Business Schools in the Midwest with Campus & Online MBA Programs
“Graduating from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University truly supported my transition from being a clinical pharmacist and healthcare provider to being a business executive.”
Maryam Khazraee, PharmD, MBA/MSEI, Clinical Pharmacist, Founder of RxPharmacist
Companies worldwide, from new startups to multinational corporations, need globally oriented minds with practical experience and well-connected professional networks. To uplevel their skills, experience, and connections, many aspiring managers and executives decide to seek a master of business administration, commonly referred to as an MBA. This graduate-level degree will help professionals acquire additional knowledge and hands-on training to pursue a higher-level position. Ultimately, obtaining an MBA degree is well worth the time and cost; a report published in the Financial Times in 2023 asserts that the salary range for graduates from 100 MBA programs worldwide was $105,971 to $226,359, which correlates to the average annual salary reported by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS May 2022) for management occupations at $131,200.
Obtaining a business degree is a common dream among those who hope to pursue a career in the corporate world. Indeed, a bachelor of science in business often provides the necessary information and experience to begin a job in accounting, finance, marketing, or another related area. That being said, many undergraduate degree-holders understand that while an undergraduate degree in business is beneficial, a professional with an MBA degree can be better qualified for executive leadership positions that provide tangible value to a company. This specialized business degree gives people a deeper knowledge of various customized disciplines and hands-on training.
In the past, many individuals opted against completing a graduate degree due to the rigorous time commitment required of face-to-face MBA programs, instead choosing to continue on the same path throughout their careers.
With the rise of online and hybrid MBA degree programs, business professionals can uplevel their educational and professional skills and networks without taking temporary leave from their careers. These online and hybrid degree programs are now offered by high-quality institutions throughout the Midwest, enticing many aspiring managers and executives.
Business professionals in the Midwest who have considered an MBA program but cannot commit to full-time studies or live far from a campus need not be deterred from achieving their educational and professional goals.
The following is a list of reputable online MBA programs in the Midwest and a salary table showing salary percentiles and the number of employed management professionals in Midwestern states.
Meet the Expert: Maryam Khazraee, PharmD, MBA/MSEI
Dr. Maryam Khazraee is a clinical pharmacist and an entrepreneur who created RxPharmacist, an edtech company. She brings diverse healthcare domain expertise from the U.S. FDA, hospital practice, and health insurance/pharmacy benefit management experiences. She received her doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) from the University of Florida and her MBA/MSEI (master of science in entrepreneurship and innovation) from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University. She currently works at Accenture, a global technology consulting firm.
BSchools.org: How has graduating from an MBA program enhanced your career?
Dr. Khazraee: Graduating from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University truly supported my transition from being a clinical pharmacist and healthcare provider to being a business executive. I transitioned from my healthcare and life sciences field into venture capital and entrepreneurship.
During my studies, the majority of the courses applied to real-world problems and solutions. I participated in an immersion trip to South Africa, served as president of the Entrepreneurship and Venture Capital Association (EVCA), and competed in a few MBA business competitions. So when deciding on an MBA program, look into what they can provide to you and what you can provide to them. I was excited to grow the EVCA school chapter, bring in venture capital speakers, and design pitch competitions to allow our student body to flourish. The Kelley program allowed for these opportunities so we can support our fellow students to get to the next level of their professional careers and dreams of being successful entrepreneurs.
Lastly, I overall enjoyed my fellow classmates during the program. Given that the MBA program often requires team-based projects, the Kelley School of Business did a great job rotating to different teams to encourage the networking aspect of the program.
BSchools.org: What is one piece of advice you would give to a prospective MBA student?
Dr. Khazraee: My advice to prospective MBA students is that I would start your MBA program after at least a few years of work experience. Getting work experience will help bridge that gap and understand the theories and topics you will learn during your MBA studies.
Additionally, get involved during your MBA program, network with your classmates, and faculty. Compete in the different business competitions and programs you can access while being an MBA student. Some of the best friendships and professional colleagues were made during my MBA program that I still keep in touch with to this day! I specifically chose the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University since they really care for the students. The student comes first and that shows through their actions and events. The faculty and staff truly care for the students and Kelley has a large alumni network.
Lastly, I really enjoyed going on-site for a week each year during the program since that fostered the student body community and relationships built during our MBA studies.
What are the Admissions Criteria for Online MBA Programs?
Admission requirements vary by institution, but there are some standard requirements. In general, accredited colleges and universities require applicants to prove the following:
- Undergraduate degree – Most institutions request official transcripts from all previously attended institutions of higher education
- Minimum GPA – Several online and hybrid MBA programs require a GPA of 2.5 or higher
- Professional experience – Work experience may not be a requirement for all programs; however, some institutions do require a minimum of one to three years
- Standardized test scores – such as the GMAT or GRE, are often required for admission; however, in recent years, many programs have waived the GMAT and GRE as an admissions requirement
- Letters of recommendation – from previous mentors or employers
- Language proficiency – International applicants may need to provide proof of proficiency in academic English with TOEFL and IELTS scores
MBA applicants should carefully review the admissions requirements of these programs to determine their eligibility for admission.
Online Business Schools in Illinois
Aurora University offers an online master of business administration (MBA) program that is flexible to accommodate different professional goals. Healthcare and leadership electives are available to students enrolled in this 36-credit program to specialize their studies further. The program can be completed in as little as one year of full-time study or two years part-time, all done online.
While students have the convenience of online learning, they are also encouraged to explore internship opportunities to gain practical experience in their field of expertise. The curriculum includes courses such as marketing management; leadership and organizational behavior; budgeting & financial management; operations management; and strategic management.
For those who want to broaden their skills, Aurora University also provides a dual-degree option, MSW/MBA, which takes four to five years to complete, totaling 84 credits. The dual-degree program’s courses are also fully online, but the MSW portion includes four field instruction internship courses – complementing the online instruction students receive.
| Location: Aurora, IL |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: One to two years |
Benedictine University is proud to offer a range of online MBA programs for students who are looking to pursue their career goals while balancing work and other responsibilities. The university provides students with two different paths: the accelerated online MBA and the traditional one-course-at-a-time MBA with concentrations in change management, talent management, digital marketing, and project management.
Additionally, the university has three dual degree programs: MBA/MPH, MSN/MBA, and MBA/MSMOB. These programs enable students to complete both degrees faster than if they pursued them separately, with the added benefit of obtaining two diplomas upon graduation.
| Location: Lisle, IL |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 12 to 22 months |
The Brennan School of Business at Dominican University offers a rigorous and innovative hybrid MBA program that prepares students to take on leadership roles in today’s ever-changing business landscape.
With a focus on analytical decision-making, strategic thinking, and ethical leadership, the program challenges students to develop a comprehensive understanding of business principles and practices. Students can balance their academic pursuits with professional and personal commitments through online coursework.
Students in this program will be immersed from day one in advanced-level coursework structured around key business themes in five modules: business problem solving, negotiation, and strategy; leadership and ethics; financial decision making; analytics and operations; and markets and consumers.
Electives are not required for this MBA degree, though students can earn a certificate in a particular discipline by taking at least two electives.
| Location: River Forest, IL |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 18 months |
Eastern Illinois University’s 18-month accelerated online MBA program requires seven core courses and eleven concentration courses or electives for graduation, which distinguishes itself in a few ways. First, EIU offers two fully online concentrations: applied management and geographic information sciences (GIS). Two other special programs—an accountancy concentration and a cybersecurity master’s degree—require partial residency at the Charleston campus to complete.
| Location: Charleston, IL |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 18 months |
With Governors State’s AACSB-accredited online master of business administration program, students can expect to gain the essential skills necessary for managing organizations and achieving increased profitability in the global marketplace. This MBA program is offered in a fully online or hybrid format.
The comprehensive curriculum is designed to equip students with the know-how to succeed in any general manager role, providing them with critical thinking, problem-solving, leadership, operations management, and international business skills. The flexibility of earning a degree online means students can benefit from a first-rate education while juggling the demands of a fulfilling career and home life.
| Location: University Park, IL |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 18 months |
Greenville University, a faith-based institution, offers a unique online master of business administration (MBA) program that can be completed in just two years on a part-time basis. The 40-credit online MBA program focuses on values-based leadership and includes topics such as ethical leadership, employee motivation, and building trusting relationships in the workplace from a Christ-centered perspective.
Designed specifically for working professionals, the program offers flexibility and affordability along with the opportunity to complete a required capstone project that showcases the student’s skills and knowledge gained. Applicants should be currently employed or hold a position with a significant amount of responsibility to ensure their success in completing this rigorous program.
| Location: Greenville, IL |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
Loyola’s Quinlan School of Business is located in one of Chicago’s most prestigious neighborhoods, the Magnificent Mile. Despite boasting a high-end address just steps from the iconic John Hancock Center and Water Tower Place, Loyola is more than just a pretty face.
