30 Best Affordable MBA Degree Programs - Master's Programs Guide

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Contents

Common Application and Admission Questions

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

How Much Can I Make With an MBA Degree?

What Are the Best Affordable MBA Degrees?

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If you’re considering earning a master’s degree, it’s important that you pay attention to the hard facts and numbers—after all, the numbers don’t lie.

According to a study conducted by Northeastern University (one of many!), a Master of Business Administration is one of the smartest degrees you can earn. Not only does an MBA provide you with valuable skills that are transferable to a large array of industries, but there are also plenty of concentrations and specializations you can pursue to make your degree even more marketable.

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Best yet, graduates of MBA programs tend to earn high starting salaries and are elevated quickly to managerial or other leadership positions.

But what exactly can you do with an MBA? The list of options is seemingly endless. Earning an MBA can open the door to a higher salary and advanced career position across all sectors and industries. Graduates work in in-demand fields such as marketing, finance, information technology, and even healthcare.

Regardless of the industry you choose, they all need talented business leadership that can help pave the way for success and growth.

Because of this, there are a variety of online MBA programs for you to consider, each of which offers numerous concentrations and the potential to specialize in diverse fields. Some schools offer opportunities for capstones and internships, too, so that you can not only enjoy a robust curriculum at your computer, but also get out and see what the workforce has to offer. This is a great way to explore potential career interests!

Earning a degree is going to cost you some money—there’s no way around that. However, the best online MBA programs aren’t just those that offer quality education. They’re also affordable. You don’t have to sacrifice financial freedom for a top-notch education! Many of these affordable online MBA programs offer access to a variety of financial aid options along with low tuition rates to boot.

Plus, earning an online degree tends to be cheaper overall. Because you won’t need to attend a physical campus, you can cross a lot of the major college expenses off your list (including transportation, room, and board). Some schools offer lower tuition rates for online courses, too, though this can vary.

And let’s not forget the flexibility and convenience of an online degree. When you earn an online MBA, you can earn a no-frills, no-fuss degree that doesn’t require you to abandon your current career in order to improve your education. You’ll be able to meet your professional goals and remain working at the same time.

Don’t be fooled into thinking that online programs are sub-par or somehow “less than” their on-campus counterparts, either. While it’s true that online degrees once carried a stigma, that’s no longer the case. Today, employers and universities look at online degrees with no more scrutiny or prejudice than they do programs that are offered on campus.

In fact, online programs offer the same academic rigor you’d experience on-campus along with many of the same resources. You’ll be able to access dedicated career services, library, counseling, and other resources to help you get ahead—and stay ahead.

Common Application and Admission Questions

Your first step in applying to college is to find an MBA that checks off all of your boxes. College experiences vary, but in general, most MBA programs will share a variety of common characteristics.

Accreditation is one of the most significant. In the United States, a school receives accreditation only after receiving a thorough and decisive review of its resources, faculty, and programs.

While a vast majority of the top schools in the country are regionally accredited, only a few MBA programs are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. This is a designation earned by a small percentage of colleges around the world, and it’s a good sign that a program is well worth your time.

This is not the only factor you should consider as you are looking for programs to apply to, though. You’ll also want to consider how long it will take you to complete your online MBA. In general, most online MBAs can be completed in just three to five years (or less), but this can vary.

You may want to start by considering online schools in your area, as this will give you the flexibility to attend campus if you need or want to. However, this is of course not necessary if you are considering an online degree. You should look for a program that offers online courses that fit your schedule as well as one that offers partnerships with local and national businesses. Naturally, you’ll want to consider the affordability of the program, too.

Once you’ve made a list of colleges that sounds appealing, it’s time to decide where you want to apply. Most admissions experts strongly recommend against applying to a large number of colleges. Instead, choose just a handful. Not only does it get expensive to pay application fees to all the schools you choose to apply to, but it will make your to-do list a whole lot longer, too. Narrow down your list of options so that you have a few back-ups, but not so many that it becomes overwhelming!

