Earning an MBA in Just 1 Year
Earning an accelerated online MBA can pave the way for various professional opportunities. This degree covers multiple subjects that encompass nearly every business aspect. Graduates find leadership jobs in a business subfield, like human resources, marketing, or finance.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that management jobs will grow 8% between 2021-2031. Similarly, the BLS also projects that employment for business and financial occupations will grow 5% during the same time.
Keep reading to learn more about accelerated online MBA programs, including salary information for graduates, course descriptions, and scholarships.
Frequently Asked Questions on Accelerated MBAs
Can you complete an MBA in one year?
Yes. Degree-seekers can complete an MBA in just one year. Many schools offer accelerated programs with self-paced formats, helping learners to enter the workforce quickly.
How quickly can I get an MBA?
Thanks to accelerated programs and flexible online learning formats, students can earn an MBA in as few as 12 months.
Will an MBA increase my salary?
Typically, MBA graduates experience an increase in salary. According to March 2021 PayScale data, graduates with a bachelor's degree in business administration earn an average $64,930 annual salary. Professionals with an MBA earn an annual salary of $89,850, according to April 2021 PayScale salary data.
Which MBA is the most in demand?
MBA students can usually select a specialization. According to The Princeton Review, the most in-demand specializations include general management, international management, and strategy.
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Why Get an MBA?
Degree-seekers who want to enter the business field should consider earning an MBA. While professionals can pursue entry-level positions in this field with a bachelor's degree, higher-paying leadership positions typically require an MBA.
This degree's multi-subject nature also prepares students to find employment in multiple positions. Learners may even pursue a specialization tailored to their career goals.
Earning this degree in an accelerated online format can allow students to enter the workforce quickly and conveniently. Virtual programs also often cost less than traditional, two-year programs and can help students increase their earning potential.
We asked 363 MBA Students why they wanted an MBA
Here's what they had to say...
Student Opinions
Age/(Gender) |
Background/heritage |
Why did you decide to enroll in an MBA program? |
30 (M) |
African American or Black |
For technological and financial advancement. |
50 (M) |
Asian, Pacific Islander or Asian Indian |
To further my horizons and advance my career. |
78 (F) |
Caucasian or White |
I wanted more education. |
45 (M) |
Asian, Pacific Islander or Asian Indian | I always wanted to get my masters, and for higher paying jobs. |
35 (F) |
Caucasian or White |
To improve my work career and to improve my skills in business. |
40 (M) |
Asian, Pacific Islander or Asian Indian |
To get it done during the pandemic in order to get a better paying job. |
38 (M) |
Caucasian or White |
I need to seek promotions in the next two years. |
35 (M) |
Caucasian or White |
By nature I love learning everything new and I think in our current age every person should learn because we are in the age of technology. I must gain experience for a better life. |
30 (M) |
Caucasian or White |
To achieve a better education and develop in my career. |
30 (M) |
Caucasian or White |
To advance my professional career. |
35 (F) |
Caucasian or White |
To improve my life, and my kids' life. |
See how we collected this data
How Much Does an MBA Cost?
The actual cost varies, but most online MBA programs offer lower tuition than in-person programs. While contacting a prospective school directly gives a better estimate, looking at national averages offers a baseline for comparison.
The National Center for Education Statistics provides data on tuition costs. For the 2020-2021 school year, learners at public institutions spent an average of $12,394 on tuition, while private school students spent an average of $26,621 during the same time.
Pursuing an accelerated online MBA can save students on tuition costs, which often continue to rise yearly. Students who complete this degree quickly may pay a lower, current price. Additionally, online learning saves money on moving, commuting, and living expenses.
An accelerated MBA degree typically does not require labs, which often come with associated fees. Learners should set aside money for a laptop, internet access, and textbooks.
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How Much Do MBA Majors Make?
Salary for an accelerated online MBA graduate depends on several factors. According to the BLS, professionals in management occupations earn a $102,450 median annual salary. Top executives make a median annual salary of $98,980. Both of these salaries exceed the median wage of $41,950 per year for all workers.