As a Roman Catholic institution, they hold the values of ethical leadership and social responsibility close to their core. With a focus on developing successful, socially conscious executives, Loyola’s MBA program is a top choice for those looking to elevate their careers and make a positive impact in the business world.
Loyola’s highly-respected 20-month executive MBA program is offered in a hybrid format. The curriculum includes courses such as financial statement analysis and decision-making; strategic cost accounting; financial management; marketing management; and performance improvement in business processes.
Loyola University Chicago also offers a hybrid MBA program in healthcare management that comprises 51 credits.
| Location: Chicago, IL |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
Northern Illinois University’s online MBA program offered through NIU’s College of Business emphasizes practical skills and real-world applications. Students can complete the program in as little as 16 months through full-time study or choose to take up to three years part-time. The online curriculum is innovative and integrative, with interdisciplinary components.
This includes access to advanced business simulation tools, case studies, and projects to provide hands-on learning opportunities. Through eight-week courses, the program covers key business concepts and prepares graduates for success in the business world. One of the program’s most significant benefits is that out-of-state students pay in-state tuition.
| Location: DeKalb, IL |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 18 to 36 months |
Rasmussen University’s School of Business offers a solution with its 100 percent online MBA program. Utilizing Competency-Based Education (CBE), the program provides flexibility to busy students who can complete modules at their own pace while meeting defined competencies through real-world projects. With courses led by experienced faculty, students receive personal guidance and feedback and earn grades for completed work.
This 48-credit program includes courses such as accounting for business analysis; financial analysis and decision-making; corporate responsibility and sustainability; business intelligence and analytics; professional growth and leadership; organizational behavior and leadership; and value chain and operations management.
| Location: Multiple campuses in Illinois |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 18 months |
The College of Business and Analytics at Southern Illinois University offers students the opportunity to complete an online MBA program in an area of concentration: general or analytics for managers.
This program generally takes 23 months to complete and allows students to interact with other program participants while still studying at a distance. This 42-credit-hour program also allows students to apply who have not taken the GRE or GMAT, as long as they have at least five years of professional work experience before beginning their studies.
| Location: Carbondale, IL |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: One to two years |
The Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign provides an excellent online MBA program for busy professionals aiming to take their careers to the next level. The iMBA program is taught by world-class business faculty and industry experts and offers flexible and convenient learning options without compromising educational quality.
Students are equipped with practical skills and cutting-edge knowledge to tackle real-world business challenges, making them highly desirable to employers. The program’s innovative instructional design and focus on experiential learning provide students with unparalleled opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in a practical setting.
| Location: Champaign, IL |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 24 to 60 months |
Online Business Schools in Indiana
The online MBA offered through the Falls School of Business at AU is focused on helping students apply rigorous practical learning to a broad range of industries.
Students can choose a general MBA or one of three concentrations in marketing, operations management, or business analytics without extending the program’s length. The program comprises 36 credits.
Courses include business & society; managerial accounting; managerial economics; financial management; data visualization & analysis; marketing strategy; strategy & innovation; organizational behavior & leading change; and negotiation & conflict resolution.
GRE/GMAT scores are not required to apply to AU’s 100 percent online MBA program. AU is a Christian Faith-Based university operating on Church of God principles.
| Location: Anderson, IN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
The Miller College of Business at Ball State University offers an MBA program that was ranked 22nd in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, and that allows students a wide array of flexibility when customizing their studies.
To be sure, students can take courses on-campus, online, or a mixture of both. Furthermore, students can choose between different areas of concentration, including artificial intelligence, business analytics, construction management, finance, healthcare administration, information technology leadership, logistics and supply chain management, or general MBA. The school also offers three start dates per year (fall, spring, and summer) and allows students to complete the MBA program full-time or part-time.
Those who already possess a business degree will complete 30 to 31 credits, while those who do not have a business degree will complete up to 40 credits depending on how many foundation courses they need and which concentration they choose.
| Location: Muncie, IN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
The 100 percent online MBA offered by the Indiana Tech College of Business is for working professionals looking to gain the practical skills needed to advance into leadership positions or start their entrepreneurial journey.
Indiana Tech offers several MBAs in accounting; business analytics; global health leadership; healthcare management; human resources; management; marketing; professional studies; project management; sports administration; and supply chain management.
All MBA programs are 30 credit hours except for the accounting MBA, which requires students to complete 36 credit hours. Coursework includes executive leadership; economic decision-making for managers; accounting and finance decision-making for managers; marketing and innovation; statistical learning and analytics; and operations and technology management.
No GMAT or GRE scores are required for admission unless the student does not meet the minimum GPA requirement of 2.5. Despite the low GPA threshold, this program requires two years of significant work experience before admission.
MBA students must also have completed the following four prerequisite courses with a ‘C’ grade or better: principles of management, principles of marketing, accounting principles, and corporate or managerial finance. Applicants to the MBA in accounting must have 24 undergraduate credits in accounting, 24 credits outside of accounting in business and economics, and an accredited undergraduate degree.
| Location: Fort Wayne, IN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
The Kelley School of Business at Indiana University offers an online MBA degree and ranked first overall among online MBA programs by U.S. News & World Report in 2024. The program offers multiple start dates throughout the year, and students can complete the degree in two to five years, depending on their specific plan of study.
There are four main components for this 54-credit online MBA including the core courses, elective options, in-person requirements like Kelley On Campus, and experiential learning options. Students may choose to tailor their electives to a specific area, resulting in a major. Majors include business analytics, entrepreneurship and corporate innovation, digital technology management, marketing, finance, supply chain and operations, and strategy and leadership.
| Location: Bloomington, IN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two to four years |
Graduates of the online MBA at Indiana Wesleyan University DeVoe School of Business are prepared to become executive-level leaders in any industry, make informed decisions in fast-paced environments, utilize several disciplines for leadership, like management, accounting, economics, finance, and others, become effective communicators, and integrate personal values using DeVoe’s virtuous business model.
Coursework in the 36-credit program includes ethical and legal aspects of management; statistics for business decision-making; leadership and organizational change; and business strategy and policy.
No GRE/GMAT scores are required and those whose undergraduate GPA is less than 2.5 may still be admitted on a probationary basis. Courses at IWU are taught from a biblical perspective.
| Location: Marion, IN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 18 months |
Purdue Global’s School of Business and Information Technology offers an impressive online master of business administration program with a general track or one of seven concentrations. The program is entirely online, which is ideal for working professionals or individuals who prefer to study from the comfort of their own homes. This program stands out because of its optional concentrations, including finance, global business, healthcare management, human resources, information technology, marketing, and project management.
Moreover, the online MSN-MBA dual degree option with the executive leadership MSN concentration is another unique opportunity the School of Business and Information Technology provides. This dual degree reduces course load and shortens the duration, allowing students to complete both degrees in as little as 2.5 years. With 200 clinical hours and no campus visits or internships required, this online MBA program is excellent for individuals seeking a flexible yet challenging program that aligns with their career and personal goals.
| Location: West Lafayette, IN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
A competitively priced program, the 100 percent online MBA offered through the Ketner School of Business at Trine University focuses on delivering a high ROI to professionals looking to advance their skills in business and finance.
Trine has seven specialized tracks that students can choose from. These include a self-design option and concentrations in accounting, analytics, finance, management, human resource management, or marketing. Made up of 30 credits, the program’s core curriculum includes courses such as executive communication; corporate finance; managerial accounting for MBA; strategic marketing management; micro & macro economic decision making; statistics and quantitative methods; and a business administration capstone.
GRE/GMAT scores are only required for those who do not have an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution. The minimum undergraduate GPA threshold for admission to Trine is 3.0; however, students with a lower GPA can apply for conditional admission by submitting a one-page narrative explaining the circumstances of their GPA, an additional letter of recommendation, and a CV demonstrating applicable knowledge and skills.
| Location: Angola, IN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
| Expected Time to Completion: One to two years |
The online MBA at the University of Saint Francis is an immersive program with a quantitative business focus utilizing a cased-based, problem-solving methodology that enables professional and personal transformation. Focusing on business ethics, business operations, and personal values-based decision-making, students in this program will study the real-world issues that impact the future and current business environment while building leadership skills and learning valuable team-building proficiency.
Notably, the program is offering an Educational First (EF) Tours Business Immersion trip to Germany, France, Austria, and Switzerland in May 2024. This tour is an 11-day excursion to several businesses, industries, and landmarks in both cities and the trip costs are eligible for Financial Aid.
Coursework in the 36-credit-hour programs includes managerial accounting; operations management; Franciscan values and ethics in business; principles of supply chain management; strategic management; managerial economics; managerial finance; business analytics; production analytics; and organizational culture and behavior for leaders.
GRE and GMAT scores are not required to apply to any USF online MBA programs unless the applicant does not have an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited university.
| Location: Fort Wayne, IN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: One to two years |
The University of Southern Indiana (USI) offers an impressive online MBA program with a wide range of concentrations to choose from. Apart from the general path, students can specialize in accounting; data analytics; engineering management; healthcare administration; human resources; marketing; supply chain management; or project management.