As you prepare to apply, you’ll want to gather up your transcripts, create an updated resume or curriculum vitae, and take any necessary standardized tests. Transcripts are generally required from all colleges you’ve attended. While some MBA programs will require applicants to have an undergraduate degree in a specific major (such as business), others are more flexible, enabling you to apply regardless of your background.

A resume or curriculum vitae is often required to showcase that you have sufficient work experience to enroll in an MBA. If you’re fresh out of your undergraduate degree, you might want to consider alternative ways to “beef up” your resume. You can engage in internships, community service opportunities, and network with local industries to gain more experience. It’s also a good idea to collect a list of names of individuals who can serve as your professional references.

Check with your school to find out if there are any other requirements for admission. Some universities request that students have a certain grade point average (3.0 is common) while others will request a personal essay, interview, or visit to campus as part of the application process.

What About Financial Aid & Scholarships?

Did you know that, each year, thousands of dollars of scholarship monies go unawarded—simply because nobody bothered to apply?

It’s an unfortunate tragedy, but it’s a reality for many organizations and universities who regularly award merit- and need-based financial aid to students. As the costs of attending college continue to rise, it’s imperative that you, as an MBA applicant, look for ways to finance your education.

College is expensive! Unfortunately, one of the most common ways that students pay for their MBA degree is with student loans. Since the average program can cost well over $75,000 for the lifespan of tuition, according to the Financial Times, this isn’t a smart choice.

Instead, you should first exhaust all of the financial aid opportunities out there for MBA applicants.

Your first step in securing financial aid is to complete the FAFSA—the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This form can be filled out as early as January 1 of the year in which you plan to attend college. It utilizes information from your financial history (as well as that of your parents, if you are still a dependent) to evaluate how much financial “need” you have.

It takes some time to fill out the FAFSA, but it’s worth it, as it could make you eligible for a large assortment of federal and state grants, loans, and work-study experiences. You will need to have a few documents on hand as you prepare to file, including your most recent tax returns, W2s, and other financial statements.

Even if you don’t have any financial need, according to the FAFSA, it’s still worth your time to fill it out. Although a vast majority of need-based financial aid is set aside strictly for undergraduate students, there are still plenty of options for you to pursue. For example, many universities use the results of the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for things like student loans, work-study, fellowships, and teaching assistantships.

Once you’ve exhausted all of your financial aid options with your university, it’s time to consider what else the world has to offer. There are all kinds of MBA scholarships out there via third-party organizations—it’s all about knowing what to look for, and making yourself competitive.

The key to landing one of these scholarships is to apply early. MBA scholarships can be competitive—after all, there are so many highly-qualified applicants. Get a head start by sending in your application as early as possible. Make sure you’re a great candidate, too, both on paper and off. You’ll want to polish up your GMAT or GRE scores and have a solid undergraduate GPA. Don’t be afraid of adding some work or volunteer experience to your resume, either. Often, these experiences alone are enough to land you a few thousand dollars of “free” money.

Ask around about other opportunities that might be available to you, too. Former students of a university or a specific program are often a wealth of information about scholarships (and sometimes, universities offer alumni scholarships for which the recipients can be handpicked by past students, too). You might even check with your employer, as some offer tuition reimbursement plans for higher education expenses.

How Much Can I Make With an MBA Degree?

A master’s in business administration is a highly marketable degree—and it’s also highly versatile. You might work directly with people or with products, but either way, you’re likely to find a business angle that you can pursue in just about any industry.

Because this field is so versatile, it’s tough to estimate exactly how much you will make with your MBA. The good news is that the answer is pretty consistent across the board—you’re going to earn a lot. MBA graduates tend to earn high average salaries, with data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics showing that wages for business-related occupations were much higher than those for all workers.

Granted, you might log a few more hours on the job, especially when you’re getting started—but as long as you find a job you love, you likely won’t notice the added hours.

Some of the most common career options for MBA graduates include those in business operations, management, sales, and as financial specialists. The highest earners are those employed as management analysts or as CEOs of major companies. A management analyst in the 90th percentile of earners, for instance, will earn well over $150,220 per year. Financial analysts and personal financial advisors also earn high salaries, with some bringing in more than $187,200 per year.

