Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
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Online master's in management programs focus on developing strong strategic and leadership skills. Many programs cater to students with an interest in pursuing a career in management, but who don't currently possess extensive professional experience. Pursuing a master's in management can help students gain the skills they need to launch a new career or advance in their field.
This guide breaks down the best online master's in management programs. It explores common program components, courses, and admission requirements. It also describes several career paths you can consider after earning a master's degree. For more information, consult our Master's in Management Program Guide.
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Best Accredited Online Master's in Management Programs
Rankings compiled by the the BestColleges Ranking Team
How We Rank Schools
At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.
Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that is best for you.
Franklin University
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $670
Out of State | $670
Credits to Graduate
36
Program Information
Program Accreditation | International Accreditation Council for Business Education
Franklin offers an online master of science in human resource management for working students. Enrollees can complete 36 credits entirely online in an average of 14 months. The curriculum features coursework assignments that address practical workplace issues.
Students study topics, such as labor relations, performance appraisal systems, and compensation design and administration. This online master's in management allows students to complete an independent research project for the capstone course.
All online students pay the same affordable tuition rate regardless of where they live.
Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.75 GPA.
Brenau University
Gainesville, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $755
Out of State | $755
Credits to Graduate
36-39
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Located in Gainesville, Georgia, Brenau offers the master of science in organizational leadership in management online. The ACBSP-accredited program offers a concentration in management. The master's in management attracts learners from a variety of work and academic backgrounds.
Students complete coursework that enhances their technical and managerial expertise.
Core courses include strategic leadership planning and resource management. The management concentration cultivates leaders with effective negotiation, project management, and HR management skills.
Busy students can take just one seven-week class at a time. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA.
Marquette University
Milwaukee, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,220
Out of State | $1,220
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Marquette develops a multidisciplinary master's in management. Students can complete the 30-credit curriculum in 21 months. Participants have an opportunity to assess their leadership style and enhance their capabilities. Students learn negotiation skills, HR analytics, and ethical business practices.
A consulting project serves as the capstone for the online master's in management. The degree uses synchronous and asynchronous class formats. Students do not need work experience to apply. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and GRE or GMAT scores.
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $565
Out of State | $565
Credits to Graduate
45
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
A Christian college in Virginia, Liberty manages a strong virtual college. The online master of business administration's concentration in project management helps prepare enrollees for Project Management Institute certification.
Students hone expertise in key business functions, such as accounting and operations management. Participants learn project management tools and best practices in this master's in management.
Students pay the same affordable tuition for the MBA, and military personnel receive a steep tuition discount. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and prerequisite business coursework.
Ashland University
Ashland, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online or Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $34,650 program total
Out of State | $34,650 program total
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Students can choose one of several management concentrations in AU's online master of business administration. The MBA core provides training in various cross-functional business areas. Students customize the degree with a concentration in global, healthcare, or project management. Enrollees can earn the Project Management Institute's PMP certification at no additional cost.
Students living in central or northeast Ohio can also take in-person classes. Enrollees can complete the master's in management in 1-3 years, and tuition includes web-based course materials and a Verizon MiFi hotspot. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and GRE or GMAT scores, with waivers available.
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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Lewis University
Romeoville, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $710
Out of State | $710
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Lewis's master of arts in organizational leadership offers four career-focused concentrations. The higher education, student services concentration attracts professionals interested in developing programs and services for college students.
The training and development concentration prepares instructors who specialize in working with adults. Enrollees can also pursue concentrations in organizational management or professional and executive coaching.
The master's in management accommodates the needs of working professionals with a fully online curriculum. Students pay the same tuition regardless of residency status. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and all school transcripts.
Oklahoma City University
Oklahoma City, OK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $590
Out of State | $590
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and American Association of Professional Landmen
OKCU's unique, part-time master of science in energy management prepares leaders for the energy sector. Students complete the applied curriculum in two years as part of a cohort. Participants learn how to apply managerial skills, such as accounting, operations management, and financial decision-making in the energy business.
Enrollees engage in role-play and in-depth class discussions as they enhance their negotiation skills. Two virtual residencies allow students to network with peers, faculty, and energy industry leaders. The program's flat tuition rate applies to in-state and out-of-state students. Admission to the master's in management requires a bachelor's degree and school transcripts.
