Many mid career professionals interested in managerial positions are looking for accelerated online Master’s in Business Management degrees that meet their needs. These professionals come from different industries, both the public and private sectors, and from varying educational backgrounds. However, they are all looking for a degree that can be completed in a short amount of time while not interfering with their current careers.
Online degrees in business management fill this need quite well. They are often more affordable than a traditional degree and offer more flexible features, such as asynchronous and synchronous courses and accelerated term schedules. This ranking aims to showcase all of the online features available and time-to-completion rates to search for a good online master’s in business management much more feasible for working mid career professionals.
Methodology
Minimum Time to Completion
- Less Than 2 Years: 1 point
- 20 Months or Less: 2 points
- 18 Months or Less: 3 points
- 16 Months or Less: 4 points
- 14 Months or Less: 5 points
- 12 Months or Less: 6 points
- 10 Months or Less: 7 points
Graduate Tuition
- Less Than $20,000: 1 point
- Less Than $15,000: 2 points
- Less Than $10,000: 3 points
- Less Than $5,000: 4 points
- Accreditation – 1 point per item (Institutional and Programmatic)
- Online Student Support Services—1 point
Ranking Low-Cost Accelerated Master’s in Business Management
To develop this ranking, our editors began with an initial pool of just over one hundred colleges and universities nationwide offering accelerated online master’s in management or accelerated online MBA degree programs. We then applied a tuition filter, eliminating schools with expenses of over $20,000 per year. Finally, we applied the rating and ranking methodology above, using data from the National Center for Education Statistics and each program’s website. In the case of a tie, the more affordable program was awarded the higher position.
Types of Degrees Featured in this Ranking:
- Online MBA in Management and Business Ethics
- Online MBA in Management
- Online MBA: Management and Organizations
- Online MBA: Strategic Management and Leadership
- Online MBA in Global Management
- Online MBA: Operations Management
- Online MBA in General Management
- Online MS in Management
- Online MS in Strategic Management
- Online MS in Management and Leadership
- Online MS in Management, Strategy & Leadership
#50—Michigan State University
Offered through its distinguished Broad College of Business, Michigan State University’s accelerated online master’s in management program is fully AACSB-accredited. The program is designed to be completed within 20 months of study for those with a undergraduate degree and can be accessed fully online. Once enrolled, students will take five-week core courses, including:
- Competitive & Business Strategy
- Managing the Learning Organization
- Strategic Decision Making
- Human Resource Management for General Managers
Elective classes are also available and include:
- Developing Reward & Compensation Systems
- Talent Management & Development
- Managing Diversity in the Workplace
Michigan State is institutionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school’s online master’s business programs among the top offerings in the nation, excluding the best online MBA programs.
Graduate Tuition: $18,858
#49—Oregon State University
Oregon State University is home to one of the flexible one year MBA program that can be pursued entirely online or via a hybrid format. This Organizational Leadership MBA requires 60 credit hours of coursework, including major requirements like:
- Creating Value in Exchange
- Business Legal Environment
- Advanced Strategic Management
- Supply Chain Management
An integrative capstone experience is also required before graduation. This experience includes both a written and oral presentation. Oregon State is fully accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities to offer accelerated MBA programs online. The school’s business degree offerings are also programmatically accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). U.S. News & World Report has ranked OSU’s online MBAs as some of the nation’s leading programs.
Graduate Tuition: $12,933
#48—King University
King University is known for its accelerated MBA programs, including the online MBA with a management concentration. This 36-credit hour option includes major course requirements such as:
- Business Law
- Accounting for Managerial Decision-Making
- Strategic Financial Management
- Economics of Organizational Architecture and Strategy
Students who elect the Management concentration will take additional classes like:
- Operations Management
- Managing for Organizational Effectiveness
- Building Competitive Advantage: Human Resource Development
- Global business consulting projects
The entire course of study can be completed within just 16 months. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has accredited King University to offer accelerated MBA programs online. U.S. News & World Report has recognized the school’s online MBA programs as some of the nation’s best.
Graduate Tuition: $19,500
#47—Loyola Marymount University
Ranked one of the most innovative schools in the country by U.S. News & World Report, Loyola Marymount University offers an accelerated online master of management degree option that can be completed in just one and a half years. The program currently features synchronous online course delivery, meaning students are required to attend virtual class meetings on a predetermined schedule. Required courses include:
- Operations Analysis and Decision Support Systems
- Management and Organizational Behavior
- The Legal and Ethical Environment of Business
- Management Information Systems
Two management workshops are also required:
- Personal Development and Career Planning
- Introduction to Business and Communications
Loyola Marymount University is institutionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. The school’s business programs are separately accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
Graduate Tuition: $18,606
#46—Norwich University
Norwich University offers an accelerated MBA that students can complete within eighteen months of study. The program consists of six courses, three of which are required for the degree:
- Managerial Finance
- Strategic Marketing and Operations Management
- Strategic Resources Management
Students enrolled in the Organizational Leadership concentration will take three additional classes:
- Strategic Organizational Leadership & Developing a Learning Organization
- Leading Change in Organizations
- Strategic Organizational Behavior
In addition to online coursework, the program also requires an independent research project and a one-week residency on campus. Ranked among the top 65 regional universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report, Norwich University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education. The school is also separately accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs to offer accelerated MBA programs online.