And if you’d rather be involved in the day-to-day management of a company, don’t worry—you’ll find good company in the high-earning category there, too. The top earners are those who are employed as chief executives, computer and information systems managers, and marketing and sales managers. Although all salaries are respectable across this industry, these owners regularly bring in more than $119,000 to $175,000 on average.

Naturally, the highest earners in the field of business are those who go on to earn a master’s degree—and usually, that’s a Master in Business Administration. Business has been one of the most popular college majors for years, and while there are certain intrinsic traits that will help you get ahead (such as being hardworking, analytical, and a good communicator), a master’s degree has the potential to skyrocket your career success and potential wages.

If you want to increase your potential earnings, a great way to do so is to consider earning additional certifications. These certifications will help you obtain a more advanced or specialized position and help you further demonstrate your skills.

One example is a certificate with the Association of Professionals in Business Management as a certified business manager. This certification is granted to individuals who are involved in the practical management of commercial enterprises.

Another option is a certification from the Project Management Institute (PMI). This certificate endorses your ability to lead a complicated project to successful completion.

Choosing a specialization in a field of personal interest is a good idea, too. This will enable you to pursue leadership positions in a “niche” field almost immediately upon graduation, particularly if the online program in which you enroll includes opportunities for hands-on learning via internships, co-ops, and other experiences. Some of the most popular specializations for MBA graduates include finance, healthcare, marketing, information technology, supply chain management, and project management.

What Are the Best Affordable MBA Degrees?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#1. Texas A & M University, College Station

Master of Business Administration

Informally established in 1876, the Mays Business School at Texas A&M University has a storied and impressive history. The school offered its first general MBA program in 1951, an expansion of its original business core that was intermingled with agricultural and mechanical programs.

Since then, the school has received a medley of accolades. It’s repeatedly recognized as one of the top public business schools in the country for its programs and faculty research. Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International, the school is highly ranked by The Princeton Review, U.S. News & World Report, Financial Times, Bloomberg Businessweek, and more.

In addition to multiple undergraduate, master’s, and Ph.D. programs, Texas A&M University is also home to full-time, professional, and executive MBAs. Although all of these degrees are knock-out choices for students interested in online MBAs, it’s the full-time MBA that’s best for online learners.

With this program, you’ll be able to complete two semesters in year one followed by a summer break, then a third and final semester in the second year. If you desire, you can also complete an optional fourth semester. As a result, it takes most students less than 18 months to complete their studies.

You’ll get an excellent return on investment with this program’s intensive curriculum, high internship placement rates, and instruction from world-class faculty. Class charts are small and you’ll be supported by exceptional career services.

The program includes the opportunity to pursue multiple academic tracks, including business data analytics, finance, entrepreneurship, marketing, supply chain and operations, and healthcare. You’ll also take core courses in subjects such as Business Analytics, Financial Accounting, Marketing Management, and Leading People in Organizations.

While enrolled, you’ll enjoy participation options in more than 1,000 different student organizations, many of which have been developed for and by graduate business students. You’ll enjoy the support of several networks, too, including the Aggie Network. One of the most active alumni groups in the world, this network contains more than 62,000 Mays Business School alumni.

This degree is incredibly affordable, with tuition and fees coming in at around $62,000 total for Texas residents. There are four separate applications and start dates each year. Although this program is highly selective, admitting only 40% of its applicants each year, it is nonetheless quite easy to apply to. You will just need to submit a web-based application, a copy of your professional resume, transcripts, and contact information for two professional references. You will also need to supply an essay and GRE or GMAT test scores.

Ranked best in Texas and nineteenth among all U.S. public schools by Financial Times 2020, this degree is clearly worth applying to. In fact, in 2018, 89% of all MBA graduates secured employment within three months of graduation—and with an average salary of $101,878, no less.

#2. University of North Texas

Master of Business Administration

Although most students in the Master of Business Administration at the University of North Texas are already employed when they enroll in this degree, it goes without saying that this degree is one of the best ways to enhance your career prospects.

