A ranking of the best online master's in management degrees. Ranked by affordability, flexibility, and academic quality.
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Recent college graduates applying for one of these positions often find it difficult to break into the job market. Welcome to the Master's in Management, a degree created to bridge the gap between an undergraduate degree and a career.
Geared primarily to young workers with a college degree, but little work experience, these programs are some of the best in the world. According to the research of the GMAC, programs are currently seeing a huge upswing in popularity in the United States.
It is easy to get lost sifting through non-MBA Master's degree options. To help you make your decision, we have done all the demanding work. Having researched the best online Master's in Management degrees, we can lay everything out in an easy-to-digest manner. First, some general information on what differentiates the Masters in Management from a traditional MBA. The main differences are:
Work experience: These degrees often aim towards students who lack the experience needed to get into an MBA program. Many programs require little or no work experience
Cost: Master's in Management degrees tend to cost much less than MBA degrees
Focus: Programs tend to be more theoretical in nature and focus on developing specific skill sets
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Online education has emerged from the days of dubious respectability. If completing a degree online is foreign to you then consider findings from the National Center for Education Statistics. They found of the 2.9 million graduate students in the U.S. in 2012, over 22 percent studied exclusively online.
And if you're interested in seeing some more rankings of online degrees, check out our ranking of the Best Online Colleges and Universities. In terms of business advancement, the best online Master's in Management degrees are all reputable and well-regulated options for career advancement. Saving money and flexibility further add to an appealing education.
What are the best online Master's in Management?
A large selection of online options offers students endless opportunities in the field of management. Before you write your tuition check, it is imperative to ensure you are enrolling in a quality program.
Our top 35 ranking is determined by three factors: student feedback, accreditation, and graduate success. Past and current students are gathered from a range of online student rating sites. Topics include campus, course selection, and faculty relations. Accreditation is dependent on entrance exams, student/faculty ratio, graduation rate, endowment, and reputation.
Graduate success is measured by weighing financial cost, including aid, against average salary. We rely on data from the National Center for Education Statistics' IPEDS database, Payscale, individual college websites, and U.S. News and World Report.
Indiana University Bloomington’s academic catalog includes rigorous graduate education available online. A notable option is the MS in strategic management developed for learners with a bachelor’s in management. Enrollees have more control over their schedules by completing the rigorous graduate curriculum remotely.
The benefits of a 16-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that students enjoy include individualized attention, more room to collaborate, and faculty mentorship opportunities. Learners receive strong preparation using a curriculum that emphasizes advanced theoretical concepts and practices in management. This higher-level academic preparation is a prerequisite for career advancement or a doctoral program in this field and related ones.
The tuition rate stands at $9,501 per year for Indiana residents, and $31,932 for out-of-state residents. Many degree-seekers reduce this bill with grants and scholarships from the school and third parties. They may also be directed to financial aid, used by about 31% of the school’s enrollees, as a means to fund their education.
Average Tuition
In-state
$9,575
Out-of-state
$35,140
Retention Rate
90%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
43,260
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
19%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
Boston University
Boston, MA
4 years
Online + Campus
From the Massachusetts campus, Boston University is a private college with graduate programs in different fields. With a total of 24 remote master's degrees available, the institution is a leader in online education for graduate students. Among these is its master of science in project management for graduate learners in business management.
The management program can fit into busy schedules because of its adaptability and flexibility. Students can earn the degree by attending sessions and completing coursework at convenient times that often do not require real-time interaction. This format does not come at the expense of academic rigor or advanced career preparation.
Applicants receive admittance at a rate of 19% per year, but some programs may vary. A bachelor’s degree in the field, or a related one, is the usual threshold for entry into a master’s program. Contact the school to see how to apply to this program and submit the required documents.
Average Tuition
In-state
$54,720
Out-of-state
$54,720
Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
19%
Students Enrolled
33,720
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#3 Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
Michigan State University, a public college, offers graduate programs in different fields from the East Lansing campus. People interested in graduate programs they can pursue from a distance can choose from 19 master's degrees available online. The master's in management, strategy, and leadership is one such option for students interested in the field.