Graduate Tuition: $17,904
#45—University of New Haven
The accelerated MBA from the University of New Haven features a unique concentration in Global Supply Chain Management. This 100% online option features core course for those with undergraduate degree titles such as:
- Managing in a Global Economy
- Leadership and Team Building
- Strategic Management
- Leading Organizational Strategy and Change
- Global business consulting projects
Students enrolled in the Global Supply Chain Management will take additional classes like:
- Management Process
- Managing in Global Markets
- Decisions in Operations Management
- Mining for Business Intelligence
The University of New Haven holds institutional accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education. Its Pompea College of Business is also programmatically accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the top 60 regional universities in the North.
Graduate Tuition: $16,920
#44—Olivet Nazarene University
Olivet Nazarene University offers several accelerated MBA programs, including an online MBA option with a graduate certificate in Leadership. The 36-credit hour degree plan can be completed within 18 or 24 months, depending on course load. Once enrolled, students will take core business administration courses such as:
- Data Acquisition and Analysis
- Marketing and Brand Management
- Decision Making
- Professional Communication
Classes required for the Leadership certificate include:
- Managing Change
- Applied Leadership
- Understanding and Creating Effective Organizations
The Higher Learning Commission has accredited Olivet Nazarene University to offer accelerated MBA programs online. The university has been recognized as one of the top five best value schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $13,420
#43—Florida Atlantic University
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With a completion time of just under two years, the online master’s in business management option from Florida Atlantic University is one of the longer accelerated MBA programs in our ranking. Still, the program is offered entirely online via a fully asynchronous format, making it accessible for working mid career professionals. The program’s core curriculum features course titles such as:
- Communication Strategies for Business Professionals
- Global Environment of Management
- Management of Information Systems and Technology
- Leadership and Organizations
Students enrolled in the Operations Management concentration will also take additional classes like:
- Supply Chain Management
- Business Process Improvement
- Project Management
Institutionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, FAU has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report for offering one of the top 100 best online MBA programs in the country. The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business has accredited this and other online business degrees offered by Florida Atlantic University.
Graduate Tuition: $5,467
#42—Southern New Hampshire University
In addition to its accelerated MBA programs, Southern New Hampshire University offers a standout Master of Science in Management option. This versatile option features three distinct concentration options:
- Emergency Management
- Healthcare
- Construction Management
The bulk of the curriculum is comprised of major courses, though, including:
- Resource Planning and Decision Making
- Strategic Human Resource Management
- Cultivating Organizational Culture
- Human Behavior in Organizations
The New England Commission of Higher Education has accredited SNHU to confer online master of management credentials. The MS in Management, including all concentrations, is separately accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). U.S. News & World Report has ranked the university among the top 75 best value schools nationwide.
Graduate Tuition: $18,810
#41—University of Mary
The University of Mary offers accelerated MBA programs through its Gary Tharaldson School of Business. Its online management MBA is a 36-credit hour degree plan with a concentration in Virtuous Leadership. Core course titles include:
- Leadership & Management Theory
- Business Research & Writing
- Law in the Managerial Environment
- Managerial Finance
Concentration-specific coursework will include the following classes:
- Culture and Public Service
- Virtual Leadership Immersion
- Philosophy of Happiness
- Business and Catholic Social Teaching
The University of Mary holds institutional accreditation from The Higher Learning Commission. Its online MBA programs are separately accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE). The school has been named one of the top national universities in the United States, according to U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $16,740
#40—Spring Arbor University
Spring Arbor University is home to some of the best online MBA programs in the country regarding affordability and scheduling options. The MBA in Management can be completed in just 18 months of part-time study or 12 months of full-time enrollment. Courses comprising the curriculum for the program include:
- Management of Organizational Behavior
- Strategic Planning and Management
- Human Resource Development
Spring Arbor University is institutionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission to award one-year MBA programs online. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the university among the top 40 best value schools nationwide.
Graduate Tuition: $7,886
#39—Texas A&M University-Commerce
Texas A&M University-Commerce offers several affordable online MBA programs, including a Master of Business Administration with a minor in Corporate Management. The degree plan is comprised of 30 credit hours of coursework and can be pursued fully online. Core requirements for the program include:
- Business Analytics for Managers
- Applied Business Research
- Strategic Management
- Management & Organizational Behavior
Students who elect the Corporate Management Concentration will take additional classes such as:
- Corporate Governance and Sustainability
- Transforming Organizations
- Executive Development
- Global Competitiveness
Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Texas A&M University has been highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report for its accelerated MBA programs. These graduate business programs hold specialty accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
Graduate Tuition: $3,630
#38—Benedictine University
Students looking for accelerated MBA programs with an emphasis in Management will be interested in Benedictine University’s 1 year online MBA option. The bulk of the program’s curriculum focuses on the managerial process and is comprised of course titles such as:
- Financial Management
- Leadership & Ethics in a Global Environment
- Operations Management
- Managerial Economics
Students enrolled in this accelerated program will take two courses at a time and complete the requirements for the MBA credential within twelve months. The Higher Learning Commission has accredited Benedictine University to confer the master’s in business management online. The school has been identified as a top national university by U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $18,273
#37—St. Francis College
The online master’s in management from St. Francis College is a flexible degree program that students can pursue via a fully online or hybrid basis. The curriculum is also versatile, featuring five distinct concentrations:
- Digital Marketing
- Health Care Management
- Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- Project Management
- Business Management
Sample course titles comprising the 33-credit hour degree plan include:
- Organizational Development and Change Management
- Marketing for Managers
- Corporate Finance
- Business Analytics for Managers
The Middle States Commission on Higher Education has accredited St. Francis College to award these online graduate business degrees. U.S. News & World Report has ranked it among the top 10 best value schools nationwide.