In fact, that’s one of the top reasons why learners choose to pursue this degree—they can remain at their current positions, earn an MBA completely online, and then be promoted to an advanced position.

It’s a smart choice, that’s for sure.

The majority of classes in this online program are recorded and archived, and all are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Virtually all of the courses are taught by the same tenure- and tenure-track faculty who teach in the traditional MBA program on campus. You’ll enjoy access to all of the same assignments, exams, lectures, and course materials that you would if you chose to study on campus.

Not only that, but you’ll be able to complete this program in as few as 14 months. Courses are broken down into bite-sized eight-week chunks, making it possible for students to enjoy more flexibility as they work their courses into their professional and family lives.

As a 36-credit hour program, this accelerated degree offers easy-to-manage courses in the fall and spring along with five-week courses in the summer. You can start your studies at one of five annual start dates. You’ll learn marketable skills in teamwork, ethical conduct, quantitative analysis, and the strategic integration of business subjects.

Sample courses include Advanced Topics in Financial Management, Investment Analysis and Management, Theory of Finance, and Theory and Application of Financial Derivatives, just to name a few. You’ll have the structure of six or so required core courses, plus the freedom and flexibility to pursue elective courses in chosen areas of interest. The course—and career!—possibilities are endless.

The degree has numerous concentrations, including a business analytics pathway that is STEM-designated. Other options include marketing, marketing analytics, supply chain analytics, strategic management, and more. The average class size is just 18 students, so you can rest assured that you will get the attention from faculty members that you want and deserve.

You’ll have access to all kinds of services when you study with the University of North Texas. Not only will you still be able to receive individualized academic advising, but you can get assistance with career placement, access to a live librarian and library services, mentoring, technical support, live tutoring, and more. The school even offers dedicated resume help services just for MBA students!

Tuition is highly affordable, starting at just $800 per credit hour, and with rolling admission, there’s no reason not to consider this exceptional online program. It’s ranked as one of the Best Online MBA programs by the U.S. News & World Report, receiving high marks for its faculty credentials and training, services and technology, and student engagement.

#3. University of California-Riverside

Master of Business Administration

Want to earn a starting salary of at least $67,000 per year? If so, you might want to consider enrolling in the Master of Business Administration at the University of California-Riverside.

Not only are starting salaries high, but you’ll also increase your chances of finding a job. In fact, 90% of MBA graduates from the University of California-Riverside are employed within just three months of graduation. As a result, this school is ranked as one of the Best Graduate Business Schools in the U.S. News & World Report along with many other ranking publications.

There are seven in-demand concentrations to choose from as part of this program—accounting, information systems, marketing, finance, management, and operations and supply chain management. Regardless of the one you choose, you’ll find that you gain unique skill sets and the ability to differentiate yourself as a leader in a particular field of business. You can choose just one or even two MBA concentrations, each of which requires five courses.

Not only that, but you can also take a range of electives within your concentration to continue to tailor your MBA experience to your unique interests. Not sure which classes are best for you and your goals? You’ll be able to work 1:1 with a faculty advisor to help you figure it out along the way.

Irrespective of the concentration you select, you’ll take nine core courses (or 36 quarter units) covering major topics like organizational behavior and theory, managerial economics, information systems, strategic management, and operations management. You will also be required to complete two professional workshops—Business Career Professional Development Workshop and Communication, Leadership, Teams, and Ethics.

Another mandatory component of the University of California-Riverside MBA is the fieldwork in management internship. This internship component normally begins after all other core courses have been completed. You can take a full-time internship during the summer or a part-time one during the fall or winter. If you’re already employed, you can use your experience at your job to fulfill the internship requirement.

A final capstone is also required to help you bring together everything you have learned through the duration of your studies.

As you can see, this program is not only robust and highly academic, but it’s cross-disciplinary and internationally-recognized, too. The School of Business at the University of California-Riverside is one of the fastest-growing among all of the University of California campuses. You’ll be able to build and diversify your professional experience as you accelerate your professional career.

You’ll learn from award-winning faculty as you enjoy a curriculum that builds strong theoretical foundations. The degree is a STEM-designated program so that international students may apply for 36 months of optional practical training to work in the United States, too.

