Online MBA Programs

Online MBA programs have absolutely skyrocketed over the past 5 years. Once thought to be fringe graduate programs, reserved for those looking to save money or who simply couldn’t hack it in a “real MBA program,” that stereotype has been effectively shattered.

These programs are rigorous, count on outstanding faculty and are as flexible as you desire. That’s the value added and here are the Top 4 ranked online MBA programs in the U.S.

1. Indiana University-Bloomington (Kelley)

Kelley leads the pack at number 1. The MBA or MS degree is world-renowned, while the flexibility (especially from a faculty availability perspective) is unparalleled. Most students take anywhere from 2 to 5 years to complete the program and the same faculty that instruct the in-situ program also instruct online.

Application works on a rolling deadline and most every student is already employed when they first enroll. The cost is $1,330 per credit.

2. University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (Kenan-Flagler)

UNC comes in a close second, delivering a rigorous program on an innovative, virtual platform. Regarded by many to be at the same level as the in-situ program, students complete the program in a brisk 18 to 36 months. A cool feature with UNC is online students can also take classes in-situ as well. Career management resources help place students, post-graduation, individually tailored to their professional goals/interests.

A bit pricier than Kelley, tuition per credit runs in the $1,800 range and admission is also rolling.

3. Carnegie Mellon University (Tepper)

Don’t want to physically move to Pittsburgh, no problem. Tepper brings the Carnegie Mellon education to you. The Tepper online MBA occupies what’s known as a blended format, combining online learning and technology with weekend activities on-campus. This way online students receive the same benefits and access as in-situ folks.

Enrollment is small at Tepper, just 137 students. Per credit fees are $2,063 and to maintain a small student body there is a fixed deadline of April 18th to apply.

4. University of Florida (Hough)

Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the undisputed gold standard of business school accreditations, face-to-face meetings, co-curricular programming and the chance to study abroad in the global immersion program are prime selling points with Hough. The student network one comes away with here is unparalleled, diverse as diverse can get which is fantastic especially if you’re considering moving into international work post-MBA.

Tuition per credit is an affordable $1,208 and the application deadline is constantly rolling.

The list goes on but if your undergraduate grades are decent to good and you can post an above average GMAT or GRE score, hit this list first. The cream of the crop, guaranteed!