Let’s say you’ve been working for a company since you graduated from college, feel stagnant in your position and want to advance. If you want to start climbing up the ladder, consider getting an online Master’s degree in Business.
What Is a Business Master’s Degree?
These days, business is increasingly complex. Global influences, supply chain management, data analytics, information systems, and other factors impact the way business is conducted. These were mostly unheard of terms just 20 years ago. Successful companies in today’s market rely on highly educated individuals with a Master of Science in Business or Master of Business Administration. This ranking includes both. An advanced degree in business allows for greater flexibility in your career, will enhance your skill level, as well as expand your employment possibilities.
An MBA degree will help you stand out in the crowded business field and expand your business network and contacts. MBA studies prepare you for strategic management, oversight of a company’s finances and budgets, conducting negotiations and developing contracts, or roles serving as a Chief Executive Officer, Chief Budgetary Office, Chief Operating Officer, etc.
How Much Can You Earn with a Master’s Degree in Business?
No doubt, a graduate-level business degree can significantly increase your salary and benefits potential. Depending on the business or industry you’re in, an MBA can increase your salary by nearly 30%. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median annual salary for top executives to be $100,930. General managers and operational managers earn a median ranging from $72,890-$138,520. PayScale drills down a bit further and publishes CEO salaries averaging $157,550, CFOs at $132,318, and COOs at $141,994 per year. These estimates don’t include sign-on bonuses, profit sharing, commissions, retirement packages, etc.
Employment for MBA prepared executives is growing at 6%, which is about average across all careers, according to the BLS. Depending on your interests, you can find work in government, healthcare, finance, industry, manufacturing, retail, etc.
What Is Required for a Master’s Degree in Business?
Most graduate programs in business will prefer it if you have an undergraduate degree in business, but don’t worry if you don’t. Schools will admit students with degrees in other disciplines based on GMAT/GRE scores, work experience or by taking prerequisites. You can expect to begin your graduate work with core courses in finance, accounting, marketing, human resources, organizational management, etc.
You’ll be able to tailor a majority of these programs according to your needs by taking additional courses in a concentration. Examples of concentrations could be global supply chain management, healthcare, data analytics, sport and recreation management, human resources, etc.
What Are the Best Online Master’s in Business Degrees?
OSR uses six data points: three school-wide and three program specific. For school-wide, OSR uses Student Satisfaction, Admission Rates, and the number of programs the school offers online. For program-specific, OSR checks the Median Debt of graduates from that program, how many degrees are offered within that program’s umbrella department, and what percentage of students at that school graduated from that department.
The six statistics are displayed by each school. The sliding bar under each statistic represents how that school compares to other US institutions. “Not reported” means a school did not release that information to the US Department of Education. A more detailed description of the OSR process can be found on the methodology page.
Bellevue University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $10,170(in state) / $10,170(out of state)
- 36 credit hours
- 22 concentrations
- No tuition residency
School Wide
Program Level
100%OSR ScoreIf you’re looking for MBA options, Bellevue University has you covered with 22 concentrations from which to choose. Core courses are required in finance, strategy, marketing, and others. Depending on your concentration, you’ll be able to sit for certification exams with this degree.
Saint Joseph's University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $16,401(in state) / $16,401(out of state)
- 4 concentrations
- 30 credit hours
- GRE/GMAT scores required (waiver possible)
School Wide
Program Level
87%OSR ScoreThis Jesuit university has an online MS in Business Intelligence and Analytics degree with concentrations in: Data Science, Data Analytics, Managerial, or Cyber Analytics. A Personal Student Services Coordinator is available throughout your studies.
Nichols College
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School Wide
Program Level
86%OSR ScoreNichols College, located in Massachusetts, awards an online MBA which can be completed in 11 sessions. Following core courses, enroll in Managerial Finance, Strategic Management, Global Marketing & Data Analytics. Electives include Six Sigma, Critical Thinking, Applied Statistics, etc.
Excelsior College
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School Wide
Program Level
85%OSR ScoreExcelsior College offers an online MBA and MS in Management degrees. You can pick from five concentrations for the MBA and three for the MSM. The college also offers a dual degree track for students already in Excelsior’s undergraduate business program.
