Best Online MBA Programs of 2024

These top online MBA programs can help you save money, work while you study, and start a lucrative business career.
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Updated on March 7, 2024
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Best Online Master's Programs in Business Administration

If you're a gambler, getting an MBA is consistently a safe bet if you want to make more money. In 2022, the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) found that an MBA boosts salaries by 50% pretty much out the gate.

And employers love a shiny new MBA: According to the Graduate Management Admission Council, nearly 90% of business school students were employed upon graduation in 2022.

Getting your MBA doesn't have to be a huge ordeal that upsets your whole life, either. We've rounded up some of the top fully online programs out there, which provide the training you need on a schedule that works for you.

How We Rank Schools

To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.

Ranking Methodology Summary

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To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:

  • Affordability (30%)
  • Student outcomes (30%)
  • Reputation (20%)
  • Diversity and social mobility (20%)

In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.

The Best Online MBA Programs

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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#1 Best Online MBA Programs of 2024

William & Mary

  • Williamsburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $1,425

Out-of-State | $1,425

Credits to Graduate: 49

William & Mary's MBA program consists of 12 courses and one weekend residency. All courses can be completed online, but the weekend residency occurs in person on the Virginia campus. Weekend residencies include intensive business discussions, team-building exercises, and the opportunity to network with mentors. 

The program's curriculum is pre-set and can be completed within 24 months. Attendees can earn a foundations in business analytics certificate by taking three additional courses. According to self-reported data from alumni from 2019-2022, graduates earn an average annual salary of about $135,000.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$17,434
Out-of-state
$40,089
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,516
Out-of-state
$28,305
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
37%
Students Enrolled
9,517
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
25% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online MBA Programs of 2024

University of Utah

  • Salt Lake City, UT
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $1,350

Out-of-State | $1,450

Credits to Graduate: 48

The University of Utah's online MBA program consists of core courses, electives, and an optional on-campus residency. Enrollees may choose to concurrently earn a graduate certificate or dual degree. 

Students can compile elective courses to earn a graduate certificate in various specializations, including business analytics, cybersecurity management, and information systems. Concurrent degree programs may take an additional 2-3 semesters to complete and include healthcare administration and finance. 

Enrollees can take advantage of career coaches who can provide advice regarding career advancement and job searches. Students reported an average salary increase of 36% by graduation. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,749
Out-of-state
$27,201
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,970
Out-of-state
$24,607
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
34,464
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#3 Best Online MBA Programs of 2024

Clemson University

  • Clemson, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $1,319

Out-of-State | $1,319

Credits to Graduate: 49

Clemson University's part-time online MBA was designed for working professionals and takes an estimated 30-36 months to complete. Courses offer flexibility with both live courses and recorded lectures online. Some classes may require live attendance. 

The program includes 12 elective credits, which may be used toward a certificate or area of emphasis. Certificates require 9-12 credits, and choices include business analytics, technology entrepreneurship, and reliability engineering. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,118
Out-of-state
$37,110
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,600
Out-of-state
$22,050
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
27,341
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online MBA Programs of 2024

Auburn University

  • Auburn, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $950

Out-of-State | $950

Credits to Graduate: 39

The MBA program at Auburn University consists of nine core courses and four electives, which must be completed online within six years. The school recommends working students take two or fewer courses per semester. 

Enrollees can concurrently pursue a graduate certificate or dual degree. Graduate certificates require 3-4 courses, which may overlap with required MBA electives. Dual degrees require an additional 18-24 credit courses. Degree options include finance, information systems, and supply chain management. Students in dual degree programs may be asked to complete a final project or live case study. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,080
Out-of-state
$30,240
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,080
Out-of-state
$30,240
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
31,526
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Online MBA Programs of 2024

James Madison University

  • Harrisonburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $600-1000

Out-of-State | $600-1000

Credits to Graduate: 42

James Madison University offers three MBA programs with concentrations in executive leadership, innovation, or information security. MBA programs at JMU require applicants to possess 2-5 years of working experience. 

The program price depends on the concentration a student chooses. Students take 21-28 months to graduate. Most classes are online, but enrollees must meet multiple times throughout the duration of the program at the Virginia campus. Enrollees may attend the optional residency course, which includes a 7-10-day trip abroad. Residency course costs, excluding airfare, are included in the tuition rate. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,460
Out-of-state
$23,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,184
Out-of-state
$27,888
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
22,166
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
35% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Best Online MBA Programs of 2024

University of Oklahoma, Norman Campus

  • Norman, OK
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $985

Out-of-State | $985

Credits to Graduate: 36

OU's Gene Rainbolt Graduate School of Business offers a flexible online MBA program for students working full-time, regardless of relevant work experience. While most courses are delivered synchronously in the evening and during the weekend, some courses are also delivered asynchronously through recorded lectures. 

With little difference in course offerings between in-person and online MBA programs, online students also have the option to earn a specialization in supply chain management. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,920
Out-of-state
$20,724
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,034
Out-of-state
$23,096
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
28,042
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
57% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#7 Best Online MBA Programs of 2024

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

  • Blacksburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $1,150

Out-of-State | $1,150

Credits to Graduate: 48

The Pamplin College of Business offers an online MBA program for working professionals. Students master business fundamentals, gain knowledge in core business functions, and diversify their working experience through elective course options. Virginia Tech offers four elective career tracks: cybersecurity, healthcare IT, and entrepreneurship. 

In addition to career development workshops and speaker seminars, a distinct feature of the program is its cohort-based model that allows students to build and expand their network and a capstone project experience for students to integrate their knowledge and skills learned during the course of the 24-month program. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,750
Out-of-state
$30,829
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,098
Out-of-state
$28,415
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
37,279
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
57% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Online MBA Programs of 2024

University of Maryland, College Park

  • College Park, MD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $1,733

Out-of-State | $1,733

Credits to Graduate: 54-56

The University of Maryland provides an online MBA to help enrollees develop leadership, analytical, and communication skills. The curriculum includes core courses, electives, two residencies, and a choice of either a global studies or international business course. 