Tuition is highly affordable, with military discounts and financial aid available. To apply, you will need to submit an online application along with your transcripts. GMAT/GRE test scores are not required for most candidates.

#4. University of California, Los Angeles

Master of Business Administration

Earning an MBA doesn’t have to take ages—at the University of California Los Angeles, it can take less than two years.

Here, the Anderson School of Management prepares aspiring MBA candidates to become leaders in the business world. Recruiters from all over the world actively seek Anderson graduates for their companies. Some of the top names include Google, Goldman Sachs, and BCG, all of whom work with UCLA year after year.

Not only will you graduate with an advanced tool kit of skills and competencies that you can take with you as you build your professional expertise, but you’ll also be able to tap into a professional alumni network of more than 39,000 strong to help you build your career.

The curriculum of the full-time MBA is designed to help you create the maximum impact as you approach your career goals. You’ll take nine core courses that will help you develop a solid business foundation. Then, you can choose your own academic journey of elective courses, choosing either one or two different specializations.

Sample courses include Marketing Management, Data And Decisions, and Communication for Leaders. When it comes to specializations, you’ll have plenty to choose from, too. Options include Accounting, Corporate Finance, Brand Management, Entertainment, Entrepreneurship, Easton Technology Leadership, Global Management, Real Estate, and more.

All students, regardless of their concentration, are required to complete a final real-world master’s thesis that takes the form of a capstone field study project. You’ll get hands-on client experience as you research and recommend strategic solutions for some of the world’s top companies. You can either take the applied research management pathway or create your own company through the business creation option.

In addition, you’ll be able to complete a professional internship. This is meant to be carried out with one of the top companies in the world to give you insider knowledge of the business world. You’ll get hands-on experience and valuable credentials to add to your resume.

There are even global options available! You can participate in a global immersion course, complete an international field study project, or take on-campus global management elective courses. The school has study abroad programs in target regions of Asia and Latin America, with partnerships in countries such as Brazil, Chile, China, Argentina, Hong Kong, and more.

The Anderson School of Business is top-ranked by a variety of publications for its dynamic programs and exceptional career services. Of note, the school’s Parker Career Management Center is the MBA program’s dedicated connection to top companies. Advisors here work with top recruiters at organizations like Deloitte, Microsoft, Mattel, AT&T, Bank of America, and more. In short, it shouldn’t be tough for you to find a job.

You don’t have to pay an arm and a leg to get there, either. This program is renowned for its affordable tuition and myriad of financial aid opportunities.

#5. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Master of Business Administration

Looking for a program that’s top-ranked by a variety of ranking publications, including U.S. News & World Report? If so, look no further than the Master of Business Administration at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. It’s ranked not only the Best Online MBA Program by this publication, but it has also received top marks for its MBA programs in marketing, business analytics, and finance.

This is due in part to the exceptional curriculum offered via this program, but also its small class sizes. The average class contains fewer than 14 students so you’ll always feel as though you’re learning as part of a family instead of just being another face in the crowd. Most students take around two years to graduate, but you can move more quickly through the curriculum, too.

This liberal arts institution located in Chapel Hill, NC, is home to a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. The Master of Business Administration here consists of 62 required credits, which includes nine required courses and two in-person summits. These summits can be conducted on campus in Chapel Hill or in a city around the world via UNC-Chapel Hill’s extensive study abroad programs.

The program gives online students a tangible leg up on the job market, providing them with the skills they need to add value to organizations and for employers. In addition to the online MBA, the school also offers a full-time on-campus MBA, an evening MBA, a dual degree, and a weekend executive MBA.

While enrolled, you’ll take classes that cover topics such as analytical tools for decision making, strategic economics, business communication, and more. The program is also home to numerous elective concentrations—you can pursue concentrations in finance; entrepreneurship; data analytics; and decision-making, marketing, or strategy and consulting, depending on your personal aptitudes and professional goals.