Graduate Tuition: $16,000
#36—University of St. Francis
The University of St. Francis offers an accelerated online MS in Management program through its ACBSP-accredited College of Business & Health Administration. This is a dynamic program, featuring eight different specialization options, including:
- Instructional Design in Online Learning
- Supply Chain Management
- Performance Improvement
- Data Science in Health Care
Required core courses include:
- Organizational and Team Leadership
- Leading Continuous Improvement
- Performance Measurement & Financial Management
- Developing Personal Leadership
The University of St. Francis is institutionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. Its online graduate business offerings have been ranked among the top 75 in the nation (excluding best online MBA programs) by U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $13,464
#35—Marian University
The accelerated master of management online program from Marian University is a highly accessible offering, featuring a dozen different start dates per year. The 30-credit hour curriculum for the program is prescribed and features course titles such as:
- Leading Teams in a Global Economy
- Leading Ethically and Responsibly
- Business Analysis: Data Mining
- Managerial Accounting for Business Decisions
- Interpersonal Leadership
The Higher Learning Commission has accredited Marian University to award online master’s in management degrees. Its School of Business also holds programmatic accreditation from the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE). U.S. News & World Report has recognized Marian University as one of the best regional universities in the Midwest.
Graduate Tuition: $10,800
#34—Florida International University
One of the 60 best online MBA programs in the nation according to U.S. News & World Report, the online MBA in Leadership from Florida International University is a highly flexible option. The Leadership emphasis is one of eight different concentration options, and students can take advantage of five distinct start dates per year. Core courses required for the degree include:
- Marketing Management in the Global Environment
- Business Analysis for Decision Making
- Financial Reporting and Analysis
- Competitive Strategy
Classes mandated for the specialization include:
- Negotiation
- Leadership
- Leadership in a Global Environment
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has accredited FIU to award the online MBA credential. The program itself also holds separate accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
Graduate Tuition: $8,912
#33—Western Governor’s University
Programmatically accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), the online master of management offering from Western Governor’s University takes just 18 months of online study to complete. This accelerated option features a prescribed curriculum, including ten courses. Sample course titles include:
- Management Communication
- Change Management and Innovation
- Strategic Management
- Managing Organizations and Leading People
A management and leadership capstone is also required for successful program completion. The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities has accredited WGU to confer online master’s in management credentials.
Graduate Tuition: $7,500
#32—University of Bridgeport
Ranked by U.S. News & World Report as a top national university, the University of Bridgeport offers one-year MBA programs from its prestigious Ernest C. Trefz School of Business. Once enrolled, students will complete 18 credit hours of core coursework, including classes like:
- Advanced Financial Management and Policy
- Information Systems & Knowledge Management
- Marketing and Branding
- Global Program and Project Management
Two additional classes are required for the Management concentration:
- International Issues Management
- Human Resources Management
The New England Association of Schools and Colleges has accredited the University of Bridgeport to offer 12 month MBA programs online. Its graduate business programs hold separate accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
Graduate Tuition: $18,612
#31—Northcentral University
Home to one of the ACBSP-accredited online MBA programs in our ranking, the 1 year online MBA from Northcentral University features several different management concentrations, including a standout option in Management of Virtual Organizations. Core courses required for the degree include:
- Innovation and Marketing
- Managing People and Teams
- Managing Business Finances
- Changing Times: Business in the 21st Century
Courses in the specialization may include:
- Virtual Leadership and Team Management
- Legal and Other Implications in a Virtual Organization
- Building Virtual Teams and Trust
The WASC Senior College and University Commission has accredited Northcentral University to offer one-year MBA programs online.
Graduate Tuition: $16,983
#30—Walsh University
The online MBA in Management from Walsh University is one of the best accelerated MBA programs in our ranking in terms of convenience and flexibility. The program features six annual start dates, and students are required to take just one class per 8-week term. Once enrolled, you can expect to take courses such as:
- Applied Organizational Research & Analysis
- Sustainable Ethical Leadership
- Financial Accounting & Management
- Organizational Behavior and Communication
U.S. News & World Report has recognized Walsh University as one of the leading providers of accredited online MBA programs nationwide. It is institutionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is an AACSB Business Education Alliance Member.