Online education's flexibility and adaptability make it an attractive choice for many graduate students. Caretakers, workers, and other busy enrollees appreciate the ability to schedule instruction and coursework in a way that works with their schedules. Students receive the rigorous academic preparation they expect without sacrificing quality.
Applicants receive admittance at a rate of 71% per year, but some programs may vary. Master's degree-seekers usually need to have a bachelor's degree in the same or a similar field in order to receive consideration. Consult with the program to find out more about entrance and application requirements like transcripts, interviews, and recommendation letters.
Average Tuition
In-state
$15,555
Out-of-state
$40,384
Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
49,809
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
26%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
Penn State World Campus
University Park, PA
4 years
Online
Penn State World Campus, a public college, develops programs that provide a unique learning experience requiring little to no attendance on the University Park campus. A leader in online graduate education, the institution offers 52 online master's degrees. Those interested in the business management field should explore the master of engineering management.
Graduate students can use online education such as this program to accomplish a goal that may otherwise seem unachievable because of logistical issues. Caretakers, workers, and other busy enrollees appreciate the ability to schedule instruction and coursework in a way that works with their schedules. Students receive the rigorous academic preparation they expect without sacrificing quality.
The school accepts an average of 76% of applicants each year, though this number can vary between programs. Interested learners will need a bachelor's degree in order to be considered for this program, but other requirements may apply. Contact the school to see how to apply to this program and submit the required documents.
Average Tuition
In-state
$13,484
Out-of-state
$13,484
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
Not provided
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#5 Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
Stevens Institute of Technology
Hoboken, NJ
4 years
Online + Campus
Business management students from around the country attend Stevens Institute of Technology for the top-ranked online master of engineering in engineering management, one of the best programs in its class. The degree goes much deeper in training highly skilled workers in the field compared to a bachelor's. The master's in engineering management provides preparation for a terminal degree such as a Ph.D.
People see the appeal of remote learning, and that is a draw for the school. Students report being able to work and prioritize other obligations without sacrificing advanced education. Enrollees benefit from a supportive learning environment no matter the mode of delivery they choose to pursue advanced education at this institution.
The application requirements for this program include a bachelor’s degree and transcripts, but the department can provide more information. About 40% of applicants get accepted to this school on average, but applicants may find that programs have different averages. Popular funding streams for those who qualify include loans and scholarships, and tuition costs New Jersey residents about $36,680 per year.
Average Tuition
In-state
$52,134
Out-of-state
$52,134
Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
40%
Students Enrolled
7,283
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
27%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#6 Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
Business management students attend The University of Alabama for top-ranked degrees such as the online master's degree in management with a concentration in global business. A bachelor’s degree provides foundational education compared to the advanced training in this program. Students earn this master of arts in management so they can also pursue a doctorate later on if they choose.
Learners like the fact that this program’s format helps them more efficiently manage their time. The program gives them an opportunity to manage various aspects of their lives without sacrificing the advanced education a master’s degree provides. Another benefit is the support that enrollees receive from faculty and services such as career advising to help enrollees plan their future.
The application requirements include a bachelor’s degree, unless the program states otherwise. School data show the acceptance rate stands at 83%, but some programs may differ. Once accepted, students can explore financial aid options to help pay for tuition, which stands at around $10,780 per year for Alabama residents.
Average Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
38,100
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
13%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Daytona Beach, FL
4 years
Campus
Without significantly interrupting their lives, graduate students can earn degrees at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, an institution that emphasizes flexibility and accessibility. Though located in Daytona Beach, Florida, the school offers online master's degree opportunities for remote learners, including the master of science in engineering management. This adaptable degree is ideal for full-time workers, caregivers, and others who want to pursue graduate education but need flexibility to do it.
Applicants will need to review the program page for more admissions information, but a bachelor’s is usually a starting point for a master's program. The program provides advanced education beyond a bachelor’s, preparing enrollees for career advancement and other opportunities. Another benefit of this degree is preparation for a doctoral program or another terminal credential.
