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If you are planning on starting a business, sure—you can “wing it.”

Lots of entrepreneurs decide to try and “figure it out” as they go—and while this can work, you’re going to be taking a serious gamble. Why risk it? Instead, consider earning a degree in entrepreneurship. 

A master’s degree in entrepreneurship will give you the skills, tools, and mindset that you need to launch and grow your own business. You’ll not only become informed of the best ways to grow a company, but you’ll also be equipped with the skills and roadmaps you need to help turn your dreams into a successful business. 

Not all master’s degrees in entrepreneurship are built alike, however. You will need to find a degree that will provide you with the exact right skills you need to advance your career, regardless of whether you are building it from the ground up or growing an existing endeavor. 

An online master’s in entrepreneurship will prepare you with courses in financial management, marketing management, and startup venture tips. Upon graduation, you’ll have the skills necessary to manage a team of creative, impassioned thinkers and to challenge yourself with the ever-changing demands of the marketplace.

Whether you want to start a small business or design products or other new ventures for an existing company, a degree in entrepreneurship is the best way to skillfully launch your new career.  You could also launch a startup or work in consulting, recruiting, research and development, fundraising, and more. There are endless opportunities in a wide array of industries, from education to healthcare. 

Once you earn a degree in entrepreneurship, the choice is yours as to what you choose to do with it.

When choosing a program, it’s essential that you consider your career goals, the state of your business, the level of experience you already have, and even your lifestyle. Each master’s degree will have its own unique requirements and design, which makes it even more essential that you take the time to find the program for which you are most qualified—and more importantly, that meets your needs. 

For many students, an online master’s in entrepreneurship is the perfect choice. You’re busy—you’ve got a business to run! Likely, if you are considering a degree in entrepreneurship, you are probably already working full-time and juggling other life commitments. Fortunately, there are plenty of degrees out there that not only will offer you the training you need and deserve, but that won’t require you to relocate, either.

Online programs are integral for busy learners. Not only will you be able to study at the times that are most convenient for you, but you won’t have to leave your current commitments and obligations behind, either. Many online programs are designed with the working professional in mind. 

But not all online master’s in entrepreneurship are built alike. Each school will have its own unique curriculum and required components. You can rest assured, however, that there is a program out there that’s perfect for you.

Ready to get started? Here’s what you need to know in order to find the best affordable online master’s in entrepreneurship for you. 

Common Application and Admission Questions

It can be tough to find a degree in entrepreneurship that will best meet your goals. Ultimately, all of the degrees on this list will give you a solid foundation in the fundamentals of business, as well as in specialized areas of business such as venture capital, private equity, social branding, digital marketing, and much more. 

Each school varies in terms of what it requires for admission—and for you to graduate. These degrees are offered fully online so that you can advance your education—and advance your career. 

Before you start filling out applications, carefully consider exactly what you want to get out of your program. Most programs will require a minimum of one year of study, so you need to be prepared to commit to a substantial chunk of time when it comes to completing your degree. Luckily, most degrees are set up so that they can be completed on either a full-time or part-time basis, which will give you a bit more flexibility.

Although all of these degrees are offered online and can, therefore, be completed from essentially anywhere, you may want to choose a program located close to home. Why, you might ask?

Very few online master’s degrees in entrepreneurship have residency requirements. However, you may find that it’s helpful being located closer to campus for purposes of financial aid, enrollment, and networking. While an online program offers many of the same resources as a program that’s offered in a more traditional format, you may be able to “double-up” by taking classes online but reaping the benefits of a traditional campus, such as attending in-person career events or going to an in-person graduation ceremony.

Ultimately, though, the choice is yours, and all of the programs on this list can be completed entirely online. You can usually complete all aspects of your application online, too. Try to narrow down your college search to just a handful of schools, even if you want to keep your options open. After all, most colleges charge application fees, and those can really add up over time! 

When you’re ready to apply, research each individual school’s admission requirements so that you can ensure you are checking off all the right boxes. In general, you will be expected to submit an online application as well as copies of transcripts from any university you have attended in the past.

Many schools request that you meet certain benchmarks when it comes to your GPA and test scores. You will need an average GPA of 3.0 or higher, in most cases, and some schools require you to submit GMAT or GRE test scores, too. If English is not your first language, you might have to submit results from the TOEFL examination, too. 

Some other admissions requirements you might be expected to fulfill? Don’t be surprised if you are asked to send in letters of recommendation, a personal essay, or even a resume/CV. Some schools like to see that you have work experience, ideally in a business-related setting. You likely won’t need to have an undergraduate degree in business or a related field, although again, this can vary depending on the institution you choose. 

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

When you enroll in a master’s degree in entrepreneurship, you will likely take one to two years of courses. During the first year, you’ll likely study core business principles, like marketing, finance, accounting, and management. After that, you’ll be able to explore more specialized coursework in areas like venture capital and social branding. 

In some cases, you may be able to participate in optional hands-on experiences like business competitions, networking events, research programs, and study abroad excursions. 

These opportunities and courses all offer you a wonderful way to boost your understanding of entrepreneurship and to get a leg up on the competition after you graduate. However, they also require one valuable commodity that you might not have enough of as it is: time. 

For many students, quitting a full-time job to attend college simply is not practical. That’s why online master’s degrees are so flexible. Not only will you not have to worry about quitting your current job, but you can work your classes around your already jam-packed schedule. What could be more convenient?

Being able to work while you are taking classes is ideal, but are there other ways to pay for your education? Absolutely. When you start researching the best affordable online master’s degrees, you should also start looking into the affordability and total cost of a school. 

Don’t be afraid of private schools. Although many students gravitate automatically toward public schools, thinking they will be cheaper just because the “sticker price” on tuition is lower, that’s not always the case. In fact, many private schools offer tuition that, when combined with scholarships and other steep discounts, is less than or equal to that of public schools.

It is essential that you fill out the FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, as soon as possible in your college admissions journey. This form determines your eligibility for state and financial aid based on your income and assets from the prior year. You’ll have to submit evidence of this, such as tax returns, W2s, and other documents.

The list of options doesn’t end there. You should also take the time to complete any required forms that your school of choice requests of you. You might be eligible for institutional financial aid opportunities like scholarships, grants, work-study, and loans. 

Don’t forget about the dent that work study and graduate assistantships can put in your overall tuition bill! If you aren’t already working, this can be a viable way to both pay for your degree and gain valuable experience that will look great on your resume.

And if you are already working, don’t despair. Some schools even offer partnerships with various employers. You can often get much of your degree paid for through things like employer tuition reimbursement plans. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when it comes to paying for college. A master’s degree is a serious investment, but you don’t have to go it alone.

How Much Can I Make With an Entrepreneurship Degree? 

Once you earn a degree in entrepreneurship, you will not only be perfectly situated to launch your own startup or another type of business, but you’ll also be prepared for various careers at the managerial level. You could work in a variety of settings, so it can be tricky to provide an estimate for how much you would make with one of these degrees.

That said, the salaries for this field are, as a whole, quite lucrative. If you are a marketing director, for instance, you could make more than $110,000 per year, according to Payscale. As a CEO or CFO of a company, you could make more than $142,000 each year—potentially more, if you are in charge of a large or highly lucrative organization. 

Some other average salaries that might interest you? As a product manager, you could earn over $101,961 per year, but as a business development director, that salary is increased to $111,000 per year. As the president of a company, you could earn well over $122,829 per year. 

As you can see from the salaries lister drive, numbers of which are all garnered from the major reporting authority, Payscale, salaries for graduates of entrepreneurship programs tend to be quite a bit higher than the national average. 

Of course, these salaries can vary depending on other factors, such as your chosen career path, as well as where you live. The best paying states for graduates include New York, Illinois, Colorado, Massachusetts, and California, with top cities including New York City, Chicago, Denver, Boston, and San Francisco. 

Without a doubt, the best way to increase your earnings as a budding entrepreneur is to continue building your knowledge, skillset, and professional network. Only a master’s degree in entrepreneurship will enable you to do all three. Once you build your resume, your wages will increase dramatically. Across the board, workers with bachelor’s degrees earned about $17,000 per year less than those with graduate degrees—the investment really will pay off. 

Since a degree in entrepreneurship is so varied and customizable, you’ll also have plenty of job opportunities available to you. It’s up to you to decide where and how much you want to work, and in what niche or industry. Rest assured, there are plenty of ways you can increase your potential career earnings, too.

Earning a generalized master’s degree is a great place to start, but take it one step further. What courses and specializations can you pursue to further hone your expertise? Does your degree offer any customization options? Are there campus branches of professional organizations you can join, like the National Association of Women Business Owners, the United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship, or the Young Entrepreneur Council?

Look for opportunities wherever they might be found. Reach out to local employers for work and volunteer opportunities, and don’t be afraid to network. The more you know—and the more people you know!—the higher your earnings with a masters in entrepreneurship can ultimately be. 

What Are the Best Entrepreneurship Degrees?

We know that you have educational goals that you’re itching to pursue, but you may not know where to start. The editors of Master’s Programs Guide utilize a unique ranking methodology based on the following five aspects:

25% Overall Degree Affordability: Average cost of undergraduate and graduate tuition per school

25% Graduation Rate: Number of students who start at the university and actually finish there

20% Earnings Potential: Average mid-career salary of school alumni

20% Selectivity: The number of students who apply versus the number who actually get accepted

10% Online Graduate Offerings: The number of programs offered online in each department

At Master’s Programs Guide, we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one, and we want to help you reach your goals.

#1. University of Houston – Victoria

Global MBA 

The University of Houston, located in Victoria, TX, is the third-largest university in Texas. With more than 46,000 students, this school has a simple motto that, when translated from Latin, means “in time.”

There’s a lot of truth to that statement. When you earn a degree from the University of Houston, good things are sure to come to you— in time.

Luckily, when you choose to pursue one of the school’s online degree programs, you won’t have to wait very long to see some extremely rewarding results (and a return on your investment, to boot). 

This school has one of the largest MBA programs in the city of Houston, housed in the Victoria School of Business. The degree can be completed both online and face-to-face, with both options accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. 

In this program, you will learn from faculty who work full-time and are highly trained in business management. The degree is one of the most affordable in the country and allows learners to collaborate and learn from fellow students. Because the degree doesn’t have a certain prerequisite when it comes to undergraduate learning, you’ll find a diverse body of students from industries like healthcare, engineering, IT, banking, accounting, and more. 

This diversity lends itself well to online learning, where classes are discussion-based and require students to draw from past and present experiences on the job. There are two separate programs, depending on your goals and preferences.

The Strategic MBA is perfect for students who want to be able to interact closely with their fellow students and professors. A traditional program, it is offered with a blend of online courses and face-to-face instruction. Classes meet only once a week for maximum convenience. The global MBA, on the other hand, is perfect for learners who want a 100% online program. Classes are offered online in eight-week chunks. All classes are accelerated to help you move quickly through the program.

There is even a bridge program for learners who have already completed three years of a baccalaureate degree. This “fourth year” strategic MBA is perfect for students who want to get out into the workforce as quickly as possible. 

Want to add on to your growing list of credentials even more? The school offers a range of graduate certificates for learners who want to improve their business skills in certain niches. These can be pursued as stand-alone degrees or in conjunction with the MBA. Options include marketing management and corporate finance and investments. 

This program even comes with the option for a study abroad program. The university provides all students, both online and on-campus alike, opportunities to learn and discover business opportunities all over the world, including in places like London, China, Spain, Taiwan, and Mexico. 

#2.  Messiah College

MBA – Strategic Leadership

Messiah College is a private Christian school located in rural Pennsylvania. This school has a quaint setting and a charming origin story. Built on farmland, the school, originally known as the Messiah Bible School and Missionary Training Home, was founded in 1909. It was home to a school offering several Bible programs and an extensive high school curriculum. 

In less than two decades, the school became a junior college and started offering four-year degrees by 1951, which was when it changed its name to Messiah College. The school expanded rapidly, adding multiple liberal arts programs as well as more than 150 majors, minors, and concentrations in a variety of professional areas.

The school is divided into four separate schools—the School for the Arts; the School of Science, Engineering and Health; the School of the Humanities; and the School of Business, Education, and Social Sciences. It is this latter school in which the online MBA is housed.

This program is designed to educate leaders with the skills they need for a lifetime of service, influence, and success. The MBA comes with numerous concentrations, including those in digital marketing, management, strategic leadership, dietetics, and healthcare management. There are also certificates available in most of these areas, a great feature for students who want to specialize in several content areas at once. 

The curriculum of the MBA is designed and administered with adherence to the top professional and academic standards for the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Not only will you gain the skills you need to create and improve new products and services, but you’ll be mentored by faculty who have real-world experience and relevant credentials along every step of the way, too.

You can take just one eight-week course at a time, or choose to take courses that last only six weeks in the summer. All the courses are asynchronous, meaning you will be able to work according to your own schedule. 

Courses offer a blend of work, including videos, readings, lectures, assignments, discussion boards, presentations, and more. In most cases, you’ll be able to complete the degree in as few as 18 to 24 months—and most certificates can be finished in just a year. Sample classes include Managerial Account and Finance, Decision-Making with Data, and Leading Leaders. 

Before you even graduate, you will become part of a diverse community of leadership-minded professionals in a variety of industries. Class sizes are kept intentionally small so that you can develop lasting, meaningful relationships with your professors and peers. This school has an extensive alumni network that is conducive to many collaboration, personal networking, and career opportunities, too. 

Believe it or not, you can access all of these benefits without having to pay an arm and a leg, too. Tuition is incredibly affordable, with rates starting at just $710 per credit hour. You will pay less than $26,000 for the entire program, and all graduate students can apply for financial aid. Best yet, the cost per credit is what you pay—there are zero hidden fees. 

#3.  University of South Florida

MBA in Entrepreneurship

Ranked highly in a variety of fields and industries, the University of South Florida has a solid reputation for both its academic programs and its high research activity. The school is located in Tampa and is one of the largest research universities in the country. 

You won’t be pressed for options, either. The school has more than 200 academic programs to choose from, spread out among its many schools and colleges. Many of these are offered online, including the MBA in entrepreneurship. 

Offered by the Muma College of Business, the MBA in entrepreneurship is one of the best for students who want to learn ways they can bring their fresh entrepreneurial ideas to life. In addition to a common required course, New Venture Formation/Technology Venture Strategies, all entrepreneurship students are required to take two elective courses from a long list of options. Sample courses include New Product Development, Business Plan Development, Social Entrepreneurship, and more. 

This professional program is nationally ranked and is designed to support students as they hone their analytical and creative skills. It encourages collaboration with diverse classmates, allowing learners to interact with world-class guest speakers, faculty, and industry leaders. With a curriculum focused on data analytics, the program helps students develop skills in creativity, research, and leadership. 

Not only can it be completed fully only, but it’s also available on campus in both Tampa and Sarasota-Manatee, too. Entrepreneurship is not the only individualized area of study you can pursue. Other electives and discipline areas are available in topics like sustainable business, digital marketing, healthcare management, accounting, and more. 

The program offers extensive opportunities for students to collaborate in teams to carry out research, deliver presentations, and analyze case studies. All students are required to complete a final capstone course, Integrated Business Applications, which require them to produce an in-depth consulting project for an actual company. 

Students will be able to network with employers and classmates on a daily basis. There are two corporate connections events held on campus each year. These networking events connect students with corporate recruiters from companies like Coca-Cola, Tribridge, and more. 

Before you graduate from this program, you can request placement with an alumni mentor. You’ll learn all about how you can balance your work, life, and study obligations and discuss career paths you might take. You’ll also be granted a personal MBA coach to help consult you on the best steps for your program and your career. 

The school’s programs in business are some of the best in the country, with the school ranked highly by Washington Monthly and other publications. Despite its reputation for excellence, this program at the University of South Florida remains one of the least expensive on this list. For in-state students, the comprehensive cost for the entire program is just $17,000. For out-of-state students, the cost is slightly higher, but still extremely affordable at $32,000. 

There are extensive financial aid and scholarship opportunities available. In addition, many employers have corporate tuition assistance policies. These are all honored by the University of South Florida to help lower the cost of attendance even further.

#4.  Oklahoma State University

MBA Concentration in Entrepreneurship

Established on Christmas Day more than 129 years ago, Oklahoma State University is one of the oldest and most prestigious land-grant universities in the country. Founded under the Morrill Act, the school was originally known as the Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College, or Oklahoma A&M. 

Now considered the flagship school of the Oklahoma State University system, this school is one of the largest and most prestigious in the state, with thousands of alumni all over the world. The school has more than 200 degrees spread out among six colleges. Of these, the Master of Business Administration (MBA) in the Spears School of Business is one of the best. 

This program is perfect for aspiring leaders. It is equipped with multiple opportunities for concentration, including those in global marketing, energy business, economics, data science, and of course, entrepreneurship. 

The concentration in entrepreneurship requires 33 credit hours of online study. It is a well-rounded program that combines training in entrepreneurship with professional preparation in core business areas, like business analytics, finance, marketing, accounting, and more. 

Your studies won’t take place solely inside the classroom, either. You’ll be given the opportunity to test your new skills in a real-world setting, too. Core classes in the concentration include Ideation, Creativity, and Innovation and Launching a Business the First 100 Days. You’ll also take a “super core” and “functional core” of courses that include classes like Marketing Management and Organizational Behavior and Leadership.

The degree is loaded with opportunities for students to develop their professional skills. Not only are there built-in courses that are meant to acquaint students with the basics of etiquette, networking, and professional speaking, but there are also plenty of field study, trips, too. One hallmark feature is a trip to the SXSW Interactive Conference in Austin, TX. Here, students have access to new business launch events, a business plan competition, networking, tours, and more. 

Not only that, but the Spears School of Business has a full-time career coordinator who works to help students with their resumes, interviews, job searches, and other aspects of career placement, too. 

The entrepreneurship MBA at Oklahoma State is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, however, you don’t have to pay champagne prices for this kind of excellence. The Spears School of Business offers dozens of scholarships exclusively for business students.  Tuition is affordable, too, with lower rates available for in-state students and military personnel. 

Ready to apply? You’ll need to submit an online application and submit the GMAT exam for admission. Unfortunately, the GRE cannot be used in its place. You will need to submit transcripts and letters of recommendation when you apply as well. There are several start dates per year and you can choose to study either full- or part-time, depending on your needs and goals.  

#5.  Southern New Hampshire University

MBA in Entrepreneurship

Southern New Hampshire University is one of the best schools you can attend if you want a degree that works for you and with you—instead of against you. The school is considered one of the fastest-growing universities in the country, a growth that has been spurred in part by the fact that SNHU uses an open enrollment policy. 

What does this mean? To apply to an undergraduate program, all you need is a GED or high school diploma. Applying for a graduate degree is just as simple. In most cases, you just need to fill out an online application and submit transcripts for any schools you have attended in the past. 

You don’t have to submit an application fee, and most of the time, you won’t have to submit any supplemental materials, either (although this varies depending on the program). No GMAT or GRE scores are required, either. 

At  SNHU, you’ll be able to choose from dozens of high-quality online programs. One of the best is the MBA in entrepreneurship. This degree will enable you to explore the models and strategies you can use to launch and operate a consultancy business—as well as ways to evaluate existing business you might want to invest in.

It’s a great program for aspiring and current business owners, budding entrepreneurs, and top-tier corporate executives alike. With a curriculum that can be completed in just over a year, the program is relevant and well-suited to addressing a range of real-world challenges. 

In this degree, you will learn from business professionals who have specialized experience in their fields. Many of them are adjunct instructors who teach in addition to running their businesses full time. 

These courses are offered with maximum flexibility and convenience. You can attend class when it’s convenient for you. You will have 24/7 access to your coursework and can take as many or as few classes as you would like during a ten-week term. 

Some classes you’ll take as an MBA student? You’ll cover content like consulting, franchising, entrepreneurship, and small business management, just to name a few core pieces. 

The curriculum is designed and accredited with the approval of multiple governing agencies and industry patterns. You’ll learn from dedicated faculty members as you complete your degree in as little as 15 months. You will also receive extensive support from dedicated career and academic advisors who are uniquely specialized in your area of study. 

Tuition at SNHU is some of the lowest in the country. Tuition rates seldom increase, a rarity when it comes to universities around the nation. You’ll pay just $627 per credit hour, with substantial discounts available for military personnel.

With a reputation for success spanning more than 70 years—and an MBA program that has been setting records for more than 40— this program is clearly one of the best. 

#6. California Lutheran University

MBA in Enterprise Innovation and Entrepreneurship

California Lutheran University might be a private university affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, but you don’t have to practice the Lutheran faith to be admitted. This college is nonsectarian and has a reputation as being one of the top four-year private colleges in Ventura County, CA. 

The school has a gorgeous campus in Thousand Oaks, CA that has served as the backdrop for many films, including Wuthering Heights, Gunsmoke, Lassie, and Spartacus.  However, you don’t have to be studying on this university’s picture-perfect campus to benefit from its high caliber reputation. 

The academic programs at California Lutheran, or “Cal Lutheran,” as it is often called, are some of the best in the nation. 

When you earn an MBA from Cal Lutheran, you’ll gain the insight, experience, and inspiration you need to succeed in your career. The program is perfect for students who want both the general instruction of a broad-based MBA program along with a rigorous, in-depth curriculum in an area of interest. 

Enterprise innovation and entrepreneurship is not the only concentration you can choose in this degree. Other professional tracks include human capital management, finance, IT management, marketing, and international business. You can also pursue a general track, if you so choose.

The degree is offered fully online, fully on-campus, or as a hybrid of the two. You can take classes on a full- or part-time basis, with most students taking 12 to 24 months to complete their degrees. 

Choose to study online, and you’ll take five terms, each of which consists of eight weeks. You can study on the weekends and evenings if you so choose, completing 15 courses that lead to 45 credit hours of study. 

You’ll be given a great deal of flexibility when it comes to designing your curriculum. You will have to take eight core courses that are required of all MBA students, such as Organizational Behavior, Marketing Management, and Business Ethics and Law. However, you can then move on to courses that align with your professional concentration. 

For the enterprise innovation and entrepreneurship track, you will take classes that build your skills and motivation as an entrepreneur, such as Agile Product Development and Entrepreneurial Marketing and Selling. 

With tuition that starts at just $855 per credit hour, you can’t beat the value of this school. Financial aid is available, and applying for admission is easy. Cal Lutheran has an assured admission program for the MBA, which guarantees that all Cal Luthern seniors and alumni are offered guaranteed admission into the MBA as long as a 3.0 GPA was maintained. 

You can apply for admission at any time of the year, as applications are considered on a rolling, year-round basis. You can start at the beginning of any term. To apply, you’ll send in a completed application and official transcripts. You will meet with an admission counselor to discuss your career plans prior to admission, and you’ll also be asked to submit a personal statement and two professional letters of recommendation. 

The GMAT is required, but you can waive this requirement if you show an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher or at least one credits of graduate coursework completed to date. 

#7.  Post University

Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Entrepreneurship

Believe it or not, Post University first opened its doors in 1890 as the National Shorthand School. Offering training in business writing, bookkeeping, and typing, the school was later renamed Waterbury Business College before it was named Post in 1931. 

Although its programs today are a far cry from those of the past—the university currently offers more than 25 undergraduate and graduate programs in online, day, and evening courses, with satellite centers all over the state of Connecticut—it remains one of the top business schools in the state. 

It’s also a top pick for distance or nontraditional learners. In fact, Post first rose to notoriety when it began offering accelerated degree programs in the late 1970s. These Programs were geared specifically at helping Vietnam veterans earn their college diplomas. Today, Post continues to offer a large variety of online programs. 

Offered both online as well as on campus in Waterbury, CT, the Master of Business Administration in entrepreneurship includes a core curriculum of courses that will help students lay the foundation for a specialty and capstone of choice. In addition to entrepreneurship, students can choose from concentrations such as corporate innovation, healthcare systems leadership, finance, marketing, leadership, project management, or multidisciplinary. 

The degree is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business School and Programs. You’ll gain extensive hands-on experience through real-world activities like engaging with franchise case studies, writing business plans, and developing new services and products. You will work closely with attentive faculty and staff as well as esteemed industry partners as you navigate your way through the rewarding curriculum. 

You will take a total of 39 credit hours before you graduate, with a bulk of these courses required regardless of specialty. For example, all students are required to take classes such as Project Management and Business Strategy and Planning. However, when you choose to specialize in entrepreneurship, you’ll also gain experience in new venture creation, operational financial management, and acquisitions. 

Whether you are hoping to open your own business or want to add value to your existing enterprise, this concentration could be right for you. 

To apply, you will need to submit an online application as well as an official transcript with a conferred bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. You should have a GPA of 3.0 or higher along with two letters of recommendation and a personal statement. 

The program is highly affordable, with online tuition starting at just $730 per credit hour. Significant financial aid is available, including scholarships, grants, and loans. The school also has several programs in place for veteran and active-duty military personnel and their families, too. 

#8.  Everglades University

Master’s Degree in Entrepreneurship

Everglades University may be located way down in the swamp, but that doesn’t mean you have to live in the Panhandle State in order to receive an exceptional business education. 

This university, located in Boca Raton, FL, educates more than 2,000 students per year—many of whom choose to attend online. The school has more than a dozen online degrees at the undergraduate and graduate level. 

To complete the master’s in entrepreneurship, you’ll need to complete a total of 36 credits, with core courses covering all kinds of topics in the industry like business strategy, venture creation, and organizational behavior. You’ll gain deep insight into both the theory and practical applications of business, and you’ll also learn how to weigh the risks and rewards that are involved with potential new business ventures.

If you’re a transfer student, this degree is one of the best you can choose. The school accepts a large amount of transfer credits (on a case by case basis, of course) and most students are able to graduate in as little as 48 weeks of study. 

The degree, which is offered both online and on campus, will not only allow you to pursue later doctoral coursework but will also prepare you for a rewarding and fulfilling career as an entrepreneur. You’ll learn the attributes, skills, and behaviors you need to be successful in an entrepreneurial environment.

Although this program is challenging, it is flexible and convenient enough for online students to complete independently from any location. You’ll take 33 core credits of entrepreneurship courses like Leadership Skills for Managers, Business Strategy for Competitive Advantage, and New Venture Creation. 

Before graduating, you will also be required to complete a final capstone course. This course, consisting of three credit hours, will enable you to synthesize everything you have learned in your courses, bringing your training together into a final, relevant, real-world project. 

Ready to apply? You can do so almost entirely online. For starters, you will need to complete an online application for admission and provide an official transcript of your bachelor’s degree. A specific major or certain business coursework are not required, with the exception of coursework in accounting and basic statistics. You should possess a minimum of a 2.0 grade point average on a 4.0 scale.

It’s Important to note that this program does also require submission of GMAT test scores. You will need to have at least a 500 on this exam, but you can substitute a score of 290 on the GRE. You will also be expected to pay a nonrefundable application fee. 

This program is one of the most affordable, with the financial aid department providing plenty of services to help reduce the cost of attendance.  The average tuition rate is just $800 per credit hour, charged on a semester basis. Each semester lasts just sixteen weeks (or four months) and you can take up to 18 credits per semester as long as you are in good academic standing. 

#9. University of North Carolina

MBA Entrepreneurship Concentration

If you are planning on pursuing an MBA, you might as well get it from one of the best—the University of North Carolina is a highly ranked university that is ranked as the best value in public education. 

This accolade comes from both Kiplinger’s as well as The Princeton Review, two publications that agree that UNT offers a great return on investment. You don’t have to sacrifice convenience for quality in this case. Instead, you’ll enjoy all the benefits of a public research institution at a so-called “Public Ivy” without having to leave your job or home. 

Although the MBA is extremely popular, the entrepreneurship track is an even better option for learners who plan on starting their own businesses. You’ll be able to take classes in everything from entrepreneurial finance to venture capital, social entrepreneurship, business plan analysis, and much more. This concentration has several additional “sub-concentrations” for you to choose from, too.

For example, the founder track is a great option for learners who want to start their own companies or joint start-ups. The funder track, on the other hand, is great for students interested in learning more about professional investing. The final track, the “intrapreneur” track, is for students interested in managing private ventures. 

In the entrepreneurship program at UNC, offered via the Kenan-Flagler Business School, you’ll learn everything you need to know to develop a thoughtful and successful business. You will enhance and refine strategies to help you secure funding, produce business plans, and develop your business vision. You will take a variety of courses with other MBA students along with core courses in enterprise such as Managing Innovation, Pricing, and New Ventures Discovery.

All courses are taught by faculty members who have extensive experience in launching new business ventures. Courses are not only practical, but they’re collaborative and relevant, too. The curriculum is developed with the assistance of notable alumni who have been playing a role in natural ventures for many years. 

In fact, alumni have worked with (and in some cases, founded!) major companies such as Hulu, Uber, Goldman Sachs, Cisco, Lonerider Brewing Company, and more. Students are continuously supported by these executives and business professionals, who work closely with current students and recent alumni to help pair them with professional opportunities and learning experiences. 

The end result? Career success. No matter where your interests lie, you are sure to find what you are looking for at this flagship school. 

To apply, you will need to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university along with two years of professional experience. You must submit a transcript, two letters of recommendation, a resume or CV, and two personal essays. Official GMAT or GRE test scores are required, but these can be waived if you have more than five years of professional experience. Interviews and an application fee are also required. 

Tuition for this program isn’t the most affordable you’ll find, but substantial financial aid is available. You’ll be able to apply for various resources like student loans, scholarships, and tuition assistance from employers. The school also partners with several professional organizations to offer scholarships just for MBA students, too. 

#10. University of Arizona

MBA with Entrepreneurship Concentration

Located in Tucson, AZ, the University of Arizona is considered a flagship university with a total enrollment of more than 43,000 students.

Despite that booming population, you will never feel as though you are just another face in the crowd one you enroll here. The school has the designation of being a very high research institution, and with that reputation comes an attention to detail and to student success that cannot be overlooked.

Here, you’ll be able to take all kinds of classes that will enhance your business expertise—all while you are working alongside faculty members who are some of the best in their field. You can specialize in a variety of areas, including startup capital and venture capital, as you take core courses that will build your general expertise in business. 

The MBA  at the University of Arizona is a top-ranked program that is perfect for learners who have schedules that would make on-campus programs difficult to maneuver. You’ll be able to take your classes from anywhere and access course materials 24/7. Plus, there are six start dates per year, so you don’t have to worry about arranging your life to start your classes at a certain time. 

In this program, you will learn how to become a true leader. You’ll gain the same skills as full-time MBA students studying on campus do, but you won’t have to relocate in order to do so. You’ll complete 45 credits before you graduate. You may take as long as two and a half years or as few as 14 months to complete your studies.

Entrepreneurship isn’t the only concentration you can choose, either. The degree has five other options to choose from, including privacy and security, marketing, management and organizations, health care management, and finance.

Regardless of the option you choose, you’ll take core classes like Survey of Finance as Analyst, Managing Ethics in Organizations, and Market-Based Management. The curriculum is rigorous and analytically-oriented. You’ll have access to all kinds of experiential learning, business communication, and managerial activities to help build your skills.

The program even comes with numerous built-in opportunities for hands-on learning. For example, you can choose to attend a “global business experience” trip that will open your eyes to the ways of business in other corners of the world. 

This school is one of the top-ranked schools by multiple publications, including U.S. News & World Report, Times Higher Education, Forbes, and more. It’s ranked highly across the board, but especially for its value and its programs in business management and entrepreneurship. Tuition is affordable, with the total cost coming in at just $45,000 for the entire program. Scholarship and financial aid are also available (for instance, the school has a 10% tuition scholarship for all military personnel and veterans) to help offset the cost of attendance. 