Graduate Tuition: $12,870
#29—University of Arizona
Offered through the school’s distinguished Eller School of Management, the University of Arizona’s accredited online MBA programs enable working professionals to earn their MBA credentials in just 14 months of study. The curriculum for the program is comprehensive, requiring 45 total units of coursework. Core courses include:
- Managing Ethics in Organizations
- Strategic Management of Information Systems
- Applied Business Statistics
- Communications Management
Students who elect the Management track will enroll in additional classes such as:
- Groups and Teams
- Business Law
- Advanced Negotiation
This program also features an optional global experience. The Higher Learning Commission has accredited the University of Arizona on an institutional level. The Eller College of Management is separately accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The university is home to one of the nation’s top 10 best online MBA programs, according to U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $11,938
#28—Indiana University- Bloomington
Indiana University offers a top online master’s in management degree program through its renowned Kelley School of Business. This 15-month MS option is designed for business professionals with a minimum of five years of experience in a management role. The curriculum for the program is mostly prescribed and may include course titles such as:
- Strategic Competitive Analysis
- Corporate Entrepreneurship and Innovation
- Thinking Strategically: Game Theory and Business Strategy
- Decision-Making and Leadership
Institutionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, Indiana University’s business degree programs are also separately accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International. The university’s management programs in particular have been ranked among the very best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $9,501
#27—Park University
Park University offers several accelerated MBA programs that can be completed in as few as 15 months. For example, the online Master of Business Administration option in Quality and Innovation Management emphasizes process outcomes and improvement. This 33-credit hour degree plan is comprised of general core classes such as:
- Strategic Management
- Accounting for Management Decisions
- Business Law and Ethics
- Organization Behavior and Leadership
Concentration-specific courses are also required and include:
- Collaborative Innovation Strategies
- Principles of Quality Management
- Innovative Project Management
- Innovative Techniques in Quality Management
Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, Park University made U.S. News & World Report’s ranking of best online MBA programs. The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) accredits its business programs.
Graduate Tuition: $6,012
#26—University of Louisiana-Lafayette
The University of Louisiana-Lafayette offers accelerated MBA programs online through its B.I. Moody III College of Business Administration. The standout Master of Business Administration with a Global Business Management concentration requires 33 credit hours of fully online coursework and can be completed in just 15 months of study. Core courses include:
- Analytical Methods for Planning and Control
- Policy Formulation, Strategy, and Administration
- Advanced Financial Management and Policy
- Managerial Economics
In addition to core MBA coursework, students will also take courses specific to the Global Management concentration, including:
- Multinational Value Chain
- International Business
- Organizational Behavior and Leadership
- International Business Law
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is institutionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The school’s business program holds programmatic accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. U.S. News & World Report has recognized the school for offering some of the nation’s best online MBA programs.
Graduate Tuition: $5,511
#25—University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign
Offered through the reputable Gies College of Business, the accelerated master’s in management online program from the University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign is a Master of Science option as opposed to an accelerated MBA. The robust 36-credit hour curriculum for the program features required core courses such as:
- Process Management
- Leadership and Teams
- Introduction to Financial Management
- Strategic Management
Students enrolled in the program will also take four elective classes from options such as:
- Global Business Horizons
- Managing Organizations
- Global Impact: Cultural Psychology & Business Ethics
- Introduction to Data: Communicating with Data
The Higher Learning Commission has accredited the University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign to confer master’s in management online degrees. The university’s business programs hold special accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
Graduate Tuition: $14,997
#24—University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Offered through the Manning School of Business, the University of Massachusetts-Lowell’s accelerated online MBA programs are among the 40 best in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report. The curriculum for this highly ranked program features required core courses such as:
- Customers and Markets
- Management Information Systems
- Strategy Formation and Implementation
- Managing Organizational Change
Classes comprising the Managerial Leadership concentration include:
- Workforce Analytics
- Management Consulting
- Advanced Professional Communication
- Human Resources Management
The New England Commission of Higher Education has accredited UMass- Lowell to offer 12 month MBA programs online. Its graduate business school is programmatically accredited by the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International.
Graduate Tuition: $14,590
#23—Harding University
Harding University offers one of the best fully online accelerated MBA programs in the nation. The curriculum for the program emphasizes business ethics and features core courses such as:
- Information Systems for Competitive Advantage
- Managerial Finance
- Applied Theory of Economics
- Ethics in the Legal Environment
Students can also choose from elective classes like:
- Ethics and Social Issues in Business
- Leadership Theory and Process
- Family Business Management
- Conflict Management in Business
- global business consulting
Harding University is institutionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission to offer this accelerated MBA credential, and its graduate business school is separately accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). The school has been recognized as a top national university by U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $13,372
#22—Eastern University
Eastern University’s accelerated MBA programs are offered through its ACBSP-accredited College of Business and Leadership. Students can pursue the 36-credit hour degree plan on a full-time or part-time basis, and full-time students can earn their credentials in just one year. The program’s core curriculum is comprised of course titles such as:
- Operations and Supply Chain Management
- Digital Media & Marketing
- Ethics and Social Justice
- Talent Management
Classes required for the Leadership concentration include:
- Managing Diversity and Conflict
- Leadership Theory
- The Art of Decision Making
- Organizational Behavior & Development
- global business consulting
The Middle States Commission on Higher Education has accredited Eastern University to offer one-year MBA programs. They have been ranked among some of the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $13,050
#21—California Baptist University
California Baptist University is home to one of the top accelerated MBA programs designed for working business professionals. The program requires 36 credit hours of coursework, including core courses such as:
- Quantitative Business Modeling
- Global Business Management
- Economic Issues and Analysis for the Changing Business Environment
- Foundations of Management
Students enrolled in the Management concentration will take additional classes like:
- The Ethical and Legal Environment of Business
- Organizational Behavior
- Management of Information Systems
- Entrepreneurship
CBU’s Division of Online and Professional Studies holds global accreditation to offer 12 month MBA programs online by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). The school itself is institutionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. U.S. News & World Report has also recognized the school’s online MBA programs as some of the nation’s best.