This accelerated program can be completed in just 12 months or more through eight-week courses that cover essential areas, including leadership skills, information systems, technology, managerial economics, marketing, strategic management, accounting, and international management. While the GMAT is usually required, waiver options are available, making this online MBA accessible to more students. The program has three fall, spring, and summer start dates, offering more flexibility. Students can expect a quality education from the Romain College of Business at USI.
| Location: Evansville, IN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 12 to 24 months |
Online Business Schools in Iowa
Drake University’s online master of business administration (MBA) offers a flexible and individually tailored approach to furthering one’s career in today’s dynamic business landscape. Whether applicants are looking to specialize in healthcare management or business analytics or prefer a more individualized track, the online MBA program from the College of Business & Public Administration provides a comprehensive curriculum designed to be completed part-time in two years. The GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.
With fully online courses, an 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio, and a collaborative learning environment, students can engage in meaningful discussions with professors and peers alike.
This online MBA includes several areas of emphasis: business analytics; accounting; healthcare management; leadership & human capital development; cybersecurity; public and nonprofit management; and an individualized track where students select nine credits tailored to their unique interests from among all specialization courses offered.
Comprising 36 credits, the program includes courses such as financial reporting and analysis; creating customer value through marketing; corporate finance; leadership & human capital development; information technology and business; and business government and global economy.
| Location: Des Moines, IA |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
The Debbie and Jerry Ivy College of Business at Iowa State University offers a professional MBA program that is offered fully online or as a hybrid, with one class each week that meets in person in downtown Des Moines. This part-time MBA program gives students the full Ivy experience.
Students in this program may pursue an optional area of specialization in areas such as accounting; accounting analytics; business analytics; entrepreneurship; finance; healthcare analytics and operations; information systems; leadership; marketing; real estate; and supply chain management.
Notably, the university has a renowned full-time MBA program that has continuously proven to be a path to success. The full-time Ivy MBA program has recently jumped six places in the Best Graduate Schools rankings by U.S. News & World Report. With state-of-the-art facilities, exemplary internship support, and career coaching, Ivy MBA students are well-equipped for the competitive job market.
| Location: Ames, IA |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
The online MBA offered by the Maharishi University of Management allows students to choose from a variety of specializations online or on campus. It not only provides students with practical, job-oriented knowledge but also a space to grow on a personal level. Online specializations are available in Sustainable Business, Leadership and Workplace Conflict Resolution, and SAP Enterprise Resource Planning (online & on-campus).
In addition, MUM is a radically different program than other MBA programs because of the focus on inner growth for students through methodologies like transcendental meditation.
Students in this program need to fulfill the degree requirement of 58 credits of study consisting of 18 credits of the MBA foundation requirement and 40 credits covering one specialization area as well as university requirements and elective courses.
| Location: Fairfield, IA |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Three years |
An extension of the brick-and-mortar program offered for over 60 years, the University of Iowa’s online MBA program enables graduates to become more competitive in the job market and launch management careers based on achievement. The program offers six concentration options in leadership; business analytics; finance; innovation; marketing; and healthcare management.
Coursework in the 45-credit-hour program includes marketing management; managerial economics; corporate financial reporting; operations and supply chain; and foundations in strategy. Electives in the program are offered in subjects including entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, and management and business analytics.
GMAT or GRE scores are not required for admission.
| Location: Iowa City, IA |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association for the Advancement of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
The 100 percent online MBA offered through the School of Business and Professional Studies at Upper Iowa University prepares students for ethical decision-making and management through a forward-thinking curriculum. Students enrolled in the 36-credit-hour program can choose one of seven MBA emphases: general management; accounting; corporate financial management; human resources management; organizational development; sports administration; and leadership.
Coursework in the program includes organizational strategy and economic change; current issues in corporate law and ethics; corporate entrepreneurship and sustainability; and marketing and product management. Applicants may submit GMAT or GRE scores to strengthen their application, but submitting scores is not required. A 2.75 undergraduate cumulative GPA, or a 3.0 GPA in the most recent 60 credit-hours is also required to apply. Work experience is recommended, but not required.
| Location: Fayette, IA |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
Online Business Schools in Kansas
The 100 percent online MBA offered through the ESU School of Business promises to deliver students a rigorous curriculum at an exceptional value with immediate, practical applications. Students can apply to pursue a general MBA track or can choose to concentrate in accounting, information systems, or marketing.
Coursework in the program includes managerial economics; behavioral aspects of management; information systems for managerial decisions; and marketing strategy. The program comprises 33 credits.
Applicants to the program must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, official transcripts from all colleges and universities previously attended, and a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
| Location: Emporia, KS |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 12 months |
The MBA offered through the Robbins College of Business is 100 percent online, designed to help busy professionals advance into management with a global mindset and increase their marketability.
Students enrolled in the program can choose a general MBA or one of 14 concentrations, including, agribusiness; corporate communication; digital marketing; finance; healthcare management; health and human performance/sports management; human resource management (HRM); information assurance; international business; leadership studies; management information systems; operations management; marketing, and tourism and hospitality management.
Coursework in the 33-credit program includes advanced managerial accounting; marketing management; information systems for management; business research and quantitative methods; managerial economics; advanced corporate finance; strategic management; and organizational behavior in a global context.
GMAT or GRE scores are not required for admission to the MBA program.
| Location: Hays, KS |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: One to three years |
The professional MBA at Friends University prepares graduates for significant professional positions with a solid foundation in business fundamentals and an entrepreneurial mindset through the lens of Quaker values. Students enrolled in the program can either choose the general MBA or focus on one of the six concentration options. Concentrations include accounting; human resources; change management; supply chain management; project management; and sports administration.
Coursework in the 30-credit-hour program includes leadership as a calling; business diversity and cross-cultural communication; marketing: a worldview (domestic and global); and managerial accounting. GMAT scores are not required to apply. Students who choose a concentration to complete their MBA will complete 36 credits.
| Location: Wichita, KS |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
| Expected Time to Completion: One to two years |
The theme of the curriculum for the online MBA offered through the College of Business Administration at Kansas State University is “intrapreneurship”—an entrepreneurial attitude toward problem-solving within an organization.
Coursework in the 36-credit program includes marketing concepts and research; managing the triple bottom line business; operations and supply chain management; and information technology strategy and application.
Currently, the university does not require the GMAT or GRE for any programs.
| Location: Manhattan, KS |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two to three years |
The Kelce College of Business offers a professional master of business administration (MBA) degree. This program prepares students for the workforce by offering six emphases or concentrations: general administration; international business; accounting; marketing; human resources; and healthcare administration.
The program consists of 30 credit hours, seven core courses, and three electives. Core courses include management control systems; quantitative business analysis; leadership and behavioral management; business, government, and society; financial strategy; marketing strategy; and strategic management.
| Location: Pittsburg, KS |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: One to two years |
The 100 percent online MBA at Southwestern College is designed to help graduates pursue careers in a wide variety of fields. This institution is affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Graduates in this program acquire the knowledge and skills in business leadership and management that can be applied to their current profession as well as upper-level management roles.
Coursework in this 33-credit program includes global operations; organizational dynamics and change; business law and ethics; and technology and innovation management. GMAT scores are not required to apply. Students without a business background or professional experience may have to complete two prerequisite courses in economics and accounting.
| Location: Winfield, KS |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
The online MBA offered through the School of Business at KU prepares graduates for global leadership in the evolving, contemporary business arena. Students enrolled in the 42-credit program can choose to focus on finance, marketing, or management and leadership.
Coursework in the program includes accounting; business law and ethics; managing people; and international business. GMAT scores are not required to apply. While work experience is not required to apply, two or more years of work experience are preferred.
| Location: Lawrence, KS |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 27 months |
The University of Saint Mary offers a fully online MBA program with one of eight concentrations: finance; general management; healthcare management; human resources management; leadership; marketing; analytics; and accounting.
The degree consists of 33 credits and can be completed in just one year by taking two courses per eight-week term or two years by taking one course per term. The curriculum includes core courses such as organizational and human resource management; marketing management; managerial economics; legal environment and commercial transactions; managerial accounting; managerial finance; global management; and strategic management and ethics.
No GMAT/GRE test scores are required. Work experience is not required but is considered part of the admissions process.
| Location: Leavenworth, KS |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) |
| Expected Time to Completion: One to two years |
As the oldest MBA program in Kansas, Wichita State University boasts a rich tradition in graduate studies in business. With a curriculum designed to cater to working professionals, the program offers flexibility and convenience through its hybrid MBA program. Students in the program can interact with experienced faculty members who bring real-world insights into the classroom. The hybrid MBA program at Wichita State is tailored to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in today’s rapidly changing business landscape.