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS 

#11. Temple University

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Degree: MBA Entrepreneurship degree

Net Price: $23,192

Website

#12. Fayetteville State University

Location: Fayetteville, NC

Degree: MBA with a Concentration in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $5,685

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#13. Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Location: Durant, OK

Degree: Master of Business Administration with an Emphasis in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $8,490

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#14. University of West Florida

Location: Pensacola, FL

Degree: Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $9,091

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#15. University of Massachusetts

Location: Amherst, MA

Degree: MBA with a Focus in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $18,257

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#16. Western Carolina University

Location: Cullowhee, NC

Degree: Master of Innovation Leadership and Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $15,021

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#17. University of Arkansas

Location: Fayetteville, AR

Degree: MBA in Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $13,256

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#18. Clarion University of Pennsylvania

Location: Clarion, PA

Degree: MBA Innovation and Entrepreneurship Concentration

Net Price: $19,297

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#19. Nova Southeastern University

Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL

Degree: MBA With a Major In Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $25,867

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#20. Cedarville University

Location: Cedarville, OH

Degree: MBA Innovation and Entrepreneurship Concentration

Net Price: $23,360

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#21. Concordia University

Location: Austin, TX 

Degree: MBA in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $23,606

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#22. National Louis University

Location: Chicago, IL

Degree: MBA in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $14,285

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#23. East Texas Baptist University

Location: Marshall, TX

Degree: Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Entrepreneurial Leadership

Net Price: $21,850

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#24. Lindenwood University

Location: St Charles, MO

Degree: MBA in Entrepreneurial Studies

Net Price: $18,654

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#25. California University of Pennsylvania

Location: California, PA

Degree: MBA in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $18,780

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#26. University of Illinois

Location: Champaign, IL

Degree: MBA in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $12,248

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#27. Suffolk University

Location: Boston, MA

Degree:  MBA with a concentration in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $33,197

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#28. Northeastern University

Location: Boston, MA

Degree: MBA in Innovation Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $34,245

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#29. Endicott College

Location: Beverly, MA

Degree: MBA in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $35,472

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#30. Regent University

Location: Virginia Beach, VA

Degree: MBA – Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $16,779

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#31. Azusa Pacific University

Location: Azusa, Ca

Degree: MBA in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $29,152

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#32. Peru State College

Location: Peru, NE

Degree: Master of Science in Organizational Management – Entrepreneurial and Economic Development

Net Price: $14,846

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#33. Benedictine University

Location: Lisle, IL

Degree: MBA in Entrepreneurship and Managing Innovation

Net Price: $25,508

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#34. Brandman University

Location: Irvine, CA

Degree: Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $27,446

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#35. Samford University

Location: Birmingham, AL

Degree: MBA in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $30,594

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#36. American Military University

Location: Charles Town, WV

Degree: MBA in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $33,034

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#37. Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

Location: State College, PA

Degree:  MBA in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $26,151

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#38. Bellevue University

Location: Bellevue, NE

Degree: MBA in Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $9,635

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#39. Colorado Technical University

Location: Colorado Springs, CO

Degree: Master of Business Administration – Entrepreneurship

Net Price: $15,478

Website

#40. Independence University

Location: Salt Lake City, UT 

Degree: MBA with an Entrepreneurship degree

Net Price:  $12,201

Website

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE 40 BEST NO-GMAT ONLINE MBA PROGRAMS & 50 MOST POPULAR ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREES!

The MBA. The Master of Business Administration. It is one of the most popular and in-demand graduate degrees in the country. 

Why? The world of business is always evolving. It is also competitive. To develop the skills you need to succeed in such an environment, you need the right training. Sure, lots of what you need to know will come from real-world work experience. That is why most graduate degrees in business require at least a couple of years of work experience for admission.

However, there’s nothing quite like the rigorous curriculum of an online MBA in Strategic Management to show you the ropes. Nor will you be able to access a professional network of alumni, peers, and industry professionals quite like you will while you are pursuing an online MBA in Strategic Management 

Many people think that all business degrees are alike, with core classes centered around finance, marketing, economics, and other business fundamentals. In reality, there are many different directions you can take. 

Perhaps you want to focus your studies on accounting. You can do that by earning an MBA with a concentration in accounting. Maybe you’d rather emphasize the applications of business in a healthcare setting. 

Yet for many students, earning an online MBA in strategy is the best choice for their careers.

What is a strategic management MBA at an online business school? This degree will allow you to approach the complex world report of business like a game of chess. You’ll work to arrange all the moving pieces in an enterprise. You will anticipate and pursue opportunities for advancement, craft smart business tactics, and use your insights to help your company succeed in the massive world report of business.

Do you want to build solid decision-making skills? Do you want to learn more about the market factors that help a corporation succeed? Earning one of the top online MBAs in strategy is the right choice for you. 

And if the thought of earning an online MBA in Strategic Management appeals to you, you might want to consider earning that degree online. There are countless benefits to pursuing an online education. You will be able to arrange your course schedule so that it accommodates your other commitments (such as caring for children or attending a full-time job). Plus, online degrees often tend to be more affordable.

The costs of college continue to rise. There are lots of reasons to consider online schooling. You won’t have to worry about paying for things like room and board or transportation. Even the per credit hour tuition for online programs tends to be a lot cheaper than what students pay on campus. 

If you think that online degrees are lower in quality or prestige than their on-campus counterparts, think again. Online programs hold the same recognition from employers and universities as do their on-campus counterparts. Most of the time, you won’t even know the difference by looking at your diploma or transcript!

Ready to take your career in business to the next level? Consider pursuing one of these 20 best strategic management online MBA degrees. You won’t regret it. 

Common Application and Admission Questions

So how do you apply to the best online MBA strategy programs?

Strategic management is a discipline that requires you to conduct systematic research, engage in careful planning. You will analyze every aspect of business. You’ll apply your skills in strategic management to just about any kind of business in any industry. Your degree plan and admissions requirements may vary. It depends on the exact route you want to pursue with your career. 

The skills that you will acquire in most strategic management MBAs are about the same. You’ll learn how to conduct thorough business research . You will learn how to analyze the results of that research as they apply to a real-world setting. You’ll become skilled in data analysis and also learn soft skills that are necessary for the world report of business. For example, you’ll need to become skilled in analytical thinking, communication, leadership, and decision-making.

Most strategic management degrees take about 12 to 24 months to complete. You can take less or more time to finish your studies if needed. You may also be able to pursue an additional concentration, minor, or dual degree if you choose, too. In a strategy concentration, you’ll complete core courses like:

• Corporate Strategy
• Global Strategy
• Strategic Management of Technology
• Strategic Leadership
• Global Business Strategy
• International Business Management
• Global Supply Chain Management
• Smart Strategic Management
• Human Resources
• Executive Leadership
• Organizational Leadership and Business Strategy
• Corporate Strategy
• Operations Management

Make sure the programs to which you apply have all of these features (and others you might care about) before you apply. Don’t waste your time applying to dozens of schools. Instead, narrow your list to just three or four schools you think might be a good fit. That way, you won’t be faced with overwhelming decision fatigue!

When you’re ready to sit down and start filling out those applications, you’ll need to have a few things on hand. First and foremost is your credit card. Some schools now waive fees for online applications. However, most online MBA in Strategic Management programs still require hefty application fees. 

You will need a bachelor’s degree with coursework that shows you are well prepared for graduate work in business. A major in business or a related field (like economics, marketing, or accounting) isn’t often necessary. It may make you a more competitive candidate. It will reduce the number of undergraduate business prerequisites you have to take, too. 

You will need to furnish transcripts showing that you completed this bachelor’s degree. Most business schools have minimum GPA requirements. This is often a 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. 

The GMAT or GRE is also often required. You might need to submit things like a personal essay, one professional letter of recommendation or more, and a current resume, too. In some cases, a full interview with the admissions team at your school might be required. 

Before you fill out a single application, make sure you take the time to do your research and to ensure that each of the schools to which you are applying will be a good fit for you. Talk with the admission team about requirements. Whenever possible, students pay a visit to campus! Yes, even if you are studying online!. This will give you a good idea of whether you are making the right decision.

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

If you’ve decided to earn an MBA in strategy online, you’ve made a smart choice in regards to your financial future. The potential return on investment for one of these degrees is high. In other words, you may earn a high salary when you graduate with a strategic management online MBA. 

Finding the money upfront to pay for such a degree, though, is a challenge. The top 100 schools in the country cost, on average, more than $75,000 for the program’s lifespan! Online degrees tend to be less expensive at face value than their on-campus counterparts.

You will also be well served by finding funding to offset the cost of graduate school. This is funding that you won’t have to pay back. 

Begin by completing the FAFSA, or the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This application will analyze your financial need by taking a look at key financial documents like your W2s and tax returns.  

This will determine your eligibility for state and federal aid such as grants and subsidized loans. There tend to be fewer need-based grants available to graduate students than there are to undergraduates. Your options might be limited.

The good news is that most universities work hard to pick up the slack. They offer a variety of need-based grants and scholarships. Most universities also offer merit-based awards.

Another source of funding you may pursue is school-based employment. Many business schools offer fellowships and assistantships. These will allow you to gain work experience in your field. You will also have a bulk of your graduate school costs paid for in full. They tend to be competitive. Apply early and put your best foot forward for consideration. 

Once you’ve exhausted those options, you may want to look at other kinds of scholarships and funding sources. There are plenty of scholarships for prospective students interested in an online MBA program out there. That’s even more true if you are interested in applying for a targeted award. These are often aimed at increasing the number of minorities or other underrepresented groups in the world report of business. 

Check with local philanthropic organizations, corporate sponsors, or even your own employer. Your own company might be a goldmine when it comes to finding funding to pay for school. Many businesses offer tuition remission plans that pay for part or all of your graduate school costs. This is often in exchange for a commitment to work for them for a set number of years.

The key to landing funding for your master’s degree is to apply early. Make yourself the best  candidate possible. Try to boost your GMAT scores and GPA before you apply. Apply early to your MBA programs. Once accepted, most online MBA programs will consider all candidates when awarding scholarships. Apply too late, though, and you’ll be out of the running. Aspiring business professionals should always apply early to their MBA programs!

Research, research, research. Leave no stone unturned when you’re looking for ways to pay for your credit hours for the graduate degree. It might seem like a frustrating, time-consuming process now. You’re sure to thank yourself later.

How Much Can I Make With an MBA in Strategy? 

As the person responsible for building a company’s market strategy, you’re going to hold a lot of responsibility. As a result, you’ll need to have a high level of expertise. With that expertise often comes a high salary.

Payscale reports that MBAs of all kinds are often associated with average salaries of $85,000 or more. Earn a specialization. You’ll earn even more. An article by Poets and Quants notes that students who choose a specialization in strategy make almost $14,000 more than those who specialize in any other field!

You’ll be able to find employment across a variety of sectors. Some of the leading employers for individuals with MBAs in strategy include:

• Amazon
• Microsoft
• AT&T
• Deloitte Consulting LLP

Businesses of all types and sizes want to hire MBA grads. It makes sense that your average salary might vary, too. 

Where you live will play a role in your earnings. The best places to look for high-paying work in business strategy are places where large corporations often tend to be headquartered. Examples include New York City, San Francisco, Chicago, Seattle, and Atlanta. 

There are several careers that you might want to consider if a high salary is at the top of your priority list. One of these is as a management consultant. Management consultants are sometimes referred to management analysts. This is a person who will reach and recommend ways to improve a client or organization’s efficiency. You may earn an average salary of more than $85,260, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

You might also consider working as a senior product manager. You could earn an average salary of $105,480, with your potential salary increasing with the more education you pursue. There are some entry-level jobs in this field for candidates who possess bachelor’s degrees. Yet you’re more apt to land a job with an MBA.

Another potential option is a job as a finance manager. A finance manager is a professional who creates financial reports, develops plans, and directs investment activities. This is all to help organizations meet their long-term financial goals. Again, a bachelor’s degree is all you need for entry into this career, but you’ll earn a higher salary (in most cases, in excess of $129,890, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics!) with an online master of business administration in strategic management.

The beauty of these jobs is that they are high-paying and in high demand. That’s great news. A high paying job isn’t worth much if you aren’t able to find one to begin with! The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the job for management consultants is expected to grow by 11% by 2029. Jobs for finance managers are expected to increase by a whopping 15%. Finance managers, like general and operations managers, are in high demand. In addition to working as a financial manager, there are also jobs for operations managers, sales managers, and other business professionals in just about every industry. MBA students have no shortage of jobs to choose from! Doctoral programs are also popular pathways for graduates.

Why are these general and operations managers jobs so in demand? There are lots of reasons,. One of the biggest is because they are specialized and require a unique level of training that not everybody will have. These aren’t jobs that are outsourced to computers! You need to have some serious business chops and the drive to be successful. And, of course, to earn one of the 20 best strategic management MBA degrees.

What Are the Best MBA in Strategy Degrees?

We know that you have educational goals that you’re itching to pursue, but you may not know where to start. The editors of Master’s Programs Guide utilize a unique ranking methodology based on the following five aspects:

25% Overall Degree Affordability: Average cost of undergraduate and graduate tuition per school

25% Graduation Rate: Number of students who start at the university and finish there

20% Earnings Potential: Average mid-career salary of school alumni

20% Selectivity: The number of students who apply versus the number who get accepted

10% Online Graduate Offerings: The number of programs offered online in each department

At Master’s Programs Guide, we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one, and we want to help you reach your goals.

#1. The University of Texas at Dallas

Online MBA with a focus in Strategic Management

The University of Texas at Dallas opened with one singular goal. That was to serve as a private research arm of Texas Instruments.

Today, the university has expanded to offer more than 140 academic programs. These are across eight schools. There are more than 50 research institutes and centers. It is renowned for its rapid growth in research. It also has competitive admissions policies. This school offers one of the very top online MBAs in strategy. The college of business here is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

The Naveen Jindal School of Management offers the strategic management MBA. The curriculum is online. Exams are administered as components of:

• courses
• uploaded via email
• proctored at approved testing centers

The degree is ranked as the sixth-best online MBA program in the country. It features 15 different concentrations. There are 13 dual-degree options and almost 60 electives for you to choose from. Prospective students in these MBA programs will begin their studies by taking two undergraduate business prerequisites. There is one in Communications for Management and the other in Quantitative Foundation of Business.

Prospective students will complete 32 semester hours of core courses such as:

• Financial Management
• Strategic Management
• Strategic Leadership
• Supply Chain Management
• Managing IT in the Analytics Edge
• Relationship Selling Strategies
• Business Intelligence
• Managerial Accounting
• Managerial Economics
• Corporate Governance
• Labor Relations and Workforce Management
• Organizational Communication
• Managing Innovation
• Global Enterprise Strategy and Strategic Management
• International Markets

Then you can pursue electives and strategic leadership concentration courses to prepare you to become a management analyst. In addition to the focus in strategic management, this MBA also comes with concentrations for prospective students in:

• Accounting
• Energy management
• Analytics
• Innovation and entrepreneurship
• Healthcare leadership and management

The strategic management concentration focuses on corporate-level strategic management. You’ll learn how to implement strategic designs from start to finish. You will also learn how to lead in any setting. Your core courses will also integrate:

• finance
• organizational theory
• economics
• accounting

You’ll be able to help your organization create and leverage a sustainable, competitive advantage. Online students will be prepared to become business professionals in any field. They could work as a management analyst or go on to further study, using their MBA programs to pursue doctoral programs. 

You can even choose to tack on an additional academic certificate. There are several options available. These include:

• Executive and professional coaching
• Organizational consulting
• Transformational leadership and strategic leadership
• Project management.

The professional management MBA is available 100% online. There’s also a full-time on campus version. There’s even an evening and flex setting. You can pursue an MBA regardless of your work schedule or other commitments. 

The beauty of this MBA program is that you can apply and begin your coursework in any semester. There’s no prescribed sequence you must follow. It is convenient and flexible. Courses are taught on your schedule. You’ll be granted access to committed academic and career support every step of the way. 

Ready to apply and begin the next step in your career journey? You’ll need to submit an online application and a $50 application fee. Upload digital copies of your unofficial transcripts and test scores. Mail official documents after you’re admitted. You must supply GMAT or GRE scores that are no more than five years old. You’ll also need a professional letter of recommendation, an essay, and a detailed resume. Interviews are not required for online learners. 

#2. University of North Texas

Online MBA with a focus in Strategic Management

The University of North Texas offers a superb online master of business administration with a strategic management and business strategy concentration. This is the flagship institution of the UNT System. The University of North Texas in Denton, TX first opened its doors as a nonsectarian, coeducational teachers college. It is viewed as one of the top schools to attend if you wanted to become a teacher. yet this former normal school now offers degrees in more than a dozen colleges and schools.

You won’t just learn inside the classroom here, either. You will be able to practice what you preach! The school is classified among “R1: Doctoral Universities—Very High Research Activity.” It spends more than $78.4 million on research in 2019 alone. As an MBA candidate here, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to put your training into practice.

The University of North Texas has more than 80 online program options. It enrolls almost 80,000 students each year. The college of business here is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The Master of Business Administration comes with multiple specialization options. These include:

• Sport entertainment management
• Organizational behavior
• Human resource management
• Supply chain analytics.

For aspiring strategic managers, the focus in strategic management is the way to go. It consists of 12 total classes and 36 credit hours. You’ll learn the skills you need to manage an organization. You will also learn how to help an organization develop broad policies to meet its goals. 

This is an accelerated program. It features classes that are taught 100% online. They are broken down into convenient eight-week chunks. You can also sign up for classes in this strategic management degree that are five weeks long each in the summer. There are start dates six times each year. Because of this flexible scheduling, you can earn your degree in as little as 14 months.

Regardless of the concentration you choose, you’ll learn marketable skills in this master of business administration with a specialization in strategic management. These include:

• teamwork
• ethical conduct
• quantitative analysis

You’ll take a series of core classes that are required for students in all concentrations. Examples include:

• Organizational Behavior and Analysis
• Leveraging IT for Business
• Marketing Management
• Successful Strategy and Strategic Management
• Workforce Management and Labor Relations
• Managerial Accounting
• Business Intelligence

Then, you’ll take strategic management courses such as Operations Management and Strategic Supply Chain Management. 

This MBA program is perfect for students who are interested in leading in managerial positions. It is taught by faculty who were recruited from internationally recognized universities. They represent a wide variety of teaching experiences and research expertise. You’ll gain key business insights from these business professionals. There are plenty of opportunities for experiential learning. Your concentration courses will allow you to solve a real world business problem and add to your current resume for leadership roles. You could use your MBA programs credentials to apply for doctoral programs later on, too.

It’s also affordable. The average student who is a resident of Texas will pay just $23,900 for tuition and fees. That’s for the entire program! There are multiple start dates each year. This makes attending classes easier and more convenient than ever. 

To apply for the MBA at the University of North Texas, you will need to meet admissions requirements both of the graduate school and of the College of Business. You must supply official transcripts along with GMAT or GRE scores. You should also submit a 600- to 700-word essay. You’ll also need a resume with work experience and two letters of recommendation. 

#3. University of Delaware

Online MBA with an emphasis in Strategic Management

You’ll find a top MBA in business strategy at the University of Delaware. The University of Delaware is a groundbreaking institution located in Newark, DE. It is truly a school of “firsts.” This is one of just four schools on the continent to offer a major in art conservation. It was also the first university in the country to offer a study abroad program. 

There are more than 300 degrees for students at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral level to choose from. The University of Delaware is a smart choice for students interested in pursuing an online MBA. You’ll love visiting the university’s modern campus in Newark. But you’ll also love the multitude of resources that will be available to you as an online learner in the master of business administration with a strategic management concentration. The college of business here is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

This online MBA program offers many benefits. Each class follows an intensive seven-week format. You can learn when and where it is most convenient for you. You don’t have to have a bachelor’s degree in business in order to attend these online MBA programs. You’ll be able to collaborate with other learners from a wide variety of backgrounds. This is one of the best online MBAs if you want to develop a successful strategy and strategic management skillset that will help you make sound business decisions. 

Classes in this MBA program are taught by Ph.D.-qualified faculty. They have extensive industry experience and education. You’ll have access to a personal career coach. You’ll also get scholarships and other forms of financial aid to help you succeed without spending a fortune.

The strategy emphasis is not the only concentration for you to choose from in the MBA program. You can choose one or more concentrations to meet your career goals. Some options include:

• Healthcare management
• International business
• Finance
• Analytics

You can also choose to pursue multiple concentrations for a more competitive strategy.  You can combine two or more emphasis areas to give you greater flexibility in the job market. The degree is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. You will work closely with business partners to form strategic alliances and gain insight on upcoming management positions. 

It is an affordable program. It features tuition that starts at just $950 per credit hour. Most students take just 16 months to complete the program. Since courses are offered online, you’ll move as fast or slow as you’d like through the curriculum. 

You will have access to the Lerner’s Career Services. This is a department that focuses on students in the Lerner School of Business. You’ll be able to work with career advisors to attend networking events, virtual workshops, career fairs, speaker series, and more. Plus, you will complete seminars, case studies, and other online learning experiences. 

You will need to have a bachelor’s degree (any academic background is acceptable) from a regionally accredited university. Your bachelor’s degree GPA should be at least 2.8 to qualify for the strategic management MBA program. You must have two years of work experience. GRE and GMAT scores are required. Waivers are often granted based on your work history and your background in mathematics. These strategic management programs are easy and affordable to apply to!

#4. Brenau University

Online MBA with an emphasis in Strategic Thinking and Innovation

Brenau University has the best MBA for strategy for hardworking graduate students. It opened in 1878. It is a private school located in Gainesville, GA. This school has more than 3500 students from 48 states and 17 foreign countries. It’s not the largest school. However, it is one of the most diverse.

The university offers degrees at the associate through the doctoral level. You can also take classes in Augusta, Atlanta, Jacksonville, FL, and of course, online. The online MBA is perfect for graduate students who wish to hone their critical thinking and decision-making skills. It is ideal for those who have some level of work experience. 

Ready to land that promotion? The online MBA at Brenau has just what you need. Eighty-six percent of the graduates of this MBA program say that the degree helped to prepare them for leadership roles in the business world. Most of those surveyed also reporting that it increased their earnings.

You’ll learn from faculty who are experts in their fields. They have real-world expertise in budgeting, business operations, marketing management, and more. You’ll be able to upgrade your resume by taking classes that are convenient. They are offered 100% online to help you land that new job.

You’ll be able to shorten the amount of time it takes you to earn your degree by pursuing the available accelerated track. You’ll only need 12 months to complete your studies! The college of business here is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

There are 13 unique concentrations for you to choose from in this strategic management MBA. All it takes is the addition of four to six courses to help you build a customized degree. It will work well with your unique experience and career goals. Some of the most popular concentrations, in addition to strategic thinking and innovation, in the college of business here include:

• Health care management
• Human resource management
• Financial management
• Project management.

The strategic thinking and innovation concentration is unique. It is available both as part of the MBA as well as part of the master’s in organizational leadership at Brenau. You’ll learn how to solve complex problems in an organization. You’ll also learn the steps necessary to become more proactive in critical thinking and creative decision making.

In this online MBA in strategic management, you’ll take comprehensive courses that will acquaint you with essential business management techniques. Core classes include:

• Strategic Management and Policy
• Foundations of Business Analytics
• Intro to Business Communications
• Budgeting for Managers.

You’ll have access to a dedicated team of coaches and support staff. They will offer expert guidance starting at day one of your program. 

The degree is transfer-designated. This makes it a great option for students who have completed some of their courses at another institution.  Brenau will accept up to 65 of your credits!

This 36-credit hour program requires a 3.0 GPA. You don’t have to have a business background. You should have taken courses such as Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Managerial Finance, and Business Essentials For Managers. 

#5. Hofstra University

Online MBA with a concentration in Strategic Business Management

Hofstra University has another top MBA in strategy. This college of business opened its doors in 1935 as an extension of New York University. It was named Nassau College—Hofstra Memorial of New York University at Hempstead, Long Island. It became independent in 1939. 

It makes sense, therefore, that the school would maintain some prestige. It was an extension of NYU’s well-regarded campus. Today, Hofstra consists of ten schools. It is noted for its connection to presidential conferences, debates, and campaigns. 

This prestige is just part of what makes Hofstra such a great place to pursue an online MBA with a concentration in strategic business management. The other parts? Its academics, student services, and flexibility and convenience for distance learners. You’ll love everything that the online MBA in strategic management has to offer. 

The degree is in the Zarb School of Business. The the top-ranked online MBA program at Hofstra is ranked ninth in the country by Poets and Quants. It’s also top ranked by The Princeton Review, and QS World University Rankings.

This program was the very first distance learning program in Strategic Business Management in New York. Hofstra also offered the first strategic healthcare management program in the state, too. The business school has been AACSB-accredited for more than four decades. Courses are taught by full-time faculty members. They are true experts and leading practitioners in the field.

The school’s unique proximity to the New York metropolitan area will give you some of the best access to the business community. You’ll be able to interact with other professionals through events, career services, and industry liaisons.

It is a 38-credit hour program. It is perfect for working professionals. You will learn the skills you need to succeed in any area of business. You will get the MBA you always wanted. It has a clear focus that is relevant to all areas of business. There are additional concentrations available in:

• Strategic business management
• Finance
• Strategic health care management. 

You will learn in small class sizes. They are structured in a cohort-based format. Your classroom environment will be customized. You will interact with other students and faculty members. The school’s global and industry focus has residency requirements. These allow you to learn from global corporations and business leaders in New York City. Take two years to complete your degree or take a little bit longer. This degree is customizable.

To apply, you will need to submit an online application form. This can be done more or less at your own convenience. The Zarb School of Business has a rolling admissions policy. You’ll also need to supply GMAT or GRE scores. You’ll need official transcripts from all universities you attended and a resume. You’ll also need to supply a personal statement and two letters of recommendation. 

There are no minimum cut-offs for any of the required years of work experience, a high undergraduate GPA, and strong scores on the GMAT or GRE. These testing requirements can be waived if you have progressive work experience.

#6. Villanova University

Online Strategic Management MBA

You’ll find another one of the top MBA in strategic management online MBA degrees at Villanova University. Villanova University is a private Catholic university located in Villanova, PA. Villanova University is named after Saint Thomas of Villanova. It is the oldest Catholic university in the state. It’s also the only Augustinian university in the country. 

Despite these historic roots,  the Villanova University School of Business remains focused on expanding future opportunities for its students. It is classified among “R1: Doctoral Universities-High Research Activity” According to the National Science Foundation, it spent almost $21 million on research in 2018 alone. 

You’ll be able to benefit from these research opportunities as a student in the online strategic management MBA here. The online MBA in strategic management is one of the best. 

Earning an online MBA from the Villanova School of Business will help you learn more about the fundamentals of business. It will also help you learn about how technology has revolutionized the way our world conducts business. It’s a top-ranked degree. Classes are taught by the same expert faculty who teach on campus. However, they’re delivered in a more flexible, convenient format. 

The strategic management emphasis area is not the only specialization pathway you can pursue. You can also expand your leadership opportunities by choosing from specializations in:

• Analytics
• Marketing
• Finance
• International Business

You will take core classes such as:

• Analyzing and Leveraging Data
• Strategic Marketing Management
• Team Leadership and Group Dynamics.

Forty-eight credit hours are required. Most students finish their classes in just two years. You can choose from multiple capstone options. These include a global experience or a social enterprise consulting practicum. 

This degree (including all of its available specializations) is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. It is also ranked as one of the best schools in the country for veterans by U.S. News & World Report. 

The programs at Villanova are designed for professionals, by professionals. You’ll enjoy a personalized education in an interactive online format. Faculty have extensive industry knowledge and will help you build essential leadership skills. You can engage in live networking with faculty and peers in an online setting. You can attend campus for weekend residency experiences. 

The school has a vast alumni network that spans the globe. You’ll participate in optional international immersion experiences in emerging economies. You will cultivate relationships with your peers. You’ll be able to experience the same faculty and curriculum that you would have access to on-campus. Class sizes are small in both settings. The average online section contains just 20 students. 

To apply for admission to the online strategic management MBA at Villanova, you will need to complete an online application. Provide official transcripts with your academic credentials from a bachelor’s degree. Two letters of recommendation, a resume, and two separate personal statement essays are also required. You may be asked to participate in an interview. You will also need to submit test scores. 

#7. University of Pittsburgh

Blended MBA with a focus area in Strategy

Next up are the strategy MBA programs in business administration at the University of Pittsburgh. This school opened as the Pittsburgh Academy by Hugh Henry Brackenridge in 1787. The University of Pittsburgh is a state-related public research college. It opened in response to a need for a proper university in the city as the country forged westward. Today, the school contains 17 undergraduate and graduate schools and colleges. It is home to about 29,000 students.

There is a main campus in urban Pittsburgh. The University of Pittsburgh also has undergraduate branch campuses in Bradford, Johnstown, Titusville, and Greensburg, PA. Of course, you can always take classes online, too! The online MBA in strategic management is perfect for distance learners. 

The part-time MBA is 100% online with the Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business at the University of Pittsburgh. It is designed for working professionals. It can be completed online or with the addition of on-campus courses. You’ll be able to take classes at the pace that’s right for you. You can take up to nine credits at a time. You will graduate in just one or two years. 

The curriculum of this program offers the opportunity for individualized and accelerated learning. You’ll learn more about the links between business disciplines as well as with other fields and industries. You’ll gain the perspective you need to be a successful leader. You’ll take integrative coursework in data programming fundamentals, research, business communications, and more. 

Your opportunities to learn will extend far outside of the classroom. This will make you a more versatile and well-rounded leader. You’ll participate in co-curricular opportunities like community-based projects, case competitions, and professional development programming. These will reinforce the core concepts you’ve already learned.

There are even global learning opportunities! You can study abroad and learn from some of the best minds in business. You will solve real-world challenges and expand your cultural awareness. The University of Pittsburgh offers a global research practicum, global issues workshops, and consulting field projects.

The strategy concentration is just one potential pathway in the MBA at the University of Pittsburgh. You can also pursue a Katz Credential. This will highlight your expertise and give you experiential learning in a certain business area. Online students will be able to work with business partners in these MBA programs. This is done through specialized coursework and projects. Some popular credentials include:

• Technology management
• Strategic leadership
• Global business
• Corporate strategy
• Marketing management
• Operations
• Managerial economics
• Financial management
• International business culture

You’ll have some of the best access to career and networking services in the business. You can participate in networking events both on-campus, in the famed Mervis Hall, or online. You can also engage in the Executives in Residence program. This will allow you to work with a dedicated group of former executives. They want nothing more than to help you grow as a professional. 

To apply for admission to the MBA at the Katz Graduate School of Business, you will need to submit an online application and provide two recommendations. You will also need essay responses, and a current resume. You will also need to have completed a four-year undergraduate degree and provide official college transcripts from your bachelor’s degree. A degree in business is not required. You should also plan on submitting official test scores. You’ll also need an application fee. 

#8. Ottawa University

Online MBA with a concentration in Strategic Innovation

 The MBA strategic management online degree at Ottawa University is one of the best business administration degrees in the nation. Ottawa University is a private Baptist university located in Ottawa, KS. Ottawa University has additional campuses in places like Surprise, AZ. There are other numerous locations around the country. The Ottawa campus is small. It is home to 750 students. Yet you’ll find thousands of students who choose to take advantage of Ottawa University’s extensive online offerings.