Graduate Tuition: $12,830
#20—Thomas Edison State University
Offered through the ACBSP-accredited School of Business and Management, the online Master of Science in Management (MSM) program from Thomas Edison State University is an accelerated degree option that can be completed in as few as 12 months. The curriculum for the program is versatile and includes options to specialize in one of three different management areas:
- Organizational Leadership
- Project Management
- Accounting
Regardless of specialization track, all students will take core courses like:
- Economic Issues in Organizations
- Leadership Management in the 21st Century
- Human Resources Management
- Finance and Accounting for Managers
Thomas Edison State University is fully accredited to award online master’s degrees in management by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Graduate Tuition: $12,024
#19—University of Saint Mary
In terms of accelerated MBA programs, the University of Saint Mary offers one of the best in General Management. A 1 year online MBA option, the program is comprised of core classes like:
- Managerial Accounting
- Strategic Management and Ethics
- Global Management
- Legal Environment & Commercial Transactions
The General Management concentration is exceedingly flexible, enabling students to choose from a wide variety of elective courses such as:
- Management Information Systems
- Financial Decisions
- Project Management
- Leadership and Organizational Health
The University of Saint Mary is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission to award the online master’s in business management. The program itself is accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE). U.S. News & World Report has called it one of the best online MBA programs in the nation.
Graduate Tuition: $11,124
#18—Northern Kentucky University
Northern Kentucky University’s accelerated MBA option is offered through the school’s AACSB-accredited Haile/US Bank College of Business. This 33-credit hour Master of Business Administration in Leadership is comprised of 16 courses, including required classes such as:
- Financial Management in Organizations
- Strategies for High Performing Organizations
- Accounting in a Corporate Environment
- Introduction to Information Systems in Organizations
Courses associated with the Leadership concentration include:
- Negotiation and Conflict Resolution
- Essentials of Project Management
- Leading in a Dynamic World
The University of Northern Kentucky is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. U.S. News & World Report has ranked it among the top colleges and universities in the nation for accredited online MBA programs.
Graduate Tuition: $11,034
#17—Bryan College
While not a 1 year online MBA, you can complete the Master of Business Administration in General Management from Bryan College within just 14 months. Accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education, the program requires 36 credit hours of coursework and features accelerated 8-week courses such as:
- Biblical/Worldview Principles of Management
- Managing Human Resources
- Business in a Global Environment
- Quantitative Methods for Business
Bryan College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. U.S. News & World Report has ranked its master’s in business management option as one of the best online MBA programs nationwide.
Graduate Tuition: $9,414
#16—Austin Peay State University
Ideal for career changers, the online master’s in management option from Austin Peay State University is open to students with any type of bachelor’s degree. This accelerated program can be completed within just a year of full-time study and is structured around 8-week courses. Courses comprising the curriculum for the MS in Management degree plan include:
- Leadership & Organizational Dynamics
- Managerial Use of Financial Reports
- Applied Business Research
- Issues in Strategic Management
Austin Peay State University is institutionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the top colleges and universities in the country for an online master’s in business, excluding best online MBA programs.
Graduate Tuition: $8,100
#15—University of Houston- Clear Lake
The University of Houston-Clear Lake offers affordable online MBA programs that can be completed in just over a year of study. The curriculum for the program requires 36 credit hours of coursework, 24 of which are core requirements. These core courses include:
- Management Science and Operations
- Human Behavior in Organizations
- Executive Decisions in Marketing
- The Global Environment of Business
The Leadership concentration requires additional specialized coursework, including:
- Positive Leadership and Ethical Action
- Organizational Transformation, Learning, and Design
- Comparative Leadership
Institutionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the University of Houston-Clear Lake has been ranked among the top best value schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Its accelerated MBA programs online are separately accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International.
Graduate Tuition: $7,920
#14—Mount Vernon Nazarene University
One of the most accelerated MBA programs in our ranking, the online Master of Business Administration in Organizational Management from Mount Vernon Nazarene University, can be completed in less than one year. The program is offered through the university’s School of Graduate & Professional Studies and comprises 36 credit hours of coursework. The bulk of the degree plan is comprised of core classes such as:
- Legal Issues in Management
- Ethical Leadership
- Strategic Management
- Organizational Behavior
Courses aligned with the Organizational Management concentration include:
- Operations Management
- Change Management
- Strategic Programming in HR Management
The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). MVNU also holds institutional accreditation from The Higher Learning Commission. U.S. News & World Report has ranked it among the leading regional universities in the Midwest.