Concentration options are available in healthcare administration; human resource management; marketing; and finance. Students with a bachelor’s degree in business will need to take 36 credits of the MBA coursework and students without an undergraduate degree in business may need up to 51 credits to complete their MBA degree.
| Location: Wichita, KS |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 12 to 24 months |
Online Business Schools in Michigan
Andrews University offers comprehensive MBA and PhD programs in business administration, which are highly regarded among business leaders and academics. The on-campus and online MBA courses are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle the challenges of today’s dynamic business world. The program emphasizes integrating Christian ethical principles with business concepts, ensuring that students develop a sense of social responsibility and commitment to serve the community.
With online MBA courses, students can learn and interact with expert faculty members from anywhere in the world, providing them the flexibility needed to balance their academic pursuits with professional and personal obligations. Andrews University’s MBA and PhD programs offer an opportunity for students to develop their leadership potential and prepare for responsible positions in domestic and international business, government, and not-for-profit organizations.
Students in the online MBA program will complete 33 credits if they have a bachelor’s of business administration or equivalent degree. Up to 13 credits of prerequisites will be required for those who possess non-business majors.
| Location: Berrien Springs, MI |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 12 months (MBA) |
Calvin University is a reputable institution that offers an exceptional online master of business administration (MBA) program. The 36-credit program is available in three distinct tracks, including a general track or in one of two concentrations: business analytics or nonprofit management. Students in the program are equipped to make intelligent, remarkably ethical business decisions, navigate intricate problems, address complex business concerns, and develop highly effective business strategies that consider social responsibility.
Moreover, experienced faculty members mentor students and prioritize building meaningful relationships and ensuring students achieve both academic and professional success. The online MBA program is taught through a Christian worldview and is available in both part-time and full-time paths with small class sizes – all working together to ensure students graduate well-prepared for their industries.
| Location: Grand Rapids, MI |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 12 to 24 months |
CSU’s online MBA—ranked as one of the best by U.S. News and World Report—is designed to prepare students for leadership in the global economy. Students can enroll in a wide range of emphases, including business data analytics; entrepreneurship; cybersecurity; finance; human resource management; health systems leadership; information systems; marketing; logistics management; value-driven organization; and project management.
Coursework in the 36-credit MBA programs includes instruction in managing information systems in a global economy; managing and leading individuals and groups in organizations; data analysis for managers; and global business and sustainability.
Applicants must have at least a 2.7 undergraduate GPA.
| Location: Mount Pleasant, MI |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: One to two years |
FSU’s online MBA program boasts several industry-seasoned professors to give students insight into the business world.
Courses in the 30-credit program include managers and the legal environment; global business management; accounting for managers; corporate finance; leadership and organizational change; data analytics; information systems strategy; strategic marketing decisions; managerial economics; and business strategy and innovation.
GMAT or GRE scores are not required for admission.
| Location: Big Rapids, MI |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two to three years |
Kettering University offers a unique and customizable online master of business administration program to help professionals from industries like engineering and healthcare advance in their careers. This program is designed to elevate individuals to higher-level management positions and increase their career opportunities within their respective fields.
With its distinguished faculty and comprehensive curriculum, Kettering University’s online MBA program provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive business environment. Whether students are looking to advance in their current position or transition to a new industry altogether, Kettering’s online MBA program can help them achieve their goals and take their careers to the next level.
This 40-credit online MBA includes seven core courses plus one of the several three-course graduate certificates. Certificate options include global leadership; operations management; lean principles in healthcare; management and leadership; supply chain–level I; and supply chain–level II.
GRE or GMAT scores are not required for admission.
| Location: Flint, MI |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 18 months |
Blending theory and practice in small class sizes taught by professors who are actively engaged in business, LTU’s 100 percent online MBA is highly ranked by U.S. News and World Report. Students enrolled in the 36-credit-hour program can choose between the following four concentrations: cybersecurity; finance; information technology; and project management.
Classes in the program include global business economics; strategic marketing management; global leadership; and enterprise information technology.
GMAT scores are required only for those whose undergraduate GPA is less than 3.0. Applicants with a GPA lower than 3.0 previously admitted to a master’s program also qualify for a GMAT waiver.
| Location: Southfield, MI |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
Forging the balance between quality and affordability, the 100 percent online MBA at SVSU’s College of Business and Management is designed to turn professionals into leaders who can operate in complex for-profit and nonprofit environments.
Students in the 30- to 46-credit program can choose the general MBA or can concentrate on entrepreneurship or health administration. Courses in the program include business process design and management; social responsibility and ethics; leadership and organizational behavior; and integrated marketing management concepts.
| Location: University Center, MI |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
The Stephen M. Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan is known worldwide for its MBA programs. The part-time MBA program Michigan Ross offers is the ideal choice for working professionals who aspire to strengthen their leadership skills. This program encompasses 57 credit hours of courses specifically designed for working students. Courses include principles of financial accounting; principles of management accounting; applied microeconomics; business law and ethics; financial management; leading people & organizations; and corporate strategy.
As an online MBA program, the courses are a mix of real-world learning and high-quality faculty instruction through asynchronous and synchronous classes. The program also includes three on-campus residencies that allow working students to participate in an in-person learning experience. With a strong emphasis on blending different learning environments, students can decide to attend the on-campus classes in Ann Arbor after completing foundational courses.
| Location: Ann Arbor, MI |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Three years |
Online Business Schools in Minnesota
Bemidji State University’s School of Graduate Studies offers a 100 percent online MBA program that is both comprehensive and rigorous. Students can expect to receive personalized attention and a curriculum that places emphasis on strategic leadership. One unique aspect of BSU’s program is that qualified accounting and business undergraduates can complete four MBA courses in their final year, putting them on track to complete an MBA within one year following graduation.
Made up of 30 credits, the program includes courses such as business analytics; managerial finance; corporate social responsibility; global business; organizational behavior; marketing management; and managing human resources.
| Location: Bemidji, MN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: One to two years |
The online MBA offered by Bethel University strives to provide a unique approach to professional development, by integrating a Christian worldview into managerial and personal growth. This program promises a diverse and comprehensive education, encouraging intellectual, personal, ethical, and spiritual progress for its students.
This robust MBA program comprises a total of 42 credits, with 30 credits of core curriculum and 12 credits in any one of the eight concentration options. Four concentrations are offered through Bethel University and the remaining four concentrations are offered through an agreement with MITx.
Concentrations include data, economics, and design of policy; finance; healthcare administration; management; principles of manufacturing; strategy and execution; statistics and data science; and supply chain management.
With coursework ranging from managerial accounting and global finance to personal agency and leadership theory, this program offers a holistic approach to business education, promising to equip graduates with the intellectual and moral aptitude required of top business executives.
| Location: St. Paul, MN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 18 to 24 months |
Capella University’s School of Business and Technology offers a fully online MBA program, designed to provide students a flexible approach to acquiring advanced management skills. The program offers two learning paths- GuidedPath and FlexPath- each tailored to meet the diverse needs of students. The online MBA program is available in a self-designed path or in one of the three specializations: healthcare management, human resource management, and project management. The beauty of the guided-path learning option is that it is a traditional course-based pathway with deadlines, grades, and peer interaction.
Regardless of the learning pathway choice, Capella’s MBA program is designed to help students build leadership skills, navigate the ever-changing business landscape, and grow a strong network of professionals.
Capella also offers an online doctor of business administration (DBA) program featuring three specializations in general management, organizational leadership and development, and strategy and motivation.
| Location: Minneapolis, MN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Contact the school for a customized assessment |
Concordia University St. Paul’s (CSP) College of Business and Technology offers an exceptional online MBA program designed for professionals seeking to further their education and enhance their careers. With options for a general and healthcare management track, the program provides students with a comprehensive curriculum taught in seven-week intervals through a cohort-based format.
Additionally, the program includes three one-credit courses focused on vocation and professional value, the mastery of future industry, career reflection, and a map to personal and career goals. However, the program’s standout feature is the MBA mentorship program, allowing students to form a one-on-one relationship with an alumnus. This program offers guidance, advice, networking opportunities, interpersonal communication, and help throughout the program. Through this program, students can gain invaluable skills and experiences that will benefit them throughout their careers.
| Location: St. Paul, MN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
The online MBA offered through the Crown College School of Business provides a unique opportunity for students to develop their leadership skills from a Christian perspective. With coursework covering theoretical and spiritual foundations of leadership, this program graduates students who are prepared to lead from a faith-based perspective in the non-profit, government, and private sectors. Students interested in the program can choose between a general MBA or a concentration in nonprofit management.
The 36-credit program covers essential topics such as strategic planning for leaders, business law and ethics, and managerial economics. What sets this program apart is that it does not require GMAT or GRE scores for admission, making it an accessible option for aspiring business leaders looking for a quality online education. The only requirement is a 2.5 cumulative undergraduate GPA from an accredited university.
| Location: Saint Bonifacius, MN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: One to two years |
Minnesota State University, Mankato’s College of Business offers an online MBA program that provides a flexible and convenient structure for students. The program offers both synchronous and asynchronous delivery, which allows students to complete their studies at a time that suits their schedules. Through the online MBA program, aspiring business leaders can gain the skills and experience necessary to navigate the challenges of a global business economy.