The MBA is offered by the Angell Snyder School of Business. It is one of the country’s best master in business administration with a strategic management concentration. The online Master of Business Administration at Ottawa University will provide you with high-quality preparation in business. Courses integrate professional ethics, core business fundamentals, and your personal values. It offers maximum flexibility. Courses are offered both online as well as in the evening during a classroom setting.

The Master of Business Administration with a strategic management concentration will qualify you for jobs in the public sector, the private sector, and in academics. In the online MBA in strategic management, you’ll learn the problem-solving skills you need to impact your organization’s outlook . You will also enjoy the maximum flexibility you need to help you juggle school along with your already-busy life. You will take classes in eight-week terms. There are six available terms per year. You study at your leisure. Take just one class per term or attempt a full course load. The choice is yours!

You’ll learn how to focus on strategic tasks and engage in comprehensive strategic analysis and planning. It consists of 36 credit hours of study. There are eight required core courses. There are four courses designed just for learners in the Strategic Innovation MBA track. 

These courses include:

• Managing in a Global Environment
• Social, Cultural, Legal, and Political Influences in Business
• Corporate Strategies
• The Creative Organization.

In this strategic management MBA program, you’ll also take classes in things like business strategy and managing in the global environment. You’ll gain executive leadership skills in this strategic management program, too. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. This is the highest designation for business programs in the world. 

The MBA in strategic innovation is not the only business program offered by Ottawa University. Far from it, in fact. The master’s degree has additional concentrations in:

• Accounting
• Finance
• Business data analytics
• Population health/health care

There are also bachelor’s degrees in these fields. There is a Master of Arts in leadership, a Master of Arts in human resources, and much, much more.

The courses in the MBA in strategic innovation will prepare you to become a leader within your current company. It will also prepare you to embark on new leadership opportunities. The average starting salary for MBA graduates was $115,000 in 2019. It’s tough to find a degree with a better return on investment than this one!

Ready to apply? You will need to supply a completed application for admission. You’ll also need an application fee. You also need to provide official transcripts. Not to worry if you’ve attended another graduate school in the past. You can transfer in up to 80 hours toward a 124-hour degree.

#9. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 

Online MBA with a concentration in Strategy and Consulting

The online MBA in strategic management at UNC is another one of the best business administration degrees. This school is the flagship university of the University of North Carolina system. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is considered a Public Ivy. This means that the school offers the sweet duality of low tuition along with a reputation for an academic experience that is equivalent to that which you would receive at an Ivy League University!

The school opened its doors in 1785. It’s the oldest university in the state of North Carolina. Yet it is  not stuck in the past but rather anchored in the future. Faculty and staff seek out ways to provide new opportunities for students. There are more than 70 courses of study among 13 separate professional schools and colleges.

The online MBA at UNC is known as the “no-compromise MBA.” You won’t have to give up anything, not your personal and professional obligations or the quality of your degree, in order to learn in this program. 

It’s ranked as the number one best online MBA by U.S. News & World Report. The UNC Kenan-Flager School of Business is ranked in the top 20 of all business schools in the country, too. Even The Princeton Review agrees. This program is ranked the second-best in the country!

You’ll develop a profound approach to leadership that will amplify your strengths, reflect your values, and position you for success. It’s a recognized and well-established program. It includes challenging coursework. You’ll have access to a large global network of more than 42,000 alumni. 

The program has multiple start dates each year. These are in January, April, July, and October. You’ll join a small cohort of fellow students when you begin your classes. This will allow you to learn from a diverse group of peers as you complete group projects and other assignments.

The curriculum is designed and facilitated by the school’s world-class teaching and research faculty. Core classes cover everything you need to know about strategic management and other business administration fields. For example, you’ll take classes in executive leadership, business strategy, and human resources in this strategic management degree. You can pursue other concentrations besides strategy and consulting.

Business school concentration options include:

• Marketing
• Entrepreneurship
• Finance
• Data analytics and decision making.

Most of your classes will be completed online. But you’ll be able to participate in a number of action-based programs so that you can expand your cross-cultural awareness. Class sizes are small and close-knit. You’ll be able to travel to major cities all over the world for weekend-long learning intensives, too. You can meet peers and professors face-to-face and take part in local activities.

Ready to apply? At the UNC Kenan-Flagler School of Business, the process is seamless. You’ll need to submit test scores along with your official transcripts. The average student here has about four and a half years of work experience. They have an average GPA of 3.4. But you don’t need to meet a cookie-cutter mold in order to apply. In fact, more than half of all students in this program don’t have a background in business! Financial aid is available to most MBA in strategic management students at this business school.

#10. Northcentral University

Online Strategic Management MBA

Next, consider the online MBA strategic management degree at Northcentral. This school is a private university headquartered in San Diego, CA. Northcentral University is all about the online learner. You’ll find all kinds of programs in fields like:

• education
• marriage and family therapy
• psychology
• business

There are plenty of online MBA programs for aspiring business administration professionals here.

It was established in 1996. It is one of the newest business school colleges out there. Yet you’ll find a top strategic management program here! It is one of the best for online learners. It consists of six schools:

• the School of Law
• the School of Technology
• the School of Education
• the School of Health Sciences
• the School of Social and Behavioral Science
• the School of Business.

This school offers degrees at the baccalaureate, graduate, and post-master’s levels. 

There is no GRE or GMAT required for admission. It is one of the best for working professionals. You’ll learn how to evaluate the health of an organization. You’ll also learn how to provide effective business solutions that both address and anticipate global trends. You’ll gain the skills you need to drive innovation. You’ll gain the leadership chops you need to be successful.

The program can be completed on an accelerated timeline. This will allow you to graduate in several months instead of several years. It’s affordable. There are multiple scholarships available for new students. The degree is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. This is an association that accredits business programs across the globe on more than 1000 campuses. Most online MBA programs accredited by this body also offer financial aid.

You will take a total of ten courses or 30 credit hours. Most students complete their classes in less than a year and a half. Classes start every week. You don’t have to wait around in order to begin your degree. You can take up to five years to complete your master’s degree. Most students will take much less time than that. 

Everything at Northcentral can be done at your own pace. You don’t have to attend scheduled lecture hours or complete group assignments. You can schedule everything around your professional and personal obligations. You’ll be mentored by experts in the field during all of your classes. Since everything is done on your own in this smart strategic management MBA program, you’ll benefit from one-on-one engagement without having to fight for attention in a classroom. 

The strategic management pathway is not your only specialization option at this business school, either. You can also choose from business administration options in:

• General business administration
• Homeland security
• Information technology
• Criminal justice

 In most cases, you’ll take core classes such as:

• Managing People and Teams
• Operations Management
• Innovation and Marketing
• Strategic Management.

Unique specialization courses include:

• Global Product Management
• Advanced Digital Marketing
• Strategic Marketing Management. 

Northcentral has a very liberal admissions process for the business administration strategic management programs. It allows for direct entry if you have a bachelor’s degree in business. This must be from a regionally or nationally accredited institution. If you don’t have a bachelor’s degree in business or executive leadership, you can complete the online application. You will receive an academic evaluation with your official college transcripts. You must also take one introductory course before taking the rest of your professional MBA courses. 

OTHER NOTABLE MBA IN STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS

#11. Winthrop University

Location: Rock Hill, SC

Degree: Online Professional MBA with a Strategic Leadership Concentration

Net Price: $15,666

Website          

#12. Chatham University

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

Degree: Online Professional MBA with a concentration in Entrepreneurial Leadership and Strategy

Net Price: $17,744

Website

#13. New England College

Location: Henniker, NH

Degree: Online Professional MBA in Strategic Leadership degree 

Net Price: $13,560

Website            

#14. Amberton University

Location: Garland, TX

Degree: Online Professional MBA in Strategic Leadership MBA degree

Net Price: $6,390

Website

#15. Messiah University

Location: Mechanicsburg, PA

Degree: Online Professional MBA with a concentration in Strategic Leadership 

Net Price: $12,060

Website 

#16. John F. Kennedy University

Location: Pleasant Hill, CA

Degree: Strategic Management MBA Online

Net Price: $8,500

Website     

#17. Niagara University

Location: Niagara University, NY

Degree: Online MBA in Strategic Management

Net Price: $14,308

Website 

#18. Russell Sage College

Location: Troy, NY

Degree: Online MBA – Strategy

Net Price: $14,308

Website      

#19. Davenport University

Location: Grand Rapids, MI

Degree: Online MBA in Strategic Management

Net Price: $15,126

Website

#20. University of the Southwest

Location: Hobbs, NM

Degree: Online MBA with a specialization in Strategic Management 

Net Price: $14,376

Website           

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE 50 MOST POPULAR ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREES and WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A MASTER OF ARTS (MA) AND A MASTERS OF SCIENCE (MS) DEGREE?

Are you ready to unleash your full potential? 

If so—and if you have strong leadership skills and a knack for computers—you may want to consider earning an online MBA in information systems. 

Technology continues to develop and it’s not slowing down any time soon. As this field continues to grow, positions in information systems will also expand accordingly. Earning an online MBA information systems degree will provide you with the technical skills you need to be technologically savvy along with the management skills you’ll need to be a proficient leader. 

Businesses are constantly on the lookout for professionals who can lead a team to success. And if you’re thinking about earning a degree but aren’t sure that your lifestyle has the flexibility for you to do so in the traditional sense, an online degree is the way to go. 

Online learning, also known as remote education or distance learning, has grown tremendously in popularity. Part of this is because online courses are often more accessible and convenient, providing busy students with the flexibility they need to succeed.

Online degrees are often more affordable, too. While you will need to have access to a personal computer and a reliable internet connection, you can often take classes on a device as simplistic as your own smartphone. Not only that, but many online programs have limited requirements in terms of textbooks that you need to purchase.

Of course, there’s the most obvious aspect when it comes to the more affordable nature of online learning. Your tuition and fees are often lower since operating expenses for the course are lower, and you won’t have to worry about paying for things like room and board, either. Plus, since online learners won’t be traveling back and forth to campus, you won’t have to worry about transportation costs. 

There’s no reason not to consider earning an online MBA in information systems. You’ll benefit from online courses that challenge you to do your best each and every day. You’ll learn among some of the best and brightest minds in information systems in the entire country. 

Information systems graduates will gain:

• business acumen
• technical knowledge and technical skills
• learn customer relationships

Business degrees also sharpen leadership skills.

Consider a career as an information systems manager and take a look at the MBA programs.

See Also:20 Best Affordable Master’s in Information Assurance

Common Application and Admission Questions

There are hundreds—if not thousands—of business schools that offer online MBA programs. So how do you choose the right one for you? A common pitfall that many students find themselves in is the desire to apply to dozens of programs during the admissions process.

It might be tempting to add multiple schools to your list. You should avoid this urge and instead just apply to three or four schools at best. This will give you plenty of options in case you are not accepted by your first-choice school, yet won’t become costly as application fees pile up.

So how do you decide which ones to include? 

First, make sure you meet the minimum requirements to enroll in the MBA in information systems degree. Most business schools include information on application requirements on their websites. If you aren’t sure how to find it or realize that you have any lingering questions, you can always touch base with the admissions office at your school of choice. 

Most schools require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree. It doesn’t always have to be in a business- or information systems-related field. You might have to meet a minimum GPA requirement, usually a 3.0 or a 3.5 on a 4.0 scale. This can vary. In some cases, you may also have to submit scores from the GMAT or the GRE. These are two exams that are generally required for business school admission.

Sometimes, if you have taken a certain number of courses in business, you may qualify for a GMAT or GRE examination waiver. It’s worth looking into whether your university offers this so that you can save time, money, and stress by not having to sit for these exams. 

There are other credentials that a school may ask for when determining your eligibility for admission. For example, you may be asked to have work experience. This might be in any field, or in business or information systems specifically. You will often be asked to prove this with letters of recommendation, a resume, or a personal statement. An interview is occasionally required, too. 

So you qualify for admission—that’s great! Now what? 

You’ll need to figure out which schools are best for you before finding the best MBA programs. Of course, you’ll want to choose the university and the business administration degree that best meshes with your unique personality, preferences, and career goals. Cross schools off the list that don’t fit with your budget or schedule.

Then, take a closer look at each MBA program. Accreditation is key. Regardless of your major, your college should always be at least regionally accredited. Without this accreditation, it’s impossible to determine whether the faculty and curricula at a school are up to snuff. 

Not only that, but if you attend a school that is not accredited, you run the risk of not qualifying for financial aid. You also might not be able to transfer credits to another university later, if you choose to do so.

In some cases, you may notice that your school is accredited by an additional programmatic accreditor. For business schools, one of the most important to look for is the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. 

See Also: 50 Best Online Masters in Cybersecurity Degree Programs

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships for Business Degrees?

The cost of an MBA program can be staggering. The return on investment is high when you earn one of these in-demand degrees. You probably aren’t going to be able to finance the high tuition for your master’s degree with the change you scrounge up from beneath your couch cushions.

As a result, it’s important that you consider sources of financial aid and scholarships before you begin to apply for an MBA information systems online degree. Even if you’re earning six figures after you graduate, it doesn’t make sense to take out hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of student loan debt in order to earn such a salary. 

There are several ways you can lower the cost of an MBA in information systems before you even register for a single class.

For one, consider online programs with a lower overall cost. If you’ve stumbled upon this article, you’re already on the right track. Online MBA programs are almost always more affordable than their on-campus counterparts (though there are, certainly, some exceptions). Tuition rates are not only usually the same or lower than what you’d pay on campus, but you also don’t have to worry about costs associated with residency trips, housing, or transportation, either.

Not only that, but the inherent flexibility of an online degree means you can take classes when it’s most convenient for you toward your MBA in information systems. You can complete your courses all at once, studying full-time, or you can take advantage of the remote learning format and just take classes when it’s easiest and most affordable for you.

Make sure you complete the FAFSA, or the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, too. You will need to complete this every year you attend college, so even if you filled out this form as an undergraduate student, it pays to do it again. You’ll input information about your finances, such as your income and any assets you hold, to determine your eligibility for state and federal financial aid. 

Your university will likely use this information to determine your eligibility for funding, too. In addition to grants and loans, the FAFSA will determine whether you might qualify for things like scholarships, work-study, and other institutional aid.

Even if you don’t qualify for any need-based federal financial aid, don’t forget that there are other options you can pursue. Many schools offer merit-based awards as well as graduate assistantships. Earning a graduate assistantship is a great way to finance your MBA in information systems degree because you’ll graduate not only with less student loan debt but also a wealth of experience to draw from. 

Long story short? Take every opportunity you can get—you’ll likely find that your degree nearly pays for itself!

How Much Can I Make With an MBA in Information Systems? 

You will have several career options that you can pursue after you earn an online MBA information systems degree. Information systems MBA career opportunities include:

• information systems manger
• project management
• computer hardware engineer
• information security analyst

While all are financially lucrative and will be incredibly rewarding to you personally and professionally, the average salaries among them do vary a bit. 

One of the most popular roles you might pursue with an information system MBA online is that as a computer and information systems manager, or IT manager. In this kind of job, you’ll work to plan and coordinate all computer-related activities in an organization. Because you’ll be in charge of many other individuals, the potential for you to earn a high salary is excellent. Information systems managers can expect to earn an average salary around $159,010 per year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Another career you might pursue is that as a computer hardware engineer. You’ll work to research, develop, design, and test computer systems and components to encourage technological advances. As a computer hardware engineer, you can expect to earn an average salary around $128,170 per year, according to 2021 numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

You could also work as a computer network architect. In this job, you’ll build and develop data communications networks. The average salary is $120,520 per year. Another potential job is as an information security analyst. In this job, you’ll develop and implement key security measures to protect an organization’s computer systems and networks. Again, there’s decent average salary potential here—around $102,600, in fact. 

Take advantage of your information systems MBA classes. Study hard and glean as much as you can from the coursework. This way, you’ll know you are getting your money’s worth.

While you’re enrolled, you’ll take all of the same core courses that are required in an MBA information systems curriculum. You’ll also take courses in the information systems concentration. Some of the most common include:

• Data Management and Design
• Data Communications and Networking
• Analysis, Modeling, and Design
• Risk Management

However, you can improve your opportunities to make a high salary after graduation by taking steps outside of the classroom, too. Acquiring the necessary credentials is the first step to a lucrative career, but you should also go above and beyond to make an impact. 

Connect with as many fellow students, faculty members, alumni, and industry partners as you can. Reach out to learn more and make a connection. Join extracurricular organizations, like the American Management Association, and take advantage of its online training. Intern for local businesses as you work on your classes or even volunteer your services at an organization. Even if you aren’t paid for your work, these kinds of experiences are invaluable in helping you build your resume. 

Earning an MBA in information systems is one of the best things you can do to enhance your salary. However, there are plenty of other steps you can take to improve your average salary and job prospects. Consider earning an additional certification to give yourself an edge while you’re looking for a job. Some of the best certifications are:

• Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control
• Project Management Professional
• Certified Information Systems Auditor 

What Are the Best MBA in Information Systems Degrees?

We know that you have educational goals that you’re itching to pursue, but you may not know where to start. The editors of Master’s Programs Guide utilize a unique ranking methodology based on the following five aspects:

25% Overall Degree Affordability: Average cost of undergraduate and graduate tuition per school

25% Graduation Rate: Number of students who start at the university and actually finish there

20% Earnings Potential: Average mid-career salary of school alumni

20% Selectivity: The number of students who apply versus the number who actually get accepted

10% Online Graduate Offerings: The number of programs offered online in each department

At Master’s Programs Guide, we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one, and we want to help you reach your goals.

#1. New Jersey Institute of Technology

Online MBA Program in Management Information Systems

A uniquely designed program, the management information systems MBA at New Jersey Institute of Technology is perfect for students who wish to pursue leadership roles as chief information officers. It is well-ranked among numerous organizations. In fact, U.S. News & World Report regards this program as one of the best online MBAs. New Jersey Institute of Technology is also ranked as one of the top public schools and best national universities, too.

The MBA information systems management is offered by the Martin Tuchman School of Management. This school offers a number of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in management and similar fields. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to build your skills both in and out of the classroom, with extracurriculars and other hands-on opportunities including professional development services, internships, and more.

The Tuchman School of Management even has a partnership with IBM!

Another remarkable feature of this program? It is incredibly affordable. MBA students will pay right around $1,073 per credit hour as you take classes in the School of Management. The degree is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and most courses are offered in a fully asynchronous format—meaning you can study at the times that are most convenient for you. 

Management information systems is not the only concentration for you to choose from, but it’s one of the most popular. Other available specializations include marketing and finance. With the management information systems concentration, you’ll take courses that cover fundamental concepts like:

• international business
• decision analysis
• information systems
• managerial economics

Course titles include:

• Knowledge Management
• Decision Support Systems for Managers
• Information Systems Strategy

You will also complete a capstone project, which will bring together your core and specialization coursework for a truly comprehensive degree. Your studies will prepare you to pursue a variety of advanced careers, including:

• information systems manager
• computer programmer
• chief executive 

Most students will take around two to three years to complete their degrees. You can choose to start courses in the fall, spring, or summer months. You’ll need a minimum GPA of 2.8 in order to qualify for admission. You will also need a letter of recommendation, GMAT or GRE scores, and official transcripts. 

When you start your classes, you will be placed into a cohort so that you can learn just as much from your peers as you do from your instructors. In fact, the core of this program is built upon collaboration and professional networking. It’s perfect for both current and aspiring managers and is inherently interdisciplinary. 

You’ll build substantial problem-solving and decision-making skills as you move through five major thematic management areas, like:

• managing in real-time
• managing global hyper-competition
• managing uncertainty and change

#2. University of Colorado – Denver

MBA Program – With a Concentration in Management Information Systems

Are you sick of all the one-size-fits-all programs out there? If you choose to study at the University of Colorado Denver, you can ditch that idea and pursue a program that has more specialization options than any other part-time or full-time MBA program in the entire state of Colorado.

Here, you can tailor your degree to match your lifestyle and your career goals. You can take classes either entirely in the classroom or fully online. There are fifteen specializations you can choose from in this degree. It is ranked the second-best part-time public MBA program in the state by U.S. News & World Report. 

At the business school at the University of Colorado, MBA students will find a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. These programs cover a wide range of topics in core areas of business study, such as:

• business administration
• marketing
• finance
• information systems

The business school has professional partnerships with a wide range of organizations, including many well-known companies and government agencies. You’ll be able to pursue all kinds of internships, scholarships, and study abroad opportunities as a result. Courses blend:

• theory
• class discussions
• computer simulation
• group projects
• even case studies

This will help you build a comprehensive knowledge base in management information systems. 

With a prime location in downtown Denver, you’ll have unparalleled access to business leaders and hands-on experiences. With career and professional development opportunities offered every week through panel events, guest speakers, career fairs, internships, and more, you’ll love the networking outlets that are built right into this program. In fact, the university has connections to more than 300 business partners and a special Business Career Connections team that is specifically dedicated to MBA students. 

Forty-eight credit hours are required for MBA information system management degree completion. You’ll take major specialization courses like:

• IT Project Management
• Internet and Mobile Technologies
• Business Process Management
• Analysis, Modeling, and Design

In addition to the core required courses, you’ll be able to take 12 hours of electives with more than 100 different courses available to meet this requirement. 

A nationally accredited program, it’s also well-regarded by numerous ranking publications, as previously mentioned.  For instance, U.S. News & World Report ranks the school as one of the Best National Universities as well as a Top Public School and a Best College for Veterans.

One of the best parts about earning a degree at the University of Colorado is the school’s affordability. Not only will you pay less than $8,000 a semester, on average, in tuition and fees, but you’ll be able to take your courses entirely online. 

There are numerous scholarships available, too, including a recurring scholarship opportunity for professional MBA applicants. There’s a significant return on investment here, too, with graduates earning an average base salary of $79,000 per year. The University of Colorado has a solid reputation, with employers claiming this school first for candidates due to its reputation for producing graduates who have the skills they need to be immediately work-ready—and successful for the long term, too.

#3. University of Maryland

MBA Program with Concentrations in Information Systems and Business Analytics

The University of Maryland is just one of twelve colleges in the broad state university system. Here, the Robert H. Smith School of Business offers learners a variety of opportunities to expand their business education at the undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels. The school of business dates back nearly 100 years, having offered quality business education for many years and counting.

Located in College Park, MD, the University of Maryland offers an online MBA that has a specialization in information systems and business analytics. You’ll be able to engage fully in your degree when you sign up for this program. You’ll be able to participate in opportunities like residences, action-learning projects, and even an optional global business immersion experience that will take you abroad to learn.

You’ll also be able to engage with a variety of research centers, including:

• Center for Leadership, Innovation, and Change
• Center for Digital Innovation, Technology, and Strategy

As you move through your courses, you’ll gain a foundational knowledge of core business concepts along with field-specific coursework that enables you to work directly in a business environment. 

Your courses will cover key topics like:

• business in the global marketplace
• data analytics
• organizational management

Core classes include:

• Social Media and Web Analytics
• Managing Digital Businesses Platforms
• Data Analytics

You’ll complete two residencies, including a final capstone project, too.

Want to earn your degree quickly? If so, you won’t find a better program than the MBA at the University of Maryland. As a full-time student, you can complete your studies in just nine months. You’ll study and take all of your courses under the auspices of the aforementioned Robert H. Smith School of Business, a nationally-ranked school that is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International.

There are multiple concentrations available within this program, including those in information systems and business analytics. You can take classes fully online in either a synchronous or asynchronous fashion. Fifty-four credit hours are required for completion—and if you don’t want to pursue the fast-paced nature of a full-time program of study, you can always opt for part-time study, too. 

You’ll take classes in weekly live online class sessions or you can take classes on your own terms, covering topics like:

• social media and web analytics
• data mining and predictive analysis
• managing digital business and platforms

The curriculum also includes the aforementioned optional global study or international business class along with two residencies. 

Choose to study part-time, and you can take up to 24 months to complete your degree. There are start dates in the fall, spring, and summer, too, so you can begin your courses whenever it’s most convenient for you. Not sold on the information systems and business analytics concentration? Don’t worry. The University of Maryland MBA also has concentrations in:

• accounting
• marketing
• finance
• supply chain management

To apply, you’ll need to have a minimum GPA of 2.8 along with two years of work experience. Tuition is affordable, starting around $1,617 per credit hour.

With a high graduation rate and an accelerated format, the quality and value of this program simply cannot be overlooked.

#4. Florida State University

MBA Program – With a Concentration in Management Information Systems

The college of business at Florida State University was founded in 1950. It remains one of the best colleges of its kind in the entire nation. It has a curriculum that’s built on years of experience and traditio. This program prepares students for professional careers through a curriculum of service, experience, and foundational training.

The management information systems MBA at Florida State University features a curriculum that was designed with feedback and input from key information technology and management information systems professionals. You’ll learn some of the best and most in-demand industry strategies as you take classes taught by some of the best and brightest minds in the field. 

You’ll find that your analytical, managerial, and technical skills are dramatically improved as a result of completing this program. Offered by Florida State’s College of Business, this degree is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and consists of 39 total credit hours. 

The degree emphasizes the development of analytical, technical, and managerial skills. You’ll become a well-rounded professional as you combine your core MBA coursework with a personalized selection of more specialized classes in management information systems. You’ll take classes in key topics like:

• leadership models
• project management
• organizational issues
• database management
• systems analysis and design

Core specialization coursework includes:

• Business Intelligence
• Project Management
• Corporate Information Security

You’ll find that this program provides you with the skills and professional network that you need to be successful in today’s fast-paced world of business. You’ll enjoy courses that are self-paced and just about as flexible as can be. It’s one of the best programs for active-duty military members and veterans, too, according to the U.S. News & World Report. 

If you’re not sold on an online program simply because you aren’t sure how the out-of-classroom experience will compare to a more traditional on-campus program, don’t worry. With this degree, you’ll still be able to participate in a number of student organizations, use research centers and outreach programs (including the Institute for Applied Business Research), and even complete internships.

With courses available entirely online, this degree can be completed on either a full- or part-time basis. There are start dates in the spring, summer, and fall for maximum convenience, with most students taking around two to three years to complete their degrees. It’s available in many formats such as:

• accelerated
• full-time
• evening
• part-time
• online

There are also joint degrees you can choose from, with options including the JD/MBA, MSW/MBA, and real estate combinations. 

As a public school, Florida State University offers incredibly affordable tuition that starts at just $780 per credit hour for in-state students.

Admission to this program is highly competitive. You’ll have to submit a number of materials to showcase your work readiness. For example, you’ll need to have several years of work experience along with a solid undergraduate background. The GMAT and letters of recommendation are also required. 

#5. Southern New Hampshire University

MBA With an Information Technology Management Emphasis

Founded in 1932 as the New Hampshire School of Accounting and Secretarial Science, Southern New Hampshire University is a private nonprofit university that is constantly evolving and adapting to meet the needs of the growing workforce.

It’s known as one of the best schools for online learners, using an open enrollment policy that requires just a high school diploma or GED. It’s home to more than 80,000 online students with nearly 3,000 faculty members. 

Despite its large size, this school offers one of the best and most individualized MBA degrees around. There are 20 different career-focused concentrations, including:

• accounting
• engineering management
• finance
• human resources
• international business
• entrepreneurship
• information technology management

The online MBA in information technology management concentration consists of three courses, each of which provides in-depth coverage of the topic. Your specialization courses will prepare you for a high-level career in:

• digital commerce
• telecommunications
• e-business
• IT management

You’ll take core classes like:

• Advanced Information Technology
• Management of Information Technology
• Enterprise Resource Planning

The courses in this online MBA information technology degree build upon each other. You will graduate with the ability to craft and execute a full-fledged business plan. You’ll be able to select real-world projects based on your own personal or professional experiences. You’ll acquire the skills and knowledge base you need to achieve your own unique career goals. You’ll be supported every step of the way by faculty who care deeply about your success. 

Best yet, this MBA program in information technology has no set class meeting times so you can learn on your schedule and access online course materials whenever you need them. The school has some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country, along with financial aid for students who qualify. Tuition starts at just $627 per credit hour with deep discounts for active duty and veteran military members.

Not only that, but you can transfer in up to 12 graduate credits from your previous institution. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. It can be completed in as few as 15 months. 

With more than 100,000 graduates across the nation, Southern New Hampshire University makes it easy for you to get a jumpstart on your career search. With more than 17,000 MBA graduates alone, the school has an extensive alumni network. It has a broad business networking group. You can also seek out college mentorship opportunities and learn from other students who have gone before you (nearly 97% of whom say they would recommend this school to other students).

To apply, you’ll need to do little more than complete the online application and supply copies of your college transcripts. No GRE or GMAT is required and you can apply at any time to receive a decision in just days instead of months. 

#6. University of Arizona

MBA in Information Systems

Founded in 1913, the Eller College of Management at the University of Arizona has grown to become one of the most prominent schools of business in the entire country. Today, the school offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, professional, and non-degree programs. In fact, the school has more than 6,000 students enrolled. 

You’ll find a diverse body of peers in your courses here. You’ll be able to take classes that are highly interdisciplinary as you study in disciplines that span eight departments, such as:

• business communication
• marketing
• management and organizations

You’ll also have access to numerous research and outreach centers, including the Center for the Management of Information. You’ll build your business administration skills as well as your knowledge in core areas of management information systems. Core courses include:

• Operations Management
• Information Security
• Data Management Systems
• Leadership in Organizations

The MBA in information systems at the University of Arizona comes with multiple concentrations, including those in:

• security and information assurance
• enterprise system management
• business intelligence

You’ll be able to leverage your position as an IT professional to make an impact in the business world. It’s the perfect program for aspiring:

• business consultants
• strategists
• chief information officers

You’ll complete 45 credit hours before graduation. All courses are offered in short, effective eight-week chunks. The online degree’s curriculum is identical to the one taught on-campus in the evening and full-time MBA. Courses are offered in convenient eight-week sessions so you can take as little as 14 months or as many as four years to complete your studies. 

You don’t have to take our word for it, either. With placements on countless national rankings, this degree is clearly one of the best. The University of Arizona MBA is ranked as one of the Best Online MBA programs overall as well as one of the Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans by U.S. News & World Report. It’s also a nationally-ranked public online MBA program by Poets & Quants. 

This degree is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. You can take courses on a full- or part-time basis. Whichever option you choose, you’ll be able to access all of your course materials and interact with faculty 24/7. Most students take around two years to complete their degrees. There are multiple start dates per year, including two in the fall, two in the spring, and two in the summer. 

To apply, you must hold an undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. You can apply during one of six admissions cycles per year (the degree has six start dates, with each deadline about one month before each start date). When you apply, you will need to submit a completed application form and an $85 application fee. A comprehensive essay, professional resume, and letter of recommendation are required, as are copies of official transcripts and GMAT or GRE scores. 

#7. Oklahoma State University

MBA with  Concentration Information Assurance

Located in Stillwater, OK, Oklahoma State University offers one of the best MBA in information systems degrees. The concentration is formally known as an information assurance specialization. The degree is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and is available entirely online. 

The curriculum of this program is delivered as a collaboration between the Spears School of Business and the Watson Graduate School of Management. The graduate school is home to a number of interdisciplinary programs, including:

• the MBA
• the master’s in business analytics and data science

The collaborative nature of the program makes it possible for you to graduate with a degree that truly opens doors for you—both personally and professionally. 

As one of the highest-ranked and most affordable accredited programs in the nation, it is uniquely designed for full-time working professionals. All courses are taught by the same talented faculty who teach on-campus in the Spears School of Business. Courses are available 24/7 and designed with virtual activity, multimedia content, and traditional lectures to help you collaborate with your fellow peers. 