Northeastern University Professional Advancement Network
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $23,797(in state) / $23,797(out of state)
- STEM-designated graduate degree
- 30-33 credit hours
- Ranks #58 “Best Business Schools” U.S. News and World Report
School Wide
Program Level
84%OSR ScoreThis is a MS in Commerce and Economic Development with 4 concentrations in Economic Analysis, Economic Entrepreneurship, Data Analytics, and Financial Economics. There’s a required capstone project prior to graduation.
Post University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $7,500(in state) / $7,500(out of state)
- 39 credit hours
- 8 concentrations
- BS in Business preferred for admission
School Wide
Program Level
84%OSR ScoreLocated in Connecticut, Post University’s online MBA offers specialties in areas such as healthcare, marketing, project management, leadership, finance, etc. This program is designed for the working professional seeking a leadership role. Ask if your work experience could translate to credits.
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $20,470(in state) / $20,470(out of state)
- 48 credit hours
- Global immersion experience offered
- Blended/Online
School Wide
Program Level
83%OSR ScoreIf you want choices in an MBA concentration, PennState World Campus gives you over 20 possibilities. This highly rated program requires a five-day residency on its University Park, Illinois campus at the beginning of the program. Program focus is on teamwork, leadership, strategy, etc.
New England College
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $13,080(in state) / $13,080(out of state)
- 8 concentrations available
- 40 credit hours
- One of U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Online Graduate Programs”
School Wide
Program Level
77%OSR ScoreYou can complete this online MBA in 20 months. The program is designed for working professionals and begins with 28 credit hours MBA core courses. Among the eight concentrations are Digital Marketing and Sport and Recreation Leadership.
Indiana Institute of Technology
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $11,466(in state) / $11,466(out of state)
- 9 concentrations
- 36 credit hours
- 63% graduation rate
School Wide
Program Level
77%OSR ScoreIndianaTech’s online MBA offers concentrations in accounting, healthcare, human resources, marketing, and others. An MBA/MS in engineering is also available. You need at least two years work experience for admission.
Saint Leo University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,990(in state) / $9,990(out of state)
- MBA scholarship available
- 36 credit hours
- Largest Catholic business college in the U.S.
School Wide
Program Level
76%OSR ScoreSaint Leo University provides an MBA which covers topics in human resources management, economics, statistics, marketing, finance, etc. You’ll also have opportunities in professional development through professional memberships, internship, and conferences. The school has an MBA bridge program as well.
University of Utah
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6,725(in state) / $23,740(out of state)
- 6% of online MBA students promoted while enrolled
- 38 credit hours
- Dual and concurrent degree options
School Wide
Program Level
75%OSR ScoreThis MBA requires that you have a minimum of one year professional work experience, GRE/GMAT scores, and an admission interview. You can choose from six specialty areas such as accounting, finance, information systems, operations, and management.
Lindenwood University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $16,300(in state) / $16,300(out of state)
- 33-51 credit hours
- One of U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Online MBA Programs”
- 100% online
School Wide
Program Level
73%OSR ScoreOffering 13 areas of emphasis, this MBA from Lindenwood University can be obtained in five eight-weeks terms. Concentrations include international business, healthcare, project management, and supply chain management. You’ll take five core business courses and one quantitative course prior to your specialty.
Lincoln Memorial University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $16,870(in state) / $16,870(out of state)
- 30-36 credit hours
- 100% online
- Dual degrees available
School Wide
Program Level
72%OSR ScoreThis Tennessee university’s MBA features seven concentrations. You can enroll in the General MBA (30 credit hours) or an MBA with a concentration (36 credit hours). Dual degree options are available for students pursuing either a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) or Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM).
Oklahoma Christian University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $13,992(in state) / $13,992(out of state)
- Multiple specialty tracks
- Non-business undergraduates accepted
- 36 credit hours
School Wide
Program Level
72%OSR ScoreOklahoma Christian University has an online MBA which is available to students with a BS in Business or an undergraduate degree in another discipline. You can choose a track from accounting, leadership and organizational development, finance, etc. The school is associated with the Church of Christ.
Columbia College
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $7,271(in state) / $7,271(out of state)
- 36 credit hours
- Ranked a U.S. News and World Report “Best Value School”
- No GRE/GMAT required
School Wide
Program Level
71%OSR ScoreColumbia College, located in Missouri, awards an MBA with specialty studies in accounting or human resources. Depending on your undergraduate degree, you may be required to complete prerequisite courses for admission. Columbia College is a military friendly school, offering credit for military training or experience.