Graduate Tuition: $8,964
#13—Wilmington University
Online Master of Science in Management (MSM)
Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 12 Months
Points: 12
One of the most customizable online master’s in management programs in our ranking, the one-year MS in Management degree plan from Wilmington University features nearly a dozen specialization options. Some of these areas of emphasis include:
- Management Information Systems
- Business Communication
- Organizational Leadership
- Nonprofit Management
Regardless of concentration, all management students will take certain core courses, including:
- Ethical Issues in Management
- Strategy and Decision-Making
- Change Management
- Diversity in the Workplace
Wilmington University is institutionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Its College of Business also holds programmatic accreditation from the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
Graduate Tuition: $8,784
#12—Frostburg State University
Online MBA in Management
Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 12 Months
Points: 12
Frostburg State University’s array of accelerated MBA programs includes an online Master of Business Administration with a management concentration. This 36-credit hour degree plan features a robust curriculum comprised of core courses like:
- Economics for Managers
- Strategic Planning
- Leadership and Ethics
- Organizational Behavior
Students in the Management track will take additional classes such as:
- Management Decision Analysis
- Strategic Human Resource Management
- Special Topics in Management
The Middle States Commission on Higher Education has accredited the university to award online master’s in business management degrees. The program itself holds special accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. U.S. News & World Report has recognized the school as one of the top colleges and universities nationwide for accredited online MBA programs.
Graduate Tuition: $7,866
11. Troy University
Offered through the AACSB-accredited Sorrell College of Business, the online master’s in management option from Troy University is a Master of Science in Management (MSM) offering with a leadership specialization. The core curriculum for the program is comprised of 21 semester hours of coursework, including classes like:
- Leading and Developing High Performance Teams
- Survey of Business Concepts
- Ethical Leadership & Management in a Global Economy
- Leadership of Innovation and Change
Students enrolled in the Leadership concentration will take additional courses, including:
- Advanced Leadership
- Management Information Systems for Leaders
- Foundations of Leadership and Motivation
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has accredited Troy University to award master of management online credentials. These programs have been ranked among the top 75 online graduate programs in business nationwide, excluding best MBA programs.
Graduate Tuition: $7,650
10. Charleston Southern University
Offered through the university’s College of Adult and Professional Studies, the Charleston Southern MS in Management program features accelerated 7-week courses and can be completed within just a year of full-time study. The 30-credit hour curriculum for the program is comprised of mostly core courses, including:
- Talent Management
- Managerial Innovation Strategies
- HR Management for the 21st Century
- Strategies for Managerial Sustainability
Students will also choose two elective classes, including options such as:
- Data Mining and Business Technology
- Product and Service Delivery Management
- Business Analysis and Modeling
- Influence Strategies and Negotiation
Institutionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and School’s Commission on Colleges, Charleston Southern University also holds programmatic accreditation from the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE). U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school’s online graduate business programs among the top 100 nationwide, excluding best MBA programs.
Graduate Tuition: $7,500
9. National American University
The accelerated MBA programs from National American University are offered through the Harold D. Buckingham Graduate School. This non-thesis option is highly accelerated and can be completed within just 12 months of study. Still, the program is comprehensive, requiring a total of 45 credit hours for completion. Core MBA courses comprising the curriculum include:
- Quantitative Methods for Management Decisions
- Managerial Economics
- Marketing Administration
- Introduction to Leadership and Quality
Classes associated with the Management concentration may include:
- Operations and Configuration Management
- Strategic Security Management
- Advanced Incident and Consequence Management
The Higher Learning Commission has accredited National American University to offer 12 month MBA programs online. The school’s graduate business programs are separately accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
Graduate Tuition: $7,296
8. Lamar University
The AACSB-accredited Master of Business Administration in Management offering from Lamar University is one of the best MBA programs in our ranking in terms of affordability and scheduling. The program is offered entirely online and can be completed within just a year of study. Core courses required for the degree include:
- International Business
- Managerial Decision Making
- Strategic Management
- Managerial Economics
Three concentration classes are also required and may include:
- Personal Leadership
- Concepts and Applications for New Ventures
- Employment Law
- Team Leadership
Lamar University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to confer this 1 year online MBA. It’s been named one of the top public schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $6,324
7. West Liberty University
One of the most affordable one-year MBA programs in the nation, West Liberty University’s online Master of Business Administration in Management is offered through the school’s Gary E. West College of Business. The 30-credit hour curriculum for the program is structured around accelerated 7-week courses, including business core classes like:
- Social Responsibility and Business Ethics
- Information Technology Management
- Integrative Marketing Management
- Managerial Accounting Decision Analysis
Concentration-specific courses are also required and include:
- Value Chain Management
- Public and Non-Profit Management
- Financial Management and Theory
Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, West Liberty University has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report for offering one of the best MBA programs online. The school’s College of Business is separately accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
Graduate Tuition: $6,300
#6—Gardner Webb University
In terms of accelerated MBA programs, Gardner Webb University offers one of the best. This fully online MBA option can be completed in just 10 months. The curriculum emphasizes managerial decision making and features core course titles such as:
- Production Research and Operations Management
- Managerial Economics
- Entrepreneurial Management
- Business Law and Ethics
Gardner Webb University is institutionally accredited to award affordable online MBA programs by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Its business programs are also separately accredited by the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). U.S. News & World Report has identified the school as a top national university.