Babson College
Wellesley, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,820
Out of State | $1,820
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Babson is a business college dedicated to entrepreneurship education. Mid-career professionals can earn the part-time master's in advanced entrepreneurial leadership online in 24 months.
The 30-credit curriculum teaches growth marketing, analytics, and financial sustainability and performance management. Participants develop complementary design thinking skills and enhance their emotional intelligence to motivate others.
Enrollees apply what they learn in a capstone project mentored by faculty. Admission to the master's in management requires a bachelor's degree and transcripts from all institutions.
City University of Seattle
Seattle, WA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online and Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $695
Out of State | $695
Credits to Graduate
42
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
CityU designs the master of science in management and leadership for professionals from any academic background. Students learn core managerial skills and choose an emphasis in change leadership, HR management, or nonprofit leadership.
Enrollees culminate the online master's in management with an applied capstone project. Participants can complete the degree using a fully online or hybrid format in just 15 months. CityU charges a flat tuition rate for students in the master of science program. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and school transcripts.
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
Carbondale, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $460
Out of State | $460
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Degree-seekers can earn one of two specialized online master's in management at SIU. The master of science in aviation management prepares enrollees for positions, such as flight operations, safety, or project manager.
The curriculum's core builds managerial skills and knowledge of the aviation business.
Aviation students use elective credits for specialized training, such as advanced airport administration and aviation safety management.
Learners with a technical or engineering background can pursue the master of science in quality engineering and management. Students learn lean management and quality assurance practices used by manufacturing and service companies. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and minimum cumulative 2.7-3.0 GPA.
What Can I Expect From an Online Master's in Management Program?
Earning an online master's in management helps students develop essential skills and learn how to make business decisions that drive profitability.
Succeeding in management requires a strong grasp of leadership, strategy, and project management. These skills help managers enhance organizational and departmental efficiency and effectiveness. Earning an online master's in management helps students develop these essential skills and learn how to make business decisions that drive profitability.
The credit requirements for master's in management programs vary by school, but it typically takes full-time students about two years to complete their degree. Many online programs use an asynchronous format, which provides increased flexibility by allowing students to complete coursework and watch lectures at any time of day. Some programs feature a synchronous online format, which requires mandatory virtual sessions and class meetings at set times. Additionally, hybrid options combine online instruction and in-person meetings.
Programs may offer concentration options in areas such as healthcare, project management, human resources, finance, and construction management. Choosing a concentration allows students to align their degree with their interests and career goals. Learners also receive industry-specific training.
Some online master's in management programs include a capstone or thesis requirement. These usually require students to complete a business project, either individually or as part of a team. Projects generally require students to use course concepts to solve complex business and management issues. Some programs use simulations in the capstone, while others allow learners to work with real-world clients.
Admission Requirements for Online Master's in Management Programs
Every online master's in management program possesses its own admission requirements. However, it is common for schools to require students to hold a bachelor's degree and complete prerequisite coursework in core subjects. Many schools also require applicants to submit GRE or GMAT test scores, letters of recommendation, and a resume.
Because requirements vary, prospective students should reach out to a school's admissions department directly to obtain exact information. For more general information, consult our Graduate Admissions Guide.
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Master's in Management Program?
The curriculum for a master's in management offers a comprehensive overview of several key subjects, including finance, economics, marketing, human resources, and management. Students pursuing a concentration complete additional coursework focusing on their subject area. While each program's curriculum differs, the following list details five common courses.
Management of Resources
Students learn about the process of aligning resources with an organization's goals. Coursework covers essential topics such as budgeting, resource allocation, and incentives and benefits. Students develop an understanding of how decisions impact an organization's finances and personnel. The course may also include an overview of cost-benefit analysis.
Leading Change
This course focuses on concepts that drive organizational change. Covered topics may include leadership theories, organizational theories, levels of organizational change, and transformational leadership. Some classes challenge students to create a plan to lead organizational change for a fictitious company. This gives students the opportunity to see how theories can work in practical situations.
Management Communication
Management communication courses typically teach students how to analyze audiences effectively and develop messaging that targets those audiences. Coursework teaches students to speak, write, and work with individuals and communicate across cultures. Some classes may include an additional overview of sales or marketing techniques to teach students how to shape effective communication strategies.
