Best online MBA degrees: Top picks

Online MBA programs train students to lead in business environments. These advanced programs emphasize accounting, finance, and management while simultaneously exploring organizational structure and business ethics. 

Because business skills apply across industries and organizations, online MBA programs serve individuals working in diverse fields such as healthcare, information technology, manufacturing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, management occupations are projected to grow 9% to 2030, adding more than 900,000 positions to the economic landscape. 

We gathered the best online MBAs to help you decide which program will best meet your needs and facilitate your path to professional success. 

The best online MBA degrees

The programs below have been assessed using ZDnet’s ranking methodology. Through thorough assessment and consideration of numerous factors, ZDnet provides a comprehensive look at the best online MBAs available. 

Unless otherwise indicated, data is drawn from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Scorecard.

Insights from an MBA graduate

Blaine Thiederman is a certified financial planner and the founder and principal advisor at Progress Wealth Management. Progress Wealth Management is a leading wealth management firm in Arvada, Colorado specializing in serving clients who are high-earning professionals in the West Denver area. 

ZDNet: What was the most challenging, rigorous course you took in your MBA program? 

Blaine Thiederman: Forensic accounting. It required roughly 4-6 hours of reading per week, in addition to a four-page paper. It was not an easy task at all. 

ZDNet: What advice would you give to students who are about to start this course?

BT: First, verify it’s worth it. If you look at job postings for the jobs you seek to attain later in your career and find that none say “MBA preferred,” you should reconsider. Not only are MBAs expensive, but for some careers, they have no value. For others, they’re immensely valuable. 

In addition, if you can find a company to pay for your MBA for you and you’re able to do the MBA part-time while you’re employed, not only can it be more affordable but also more valuable because you get more experience while you’re going to school.

ZDNet: What were the greatest takeaways from your MBA that helped you to be successful in your career?

BT: I recently started my own wealth management firm targeting high-earning professionals in Arvada, Colorado. Understanding everything that’s required to start a business from the ground up (at least from a high level) has been immensely valuable to me. Without my MBA, I’m confident I wouldn’t have been anywhere near as well-prepared.

In addition, for companies that have employed me prior, my MBA has helped me to think differently than my peers who had less “business” focused backgrounds. The result of this is that I’ve been able to grow my organizations in ways to better serve our target client.

ZDNet: What would you recommend that students do in addition to their MBA program, in order to stand out to employers?

BT: Most careers these days have professional designations and licenses that are particularly valuable.

Find the designation that your industry values most and get it. Remember, the harder it is, the easier it is for you to differentiate yourself compared to your competition, and, in doing so, prove you’re worth a higher salary. An MBA is much more general than these designations so, while valuable, it doesn’t prove niche specialization in your profession.

ZDNet: What misconceptions do people have about this degree, and what would you tell them?

BT: The biggest misconception people have about MBAs is that getting one is the golden ticket to a great career (it’s not). It’s a great step in the right direction, but it doesn’t prove you have specialized expertise. What should take priority over an MBA is first getting the highly regarded professional designation (CPA, CFP, PMP, CFA, etc.), licenses necessary and valuable experience. After getting these, pursue your MBA. By following this path, you’ll be able to prove you’re an expert and get the most out of your MBA and get paid a healthy salary.

What to expect in an online MBA degree program

Designed to enhance existing business knowledge, an online MBA builds managerial and leadership skills. When it comes to what to expect in business school, students complete individual assignments and group projects alike. Core, elective, and specialized coursework accompanies a capstone requirement.

MBA courses

Coursework varies by program, but MBA courses generally emphasize business fundamentals like accounting, finance, and management. Students explore organizational structures, strategic thinking, and leadership as it relates to business environments. 

Business administration degree levels

Students have options to earn business administration degrees at undergraduate and graduate levels. Each business degree has unique outcomes and accommodates different needs and goals. 

Associate and bachelor’s degrees including introductory coursework and lead to entry-level business positions. Master’s degrees and doctorates dive deeper into specific aspects of business, giving learners opportunities to move into advanced business roles. 

Associate in business administration

Length: Two years

Cost: $200-$700 per credit

Post-grad careers: Administrative assistant, customer service representative, sales managers

A business administration associate degree introduces students to business concepts and principles. Students study business communications, information systems, and economics through roughly 60 credit hours of coursework.

With an associate degree in business administration, learners have the knowledge and skills needed for entry-level roles across industries and organizations. An associate degree in business administration also allows students to continue onto a bachelor’s degree in business or related field. 

Bachelor’s in business administration

Length: 4 years

Cost: $300-$1,000 per credit

Post-grad careers: Project manager, human resource specialist, business analyst

Most bachelor’s degrees in business administration include 120 credit hours of coursework and experiential learning requirements. The comprehensive nature of business administration bachelor’s degree prepares students for careers with private, public, and government organizations and across industrial sectors. 

Students complete general education classes alongside courses in business topics like accounting, finance, marketing, and management. Additional business courses explore human resources, international business, information technology, and project management. 

Master’s in business administration

Length: 2 years

Cost: $300-$1,200 per credit

Post-grad careers: Senior business analyst, marketing director, financial manager

A master’s degree in business administration builds on existing knowledge and skills and fosters managerial abilities. What to expect from business school varies by program, but many master’s degrees in business administration allow learners to specialize in areas such as healthcare, international business, or entrepreneurship. 

Master’s degrees in business administration integrate individuals and collaborative assignments and projects. As part of a business administration master’s degree, students may need to complete an internship or practical requirement. Working professionals often benefit from opportunities to do so at their current place of employment.

Doctorate in business administration

Length: 3-8 years

Cost: $300-$1,200 per credit

Post-grad careers: University professor, chief executive officer, entrepreneur

There are two types of business administration doctorates. A doctorate of business administration focuses on business theory and knowledge, training students to apply it to the business world. A Ph.D. in business administration emphasizes research, ideal for individuals who want to work in academia and research. 

Coursework prepares learners to undertake an advanced project related to a specific aspect or issue within the business world. A Ph.D. in business administration results in a dissertation, while other business doctorates integrate projects and practical requirements. 

In conclusion

The top online MBAs vary in format, content, and outcomes, making it essential to understand which degree best meets your needs. Finding the right degree sets you on a path to a lucrative, rewarding career as a business leader.