The online MBA at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is offered virtually through an incredibly flexible learning platform. The campus offers innovative technologies so that learners can attend from anywhere, and the flexible program length options (from 18 to 36 months) make it possible for learners to complete their studies around their schedules.

However, you won’t be solely limited to online courses, though. This program, which is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, also enables students to take some courses in person through the EMBA and MBA programs offered on-campus at the Kenan Flagler School of Business. You’ll also have access to individualized career management plants that can be tailored specifically to your professional and personal goals.

With rolling admission and affordable tuition that starts at just $2,205 per credit hour, this program is a no-brainer. To apply, you will need to hold an accredited bachelor’s degree and supply transcripts, a resume, an essay, and two letters of recommendation. GRE or GMAT scores are required, but waivers are often available. You can generally qualify for one of these waivers as long as you have six or more years of work experience.

#6. University of California, Irvine

Master of Business Administration

No matter where you are in your career, the University of California Irvine likely has a program to help you meet your goals—and to take your career to the next level.

The full-time MBA is one of the most popular options here. It is best for early- to mid-level consultants, managers, and analysts. As a 21-month program that starts each fall, it’s best for individuals who don’t yet have a lot of work experience. There’s also a fully-employed MBA. It’s similar to the full-time MBA except that it’s meant to be carried out on a part-time basis over the duration of 24-to 33-months.

With this option, courses start each spring and fall and there’s a hybrid option for online learners. You’ll only have to attend campus a few Saturdays per year. Again, this is a great option for students with limited work experience.

However, if you have a bit more experience, the University of California Irvine does also have an MBA for executives. This program is designed for directors, managers, and executives with at least eight years of professional experience. Also a 21-month program, it is meant to be carried out on campus.

Regardless of the option you choose, you’ll find that these MBA programs, offered by the Paul Merage School of Business, are incredibly forward-thinking and perfect for aspiring business professionals. They are co-curricular and offer flexibility for unparalleled learning experiences.

All have a focus on technology, including unique integration of core technologies like IoT, blockchain, 5G, and AI. You’ll learn all about the core business concepts necessary for success in the past, as well as the competencies that are needed in a 21st-century business world.

This MBA program is fully STEM-designated, meaning you can deepen your understanding of both management science and quantitative methods. The program is also one of the few of its kind to offer analytics in digital leadership concentration. This concentration is directly aligned with specific managerial functions in data science, data analytics, strategy, and business intelligence.

Although you’ll take most of your classes remotely, you’ll still benefit from the University of California’s idyllic location. Situated in the heart of Orange County’s Tech Coast, you will find yourself surrounded by a network of cutting-edge tech businesses, such as Google, Amazon, and Western Digital. You’ll also have access to a variety of digitally-savvy firms like Disney, Hyundai, Taco Bell, and Capital Group.

This business school is consistently ranked among the top 5% of business schools worldwide, and it’s easy to see why. When you choose to study here, you’ll gain the professional competencies necessary to step into any learning environment and you’ll be able to collaborate with dynamic classmates on a daily basis.

An affordable program, this degree is ranked as one of the best full-time MBA programs in the United States by Financial Times and features an innovative, career-focused curriculum.

#7. Appalachian State University

Master of Business Administration

Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International since 1976, Appalachian State University is among just a third of U.S. business schools and 15% of business programs worldwide to hold such accreditation.

It’s consistently ranked as one of the best business schools by the Princeton Review—and as you might expect, it’s also one of the best places to earn a Master of Business Administration.

This degree will provide you with the professional preparation necessary to engage in a dynamic global environment as a business leader. You can complete it in just one year by taking classes full-time on campus in Boone, or you can complete it in two years by taking classes part-time online.

Whichever option you choose, you’ll find that you receive initialized attention via customized classes, dedicated career services, and personally-tailored academic advising. You’ll also have access to extensive professional development activities and soft skills training. At the heart of this program are networking and team building—two concepts that are integral as you build your career as a business leader. You’ll find yourself surrounded by Appalachian support both before, during, and after you have completed your studies.

The program features seven concentrations, many of which are also available to online learners. These concentrations include business analytics, interdisciplinary business, economics, international business, supply chain management, leading and managing human resources, and sustainable business.

