Most Affordable Online Master’s in Management
Are you ready to find your fit?
The highest-quality master’s in management programs are ones that place professional preparation at the top of their mission.
And of those, it doesn't hurt when they're the most affordable programs around.
A degree in Management is ideal for those who are hoping to immediately land a managerial role upon graduation, or who are looking to advance in their career. This degree will not only allow students to understand the fundamentals behind managerial theory, but will also give practical, hands-on experiences that graduates can use in their career.
What kind of Management degree should you get?
An online degree in Management is ideal for already-working adults and non-traditional students, while a traditional degree in Management may be suitable for those who have yet to enter into a managerial role. Both degrees usually have special concentrations that allow a more in-depth study of a particular field. Students should meet with a career counselor to decide which specialization is right for them. Students interested in other cheap online options should look at our Most Affordable Online Colleges ranking.
How much money do people make with a degree in Management?
Because the study of management is so broad, the amount one makes will depend on the field, location, and company. According to Business Management Degree.net, some of the highest paying jobs are computer and information system managers, CEOs, medical and health services managers, human resources managers, and engineering managers.
What can you do with a degree in Management?
A degree in management prepares people to be in leadership roles in a variety of organizations. For example, general managers oversee various operations within a company. Management consultants are often contracted managers who assist companies in seasons of change. Project managers lead initiatives from start to finish, assigning tasks to certain departments and making sure the overall operation runs smoothly.
What are the requirements for a degree in Management?
There are no specific requirements in order to obtain a degree in Management, other than schools’ minimum GPA requirements in order to be selected for the major. Anyone is eligible to learn more about how they can be a more effective leader.

What are the most affordable Online Master’s in Management?
Below is a list of College Choice’s most affordable online master’s in Management. Schools were ranked using various data such as return on investment, average amount of financial aid given, projected starting salary, etc. All data was from the National Center for Education Statistics’ IPEDS database, Payscale, the U.S. News & World Report, and individual college websites.
Ranking
See our rankings methodology page.
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Northwestern State University of LouisianaLocation
Natchitoches, LA
Tuition$11567
Graduation Rate38%
Overview
Located in the small city of Natchitoches, LA, this public university is home to mascot Vic the Demon along with over 9,000 students. U.S. News and World Report has ranked Northwestern State University of Louisiana among having the Best Online Programs. In fact, the university now offers an affordable online Master of Arts in Art the Study of Fine and Graphic Arts.
Program Features
Offered through the universitys Mrs. H. D. Dear, Sr. and Alice Estelle Dear School of Creative and Performing Arts, this 33-hour graduate program offers many areas of focus. Required courses may include:
Advanced GraphicsResearch in Art HistoryCreative Research ExhibitionAdvanced Problems in Commercial ArtWhile this is an online program, all students are required to attend two three-week summer sessions or one semester at the beginning of their degree. Additionally, graduates must complete an on-campus thesis exhibition.
Notables
For students who attend NSU exclusively online, graduate tuition fees are $475 per credit-hour up to 9 hours, then just $100 per credit-hour. Northwestern State University of Louisiana is consistently ranked among the countrys Most Affordable Online Colleges. Financial aid and scholarships are also available for those taking online courses.
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City University of New YorkLocation
New York, NY
Tuition$6671
Graduation Rate95%
Overview
The City University of New York is the third largest university system in the U.S. offering bachelors, masters, dual degrees, certificates, and professional non-degree programs. The CUNY School of Professional Studies, housing its online masters degree in management, has grown to over 3,200 students since 2006 and currently hosts grant-funded programs that are worth over $15 million. In addition,ValueColleges.co ranks CUNY among the 50 Best Value Masters in Management Programs
Program Features
The online MS in Business Management and Leadership focuses on maintaining corporate ethical practices in a global environment, with themes related to diversity, sustainability, and consumer trust
- Example courses: Accounting for Business Decisions, Global Strategic Management, Negotiation and Conflict Resolution, etcKey skills: analyze numerical and non-numerical data, leverage managerial skills, execute business strategies, etcOpportunity to connect with the CUNY SPS Entrepreneurship Networ
Notables
This MS program prepares students to enter into a management position in their desired career field with the potential of moving up the corporate ladder. Some potential careers include: data analyst, PR director, operations risk manager, strategy director, etc
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Texas A & M University-CommerceLocation
Commerce, TX
Tuition$8351
Graduation Rate52%
Overview
Texas A M University-Commerce is the second largest university in the Texas A M University System. Commerces Management department strives to create students who have the skills to manage a for-profit or non-profit organization successfully. Their scholarship has been published in several journals such as theHarvard Business Revie and theMIT Sloan Management Review
Program Features
The online MS in Management prepares students to take on management and leadership positions in all fields. On average, students complete 30-39 hours of graduate coursework
- Foundation study in management (9 hours), support coursework (6 hours), advanced courses (9 hours), research (3 hours), and general electives (12 hoursSpring, summer, and fall courses availabl
Notables
The Management Department offers several scholarships such as: the Evelyn David Lancaster Scholarship Fund, the Donny David Doster Memorial Endowment, the Harry N. Mills Memorial Endowment, and the Jim Mann Family Endowment. Students should apply online and check for individual scholarships prerequisites
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Bellevue UniversityLocation
Bellevue, NE
Tuition$8727
Graduation Rate29%
Overview
Bellevue University was founded in 1966 in Nebraska as a military-friendly, affordable college. Its goal is to professionally prepare students for the competitive world. In keeping with its goal of providing accessible education, Bellevue is also a member of the National Scholarship Providers Association (NSPA) that offers financial and merit-based scholarships.