With a focus on leadership and managerial skills, ethics, and real-world experience, students will be well-equipped to achieve their career goals. The online MBA program at Minnesota State University, Mankato, is the perfect avenue for busy professionals who want to earn an advanced degree in business management.
Comprising 36 credits, the program includes courses such as economic analysis for managers; legal and ethical environment of business; accounting for management; investment and financial decisions; management of human resources; information technology and systems management; managing behavior in a changing world; and global business strategy.
| Location: Mankato, MN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
The Paseka School of Business at MSU Moorhead is home to an online MBA program for professionals seeking to enhance their leadership skills with analytical business approaches. This program offers a flexible way to earn an advanced degree in either a general MBA or with an emphasis in areas such as finance & accounting; healthcare; or management. Students can also choose the personalized emphasis that allows students to customize their MBA degree to fit their career goals.
The 37-credit program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive curriculum in marketing management; financial management; organizational behavior; and international marketing.
To apply, students must have achieved a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (or 3.25 in the final 30 credit hours) and submit GMAT/GRE scores. The program has the additional benefit of being 100 percent online with no face-to-face or on-campus attendance required.
| Location: Moorhead, MN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
Rasmussen University’s School of Business offers a cutting-edge online MBA program. What sets this program apart is its focus on Competency-Based Education (CBE), allowing students to complete courses based on their acquired skills. This innovative approach to learning allows students to complete their MBA in a matter of months while still enjoying expert faculty-led instruction and support. Whether applicants are busy professionals seeking to hone their skills or recent graduates looking to further their education, Rasmussen University’s online MBA program provides the flexibility and rigor necessary for success.
This 48-credit program includes courses such as accounting for business analysis; financial analysis and decision-making; corporate responsibility and sustainability; business intelligence and analytics; professional growth and leadership; organizational behavior and leadership; and value chain and operations management.
| Location: Multiple campuses in Minnesota |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 18 months |
St. Cloud University offers an online MBA that is designed for working professionals with three years to five years of professional work experience. Graduates of this program will be ready for roles such as financial analysts, fund development administrators, real estate executives, corporate strategists, project managers, and marketing communications managers.
Concentration options are available in accounting; finance; information systems; management & leadership; professional sales; and supply chain management.
Core courses in this 30-credit program include organizational behavior; financial accounting; financial management; information systems strategy and management; operations management; and marketing strategy and management.
| Location: St. Cloud, MN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 18 months |
Pursuing an online MBA at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota’s Graduate School of Business and Technology is an intelligent decision for students seeking to enhance their managerial careers. This 100 percent accelerated program offers an academic pathway for individuals determined to achieve a postgraduate degree in the fastest way possible and with the flexibility of completing it entirely online.
Notably, Saint Mary also offers graduate certificates that students can stack with their MBA degree to accelerate their advancement potential. They can waive two courses if they add a certificate to their MBA program. Certificates are available in artificial intelligence; business analytics; cybersecurity management; finance; healthcare administration; healthcare analytics; human resource management; individual and team leadership; nonprofit management; organizational change and leadership; and project management.
The coursework in the 30 to 36-credit program is tailored to provide comprehensive insights into vital topics, including corporate finance; organizations and human behavior; managerial economics; operations management; marketing strategy; and quantitative decision-making, among others.
| Location: Winona, MN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 12 to 24 months |
The world of business is constantly changing, and the Curtis L. Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota recognizes the need for an adaptive and customizable MBA program. The online MBA that the school offers allows students to tailor their education to their needs and career interests by offering a wide range of electives in areas such as finance, marketing, and even medical industry leadership.
Despite being an online program, the UofM course structure ensures that students experience valuable in-person residencies and global experiences to enhance their learning. The program’s comprehensive courses include data analysis, managerial economics, and business ethics, equipping students with the skills and knowledge to succeed in the data-driven age of business.
| Location: Minneapolis, MN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
The University of Northwestern, St. Paul’s Graduate Studies Program offers a unique and flexible online MBA degree that stands out in the world of business education. With a 42-credit curriculum incorporating faith-based teachings and the most current leadership and business administration skills, this program provides students with the knowledge needed to manage and excel in today’s increasingly complex business environments.
Students in this program can choose from five concentrations: general; management; healthcare management; finance; and data analytics. Whether looking to advance a career or become an effective catalyst for innovation, this affordable program offers the technical skills and resources necessary to succeed.
| Location: Minneapolis, MN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 22 to 26 months |
The St. Thomas Part-time Flex MBA Program is the ideal choice for working professionals who want to expand their education and knowledge while maintaining their busy schedules. What sets this program apart from others is its maximum flexibility. Students can tailor the St. Thomas Part-time Flex MBA Program to their preferences and lifestyle, unlike traditional MBA programs. Those preferring remote learning experiences can opt for a 100 percent online MBA. Additionally, students can choose to attend classes in person or a combination of both.
Made up of 45 credits, the program includes courses such as business ethics foundations; statistical methods for decision-making; competitive strategy; entrepreneurial thinking; financial accounting; legal strategy; operations strategy; financial management; managerial economics; and marketing frameworks.
| Location: Minneapolis, MN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
The Walden University School of Management offers a comprehensive and flexible online MBA program. One unique aspect of the program is that the MBA offers two learning pathways: course-based and competency-based.
While the course-based program follows a traditional structure, the competency-based approach emphasizes mastering essential skills. This innovative approach to learning is just one example of how Walden University is dedicated to providing students with a high-quality education that prepares them for success in today’s global marketplace. Walden University also offers a doctor of business administration (DBA).
| Location: Minneapolis, MN |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 18-30 months |
To learn more about attending an online business program in this state, check out the online MBA programs in Minnesota guide.
Online Business Schools in Missouri
Avila University’s 100 percent online master of business administration (MBA) is a flexible and convenient way for working professionals to advance their careers without sacrificing their commitments. Boasting nine concentrations, from accounting to strategic human resources, this program provides students with specialized knowledge in their chosen field. As a Catholic institution, Avila incorporates values-based education into its curricula, emphasizing the importance of ethical responsibility and preparing graduates to be lifelong contributors to the global community.
This top-tier education can be completed in as few as 12 months, without any on-campus requirements or the need for GRE/GMAT test scores. Core courses cover various subjects, from financial accounting to global strategic management, ensuring that students are well-equipped to succeed in today’s complex business world.
| Location: Kansas City, MO |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 12 months |
Maryville University John E. Simon School of Business offers an online MBA program with 12 concentrations that can be completed in just one year and is 100 percent online. The general track consists of 36 credits and the concentrations consist of 39 credits. Concentrations or certificates include accounting; cybersecurity incident response; data analytics; cybersecurity penetration testing; emerging and digital media; finance; health administration; human resources management; management; marketing; project management; and software development.
The Maryville online MBA focuses on quickly advancing professional careers while providing students with a phenomenal, hands-on, fully online education. No work experience or GMAT/GRE test scores are required. Classes are delivered with live streaming and asynchronous lectures and assignments. Maryville has partnerships with many prominent businesses in the U.S. and worldwide, promoting networking and real-world application of business principles.
| Location: St. Louis, MO |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
| Expected Time to Completion: One year |
The online MBA offered through the College of Business at Missouri State is 100 percent online, striking a balance between quality and affordability. Students at Missouri State can choose to complete a graduate certificate in conjunction with their MBA and can do so within the 34-credit program.
Choices for graduate certificates include cybersecurity; data analytics; entrepreneurship; finance; financial analysis; forensic accounting; information technology; international business; leadership; management; marketing; quantitative enterprise risk management; and tax accounting. Classes in the MBA program include management information systems; advanced financial management; organization strategy and policy; and quantitative methods in business decision-making.
GMAT/GRE scores are required for admission to Missouri State, but waivers may be available to those with a 3.25 GPA and who have a Missouri State or AACSB-accredited business degree.
| Location: Springfield, MO |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
A part-time 100 percent online program, the MBA at Missouri S&T is focused on graduating business leaders who successfully implement strategies and get results by thinking critically and strategically across business functions.
Courses in the 36-credit-hour program include team building and leadership; international marketing; integration of business areas; and artificial intelligence, robotics, and information systems management.
Students can choose an area of expertise within their MBA by pursuing a predetermined graduate certificate course of study in business analytics and data science; management and leadership; financial technology; finance; entrepreneurship and technological innovation; digital supply chain management; business project management; business intelligence; and enterprise resource planning (ERP).
GMAT/GRE scores are required for admission and the applicant’s undergraduate GPA must be 3.0 or higher.
| Location: Rolla, MO |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two to three years |
The Northwest Missouri State University offers an online MBA to help students advance into leadership in a way that reflects the dynamic changes in responsibility occurring for business leaders across the world.