Management Research Methodologies
This course provides students with the skills and tools they need to gather and analyze data. The class typically focuses on the traditional qualitative and quantitative research practices managers use to make strategic business decisions. Some courses may emphasize research tools, such as focus groups or surveys, and the role they play in an organization's strategy.
Foundations of Management
Students explore management basics, such as topics related to marketing and finance, decision-making, and organizational behavior. The curriculum also provides an overview of effective management techniques across different industries and settings. The overall aim of the course is to build the skills, knowledge, and abilities students need to manage teams effectively.
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What Can I Do With an Online Master's in Management Degree?
Businesses and organizations across industries need effective leaders to manage teams, make strategic decisions, and create profitable business plans. Earning a master's in management teaches you the skills you need to qualify for a variety of rewarding career opportunities.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment in management positions to grow 5% between 2019 and 2029. This is faster than the average for all occupations and translates to the creation of about 505,000 new jobs over the next decade. According to BLS data, management professionals earn a median annual wage of $105,000, which is the highest among all major occupational groups.
Explore what a management job can do for you. Read our guide on business management careers for more information.
Healthcare Manager
Healthcare managers plan, direct, and coordinate the business activities of healthcare organizations. These professionals work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing and residential facilities, and government agencies. Job titles in this field include healthcare administrator, clinic director, and public health manager.
Marketing Manager
Management positions in marketing focus on driving consumer interest in products and/or services. Primary tasks include developing marketing and sales campaigns, negotiating advertising contracts, initiating market research studies, and managing a marketing team. Professionals in this field typically hold titles such as advertising, marketing, or promotions manager.
Manufacturing or Transportation Manager
Logistics professionals determine how to deliver products or services to consumers. As such, they coordinate sourcing, manufacturing, and transportation. Examples of common job titles include industrial production manager and transportation, storage, and distribution manager. Common tasks include implementing production standards, reviewing supply chains, and managing personnel.
Finance Manager
Professionals in finance evaluate the financial health of individuals or organizations. They complete tasks such as preparing financial statements, generating forecasts, and analyzing market trends. They may also supervise teams of accountants. Finance positions include financial manager, financial analyst, credit manager, risk manager, and chief financial officer.
Information Technology Manager
Management occupations in information technology (IT) focus on ensuring that an organization's technology functions properly. These managers analyze a firm's needs, recommend upgrades to improve processes, assess the costs of new projects, and oversee the installation and troubleshooting of technological systems. Graduates with a master's in management may qualify for positions such as IT director, chief information officer, and IT security manager.
Management Not for You? Check Out These Related Careers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Master's in Management Programs
Is a master's in management worth it?
Workers can qualify for many management positions with a bachelor's degree and several years of professional experience. However, some employers may consider candidates with less experience if they possess a master's in management. Additionally, earning a master's can prepare students to shift their career to a new area or industry.
What can I do with a master's in management?
The curriculum of a master's in management program typically covers a broad spectrum of management principles, preparing students for a variety of career paths. Graduates often advance into management roles within their current industry or workplace. Graduates may pursue careers as financial, administrative, human resources, and marketing managers. Wherever your passion lies, there is likely a management position that suits you.
Is it better to have an MBA or MS in management?
MBA degrees have a long-standing reputation that many employers respect. However, many of these programs cater to students with a business-related bachelor's degree or professional experience. A master of science in management serves both recent graduates with minimal work history and students with a nonbusiness undergraduate degree who want to shift or advance their career. Neither of these degrees is objectively better, but individuals should consider their work history and specific goals before making a choice.
How much money can I make with a master's in management?
The BLS reports management occupations earn the highest median annual wage of all major occupation groups: $105,000. However, your earning potential varies depending on the industry you choose. For example, the BLS lists the following as some of the top-paying industries for managers: securities and financial investments, monetary authorities, scientific research and development, and computer or peripheral equipment manufacturing.
What are the highest-paying jobs I can get with a master's in management?
According to the BLS, many management occupations boast median salaries above $100,000 annually, but some fields offer even more lucrative opportunities. Some of the positions commanding the highest salaries include advertising or marketing managers, architectural or engineering managers, information systems managers, financial managers, and sales managers.
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