To be eligible for admission, you must hold an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university. You must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale to apply. You will also need to submit competitive GRE or GMAT test scores, three letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. There are two start dates each year. 

Thirty-three credit hours are required for degree completion. You can choose to take classes on either a full- or part-time basis. Most students take around three or four years to complete their degrees when they take classes part-time. If you choose to study full-time, you can finish your degree in just under a year. 

Many students choose to take classes part-time. This is one of the most popular degree programs for students who are already employed. In fact, 89% of students are already employed when they enroll. All online classes are recorded and archived so that you can log on and work whenever it’s most convenient for you. 

With no residency requirements, the degree can be completed entirely online. There’s even a mentoring program that can be completed from a distance, making it easy for you not only to complete your classes but also to gain professional connections (and a professional edge!) as you work on your degree. 

Tuition is incredibly affordable, particularly for in-state students. They’ll pay just around $230 per credit hour. In addition to these low tuition rates, the school offers numerous scholarships and assistantships through the Watson Graduate School of Management. The degree is ranked as one of the Best Online MBA Programs overall as well as one of the Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans by U.S. News & World Report. 

Although these rankings are due in part to the superior academic quality and flexible nature of the program (along with its affordability), these rankings are also a testament to the impressive career outcomes of this degree. The graduate programs at the Watson Graduate School have a job placement rate of more than 98% for MBA graduates. You can’t get any better than that!

#8. Carnegie Mellon University

Master of Business Administration with an Emphasis in Business Technologies

Founded in 1900 by entrepreneur Andrew Carnegie himself, Carnegie Mellon University is a private research university located in Pittsburgh, PA. The university is home to seven different colleges and independent schools, many of which offer interdisciplinary programs. 

The Tepper School of Business is one such school, offering a top-ranked part-time online and hybrid MBA program. With this degree, you’ll have the convenience of learning from anywhere you see fit, along with in-person learning experiences that will help you make the most of your education.

The degree program has an unparalleled emphasis on:

• strategic decision making
• leadership development
• analytics

You’ll be prepared for a successful career as a leader in information technology. However, you’ll also enjoy the ultimate level of flexibility as you participate in live interactive classes online just two evenings per week. 

This online program is identical to the one taught on campus. You don’t have to worry about compromising the quality of your degree for the convenience of studying wherever you see fit. Nor do you need to give up the community and connections you would gain from an in-person education. With this degree, you’ll spend time with your classmates and faculty members during engaging on-campus “Access Weekends”.

These Access Weekends take place six times each year and are held in various locations around the country. You’ll be able to meet the professors who will teach your classes all semester and to network with fellow:

• classmates
• alumni
• MBA participants

You’ll have access to some of the best resources and services as you participate in this program, too. From top-ranked career services to student clubs and hands-on leadership training, the Tepper School offers some of the best opportunities for you to be successful as an MBA student—and beyond.

As a STEM-designated program, the degree has a dual focus on leadership development and strategic analytics.  You’ll take core MBA courses like Managerial Economics and Global Economics before moving onto courses in your concentration area of business technologies. With this concentration, you’ll benefit from collaborative relationships with:

• the School of Computer Science
• the Heinz College of Informations Systems and Public Policy
• the Software Engineering Institute

You’ll learn how to solve core business problems across various domains by using both technology and data. This will be done by taking core classes like:

• Data Mining
• Technology Strategy
• Digital Marketing and Social Media Strategy

To apply, you’ll need to complete an online application form and submit a current resume. You will also have to submit:

• an essay
• a professional recommendation
• unofficial transcripts

Official GMAT scores are also required. 

An affordable program, this degree is accessible for all students with low tuition and numerous financial aid opportunities available. In fact, the Tepper School of Business has up to $15,000 in scholarships available each year. 

#9. Mississippi College

MBA With a Concentration in Management Information Systems

A Baptist college located in Clinton, MS, Mississippi College was established in 1826 and is the second-oldest Baptist college in the country. It is also the second-oldest college in the entire state of Mississippi.

Mississippi has:

• 80 undergraduate majors
• 50 graduate areas of study
• multiple doctoral and professional programs

It is a small private school with a big city vibe. You’ll enjoy one-of-a-kind access to some of the most in-depth curricula in the country along with close-knit faculty and student relationships.

Despite its historic roots, Mississippi College offers a Master of Business Administration that is anything but outdated. The degree program is uniquely designed for individuals who work full-time but wish to study on a part-time basis. Courses are offered entirely online or in the evening hours, with all core management information systems offered online. This degree is fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

This concentration is perfect for students who wish to work in the information technology industry. You’ll take 30 semester hours of graduate study, with online coursework including:

• Financial Management
• Leadership in a Global Environment
• Law and Ethics in the Business Environment

You’ll also choose from concentration courses like:

• Strategic Management of Information Systems
• Introduction to Physical Security
• Statistical Data Analysis

Each course is offered within a Christian framework. It teaches students how to investigate core business issues while also acquiring management skills and ethical worldviews. In addition to the concentration in management information systems, you can choose from concentrations in things like:

• accounting
• finance

There’s even a joint JD/MBA degree you can pursue, too.

You’ll benefit from small class sizes and personal connections with faculty, with a vast majority (20 out of 22!) holding Ph.D.’s in their fields. They are also equipped with a wealth of professional business experience. There are plenty of ways you can get involved on campus like:

• Executive Speakers Series that will expose you to the thoughts and experiences of some of the world’s most prominent business leaders
• Faith and Business Ethics Week that will enable you to hear from top executives about how they incorporate faith and ethics into the workplace

You can even contribute to the MC Business publication, the official magazine of the school of business, and the newsletter series for alumni and friends. The business school has connections to countless industry partners, too. These connections help to facilitate all kinds of short-term and long-term internship and career opportunities. Industry partners include:

• Century Construction
• Stringer Industries, Inc.
• Butler Snow Advisory

You don’t have to pay an arm and a leg for that kind of academic quality or for those hands-on experiences, either. Tuition is incredibly affordable, with graduate rates starting at just $645 per credit hour. Numerous scholarships are available for students who qualify, too.

To apply, you will need to have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university or college. You’ll need a satisfactory score on the GMAT, but you can qualify for a waiver if you have an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher or a GPA between 2.5 and 2.99 and three years of applicable professional experience. 

#10. Creighton University

Master of Business Administration With an Information Technology Management Specialization

As a private, Jesuit university in Omaha, NE, Creighton University was founded by the Society of Jesus in 1878. Home to numerous reputable schools and colleges, the university is nationally ranked among top publications, like Forbes, U.S. News & World Report, Washington Monthly, and more.

The Master of Business Administration is offered by the Heider College of Business. It is incredibly flexible and well-suited for students with busy schedules. You’ll learn how to improve your communication and problem-solving skills. You’ll gain the confidence necessary to become an effective business leader. 

The Heider College of Business is highly connected to the business world, with more than 90% of all students completing at least one internship while enrolled. Not only that, but 99% of Heider students are employed or enrolled in further professional education within six months of graduation. 

The experiences you will have here are second to none. You could work guiding investments for $7 million of the university’s endowment or you could help run the Apple-authorized campus store. You could even study abroad to expand your business experiences or use your skills to help other students in courses like the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program or the BlueBox practicum. 

Earning a degree from Creighton is a great way to gain recognition from peers and employers. The university places a high value on moral and ethical decision-making, critical thinking, and the formation of leadership skills. In fact, MBA graduates from within the last 15 years report an average salary that is 20% higher than the salary of other graduates around the country.

Class sizes are kept deliberately small to facilitate personal connections between students and faculty. You will be treated not as a number, but as an individual. You’ll take 33 credits of coursework over the course of two years, enabling you to get out into the workforce as quickly as possible. 

Upon graduation from the management information systems MBA, you’ll join a  network of successful Creighton alumni. Graduates have gone on to work for a variety of Fortune 500 companies, including ConAgra, TD Ameritrade, Mutual of Omaha, Union Pacific, and more. These connections will prove to be vital to you as they help you open doors in your career. 

In addition to the concentration in information technology management, you can also choose from specific business area concentrations like finance, accounting, financial psychology and behavioral finance, personal financial planning, and leadership. Regardless of the concentration you choose, you’ll take functional core courses like:

• Financial Reporting for MBAs
• Managerial Finance, Marketing Management
• Economic Analysis for Managers

Offered both on-campus and online, the degree has identical admissions requirements regardless of the format. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher. You’ll also need to submit official transcripts from all universities you have attended and GMAT scores. Two letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume or curriculum vitae are also required. Most students will also need to complete an undergraduate statistics course to qualify, too.

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS 

#11. Stevens Institute of Technology

Location: Hoboken, NJ

Degree: Master of Business Administration Degree – with a Concentration in Management Information Systems

Net Price: $37,250

Website 

#12. Charleston Southern University

Location: North Charleston, SC

Degree: Master of Business Administration Degree – with a Concentration in Management Information Systems

Net Price: $7,540

Website 

#13. George Washington University

Location: Washington, D.C.

Degree: MBA with Concentrations: Information Systems and Technology Management

Net Price: $30,834

Website 

#14. Florida Atlantic University

Location: Boca Raton, FL

Degree: MBA in Management Information Systems 

Net Price: $6,657

Website 

#15. DeSales University

Location: Center Valley, PA

Degree: MBA Concentration in Information Systems

Net Price: $20,160

Website 

#16. Fort Hays State

Location: Hays, KS

Degree: MBA – with a Concentration in Management Information Systems

Net Price: $4,266

Website 

#17. Missouri State University

Location: Springfield, MO

Degree: MBA – with a Concentration in Management Information Systems

Net Price: $6,038

Website 

#18. University of North Alabama

Location: Florence, AL

Degree: MBA – with a Concentration in Information Systems

Net Price: $7,112

Website 

#19. University of Alabama

Location: Tuscaloosa, AL

Degree: MBA – with a Concentration in Management Information Systems

Net Price: $7,112

Website 

#20. University of South Florida St. Petersburg

Location: St. Petersburg, FL

Degree: MBA – with a Concentration in Management Information Systems

Net Price: $10,226

Website 

#21. Eastern Illinois University

Location: Charleston, IL

Degree: MBA with GIS Option

Net Price: $9,958

Website 

#22. University of Dallas

Location: Irving, TX

Degree: MBA in Information and Technology Management

Net Price: $33,750

Website 

#23. Emporia State University

Location: Emporia, KS

Degree: MBA – with a Concentration in Information Systems

Net Price: $8,464

Website 

#24. Wayne State University

Location: Detroit, MI

Degree: MBA – with a Concentration in Information Systems Management 

Net Price: $17,661

Website 

#25. Tennessee Technological University

Location: Cookeville, TN

Degree: MBA – with a Concentration in Management Information Systems

Net Price: $11,283

Website 

#26. King University

Location: Bristol, TN

Degree: MBA in Management Information Systems

Net Price: $19,500

Website 

#27. Dallas Baptist University

Location: Dallas, TX

Degree: Master of Business Administration with a Major in Management Information Systems

Net Price: $18,262

Website 

#28. Lawrence Technological University

Location: Southfield, MI

Degree: MBA with an Information Technology Concentration

Net Price: $20,406

Website 

#29. Marywood University

Location: Scranton, PA

Degree: MBA – with a Concentration in Management Information Systems

Net Price: $11,300

Website 

#30. West Texas A&M University

Location: Canyon, tX

Degree: Master of Business Administration with an Emphasis in Computer Information Systems

Net Price: $6,733

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IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE 50 BEST ONLINE MASTER’S PROGRAMS IN CYBERSECURITY & 50 MOST POPULAR ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREES!

As a field, marketing contains multitudes. Each type of marketing has its own complex subsystem of delivery methods, and they’re only proliferating as life becomes more digital and our attention more diffuse. Attracting consumers’ notice is the chief currency of the attention economy, and figuring out how to do that takes a lot of research and skill—the kind of skill that gets honed with an advanced degree. Even better, an advanced degree–such as one from our list of the best online Master’s programs in Marketing Management–that can be completed online part-time in as little as a year.

Like the field it studies, a Master’s degree in marketing management can take a couple of different forms, as a degree in marketing itself, or as a concentration within a broader degree like a Master of Business Administration. Some schools dive deep into all the facets of marketing, while others add them on to a larger understanding of how business works. It all depends on students’ goals and career interests.

What signposts should guide their aspirations? A good place to start is the Bureau of Labor Statistics, that treasure trove of data about careers in the United States. Its Occupational Outlook Handbook for advertising, promotions, and marketing managers takes a high-level view of the industry, forecasting 8% growth through 2028—the national average for all occupations is 5%— with another 21,800 jobs expected to be added in the next decade. That’s a total of 308,600 jobs for advertising, promotions, and marketing managers. Interestingly, the BLS says that the highest-paying industries for those jobs are scientific research and development services, followed by cable and subscription programming. Who knew?

The industries with the most jobs in these fields? “Management of Companies and Enterprises,” which is almost comically broad, followed by more specific categories like Computer Systems Design and Related Services and Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services. The places with the most jobs? California, Illinois, New York, Massachusetts, and Texas, on a state level, though New York, Chicago, Boston, LA, and San Francisco are the metropolitan areas with the most.

In its rankings for best jobs, U.S. News & World Report lists marketing manager as the No. 1 position among Best Sales and Marketing Jobs, No. 15 for Best Paying Jobs, and No. 31 in the 100 Best Jobs – better than physical therapist assistant, but not as good as dental hygienist. Marketing managers earn above-average scores for upward mobility and stress, but below average for flexibility (i.e., “alternative working schedule and work-life balance”). U.S. News takes a dimmer view of future growth in the field than the BLS – a 2 out of 10 – but doesn’t go into specifics about how it arrived at that figure. The publication seems to base it on BLS data, so when in doubt, go with the BLS. CareerBuilder.com also has a good overview of life as a marketing manager, listing common responsibilities and typical working environments, but as it says on that page, the job can vary significantly by company and industry. Marketing is a vast world, so making generalizations about the day-to-day experiences of a marketing manager is difficult.

Common Application and Admission Questions

Perhaps the first thing to know when it comes to online degrees is that distance learning is heavily regulated, which means each state has say over schools that offer education within their boundaries. So if you live in Colorado and want to study at the University of Cincinnati, the school needs Colorado’s permission to teach you. The process was streamlined with the passage of the State Authority Reciprocity Agreement, wherein states agreed to a set of baseline standards for distance learning. Every state except California participates in SARA, so institutions that want to offer instruction there have to deal with a different governing body.

Confused yet? Fear not. Every school that offers online education has regulatory information on its website, so it’s a pretty easy thing to check. (The National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements also has a directory.) The University of Cincinnati even has a cool, clickable map of the U.S. that gives state-by-state information. So in the hypothetical case of a person from Colorado wanting to study at the U. of C.? All good, because Ohio and Colorado are SARA states. The gist: make sure to verify the school you pick can teach you.

Speaking of schools, as mentioned above, they tend to treat a management Master’s in one of two ways: as a concentration within a larger degree, or as the degree itself. A bachelor’s degree generally suffices for admission, though one with a business focus helps. Many programs require students to have a basic level of proficiency in certain related areas, such as accounting, finance, statistics, etc. Anyone lacking those things will need to take foundational courses, which will add time to their degree. Schools often include foundational coursework in their curriculum, but waive the requirement if students have completed similar classes during undergraduate studies or have relevant professional experience. It varies by school, though, so make sure to check those details first.

Most of the universities in our top 10 offer MBAs with an emphasis in marketing. The marketing focus varies, some via three electives and others via more courses integrated into the core studies. Then there are places like Golden Gate University (No. 10), whose Master of Science in marketing not only focuses on marketing, but also offers three concentrations within that so students can further specialize what type of marketing they wish to pursue. Some schools require the GRE or GMAT, but nearly all of them require some kind of personal statement (generally an essay about your background and experience, and what you’d bring to the program) and letters of recommendation.

The online experience can vary greatly, too. While most schools stick to popular platforms like Canvas or Blackboard, some have their own proprietary systems. Nearly all of them, if not all, are asynchronous, meaning you don’t have to be online at a certain time to complete the coursework. Schools aim to be as flexible as possible, especially when it comes to part-time students who probably work full time, so watching lectures and completing coursework can be done on their schedule. That said, expect regular assignments that have to be turned in on a deadline, and live chats with other students and instructors will naturally fall at a certain time. All schools offer tech support for their online learners, and all try to make the experience as communal as possible so it doesn’t feel like a solitary journey. It shouldn’t—according to the National Center for Education Statistics, 1,011,864 people were enrolled in graduate online education courses in 2015, the most recent year for data.

What about Financial Aid & Scholarships?

The average cost of an academic year of schooling for the programs on our list is $17,602, and the median is $17,326. We calculate those numbers using the base tuition as a starting point and factor in financial aid opportunities. The price ranges from $9,989 (University of Texas – Dallas) to $34,139 (Florida Institute of Technology), a huge difference by any measure.

While the bad news is that the cost of college tuition will likely continue to rise, the good news is that every university offers some kind of assistance with financial aid. That could be as basic as helping connect students with loans and scholarships, or creating a cost breakdown of their degree, to offering grants and scholarships themselves. Higher education—especially the online variety—is a competitive business, so schools need to be accommodating to attract students. The more they can assist students in finding a way to pay for education, the better it is for the schools themselves.

Scholarships are generally based on merit, and grants on need, and there are a far greater number open to undergraduates than grad students. Searching for scholarships on the internet returns about a million results, most of them sites aggregating scholarship information from elsewhere, though GoGrad.org (which focuses on graduate scholarships) and scholarships.com have very robust listings – the latter even has lists for distance learning and business and marketing. Even student-loan provider SallieMae has a lot of information, via its Scholarship Search tool and collections of scholarships for minorities. Unlike, say, STEM fields, marketing doesn’t have a big push from government and private industry for people to pursue it in their education. (“Go into marketing!” doesn’t quite have the same appeal as “Become a scientist!”)

But the best place to start looking for financial aid is with your employer, if you have one. Many companies offer to pay for, or help pay for, continuing education, especially if it’s related to what you do and will improve your work. Veterans have a lot of options, as universities are eager to attract them. The University of Massachusetts – Lowell even has an Office of Veterans Services, and U.S. News and World Report offers a Best Colleges for Veterans list, based on how much they get in federal initiatives to help veterans and active-duty military. Veterans also have the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which can help significantly with education costs. Beyond all the grants and scholarships lie regular old student loans, whose sketchier providers have faced an intense backlash from students and government investigators in recent years. See the Department of Education’s Federal Student Aid site for an easy overview on how loans work, and it’s also the place to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid to check if you qualify for federal programs.

How Much Can I Make With a Master’s in Marketing Management?

An enviable amount. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says the average wage for marketing managers is $147,240, with the bottom 10% still bringing in nearly $70,000 and the top 75% pulling down $181,780. That means even the people earning the least are still making nearly double the U.S. median wage for all workers, which currently stands at $38,640, per the BLS. On top of that, U.S. News & World Report lists the unemployment rate for marketing managers at a low 1.8% and a median salary of $132,230.

Salaries fluctuate by location, with the highest salaries coinciding with the places with higher costs of living: New York, San Francisco, Silicon Valley. Boulder, CO, isn’t cheap, either, but the average wage for the 500 marketing managers living there is $191,890 – a very good living no matter how you cut it. Or consider places like “non-metropolitan” northwest Minnesota, where the 200 or so marketing management jobs pay an average of $125,390 – more than double the state’s average wage, per the BLS. Those are great numbers, so justifying the expense of a marketing degree shouldn’t be difficult.

All of those statistics are tied to the role of marketing manager, but because the field is so large and full of numerous specializations, a variety of jobs can follow a Master’s in marketing. Washington State University lists the top three on the website for its marketing MBA: marketing director, business development manager, and the aforementioned marketing manager. Directors operate on a higher level than managers, obviously, using “advanced knowledge of their competitors and industry climate to formulate big-picture operational strategy,” says WSU. Business development managers – “biz dev” if you want to throw around the lingo – bring in the work, choosing which “potential business partners to target and negotiate terms of those new partnerships.” Obviously, the specifics of the roles vary, and marketing jobs extend further than those top three.

Most of the programs on our list offer marketing as a specialization within an MBA, a degree with a wider business focus and thus even more potential industries and careers. A strong business foundation with marketing know-how can go a long way in a variety of environments, making the MBA track an attractive option. That’s probably why 189,328 Master’s degrees in business were given out in 2013-2014, per the National Center for Education Statistics. Those numbers have probably only gone up in the years since as the career opportunities expand. As we noted earlier, the BLS expects there to be 21,800 more jobs for advertising, promotions, and marketing managers in the next decade. That means more than 300,000 jobs out there with a median salary of $132,620. What more incentive do you need?

Our Ranking Criteria

We have a time-tested four-part formula designed for ranking the best colleges in the nation that we’d love to share with you. We prioritize four major factors: Earnings Potential, Affordability, Student Satisfaction, and Selectivity. Reliable research and well-harvested data are the main ingredients in our recipe for success. We don’t make recommendations based on personal opinions, or financial incentives. Our revenue and content are completely separate, and sponsored schools have no impact on our rankings. The only way to make it onto one of our lists is to have an incredible academic program!

What Are the Best Online Master’s Programs in Marketing Management?

We know that you have educational goals that you’re itching to pursue, but you may not know where to start. The editors of Master’s Programs Guide utilize a unique ranking methodology based on the following three aspects:

 40% Potential Salary After Graduation: Average mid-career salary of school alumni

30% Institutional Accreditation: Regional and National Accreditation for the 2019-2020 school year

30% Overall Degree Affordability: Average cost of undergraduate and graduate tuition per school

At Master’s Programs Guide, we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one, and we want to help you reach your goals. For questions, comments, badge downloads, or data corrections, please feel free to reach out to us at editor@collegerank.net.

Check out our ranking of the 10 best online Master’s programs in marketing management!

#1. Arizona State University

Master of Business Administration, Marketing Emphasis

Back in 2000, the W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State debuted its first online MBA program, which was available exclusively to John Deere employees. People who worked outside the farm-equipment world got their first taste of an online MBA four years later, when the W.B. Carey Online MBA debuted. Since those days, U.S. News & World Report has ranked it highly, most recently No. 6 for Best Online MBA Programs and No. 33 for Best Business Schools.

Like a lot of online programs, the Carey School of Business doesn’t distinguish between its online and on-campus courses, as both are taught by the same faculty and have the same curriculum. Designed for working professionals with 5 to 10 years of experience, the online MBA lasts 21 months, with start dates in January and August. Students take two courses at a time in seven and a half week sessions, which conclude with final exams or projects.

Marketing is one of four areas of emphasis within the MBA—rounded out by finance, international business, and supply chain management—and it blends marketing strategy with services marketing and management, per the program’s website. Coursework in marketing comes via electives, such as Business to Business Marketing, Services Marketing & Management, and Global Marketing Strategy. The core MBA coursework comprises nine classes (Statistics for Managers, Financial Performance Reporting, Operations and Supply Management, etc.) and a capstone in Strategic Management.

ASU has a good overview video describing the online course experience, which is pretty high-tech. For instance, the school maintains the “integrity” of the program via anti-plagiarism software, remote proctoring (so no need to find someone to watch you take a test), and biometric identifiers to ensure people are who they say they are. In addition to all that anti-cheating tech, the courses feature a lot of interactivity among students in “media rich discussions” (i.e., videos, graphics, etc.), searchable transcriptions for lecture videos, and conferencing tools to facilitate easy collaboration. There’s an in-house support staff that works 24/7 to help with technical issues, though the system requirements are pretty simple: a computer and a fast internet connection. Thankfully, course assignments do not require special software.

All of it begins with a mandatory orientation on-campus at Arizona State, where students meet the other remote students who will be their peers over the following 21 months. This being a distance-learning situation, traveling to Tempe, AZ may not be an option for some, who can petition to attend a “virtual orientation.”

Before anyone can meet each other, they have to be admitted to the program, though the prerequisites are pretty standard: a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 semester hours; letters of recommendation; GMAT/GRE test scores; a current resume; references; a personal statement; official transcripts; and the answers to a pair of short essay questions that provide some personal background.

Earn admission and complete your Master’s, and you’ll be in good company: according to ASU data, its 2018 MBA graduates earned an average salary of $100,303 with an average signing bonus of $16,696. Considering the net cost of the school’s online MBA program is $13,731 per academic year, the degree can pay for itself pretty quickly.

#2. University of Massachusetts – Lowell

Master of Business Administration

The University of Massachusetts at Lowell has a relatively short history within the UMass system, having joined it in 1991. Prior to that, it was known as the University of Lowell and other names stretching back to 1894, when it began as a teaching college called the Lowell Normal School. While the university’s main campus is located about 80 miles southwest in Amherst, Lowell has a good-sized student body (more than 18,000) and, more pertinent to this program, the No. 51 best online MBA program, per U.S. News & World Report.

Like many other schools on this list, marketing is a concentration area within the UMass-Lowell MBA program. There are nine options, including accounting, international business, and IT, and all of them share the same required business courses. Marketing electives provide the specialization in courses like Market Research, Digital Marketing, International Marketing, and four others. Students take up to 16 courses for a total of 42 credits, but 12 of those credits come from “foundations courses” in topics like Financial Accounting, Operations Fundamentals, etc., though the foundations can be waived for people who have completed similar courses with a B or better within the past ten years. After building the foundation, students complete seven courses (21 credits) in core MBA courses such as Corporate Finance, Management Information Systems, Operations Management, and more. Capping it off are three elective courses for nine credits, though not every course is offered each semester.

Coursework is done 100% online via Blackboard, a popular web-learning platform, with no required campus visits—though on-campus resources are available to distance learners. UMass-Lowell has a really helpful FAQ that spells out a lot of details of its program, which a lot of places surprisingly lack. For instance, the school says students will spend eight to 12 hours per week on each course, including the three credit hours of class time. (For reference, part-time online students usually take one or two courses per semester, and the program can be finished in as little as 18 months.) The coursework can be completed at each person’s pace – they don’t need to log into their class a certain day or time, so long as they turn in assignments by the due date. To help make it a little more personal, each course has an optional one-hour Chat Hour every week, where students can interact with each other, their instructor, and review course material. Speaking of other students, class sizes ranges from 20 to 40 of them.

To earn that MBA, students need to maintain a 3.0 or higher GPA, and MBA students are allowed to receive only two grades below a B. (Rack up a third C or lower, and you’ll need to take an additional class and get a B in it.) What about getting into the MBA program? UMass requires the usual stuff: statement of purpose (“highlighting academic and career goals”), three letters of recommendation, official transcripts, GMAT score (which can be waived if applicants have proof of eight or more years of professional/managerial experience), and a resume. At $18,257, UMass’ MBA is a little more than the average cost of the schools on this list, with a clear, easy-to-understand program guide that is not typical for similar programs.

#3. University of Maryland Global Campus

Master of Science in Management with Marketing Specialization

Where most universities offer continuing education and online coursework in addition to their on-campus opportunities, as UMGC puts it, “It’s what we do.” The school’s history goes back to the late 1940s, when it began as the College of Special and Continuation Studies, so it has known no other mission than to educate adults. As such, it was early to the online-learning game, first offering courses via the web in the mid-’90s. Now distance learning is its focus, with more than 80,000 students worldwide.

While marketing management is generally offered as a specialization of a broader advanced business degree, UMGC goes beyond the “Three electives oughta do it” approach of some other programs: First, its degree is an MS in management, not an MBA, so it already has a narrower focus. Second, it offers six marketing-specific courses within its management MS, such as Management, Legal and Ethical Issues (a biggie worth six credits), Consumer Behavior, Brand Management, and others. They’re all part of a program that requires 36 credits for a Master’s: 12 credits in core courses (Organizational Theory and Behavior, Financial Decision Making for Managers, Statistics for Managerial Decision Making), 21 credits in specialization courses, and then three credits for the Strategic Management Capstone. The final project is “an investigation of how strategy interacts with and guides an organization within its internal and external environments,” with a focus on the entire strategic process.

It feels like you need an MBA just to decipher the capstone description, but maybe that’s just all part of the experience. UMGC notes the coursework will have students learning how to prepare a marketing plan for a real-world product or solution; completing a consumer-experience project mindful of ethical marketing; developing a consumer-intervention strategy based on research; and understanding digital-marketing channels and learning how to calculate ROI.

Because UMGC exists to serve continuing education, it keeps its admission requirements approachable: prospective students need only a bachelor’s degree. No GRE or GMAT, no letters of recommendation, personal statements, resumes, or anything like that – just an undergrad degree from an accredited university. That said, the school politely suggests that students lacking recent experience in statistics take Introduction to Research Methods. People who don’t have experience with finance or accounting should check out Introduction to Accounting & Financial Management. And anyone who wants to polish their writing skills will want to take Effective Graduate Writing. None of those courses will count toward a Master’s, but feeling more comfortable in graduate-level classes is its own reward.

The pro-student approach extends to the program cost: $13,672, well below the average and median for the schools on this list. All classes are taken via UMGC’s Learning Experience Online, a.k.a. LEO, a proprietary system created by the university. It has an interactive calendar to track assignments, deadlines, and other course events; easy access to online classrooms from smart devices; an “enhanced progress tool” that shows “where you stand in a class”; and audio and other messaging functions that streamline instructor feedback. As laid back as UMGC is, students need to maintain a 3.0 GPA to graduate, and must complete all of their coursework within five consecutive years. It has to draw the line somewhere!

#4. The University of Texas – Dallas

Master of Science in Marketing

At $9,989 per academic year, the University of Texas at Dallas has at least one thing going for it: affordability. It’s the cheapest option in our top 10 list, and nearly half the average price for schools listed here. (Oklahoma residents and veterans, along with their spouses and dependents, may be eligible for special in-state tuition rates.) It also happens to be ranked No. 7 for Best Online Graduate Business Programs (Excluding MBA) by U.S. News and World Report.

As part of Naveen Jindal School of Management at UTD – named after its most famous alumnus, the industrialist and Indian politician – the online Master of Science in marketing is a 36 credit-hour program that drills deep into its subject. This isn’t an elective specialization tacked onto a broader business degree. It begins with 15 semester credit hours of core courses like Marketing Management and Statistics & Data Management, including a capstone in Marketing Decision Making. The capstone is a simulation where students group up to compete for market share, profits, and stock price in a fictional market. The groups make strategic decisions like production, price, advertising, etc. to compete with other teams for different parts of the marketplace.

Beyond the core courses are 20 available electives. Students need 21 credit hours from them, at least nine of which come from marketing management electives—some with simple names (Pricing) and others more technical (Predictive Analytics Using SAS). The remaining 12 hours can come from a list of non-marketing management electives, such as Spreadsheet Modeling and Analytics (sexy!) and another simple-sounding one (Negotiation). Not all courses are offered every semester, but students can work with the program director to find a workable substitute when necessary. There’s also a one-credit-hour prerequisite Professional Development course that nearly all students within the Jindal School of Management have to take.

All told, the Master of Science in marketing program at UTD requires 36 hours to earn the degree. The coursework involves prerecorded sessions that students access any time that’s convenient— there’s no need to be online at a certain time on a certain day. Most of them also involve online exams, some of which will need to be proctored.

The program begins in the fall, spring, and summer, and UTD gets a little more specific with its admissions requirements: the GMAT or GRE; transcripts, resume with a detailed work history; letter of recommendation; and a personal-objectives statement. Some applicants may be able to skip the GMAT/GRE requirement, if their undergraduate degree is from a school accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Everyone else: plan to take one of those. Although the school doesn’t specify a score to earn admission, it discloses that current averages among admitted students are 600 for the GMAT and 310 for the GRE.