Professionals interested in Northwest’s online MBA can choose between a general MBA or one of the following concentrations: agricultural economics; management; geographic information systems; human resource management; business analytics; accounting; finance; healthcare management; or marketing.
Courses in the 30-credit-hour program include macroeconomics for business managers; business decision analysis tools; organizational behavior in administration; and strategic marketing.
Applicants to the program must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, a GPA of at least 2.5, a resume detailing professional experience, and three years of work experience or acceptable GMAT/GRE scores.
| Location: Maryville, MO |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 12 to 18 months |
The Helzberg School of Management at Rockhurst University has designed a fully online master of business administration program for professionals seeking to enhance their practical skills and theoretical knowledge in business. This online MBA provides the convenience of a flexible schedule and offers one-on-one interaction with top-tier faculty, videos of live classes, discussion boards, and case studies.
Moreover, individuals may specialize in one of several concentration options. Core courses include managerial communications; financial analysis; global markets; financial strategy and decision-making; organizational behavior; marketing strategy; and corporate social responsibility.
Regardless of the concentration, students are offered small class sizes and the opportunity to complete the degree in as little as one year through an accelerated pathway or two years part-time. The program’s excellence is attested by its accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
| Location: Kansas City, MO |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: One to two years |
The online MBA offered through the Harrison College of Business and Computing at Southeast Missouri State University prepares students for the contemporary business world through a blend of leadership development and hands-on training to build the capacity to adapt to local and global change.
Students enrolled in the MBA program can choose a general management MBA or have two concentration options: accounting or health administration. Courses in the 33-credit-hour program include organizational behavior in practice; quantitative and qualitative research methods; the financial environment; strategic decision-making; strategic marketing; strategic cost analysis & financial applications; and integrated decision information systems.
Applicants are required to submit GMAT/GRE scores. Southeast utilizes an admission index to determine the needed GPA, whereby the higher the GMAT/GRE score, the lower the undergraduate GPA, and vice versa. Applicants must have completed all prerequisite coursework with a “C” grade or higher.
| Location: Cape Girardeau, MO |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: One to two years |
The University of Central Missouri’s master of business administration program offers a unique opportunity to earn an MBA in general business online from any location. Not limited by geographic constraints, this flexible attendance option is ideal for busy business professionals, international students, or student-athletes who must balance their coursework with their other commitments.
The online MBA program is fully accredited and highly ranked, designed to explore different business aspects and help students develop the skills to lead an organization effectively. With the flexibility and affordability of our online MBA, students can begin their path to success at any of five points in the year.
This 33-credit program includes courses such as accounting for managers; information management systems; economic analysis for business decisions; short-term financial management; management & strategy; and marketing research design.
In addition to the general business concentration this MBA offers concentration options in airport management; finance; healthcare administration; interdisciplinary/individualized; international business; management and organizational leadership; marketing; public relations; and sports business.
| Location: Warrensburg, MO |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
The University of Missouri – Saint Louis’ College of Business Administration offers an exceptional online master of business administration (MBA) program. Catering to professionals with work experience who want to elevate their career prospects, this accelerated program provides the flexibility and experiences most sought after in a business graduate degree. Its online format allows students to balance academic learning with busy work and life schedules. The small class sizes and cohort model provide networking opportunities and the ability to learn from classmates’ work experiences.
Made up of 33 credits, the program includes courses such as financial and managerial accounting; managerial communication; law, ethics, and business; financial management; management information systems; managing and leading in organizations; integrated marketing strategies; and supply chain strategies.
| Location: St. Louis, MO |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 16 months |
The Webster University’s George Herbert Walker School of Business & Technology offers a unique hybrid option for those seeking to pursue an MBA. With the option to attend classes in person or online, students can tailor their learning experience to their lifestyle and schedule. The online MBA program provides even more flexibility, allowing students to complete their degrees from anywhere in the world.
With specializations in corporate finance and cybersecurity, students can customize their degrees to match their career goals. Webster’s commitment to flexible education options and its top-notch curriculum make it an excellent choice for those looking to advance their careers in the business world.
Specialization areas include corporate communications; cybersecurity; corporate finance; enterprise resource planning; digital marketing management; health administration; international business; information technology management; project management; and marketing.
| Location: St. Louis, MO |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 2.5 years |
The online MBA at William Woods University School of Business prepares graduates for next-level leadership designed for smart risks, agile, and productive team-building, and the ability to navigate demanding, diverse, and ever-changing business climates.
Students in the 30-credit-hour program complete courses in human resources and organizational behavior; managerial ethics; management systems; management and leadership; economics for managers; accounting for managers; legal environment of business, government, and society; finance; data analytics for business; financial decisions; and integrated studies in business administration.
| Location: Fulton, MO |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
Online Business Schools in Nebraska
The 100 percent online MBA offered through the College of Business at Bellevue University is focused on preparing students to achieve measurable success by helping them build and practice real-world skills.
Notably, students enrolled at Bellevue can choose between 21 concentrations, including accounting; acquisition and contract management; business analytics; cybersecurity; entrepreneurship; finance; global economic threat environment; healthcare; human capital management; human resource management; information security management; interdisciplinary business; interdisciplinary; international management; management; management information systems; marketing; professional communication; project management; supply chain management; and tax.
Coursework in the 36 to 39-credit-hour program includes marketing and new media strategy; strategy innovation and integration; accounting for performance management; and human capital and organizational performance. GMAT scores are not required to apply to Bellevue University.
| Location: Bellevue, NE |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
With a Jesuit values-centered focus, the online MBA offered through the Heider School of Business at Creighton University prepares students for effective, efficient, and strategic business leadership. Students enrolled in the 33-credit program can choose between six concentrations: finance; leadership; business intelligence and analytics; accounting; financial psychology and behavioral finance; or personal financial planning.
Coursework in the program includes leadership and organizational behavior; marketing management; business policy and managerial action; business, ethics, and society; survey of business intelligence and analytics; accounting for managers; managerial finance; and economic analysis for managers.
GMAT scores are only required for those without a bachelor’s degree, or those whose undergraduate GPA is less than 3.9.
| Location: Omaha, NE |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
In today’s ever-changing corporate world, many professionals seek to enhance their knowledge and skills by pursuing advanced education. Midland University’s online MBA program offers a flexible and convenient solution for busy working individuals looking to further their careers. With expert instructors with real-world experience, students will gain invaluable knowledge and insight into the business world.
The program’s supportive and interactive environment, along with the various resources available, will empower students to reach new heights of success. With 36 credits over two years, this graduate-level program offers an excellent opportunity for professionals to advance their careers without sacrificing their current work commitments.
Notably, students can also earn a certificate of completion as part of their MBA at Midland University in areas such as accounting; applied data analytics; business intelligence & data analysis; business strategy; entrepreneurial leadership; finance; healthcare management; marketing management; project management.
The curriculum includes core courses such as marketing management; special topics in graduate business; management and leadership; corporate strategy; strategic sales; project management; strategic communication; and integrated marketing communications.
| Location: Omaha, NE |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
The University of Nebraska at Kearney’s master of business administration (MBA) degree program is designed to prepare students with the knowledge, leadership, critical thinking, networking, and decision-making skills needed to manage an organization and its core functional areas successfully.
UNK’s MBA program stands out from the rest. What makes the UNK experience unique is the delivery of its blended program. This flexible online course combines the convenience of virtual learning with the effectiveness of face-to-face interactions. This innovative approach ensures that our students receive a powerful learning experience designed for maximum impact.
Each student in this 33-credit program will be required to select a track (emphasis) that includes: accounting track; professional track; marketing track; human resources track; business and IT education track; and cyber security track (thesis and non-thesis options).
| Location: Kearney, NE |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 24 months |
A top-ranking online MBA program according to U.S. News & World Report, the Financial Times, and the Princeton Review, the MBA@Nebraska is designed for those who seek career advancement and higher salaries from a prestigious Big Ten school.
Students can add a specialization in business analytics; finance; human resource management; marketing; or supply chain management. Coursework in the 48-credit program includes applied organizational behavior; human resource management; supply chain management; and business analytics.
A GMAT, GMAT Focus Edition, or GRE is not required but is optional to submit. Applicants are recommended to have at least three years of accumulated professional work experience. Exceptions will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
| Location: Lincoln, NE |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 1.5 to three years |
With a special emphasis on helping students cultivate effective, ethical, and accountable managerial skills, the School of Business and Technology at Wayne State College offers four 100 percent online MBA programs: one general and three optional focus areas in accounting; supply chain management; and human resource management. The general MBA is 30 credit hours, and the added focus areas are 36 credit hours each.
Coursework includes financial administration; managerial communications; decision science; managerial economics; management accounting; marketing administration; a seminar in organizational behavior; and administrative policy.
| Location: Wayne, NE |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
Online Business Schools in North Dakota
As the business world rapidly evolves, professionals need to keep pace with the latest trends and advances. Rasmussen University’s online MBA program offers students the flexibility to keep their skills sharp without disrupting their careers. With the program’s Competency-Based Education (CBE) structure, students proceed through courses at their own pace, mastering critical competencies through real-world projects. Beyond the flexibility, the online MBA delivers substantive education.