Graduate Tuition: $9,000
5. Southeastern Oklahoma State University
Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s 1 year online MBA is offered through the AACSB-accredited John Massey School of Business. The 36-credit hour degree plan features a Leadership concentration and requires core course titles such as:
- Behavioral Management
- Accounting for Managers
- Strategic Management
- Data Analysis for Managers
Concentration-specific classes are also required and include:
- Management Information Systems
- Contemporary Issues in Management
- Competitive Advantage and Strategy
- Principle Centered Leadership and Ethics
Southeastern Oklahoma State University is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission to offer accelerated MBA programs. It has been recognized as one of the leading public schools in the nation by the U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $4,716
4. Tarleton State University
The affordable online master of management offering from Tarleton State University is not a 1 year online MBA, but rather a Master of Science program. The curriculum for the program features core management coursework such as:
- Strategic Business Planning & Policy
- Evidence Based Decision Making
- Managerial Statistics
- Managing Operations and Services
Both thesis and non-thesis tracks are available. Tarleton State holds institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Its business programs are also fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). The university has been called one of the top 35 public schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $4,137
3. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi offers one of the most affordable online MBA programs in our ranking. The 30-credit hour program can be completed within just 12 months of accelerated study and is offered entirely online. Core courses required for the degree include:
- Operations Management
- Software-Based Business Solutions
- Managerial Economics
- Organizational Behavior and Theory
Two elective classes from the following options are also required:
- Social Media Marketing
- Entrepreneurship
- Leadership
Toward the culmination of the program, students will also complete a capstone course in Administrative Strategy and Policy. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Texas A&M- Corpus Christi appears in U.S. News & World Report’s ranking of top public schools. The university’s College of Business is programmatically accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
Graduate Tuition: $3,568
2. Fayetteville State University
Students searching for affordable online MBA programs should consider the online Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in Management from Fayetteville State University. The 36-credit hour degree plan for the program is comprised of mostly core coursework, including classes such as:
- Leading Organizations
- Business and Society
- Managerial Economics
- Business Policy and Strategy
In addition to these required courses, students will also choose two elective classes from options like:
- International Business Management
- Management of Technology
- Total Quality Management
A capstone project in business management is also required for successful program completion. Fayetteville State is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The university’s Broadwell College of Business is also separately accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Its 1 year online MBA is one of the best in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $3,438
1. Fitchburg State University
The cheapest of the affordable online MBA programs in our ranking, Fitchburg State University’s Master of Business Administration in Management option can be completed in just one year of accelerated study. The curriculum for this IACBE-accredited program emphasizes real-world business applications and includes core classes such as:
- Corporate Finance
- Accounting Practices for Managers
- Organizational Behavior and Development
- Management Information Systems
Students who elect the Management concentration will enroll in additional courses like:
- Management Theory and Process
- Leadership and Culture
- Selected Topics in Management
Fitchburg State holds institutional accreditation from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Its 1 year online MBA program has been ranked among some of the nation’s best by U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $3,186
About Master’s in Management Programs
Effectively managing an organization requires a special skill set that includes a broad understanding of fundamental business concepts and specialized industry knowledge. That’s why many management positions are designed for applicants with a graduate degree in management or a related field of study. These programs cover advanced topics in business essentials such as marketing, human resources, project management, accounting, and global business. A master’s in management degree plan will often feature opportunities for students to specialize in a specific sub-field of business administration or leadership.
About Accelerated Online Master of Management Degrees
Advancements in online learning have made the process of earning an online master’s in management degree much faster and more convenient than ever before. Today, online learners have access to virtual classrooms and programs that enable them to progress through course material at their own pace, mastering high-level business skills and concepts without ever stepping foot into an academic building. For particularly ambitious students, accelerated online graduate programs in management provide a fast track to a master’s degree in management. These programs can be completed well under the two-year standard timeframe and cover the same material in less time.
Types of Online Master’s in Management Programs
Not all online master’s degree programs in management are the same. It’s important to know the distinctions when choosing a degree plan that’s right for you. Below, we’ll briefly discuss some of the common types of online graduate offerings in management you can expect to encounter in your search.
Full-Time Versus Part-Time Master of Management Online Programs
Working professionals with a desire to move up the corporate ladder need access to academic programs that fit their hectic schedules. That’s why many of the graduate management programs featured in our ranking offer part-time tracks. While full-time programs may move faster, these part-time options enable students to keep their day jobs and take on a lighter course load.
Hybrid Versus Fully Online Master’s in Management Options
Many business professionals find the convenience of an online master’s program appealing but don’t want to give up the interaction that a physical classroom environment provides. That’s where hybrid options come into play. These programs combine traditional and distance learning instruction to offer the perfect combination of flexibility and engagement. While most of the programs featured in our ranking are 100% online master’s in management programs, hybrid options are also available.
Online Master’s in Management Versus Online MBA Programs
Online master’s in management and online MBA programs are very similar offerings in terms of curriculum. There are some subtle differences, however. Generally speaking, online master’s in management options are designed for students with little prior business experience. In contrast, MBA options are geared more towards those with some work experience in management or administration. We’ve featured both types of programs in our ranking.
Accredited Online MBA Programs and Graduate Management Degrees: Admissions
One of the first things to consider when embarking on searching for the best online MBA programs (or MS in Management offerings) is the admissions requirements for such programs. You’ll be happy to know that a bachelor’s degree in virtually any field will all but qualify you for entry into one of these programs. Be prepared to submit additional documentation too, though, such as:
- Undergraduate Transcripts
- Minimum GPA
- Writing Samples/Essays
- Professional Resume
- Letters of Recommendation
- GMAT or GRE Score
Keep in mind that admissions criteria will vary from one school to the next, and some colleges and universities have stricter requirements than others.