Students studying from within Florida or other states pay an average of $17,712 per year. Learners can contact the financial aid department to find out more about if they qualify for grants and scholarships. Loans offer a viable option to help fund students’ tuition bills.
Average Tuition
In-state
$35,424
Out-of-state
$35,424
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
61%
Students Enrolled
7,056
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
1%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
Concordia University, St. Paul
Saint Paul, MN
4 years
Online + Campus
Concordia University, St. Paul is a private college in Minnesota. The institution’s 20 online master's degrees are a big draw to many people who want to study from wherever they live. Learners interested in business management can pursue the master's degree in leadership and management among the options.
Logistics is no barrier to earning this degree, which was designed with adaptability and flexibility in mind. Professionals, caretakers, and other busy enrollees can attend virtual sessions and complete assignments at convenient times. The program provides this opportunity without sacrificing the rigor that prepares students for higher-level work and further education.
The admission rate for this school is 98% on average per year, but expect some variations across programs. Master's degree-seekers usually need to have a bachelor's degree in the same or a similar field in order to receive consideration. Consult with the program to find out more about entrance and application requirements like transcripts, interviews, and recommendation letters.
Average Tuition
In-state
$22,800
Out-of-state
$22,800
Retention Rate
64%
Admission Rate
98%
Students Enrolled
5,137
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
Brandeis University
Waltham, MA
4 years
Online + Campus
Brandeis University is a private college in Waltham, Massachusetts. A leader in online graduate education, the school offers seven remote master's programs. Those interested in the field should explore the master's in project and program management.
Graduate students can achieve their academic goals while attending to busy lives when they enroll. Recorded video sessions may be available to allow anytime viewing, and faculty may let enrollees complete coursework at their own pace within a given timeframe. A key feature of online learning here is a blend of academic rigor and flexibility that strongly prepares students for advanced positions in their field.
The school’s admission statistics show that about 30% of applicants get in, with some variations across programs. The requisite background for entry into a master’s program is usually a bachelor’s degree and other requirements. Explore the program website for all of the application details such as how to submit transcripts and letters of recommendation.
Average Tuition
In-state
$55,340
Out-of-state
$55,340
Retention Rate
93%
Admission Rate
30%
Students Enrolled
5,825
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
7%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#10 Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
Liberty University’s academic catalog includes rigorous graduate education available online. The master's degree in human resource management has a lot of the qualities people with a bachelor’s in business management need to advance their education in this field. Enrollees have more control over their schedules by completing the rigorous graduate curriculum remotely.
The school has a 17-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that benefits students in the master's in human resource management program. Learners receive strong preparation using a curriculum that emphasizes advanced theoretical concepts and practices in business management. This degree positions the holder for career advancement and higher-paying positions.
Affordability is a top issue, and the school charges Virginia residents and out-of-state learners $7,980 per year. Many degree-seekers reduce this bill with grants and scholarships from the school and third parties. The comprehensive suite of financial aid options also include student loans, which about 57% of the school’s enrollees use to fund some or all of their education.
Average Tuition
In-state
$15,417
Out-of-state
$15,417
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
85,586
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#11 Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
Southeast Missouri State University
Cape Girardeau, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
Southeast Missouri State University is a public college with many programs to offer from the Cape Girardeau campus. People who need flexibility are drawn to the institution because of 13 master's degrees available online. The master's in management is ideal for learners interested in the business management field.
The adaptability of this program is a big draw for students with a hectic schedule that demands flexibility. They can earn the degree by attending sessions and completing coursework at convenient times that often do not require real-time interaction. The degree provides a rigorous education that does not sacrifice strong preparation for career advancement.
Applicants receive admittance at a rate of 86% per year, but some programs may vary. A bachelor’s degree in the field, or a related one, is the usual threshold for entry into a master’s program. The department can tell you more about application requirements such as transcripts, interviews, and recommendation letters.