You will take classes in the Walker College of Business, receiving an education in business that offers high value for its cost. You’ll be guided by a dedicated academic advisor who will assist you with your program of study throughout every step of the way. You’ll have access to plenty of professional, leadership, and career development opportunities, including an optional international experience. Even if you choose to take most of your courses online, you can participate in a study-abroad opportunity in another country regardless.

All classes here have small class sizes, meaning you’ll enjoy intimate classroom interaction both on-campus and off. You can choose to pursue a global emphasis, which can include study abroad in traditional and emerging markets. Many students choose to study via the Holland Fellows Program for Business Study in Asia, which will enable you to study and collaborate with students from Fudan University in Shanghai, China.

You will benefit from a large variety of additional campus resources, too, even as you pursue your journey online. Student support services include scholarships, academic advising, and the BB&T Student Leadership Center, which gives opportunities for business students to build valuable life and job skills through professional development training.

With three potential start dates per year, this program is easy to apply to and features affordable tuition. There are a number of financial aid opportunities available as well. There are scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships available to support degree-seeking students.

To apply, you will need to submit an online application along with contact information for three professional references. A resume is also required, as are official transcripts and results from the GRE or GMAT examination.

#8. Iowa State University

Master of Business Administration

Choose to study at the Debbie and Jerry Ivy College of Business at Iowa State University, and you’ll learn from the very best.

This school is home to a number of MBA programs that are designed to help and train students at all levels of their professional lives. Available as a full-time MBA, a professional MBA, and an executive MBA, it will be easy for you to find the path that’s right for you. Each MBA comes with a medley of specializations for you to choose from, three of which are STEM-designated to appeal to international students in particular.

The full-time MBA is a two-year program comprising 30 credit hours of courses, or the equivalent of ten core courses, along with six electives (18 credits). You’ll take classes both on-campus and online. You can customize your program with optional specializations and a variety of international study tours, while at the same time enjoying the universal benefits of cohort-and team-based learning.

The program offers comprehensive, personalized academic and career services—plus, you’ll learn from faculty who are engaged in cutting-edge research and committed to excellence in teaching.

The degree features numerous STEM-designated specializations in Information Systems, Finance, and Business Analytics. As an international student, you will also have the opportunity to extend your Optional Practical Training work permit for up to 36 months after graduation.

Are you still exploring options at the undergraduate level? If so, you may want to consider the 3+2 concurrent MBA program at Ivy. This degree is available for students in science and technology, engineering, and ensign majors at Iowa State, and enables students to earn a degree both in their undergraduate major as well as an MBA within just five years.

In this program, you’ll have the opportunity to work with your classmates to develop your leadership, communications, and collaboration skills. The core curriculum will encourage you to solve problems by thinking in an analytical and creative fashion.

You’ll also be able to interact with guest speakers and workshops that will enhance your soft skills and networking. You can work alongside MBA peers to serve as a consultant for a local nonprofit organization or you might choose to participate in a case competition—an experience that is often viewed as a culminating event within the MBA core curriculum.

As the highest-ranked full-time MBA program in Iowa, this degree is perfect for students who want to enjoy all the benefits of team-based learning. You’ll have access to personalized career and academic services as you learn from faculty who are engaged in cutting-edge research. Ranked as one of the best by U.S. News & World Report, this degree is also incredibly affordable. There is financial aid funding for scholarships as well as graduate assistantships.

Still not sure? Consider this—within just 90 days of graduation, 100% of 2017-2018 full-time Ivy MBA graduates were employed in their respective fields. Not too shabby!

#9. Texas A & M International University

Master of Business Administration

If you’re looking for an MBA with an international focus, you won’t find a better option than what is offered by Texas A&M International University. Surprised? You shouldn’t be—after all, it’s in the name! Offered by the A.R. Sanchez Jr School of Business, this degree is clearly one of the best.

Texas A&M International University offers multiple MBA concentrations that make it possible for you to earn a degree regardless of your career aspirations or background. There are three out of four potential concentrations that include electives based on international courses—international business, international banking and finance, and international trade and logistics. The final concentration option, management, is an inclusive program that is a wonderful fit for generalists.