Program Features
The online MS in Management strengthens students management skills and empowers them in leadership. Students can except to receive hands-on training with their strong mentor-style teaching curriculum
- Concentrations: Entrepreneurship, Executive Coaching, Human Resource Management, Marketing, and Project ManagementExample Courses: Portfolio Development, Small Business Operation, Conflict and Negotiation, Internet Marketing, etc
Notables
This program was ranked among the Best Value list for Masters in Management Leadership Programs in 2017 byAffordableColleges.com For the 2017-2018 academic year, each credit costs $565. Students who graduate from this program can expect to acquire skills such as understanding various management styles, meeting facilitation, and creating projects
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American Public UniversityLocation
Charles Town, WV
Tuition$10265
Graduation Rate46%
Overview
The American Public University System was founded by retired Marine Corps officer James P. Etter in 1991. It was reorganized in 2002 with the goal of providing affordable education to working adults, particularly those in the military and veterans. While there are over 200 degree and certificate undergraduate and graduate program, management is currently the top fourth most popular subject to pursue at APU
Program Features
APUs online MA in Management creates students who will be able to pursue mid-to senior-level managerial positions in corporate, nonprofit, government, or military fields
- Concentrations: Entrepreneurship, Human Resource Management, Organizational Leadership, Public Administration, and Strategic Consultin
- Example Courses: Cross-Cultural Management, Marketing Management, Venture Capital, Human Resource Policy, etc
Notables
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to develop strategic business plans, evaluate management issues, and conduct management research. Program graduates are currently employed in a variety of fields such as compliance management, management analysis, cost estimation and investment management
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Minot State UniversityLocation
Minot, ND
Tuition$10756
Graduation Rate40%
Overview
Minot State University is a four-year, public university located in north central North Dakota. MSU is proud to be an institution that offers exceptional, affordable education to a diverse range of students. According to a report byBestColleges.com,MSUs out-of-state tuition is the third most affordable university in the nation.
Program Features
MSUs online MS in Management is a research-oriented program that trains students with strategies for success in modern organizations. Following their three principles of flexibility, quality, and affordability, students are encouraged to take on greater leadership roles
- Example courses: strategic marketing, international management, financial management and accounting, etcExposure to other related fields such as: statistics, accounting, management information systems, etcEvening classes once or twice a wee
Notables
Among the many scholarships and financial aid opportunities given at MSU, there are two specific scholarships with a preference given to management majors: the Luther Hanson Diann Witham Hanson Scholarship and the Don L. Barber Memorial Scholarship. Interested students should apply online and pay special attention to prerequisites.