Average Tuition
In-state
$6,606
Out-of-state
$12,636
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
10,637
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#12 Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
Indiana Wesleyan University
Marion, IN
4 years
Online
A private college situated in Marion, Indiana Wesleyan University administers a comprehensive catalog of degrees. A leader in online graduate education, the institution offers 29 online master's degrees. Those interested in the business management field should explore the master of science in management program.
The program can fit into busy schedules because of its adaptability and flexibility. Real-time interaction is often not required, and enrollees can complete coursework at their own pace within a given timeframe. This online format allows faculty to seamlessly integrate academic rigor, advanced career preparation, and flexible scheduling.
Master's degree-seekers usually need to have a bachelor's degree in the same or a similar field in order to receive consideration. Contact the school to see how to apply to this program and submit the required documents.
Average Tuition
In-state
$8,453
Out-of-state
$8,453
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
11,410
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#13 Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
Salve Regina University
Newport, RI
4 years
Online + Campus
Business management students attend Salve Regina University for top-ranked degrees such as the online MS in innovation and strategic management. A bachelor’s degree provides foundational education compared to the advanced training in this program. The master's in innovation and strategic management program prepares students for doctoral degrees and other terminal programs.
The school designs this program to be delivered using an established online format, a big draw for many learners. Students can juggle their various responsibilities thanks to this program's flexibility. Another benefit is the support that enrollees receive from faculty and services such as career advising to help enrollees plan their future.
Degree-seekers interested in pursuing a master’s usually need a bachelor’s in the major or a related field to apply. The admission rate is an average of 74% of applicants. Once accepted, students will pay $10,890 per year in in-state tuition, with grants, loans, and scholarships popular funding streams for those who qualify.
Average Tuition
In-state
$40,750
Out-of-state
$40,750
Retention Rate
85%
Admission Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
2,771
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
22%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#14 Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
Minot State University
Minot, ND
4 years
Online + Campus
The master of science in management at Minot State University maintains high ranking among similar online programs for business management students. Learners pursue this degree to build on prior knowledge attained in a bachelor’s, training specifically related to the field. The master of science in management prepares students for doctoral degrees and other terminal programs.
This program offers a format conducive to effective time-management that many learners need. Students may want an advanced degree but have other concerns such as caregiving and employment, and this flexible degree supports those endeavors. Enrollees move through the program with faculty support, assistance such as career advising, and the ability to tailor the educational experience to their career aspirations.
For consideration, applicants need a bachelor’s to apply to this program unless otherwise stated. Acceptance letters go out to about 67% of applicants to this school, but expect some differences across programs. Degree-seekers can use financial aid such as loans and grants to pay the annual tuition, which is approximately $8,049 for North Dakota residents.
Average Tuition
In-state
$6,088
Out-of-state
$6,088
Retention Rate
72%
Admission Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
3,125
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#15 Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
American Public University
Charles Town, WV
4 years
Online
American Public University, a private college, offers graduate programs in different fields from the Charles Town, West Virginia, campus. A leader in online graduate education, the school offers 32 remote master's programs. Learners interested in business management can pursue the master of arts in management among the options.
The program can fit into busy schedules because of its adaptability and flexibility. Caretakers, workers, and other busy enrollees may find it easy to work this master’s degree into their schedules. The program provides this opportunity without sacrificing the rigor that prepares students for higher-level work and further education.
Interested learners will need a bachelor's degree in order to be considered for this program, but other requirements may apply. Consult the program to find out more details like how to submit transcripts and recommendation letters if required.
Average Tuition
In-state
$6,804
Out-of-state
$6,804
Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
45,249
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#16 Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
Southwestern College
Winfield, KS
4 years
Online + Campus
At Southwestern College, prospective graduate students can earn business management degrees while they work or juggle other responsibilities. Learners can choose the master of science in management from eight online master's programs, some of them top-ranked degrees offered from the Winfield, Kansas, school. Graduate education here is designed to be accessible for working people, including professionals and caregivers, who need flexible schedules.
The admission criteria for a master's varies depending on the degree, but applicants typically need a bachelor’s in a related major. What the MS in management program provides is advanced preparation through an intensive curriculum that may involve research opportunities and other hands-on experience. This credential lays the foundation for a doctorate or other terminal degree.