All concentrations consist of 30 credit hours of study and are meant to be completed in just over a year. You’ll deepen your knowledge of core business concepts through accelerated seven-week courses. There are numerous start dates per year so that you can begin making progress toward the career of your dreams whenever the mood strikes you.

Regardless of the concentration you choose, you’ll find that this Master of Business Administration program can hone your financial and planning skills by helping you learn how to analyze market and financial variables. You’ll examine a wide variety of business scenarios in your work as you gain a robust knowledge base that enables you to evaluate and resolve an array of modern business challenges.

Not only that, but the concentration in international business is also offered in Spanish. This program is ranked as one of the Best Online MBA Programs by the U.S. News & World Report as well as one of the Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans. Most classes have fewer than 20 students—you will love how close-knit your classes are.

The program is not limited to applicants with business backgrounds, but if you already hold an undergraduate degree in business, you can complete the program in just 15 months. If you don’t have this background, not to worry—you can complete an MBA Prep Module in one semester or in a summer term. That way, you’ll be able to catch up with the rest of the cohort without having to spend more time in school.

Tuition for this program is incredibly affordable, starting at just $499 per credit. A medley of financial aid opportunities are available for new and returning students alike, including grants and other forms of financial assistance. You can apply at any time, since this program has rolling admissions. The program does not require GRE or GMAT test scores in many situations.

In fact, Texas A&M International has an incredibly generous admissions policy. As long as you have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and a resume with three references, you can be granted automatic admission. Otherwise, you’ll just need to submit a 300-word essay, two letters of recommendation, and test scores.

#10. SUNY College at Oswego

Master of Business Administration

Although admission to the MBA program at SUNY College at Oswego is rolling, you won’t want to wait long to apply to this rewarding degree.

It’s perfect for working professionals—in fact, up to 90% of current MBA students here are already employed when they enroll. Because of this, the degree is designed to offer maximum flexibility to learners. All online classes are recorded and archived. Not only that, but the program’s courses are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

You’ll enjoy an affordable value in this accredited degree, along with a curriculum that can be more or less customized to meet your unique career goals. You’ll also get flexible student support and instruction from the same faculty who teach on-campus in traditional courses. It features numerous concentrations, including those such as marketing, general management, finance, accounting, and healthcare administration.

Customizable, affordable, and diverse, this degree features award-winning faculty who stress practical problem-solving scenarios. The coursework in the program is constantly evolving with the latest trends in business and industry. Not only can you pursue the stand-alone Master of Business Administration here, but SUNY College at Oswego has an array of other options you might consider, too.

Many are offered on-campus with online course options. These include the MBA in health services administration, the advanced certificate in nursing home administration, and the MBA in public accounting. Whichever option you choose, you’re sure to be successful. In the college’s last career survey of graduates, 32% were promoted while in the MBA program, while another 20% were promoted after receiving their MBA (either by their employer or by receiving a new position).

The average class size here contains fewer than 17 students, so you can rest assured that you’ll receive only the closest, most personalized instruction. Online courses are taught via a medley of instructional approaches, including live streaming video and audio, recorded video and audio, smartphone apps, and more.

As a student in this degree, you’ll have access to all the technical support you might need along with resources like writing workshops, academic counseling, career placement assistance, and more. You will be able to customize your curriculum with an elective focus so that you can combine your foundational coursework with your passions.

Tuition starts at just $750 per credit hour in this affordable program, which is ranked not only as one of the Best Online MBA Programs overall by the U.S. News & World Report, but also as one of the Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans. It is also recognized as a top-5 program nationally for the enrollment of women in 2018 by the U.S. News & World Report.

To apply, you will need to submit an online application along with your supporting documents. Generally, this includes a transcript from every college you have attended (there is no specific major listed as a prerequisite for the master’s degree). You will also need to submit a resume describing your work experience along with letters of recommendation. Although admissions is rolling, you should aim to get your materials in as soon as you can—there’s no time to waste!