University of Charleston
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $17,000(in state) / $17,000(out of state)
- 3 concentrations
- 49 credit hours
- Online or hybrid
School Wide
Program Level
71%OSR ScoreYou can pick from Healthcare Management, Business Analytics, or Management with this online MBA. A minimum of three years professional experience is preferred for admission. The program uses a cohort model and a capstone project is required.
Florida State University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,684(in state) / $24,116(out of state)
- Part-time online
- 4 specializations
- 39 credit hours
School Wide
Program Level
70%OSR ScoreChoose from Real Estate, Risk Management and Insurance, Business Analytics, and Management Information Systems concentrations. Admission considers work experience, academics, and GRE/GMAT (GMAT scores preferred). This MBA is one of U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Online MBA Programs.”
Hawaii Pacific University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $18,000(in state) / $18,000(out of state)
- 32 credit hours
- Military friendly
- GMAT/GRE
School Wide
Program Level
70%OSR ScoreThis MBA is tailored for working professionals and active military. There are 28 credit hours of core coursework required followed by capstone courses. Courses include strategic marketing, global economics, business analytics, etc. Admission occurs in the Fall and Spring semesters.
Cameron University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $3,384(in state) / $10,044(out of state)
- 33 credit hours
- Grants, scholarships, tuition waivers available for qualified students
- Up to 12 transfer hours accepted
School Wide
Program Level
69%OSR ScoreCoursework for this MBA covers common core studies and concentrations in Economics and Human/Organizational Administration. The program focuses on theory and practice with concepts in finance, administration, information systems, etc. GRE/GMAT scores are not required.
University of Baltimore
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $13,536(in state) / $19,638(out of state)
- No residency requirements
- 36-48 credit hours
- Graduate scholarships available
School Wide
Program Level
69%OSR ScoreThe University of Baltimore has been educating professionals since 1925 and has an online MBA. You can concentrate on Financial Performance, Data Analytics, Marketing, and Leadership. Six start dates available for the seven-week classes.
Johns Hopkins University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $52,170(in state) / $52,170(out of state)
- 2-3 days on-campus residency intensives
- 54 credit hours
- 6 concentrations
School Wide
Program Level
68%OSR ScoreThe prestigious business school at Johns Hopkins has a flexible, online MBA. You can concentrate in the areas of healthcare, entrepreneurship, marketing, organizational leadership, and interdisciplinary business. There are three residencies on the Washington D.C. campus with this MBA.
Campbellsville University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $11,904(in state) / $11,904(out of state)
- 7 concentrations
- 36 credit hours
- No GRE/GMAT requirement
School Wide
Program Level
68%OSR ScoreLocated in Kentucky, Campbellsville University’s online MBA program has a faith-based approach. Business fields you can study include Church Management, Accounting, Information Technology, etc. Courses are eight weeks in duration and the degree can be completed in approximately two years.
Bethel University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $10,609(in state) / $10,609(out of state)
- 4 specialty options
- Faith based education
- 42 credit hours
School Wide
Program Level
66%OSR ScoreIf you’re looking for studies in healthcare administration, management, strategy, or finance, Bethel University offers an online MBA. There’s a dual degree option which will allow you to also receive an MA in Strategic Leadership along with your MBA. Bethel University offers career coaching for MBA students.
Ball State University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $8,554(in state) / $21,172(out of state)
- Ranks in the top 15 “Best Online MBA Programs” by U.S. News and World Report
- 30-35 credit hours
- 6 concentrations
School Wide
Program Level
66%OSR ScoreThe Ball State University MBA emphasizes decision making with its MBA alongside skills, ethics, leadership, and strategy. This program utilizes webcast and synchronous program delivery for flexibility. Specialty MBA areas include management in supply chain or sales management.
Drexel University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $33,156(in state) / $33,156(out of state)
- Dual degree options
- 49 credit hours
- GMAT/GRE required (waiver possible)
School Wide
Program Level
65%OSR ScoreDepending on your enrollment, it’s possible to complete this online MBA in as few as 18 months. Studies include finance, strategy, dynamic environments, operations and supply side management, negotiations, and others. There are both a capstone and internship required for this degree.