Led by experienced faculty, these courses delve deep into business theory and practice, with students applying their knowledge to real-world scenarios. Finishing the program in only 18 months, students will be equipped to thrive in the fast-paced business landscape of tomorrow.
Comprising 48 credits, the program includes courses such as marketing strategy; applied strategic planning; business strategy and entrepreneurship; innovation and change management; value chain and operations management; organizational behavior and leadership; and professional growth and leadership.
| Location: Multiple campuses in North Dakota |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 18 months |
The online MBA from the Gary Tharaldson School of Business at the University of Mary prepares graduates for ethical servant leadership through the infusion of Christian, Catholic, and Benedictine Values into business practice.
Prospective students can choose between seven MBA specializations: business operations; catholic philanthropy; healthcare; human resources management; project management; public administration; and virtuous leadership. Coursework in the 36-credit program includes business research and writing; leadership and management theory; ethics in business; and marketing. Students interested in dual degrees can also pursue a joint MBA/MSN program online through the University of Mary.
| Location: Bismark, ND |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 16 months |
The online MBA offered through the College of Business and Public Administration at the University of North Dakota is designed to give graduates the tools they need to switch careers, advance in their current career, or broaden their responsibilities.
Students enrolled in the 34-credit program can pursue a general MBA or have the option to choose between one of four concentrations in business analytics; government and business; international business; or aviation management. The UND MBA course includes instruction in organization leadership and ethics; econometrics; and strategic supply chain management.
This particular online program is synchronous, requiring online students to attend live classes generally scheduled in the evening (7-10 pm CST). Notably, this online MBA program does not require a GMAT score for admission.
| Location: Grand Forks, ND |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
Online Business Schools in Ohio
Baldwin Wallace University’s Carmel Boyer School of Business, renowned for its successful graduates, offers an online MBA program that is tailored to meet the needs of individuals looking to take their careers to new heights. Online MBA programs allow students to achieve their academic goals without needing to forgo their work, family, or other commitments.
The program is designed to supply the knowledge, skills, and perspectives necessary to tackle complex business scenarios and make sound decisions. The Carmel Boyer School of Business incorporates many experiences, perspectives, and expertise to present an outstanding educational experience that prepares graduates to thrive in the global business world.
Specialization options are available in business analytics; healthcare management; human resources; management; sports management; and strategic marketing.
| Location: Berea, OH |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: One to two years |
Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) stands at the forefront of higher education, paving the way for success in the healthcare industry. The Weatherhead School of Management, known for its groundbreaking curriculum, offers an online master of business administration (MBA) in healthcare management.
This program, completed over eight semesters, is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to excel in the healthcare and business sectors. What sets CWRU apart is its collaborations with renowned healthcare institutions such as Cleveland Clinic, MetroHealth System, the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, and University Hospitals.
Students can complete two, 3.5-day summer immersions to gain hands-on experience in these hospitals and clinics. By combining academic knowledge with practical experience, CWRU’s online MBA program produces exceptional graduates capable of meeting the ever-evolving needs of the healthcare industry.
Made up of 48 credits, the program includes courses such as probability, statistics, and quantitative methods; accounting for managers; statistics and decision modeling; managing people and organizations; financial management; healthcare decision-making; digital innovation in healthcare; lean operations in healthcare systems; and regulatory issues in healthcare management.
| Location: Cleveland, OH |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 2.5 years |
Cleveland State University offers an online accelerated MBA that is delivered entirely online. The program’s cohort-based model provides a deep connection with fellow classmates to enhance professional networks. GMAT or GRE is currently waived for this program as of February 2024.
Made up of 30 credits, the program includes courses in business analytics; accounting; finance; operations & supply chain management; marketing; leadership; international business; integrative business strategy; information systems; and human resources.
| Location: Cleveland, OH |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: One year |
Kent University offers an online MBA preparing graduates for responsible leadership positions in nonprofit, public, and private organizations. This is an ideal program for those who intend to keep working full-time while pursuing the MBA, and for those students who want to pursue their MBA without commuting to campus. Optional concentrations are available in accounting; business analytics; healthcare administration; human resource management; and international business.
The curriculum includes courses such as financial accounting for decision making; managerial accounting for decision making; analytics for decision making; globalization and technology strategy; macroeconomic environment of business; managerial economics; law and ethics; and managerial finance.
| Location: Kent, OH |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: One to two years |
Ohio University School of Business offers an online MBA program with nine concentration options in finance; healthcare; executive management; business analytics; accounting; project management; operations and supply chain management; strategic selling & sales leadership; and business venturing & entrepreneurship. The degree is 35 credits and can be completed in 6 semesters or about two years. There is one required weekend on-campus experience in Athens, OH, for all students.
The curriculum includes courses such as accounting for executives; organizational behavior and human resource management; descriptive analytics; managerial finance; strategic use of information systems; strategic marketing; operations management; strategy; and applied business experience.
| Location: Athens, OH |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
The University of Cincinnati has drawn attention for its healthcare emphasis, and especially for the Carl H. Lindner College of Business’s healthcare administration concentration within its MBA program. In addition to the healthcare administration concentration, students in this program have several other certificate or concentration options in healthcare finance; healthcare operations; healthcare policy and regulation; marketing; digital marketing; data analytics; corporate taxation; individual taxation; and investment management.
The GRE or GMAT are not required for admission. Made up of 35 to 48 credits, the program includes courses such as accounting for managerial decisions; corporate legal and social responsibility; decision modeling; managerial economics; financial management; information and technology management; strategic management; leadership and organizations; marketing for managers; and management of operations.
| Location: Cincinnati, OH |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 12 to 24 months |
The University of Dayton’s online MBA program prepares graduates to become well-rounded, strategic leaders ready to impact the business environment by leading with integrity. Graduates in this program will gain practical knowledge that they can immediately apply to their organization or community. Students will also have the option to pursue a concentration in marketing or business analytics to gain specialized skills.
Notably, immersions are an important component of this online MBA program where students and their faculty members will come together in person to apply their newfound knowledge in a real-world setting.
The curriculum includes courses such as managerial economics; business analytics; performance measurement and control systems perspective; operational effectiveness; information systems and business decisions; organizational behavior; corporate finance; and marketing management.
| Location: Dayton, OH |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 15 to 18 months |
Wright State University offers a relatively standardized AACSB-accredited core curriculum. The Raj Soin College of Business core courses include strategic cost management; economics for managers; financial analysis and decision making; leadership and ethics; marketing strategy; supply chain management; and developing and implementing competitive strategies.
Wright offers a vast selection of eleven concentrations. Some of these specializations are traditional, and others are unique. Examples include two concentrations in entrepreneurship (new venture creation and management, innovation, and change) and investments, healthcare, and international business.
The school admits candidates with GPAs as low as 2.7 (and 2.5 by petition).
| Location: Dayton, OH |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two to three years |
For ambitious professionals seeking to advance their careers while maintaining their current schedule, Xavier University’s Williams College of Business offers an impressive online MBA program. As a highly respected institution of higher learning, Xavier University provides students with a challenging and comprehensive curriculum designed to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the competitive business world.
By offering the MBA program online, Xavier University recognizes that busy professionals require maximum flexibility and convenience while obtaining a quality education. With a faculty of experienced professionals dedicated to student success and the option of completing the degree at one’s own pace, the online MBA program at Xavier University’s Williams College of Business is an excellent choice for individuals looking to advance their careers without sacrificing their current responsibilities.
This 39 to 45-credit program includes courses such as managerial accounting; business information systems; operational analysis; business law and ethics; managerial economics; fundamentals of finance; strategy and organizations; and marketing strategy.
| Location: Cincinnati, OH |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 1.5 to three years |
Online Business Schools in South Dakota
The online MBA offered through the College of Business and Information Systems at Dakota State University prepares graduates to hold top positions in business. Enrolled students can opt for a general MBA track or can choose from one of five emphases, including analytics, healthcare informatics, information systems, supply chain management, or sports leadership.
Coursework in the 36-credit program includes the legal and ethical environment of business; management and leadership; international management; and economics for decision-making. This program can be taken synchronously or asynchronously. GRE scores are not required for admission.
| Location: Madison, SD |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two to five years |
Embracing John Wesley’s Christ-centered model, Dakota Wesleyan offers a 100 percent online MBA designed for graduate students that will benefit the region in small- to medium-sized businesses. Students accepted into the program can choose concentrations in strategic leadership; athletic and activities administration; or nonprofit administration for ministry leaders.
Coursework in the 36-credit program includes practical economics; data-informed decision-making; project management; conflict management; financial analysis; contemporary marketing; managerial accounting; and adaptive leadership and change management, among others.