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Thomas Edison State UniversityLocation
Trenton, NJ
Tuition$24048
Overview
Thomas Edison State University is a public university designed specifically for adults that offers bachelors, masters, and professional certificates. TESU was established in 1972 with the goal of providing high-quality, flexible education for mature adults. In order to offer the most accessible education possible, there are several tuition plans available with different payment periods to allow students to enjoy their education without the added financial stress
Program Features
TESUs 36-credit online MSM degree is a rigorous program designed to develop students to take on the challenges of an organization that functions in the global marketplace
- Concentrations: Accounting, Project Management, Organizational Leadership, Public ServicExample Courses: Economic Issues in Organization, Leading Strategic Change, Accounting Theory, Project Risk Management, etc
Notables
Students can complete this degree in as little as 12 months. Graduates will be able to attain a variety of skills, such as: leadership strategy analysis, improved written and oral communication skills, human capital productivity analysis, and decision making
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Southeast Missouri State UniversityLocation
Cape Girardeau, MO
Tuition$11566
Graduation Rate51%
Overview
Founded in 1873, Southeast Missouri State University is a beautiful campus that overlooks Mark Twains Mississippi River. With about 12,000 students, the SEMO offers more than 125 bachelors and 75 masters degrees. In addition, the university is dedicated to staying ahead of the changing market demands, implementing new technologies and innovation ideas into their programs. In fact, SEMOs MS in Management program was ranked number 3 byValueColleges.comin 2015
Program Features
The online MS in Organizational Management degree is perfect for those who are currently in managerial positions and wish to advance in their career, or for those who would like to pursue leadership in a future job
- Career Linkages, a career counseling center, is available to assist students with job and internship searches and other needs relating to employmenExample Courses: Liability Risks in Products and Services, International Management, Organizational Behavior in Practice, etc
Notables
For Missouri residents, this program is about $300 per credit hour, or about $530 for out-of-state residents. Other than its reasonable price, this program is taught using the latest technology and by professors that nearly all have doctoral degrees. Due to programs like this, for eight consecutive years SEMOs Harrison College of Business was included in thePrinceton Reviews“Best Business Schools handbook
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Tarleton State UniversityLocation
Stephenville, TX
Tuition$11758
Graduation Rate45%
Overview
Tarleton State University was established in 1899 as part of the Texas M University System. It offers about 100 bachelors and masters degrees within its seven colleges. In recent years, Tarleton has been able to expand its online undergraduate and graduate programs, making education more accessible to its students. The Department of Management, which houses its M.S. in Human Resources Management, is one of the largest departments in the College of Business Administration
Program Features
Tarletons online M.S. in Human Resources Management gives students the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to thrive in a rigorous HR setting
- Example Courses: Training Development, Strategic Human Resources, Workforce Planning Talent Management, etcHands-on experience through study abroad or organizations such as the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization (CEO
Notables
Graduates will have developed various skills in the areas of candidate recruitment, labor relations, employee training, and organizational effectiveness. Some potential areas of employment upon graduation include recruiting, risk management, compensations and benefits administration, etc. Eligible students who are interested in gaining applicable business experience during their studies are encouraged to apply for the Delta Mu Delta Honor Society
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University of Maryland-University CollegeLocation
Adelphi, MD
Tuition$12429
Graduation Rate8%
Overview
Originally established as the College of Special and Continuation Studies in 1947, the University of Maryland-University College provides quality education specifically for adults and non-traditional students. It has won numerous awards and recognitions, with some of the notable ones being the 6th Best College for Returning Adults in 2017 byCollege Factua, and being the 1t Most Affordable Online Supply Chain Management Degree in the nation byOnlineU.
Program Features
UMUCs online masters in Management is a career-focused program that prepares students to enter into a specific industry upon graduation.
- 14 specializations such as: Marketing, Financial Management, Public Relations, Criminal Justice Management, etcSpecial concentrations for active-duty military servicemembers and veterans such as: Air and Space Strategic Studies, Marine Corps Operations, etc
Notables
With so many concentrations available, students should research online which career path they would like to pursue and plan accordingly. For instance, a masters with an Intelligence Management Specialization is ideal for entry-level to midcareer professionals who have or are interested in working for national security agencies. In this program, students will learn and discuss theories related to intelligence and develop skills specifically related to this career
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University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical CampusLocation
Aurora, CO
Tuition$12568
Overview
The University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus is a public urban research university that hopes to garner a global reputation in learning, research, creativity, community engagement, and clinical care. Its Business School, which houses its masters management programs, is dedicated to providing quality education through its many business partners, donations, and technology
Program Features
UC Denvers online MS in Management and Organizations 30-unit degree program gives young professionals the opportunity to develop strong business skills to effectively lead and manage organizations in a variety of fields
- 10 specializations such as: Sports and Entertainment, Global Management, Business Strategy, Enterprise Technology Management, etcPossibility of completing a dual degree in an MS in Management/MB
Notables
Because of the practicality of this program to prepare students to immediately take on managerial leadership roles, students are encouraged to use the Business Career Connections (BCC) office. The BCC partners with local employers, provides career counseling, and aids in networking. Online students who are unable to come to campus can check out the various online career counseling services that the college offers
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Indiana University-BloomingtonLocation
Bloomington, IN
Tuition$13289
Graduation Rate78%
Overview
Indiana University-Bloomington is one of the worlds top public universities that was founded in 1820. In fact, in 2016 IU Bloomington was ranked 2t among public colleges byForbes.The Kelly School of Business, which houses its online MS in Strategic Management, has been offering business classes since 1830. It strives to produce students who will be excellent leaders of the global world through its strong commitment to research and education
Program Features
IU-Bloomingtons online MS in Strategic Management teaches students how to problem solve and manage a variety of different organizations. Through a variety of in depth topics, students will feel prepared to take on the challenges of any business
- Highlighted Topics: Organizational Development and Change, Strategic Thinking, Operations Management, Competitive Analysis, and EntrepreneurshipExample Courses: Developing Strategic Capabilities, Strategic Management and Leadership, Marketing in the Era of Digital Technology, etc
Notables
Because this 30-credit program is completely online, students can finish their degree at their own pace in as little as 15 months to as long as five years. In addition, there is the option of adding an online MBA to receive a dual degree. With this option, students can earn two graduate degrees in 63credits instead of 81 credits if taken separately
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Michigan State UniversityLocation
East Lansing, MI
Tuition$14601
Graduation Rate79%
Overview
Michigan State University was founded in 1855 as an inclusive school dedicated to empowering others through education. It was ranked 2t among the nations public universities in 2016 by theU.S. News World Report.In addition, the Broad College of Business which holds its online management program was ranked #1 for its supply chain management graduate program in that same report.