Medaille College
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $16,524(in state) / $16,524(out of state)
- 30-42 credit hours (depending on waivers)
- 7-week courses
- Rolling admissions
School Wide
Program Level
64%OSR ScoreYou can receive a general MBA or one with a Project Management or Organizational Leadership. There is no GMAT/GRE requirement for admission. Foundation courses in marketing, economy theory, finance/accounting, and statistical analysis are part of the program.
The College of Saint Scholastica
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $11,484(in state) / $11,484(out of state)
- Designed for healthcare professionals
- No GRE required
- No residency requirement
School Wide
Program Level
64%OSR ScoreMany rural hospitals struggle in today’s healthcare environment. This is an online and specialized Healthcare MBA in Rural Administrators. Courses are available in finance, decision making, strategic leadership, and human resource management. The program requires a thesis or research project.
Gwynedd Mercy University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $10,507(in state) / $10,507(out of state)
- Accelerated online program
- 3 concentrations
- 30 credit hours
School Wide
Program Level
63%OSR ScoreThis Pennsylvania university was established in 1948 by the Sisters of Mercy. The accelerated online MBA offers concentrations in Health Care Administration, Transportation Leadership, and Strategic Management and Leadership. You’ll take one course at a time during a seven-week period.
Georgia College & State University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $5,184(in state) / $18,486(out of state)
- #2 “Best Online MBA in Georgia” U.S. News and World Report
- GMAT/GRE waived for BS in Business students
- 30 credit hours
School Wide
Program Level
63%OSR ScoreGeorgia College calls this program WebMBA, and it’s a graduate program awarding a general MBA degree. Courses cover global business, managerial finance, decision making, business strategy, supply chain management, etc. You need an undergraduate business GPA of 3.15 or GMAT/GRE scores for admission without a BS in Business.
Henderson State University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $4,842(in state) / $6,048(out of state)
- Hybrid program
- GMAT/GRE required
- Required MBA Bootcamp
School Wide
Program Level
63%OSR ScoreHenderson State University has a unique approach to admission in their MBA. You’ll begin with a “Bootcamp” which involves online study and a weekend intensive on the Henderson State campus prior to taking core coursework. This process is to ensure your success in graduate school.
Azusa Pacific University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $17,472(in state) / $17,472(out of state)
- 6 start times per year
- 42 credit hours
- 8 concentrations
School Wide
Program Level
63%OSR ScoreAzusa Pacific University offers an online MBA for working professionals which can be completed in 12-30 months. Among the eight concentrations available are Accounting, Institutional Research, International Business, and Sport Management. You’ll be expected to complete a capstone project.
Morehead State University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $10,422(in state) / $10,422(out of state)
- 30-36 credit hours
- GMAT exemption available
- Ranked a “Best Value Schools” by U.S. News and World Report
School Wide
Program Level
62%OSR ScoreYou can receive a specialized MBA in Health Systems Management at Morehead State University or a general MBA. The concentration covers topics such as Healthcare Public Policy, healthcare trends, health economics, Ethics in Public Administration, etc. The school offers a certificate program for healthcare professionals.
Mercer University
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $14,370(in state) / $14,370(out of state)
- Considered one of the top 5% of worldwide business schools
- 36-45 credit hours
- Multiple concentrations available
School Wide
Program Level
61%OSR ScoreMercer University’s online MBA enrolls students in January, March, May, August, and October. You can earn your graduate degree in 18 months. Dual degrees are available in four graduate disciplines: Accounting, Doctor of Pharmacy, Master of Divinity, and Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Colorado State University-Pueblo
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $5,327(in state) / $15,838(out of state)
- Scholarships available
- 36 credit hours
- Accelerated online program
School Wide
Program Level
60%OSR ScoreYou may want to consider this general MBA program from the Hasan School of Business which is accredited in the top 5% of nationwide business schools. Throughout the program you can receive one-on-one advising and finish in one year. The GMAT is required for admission.
Indiana University-Bloomington
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Quick Facts
- Tuition: $8,956(in state) / $30,125(out of state)
- 54 credit hours
- On-campus intensives
- Recent graduates received 29% salary increase
School Wide
Program Level
60%OSR ScoreWith this MBA program, you can also take an additional four courses for a concentration. Concentration choices include global supply chain management, business analytics, finance, etc. There are two weeklong, on-campus intensives required at the beginning and end of the program.