Regional location also impacts pay, and employers in larger cities tend to pay more than employers in small cities to make up for living costs. Degree-holders may gauge earning potential in a specific region by viewing current job postings.
Accelerated MBA Course Work
An MBA program covers multiple subjects in business through a management lens. These courses cover topics useful to entrepreneurs at startups and graduates who want to become managers at Fortune 500 companies.
To cater to individuals with specific career goals, most accelerated online MBAs allow students to select a concentration, like general management, marketing, or strategy. Before selecting a program, learners should read through course descriptions to ensure the content aligns with their career goals.
Most MBA courses encourage collaboration, so group projects and class discussions mark two common course characteristics. The following paragraphs highlight three common MBA courses. Remember that not every MBA program offers these classes, but this list provides a sample curriculum.
Strategic Management
In a strategic management course, students discover how to lead teams effectively. The course covers common management theories, effective management tactics for early and late business stages, and the foundations of teamwork. The class also covers the fundamentals of teamwork and how to encourage collaboration among employees.
Marketing Management
Startup entrepreneurs and CEOs for large corporations both need to know marketing basics. The course offers a brief overview of marketing principles. Learners discover how to implement and oversee marketing campaigns, delegate efforts, and effectively use communication channels to reach target audiences. Upon completion, students know how to motivate marketing professionals and perform essential marketing functions.
Human Resources
While not every MBA student decides to work in human resources, each learner should understand the profession. In this course, students fine-tune their basic human resources skills. They learn the payroll process, how to select a benefits package, and ways to attract talent to a company. The course also discusses how to create an inclusive work environment that welcomes diversity.
Certifications and Licensure for Accelerated MBA Students
While business students do not need a license or certification to enter the workforce, these accolades may demonstrate professional competencies to employers. Additionally, the certification process provides valuable education. In this section, we discuss three certifications that accelerated online MBA students may benefit from earning.
Professionals with extensive experience in business analysis should apply for this designation. This certification requires at least 7,500 hours of business analysis work experience acquired in the past 10 years, 35 hours of professional development, and an exam. Product managers, quality assurance professionals, and even trainers may benefit from the certification.
Graduates who pursue this certification must possess specialized skills related to asset management. Aspiring chief financial officers or small business financial consultants alike can apply for the certification by taking an exam and acquiring four years of professional experience. The study material takes about 300 hours to complete.
To succeed, all businesses must attract and retain talent. Students who want to enter the human resources profession may benefit from this certification. Applicants must complete an online training course and pass the Professional Recruiter Certification Exam. This certification costs $995, but an employer may cover the costs.
Accelerated Online MBA Programs
#1 Accelerated Online MBA Programs 2023
Missouri State University-Springfield
- Springfield, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Missouri State University-Springfield, a leader in online learning, offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Graduate students in the accredited master of business administration program build advanced knowledge through a rigorous curriculum and expert faculty. Degree-seekers can use entrance scores to bolster their application. Online students work with advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff to complete their degree. The school's virtual classrooms let enrollees interact with faculty and peers.
The amount students pay per credit is unknown at this time. Master's students can use financial aid such as loans and scholarships to help cover tuition expenses. Degree candidates gain the knowledge and skills necessary to impress employers.
Missouri State University-Springfield Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 9,079
Online Master's Program Totals: 28
Graduate School Tuition Rate: $5,202 in-state; $10,476 out-of-state
Amount of Aid Awarded Per Learner: $5,648
Average Annual Cost: $16,134
Missouri State University-Springfield holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Accelerated Online MBA Programs 2023
University of North Texas
- Denton, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Situated in Denton, University of North Texas offers undergraduate and graduate programs in virtual and in-person formats. The school delivers five online bachelor's programs and 11 online master's programs, which provide scheduling flexibility for busy learners.
The online master of business administration programs is one of the best online business management programs. Master's graduates can apply for positions in the field or advance their current career. To help students succeed academically and professionally, the school provides a variety of support services, including academic advising and career counseling.