Accelerated MBA Programs and Management Degrees: Curriculum
When considering the best online MBA programs or management degree plans for you, it’s important to examine the program’s curriculum. While the majority will cover very similar topics, including finance, leadership, and business law, for instance, the exact requirements will vary from program to program. Depending on the college or university you choose to attend, you can expect requirements ranging anywhere from 30 to 60 credit hours of coursework.
Perhaps even more importantly, different schools offer varying degrees of content customization opportunities, including different concentration and specialization options. On the other hand, some fast management degrees and accelerated MBA programs online feature prescribed curricula, meaning all courses comprising the degree plan are required and pre-determined. You’d be wise to select a program with coursework that matches your academic interests and career goals in management.
For your reference, we’ve listed some sample core courses and elective offerings typical of either an online master’s in management or an accelerated MBA program.
Sample Core Courses
- Managing People and Organizations
- Marketing Management
- Marketing Research for Managers
- Survey of Finance for Corporate Managers
- Financial Accounting Concepts
- Global Business Strategy
- Managerial Economics
- Organizational Development and Change Management
- Leading Ethically and Responsibly
- Innovation and Marketing
- Applied Organizational Research & Analysis
Sample Elective Classes
- Paradigms of Leadership
- Entrepreneurial Management
- Industrial Analysis and New Venture Development
- Customer Focused Entrepreneurship
- Global Impact: Cultural Psychology and Business Ethics
- Family Business Management
- Conflict Management in Business
- Leadership and Organizational Health
- Management Information Systems
- Data Mining and Business Technology
- Influence Strategies and Negotiation
Frequently-Searched Accelerated Master’s in Business Management Online
Georgetown University: Online Master of Science in Management – Offered through its McDonough School of Business, the accelerated online master’s in management program from Georgetown University is an MS option that can be completed in just 10 months of study. This full-time program includes dedicated career services for online students.
Florida International University: Professional MBA (PMBA) Online – The accelerated online MBA program from FIU is a PMBA offering that can be completed in just a year and a half of full-time study. This versatile management option features eight different specializations.
University of North Texas: Accelerated Online MBA – UNT offers its accelerated MBA programs online through its G. Brint Ryan College of Business. The school’s online MBA in Strategic Management can be completed in just 14 months.
University of North Carolina- Pembroke: 1 Year Online MBA – The accelerated MBA option from the University of North Carolina- Pembroke requires just 12 months of full-time study. This AACSB-accredited program requires a total of 36 credit hours of core and elective coursework.
Frequently-Asked Questions About Accelerated Online Master’s in Business Management Programs
Even the most determined prospective students are bound to have questions before enrolling in an accelerated MBA or graduate management degree program. Fortunately, we’re here to help. Below, our editors have addressed some of the most frequently posed questions about these types of online programs. The answers to these questions are intended to provide general guidance and information. For specific details about a particular school or program, please contact an admissions counselor.
Q: How much do accelerated MBA programs/master’s in management degrees cost?
A: The cost of your program will depend on the college or university you attend as well as any financial aid you receive. In our research for this ranking, we discovered programs for less than $4,000 per year and those that cost over $50,000 annually.
Q: How long does it take to complete accelerated graduate degree programs in management?
A: Again, it depends on the program. By definition, accelerated master’s degree programs can be completed in two years or less. While most of the options featured in our ranking are 1 year online MBA or MS in Management programs, the most accelerated option is the 10-month degree plan from Gardner Webb University.
Q: Which school offers the best accelerated MBA programs online?
A: Our editors’ pick for the best online accelerated MBA is the 1 year online MBA from Fitchburg State University. Still, the ideal program for you will be the one you choose after carefully considering factors like cost, scheduling options, and curriculum features.
Career Questions Related to Online Master of Business Management Degrees
Q: What can I do with a master’s in management online?
A: Whether you earn an accelerated MBA or MS in Management online, you’ll have many of the same career options. Some of these job opportunities include:
- Project Manager
- Entrepreneur
- Information Technology Manager
- Financial Advisor
- Small Business Owner
- Chief Executive Officer
- Account Manager
- Marketing Manager
- Human Resources Manager
- Business administration programs
Q: How much will I make with a graduate degree in management?
A: It’s impossible to predict your exact salary upon graduation. Still, PayScale reports the average annual salary for professionals with a master’s degree in business management to be just under $90,000 per year.
Q: Are careers in management in demand?
A: Yes! According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in management are currently growing faster than average.
Q: What professional organizations in management should I join?
A: With a graduate degree in management, there are several professional associations you should consider joining, including:
- American Management Association
- Project Management Institute
- Society for Human Resource Management
- American Marketing Association
- Association for Talent Development
- Association for Supply Chain Management
Sources:
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook
- National Center for Education Statistics (NCES): College Navigator
- PayScale: Job Salaries
Related:
TOP 25 MOST AFFORDABLE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY ONLINE PROGRAMS
30 PROS AND CONS FOR GETTING A FAST ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREE
ARE ONLINE MASTER’S PROGRAMS EASIER TO GET INTO?