If anyone’s on the fence about whether an MS in marketing is worth the effort, UTD has a career outcomes page that shares data for average salary based on work experience, salary comparison by major, job placement rates, and more. The gist of all of them: yes, the degree is worth it. According to the school’s data, 95% of its graduates had a job six months after graduation, with an average salary of $85,000. A Master’s degree increases salaries by an average of 15%, according to UTD. Those kinds of numbers are enough to nudge anyone off the fence.

#5. University of South Dakota

Master of Business Administration – Marketing Specialization

The University of South Dakota’s Beacom (yes, with an “m”) School of Business has been around since 1927, the same year work began on Mount Rushmore on the other side of the state, some 400 miles from the university’s home in Vermillion. It took 14 years to finish Mount Rushmore, but USD students earning an MBA online should be able to finish in about two, with significantly less rock-blasting required.

Like some other programs on this list, the university offers marketing as a specialization within an MBA, via nine credit hours atop 27 credit hours of core coursework. The core stuff is nine courses, four of which have “managerial” in their name: Managerial Accounting, Managerial Finance, Managerial Marketing, Managerial Economics. We’ll also count Operations Management and Strategic Management, because they’re close enough. Marketing folks take one required class, Advanced Consumer Behavior, then select two more courses from a list of five, such as Data Mining for Managers, Supply Chain Management, and New Product Development. The lesson: don’t come to USD unless you are ready and willing to manage.

Other than that, the admissions requirements are pretty low-key: an undergrad degree with a minimum GPA of 2.7, a “satisfactory” GMAT score (though it doesn’t specify what qualifies as satisfactory), three letters of recommendation (at least one professional), and a foundational curriculum. That’s where USD gets tricky: its MBA program requires 36 credit hours to graduate, but if students lack the foundational coursework, that number jumps to 54. Those are six classes, almost all of whose names begin with “Foundations of…”—accounting, finance, calculus and statistics for business, marketing and organizational behavior, and economics.

These are the entry-level courses designed for people who lack any undergraduate or professional business training; anyone who has completed equivalent courses will be given “advanced standing” and proceed on to the 36 hours of MBA studies. People who have completed some of the basics will have an individualized program of study created for them. What if you don’t have the coursework, but know your stuff? Then put your knowledge to the test via challenge exams, which are available.

Once all of that is figured out, students within the program will find a pretty robust curriculum that examines marketing from several angles, including the factors that contribute to purchasing decisions, the ins and outs of developing and marketing a brand, a detailed examination of the product development process (from conception through prototyping, forecasting demand, production and launch), and exploring data to identify customers, products, and processes.

That’s a lot to cram into nine credit hours of specialized marketing instruction, but MBA programs are designed to pack a lot into a little bit of time. Like other schools, USD doesn’t distinguish between on-campus and online, with distance learners working with the same instructors and same curriculum as their local counterparts. They also have access to a suite of student support services, from IT support to writing assistance and even a personal Library Liaison who can help with research needs. Completing the MBA program at USD will cost $17,354 per academic year, almost a bull’s eye for the median price for programs on this list.

#6. University of North Texas

Master of Business Administration in Marketing

On the top of the homepage for its online MBA in marketing, the University of North Texas has a pretty sweet stock photo from the ’90s of business executives having what looks like a very important business meeting about business. It looks like the kind of high-level discussion open only to senior executives with MBAs, though when the photo was taken, completing coursework online involved a dial-up modem and barebones interactivity.

That’s not the kind of thing UNT students will find today with the school’s online MBA in marketing. Designed to provide “an excellent conceptual foundation and managerial skills,” it ties with the University of North Dakota for No. 31 in Best Online MBA Programs, according to U.S. News and World Report. Getting into the program is pretty typical: a bachelor’s degree; GMAT (520-540) or GRE (153 verbal, 154 quantitative); an updated resume; three letters of recommendation, no older than a year; transcripts; etc. However, if that bachelor’s degree includes a 3.5 or higher GPA, the school waives the GRE/GMAT requirement.

At $12,600, the cost is better than typical, falling significantly below the average and median prices for the programs on our list. Also typical, the 36 credit hours required to earn the MBA, which includes six courses (18 hours), two required marketing courses (six hours), three supporting courses (nine hours), and one elective (three hours). There are also 18 hours of basic “background” courses – Economic Concepts, Management Issues, Marketing Concepts, etc.—that may be required if students don’t have enough undergrad experience. The admissions department assesses the need for any background classes while it evaluates undergraduate transcripts.

The MBA in marketing program kicks in for real with the six core classes, such as Accounting for Management, Financial Management, Marketing Management, and others lacking “management” in their name. The two required courses are Information in Strategic Marketing Decisions and Effective Marketing Planning in Dynamic Environments, then students choose three of four potential supporting courses. Those lean more on broader business concepts, such as logistics and supply-chain management, though Decision Marketing in Global Markets is also an option. The single elective must fall outside of marketing, and the choice of course for that is made in consultation with an advisor.

Speaking of faculty, UNT assures prospective students that their instructors are attentive and reachable, organizing student chats and discussion threads, monitoring their progress, and generally staying on top of things via email. Coursework is completed at the students’ schedule through a combination of the popular distance-learning platforms Canvas and Blackboard, and UNT has a variety of IT support options for students via live chat, trouble tickets, and email, along with phone calls and even walk-in assistance for people who live near Denton, TX. The program rotates through fall, summer, and spring, so new students have several opportunities to begin the MBA in marketing program each year. Get through it, and you too can be an important business executive talking business in a business meeting.

#7. Washington State University

Master of Business Administration in Marketing

Washington State University first began offering online courses in 1992, which qualifies as “prehistoric” in the timeline of internet history. How prehistoric? That was the year someone posted a photo on the internet for the first time. It was the year that saw the phrase “surfing the internet” become a thing, even though most people had no idea what “the internet” was. Anyway, it was a long time ago, which means WSU has had a lot of experience in the world of distance learning.

Unsurprisingly, the school treats its online students the same as the ones who matriculate on campus in Pullman, WA. WSU’s Global Campus features the same curriculum and same instructors, and the school tries to make the experience feel more communal with student engagement activities like live webinars, meet-ups, clubs, etc. For its efforts, WSU earns high rankings in U.S. News and World Report’s overview of online programs, including No. 13 for Best Online MBA Programs.

Marketing is one of four concentrations within the MBA, along with finance, international business, and hospitality business management, anchored by three courses: International Marketing Management, New Product Marketing, and Promotional Management. They build on Marketing Management, one of the nine core courses in the MBA degree. WSU says the marketing concentration allows students to understand consumer behavior and the psychology behind it, analyze and react to consumer trends, grasp the differences between foreign and domestic markets and learn to work with those differences, and more. All of the coursework adds up to 36 credits: 21 core, nine from the marketing concentration, and six more from three capstone courses.

For the final capstone course, students create a business plan, and the two preceding capstone courses prepare them for what they need to deliver—first with a feasibility study, then creating the plan based on the study. The whole shebang can be completed as quickly as 22 to 29 months, according to WSU, but may take longer if your undergraduate and/or professional experience lacks business competencies. In that case, WSU offers a suite of seven foundation courses, providing basics in operations management, business law, marketing, finance, and more. People who earned a bachelor’s degree in business or took equivalent courses with a B average are exempt, but students need to confer with an enrollment advisor to plan their approach.

The coolest part of WSU’s MBA program is an optional field study, where students travel to Finland and Estonia for a weeklong residency—really putting the “distance” in “distance learning.” The idea is the trip gives students a peek into businesses in some of the world’s fastest growing economies, taking “an in-depth look into how digital citizenship affects entrepreneurs” and checking out international tourism strategies.

Also notable for WSU: what defines its admissions approach. The school takes its land-grant mission seriously, so it wants to be open to just about anyone who’s willing to do the work. So it evaluates “the whole of a person’s experiences” when considering admission, with no one thing defining the candidacy of prospective students. They’ll need transcripts, a resume, one letter of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a GMAT score (which can be waived based on certain criteria). They’ll also need $17,297 per academic year, which is about the median price for schools in our top 10.

#8. Florida Institute of Technology

Master of Business Administration in Marketing

Florida Tech was founded in 1958 to educate professionals working in Florida’s Space Coast, so it may seem like a surprising fit for a marketing concentration in an MBA. But Florida Tech comes in hot with a list of things students will learn in its program: how to identify marketing opportunities and develop successful strategies; how to position a brand and build equity; how to use statistical and economic data to identify and manage risk; how to integrate financial, personnel, operations, and marketing initiatives; and more.

The MBA program offers a mix of “core business fundamentals with an in-depth knowledge of marketing strategies, consumer behavior, market research, multinational business policy, product management, and legal responsibility.” That comes from 36 credits of study, 21 from core courses, 12 from marketing specialization courses, and a three-credit capstone. Included with the core coursework—featuring classes like Managerial Economics, Managerial Accounting, Essentials of Business Development 1 and 2—are two general electives, chosen based on the student’s goals and interests. The marketing specialization curriculum comes from four courses: Strategic Marketing, International Business, Consumer Behavior Strategies, and Advanced Market Research. The capstone, which rules dictate must be taken the final semester before graduation, uses real-world examples and simulations to provide a practical grounding in what could easily get lost in hypotheticals.

The whole process takes two years to complete, with the 12 courses in the program running eight weeks apiece. Getting into the program is a surprisingly simple process: Florida Tech handles the transcripts once you submit a request form, there’s no GRE or GMAT requirement, no letters of recommendation or resume, and no application fee. Florida Tech is the only school on this list that doesn’t charge one, but maybe it’s included in the overall price, because Florida Tech doesn’t come cheap: $34,139, nearly double the median price for this list and a whole lot more than the average.

While that is a lot of money, especially for a degree earned exclusively online, the school tries to make the money count. When students are accepted into the program, they work with student representatives that help them prepare, from answering questions about the online learning process, to assisting with class registration and ordering textbooks. Students interact with classmates and their instructors via discussion boards, email, and chats.

The courses themselves take a variety of formats, with a lot of video and interactive media. The asynchronous setup means students don’t have to be at a certain place at a certain time to do their work – they learn on their own time, while minding the due dates for assignments. How much time students spend on each class every week varies; instructors will provide all the requirements when classes begin. As coursework winds down, students can work with Florida Tech’s Career Management Services to assist with writing a good resume and looking for a job.

#9. University of Cincinnati

Master of Business Administration

On its website, the University of Cincinnati lists 11 “firsts” associated with the school from the first oral polio vaccine (by U. of C. researcher Albert Sabin), to the “first safe anti-knock gasoline” (take that, creators of the first dangerous anti-knock gasoline), to the spiritual ancestor of online learning, the first degree program offered via satellite. These days, online learning remains a focus at U. of C., with the school racking up five top 20 spots for online learning rankings by U.S. News and World Report and, pertinent to this degree, No. 66 for Best Online MBA Programs.

Like so many other schools, Cincinnati offers marketing as a concentration area within an MBA. Students take 26 credit hours of program courses and up to six electives (for 12 credit hours) in marketing. The curriculum offers eight courses in marketing, including Marketing for Managers, Systematic Innovation Tools, Buyer Behavior, New Product Development, and others. All of it concludes with a capstone project, where students “demonstrate competency in applying both the strategy and functional course concepts and tools in an integrative experience,” though what exactly that means isn’t clear.

The MBA program itself requires 38 credit hours, though the coursework can jump to 48 credit hours if students need to take 10 hours of business foundations courses. Those can be waived if they have “demonstrated previous undergraduate coursework,” which an enrollment advisor can verify. Speaking of enrollment, it’s the usual stuff: a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a B grade average, GMAT/GRE scores or a waiver (earned via professional experience and having another degree or CPA certification), resume, goal statement, letters of recommendation, and transcripts.

Like Washington State University above, the University of Cincinnati assesses admissions “in a holistic manner,” such as “academic and professional achievement, strong communication skills, and a proven track record of leadership.” Applicants who don’t quite clear all of the hurdles may still earn conditional admittance. Once in, the program can be completed in only one year, though probably longer if foundational courses are involved. Expect to spend $20,085 per academic year, which in this case may just be one.

Coursework is completed via Blackboard, and the university offers several tutorials online to understand how the process works. There are also videos providing general guidance on topics like instructor expectations, time management, distance learning myths, and that annoying portmanteau, netiquette. Online students also have a variety of library resources at their fingertips, including librarians specializing in certain subjects, specialized guides—the business one has 73 different topics—and instructions on finding scholarly and peer-reviewed articles. The university also offers Enrollment Services Advisors and Student Success Coordinators to assist with admissions and course selection, respectively, in what U. of C. calls “start-to-graduation support.”

#10. Golden Gate University

Master of Science in Marketing

Where many programs on this list limit their marketing curriculum to a concentration within a broader degree, San Francisco’s Golden Gate University offers discrete marketing concentrations within its MS in marketing. The whole degree is geared toward marketing, with three specialty areas within it: digital marketing, marketing analytics, and a bespoke “individualized concentration” created by the student and advisor, perhaps in brand management, PR, or integrated marketing communications, as the school suggests.

The point is that Golden Gate University devotes all of the attention in its program to marketing itself, and for a field as vast and nuanced as marketing, that’s a good thing. The school also keeps admission requirements minimal: Prospective students need a bachelor’s degree and the right skills—beyond the proficiency basics, they also need the “quantitative, writing, and computing skills” and “academic and professional capability” to hack it on the graduate level.

What are the proficiency basics? Golden Gate lists three areas: business, math, and writing. The business one requires knowledge of U.S. business practices, math needs a skill level commensurate with GGU’s Intermediate Algebra course, and the writing one requires a Graduate Writing Placement Exam. In it, students have to read an article and write a multi-paragraph response. Students with a high GRE or GMAT score can earn a waiver for the test, though.

The program itself requires 39 units to graduate: nine from foundation (Fundamentals of Business, Professional Skills for Business, Data Analysis for Managers), 18 from core courses (Marketing Management, Consumer Behavior, Digital Marketing & eCommerce, etc.), and 12 from a concentration (six from concentration classes, six from electives). The program ends with a Marketing Strategy & Planning capstone, a research course that uses case studies for planning long-range market development. GGU’s program really shines in the concentrations, though. Digital marketing is a good one because it’s one of the fastest growing areas of marketing globally.

The curriculum, based on two of three possible courses, studies search engine marketing, web and social network analytics, social media marketing, and e-commerce. Marketing analytics dives deeper into the data with its two classes: Advanced Statistical Analysis with R & Python, and Web & Social Network Analytics. What goes into the individualized concentration depends on the student’s interests and career goals, but it offers a way to further specialize their MS for maximum impact after graduation.

Whatever track students take, they can expect to have at least eight learning outcomes, which GGU outlines on its site, including obtaining and applying insights into consumer behavior, using research for marketing purposes, demonstrating analytical and problem-solving skills for making marketing decisions, and much more. The school has 19 faculty members devoted to marketing and public relations, so students draw from a wealth of experience during their studies. Because this is a fairly new program for GGU, we don’t have enough information to calculate a net cost for it, so we’ll stick to the basic tuition number: $18,900, which is about $1,000 more than the average and median cost for programs on this list.

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS

#11. University of Saint Mary

Location: Leavenworth, KS

Degree: Master of Business Administration – Marketing and Advertising Concentration

Net Price: $20,558

Website

#12. University of Massachusetts – Amherst

Location: Amherst, MA

Degree: Master of Business Administration – Marketing Concentration

Net Price: $21,740

Website

#13. Wichita State University

Location: Wichita, KS

Degree: Master of Business Administration – Marketing

Net Price: $14,256

Website

#14. Saint Joseph’s University

Location: Philadelphia

Degree: Master of Science in Marketing

Net Price: $35,344

Website

#15. Bellevue University

Location: Bellevue, NE

Degree: Master of Science in Strategic Marketing

Net Price: $9,635

Website

#16. LaSalle University

Location: Philadelphia

Degree: Master of Business Administration, Marketing Specialization Online

Net Price: $24,473

Website

#17. West Virginia University

Location: Morgantown, WV

Degree: Master of Science in Data Marketing Communications

Net Price: $12,181

Website

#18. University of North Carolina

Location: Chapel Hill, NC

Degree: Master of Business Administration, Marketing concentration

Net Price: $11,649

Website

#19. St. Bonaventure University

Location: Bonaventure, NY

Degree: Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $21,613

Website

#20. Saint Leo University

Location: Saint Leo, FL

Degree: Master of Business Administration – Marketing

Net Price: $20,036

Website

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLE ON EARNING AN ONLINE MBA (EVEN WITHOUT A BACHELOR’S DEGREE IN BUSINESS).

Getting an MBA is a smart choice. After all, there’s no better way to build your skills in leadership, management, and finance. 

But an MBA in information systems? That’s an even smarter choice, especially if you already have the technical skills to back up your business chops.

The ideal candidate for an MBA in information systems management will be one that wants to pursue a career combining management and technology. In one of these degrees, you’ll gain the skills in information technology, management theories, and business topics necessary to make a difference in a fast-paced and technologically-focused business world. 

Not only that, but one of these degrees will also help you build your skills in marketing, finance, hardware, software, and human resources. 

Whether you choose to pursue a degree online or on-campus, you’ll find that the best MBA in information systems degrees are those that provide you with a quality, customizable curriculum and access to numerous networking opportunities. After all, there’s no better way to secure a job after graduation than to prove that you have the skills and experiences necessary to back up the credentials and credits listed on your transcript.

When you choose to pursue an MBA in information systems management, you’ll have plenty of career opportunities upon graduation. You will have the skills necessary to execute, design, and oversee information systems in all kinds of organizations, helping businesses drive their strategic planning process and to implement long term change.

What kinds of classes will you take? That largely depends on the university you ultimately decide to attend, but common courses include things like Financial Decision Making, Database Systems, and Project Management. If you choose to study full-time, it will likely take you around two years to complete your degree (or around 36 credit hours). Choose to study part-time, an option for most of these programs, and you’ll add a couple of years to your plan of study.

Not sure what to look for in a degree? You’ll want to consider your personal goals and professional aspirations as you complete your applications, but there are a few solid indicators of a quality program.

For starters, you’ll want to choose a degree that’s taught by qualified faculty members with expertise in a wide variety of research areas. Make sure your degree provides you with plenty of opportunities to build your resume and portfolio, too, with things like study abroad, internships, and research opportunities. A strong, robust alumni network is essential, as are plenty of career-building extracurricular activities on campus.

Looking at the rankings can help, too. Programs that are highly ranked by organizations such as the U.S. News & World Report, The Wall Street Journal, and The Princeton Review are always safe bets as well. These publications know what to look for in a quality degree!

Of course, you can always just take our word for it—and consider this list of the 30 Best MBA in Information Systems degrees.

Related: Best Online MBA in Information Systems

Common Application and Admission Questions

Finding the right MBA in information systems can be challenging. Of course, you’ll want to consider both your academic and career goals (as well as any logistical or financial constraints) before selecting a program of study. 

For instance, you might want to consider how long your program will take and the whether you can study remotely. If you’re already working full-time, this is an important factor that will likely come into play in your decision-making process. 

You’ll want to research what kinds of opportunities each program provides in preparing you for life after the MBA, too. Does the degree include opportunities for research? Study abroad? What about internships? In many cases, reading past students’ reviews of the program and chatting with program alumni about these opportunities can be hugely beneficial. 

No matter which school you decide to attend—and for whatever reason—it’s important that you choose a degree that is accredited. Accreditation will indicate that a program is of rigorous academic quality and that there are financial aid opportunities available to you. Plus, enrolling in a program that is accredited will make it much easier for you to transfer credits later, if you desire. 

While there are numerous agencies that accredit schools around the country, including the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, it might also be beneficial for you to consider a degree that is accredited by a business-specific organization, like the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. 

Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential schools, it’s time to polish up that resume and start working on your application. Most schools now require students to submit online applications, which you can find by visiting their admissions websites. You will likely need to pay an application fee and submit several supporting documents, including transcripts from any schools you have attended, a resume, a personal statement, and potentially GMAT or GRE test scores. Often, letters of recommendation from professionals who know you well will also be required. 

It can be tough to narrow down your list of options, but avoid the temptation to apply to dozens of different schools. After all, this can get expensive, and it will only lead to decision fatigue later on down the road. Instead, pick just three or four programs you think are well-suited to your goals and aptitudes. 

Keep in mind that most programs will require a bachelor’s degree. Often, you won’t be asked to have already earned a bachelor’s degree in a business- or tech-related area, but you may need to meet minimum GPA requirements. The country’s top business schools require a GPA of around 3.5, while others will only require a GPA of 3.0. 

Again, GMAT or GRE scores aren’t always required, nor are they the only indicator of your suitability for a program. Admissions officials will often look at other aspects of your application, such as professional experience, instead. This strengthens your application quite a bit. The more well-rounded your application, the better.

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

Paying for any kind of college degree isn’t easy, and chances are, you’re wondering how you’re going to make it work. Unless you’re lucky enough to be a multimillionaire (if you are, let us know your secret!) then you will likely want to choose a program that provides the opportunity for you to apply to scholarships and other kinds of financial aid.

Before you get too carried away, take a look at the overall cost of the degree. Don’t just rely on the university’s “sticker price,” either (this is a common term for the advertised price of tuition and fees). While public universities generally boast lower tuition rates than private institutions, that doesn’t always mean it will cost you less money to attend a state school.

That’s because private universities are often able to make up for higher tuition costs with additional financial aid. Before you start crossing schools off your list because you think they might be too expensive for you to attend, do your research.

Your first step? Completing the FAFSA. Also known as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, this is likely a document that you also completed prior to enrolling in undergraduate study. This form, available January 1 of the year you intend to start school, will calculate your eligibility for financial aid based on a variety of factors related to your income. You’ll be asked to supply financial documents and information from things like W2s and tax returns. 

Once that form is complete, it will be easier for federal and state entities to determine your eligibility for need-based financial aid (such as grants and loans). This information will also be analyzed by the university you choose to attend, who will notify you of any additional awards you might qualify for. 

Don’t get discouraged if you don’t qualify for much (or any) need-based aid. There’s a good chance you can apply for institutional aid, too. Most schools offer merit-based scholarships and there are hundreds of MBA-specific awards you can apply for, too.

Don’t overlook outside sources of financial aid, either. Thousands of private organizations (like churches, civic organizations, and others) offer scholarships to enterprising young applicants like yourself. The reality is that many of these monies go unawarded each year, simply because nobody takes the time to apply. Don’t let that happen!

Even your employer can be helpful when it comes to paying for your MBA in information systems. Many offer tuition reimbursement plans that will pay for all or some of your higher education expenses (generally in return for a set work agreement). 

Be diligent in your search for financial aid and leave no stone unturned. Trust us, it pays off—while an MBA will often pay for itself, it doesn’t make sense to take out thousands of dollars in student loans if there are ways to get that tuition paid for free. 

How Much Can I Make With an MBA in Information Systems? 

As you might expect, your career opportunities after earning an MBA in information systems will be incredibly diverse. As a result, your anticipated salary will vary, too. Don’t worry, though—these are some of the best-paid positions in the nation.

One of the most common jobs for MBA in information systems graduates is as a computer and information systems manager. In this kind of job, you will manage and lead an organization’s computer-related activities. You might work to assess the organizations’ specific technological needs and make sure the computer systems adequately fulfill them. You can expect to earn a salary of $146,000 or more—plus, this job is in high-demand with a projected growth rate of 10%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Have a knack for research—and interested in being a lifelong learner? If so, you may want to consider a career as a computer and information research scientist. A position in this field will require you to constantly be on the lookout for solutions and unique approaches to computer technology. These jobs are even more in demand, expected to grow by about 15% by 2029—and with top earners bringing in over $122,000 each year. 

You could also work as a computer network architect. You’ll be involved in the creation of data communication networks, like local area networks and Intranets. You’ll gain the skills necessary to develop small and large networks alike—and earn an average salary of $112,000 or more. 

When you earn an MBA in information systems, you’ll acquire the skills and expertise necessary to work in a variety of industries. While salaries are high across the board, average earnings tend to be significantly higher for those who work for employers like insurance carriers, computer systems designers, telecommunications, and educational services. Many professionals will go on to work for governmental entities, too.

Why are these jobs in such high demand? For one, the demand for professionals with skills in information systems is expected to explode as companies work to design, build, and expand new and existing computer networks. The adoption of cloud computing is also likely to drive the demand for information systems professionals. Of course, with an MBA, you’ll also gain transferable skills in things like leadership and communication, both of which are essential for success in any field. 

Of course, with all of these careers, your best bet is to pursue advanced training. When you earn a master’s degree, you’ll equip yourself with the skills and credentials necessary to pursue some of the best paid and most in-demand positions in the country. 

An undergraduate degree is fine in many entry-level positions, but if you really want to take your career to the next level, only a master’s degree will do. An MBA in information systems will provide you with the technical training and leadership development opportunities that you need to guide a team of like-minded professionals to success.

What Are the Best MBA in Information Systems Degrees?

We know that you have educational goals that you’re itching to pursue, but you may not know where to start. The editors of Master’s Programs Guide utilize a unique ranking methodology based on the following five aspects:

25% Overall Degree Affordability: Average cost of undergraduate and graduate tuition per school

25% Graduation Rate: Number of students who start at the university and actually finish there

20% Earnings Potential: Average mid-career salary of school alumni

20% Selectivity: The number of students who apply versus the number who actually get accepted

10% Online Graduate Offerings: The number of programs offered online in each department

At Master’s Programs Guide, we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one, and we want to help you reach your goals.

#1. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Information Systems Specialization for Students in the Master’s of Business Administration

With 50,000 students and nearly 500,000 living alumni around the world, the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities has a global focus on education that makes it one of the best places to earn an MBA.

Not only will you have extensive opportunities to network with other aspiring business professionals, but you’ll also have the ability to study at one of the most prestigious public research universities in the nation (and at Minnesota’s only land-grant university, to boot). This school is home to faculty who are at the top of their class in research and scholarly contributions. In fact, the faculty here are known for life-changing developments and inventions such as multiple cancer therapies, the pacemaker, and more. 

The Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities offers several different concentrations as part of its Master of Business Administration program. In addition to information systems, the school offers concentrations in consulting, accounting, entrepreneurship, general management, human resources management, finance, marketing, international business, organizational behavior, production/operations management, portfolio management, public policy, and more. 

Of course, the full-time MBA is not the only option that aspiring information systems professionals have to choose from. The Carlson School also offers a part-time MBA, an executive MBA, and a Ph.D. program. There are also specialized programs in fields like taxation, human resources, and accounting. Joint degrees are also available. 

The information systems specialization is ranked within the top five in the country for information systems, according to the U.S. News & World Report. As part of this program, you’ll be able to explore the impact that communication and information technologies have on both business and society. You’ll gain the skills you need to manage information technology in the creation of effective organizations. 

A highly affordable program, this degree features tuition that starts at just $40,176 for in-state students. With a more than 96% employment rate just 90 days after graduation, that kind of return on investment simply can’t be overlooked.  

Why are employment rates so high? The reasons behind these stellar statistics are multifaceted, but one major reason is that experiential learning is at the heart of this degree design. Here, students will have the opportunity to encounter and solve real-world business problems as they participate in global projects. Students can engage in four different “Enterprise” programs, including Consulting, Funds, Ventures, and Brands, enabling them to create solutions for real clients. 

The degree also has a global focus that requires all graduate students to participate in international experiences. Also known as the Global Discovery Program, this international experience enables students to explore topics with worldwide impacts and then embark on two-week adventures abroad. 

Of course, the professional connections you’ll be privy to at Carlson can’t be overlooked, either. When you enroll at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, you’ll become part of a decades-old tradition and a strong alumni network that’s more than 50,000 strong. Alumni are found in 95 countries and faculty are ranked third best for their intellectual contributions in business among other U.S. public universities.

#2. University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS)

If you’re going to study business, you might as well do it in one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, right? At the University of Washington-Seattle, you’ll have access to countless global firms, including Amazon, Microsoft, and Starbucks. 

That’s just one reason why studying at the University of Washington-Seattle’s Michael G. Foster School of Business is a smart choice. Here, you’ll benefit from an MBA that features multiple concentrations, including those in international business, manufacturing and technology management, leadership, finance, economics, production/operations management, and—you guessed it—information systems. 

You’ll have access to some of the best hands-on opportunities while studying in the Emerald City. In the graduate program, you’ll focus on the dynamics of leadership in business organizations and be able to meet and work with a core study team through the LEAD Week program. You’ll be partnered with just three or four other students as you complete a variety of initiatives and projects. 

In fact, collaborative peer learning is a core feature of this program. You don’t just learn inside the classroom here—you will learn from and with other business professionals as you complete rigorous team-based projects and engage in fun outings (like a guided hike of Mt. Rainier). 

This program is a one-year, work-compatible program that’s designed to provide an accelerated training in business and information systems management. You’ll take classes in subjects like cloud computing, data mining and analytics, and information security. A STEM-designated program, it blends the best of both the IT and business world. 

The Master of Science in information systems is not the only option available to you. You can also choose from a full-time MBA, an executive MBA, an evening MBA, and even a technology management MBA. There’s also an accelerated global executive MBA, which focuses on global business and can be completed in a year or less. There’s even a Ph.D. for students who wish to take their training one step further.

You’ll pay affordable tuition that is less than $40,000 per year for in-state students. Not only that, but by graduation, more than 94% of all students have already received full-time job offers. This is due in part to the University of Washington’s extensive alumni network. More than 45,000 Foster alumni can be found all over the globe, with notable alumni including Andrew Brimmer (the first African American to be governor of the Federal Reserve System) and William S. Ayer, the president and CEO of Alaska Airlines. 

You can apply at any time, with classes starting each June. You’ll join a cohort of students that is no larger than 90 students and take classes during the fall, winter, spring, and summer semesters. If you have already earned an information systems degree from Foster within the last three years, you don’t have to submit GRE or GMAT scores. 

To apply, you’ll need to submit a resume, personal statement, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. A Foster statement of integrity, application fee, and video interview are also required. 

#3. University of Maryland

Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS)

Looking for a business school that’s one of the best of its kind? If so, you might want to consider studying at the Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland.

This business school is one of only 31 business schools in the country to house a Center for International Business Education and Research. This center was developed by Congress and is funded by the Department of Education with the goal of providing students with access to research and hands-on learning opportunities in fields like government policy, global entrepreneurship, emerging markets, and sustainability. 

To meet this goal, the school offers numerous facilities and networks to give students the relevant work experience they need—and deserve. In addition, you’ll also be able to embark on a ten-day or semester-long study abroad opportunity, if you so choose.

At the Robert H. Smith School of Business, you’ll find several different programs that are catered toward aspiring business professionals. Among them is the Master of Science in information systems. This is just one of many concentrations offered here—students in the MBA, for example, can choose from specializations in subjects like finance, e-commerce, marketing, production/operations management, organizational behavior, public policy, and more. 

The Master of Science in information systems will give you access to the state-of-the-art analytical, data science, and IT skills you need to truly excel in the job market. You’ll learn the best ways to manage data and how to use the latest analytics tools. 

You will also be able to take part in simulation exercises and case competitions as you build relationships with a diverse group of peers. For example, many students choose to apply what they learn to real-life business cases and to participate in competitions like the Google Analytics challenge.