Program Features
MSUs online MS in Management, Strategy and Leadership degree challenges students to critically engage with various business problems and to strategize solutions. This degree can be completed in as little as 20 months
- Graduate certificates available for those that are unable to complete the entire degreExample Courses: Negotiations, Corporate Strategy, Managing Diversity in the Workplace, Creating an Ethical Organization, etc
Notables
This program is currently ranked among the top 20 Best Online Graduate Business Programs by theU.S. News World Report.It also won an award for leadership excellence in 2016. With its high notoriety, graduates can feel prepared to take on various business challenges such as starting ones own business or moving up the corporate ladder to a higher managerial position
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Harvard Extension SchoolLocation
Cambridge, MA
Tuition$15742
Overview
The Harvard Extension School offers 800 courses at the undergraduate and graduate level specifically designed for adult learners. Affordability is a major pillar of their commitment, with an average tuition cost ranging from $1,550 to $2,700 for a 4-unit course. Students are also encouraged to apply for financial aid if they qualify
Program Features
The Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in the field of Management is focused on understanding managerial and business theory through a variety of hands-on approaches. This 12-course online and four-course on-campus program allows students to finish their degree at their own pace while still being a member of the Harvard community
- Option to pursue a graduate certificate to earn a second graduate credential (ie. Marketing Management, Real Estate Investment, Principles of Finance, etc.Courses in Economics, Accounting, Finance, Strategy, Marketing, Organizational Behavior, and Managemen
Notables
Because this degree requires students to come to the Cambridge campus for at least four courses, students can complete this requirement by enrolling in a 15-week fall or spring semester course, three-week January course, three or seven-week summer course, or through a hybrid class. In addition, there is an accelerated on-campus pathway where students can finish the requirement in about four weekends
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Purdue University GlobalLocation
West Lafayette, IN
Tuition$16037
Overview
Purdue University Global offers several programs to prepare students for tests, higher education, and professional training. The school was founded by Stanley H. Kaplan in the late 1930s during the Great Depression when both men and women needed to find work. It then merged with Purdue University in 2018. Today this university offers a variety of accessible degrees, with 95 percent of its students completing their coursework via online programs
Program Features
Purdue University Globals online MS in Management is an accredited program with the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) that challenges its graduates with problems that they will face in the fast-paced business world
- Available Concentrations: Health Care Management, Human Resources, Information Technology, Leadership, Organizational Design and Development, and Project ManagemenExample Courses: Leadership Theory, Health Policy, Employment Law, Organization Diagnosis and Design, Managing Change, etc
Notables
Some program outcomes include: the ability to develop ones own management style for diverse situations, understanding of management theories, and the ability to analyze the ethical and social implications of business decisions. This program is especially invaluable to those who wish to pursue careers in health care administration, leadership, project management, and government.
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Colorado State University-Global CampusLocation
Aurora, CO
Tuition$16232
Overview
Colorado State University-Global Campus is a relatively new university that was founded in 2007 as the first statutorily-defined, non-profit, online state university. Designed to help adult and non-traditional learners with their career goals, education at CSU-Global is affordable and able to fit anyones schedule. It was ranked the fifth best online college in 2017 byBest Colleges.com,and one of the Top 50 Best Value Online Graduate Schools for 2017 byValueColleges.com.
Program Features
CSU-Globals online MS in Management is aimed at professionals who are seeking management roles in a variety of organizations. Each course integrates a portfolio-quality project that allows students the chance to apply the theories theyve learned in a practical setting
- Potential Topics of Discussion: Ethics, Finance, Economics, International Commerce, Strategic Planning, and Research AnalysiPossibility of receiving a dual degree in Management and Organizational LeadershiPractitioner or Research track availabl
Notables
This online degree in Management is ranked number one byTop Management Degree. It is also number one amongBest Value SchoolsTop 14 Cheap Online Masters and MBA in International Management Degree Programs of 2016. Some potential careers include Quality Control Analyst, Budget Analyst, or Administrative Services Manager
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