, year-round. Curriculums where students graduate in two years are often designed for those planning to work full-time while in school. You may also save time on earning an online MBA by getting transfer credits for classes taken at another accredited post-secondary institution.
Is the GMAT required to get into an MBA program in Texas?
Some schools, like the University of Texas at Arlington, require a GRE or GMAT score. Others, like Texas Tech University, only require it from students with GPAs falling below a specific number. Finally, programs like Texas Woman’s Universitydon’t require any entrance exam test score for admission.
In Texas, what is the ROI on an MBA vs a bachelor’s degree in business?
Getting an MBA is one of the best ways for anyone with a bachelor’s degree to increase their potential earnings. This is particularly true in Texas with the average salary for someone with an MBA being $74,591 per year, far higher than the $41,183 average salary for someone with just a bachelor’s degree in business. Considering the cost of an MBA, it’s realistic for an MBA graduate to pay back the cost of their degree within a couple of years.
What accreditations should I look for in an online MBA program in Texas?
There are two programmatic accreditations that prospective MBA students should look for when choosing a school. The most common is the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business(AACSB). Another is the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs(ACBSP). If your chosen program has either of these programmatic accreditations, you know it meets certain quality standards. This is especially important with online MBA programs in Texas to confirm that they are of the same quality as in-person MBA programs.
Financial Aid and Scholarships for MBA Students in Texas
How to pay for an MBA degree is an important consideration for most students. Traditional and online MBA programs in Texas offer a wide array of financial aid options, including MBA program-specific scholarships and fellowships for accepted students who meet certain qualifications.
Students can also seek out government student loans from either the federal government or the state of Texas using the TAFSA(Texas Application For State Financial Aid). Another promising source of financial aid is from current employers if they offer employee tuition reimbursement benefits. Learn more about these and other sources of financial aid for your Texas MBA degree through our financial aid guide, employer tuition assistance guide, and scholarships guide.
Scholarships
Salary Potential for MBA Grads in Texas
Graduating from online MBA programs in Texas can lead to promising employment, especially in terms of pay. The chart below shows common occupations where an MBA can be especially helpful and how average 2021 annual salaries easily exceeded six figures.
A bonus is that the cost of living in Texas is about 6% lower than the national average. MBA graduates working in popular metropolitan areas can expect even higher wages. For example, financial managers in the state of Texas make an average of $154,240 per year, but financial managers in the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington average $161,500, and those in the Houston area average $161,510.
| Job Growth Rate (2020-2030) | Average Annual Openings (2020-2030) | Annual Mean Wage (2021) | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Marketing Manager |
22.3% |
2,050 |
$141,550 |
|
Financial Manager |
33.3% |
5,230 |
$154,240 |
|
Chief Executive |
3.5% |
650 |
$264,210 |
|
Human Resource Manager |
22.2% |
1,180 |
$132,290 |
|
Market Research Analyst |
35.0% |
5,690 |
$70,600 |