Curious about the classes you’ll take? You’ll have some choice as you build your plan of study, but in general, you’ll be encouraged to think critically about solutions for real problems as you explore core concepts such as data visualization, financial management and analysis, business process improvement, and artificial intelligence.

You can choose between full-and part-time study (and there’s even an executive MBA available, too). As a part-time student, you have the option of taking weekend or evening courses in Baltimore or in Washington, D.C. 

Regardless of the option you choose, you’ll receive hands-on training in subjects like -e-commerce and financial trading, studying at one of the school’s many Netcentricity Laboratories. You can also access the Mayor’s Fund to gain experience in portfolio management and securities analysis, if you so choose. 

To be eligible for admission to this program, you will need to have taken courses such as statistics, calculus, financial and managerial accounting, and linear algebra. Applications are accepted in both the spring and fall and are reviewed on a rolling basis. 

To apply, you will need to submit an application fee, a personal essay, and a professional resume. A letter of recommendation and transcripts are also required. 

#4. Texas A & M University-College Station

MS in Management Information Systems

With a 94% job placement rate within 90 days of graduation, it’s clear that Texas A&M University-College Station has one of the most career-focused MBA degrees in information systems. But it’s not just that statistic that should encourage you to apply—these graduates also enjoy average starting salaries of $85,857.

That’s nothing short of impressive, but it’s not a surprise, given the Mays School of Business’ superb national rankings. This school is top-ranked by the U.S. News & World Report, and the master’s in information systems management is ranked fifth in the U.S., too. 

Consisting of 36 credit hours of study, this program’s required coursework is divided into three basic areas of study—business, management information systems, and elective courses. The degree is available as a stand-alone program as well as through a 4+1 pathway. Both require the same amount of credits and include four prerequisite courses. 

In this degree, you’ll take classes such as Advanced Database Management, Data Warehousing, Information Systems Design and Development, and Machine Learning, just to name a few.

Don’t think for a second that your opportunities to learn will be restricted to the classroom, either. In fact, when you enroll in this program, you’ll be able to explore a variety of experiential learning opportunities that bring you out into the greater Texas and global communities. 

For example, you will be able to build your professional network and gain vital on-the-job experience by participating in a professional internship. The Mays Business School’s Career Management Center can help you find an internship opportunity, and you can attend the MIS Seminar Series to interact with guest speakers from the industry and build your interviewing skills, too.

You might also choose to participate in the Business Information Technology Students organization. This student-led extracurricular provides students at the graduate and undergraduate level alike with opportunities to interact with industry representatives. You’ll be able to network with your peers as well as with industry and career professionals. 

Women in IT is another student-led organization in the Mays Business School. Most students, at some point in their studies, will also engage with the Center for the Management of Information Systems. This center is an active partnership between the Mays Business School and firms like ExxonMobil and Hewlett Packard. The partnership provides students at all levels with research assistance, corporate access, educational opportunities, and professional development experiences.

The program is a certified major within the U.S. Department of Education’s STEM initiative, meaning international students may be eligible to apply for a 24-month extension of their Optional Practical Training. 

Ranked as one of the top Public Schools by Forbes Best value Ranking, Texas A&M University-College Station offers learners affordable tuition and quality programs. A number of scholarships and graduate assistantships are awarded each semester. Though competitive, they only add to the value of this already top-ranked program.

#5. University of Arizona

Master’s of Science in Management Information Systems (MS MIS)

Already employed? Don’t worry—you can still pursue this management information systems degree at the University of Arizona.

Located in Tucson, AZ, the University of Arizona offers multiple online MBA and other business programs that are designed specifically for working professionals. You can study online or on-campus at this public institution. Featuring rolling admissions, the application process is convenient and can be started at any time throughout the year.

Best yet, roughly 97% of students who enroll at the Eller School of Business at the University of Arizona are already employed. You’ll be able to access classes on your own terms and on your own timeline, since all online classes are recorded and archived.

Convenient, yes. But is it still a quality program? You bet. In fact, this degree is one of the few to be accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. 

Plus, you’ll have access to a rigorous curriculum that is taught by the same faculty who teach on-campus in the full-time and evening MBA programs. Courses are offered in a unique carousel format, so that you will engage in eight-week sessions with six start dates per year. You can complete your studies in as few as 16 months or take up to four years to finish your classes. 

The University of Arizona has received top marks from numerous ranking publications for the quality, affability, and accessibility of its many business programs. Of note, U.S. News & World Report has ranked the Eller School of Business as one of the best in the country. The online MBA is particularly well-regarded, ranked as the tenth-best in the country as well as the sixth-best for veterans in particular. 

And let’s not forget the management information systems program—it’s ranked the best in the country among public programs by the U.S. News & World Report.

You’ll be able to choose a concentration or even a dual-degree option that meshes well with your unique career goals. Whichever you choose, you’ll graduate with an in-demand degree that will get you the job of your dreams. In fact, 92% of all students are placed in internships via this STEM-designated degree.

Internships aren’t required, but they’re completed by a vast majority of students who enroll in this program. These will enable you to build valuable workplace connections and to increase your business expertise.

Curious about what you’ll study? You’ll take up to 33 credits that will provide you with a high-level overview of information systems. You’ll also be able to specialize with a minimum of three courses from your concentration of choice, including Business Intelligence and Analytics, Security and Information Assurance, and Managing Business Operations. 

Core classes include Information Systems Analysis and Design, Eller Business Consulting, Enterprise Data Management, and Web Mining and Analytics, just to name a few. Before you graduate, you’ll also be able to complete a master’s project. This master’s project is required of all students and will enable you to work closely with an MIS faculty member to deepen your understanding of a specific aspect of the field.

#6. University of Texas at Austin

MBA in Information Management

Located in Austin, TX, the McCombs School of Business enrolls approximately 531 students each year. A public university, it’s home to a variety of in-depth graduate business programs, including the MBA in information management.

This program is one of dozens of different concentrations available as part of the MBA, including international business, supply chain management and logistics, not-for-profit management, and real estate, just to name a few.

The information management concentration focuses on creating talented business leaders who not only understand how to leverage IT to create value for customers but also understand the economic, financial, and strategic implications of IT projects. As part of this program, you’ll be able to articulate the value of IT beyond just IT itself. 

You’ll have access to all kinds of resources and experiential learning opportunities when you enroll here, too, including Sigma Fellows at the Graduate Business Technology Group. Of course, you’ll get the most value from what you learn in your courses. Although the degree is flexible, you’ll meet core curriculum requirements by taking classes such as Social Media Analytics, Managing Complexity, and Information and Knowledge Management. You’ll complete a total of 16 credit hours.

McCombs is also home to numerous centers and facilities that are designed to provide aspiring business professionals with the hands-on opportunities they need to be successful in the workplace. Several that are worthy of mention include the Center for Research in Electronic Commerce; the Center for Business, Technology, and law; and the Supply Chain Management Center.

You will also be able to participate in the Management of Information Systems Association, a phenomenal resource for students who are interested in careers in information technology. You’ll be able to connect with like-minded students and participate in a variety of networking events as well. 

The McCombs School of Business is ranked highly by the U.S. News & World Report. It’s stacked up numerous accolades, including a ranking as one of the Best Business Schools and for offering one of the best part-time MBAs. The information management degree is ranked third-best in the country, too, by the U.S. News & World Report—and fifth by the Wall Street Journal. 

Nervous about whether you’ll be able to afford the cost of a graduate degree? Yet another reason to consider studying at McCombs. The department offers several graduate student aid opportunities through the Information, Risk, and Operations Management Department, including various graduate research assistantships. 

To apply to this program (or to any at the McCombs School of Business), you will need to complete an online application with the University of Texas. You should also plan on submitting official transcripts and GRE or GMAT test scores along with three letters of recommendation and a McCombs statement of purpose. Applications are due each December for admission the following year, so make sure you plan ahead to have all of your materials submitted on time. 

#7. University of California-Berkeley

Master of Information Management and Systems

San Francisco, CA is a hotbed for business and technology—so it makes sense that the University of California-Berkeley, located near the major metropolitan area, would be an excellent choice in your search for the best MBA in information systems. 

The Haas School of Business at the University of California-Berkeley offers one of the best graduate degrees in business around. Here, you’ll be able to choose from a number of concentrations, including those in entrepreneurship, e-commerce, accounting, human resource management, and management information systems. 

You’ll benefit from extensive opportunities to learn both inside and outside of the classroom. You can work for major corporations like Visa or Google, or work with a start-up to build your portfolio in management information systems. 

You’ll be able to find all kinds of jobs and internships to supplement the quality-education you’ll receive at Haas. In fact, the Haas@Work program works to assign students to projects at local and global companies, making it possible for you to earn an MBA in as little as 24 months with the addition of these dynamic experiences. 

However, you don’t have to study full-time to earn a degree here. You can take up to three years if you want to take classes part-time (generally on Saturdays or during the evening hours). 

Regardless of the pace you choose, you’ll be able to take a variety of classes with a uniquely global focus. There are several research centers on campus, including the Fisher Center for Real Estate and Urban Economics and the Asia Business Center. Many of your peers are international, too, with about a third of the students enrolled in the business school representing other countries. 

A 48-credit hour program, this degree is designed to train qualified professionals with the skills they need to succeed as information professionals. You’ll learn how to identify user and stakeholder information and to address their needs. You’ll also learn how to analyze complex relationships that exist in policy frameworks, ethics, and technical design. 

A highly interdisciplinary program, the degree draws from other departments and will enable you to take courses in areas of interest. You’ll take classes in fields like cognitive science, economics, law, business, psychology, sociology, and computer science as you complete your degree. 

With four core courses and a range of electives available, this degree also includes an optional paid summer internship. This usually takes place between the first and second years of the program and enables candidates to put their learning into practice and build upon the knowledge they gained during their first year of coursework. 

You’ll also complete an in-depth final project. The final project is meant to serve as a culmination of the two-year program and includes options like research projects and prototype information systems. 

Graduates of this program are highly successful at finding jobs, with recent graduates serving as leaders in the interaction of people, technology, and information. Recent employers include the Library of Congress, the US Coast Guard, Uber, Microsoft, Apple, Facebook, and more.

#8. Arizona State University-Tempe

Master of Science in Information Management (MSIM) 

Despite being one of the largest business schools in the country—Arizona State University-Tempe’s W.P. Carey School of Business is home to 300 faculty and 1800 graduate students—W.P. Carey offers one of the best and most hands-on programs in information management around.

It serves as one of four options for earning an MBA on either a part- or full-time schedule. You can pursue online, evening, and executive MBA programs in addition to the Master of Science in information management. There are even Ph.D. programs and specialized graduate degrees in fields like real estate development, agribusiness, and taxation. There are event joint architecture, accounting, and law programs to choose from. 

Although it has a large enrollment, the school of business features full-time MBA courses that, on average, have fewer than 45 students each. You’ll be able to interact with your peers in an interactive way and to forge your own path as you explore a career in information management. In fact, in your first term, you’ll be required to write an individual development plan that will help you develop qualities as a leader. You’ll refer back to this plan as you complete your first and second year coursework and engage in summer internships.

The benefit of such a large school of business? You’ll have access to one of the country’s largest alumni bases. In fact, the W.P. Carey School of Business has more than 60,000 graduates working all around the globe to make a difference in the world of business.

A STEM-designated program, this degree features a curriculum that has been developed to help you meet your goals. You’ll enjoy a core curriculum that’s taught by faculty with decades of industry experience. Plus, you’ll benefit from their experience and research expertise in fields like cloud computing, tech consulting, and big data. You’ll be able to apply what you learn almost immediately as you engage in hands-on learning opportunities. 

With a rigorous core curriculum, the degree has multiple specializations that will allow you to develop your leadership skills and technical competencies. Core courses include Data and Information Management, Business Intelligence, Emerging Technologies, Strategic Value of Information Technology, and Information Security and Controls.

The information management program at Arizona State is ranked as one of the best by the U.S. News & World Report. It’s a 12-month degree that will help meet the demand for the more than 75,000 new jobs that are expected to be created in information security and information systems by 2026. 

To apply, you’ll need to do so by December for an early decision. Apply by completing Arizona State’s online application. If you attended the university as an undergraduate, you do not need to supply transcripts. Otherwise, transcripts are required. Other required materials include GMAT or GRE test scores and a detailed resume.

#9. Georgia Institute of Technology

MBA in Information Technology Management

Located in Atlanta, GA, Georgia Institute of Technology is home to the award-winning Scheller College of Business. Ranked as one of the Best Business Schools by U.S. News & World Report, Scheller is also well-regarded for its part-time MBA. Its information systems concentration is ranked as the seventh-best in the country, too.

Although much of this program’s prestige can be attributed to its small class sizes and superior instructional quality, it’s important to note that Scheller has one of the best locations for a school of business, too. It’s located in the heart of Atlanta, a city that’s home to numerous corporate giants like Turner Broadcasting System and the Coca Cola Company. 

In addition to the MBA in information technology management, the school also has a full-time MBA, an evening MBA, and a Ph.D. program in addition to countless other graduate degree programs. 

The curriculum of this program stresses an interdisciplinary approach along with a  powerful sense of community. You’ll be able to choose from a variety of flexible curriculum options and to focus on a specific area of business as you complete your degree. You’ll take eight elective courses that promote customization and collaboration.

While the exact courses you take will vary depending on your career plan, most students will take core classes and electives such as Managing Information Resources, Electronic Commerce, and Business Process Analysis and Design.

The Scheller College of Business will provide you with limitless ways to accelerate your progress toward becoming a well-rounded business and information technology professional. Whether you’re incubating a startup, adapting emerging technologies to business operations, or learning to lead in financial technology, you’ll be at the cutting edge of business education when you pursue an MBA in information technology management here. 

In most cases, it will take you less than two years to complete your degree. You’ll graduate with the ability to tackle challenging business problems in a tech-focused world. Throughout the duration of your studies, you’ll have access to multiple top-ranked facilities, including the Jones MBA Career Center. At the career center, you’ll have access to assigned advisors, on-campus recruiting events, workshops, peer mentoring, and even paid internships. All of these features and resources will help prepare you for the rewarding job of your dreams. 

The degree takes a unique global approach to learning, with MBA students required to complete at least one elective that has a global focus. You can also participate in an international practicum. This semester-long course will enable you to work with an international company as you solve real-world problems (and you may even be able to study abroad!). 

To apply, you’ll need to apply during one of five rounds of admission throughout the year. The program starts in August every year. You will need to submit a transcript from every college you have attended, official GMAT or GRE scores, two letters of recommendation, a resume, and the online application.

#10. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

MBA Business Mastery Plus Leadership Skills

If you’re looking for an affordable MBA to help you meet your personal and professional goals, don’t worry—you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg. In fact, the MBA at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is one of the most affordable in the country, with tuition starting at just $22,000 for the entire program.

This program is fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. You’ll benefit from course material that is inspired by real-life business practices and designed to be implemented in the real world. You’ll gain core skills in management and leadership along with projects that are globally-focused.

Offered 100% online, this degree is taught by a prestigious faculty that includes nearly two-dozen Illinois Nobel Prize winners. You’ll join a powerful alumni network of more than 470,000 students and pursue academic content that is actionable and business-ready.

As you complete your courses, you’ll be able to interact with senior professors and practitioner faculty from top companies like Google. Despite being entirely online, the program will enable you to connect with fellow students from around the world on a daily basis. You can complete your courses at any time of the day and even participate in faculty office hours for extra help.

As an online learner, you’ll have access to the same phenomenal opportunities for outreach and professional development that you’d receive when studying on campus. The program is structured so that there are numerous opportunities for students to meet each other, faculty, and staff. 

For example, iConverge is the university’s yearly on-campus networking and professional development event. It’s an opportunity for attendees to participate in panel discussions, live lectures, and talks, as well as to tour campus and connect to the larger University of Illinois community. 

Each year, the program also visited cities around the United States to give opportunities for students to connect at a regional level. At one of these “Micro-Immersion” events, you’ll be able to visit a company and connect the visit to a course via a case study project that’s based on the company. 

There are also numerous Global Immersions programs you can choose to partake in, too. These immersion trips are one week long each and will combine academic activities with a variety of socio-cultural experiences so that you can learn more about business and economics in other countries. 

The courses you take in this program will provide you with the training you need to help innovate and shape the digital world. You can choose from a blend of in-demand business specializations as you complete this degree, which has been named a “Breakthrough: A top 50 MBA for $20,000” according to Poets & Quants. 

To apply, you will need to submit an online application along with transcripts demonstrating an earned bachelor’s degree from any accredited university in the United States. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, as is at least three years of professional experience (ideally operational or managerial experience). GMAT or GRE test scores are not required but are strongly encouraged. 

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS 

#11. Georgia State University

Location: Atlanta, GA

Degree: Master of Science in Information Studies (MSIS) or a Master of Science in Information Systems Audit and Control (MS ISAC)

Net Price: $14,501

Website

#12 Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Location: Blacksburg, VA

Degree: Master of Information Technology – Business Information Systems

Net Price: $18,349

Website

#13. Temple University

Location: Philadelphia, PA 

Degree: MBA in Information Technology Management 

Net Price: $23,192

Website

#14. Florida State University

Location: Tallahassee, FL

Degree: Master of Science in Management Information Systems

Net Price: $13,318

Website

#15. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Location: Ann Arbor, MI

Degree: Master of Science in Information

Net Price: $16,856

Website

#16. New York University

Location: New York, NY

Degree: Master’s of Science in Information Systems (MSIS).

Net Price: $39,935

Website

#17. Missouri University of Science and Technology

Location: Rolla, MO

Degree: Master of Science in Information Science and Technology

Net Price: $13,994

Website

#18. University of Texas at Dallas

Location: Dallas, TX

Degree: Master of Science in Information Technology and Management

Net Price: $9,989

Website

#19. University of Pennsylvania

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Degree: MBA in Operations, Information and Decisions

Net Price: $26,266

Website

#20. Purdue University

Location: West Lafayette, IN

Degree: Master of Science in Business Analytics and Information Management 

Net Price: $10,195

Website

#21. Brigham Young University-Provo

Location: Provo, UT

Degree: MISM 

Net Price: $13,120

Website

#22. Carnegie Mellon University

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

Degree: Master of Information Systems Management (MISM)

Net Price: $30,847

Website

#23. University of Southern California

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Degree: Master of Science in Systems Architecting and Engineering – Computer and Information Systems Track

Net Price: $36,161

Website

#24. Stanford University

Location: Stanford, CA

Degree: Master of Business Administration in Information Technology 

Net Price: $17,271

Website

#25. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Location: Cambridge, MA

Degree: Master of Science in Management Studies (MSMS)

Net Price: $18,971

Website

#26. Drexel University

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Degree: Master of Science in Information Systems

Net Price: $36,727

Website

#27. Boston University

Location: Boston, MA

Degree: Master of Science in Computer Information Systems

Net Price: $29,154

Website

#28. Johns Hopkins University

Location: Baltimore, MD

Degree: Master of Science in Information Systems

Net Price: $27,868

Website

#29. Indiana University 

Location: Bloomington, IN

Degree: MS in Information Systems

Net Price: $9,371

Website

#30. Creighton University

Location: Omaha, NE

Degree: Master of Science (M.S.) in Business Intelligence and Analytics (BIA)

Net Price: $31,317

Website    

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE 40 BEST NO-GMAT ONLINE MBA PROGRAMS & 50 BEST ONLINE MASTER’S PROGRAMS IN CYBERSECURITY!

COMMON APPLICATION AND ADMISSION QUESTIONS

Teaching demands a higher level of commitment than many other professions. Those teachers who are ready to take their careers to the next level through a graduate degree program–like from our list of the best Master’s programs in Secondary Education–must be ready to devote themselves fully to the rigors of study and assessed teaching practice. 

As you know, every higher education institution has different admission standards, and so does each individual department and program. Because they are so challenging, graduate programs usually have a very high bar for admittance and competition can be stiff. That’s why it pays to spend ample time on your application. You must not only make sure everything sufficiently meets minimum program entry criteria, but also submit a package that makes the department stand up and take notice! 

Many students like to draft up three columns to write their options in—their dream schools, good chance schools, and safety schools. A safety school is one you’re almost certain to be accepted, whereas a good chance school is one you might prefer but has tougher standards. Those dream schools are the ones you’d love to attend but may be long shots. 

We encourage you to apply for all the programs you’re both interested and qualified for! Our list of Best Master’s Programs in Secondary Education consists of schools which are highly ranked and recognized as leaders in the education field. Some have more stringent requirements than others, and it’s imperative to review all prerequisites and other requirements very carefully. Pay special attention to any listed minimum GPA or test scores. 

There are other critical factors to watch out for, too. If the program asks for a letter of recommendation or resume, read their notes telling you what type of information they want to see on these documents, because they are not always the same. If you’re applying to different programs, odds are you may need to customize your letters and resume for each one. If that’s the case, it can be helpful to let your letter writers know about this in advance. In some cases, it can also be useful to draft sample letters for them, which they can then edit and add to as they wish. 

Perhaps the one document which needs the most custom tailoring is your statement of purpose. A resume or letter of recommendation speaks primarily about your past, whereas the statement of purpose is geared towards how you plan to succeed in—and contribute to—each specific program you’re applying to. You’ll want your statement to match up with what they’re looking for. 

It is beneficial to have colleagues look over your application materials. In fact, finances-permitting, it never hurts to hire a professional editor to review your resume and statement of purpose to catch errors and suggest ways to make them even more compelling! 

International prospects should take note of English language proficiency requirements, and keep in mind that certain programs deal with diverse linguistic environments. All applicants should be fully prepared to handle the academic workload of the programs they’re applying for. Sometimes students focus so much on getting accepted that they don’t recognize the full scope of what they’re getting into! Most programs are clear about the time-commitments needed to be successful, but if not, we suggest contacting a department advisor. 

See Also: 10 Best Master’s in Industrial Engineering 

WHAT ABOUT FINANCIAL AID & SCHOLARSHIPS?

Graduate degrees often lead to higher salaries but paying for those degrees is an obstacle for many students. Many teaching programs have such hefty time requirements that students can’t work during the programs. When your income is put on hold, this can obviously make funding even more difficult!

Student loans and need-based grants are offered through Federal Student Aid. They have a handy Financial Aid for Graduate or Professional Students brochure outlining the various programs offered, and their Who Gets Aid page list many of the specific eligibility requirements. 

The most crucial aspect of applying for any funding is to meet deadlines! It can help to create a tracker of some kind, using a notebook or spreadsheet, so you never miss a cutoff date. The Federal Student Aid site also has a handy Graduate School Preparation Checklist which lets you check off your “To Do” items.  

Graduate students may qualify for unsubsidized federal loans of up to $20,500. But before going that route, we recommend seeing what grants are out there before borrowing money, since grants don’t have to be repaid. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) site let’s prospective grad students apply for the options they’re eligible for and the schools they’re interested in applying to. After the FAFSA is submitted, a Student Aid Report (SAR) is sent to you showing your Expected Family Contribution, if applicable. Look this over and contact them immediately if you spot an error. 

All information is also sent directly to the prospective schools you listed, and they should assemble financial aid packages on your behalf for any federal aid you qualify for. Do not take this for granted! Call their financial aid offices and speak to them directly, to verify they received your information and to ask questions about any further actions you may need to take. Financial aid officers are beehives of activity, so be patient but persistent and proactive. Always take notes on who you spoke with and what they said. When possible, emails can sometimes be better, since there is a trail of communication and you may have a chance to work with the same individual, versus having to reintroduce yourself and your situation every time. 

It is recommended to ask about school-administered Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), as well. Every little bit helps! 

Federal Student Aid Pell Grants are mainly for undergraduate students, but there are Fulbright Grants, TEACH Grants, and Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants available. 

Most universities have dedicated pages outlining college-based financial aid options. And, specific for teachers, there are numerous scholarship opportunities offered by individual states and organizations, such as: 

• Funds for Teachers
• The Harry Passow Classroom Teacher Scholarship
• The Maley/FTEE Scholarship
• The Mathematics Study & Professionalism Grants for Teachers Grade PreK-6
• Segal AmeriCorps Education Award
• James Madison Memorial Foundation
• Knowles Science Teaching Foundation
• Teacher Professional Development Grants Grades 6-8
• ITEEA/FTEE Scholarships
• The NEA Foundation

Veterans and their eligible dependents can take advantage of their GI Bill to pay for college, and should contact their prospective school’s Veterans Affairs benefits program manager for assistance. If the university is part of the federal Yellow Ribbon Program, there could be zero out-of-pocket expenses for those on the Post 9/11 GI Bill!  

HOW MUCH CAN I MAKE WITH A MASTER’S IN EDUCATION? 

Now that we’ve looked at how to pay for going back to college, let’s consider how much it pays to go back to college! Not all degree paths will lead graduates to the exact same careers, naturally, so there is going to be a wide range of income opportunities to students who complete a Master’s in Education. We can gain some insights on average salaries from sources such as Glassdoor, which bases their figures on reported data: 

Per Glassdoor, the average salary reported by K-12 teachers is $40,795 per year, with a high end reported as $49,000. A Virtual Teacher may earn an average of $39,607 a year, up to $47,000. Special Education Teachers report an average income of $39,459 a year, up to $44,000, and Language Teachers reported $61,015, up to $80,000. 

PayScale establishes a salary range of $34,000 to $75,000 for secondary school teachers, based on 1,273 reportings. 

Again, these numbers represent reported salaries and do not breakout teachers holding advanced degrees, but it may be assumed that such teachers will earn within the higher end of the brackets. Salaries will greatly depend on the state and district where graduates work, since geographic location is a huge factor impacting salaries. Other factors include years of experience and the scope of responsibility and specific duties. 

The Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is another great resource for examining salary and other employment-related metrics. Their online Occupational Outlook Handbook listings for High School teachers states that the 2018 Median Pay is $60,320 per year, but this is with a bachelor’s degree. Per BLS, the highest paid 10% made over $97,500. Interestingly, it also notes that local secondary schools earned an average of $61,040, whereas private schools paid an average of $54,150. 

In 2018, there were 1,072,500 High School teachers, and BLS predicts a 4% job growth, which is roughly the same as the average for all other careers. However, they also note that teachers qualified in math, science, English as a second language, and special education will be in higher demand than others. 

The highest number of employees were in the states of California, Texas, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. The highest concentration of employees were in Missouri, Ohio, Maine, Arkansas, and Connecticut. New York and California teachers had the highest salaries, with averages of $85,300 and $80,510, respectively.

In 2018, there were 615,700 Middle School teachers, and they earned a Median Pay of $58,600 per year. The job outlook for this area is 3% growth through 2028. The highest number of employees were in the states of Texas, California, New York, Ohio, and Florida. The highest concentration of employees were in West Virginia, New Jersey, Ohio, Delaware, and Maine. New York Middle School teachers earned the most, at $83,490, followed by Massachusetts at $79,030 a year. 

The BLS Occupational Employment Statistics pages for each category feature specifics on state and metropolitan area profiles, employment numbers, and annual mean wages.

NOTABLE STATISTICS

A University of Pennsylvania study “Teachers Have It Easy: The Big Sacrifices and Small Salaries of America’s Teachers” revealed that 33% of teachers quit their job within three years. The rate goes up to 46% within the first five years. 

According to the Chicago Tribune, surveys showed that the military and teachers contribute the most to society’s well-being.

The pay gap between genders was once essentially bragged about, when the Littleton School Committee in Massachusetts proclaimed it was “poor policy to pay a man” to be a teacher when women were not only better at it but worked at “one third of the price.” Granted, this was back in 1849, but still!

Teachers across the nation continue to pay out of pocket for classroom supplies which are necessary but not funded by their respective schools. As one middle school teacher in New York noted to Business Insider, they paid “at least $500 to $1000 on supplies.” 

NeaToday noted that 94% of teachers used their own money, with an average of $479 spent per year for supplies. 

In terms of demographics, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the number of female public school teachers has increased from 75% in 2000 to 77% by 2016, and the number of White teachers dropped from 84% to 80% percent, while the number of Black teachers also dropped from 8% to 7%. Hispanic teachers increased from 6% to 9%. 

During the same period, the number of teachers with a post baccalaureate degree rose from 47% to 57%, showing a significant trend in advanced degree attainment.

Pupil/teacher ratios since 2008 have increased at public schools and were at 16.0 as of 2015. The private school ratio was 11.9 in that year. The average public secondary school class size in 2012 was 26.8 pupils.

There are many misconceptions about teachers, including working hours. When classes let out, this is not the end of the workday! Most teachers come early to prepare, work late, and take assignments home for grading. 

Per NECS, the average teacher in a public school has 14 years of experience and works ~53 hours a week. 

55% of teachers said they were unsatisfied with their salaries. Teachers in unions or education associations were significantly more likely to be satisfied.

During an interview with NPR, Linda Darling-Hammond, the president of the Learning Policy Institute, discussed the institute’s report which noted that half of all schools and 90% of high-poverty schools struggle to find qualified special education teachers. 

Darling-Hammond further noted that, “…1 in 5 teachers in high-minority schools and high-poverty schools is unprepared for teaching.”

Corporal punishment in schools is prohibited in most states, but still legal in 19 of them. 

Now that your mind is filled with notable statistics and trivia related to the world of education, and you’ve reviewed the application tips, notes on funding, and employment stats, it’s time to move on. So get out those notebooks and prepare to dive into our list of the Best Master’s Programs in Secondary Education in the nation! 

OUR RANKING CRITERIA 

We have a time-tested four-part formula designed for ranking the best colleges in the nation that we’d love to share with you. We prioritize four major factors: Earnings Potential, Affordability, Student Satisfaction, and Selectivity. Reliable research and well-harvested data are the main ingredients in our recipe for success. We don’t make recommendations based on personal opinions, or financial incentives. Our revenue and content are completely separate, and sponsored schools have no impact on our rankings. The only way to make it onto one of our lists is to have an incredible academic program! 

WHAT ARE THE BEST MASTER’S PROGRAMS IN SECONDARY EDUCATION?

We know that you have educational goals that you’re itching to pursue, but you may not know where to start. The editors of Master’s Programs Guide utilize a unique ranking methodology based on the following three aspects:

40% Potential Salary After Graduation: Average mid-career salary of school alumni 

30% Institutional Accreditation: Regional and National Accreditation for the 2019-2020 school year 

30% Overall Degree Affordability: Average cost of undergraduate and graduate tuition per school

At Master’s Programs Guide, we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one, and we want to help you reach your goals. For questions, comments, badge downloads, or data corrections, please feel free to reach out to us at editor@collegerank.net.

#1. UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, IRVINE

MASTER OF ARTS IN TEACHING IN ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

A relatively new member of the prestigious Association of American Universities, the University of California, Irvine, offers a dynamic and practical Master of Arts in Teaching in elementary and secondary education (M.A.T.) via their School of Education. With an emphasis on “Learning to Learn from Teaching,” grad students in UCI’s program explore exactly how their teaching methods can affect their own future K-12 students in the classroom. 

The 14-month M.A.T. can be completed with either a Single Subject Credential, for those wishing to teach math, social science, English, science, or art at the middle/high school level; or a Multiple Subject Credential, which preps candidates to teach across the range of elementary subject areas. 

Per the M.A.T. program’s homepage, applicants must complete certain steps before admission, to include: passing the California Basic Educational Skills Test, passing California Subject Matter Tests or a subject-matter preparation program in the content area, and obtaining a valid California-issued Certificate of Clearance or Substitute Teaching Permit. Lastly, applicants must have proof of a recent, negative tuberculosis (TB) test result.