GMAT or GRE scores are not required to apply. Students with a non-business undergraduate degree must take three to five self-paced leveling courses.
| Location: Mitchell, SD |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 12 months |
The online MBA offered through the College of Business, Accounting, and Technology at National American University is designed for students looking to increase business knowledge and skills. Students enrolled in the 45-credit program can choose among nine specialties: accounting; advanced incident and consequence management; advanced security management; E-marketing; healthcare administration; human resource management; management; project and process management; and strategic security management.
Coursework in the program includes managerial accounting; marketing administration; managerial economics; financial management; quantitative methods for management decisions; and strategy and policy.
GMAT scores are not required to apply. Students with a non-business background may need to complete up to four foundational courses in accounting, statistics, macroeconomics, and finance before starting MBA coursework.
| Location: Rapid City, SD |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
The part-time online MBA offered through the Vucurevich School of Business at the University of Sioux Falls is best suited to experienced professionals with well-established careers who want a convenient, affordable, and accredited MBA taught through the lens of Christian values. Online students can choose between four concentrations in healthcare management; business innovation & marketing; management; or organizational leadership.
Coursework in the 36-credit program includes managerial communications; managing organizational dynamics; leadership and ethical management; financial planning and control; marketing management; cost management; and strategic management.
No GMAT scores are required to apply. Students with a non-business background may be required to complete competency coursework in accounting, microeconomics, managerial/business finance, and statistics.
| Location: Sioux Falls, SD |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 21 months |
The online MBA offered through the Beacom School of Business at the University of South Dakota is designed to develop business leaders in industry and government and to prepare the academically inclined for study at a doctoral level.
Students enrolled in the program can choose a 33-credit-hour general MBA or can choose to complete a 36 to 39-credit specialization in artificial intelligence for business analytics; business analytics; business leadership; finance; health services administration; marketing; operations and supply chain management; or sustainability.
Coursework in the programs includes managerial accounting; leadership development; business and its environment; and operations management. Notably, the program includes an optional five-day on-campus residency experience.
GMAT scores are not required for admission and this program is available for students who hold a bachelor’s degree from a US college or university.
| Location: Vermillion, SD |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
Online Business Schools in Wisconsin
The one hundred percent online MBA offered through the School of Business at Edgewood College can be completed as a general MBA program or with a concentration in accountancy; business analytics; business research; healthcare management; or organizational leadership and change.
Coursework in the 30-credit program includes accounting for managers; organizational development and behavior; managing information and technology; and corporate finance.
GMAT/GRE scores are not required for admission.
| Location: Madison, WI |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 10 months |
The online MBA offered through the Lakeland University system gives busy professionals the ability to move forward in their career goals, and invites students to design their business concentration. In addition to a general MBA track and the custom concentration option, students enrolled at Lakeland can choose between ten other concentrations, including accounting; finance; healthcare management; hospitality management; human resource management; non-profit leadership; project management; sports leadership; supply chain management; and diversity, equity, inclusion & belonging (DEIB).
Coursework in the 36-credit-hour program includes business research methodology; applied microeconomic theory; organizational effectiveness; and production and operations management.
GMAT scores are not required for admission unless a student’s undergraduate GPA is less than 2.75. For students interested in blended learning, hybrid options are available at all the Lakeland University centers in various cities.
| Location: Plymouth, WI |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two to five years |
The 100 percent online MBA offered through the Rader School of Business at MSOE University is designed to prepare engineers and technical professionals for leadership and management careers. Students enrolled in the program can choose between three specializations: education leadership; new product management, or analytics.
Coursework in the 37-credit-hour program includes applied project management; economics; data visualization; ethical leadership; organizational behavior; and marketing.
GMAT/GRE scores are only required for those with a GPA less than 2.8. The program is also offered in a hybrid online/on-campus format if desired.
| Location: Milwaukee, WI |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
Rasmussen University’s School of Business proudly presents its 100 percent online MBA program that allows students to earn the degree from anywhere, at any time. With its Competency-Based Education approach, this flexible MBA lets students complete modules at their own pace while meeting defined competencies through real-world projects.
Each course lasts for 11 weeks and is taught by faculty members through an easy-to-access and navigate online platform. The program also offers personalized support and feedback from instructors, ensuring that students are given the tools to succeed. What’s more, the courses are eligible for financial aid for qualified applicants, making it possible for anyone to take advantage of this opportunity.
Consisting of 48 credits, the program includes courses such as value chain and operations management; organizational behavior and leadership; professional growth and leadership; business intelligence and analytics; corporate responsibility and sustainability; and marketing strategy.
| Location: Green Bay and Wausau, WI |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 18 months |
The University of Wisconsin-Parkside offers an online MBA with concentration options in general management; accounting; data analytics; finance; global management; human resources; marketing; program and project management; and supply chain management.
Made up of 30 credits, the program includes courses such as creative and innovative management; managerial accounting; advanced operations management; project management; information technology for business decision-making; corporate financial management; contemporary challenges in managing organizations; advanced global management; and marketing management.
| Location: Kenosha, WI |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 12 months |
The Lubar School of Business online MBA program at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee is led by academic and executive faculty who understand the ever-evolving business landscape. This cutting-edge program offers a deep dive into topics like finance, marketing, and analytics through eight-week blocks that students can manage at their own pace. With networking, mentoring, and career services to help students advance, the Lubar online MBA provides an unparalleled opportunity for motivated professionals to master the skills they need to succeed in the competitive business world.
This 33-credit program includes courses such as accounting analysis and control; corporate finance; managing in a dynamic environment; marketing strategy: concepts and practice; predictive analytics for managers; global supply chain strategies; and strategic management.
| Location: Milwaukee, WI |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 12 months |
The MBA offered through the College of Business and Economics at UW Whitewater utilizes a three-pronged approach by which students will graduate from the program able to think globally, behave ethically, and lead innovation. All students in the program must select from one of the following emphases: accounting; data analytics; cybersecurity management; environmental safety and health; finance; human resources management; information technology management; international business; management; marketing; project management; and supply chain management. Alternatively, students can customize an emphasis.
The MBA program is 36 credits, but accepted students from non-business backgrounds may have to complete up to 14 credits in prerequisite coursework. Coursework in the program includes persuasion and negotiation strategies; the fundamentals of project management; the social responsibility of business; and managerial economics.
The requirement to submit GMAT/GRE scores is waived for those with an AACSB-accredited undergraduate GPA of 3.0; a regionally accredited undergraduate GPA of 3.5, or 3.0 and four years work experience; an earned graduate degree; seven years of professional experience; military service; or a professional certification approved by the college.
| Location: Whitewater, WI |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Two years |
The online MBA in healthcare leadership offered by the Dahl School of Business at Viterbo University is designed for employed professionals, especially those in the healthcare industry who want to develop leadership and business skills.
Students in the 34-credit-hour program can expect coursework in the foundations of healthcare leadership; complex systems change strategies; healthcare finance; and legal and ethical issues in healthcare.
Students enrolled in Viterbo’s online MBA program must complete two 2.5-day on-campus intensives at the beginning and midway through the program. GMAT/GRE scores are not required to apply. However, those with an undergraduate GPA of less than 2.75 and who do not have significant organizational experience or another graduate degree can submit GMAT scores to strengthen their application.
| Location: La Crosse, WI |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 24 months |
How Much Do Managers Make in the Midwest?
The lucrative pay scale of managerial positions in the Midwestern states is illustrated by attractive salaries, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS May 2022)—the latest data available as of March 2024.
Although these states trend slightly lower than the average annual salary for all management positions in the US, which is $131,200, the figures in the table below show a significant difference in the annual mean wage for management occupations depending on the specific role and industry.
The range is quite broad, from $43,560 in Missouri to more than $217,700 in Illinois. This difference is likely due to lower population density in some states, equating to lower numbers of jobs and a lower cost of living.
| Number of Managers | Average Salary | 10th percentile | 50th percentile (median) | 90th percentile | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 514,390 | $128,340 | $50,130 | $105,600 | $217,700 |
| Indiana | 156,550 | $111,420 | $47,190 | $95,510 | $183,840 |
| Iowa | 98,240 | $104,060 | $44,670 | $91,920 | $169,750 |
| Kansas | 70,980 | $110,480 | $47,300 | $98,420 | $180,240 |
| Michigan | 268,190 | $119,010 | $49,700 | $102,710 | $200,200 |
| Minnesota | 193,760 | $124,630 | $51,480 | $105,210 | $210,440 |
| Missouri | 160,530 | $111,290 | $43,560 | $95,560 | $191,760 |
| Nebraska | 68,440 | $108,840 | $47,350 | $96,960 | $173,390 |
| North Dakota | 22,400 | $104,870 | $46,080 | $94,080 | $168,020 |
| Ohio | 331,690 | $114,240 | $46,000 | $98,420 | $200,540 |
| South Dakota | 14,130 | $117,330 | $51,560 | $100,410 | $188,840 |
| Wisconsin | 122,810 | $125,010 | $56,120 | $106,810 | $205,700 |