Competitive tuition rates are a key selling point at this school, which charges residents of Kansas and other states $11,340 per year. Learners can contact the financial aid department to find out more about if they qualify for grants and scholarships. In addition to financial aid students don’t need to pay back, they may also want to consider federal or private loans.
Average Tuition
In-state
$31,500
Out-of-state
$31,500
Retention Rate
66%
Admission Rate
52%
Students Enrolled
1,512
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
60%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#17 Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
Benedictine University
Lisle, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
The master's in management and organizational behavior at Benedictine University maintains a high ranking among similar online programs for business management students. The program prepares learners for higher-level work in the field than a bachelor's degree typically allows. The master's in management and organizational behavior provides preparation for a terminal degree such as a Ph.D.
This program offers a format conducive to effective time-management that many learners need. Students can juggle their various responsibilities thanks to this program's flexibility. Enrollees benefit from a supportive learning environment no matter the mode of delivery they choose to pursue advanced education at this institution.
Degree-seekers interested in pursuing a master’s usually need a bachelor’s in the major or a related field to apply. The acceptance rate is 42% at this school, but expect some differences across programs. Popular funding streams for those who qualify include loans and scholarships, and tuition costs Illinois residents about $18,273 per year.
Average Tuition
In-state
$31,084
Out-of-state
$31,084
Retention Rate
69%
Admission Rate
42%
Students Enrolled
4,401
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#18 Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
Webster University
Saint Louis, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
The online master's in management and leadership Webster University is one of the nation’s top-ranked programs for business management students. Learners receive the advanced training employers expect from highly skilled professionals. Students earn this MA in management and leadership so they can also pursue a doctorate later on if they choose.
A big draw to this program is the convenient online format that many learners appreciate. Students do not need to sacrifice other important aspects of their lives such as work and family to earn this degree. Enrollees move through the program with faculty support, assistance such as career advising, and the ability to tailor the educational experience to their career aspirations.
Degree-seekers interested in pursuing a master’s usually need a bachelor’s in the major or a related field to apply. Those who apply can expect an acceptance rate of about 57%. Financial aid options such as loans and scholarships can help students pay for tuition, which is $13,500 per year for Missouri residents.
Average Tuition
In-state
$28,500
Out-of-state
$28,500
Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
9,860
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#19 Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
The Graduate Center
New York, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
A public college situated in New York City, The Graduate Center administers a comprehensive catalog of degrees. People interested in graduate programs they can pursue from a distance can choose from seven master's degrees available online. Learners interested in business management can pursue the master's in business management and leadership among the options.
The program can fit into busy schedules because of its adaptability and flexibility. Caretakers, workers, and other busy enrollees appreciate the ability to schedule instruction and coursework in a way that works with their schedules. Deep experience providing rigorous degrees that emphasize both quality and flexible learning is a hallmark of this institution.
Degree-seekers usually need a bachelor’s degree in the major or a related field for entry into a master’s program. The department can tell you more about application requirements such as transcripts, interviews, and recommendation letters.
Average Tuition
In-state
$6,930
Out-of-state
$14,880
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
8,503
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
45%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#20 Best Online Master’s in Management Programs
Colorado Technical University
Colorado Springs, CO
4 years
Online
Colorado Technical University delivers one of the nation’s top-ranked online master's in management programs to business management students around the country. Learners receive the advanced training employers expect from highly skilled professionals. Those who complete the master of science in management can also choose to pursue a terminal degree, such as a Ph.D.
This program offers a format conducive to effective time-management that many learners need. Students do not need to sacrifice other important aspects of their lives such as work and family to earn this degree. Enrollees also like the fact that whether they study in person or online, faculty serve as mentors who can adequately prepare them for advanced work.
The school typically requires that master’s degree-seekers hold a bachelor’s degree to apply. Financial aid options such as loans and scholarships can help students pay for tuition, which is $13,710 per year for Colorado residents.
Average Tuition
In-state
$11,896
Out-of-state
$11,896
Retention Rate
44%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
27,232
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
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