Enrollees pursuing online graduate programs benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. Degree-seekers with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants, scholarships, and loans. Private scholarships and institutional fellowships can also help learners fund their master's studies.
University of North Texas Facts:
Price Per Credit: Not Known
Students Receiving Aid: 82%
Students Receiving Loans: 51%
Total Master's Programs: 85
Total Online Master's Programs: 85
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Accelerated Online MBA Programs 2023
Cleveland State University
- Cleveland, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master's programs at Cleveland State University help professionals advance their careers and pursue new opportunities. Experts in the field teach graduate students in the accredited MBA program. Video lectures, assignments, and class discussions cover advanced topics in business management. Full-time students complete the program in about two years. Graduate learners may also choose a part-time enrollment option.
To fund their education, 89% of the institution's learners obtain financial aid and 55% take out loans. The admission rate is 94% for incoming students across all programs.
Cleveland State University Numbers:
Number of Online Students: 5,674
Distance Learning Master's Programs: 8
Graduate School Tuition: $10,014 in-state; $17,134 out-of-state
Average Total Aid Per Learner: $7,351
Average Price After Aid: $16,219
Cleveland State University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting agency.
Percent Online Enrollment
37%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Accelerated Online MBA Programs 2023
Southern Utah University
- Cedar City, UT
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate degree-seekers can enroll in online and in-person programs at Southern Utah University. The public institution's offerings include an online master of business administration. Degree-seekers often maintain employment while enrolled in the flexible program.
Faculty advisors help master's students examine complex issues and develop a strong overall understanding of the field. Enrollees pursuing the master's degree complete a rigorous curriculum that fosters field-specific knowledge and transferable skills. While completing program coursework, master's students hone analytical and leadership skills they can apply to business management careers.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates and offers institutional funding for eligible applicants. Financial aid counselors help degree-seekers explore funding options.
Southern Utah University Numbers:
Online Master's Programs: 11
Total Online Programs: 12
Number of Online Students: 3,951
Price Per Credit: Not Known
Graduate Tuition In-State: $7,574
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $23,784
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
35%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#5 Accelerated Online MBA Programs 2023
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida International University enrolls students in one online program. The Miami-based university educates 26,192 enrollees in its online courses. Distance learners can earn their professional MBA at the college. The accredited curriculum provides a rigorous education valued by employers. The program lets students develop advanced skills and training for business management careers. Learners receive one-on-one attention from faculty thanks to the school's student-to-faculty ratio of 27-to-1.
The university's website provides more information about support services and student organizations. The program charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. This makes the master's degree an affordable option for learners on a budget. The college reports a graduation rate of 63% for its programs.
Florida International University at a Glance:
Total Online Enrollment: 39,863
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 31
Graduate Tuition: $8,912 per year in-state, $21,393 per year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,958
Average Net Price: $9,888
The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Accelerated Online MBA Programs 2023
Columbus State University
- Columbus, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners at Columbus State University can enroll in a variety of top-ranked academic programs, including an online master of business administration. With a variety of online offerings, the public institution enrolls 3,779 distance students. Online classes are ideal for learners with busy schedules.
Degree-seekers fulfill core requirements and take advanced business management courses. Students can customize the master's curriculum based on their interests and professional goals. Online learners develop industry-specific knowledge during flexible coursework. Learners currently employed in the business management field can pursue promotions or raises after earning their master's degree. Current and former students can leverage the institution's career services and alumni network.
The school delivers career advising and financial aid counseling to help graduate learners plan their academic and professional future. Online enrollees pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. Learners may also fund their studies through scholarships and fellowships. The amount students pay per credit on average is unknown.
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Accelerated Online MBA Programs 2023
Oregon State University
- Corvallis, OR
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Corvallis-based Oregon State University educates degree-seekers online and on campus. Learners pursuing a graduate degree from the school can choose from online and in-person formats. Students interested in business can pursue an MBA in business analytics from the institution in a flexible online format.