The Program of Study offers options for Single or Multiple Subject Credentials. It doesn’t lay out the exact course load per quarter but does list a breakout of courses held. All classes must be passed with a grade of at least a B. 

An example of the dozens of course offerings throughout the academic year include: 

• Children’s Sense Making in Science
• Outcomes of Schooling/Student Assessment
• Culture, Diversity, and Educational Equity
• Teaching Physical and Health Education in Elementary School

• Curriculum and Methods for Elementary School Reading

• Teaching the Visual and Performing Arts in Elementary School
• Supervised Teaching in Bilingual Education, Elementary

UCI’s General Catalogue features full descriptions of each course. 

After coursework is finished, students must pass a comprehensive exam in their second Summer quarter, via EDUC 248 Understanding Teacher Agency. 

For students in the Multiple Subject option – during the first quarter of student teaching, they must complete full days, four times a week. During the second quarter, they’ll do five days a week. Single Subject candidates teach five days a week for the duration of a public school semester. 

To qualify for student teaching, candidates will be assessed by the quality of their academic output, professional conduct, and potential for success. Those unable to advance to student teaching will be considered for removal from the M.A.T. program.

To acquire a California Credential, candidates must also demonstrate knowledge of the U.S. Constitution, hold a CPR certificate, and pass a Teaching Performance Assessment. Once the basic credential is obtained, students can add more teaching authorizations later. 

Admissions requirements for UCI’s rigorous M.A.T. program include submission of the following: 

• official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
• a bachelor’s degree and a minimum GPA of 3.0 (see notes on the program’s page for important details)
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores
• statement of purpose
• three letters of recommendation showing ability to pursue graduate-level studies, ability to work with children, and fitness for the teaching environment

At the University of California, Irvine, students have ample opportunity to decompress after putting in a hard day of student and teaching. The Claire Trevor School of the Arts offers an abundance of art, music, theater, and dance options to partake in. 

There’s also a wide range of men and women’s athletics programs, including basketball, baseball, volleyball, water polo, track and field, tennis, soccer, and more! UCI prides itself in strong alumni networks as well, including the Anteater Network and Student Alumni Association. 

#2. UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN – PLATTEVILLE

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN EDUCATION 

The University of Wisconsin in historic Platteville is a comprehensive university belonging to one of the country’s largest public education systems! By combining a small college town atmosphere with the financial resources of a renowned educational behemoth, UW-Platteville can stand truly unique among peers as an educational leader!

Their Master of Science in Education gives students the foundation necessary to craft practical lessons while learning how to engage in diverse school environments using modern instructional methods. Students also dive into research methodology as well as practicing leadership and mentoring. 

With small student/faculty ratio averages—20:1—learners are given the individualized attention they need to succeed as they progress through the milestones of the program. Courses can be taken in the evenings, on weekends, and over the summer, allowing for maximum flexibility for those with hectic schedules. 

Degrees may be customized to the desires and career goals of every student through three area focuses: 

• K-12 
• Adult education
• Counseling

The first option, K-12, focuses on the development of skills in research, instruction, and leadership for those planning to teach at elementary, middle, or high schools. This emphasis can lead to licensure in categories such as educational administration, reading, or cross-categorical special ed.

The second choice is adult education, which homes in on abilities such as designing, delivering, and assessing adult learning programs. 

Finally, students selecting the counseling focus area can learn about jobs within the realm of mental health diagnosis and treatment, substance abuse, and human services. This option is approved through the Department of Safety and Professional Services for the Substance Abuse Counselor-In-Training program. 

Applicants interested in any of the above options must submit a request for more information directly to UW-Platteville to receive full details about the degree program. For admissions, applicants must send in transcripts showing a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, with a minimum GPA of 2.75. International degrees are considered on a case-by-case basis. No more than twelve transfer credits with a grade of B- or higher will be considered. 

Campus life at UW-Platteville is lively, with over 80 annual events and 200 clubs and organizations. The school is also home to 16 NCAA Division III sports and the Pioneer Activity Center. 

Under the Division of Diversity and Inclusion are several offices dedicated to ensuring students from all walks of life are well taken care of. These include the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs, International Programs section, Student Support Services, Services for Students with Disabilities, the Wright Center for Non-Traditional and Veteran Students, and the Doyle Center for Gender and Sexuality. And with an alumni network of over 44,000 Platteville Pioneer spread out around the nation, the school keeps up strong ties with students long after graduation. 

Always highly ranked across the spectrum, one of UW-Platteville’s proudest claims to fame is its No. 1 in the state ranking for best Return On Investment. It also comes in at an impressive No. 24 in Top Public Schools on U.S. News & World Report’s annual rankings for 2020! 

#3. ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY

MASTER OF EDUCATION IN SECONDARY EDUCATION

As the No. 1 school in innovation rankings from U.S. News & World Report, ASU continues to set the pace for others to follow! So what better place to learn about innovative educational techniques than here? 

Students ready to tackle an advanced degree to boost their teaching careers should strongly consider ASU’s Master of Education in secondary education (MEd). Taught by the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College, the program is for individuals who want to teach in Grades 6-12, and is offered at ASU’s downtown Phoenix campus, Polytechnic campus, Tempe campus, and West campus. 

The program ties theory together with hands-on practice, allowing students to build a rock-solid foundation in teaching and content knowledge, learned from ASU’s expert faculty. Grad students should expect to complete diligent research via a culminating action research applied project, as well as finish clinical experiences and/or field placements which help develop a thorough grasp of how to take what they’ve learned and apply it in actual school settings.

The MEd in secondary education offers a teacher certification through one of three formats to select from:

• Master’s and Arizona Certification – the traditional format, where students attend class twice a week at night and finish field experiences once a week for two semesters, plus a full-time teaching experience in their last semester.
• Induction, Master’s and Arizona Certification – for students working on a teaching intern certificate and who have a full-time teaching job. Students will take classes once a week in this option, while enrolled in apprentice teaching coursework.
• Robert Noyce Teacher Scholars program – for U.S. residents holding a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) degree and wanting to teach middle school math or science. 

ASU’s MEd degree requires 33 credit hours in total, including:

• 18 credit hours of required core classes
  • RDG 507 – Content Area Literacy 
  • SED 501 – Introduction to Effective Instruction
  • SED 522 – Secondary School Curriculum Development 
  • SED 544 – Creating Classroom Climates 
  • SPE 555 – Inclusive Practices for Diverse Learners 
  • TEL 505 – American Educational Policy 
• 12 credit hours in the students’ chosen track (students are requested to contact the department for a full list of track course options)
• Culminating Experience of three credit hours, during which time students work with their instructor to develop an action research cycle and to evaluate educational research related to a problem
• SED 593 – Applied Project (three credit hours)

The Program Handbook offers details regarding program of study specifics, as well as details related to the individual campus offerings since the degree is offered in more than one location. 

Many engineering students take advantage of ASU’s accelerated program, which lets students work on a bachelor’s and Master’s at the same time through any of the following ASU engineering degree plans: Automotive Systems, Electrical Systems, Humanitarian Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Systems, or Robotics.

To apply for admission to ASU’s MEd, students need to submit:

• official transcripts showing a bachelor’s or Master’s degree in any field, from an accredited institution
• minimum 3.00 cumulative GPA in the last 60 hours of undergraduate work or 3.00 cumulative GPA in a Master’s (if applicable)
• three letters of recommendation from individuals who can explain the applicant’s potential for success 
• a personal statement outlining the student’s reason for applying
• a resume
• proof of English proficiency, for students whose native language isn’t English 
• no GRE scores required

Renowned as one of the top 100 universities in the world for research and teaching by Times Higher Education, ASU has been dubbed as their “New American University” for good reason. Apply and find out why!

#4. UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN – ​MADISON

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTION

If you’re passionate about diversity and learning and ready to effect real change as a teacher, then you’ve got something in common with the UW-Madison’s Master of Science in curriculum & instruction program! 

Graduates of this secondary education degree program will be certified in one subject area plus teaching English as a second language (ESL). This dual certification degree was crafted so graduates can go out and make the world a better place. By gaining skills and tools to become savvy classroom and community leaders, students will be ready for the challenges ahead in their future careers! 

The coursework is combined with amble community and classroom fieldwork, which necessitates full commitment over the course of an academic year plus two summer periods. As such, the school advises on their FAQ page that students pursuing the degree will likely not have time to work full-time while fulfilling the necessary, time-intensive program requirements. 

The four subject areas offered in the UW-Madison MS program are: 

• English
• Mathematics
• Science
• Social Studies

Please visit the pages associated with the subject areas you’re interested in, to review the prerequisites, as well as pertinent, teaching related certification topics. These pages also state the unique criteria which UW-Madison’s School of Education uses to assess each application. 

For example, one assessment question is, “Does the applicant show a genuine commitment to working with all children, not just the privileged or highly motivated?”

Sample course topics within the program include: Inclusive Education in Secondary Schools, Learning Second Languages and Literacy, Professional Launch Workshops, Digital Media & Instructional Technology, Legal Rights and Responsibilities, and Adolescent Development in Educational Contexts, among others. 

New MS students are only admitted during Summer term. The general Grad School application process involves submitting: 

• Transcripts showing proof of a relevant undergraduate degree (note, the relevance of the degree depends on which of the above subject areas the candidate selects to pursue. For example: for the science area, students should possess a degree in biology or a life science-related major, environmental science, geology, chemistry, physics, engineering, etc.)
• GRE scores (waived if GPA is 3.0 or more on the last 60 credits of undergrad work)
• A one-page statement of purpose 
• A Resume/CV citing academic and professional experience
• Two, but up to three, letters of recommendation 
• For international applicants, submission of TOEFL score 92/120, plus proof of funding

Note, UW-Madison’s program is highly competitive and offers in-depth specifications related to each of the above on the Applications Requirements page. The information is extensive, so we encourage you to review everything in detail. 

The 936-acre campus enjoys the spectrum of four seasons, with an abundance of indoor and outdoor opportunities for students to keep busy. The school, founded in 1848, has had 41 Pulitzer Prize winners and receives a truly breathtaking $1.2 billion a year for research expenditures. Both the school and town of Madison receive top reviews from students who love the area. In 2018, UW-Madison was the top producer of Peace Corps volunteers, and holds the No. 13 in Top Public Schools for 2020, per U.S. News & World Report. 

#5. UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI

MASTER OF EDUCATION IN EDUCATIONAL CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION (ELEMENTARY EDUCATION)

The University of Southern Mississippi, also known as Southern Miss, was founded in 1910 as a teacher training institution and has been a leader in that arena ever since! To help spread their reach, the school’s College of Education and Human Sciences has created an entirely online Master of Education in educational curriculum and instruction (elementary education). This part-time, 30-credit hour program is made to be finished in just three short semesters, allowing for an expeditious path to an advanced degree while also offering the flexibility needed for working students. 

To be admitted into the Southern Miss M.Ed. program, applicants should hold both a degree in elementary education and a current elementary education teaching license.

Students work with faculty and other students on action research projects which will benefit local classrooms and school districts in the state. Topics covered in the curriculum include learning about trends and policies in education, disciplinary and transdisciplinary knowledge, advanced practices, and enhanced communication techniques which improve relations with coworkers, parents, administrators, and even the media. 

Graduates leave well-equipped with the skills and experiences to succeed in teaching across a range of educational situations. Listed career options for holders of this degree include AA licensed teacher, teacher leader, and literacy coordinator/coach. 

The Southern Miss M.Ed. meets state requirements for advanced licensure and provides an optional endorsement in gifted education. Out-of-state licensure inquiries may be sent using the school’s Professional Licensure Form.

Courses necessary to complete the degree include: 

• CIE 606 – Teaching Language Arts in the Elementary Grades 
• CIE 691 – Research in Reading (up to 16 hours)
• CIE 724 – Elementary Mathematics Methods 
• CIE 725 – Social Studies Education in Elementary School 
• CIE 728 – Curriculum in the Elementary School 
• CIE 776 – Seminar in Early Childhood Education
• Plus twelve hours of advisor-approved electives 

To be considered for admission, students must submit the following: 

• Proof of a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.00 GPA for the last 60 hours of undergraduate work
• GRE or Praxis II Subject Assessment Examination scores
• Three letters of recommendation from education professionals able to assess the applicant’s suitability
• A statement of purpose outlining professional experience and goals
• A resume/CV
• Copy of current educator license (those without this license may be considered for admission on a conditional basis)

The General Academic Information for all Graduate Students page outlines the various criteria for staying in good standing, including the continuous enrollment policies, the minimum 3.0 GPA requirement for courses, integrity assurance training, the grading system, transfer credit policy, and several other useful tips relevant to Southern Miss grad students. 

Online students have access to several resources for online learners, including a full range of academic services, technical support with the Canvas learning platform, financial aid, and assistance with licensure, admissions, and class enrollment. Southern Miss has a proud alumni association, with amble career services and opportunities to connect with peers. 

The school is also home to the Golden Eagles and competes in 17 different Division I sports, and has been granted the prestigious status of being a Carnegie R1 research institution, meaning they have some of the highest research activity. That’s one more reason why the school lives up to its motto: “Southern Miss to the Top!”

#6. UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN

MASTER OF ARTS IN STEM EDUCATION

The University of Texas at Austin’s College of Education has been a forward-thinking leader in the field since 1891. With a motto to “Reimagine Education,” the college is greatly invested in the pursuit of equality and the elimination of educational disparities as they seek to determine unique individual needs and build upon existing strengths. 

Their Master of Arts in STEM education (which also comes in a Master of Education option) offers students a chance to explore STEM education from an academic research angle, working alongside faculty to investigate current issues in the field. Students can select to do a 36-credit hour thesis option or 33-credit hour non-thesis option. 

The general course breakdown includes twelve hours of core courses, nine hours of STEM-specific courses, six hours of research methodology, and three to six hours of supporting courses, depending on if the student is doing a six-hour thesis or not. 

Core courses are: 

• STM 385 – Knowing and Learning in STEM Education
• STM 386 – Curriculum History in STEM Education

Plus two classes from below: 

• STM 390-1 – Equity in STEM Education
• STM 390-2 – Research on Teaching and Teacher Development in STEM Education
• STM 390-3 – Systemic Reform in STEM Education
• STM 390T – Advanced Topics in STEM Education 

STEM classes must be taken at the upper division undergraduate or graduate level. Research methodology classes will cover design or quantitative/qualitative research, as approved by an advisor. The supporting classes are meant to both broaden and deepen understanding of work being done. The thesis, if selected, covers two semesters and will be completed in accordance with the school’s Format Guidelines. 

Students can view a sample Plan of Study with Thesis or Plan of Study, Non-Thesis online. 

As mentioned, a Master of Education option is available. To qualify, students must be certified to teach at the elementary or secondary level.

Admission requirements for UT Austin’s graduate program are:

• A bachelor’s degree
• Transcripts showing a minimum 3.0 GPA during the last two years of undergraduate work (note: teaching experience may be considered if GPA is less than 3.0). 
• GRE scores
• A statement of purpose between one to three pages, discussing applicant’s current roles, desired area of specialization, and future goals 
• A resume/CV
• Three letters of reference
• International students will submit TOEFL scores showing at least 79 on the Internet-based test (iBT), or IELTS scores with an overall band of 6.5 on the Academic Examination. There may also be a brief, no-cost English language evaluation 

UT Austin’s College of Education currently has 969 graduate students and is ranked No. 13 on U.S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate Education Schools list for 2020. It’s also No. 4 in their Curriculum and Instruction rankings for public schools! 

The diverse faculty department is filled to the brim with numerous fellowship recipients and prestigious award winners. And as for the University of Texas at Austin itself? The home of the Longhorns is cited as the No. 7 Best U.S. Public College by Business First (2019) and was Kiplinger’s No. 8 Best Value Public Colleges in 2018. There’s always something big happening at UT Texas!

#7. INDIANA UNIVERSITY BLOOMINGTON

MASTER OF EDUCATION IN ELEMENTARY EDUCATION

At 200 years old, Indiana University is doing better than ever! With over 94,000 students, including 8,500 international students, the institution is one of the most welcoming in the country, with over a 79% admissions rate! But hospitality isn’t its only special feature. IU stays on the cutting-edge of innovation, hauling in an eye-popping $604 million in external funding for research and other activities in 2018 alone. 

IU’s promise is to contribute towards the goal of building a brighter future for all. One of the leading ways it works towards that goal is through teacher education. The IU campus at Bloomington is host to several graduate programs in the field, including a Master of Education in elementary education (early childhood education track). Offered by the School of Education, this is currently a 36-credit hour, in-residence program for those with a teaching license in the same area and who want to advance their career. It’s also expected that applicants should hold a degree in early childhood or elementary education.

The M.S.Ed. builds upon existing experience to facilitate learning to administer early education programs, design curricula, and increase understanding of child development. 

Degree requirements include: 

• Major core classes in:
  • E505 – Organization and Administration of Early Childhood Education Programs 
  • E506 – Curriculum in Early Childhood Education
  • E508 – Seminar in Early Childhood Education 
  • E525 – Advanced Curriculum Study in Early Childhood Education 
  • J500 – Instruction in the Context of Curriculum

There is also a Foundations requirement of P515 – Child Development, plus an additional course in the history or philosophy of education. 

Next come nine to twelve electives which may or may not come from within the School of Education but do need to have a “unified focus” and advisor-approval. Suggested electives are in the fields of: sociology, library science, psychology, folklore, and language education. 

Lastly, students must complete their thesis in education and a practicum/Internship. 

Admission requirements for Indiana University’s M.S.Ed are: 

• A bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75 
• Transcripts
• A personal statement
• 2 letters of recommendation
• GRE scores are required from:
  • domestic students will a cumulative GPA under 3.0
  • all international students
• For international students: a resume and TOEFL score from last two years

Grad students will appreciate the school’s wide range of educational research centers which strive to serve educators throughout the state and beyond, as well as acting within the local communities by offering various important services to those in need. There is also an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) program designed to help individuals with severe language or communication challenges.  

IU Bloomington features countless student resources for academics, student affairs, international services, tutoring, military students, and IT resources. Cream and crimson-clad Hoosiers can enjoy over 750 diverse student organizations and 70+ clubs and intramural sports. And graduates can reap the professional rewards of being plugged into a massive global alumni network with over 690,000 members!

U.S. News & World Report ranked the School of Education at No. 28 on their Best Grad Schools in Education list for 2020, as well as No. 12 in Elementary Teacher Education and No. 13 in Secondary Teacher Education. With nearly two centuries of experience, it’s no wonder IU Bloomington is so far ahead of the pack! 

#8. UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

MASTER OF EDUCATION IN SECONDARY EDUCATION WITH PA GRADES 7-12 CERTIFICATION

Founded in 1740 by Benjamin Franklin, the University of Pennsylvania (also known simply as Penn) is a private Ivy League institution with historically tough admissions standards. But for those up to the challenge, it’s well worth it! 

The University of Pennsylvania’s M.S.Ed. in secondary education with PA Grades 7-12 certification may be a mouthful, but its unique Urban Teaching Apprenticeship Program (UTAP) is an invaluable means of learning the ropes in a practice-based format. Participants will discover the most student-centered techniques and innovative tools to use within urban environments, building on prior coursework while engaging in genuine field experiences. 

The 10-month, cohort-based teaching apprenticeship covers a whopping 800 hours of fieldwork – nearly double the amount of typical programs. Grads of UTAP can expect to come out empowered with the knowledge and skills to impact their students and schools while increasing educational equity. Certifications are generally done within the fields of English, math, social studies, and science. The student’s chosen focus area will dictate which of two concentrations they’ll be placed in – STEM Inquiry or Active Learning in the Humanities.

The first Summer term will focus on learners, neighborhoods, and community in Philadelphia. Classes will include:  

• EDUC 544 – School, Society & Self
• EDUC 554 – Building and Managing Collaborative Learning Environments in Urban Contexts 
• EDUC 540 – Introduction to Teaching Diverse Learners 

In addition, there is a requirement to complete 20+ hours of fieldwork in local summer programs. Sample programs and locations include: 

Neighborhood – Site

South Philadelphia – Migrant Education

Center City – Philadelphia Free Library

West Philadelphia – White Rock Church Community Summer Enrichment Program

Kensington – Gear-Up

The Fall term dives into curriculum and pedagogy within various disciplines. Courses include topics such as Developmental Theories & Applications with Adolescents; Teaching and Learning in Student-Centered Classrooms; methods in Math, Science, Social Studies and English; and Culturally Responsive Pedagogy. There is also more fieldwork, in the form of a year placement at a local public school during the mornings, serving as a student-teaching apprentice in Grades 7-12. 

Spring term focuses on PRAXIS or putting educational theory into practice as they build their Inquire Portfolio of projects. Courses during this term cover more STEM Field Methods for Inquiry in Secondary Schools, or Humanities Field Methods for Inquiry in Secondary Schools, plus courses in Advanced Methods for Math, Science, Social Studies, and English, and Teaching Diverse Learners. In addition, fieldwork at this point requires teaching five days a week. 

UTAP Students may seek to acquire dual certifications such as math and science, or English and history. They can also obtain additional certifications after graduation in language diversity or special education, by doing apprenticeships and working with partner schools, taking a specialty seminar, and finishing extra coursework during the first year of teaching, in some cases. 

After finishing UTAP, fully qualified students are eligible to receive program faculty recommendation for Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Instructional 1 certification. Please view the program site for a full list of requirements. 

To apply to the University of Pennsylvania’s competitive program, students should submit: 

• Transcripts
• A statement of purpose 
• A resume describing education objectives, interests, and background
• Letters of recommendation from persons who can discuss the applicant’s professionalism, values, character, and interests
• Note, this specific program isn’t listed as requiring GRE test scores, but double check with the Graduate School
• For international students whose native language isn’t English: TOEFL (iBT) or IELTS scores are required of applicants whose native language is not English.

University of Pennsylvania is ranked No. 6 in National Universities (tie) and No. 15 in Best Value Schools by U.S. News & World Report for 2020. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in America. 

#9. UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN

MASTER OF EDUCATION IN SECONDARY EDUCATION WITH TEACHER LICENSURE

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has been a breakout leader in education since its earliest days when John Milton Gregory, the first president, chose to root the institution in liberal arts traditions rather than strictly agriculture and industry. That spirit of intrepidness continues within the College of Education, through which Illinois offers several graduate programs, including a secondary education master plus teacher licensure (EdM). 

The program leads to a Master’s as well as initial licensure in English/language arts, science, mathematics, or social science/history in grades 9-12. The program main page lists breakouts for each available EdM option: 

• English Plus Teaching Licensure Master of Education
• Mathematics Plus Teaching Licensure Master of Education 
• Science Plus Teaching Licensure Master of Education 
• Social Studies Plus Teaching Licensure Master of Education

The English option, for example, has a content area courses requirement of either an undergrad major in English or 32 semester hours of specific language arts topics. Applicants’ transcripts will be reviewed to ensure these criteria are met. 

Admitted students will complete a professional sequence plan of study to include: 

• CI 401 E – Introductory Teaching in a Diverse Society
• CI 473 – Disciplinary Literacy
• CI 403 E – Teaching a Diverse High School Student Population
• CI/EPSY 485 – Assessing Student Performance
• SPED 405 – General Educator’s Role in Special Education (SPED) or SPED 517 – Disability Issues in SPED
• CI 404 E – Teaching and Assessing Secondary School Students
• EDPR 442 – Educational Practice in Secondary Education (Student Teaching)

Note: before beginning the student teaching portion, students must first pass Illinois-approved test of basic skills (i.e. the Illinois Test of Academic Proficiency, ACT, or SAT), as well as the Illinois Licensure Testing System (ILTS) English language arts content area test.

The Illinois program also maintains a strict GPA requirement of 2.5 for all content and professional education work and a Graduate GPA of 3.0. No classes with a grade lower than C can be used towards licensure, endorsement, or approvals. One final state requirement is the edTPA assessment. 

In addition to completing the above, EdM students will take two or three 500-level courses in education (depending on whether SPED 517 – Disability Issues is taken), and one four-credit hour foundational course on Education Policy, Organization and Leadership. 

Advisors can assist to ensure the plan of study includes necessary teaching licensure courses in Psychological Foundations in Educational Psychology and Philosophical and Social Foundations in Education Policy, Organization and Leadership (if not already built into the specialization curriculum). 

Application requirements include: 

• Selection of a specialization
• A personal statement describing professional experiences and prior academic work (minimum 500 words) 
• A Resume/CV
• Three letters of reference from persons with knowledge of the applicant’s academic/professional performance and potential for success in the program
• Transcripts showing at least a 3.0 GPA
• A content test in the appropriate area (note: it’s recommended to submit scores with the application) 
• International students have various criteria to meet, including English proficiency exam score minimums and proof of funding

Illinois is ranked No. 48 in National Universities for 2020 by U.S. News & World Report. Check out the College of Education’s 2018 Impact Report to see stats and goals specific to the department and read up on the faculty bios and latest research developments!

#10. UNIVERSITY OF UTAH

MASTER’S OF EDUCATION IN EDUCATION, CULTURE, & SOCIETY WITH SECONDARY LICENSURE

The University of Utah is the oldest higher ed institution in the state, and home to Pulitzer Prize winners, Rhodes Scholars, Nobel Prize recipients, Turing Award winners, MacArthur Fellows, and a pair of astronauts! U of U faculty consistently garner some of the highest honors and achievements in the world because of the total commitment to excellence! 

This same dedication is offered from their Department of Education, via a secondary teacher education program which gives students both the foundation and experience to excel in increasingly diverse classroom environments within the region. The program combines the secondary licensure program in the Urban Institute for Teacher Education (UITE) with a Master’s of Education in education, culture, & society (ECS).

Emphasis is placed on how to manage family and community partnerships, understanding urban contexts of teaching and learning, linguistic diversity, and creating equitable, challenging learning opportunities. The curriculum includes 58 hours towards licensure and six hours of approved elective credit towards the advanced graduate requirement (taken once licensure is finished), for a total of 64 program hours.  

Admissions criteria are listed on the program’s supplemental packet and on the Grad School admissions page. Requirements include: 

• An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher (see notes on the application page, if GPA is below 3.0)

• Official copies of transcripts from all colleges 
• A personal statement (note: there will be specific questions to address, such as, “What are some of your goals, aspirations, and research interests, and how will these help develop, enhance, and define the ECS department?” and “How do you envision contributing to and affecting social justice in education?”)
• A resume showing relevant experiences in equity and diversity in educational settings
• Letters of recommendation
• No GRE required

The UITE also offers graduate degrees in educational leadership and policy and world languages. Check out their faculty, honors faculty, and graduate assistants pages to learn more about the amazing department personnel you could be working with! The Teacher Education Licensure Data 2019 Annual Report offers valuable insights into the program’s impacts and success outcome rates! 

The campus is dedicated to safety and support, and runs several programs built to ensure all students are able to learn in a safe and welcoming environment. The University of Utah has a vibrant, diverse range of arts organizations for students to participate in and enjoy, such as the Utah Museum of Fine Arts, UtahPresents and Pioneer Theatre Company). In fact the Arts are so popular, they’ve created an Arts Pass to offer student discounts to the literally hundreds of art experiences around the campus each year. Sports fans have plenty to root about, too! U of U is also home to several men’s and women’s sports and Utes Pac-12 athletics. 

U of U comes in at No. 104 on U.S. News & World Report’s 2020 rankings. The school’s prime location in Salt Lake City guarantees that students will always have plenty of activities to engage in—from skiing, access to national parks, urban venues and shows, and NBA games, the city’s got something for everyone! 

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS

#11. Stanford University

Location: Stanford, California

Degree: Master of Arts in Education and a preliminary California Single Subject Teaching Credential Secondary

Net Price: $16,695

Website          

#12. University of Virginia 

Location: Charlottesville, Virginia

Degree: Master of Teaching Social Studies Education

Net Price: $15,945

Website

#13. University of Alabama in Huntsville

Location: Huntsville, Alabama

Degree: Master of Education in Secondary Education

Net Price: $14,190

Website

#14. University of Illinois at Chicago

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Degree: Master of Science in Teaching in Secondary School Mathematics

Net Price: $11,571

Website

#15. University of Washington – Seattle

Location: Seattle, Washington

Degree: Master of Teaching in Secondary Teacher Education

Net Price: $10,068

Website

#16. University of Wisconsin – La Crosse

Location: La Crosse, Wisconsin

Degree: Secondary Teacher Education Preparation

Net Price: $13,265

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#17. University of Mississippi

Location: University, Mississippi

Degree: Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction

Net Price: $14,678

Website

#18. Montana State University

Location: Bozeman, Montana

Degree: Master of Education in Adult and Higher Education

Net Price: $14,953

Website      

#19. University of Iowa

Location: Iowa City, Iowa

Degree: Secondary Education Teacher Education

Net Price: $14,161

Website

#20. Harvard University

Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts

Degree: Teacher Education Program

Net Price: $16,205

Website

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE MOST AFFORDABLE ONLINE MASTER OF EDUCATION PROGRAMS & BEST ONLINE MASTER’S OF HEALTH EDUCATION!

If you love traveling the world and want to enjoy a global, culturally diverse career, you might want to consider a degree in international business. 

With one of these highly varied degrees, you’ll be able to work in a wide range of sectors and industries. International business majors can be found working for all kinds of employers, including banks, recruitment agencies, technology companies, management consultancies, and more. 

While most of these jobs can be found in large cities, once you earn a degree in international business, you’ll likely find that you can work just about anywhere in the world. Most international business graduates work directly in business, finance, marketing, public relations, sales, or human resources. 

If you’re only just beginning to explore business school options, you might wonder whether an international business specialization is a better choice than a more generalized business degree. There are several advantages to choosing this kind of concentration. 

For starters, you’ll gain a competitive edge when it comes to hiring. As technology evolves and our global economies and governments become increasingly connected, it’s essential that businesses hire employees who have the skills to oversee global relationships. When you earn a master’s degree in international business, you’ll have the cultural understandings and diplomatic skills necessary to work for any government agency or business organization. 

This is because international business is simply business—but with a global perspective. You’ll be able to understand different geographies, markets, and cultures, and you’ll also be able to recognize the big picture when it comes to common issues (and related solutions) in business. Your unique global perspective will help both small and large employers alike understand that big picture, too, and to make important decisions for their businesses. 

To succeed in this fast-paced and ever-changing field, you’ll need to take classes in all the major skills found in core business programs. Your studies will consist of courses spanning topics like marketing, accounting, finance, economics, management, and more. You’ll study these topics, however, from various global perspectives via classes like economics of global behavior and international marketing. 

Not only will you gain proficiency in some of the core content areas mentioned above, but with a degree in international business, you’ll also gain a range of in-demand soft skills in things like teamwork, critical thinking, research and analysis, and problem-solving. 

When you graduate, you will be well-positioned for a multitude of careers. Your cross-cultural knowledge will enable you to pursue in-demand positions. Common job titles held by graduates include management analysts, marketing managers, executives, human resources managers, and policy analysts. 

If you’re already working and wondering what the best way to pursue one of these high-powered (and highly rewarding) careers might be, the answer is simple. You need to consider an online master’s degree. 

Not only will earning a master’s degree give you a leg up on the competition but earning your degree online will also lend you the flexibility necessary to study in accordance with your own busy schedule—and without paying a fortune to do so. 

See Also: Best Online International Relations Masters

Common Application and Admission Questions

Before you can complete a degree in international business, you’re going to need to find the perfect program. That sounds like an obvious step, but once you start delving into the dozens of international business programs out there, it can prove to be quite the daunting task. 

There are all kinds of international business degrees out there, but which one will be best in helping you achieve your goals? 