The first residency program lasts three days, occurs on campus, and introduces students to the school, faculty, and classmates. The second residency program, a capstone project, is an integrative business scenario. 

Students can choose an MBA specialization, such as marketing or finance. Specializations require students to take a specific set of electives but not additional courses.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,000
Out-of-state
$36,683
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,360
Out-of-state
$34,120
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
52%
Students Enrolled
41,272
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#9 Best Online MBA Programs of 2024

University of Nevada, Reno

  • Reno, NV
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $833

Out-of-State | $833

Credits to Graduate: 36

The College of Business at the University of Reno-Nevada offers an executive online degree program for midcareer executives who want to leverage their business acumen and experience to solve the most complex problems facing the business world today. 

With a program format that follows a cohort model, students can expect a curriculum that balances core business subjects with elective courses that allow enrolled students to expand the breadth of their knowledge and expertise while completing their degree fully online.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,923
Out-of-state
$24,013
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,625
Out-of-state
$21,715
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
21,034
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
29% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#10 Best Online MBA Programs of 2024

Villanova University

  • Villanova, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $1,263

Out-of-State | $1,263

Credits to Graduate: 48

Villanova University's professional MBA, named for the working professionals the school hopes to serve, may be completed on campus, online, or in a hybrid setting. Online students have one-hour live sessions every week, but all other courses are asynchronous. 

Attendees can choose among seven specializations, including business analytics, artificial intelligence, and strategic management. Each specialization is 7.5 elective credits. The curriculum includes 15 elective credits, allowing students to specialize in up to two topics. Students must also complete a combination of foundational, capstone, leadership, and future of work courses. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$58,290
Out-of-state
$58,290
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,099
Out-of-state
$21,099
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
25%
Students Enrolled
10,870
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
26% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Online MBA Programs for You

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Why Should You Get Your MBA Online?

There are plenty of reasons to consider getting your degree online — flexibility chief among them. If you're not sure whether an online or in-person MBA is the best choice for you, this guide might help:

If… Then…
Accessibility is a concern An online MBA can be completed from the comfort of your couch — no need to relocate.
Finances are a challenge Many online MBA programs will save you money on tuition, commuting costs, and living expenses.
You need scheduling flexibility Online MBA programs offer both synchronous and asynchronous course options to accommodate your life.
You're looking to create a professional network Both online and in-person MBA programs connect you to alumni, classmates, and future colleagues.
You want to customize your degree Both traditional and online MBA programs offer professional specializations to support your goals.

What You Can Expect From Online MBA Programs

Generally, the curriculum for online MBA programs is identical to what you'd expect from a traditional program. Some online programs offer accelerated tracks, which cover the same ground in less time. But at the normal pace, you can expect an MBA to take 2-3 years to earn.

There are a few things you should look for in a top-notch online MBA program:

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    Accreditation from a recognized accrediting body.
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    An excellent virtual learning environment that is user-friendly, encourages participation, and enhances your experience.
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    Engaging course content that leverages multimedia resources like video lectures, readings, simulations, and interactive discussion opportunities.
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    Access to faculty through email and online office hours, as well as support resources like tutoring, advising, counseling, tech help, and career guidance.
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    Asynchronous learning options that allow you to learn on your own terms and at your own pace.
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    Strong student outcomes like high graduation and employment rates.
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    Specializations or concentrations that will help you develop the specific professional skills you need to advance your career.

Common Online MBA Concentrations

Here's a quick look at popular MBA specializations, the roles they lead to, and average annual salaries based on Payscale data.

Finance

Prepare for roles in investment banking, corporate finance, or finance consulting.

  • Investment Banker Average Salary (2024): $117,690

Marketing

Prepare for roles in advertising, digital marketing, and brand management.

  • Senior Brand Manager Average Salary (2024): $109,984

Management Consulting

Prepare for roles in organizational management, consulting, or executive leadership.

  • Management Consultant Average Salary (2024): $95,544

Entrepreneurship

Prepare to manage your own business, launch a start-up, or drive new initiatives for an existing company.

  • Chief Executive Officer Average Salary (2024): $164,880

Healthcare Administration

Prepare for in-demand roles in hospital administration or healthcare consulting.

  • Hospital Administrator Average Salary (2024): $93,707

How to Pay for Your Online MBA?

The cost of earning an MBA is among students' top admission considerations. Many factors, such as reputation and location, affect the price of tuition for MBA candidates. The National Center for Education Statistics calculated that the average graduate tuition was $12,394 at public institutions and $26,621 at private institutions during the 2020-2021 academic year. Explore these resources to learn more about paying for your online MBA.

Common Questions About the Best Online MBAs

Are online MBA programs respected?

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Yes. A degree from an accredited online MBA program holds just as much weight as an on-campus degree. No employer is going to ask you during a job interview whether you attended online or in person.

How difficult is an online MBA program?

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MBA programs are notoriously rigorous, and online programs are no different. Expect a challenging curriculum, demanding assignments, and a rich learning experience that will provide you with an in-depth understanding of the business world.

What are the disadvantages of an online MBA?

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Some students struggle with the independent time management and study required to succeed in an online MBA program. Additionally, it may be more challenging to create meaningful relationships with faculty and other students remotely -- but well-designed programs will have many ways to help you connect and build strong networks.

What is the hardest online MBA program to get into?

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Ivy League institutions like Harvard and Yale, as well as other competitive universities like Stanford, have some of the lowest admission rates for their business programs.


Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed February 19, 2024.