The master's program requires in-depth coursework, and enrollees benefit from academic and career advising. Busy learners balancing work and school can benefit from the online program's scheduling flexibility. Graduate degree-seekers typically require 1-2 years to earn their master's degree if enrolled full time.
The institution holds accreditation, which means students can qualify for federal financial aid programs. Of the student population, 39% take out loans. Additionally, 85% of learners receive financial aid.
Oregon State University Numbers:
Total Programs: 265
Number of Online Programs: 50
Online Master's Programs: 78
Number of Online Students: 14,977
Average Cost Per Credit: N/A
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
47%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#8 Accelerated Online MBA Programs 2023
University of Florida
- Gainesville, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Florida delivers online and in-person graduate programs from its Gainesville campus. Learners located anywhere in the country can enroll in the online MBA program from the public institution. Ideal for working professionals, the flexible program qualifies graduates for advanced business management positions.
Master's students work with faculty advisors, who provide advice and insights into the business management field. The program's rigorous curriculum helps enrollees develop foundational knowledge and specialized skills in the field. While completing program coursework, master's students hone analytical and leadership skills they can apply to business management careers.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates. Degree-seekers meet with financial aid counselors to discuss their funding options. Learners pursuing their master's degree online benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding.
University of Florida Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 126
Total Online Programs: 68
Number of Online Students: 24,310
Average Per-Credit Cost: Unavailable
Graduate Tuition In-State: $10,770
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $27,335
Awards Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Accelerated Online MBA Programs 2023
The University of Texas at Tyler
- Tyler, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Distance learners can pursue high-quality online graduate programs from The University of Texas at Tyler. With 15 online programs, including nine online master's programs, the public Tyler-based institution educates students throughout the country. The school's academic offerings include a master of business administration for graduate degree-seekers interested in the field.
Students with personal or professional obligations often benefit from the online business management program's flexible scheduling options.
Learners gain specialized knowledge during advanced classes. Graduate students can complete internships to gain experience and bolster their resume. Degree-seekers typically complete the master's program in 1-2 years. Admissions advisors provide prospective applicants with details about application deadlines and requirements.
The school's affordable tuition rates make graduate studies more accessible. Graduate tuition rates at the institution average $5,850 for Texas residents and $14,328 for out-of-state students. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees with financial need to qualify for federal grants and loans. At the school, 85% of students receive financial aid to fund their education.
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Accelerated Online MBA Programs 2023
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Edinburg, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners can enroll at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley to pursue respected master's degrees in many fields, including business management. While many of the institution's students pursue their degree on campus in Edinburg, 14,840 students attend online classes. The convenient, accessible format appeals to working professionals and busy adults seeking a graduate degree.
The master of business administration program features a rigorous curriculum and meets high academic standards. Graduate students consult with faculty mentors to select courses based on their professional goals. The online program prioritizes flexible scheduling and specialized industry skills development. Master's degree-holders often qualify for promotions or raises. Current and former students work closely with career services to transition from the program into the workforce.
To help learners explore their funding options and plan their future, the school delivers career advising and financial aid counseling. Students pursuing their master's degree online benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding. Additional financial aid options include private scholarships and fellowships. The institution's cost per credit is unknown.
Percent Online Enrollment
51%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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Survey Methodology
All data was collected between 6/14/21 and 7/3/21. Respondents were fielded by Lucid LLC. All 343 respondents in the study were screened by multiple quality checks, including systems like Relevant ID, and responses were manually reviewed to ensure consistency and accuracy. Survey participants include 169 currently enrolled MBA students and 174 graduates from MBA programs within the past 6 years. Respondents are between 21 and 78 years of age and identified as 45% Female, 54% Male, and 1% non-binary.
Student testimonials have generally been obtained with the offer of compensation for completion of a survey (e.g., entrance into a gift card drawing). Such testimonials are the opinions of such students and surveys are designed to avoid influencing such testimonials either positively or negatively. All student respondents were supplied by Lucid LLC.