An MBA (Master of Business Administration) is almost always going to be the best and most direct pathway to help you get to where you want to be. However, you might also consider degree titles such as a Master of International Management. The title of the degree you apply for doesn’t matter quite as much as the courses you will take within that program. 

You should look for a degree that enables you to take a variety of classes in language and culture as well as your core business coursework. You might take classes covering topics like international banking and finance, international marketing, global supply chain management, and international strategic management, just to name a few. 

Most MBA programs will allow you to specialize in international business and management, along with other potential tracks. The best program in international business will be those that provide you with hands-on experience solving complex global business problems. 

You may also want to pursue a study abroad experience while you are enrolled. Although this can be challenging if you are studying online and have other life commitments to deal with, studying abroad will give you exposure to other cultures and countries—and this can be incredibly beneficial in this line of work. 

Application requirements vary depending on the school at which you enroll. Every graduate school is different, but in general, most schools like to see a couple of years of business experience along with a relevant undergraduate degree. 

That said, it’s rare to find undergraduate programs in international business, so most schools accept candidates who have any kind of business degree. Others are less stringent, requiring a four-year degree in any subject. As a general rule of thumb, you’ll want to pay close attention to your grades—most schools like to see a GPA of at least a 3.0 or higher.

Although not all schools require it, taking the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) or GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) can also boost your application. Some schools require a specific score. Other core application requirements you might see include proficiency in a foreign language and the completion of a personal statement or essay. Letters of recommendation are usually required, too, as is a detailed resume or CV.

Spend plenty of time perfecting and polishing your application. You only get one chance to make a good first impression! Most international business degrees are short, lasting only one or two years—so it’s worth taking the extra time now to make your application shine.

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

The cost of earning a master’s degree can, for many students, be intimidating. After all, you’ve already spent thousands (or tens of thousands!) of dollars on a bachelor’s degree—and now you have to fork out more cash to complete a master’s?

Earning an advanced degree doesn’t have to break the bank, though. You have plenty of options that will make getting a master’s degree both easy and affordable.

Your first step is to consider the school you plan on enrolling at. The average cost for a master’s degree program costs an average of $30,000 for an in-state (or public) program. However, this can vary widely, and it’s important that you consider not just the “sticker price” of an institution but also how much financial aid this school awards to its students.

Often, private schools can be just as affordable as public schools (or even more so) because they offer substantial amounts of financial aid. Read beyond the advertised tuition price and do your research to see what financial aid opportunities are available to students. 

Next, make sure you are applying only to accredited schools. Not only is accreditation important if you plan on transferring credits out later on, but it’s also vital if you wish to receive state or federal financial aid. Not all schools are accredited, and those that are not will not grant you eligibility for financial aid. This is a major deal-breaker.

Once you’ve figured out the right school for you, it’s time to consider your options when it comes to financial aid. Although many schools offer admission on a rolling basis, meaning you can start your program at any time of the year or perhaps at one of several times each year, it’s important that you complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as early in the year as possible.

The FAFSA becomes available in January each year. You will complete it in the year you plan to start school, using information from the prior year’s tax returns to fill out your documentation. For example, if you are applying to begin your degree in 2021, you would use tax information from 2020. You can use estimates if you haven’t filed your taxes yet.

When you complete this application, you will need to have certain documents on hand. Keep copies of your tax returns, W-2s, and bank statements to help you fill out the FAFSA. This application form will help determine your eligibility for state and federal financial aid. It might take the form of grants, loans, and even work-study. 

Although there is generally less federal and state financial aid available to students studying at the graduate level, as compared to what’s available for undergraduates, it is still a helpful way to source funds for your college degree. Don’t hesitate to fill this document out, even if you think you might not be eligible. 

Many universities offer additional awards beyond need-based aid, too. Look into the scholarships and fellowship programs available at your institution. These are usually available to both on-campus and online learners and are usually based on things like academic merit and relevant work experience. 

How Much Can I Make With a Master’s in International Business? 

Earning a master’s degree in international business is a smart choice—and not just because it will give you the skills and technical training necessary to pursue a rewarding career. 

Although there are plenty of intrinsic benefits to earning a master’s in international business, it’s impossible to ignore the more tangible benefits, too. For starters, the pay is excellent. You’ll have access to bountiful career opportunities around the world when you major in international business. 

Job opportunities vary within different industries, including finance, manufacturing, marketing, public relations, and more. Not only will you find yourself unrestricted by the seemingly endless list of potential job titles, but you won’t have trouble finding a job, either. By 2024, the Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates that there will be an 8% growth for new domestic jobs in business. 

The pay for these positions isn’t too shabby, either. The best-paying jobs are usually held by top international executives. You could become a CEO or COO, and although it will take some time for you to work your way to the top, a master’s degree provides you with the perfect amount of leverage. These professionals bring in more than $331,932 per year on average.

According to a Georgetown University study, professionals with master’s degrees earned salaries that were, on average, about $19,000 higher than those who only received bachelor’s degrees. International business majors in the top 75th percentile of earnings brought in well over $118,000 per year. 

Even entry-level jobs in international business hold great potential for graduates. As an international financial analyst, for example, you could bring in an average salary of $72,636. Many of these positions also offer the potential for bonuses, which can allow you to significantly increase or even double your earnings. 

A few other popular job titles? You could work as a general accountant or in international finance, the latter of which will allow you to earn an average annual salary of $103,260. You could also work as an international purchasing and supply chain manager—also a high-earning career with an average annual salary of $111,810. 

Needless to say, earning a master’s degree in international business is a smart way to guarantee high earnings. While you’ll need a fair amount of grit, hard work, and determination to get there, your hard work will undoubtedly pay off. And with all of the financial aid and low tuition options mentioned above, it’s easy to see that you will rapidly recoup the cost of a master’s degree in international business in no time. 

At least, as long as you consider one of the best affordable online masters in international business, that is!

What Are the Best International Business Degrees?

We know that you have educational goals that you’re itching to pursue, but you may not know where to start. The editors of Master’s Programs Guide utilize a unique ranking methodology based on the following five aspects:

25% Overall Degree Affordability: Average cost of undergraduate and graduate tuition per school

25% Graduation Rate: Number of students who start at the university and actually finish there

20% Earnings Potential: Average mid-career salary of school alumni

20% Selectivity: The number of students who apply versus the number who actually get accepted

10% Online Graduate Offerings: The number of programs offered online in each department

At Master’s Programs Guide, we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one, and we want to help you reach your goals.

#1. Liberty University

MBA in International Business

With more than 280 online degree programs alone, it’s easy to see why Liberty University is first on our list of the best online master’s in international business. Not only will you be able to take a wide variety of courses in this discipline at Liberty, but you’ll have plenty of classes in other areas to choose from, too.

Liberty is a private Christian university located in central Virginia, where all students are encouraged to follow God’s calling as they develop the skills they need to make a difference in the world. This school is an innovator when it comes to offering online programs. In fact, it was one of the first to do so, having offered online education since 1985 to both domestic and international students. 

With the online MBA in international business at Liberty University, you’ll be able to navigate all kinds of diverse business environments. You will develop a foundational knowledge of business that will prepare you with some of the most insightful international business practices. Through this program and its many hands-on opportunities, you’ll also be able to interact with various global financial markets and develop plans for marketing internationally, too. 

The degree is offered in a flexible online format that consists of 45 credit hours of study and takes most students just two years to complete. This accelerated timeline is due in part to the fact that all courses are chunked into eight-week segments so you can move quickly through the curriculum without getting bogged down in all the minutiae. 

You’ll be supported in your studies by a dynamic online community that emphasizes ethical decision making and Christ-centered business practices. Each student is mentored by a faculty mentor who will provide insight and personal guidance on the next best steps in the curriculum. 

Unlike other programs, this degree will prepare you to sit for the Certified Global Business Professional certification examination. Although this is not a mandatory requirement for international business professionals, it can be incredibly helpful in advancing your career. It will confirm that you have a certain set of knowledge in international trade necessary for you to practice global business at the professional level. 

Before you graduate, you’ll be required to complete the Policy and Strategy in Global Competition capstone course. This class can be completed as an intensive experience on the Virginia campus. You’ll be able to work with other classmates to complete a final project that will boost your confidence in your business acumen and job readiness.

Liberty has a reputation for success not only when it comes to its online program in international business, but across the board. The school is ranked as one of the Best National Universities in the U.S. News & World Report. This is due in part to Liberty’s affordability, but also its academic quality. Here, class sizes are small, with an average student-to-faculty ratio of just 18:1. 

#2.  The University of Alabama

MA in Management (Global Business Management)

The flagship campus of the state university system, the University of Alabama’s campus in Tuscaloosa is frequently referred to as “The Capstone.” Here, you’ll find all kinds of hallmark programs that have helped the school establish its reputation for academic success that it still has to this very day. 

Just 60 miles from Birmingham, the University of Alabama is home to more than 38,390 students. It has a highly ranked School of Law, School of Medicine, and School of Business. 

The online Master of Arts in management has a concentration in global business management that consists of 30 credit hours of study. Offered entirely online, this program will help you develop the essential skills in management that you need to succeed in global business. 

It’s the perfect fit for administrators, supervisors, coordinators, military personnel, managers, and other professionals who want to advance in their understanding and practice of global issues and management as they relate to a business setting. 

Through this program’s curriculum, you’ll learn how to manage complex global business operations as well as how to lead in an environment that is culturally diverse. You’ll also gain a broad understanding of the areas that are vital to succeeding in a global market, including accounting, international marketing, leadership, ethics, and finance. 

You’ll take a wide variety of courses in subjects such as Global Business, Leadership and Ethics, Effective Quality Management, and more. 

You can also diversify your training by choosing from a broad set of electives in topics like Advanced Import-Export Strategy and Supply Chain Modeling and Analysis. Each student will be partnered with a faculty mentor to help him or her navigate which courses are best for a given career goal. Unlike many programs, this degree does not require a thesis, so you’ll be able to get out into the workforce faster. 

The program is AACSB accredited, a designation that often serves as a benchmark of quality as it relates to business schools. In fact, fewer than 5% of all universities around the world have received this distinction. 

This degree is ranked tenth best in the country among online graduate business programs, according to the U.S. News & World Report. 

The accolades don’t end there. As a whole, the University of Alabama is regarded as a top National University as well as a Best Value School by the U.S. News & World Report. It’s also ranked as a top college for veterans, due primarily to its affordability, flexibility, and academic quality. Nearly half of all students here receive some form of need-based financial aid, with tuition rates at rock-bottom prices for in-state students. 

Tuition starts at just $420 per credit hour. Applications are accepted year-round, so you can apply at whatever time is most convenient for you. 

#3. Southern New Hampshire University

Master of Business Administration (MBA) With a Concentration in International Business

Southern New Hampshire is based out of Manchester, NH—but you don’t have to live anywhere near the Granite State in order to benefit from this school’s diverse course offerings. In fact, undergraduates here alone have more than 100 different degree programs to choose from. In addition to courses offered on-campus, SNHU also offers online degrees and evening and weekend programming. 

The online Master of Business Administration at SNHU is viewed as a “smarter way to your MBA.” Why is that, you might ask? For starters, this MBA has a whopping 20 different career-focused concentrations. Popular options include healthcare management, finance, business intelligence, and of course, international business. 

International business isn’t the only concentration that will prepare you to work on a global scale, though. The SNHU MBA also has concentrations in international finance and international supply chain management, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding the degree that meshes perfectly with your ultimate career plans. 

In addition, you can complete his degree in as few as 15 months with no GRE or GMAT test scores required. If you’re a transfer student, you can bring in up to 12 graduate credits, a third of the 36 required total credits. The program is accredited by ACBSP, the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, too.

You’ll learn how to lead and operate globally aware and cross-functional teams. You’ll also enhance your business skills and boost your marketability as you learn how to incorporate ethical and legal principles into major business decisions. By the end of your program, you’ll have completed a full business plan for an idea that you can then use to present to employers, investors, and companies. 

Other core courses include Business Environment, Innovations, and Entrepreneurship; Operations Management and Technology; and Government Impact on Business. You will also build vital soft skills, such as those in leadership, communication, and problem-solving. You will be able to complete all kinds of real-world projects that leverage your unique skills and personal experiences. 

As an online student at Southern New Hampshire University, you’ll have access to all of the same support services that you would receive if you were studying on campus. These include academic tutoring, counseling, career guidance, and more.  Classes here are small, too, so you don’t have to feel like you’re just another face in the crowd. In fact, the student-to-faculty ratio is just 13:1. 

Ranked the Most Innovative School by U.S. News & World Report, Southern New Hampshire University offers some of the best classes in international business along with some of the lowest tuition prices. You’ll pay just $627 per credit hour for tuition in the MBA program.

Nearly three-quarters of all students receive some form of need-based financial aid in addition to these low rates, making SNHU a feasible option if you want to pursue a low-cost online degree in international business. 

#4.  Oklahoma Christian University

MBA – International Business Track

Founded in 1950 by members of the Churches of Christ, Oklahoma Christian University is a private institution located in Oklahoma City, OK. With a reputation for providing high-quality academic programs, the school is also way ahead of its time when it comes to technology. 

Oklahoma Christian offers a wide variety of online programs. In addition, the school was one of the first to provide campus-wide wireless internet service (initiated in 2001) as well as a personal laptop computer to all full-time students. In 2013, the university’s programs were honored as Apple Distinguished Programs. 

Today, Oklahoma Christian offers dozens of online bachelor’s and master’s degrees in addition to several semester-long study programs abroad. Regardless of the program you choose or where you choose to study, you’ll enjoy the dedication and attention of more than 94 full-time faculty members. 

The MBA in international business at Oklahoma Christian University is offered by the Graduate School of Business. This school has two different business degrees—the MBA and the Master of Accountancy—along with a handful of graduate certificates. You’re practically guaranteed to find the exact program you are looking for. Most students take just 12 months to complete their degrees.

Class sizes here are small so you can get the most benefit from these instructors, too—in fact, the average student-to-faculty ratio is just 13:1. The Master of Business Administration at Oklahoma Christian University is one of the best. You’ll be able to choose from multiple concentrations, including those in finance, project management, leadership and organizational development, and of course, international business.

The international business track requires core classes in international trade and finance, international marketing, and international management. You’ll join your classmates from other concentrations in core business classes such as strategic management, marketing management, legal and regulatory issues, and business intelligence, too.

By specializing in international business and taking these other broad-based classes, you’ll be ready for anything your career throws at you. You can complete your degree entirely online or by taking night classes on campus.

To apply, you will need to submit your undergraduate transcripts and supporting documents (like a personal essay) for the semester in which you intend to enroll. If you have a bachelor’s degree in a discipline besides business, you may need to complete some entry-level coursework in topics like marketing and the legal environment and accounting and financial resources before you take your specialty courses, too.

Tuition is incredibly affordable. You’ll pay just $625 per credit hour with all books and most fees included. For a total of 36 credit hours, you can complete your MBA with minimal student debt. 

Choose to tack on a graduate certificate, and you’ll only pay an additional $1,000 for every three-credit course. Graduate certificates will add additional experience and credentials to your transcript and they can also apply toward an additional master’s degree, too.

#5. Texas A & M International University

Master of Business Administration in International Business Online

A public university located in Laredo, TX, Texas A&M International University is home to more than 7500 students. The school offers more than 70 degrees spread out among four colleges—no matter where your interest may lie, you’re sure to find the perfect program at Texas A&M. 

The Master of Business Administration in international business at Texas A&M International University offers learners a pathway that is affordable and convenient as they seek management roles in international corporations. You will study not only the many facets of global business environments, but you’ll also learn everything you need to know about international logistics and international management, too.

This program will also help you hone your soft skills, making you a more marketable candidate in a wide variety of fields. You’ll gain the leadership skills necessary to be successful domestically and abroad. With just 30 credit hours of coursework required, you’ll be able to get out into the workforce in as few as 15 months. 

An AACSB-accredited program, the degree covers the foreign and domestic perspectives that help to shape a global business world. You’ll learn about all of the social, cultural, economic, and political factors that impact global business decision-making, too. 

The program will allow you to expand your understanding of global business ethics, national environmental matters, strategic controls, and legal and regulatory issues. You’ll also learn about things like international transportation and warehousing, too—these unique topics aren’t covered in most of the other international business programs out there. 

You don’t have to have an undergraduate business degree in order to apply. You’ll be able to catch up via a series of helpful pre-module courses. These two-credit hour courses cover basic concepts like economics, finance, information systems, and more. 

Not sure that international business is the right track for you? The MBA at Texas A&M International is also available with tracks in international trade and logistics and international banking and finance, too. 

The program has flexible admissions with six start dates each year. The GMAT or GRE are not required for most students, and each of your courses will be broken down into convenient seven-week chunks. As a result, this program is ideal for working professionals who need to balance their professional and personal obligations.

This school is repeatedly recognized as one of the best by the U.S. News & World Report. It is regarded as a “Best College” as well as a “Top Public Regional University, West.” It’s also highly regarded by the College Affordability and Transparency Center via the U.S. Department of Education, which ranked the school sixth in the country for its low net-price. Tuition for the MBA in international business is just $10,074.

Its rates of financial aid awards aren’t too shabby, either. At Texas A&M International, 87% of all full-time students receive some kind of need-based financial aid. The average award is more than $7,000!

#6.  St. Thomas University

Master of Business Administration in International Business

Although St. Thomas University is now located in Opa-locka North, Miami Gardens, FL, its roots can actually be traced back to Havana, Cuba in 1946. Here, the university first opened its doors as the Universidad Catolica de Santo Tomás de Villanueva. Named after Saint Thomas of Villanova, the school dissolved in 1961, when Fidel Castro’s administration led the priests and faculty to journey to Miami. 

Here, they founded a Catholic college for men named Biscayne College. It became St. Thomas University, the school it is today, in 1984. It is home to 24 graduate programs spread out among the School of Law; the Gus Machado School of Business; the School of Science, Technology, and Health; and the Biscayne College of Social and Human Sciences. 

A member of the Florida Association of Colleges and Universities, the school offers a variety of hands-on experiences to students in all majors. Some of the most popular extracurricular activities take place on an international scale—the school has a variety of study abroad experiences in Israel, India, Croatia, Spain, and Italy.

That’s the perfect selling point for students who are interested in studying international business, which is just one of the many concentrations in the Master of Business Administration (some others include ethical leadership, accounting, cyber and information security, and marketing). 

The Master of Business Administration in international business provides students with key benefits, including a broad business education and training in consumer psychology. You’ll also hone your skills in communication, analysis, and decision-making.

The curriculum includes 24 credits of core courses along with 12 credit sign the international business specialization. These core courses are required of all MBA students and cover topics such as Managerial Accounting and Strategic Marketing management.

You do not have to have an undergraduate background in business to be eligible for admission. However, if you do not have a bachelor’s in business, you will be required to take three preparatory courses to catch you up before you begin your core classes. 

Most classes are offered in online and blended formats. Each one is only eight weeks long when pursued online (when classes are taken on campus, they are normally about 16 weeks).

The international business specialization includes all the courses you might expect in a program of this kind, including International Business Law and Global Marketing Concepts and Strategies. However, you’ll also complete a final graduate project and business internship. This internship is a defining characteristic of the international business program—it will provide you with invaluable hands-on experience.

Ready to apply? The admission process at St. Thomas is easy and straightforward. You will need to submit a free graduate admission application and submit transcripts from any colleges you have attended. There is no fee to apply. You will receive a decision on your application almost immediately. 

Financial aid is available to all graduate students as long as you complete the FAFSA. 

#7.  The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Master of Business Administration with a concentration in International Trade Online

With multiple campuses throughout the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, it might be tough for you to find the right location for you when you choose to study at this public research university. If you’re having trouble deciding, consider enrolling in one of the school’s many online programs. 

This university has an enrollment of nearly 30,000 students, making it the ninth-largest university in the state. It’s home to a diverse population of learners spread out among 64 bachelor’s and 49 master’s programs. It’s ranked third in the country when it comes to awarding degrees to Hispanic students, too. 

The Master of Business Administration with a concentration in international trade online is one of the best if you are looking for a program that will provide you with skills in management, finance, and marketing. It can help you succeed in a fast-paced international business environment and is ranked as one of the most affordable MBAs in online international business programs, too. 

The degree features multiple start dates each year and can be completed in just 12 months of study. You’ll complete 36 credit hours of courses, each of which lasts only 7 weeks. The international trade concentration will help you develop the confidence and management skills you need to take your career to the next level.

A cross-cultural training program, this degree covers all the foundational topics of business but with an international lens. You’ll take classes in things like the law governing international sales and customs, trans-border operations, and multicultural marketing. While you’re enrolled, you’ll be supported by a prestigious faculty with extensive industry experience, too.

Core class titles include Advanced Corporate Finance, Production and Operations Management, and Information Systems for Managers. You will also complete a holistic seminar in global topics that address the most pertinent issues in global business today.

A fully online accelerated program, this degree is within reach of all learners. Not only does the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley offer a myriad of high-quality programs to its learners, but it also offers some of the most affordable tuition rates, too. For the MBA, tuition starts at just $472.22 per credit hour. 

The school is ranked sixth in the state for the lowest student loan debt, due in part to its generous financial aid distribution and rock-bottom tuition rates. Plus, there are multiple scholarships available for online learners. The $1,000 Graduate Deans’ Accelerated Online Scholarship and the GRE/GMAT Test Fee Scholarship are two to consider.

To apply, you do not need to submit an application fee, but you will need to complete an online application. You should have a GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and you’ll need to submit the GMAT or GRE prior to admission, too. Official transcripts must be supplied from all universities you have attended. 

#8. Dallas Baptist University

MBA – International Business Concentration

Dallas Baptist University enrolls more than 4,487 students spread out among 73 undergraduate and 32 masters degree programs. Known for its excellent services for commuter students, Dallas Baptist also offers dozens of high-quality online programs, too. 

This private university has a Christian worldview and founded the Institute for Global Engagement in 2015. This non-partisan think tank is dedicated to addressing public issues, bringing together practitioners and experts from a variety of fields to discuss issues with a Christian worldview. 

As a result, this school serves as one of the best destinations for students who are interested in expanding their education in international business. Available entirely online, the international business concentration exists as a track in the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.

The degree is offered by the Dallas Baptist University Graduate School of Business. The faculty in this school are not only educators but are also practitioners who place a serious emphasis on real-world skills. You’ll learn just as much from interacting with mentors as you will from the textbook material in the classroom. 

You’ll complete 36 credit hours in this program, which examines various aspects of the strategy and management of multinational or global business organizations. You will gain the global understanding of business necessary to compete in today’s complex and ever-changing business world. 

The core MBA curriculum consists of classes such as Managerial Accounting, Corporate Finance, and Management Information Systems. After completing these core classes, you will move on to international business concentration courses like International Economic and Legal Environment and Global Initiatives in Management.

A non-thesis degree, the program prepares graduates to be successful on a professional and personal level. A variety of practical projects are integrated into the curriculum—you will complete a variety of experiential projects and have the opportunity to work with corporate leadership partners. Your work will cover both for-profit and not-for-profit organizations. 

There are a number of advanced certificates you can pursue as an alternative to or in addition to your degree. Some of the most popular include those in business innovation strategy, business intelligence and analytics, conflict resolution, and marketing, although there are dozens more available to motivate students.

Dallas Baptist is highly ranked and well-regarded, with U.S. News & World Report designating the school as one of its top National Universities for several years in a row. Although tuition rates are already low, the school prides itself on offering generous financial aid to all students, too. In fact, 63% of all students receive some kind of financial aid. 

To apply, you will need to submit a formal application for admission. You will also need to provide transcripts from every institution you have attended as an undergraduate or graduate student, along with two letters of recommendation from people who are not related to you. A statement of purpose outlining your reasons for applying is also required, as is a current professional resume. 

#9.  Florida Atlantic University

Flexible MBA – International Business

A public university located in Boca Raton, FL, Florida Atlantic University has campuses all over the state. Satellite campuses can be found in Davie, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Pierce, Jupiter, and Dania Beach. In addition, Florida Atlantic University has one of the most prominent online campuses for distance learners. 

Classified as one of the R2L: Doctoral Universities-High Research Activity ” by the Carnegie Classifications, this school offers more than 170 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, each of which has an emphasis on hands-on learning. The school prides itself on providing learners with opportunities like lab experiences, work-study, internship placements, and more to help them secure jobs prior to graduation.

Not only that, but Florida Atlantic University has a profound alumni network that supports and uplifts prospective and current students. Since its inception, the school has awarded more than 110,000 degrees. 

Here, you will find one of the best online master’s in international business. This program is an offshoot of the Master of Business Administration program and provides learners with the advanced management training they need to improve their leadership capabilities. As a student in this program, you’ll develop broad managerial skills and expertise in a business discipline of your choosing. 

You will be able to take 12 credits of program electives in international business along with various graduate-level courses in the Department of management. Offered by the Management Program Department, this program will prepare you for a wide variety of career opportunities. 

This department is one of seven academic units in the College Of Business and is the largest department in the college. It’s home to more than 1800 students! Here, traditional and nontraditional students alike become business leaders with the skills they need to navigate the demands of a global business world. Other areas of concentration include human resources, management, and small business/entrepreneurship.

Depending on the pathway you select, you’ll take anywhere between 43 and 55 credits, 31 of which are core courses. You can bring in up to 12 credits of undergraduate business courses to help reduce some of these core requirements, too. Other core classes include Business Law and Applied Ethics, Graduate Business Communication, and Global Business Strategy.

You’ll learn from 26 different faculty members, most of whom have doctoral degrees and extensive experience. The curriculum is incredibly flexible and designed to meet the needs of working professionals. 

The MBA is ranked as one of the Best Online Master’s in Business by the U.S. News & World Report. It’s accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International and is also highly ranked by the Financial Times, too. 

You won’t pay an arm and a leg to pursue your dreams, either. This program has Flexible MBA tuition starting at just $369 for in-state students. You’ll pay only $20,340 for a degree requiring 55 credit hours of study! 

#10.  Florida International University

Online Master of International Business

As the largest university in the Greater Miami region and the largest university in South Florida, Florida International University is one of those schools that really lives up to its name. With more than 11 separate colleges and 40 different learning institutes, centers, labs, facilities, and services, the school provides students from all backgrounds with the experiences they need to be successful.

Here, you’ll be able to choose from more than 190 different majors. If you’re looking for a program with a global perspective, the Master of International Business is the perfect fit. Offered by the Alvah H. Chapman Jr. Graduate School of Business, this program has multiple start dates each year and takes most students just 12 months to complete. 

Each semester is broken down into short eight-week sessions. You’ll be able to progress quickly through the curriculum, taking a total of 30 credit hours. The curriculum takes a multidisciplinary approach to the realities that shape global business and emphasizes things like geopolitics, interpersonal and cross-cultural skills, and emerging markets.

In addition to the core classes listed above, you will also have the opportunity to go on an international trip abroad to observe business transactions in a foreign location. 

A highly specialized degree, it is highly ranked and taught by faculty members who are renowned experts in their field. Florida International is one of only 15 schools in the United States to have been awarded a federal grant to operate a Center for International Business Education and Research. 

Even if you choose to study online, you’ll benefit from Florida International University’s pivotal location in downtown Miami. The city is a global trade hub and the bridge between Asia and Latin America, making it a great place to study international business. You’ll be able to develop an extensive network of professional contacts within South Florida’s international business community, too.

This hands-on degree features some of the best experiential learning opportunities. You’ll build specialized international business knowledge as you meet with international business executives and pay visits to cultural sites. You will also be able to interact with a faculty that consists of more than 60% international instructors. As a student in this program, you can also choose to participate in a variety of seminars and workshops through the office of Business Career Management.

Don’t want to stop with the international business pathway? You don’t have to. You can also complete this program as a dual degree and receive an additional master’s from a partner school in the Americas, Asia, or Europe, too. Needless to say, this program will open up dozens of doors for you around the world as you begin your new career.

Tuition here is incredibly low, too. Graduate tuition starts at just $455.64 per credit hour for in-state students. Although costs are somewhat higher for out-of-state learners, you’ll still pay a low overall cost for your degree here. Significant financial aid is available to most students, too. 

OTHER NOTABLE PROGRAMS 

#11. Tiffin University

Location: Tiffin, OH

Degree: MBA with a Concentration in International Business

Net Price: $20,474

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#12. Nova Southeastern University

Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL

Degree: M.B.A. With a Major in International Business

Net Price: $25,867

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#13. University of North Carolina

Location: Chapel Hill, NC

Degree: Executive MBA with a Specialization in International Business Online

Net Price: $17,771

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#14. Webber International University

Location: Babson Park, FL

Degree: International Business MBA (Online)

Net Price: $24,323

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#15. University of Scranton

Location: Scranton, PA

Degree: Business Administration, MBA – International Business Specialization

Net Price: $36,725

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#16. University of Colorado

Location: Colorado Springs, CO

Degree: Masters of Business Administration (MBA) – International Business Emphasis

Net Price: $15,645

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#17. Webster University

Location: Webster Groves, MO

Degree: MBA with an Emphasis in International Relations

Net Price: $22,727

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#18. University of Wisconsin

Location: Madison, WI

Degree: MBA (Master of Business Administration) – International Business (online)

Net Price: $12,094

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#19. University of Delaware

Location: Newark, DE

Degree: Master of Business Administration — Online MBA Focus in International Business

Net Price: $15,883

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#20. Lehigh University

Location: Bethlehem, PA

Degree: Flex MBA Program International Business Concentration

Net Price: $26,782

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#21. University of North Dakota

Location: Grand Forks, ND

Degree: Business Administration (M.B.A.) Concentration in International Business

Net Price: $15,374

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#22. Lynn University

Location: Boca Raton, FL

Degree: International Business Management Master of Business Administration

Net Price: $39,401

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#23. Northeastern University

Location: Boston, MA

Degree: Online MBA – International Management Concentration

Net Price: $34,245

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#24. National University

Location: La Jolla, CA

Degree: Master of Business Administration (MBA) Specialization in International Business

Net Price: $15,480

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#25. Gardner-Webb University

Location: Boiling Springs, NC

Degree: International Master of Business Administration (IMBA)

Net Price: $19,197

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#26. Concordia University-Wisconsin

Location: Mequon, WI

Degree: MBA in International Business

Net Price: $24,803

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#27. Washington State University

Location: Pullman, WA

Degree: Online MBA in International Business

Net Price: $17,297

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#28. Campbellsville University

Location: Campbellsville, KY

Degree: Online MBA – International Business

Net Price: $17,843

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#29. Azusa Pacific University

Location: Azusa, CA

Degree: Online MBA – International Business

Net Price: $29,152

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#30. Benedictine University

Location: Lisle, IL

Degree: International Business MBA Online

Net Price: $25,508

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#31. SUNY Empire State College

Location: Saratoga Springs, NY

Degree: Master of Business Administration in Business Management – International Business Track

Net Price: $13,415

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#32. Brandman University

Location: Irvine, CA

Degree: MBA in International Business

Net Price: $27,446

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#33. Ashford University

Location: San Diego, CA

Degree: MBA – Global Management Specialization

Net Price: $19,141

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#34. Colorado State University-Global Campus

Location: Aurora, CO

Degree: Online Master’s Degree in International Management

Net Price: $17,797

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#35. Indiana Wesleyan University

Location: Marion, IN

Degree: MBA in International Business

Net Price: $21,492

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IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE 50 HIGHEST-PAYING MASTER’S DEGREES & 50 MOST POPULAR ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREES!