TOP 10 MOST AFFORDABLE MBA PROGRAMS

Earning a Master’s of Business Administration degree prepares students to build upon their general business undergraduate degrees or business foundation classes and allows them to specialize in high demand business fields. This comprehensive degree prepares graduates to take on leadership roles within their organization or advance to new heights with other opportunities. Individuals who studied another subject in college often choose an MBA to prepare for a new career in management.

Universities are continually reviewing and expanding their program offerings and electives to make this degree flexible and accessible, while still integrating core business skills and cutting edge tools that make this degree a staple in business management. When considering an MBA program, students should weigh the cost, program quality, and the specializations available. The programs included on this ranking are all highly accredited and very affordable. Making this list an excellent place to begin the search for the perfect Master’s of Business Administration program.

1. NAVAL POSTGRADUATE SCHOOL GRADUATE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND PUBLIC POLICY – MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA

The Naval Postgraduate School’s Graduate School of Business and Public Policy offers an elite Master’s of Business Administration with accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Their unique MBA curriculum is formatted to meet the needs of Department of Defense civilian employees, U.S. Navy officers, and defense contractors. Within the program, students will develop superior analytical skills and expertise in areas of financial management, information management, logistics, and acquisitions. The faculty includes experts from both the military and civilian workforce. The school houses the Center for Defense Management Research where faculty and students explore solutions for defense business management challenges. The MBA requires 18 months to complete and includes concentration options in Acquisition Management, Defense Management, Financial Management, Information Management, and Logistics Management. All students attend full-time as part of their employment or military service with tuition being waived for all active United States Navy and United States Marine Corps members.

The Naval Postgraduate School is operated and run by the United States Navy in Monterey, California. They carry regional accreditation with the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission and offer a variety of high-quality degrees; all focused on the increasing combat effectiveness and security in the United States. The Graduate School of Business and Public Policy offers a Master’s of Business Administration with several concentration options. To apply, students must review the eligibility requirements for armed forces officers, enlisted armed forces members, and civilians. They will then need to submit an online application complete with GRE scores and one copy of official transcripts from each university attended.

2. UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST ISENBERG SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT – AMHERST, MASSACHUSETTS

Students can earn a recognizable Master’s of Business Administration degree at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The Isenberg School of Management’s MBA holds accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and is frequently recognized among the best programs in the U.S. by the leading ranking systems. Recognition from these ranking systems assures students that this program is a wise investment that will make an impact on their future career. The UMass Master’s of Business Administration program is offered in a fully online, hybrid, or full-time on-campus format. All options are designed to help busy students find success both academically and in reaching their goals. One way that UMass helps students achieve these goals is by offering a fully funded Fellowship program to all full-time MBA students. This Fellowship program provides full tuition support, a stipend, and health care benefits, as well as access to an influential alumni network and many experiential learning opportunities.

The University of Massachusetts Amherst is a four-year, public school, research university that offers over 100 undergraduate, 75 master’s and 45 doctoral programs to over 30,000 students each year. They hold regional accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education and are consistently named among the top schools in the nation. UMass Amherst is the flagship campus of the University of Massachusetts system and offers degrees through nine schools and colleges including the Isenberg School of Business. To apply to this elite MBA prospective students must submit a full application, which will include two letters of recommendation, GMAT or GRE scores, current and professional resume, transcripts from all universities attended, and a personal essay.

3. TEXAS A&M INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY A.R. SANCHEZ, JR. SCHOOL OF BUSINESS – LAREDO, TEXAS

Students at Texas A&M International University can earn a Master’s of Business Administration degree with prestigious accreditation through the AACSB. The MBA offered through the A.R. Sanchez, Jr. School of Business is 30 credits in length and includes a variety of classes such as core courses in Business Research Methods, Strategic Methods, Financial Statement Analysis, and Managerial Economics. Outside of the core courses students are then able to choose three to four classes within their concentration choices of International Business, International Banking, International Trade and Logistics, and Management. Most options are offered both online and on-campus formats with a focus on fine-tuning students’ pre-existing skill sets and advancing critical thinking skills. Texas A&M International University’s MBA is an excellent investment for those looking for a high-quality program at a very reasonable price point of significantly less than $14,000.

Texas A&M International University is a stand-out member of the Texas A&M University system. The University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges. TAMIU is a four year, public, university that educates just over 7,500 students each year. Their modern campus sits on 300 acres in Laredo, Texas and includes four colleges that offer over 35 undergraduate degrees and 12 graduate level degrees. The A.R. Sanchez, Jr. School of Business provides a well-rounded Master’s of Business Administration degree that is held in high regard in the business education community. To apply, applicants must submit GMAT/GRE scores, an online application along with official transcripts from all universities attended, one-page statement of purpose, current and professional resume, and two letters of recommendation.

4. INDIANA STATE UNIVERSITY SCOTT COLLEGE OF BUSINESS – TERRE HAUTE, INDIANA

Indiana State University’s Scott College of Business offers a top-notch Master’s of Business Administration degree through the Scott College of Business. The program is 33 credit hours in length and carries elite accreditation with the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Classes can be taken on a part- or full-time basis and typically meet one night a week on campus. Before starting, students must have completed Statistics. Once admitted, they will work on business-relevant classes such as Management Accounting, Advanced Management Practices, Strategic Financial Decisions, and Managing the Strategic Workforce. Students are encouraged to use their elective courses to participate in a global experience and complete their degree with a unique capstone course focused on analyzing information and problem solving from a variety of angles. ISU’s Master’s of Business Administration degree is offered at one of the lowest price-points on our list. They can additionally be seen among many of the leading ranking systems in the nation, assuring prospective students that their affordable tuition rates will not mean a sacrifice in program quality.

Indiana State University is a four-year, public school with regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission. The University is located in Terre Haute, Indiana and has an annual student body enrollment of over 13,500 students. ISU houses over 80 undergraduate majors, 75 graduate degree programs, and more than 100 minors, certificate, and licensure programs through seven academic colleges. Graduate students seeking an MBA can earn their degree through the well-respected Scott College of Business. Students interested in this MBA program must submit an online application, copies of official transcripts from all universities previously attended, a statement of purpose, resume or CV, and GMAT/GRE scores.

5. ALBANY STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF BUSINESS – ALBANY, GEORGIA

Students can earn their MBA degree through the College of Business Albany State University. The program holds esteemed accreditation with the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs and offers tuition rates significantly less than $14,000. Albany State’s MBA is 30-33 credits long and provided as a general MBA or with concentrations in Accounting, Healthcare, Supply and Chain Logistics, or Public Administration. While each program offers a unique focus on the Master’s of Business Administration all options include relevant courses such as Financial Management, Organizational Behavior and Effectiveness, Marketing Management, and Economics for Managers. The average student to faculty ratio at Albany State University is 19:1 with over half of the class offerings containing less than 20 students. Small class sizes, respected accreditations, and very affordable tuition rates are just a few of the things that make the MBA at Albany State University a great option for anyone looking to earn their graduate degree in business.

Albany State University is a four year, public, historically black university. With over 6,500 students, Albany State is the largest of the three historically black universities within the University of Georgia system. While the main campus is located on 206 acres in Albany, there are two additional campuses in West Albany and Cordele. They carry regional accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges and offer a variety of degrees through five academic colleges. The College of Business offers an elite and budget-friendly MBA. Applicants are required to submit a 1,000-word statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, an online application, and official transcripts from all universities previously attended.

6. SAVANNAH STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION – SAVANNAH, GEORGIA

Students at Savannah State University can earn a Master’s of Business Administration degree with renowned accreditation through the AACSB. The program can be completed in 30 credit-hours on a part-time basis with evening classes on campus. Students will appreciate a well-rounded curriculum with courses such as Managerial Finance, Management Information Systems, Organizational Leadership, and Marketing Management. Savannah State is committed to delivering high-quality programs to a diverse student population. This commitment is shown through their affordable tuition rates of significantly less than $14,000, as well as, mentoring, community involvement projects, applied research, and exceptionally qualified staff.

Savannah State University is a four-year, public, historically black university that was established in 1890. The University carries regional accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges and serves a select group of under 5,000 students each year. The campus sits on 210 acres with three colleges making up the University. The College of Business Administration offers a Master’s of Business Administration. Students interested in applying this rigorous program must submit an online application complete with one 500-1,000 word essay, transcripts from each university attended, three letters of recommendation, current resume, and official GMAT/GRE scores.

7. ANGELO STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF BUSINESS – SAN ANGELO, TEXAS

Students can earn an affordable and established Master’s of Business Administration degree from the College of Business at Angelo State University. The estimated base tuition cost of the MBA program at Angelo State is one of the lowest of our list, significantly less than $14,000. Even with the low tuition, the University shows a commitment to excellence. The Master’s of Business Administration program is no exception to this standard, offering many opportunities for student success with both online and hybrid options. The program holds prestigious business accreditation with the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. This accreditation attests to the school’s high standards in teaching and business education. Angelo State’s MBA is 30 credit-hours in length and is open to all undergraduate backgrounds. The curriculum is interdisciplinary and covers a variety of topics including marketing, management, accounting, finance, the legal and social environment of business, economics, data analytics, and management information systems.

Angelo State University is a public, four-year university, and a member of the well-respected Texas Tech school system. The Angelo State campus is located in San Angelo, Texas, a small town in the heart of the Lone Star State. The University serves close to 10,500 students annually and offers over 100 majors and concentrations at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral level. The University carries regional accreditation with the prestigious Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges and the College of Business at Angelo State offers a distinguished Master’s of Business Administration degree. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with a GPA of 2.5 or better. A GMAT score of 430, or GRE equivalent, is also required.

8. AUGUSTA UNIVERSITY JAMES M. HULL COLLEGE OF BUSINESS – AUGUSTA, GEORGIA

Students at Augusta University can earn their Master’s of Business Administration degree through the distinguished Hull College of Business. The program holds accreditation with the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and is offered at a very affordable price point of less than $14,000. The Hull MBA is 30 credit-hours in length, recently updated, and offered on a flexible timeline between 12-24 months. A few of the courses included within the degree plan include Managerial Finance, Marketing Management, Management of Information Technology, and Business Analytics for Managers. Students can choose to complete their degree either in the evenings with face to face classes, hybrid format, weekend classes, or entirely online. The learning goals for this top-notch program include improving overall business competency, critical thinking skills, and business professional skills. Those looking to advance their career through higher education will appreciate this program’s focus on relevant skills, as well as, their convenient scheduling options and competitive price point.

Augusta University is a four year, public, research university located in Augusta, Georgia. Each year the University educates close to 8,500 students through their ten highly respected colleges and schools. Augusta University holds regional accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges and the Hull College of Business is well-respected within the business education community. The Hull MBA was recently redesigned in 2016 and offers students the skills needed to compete in today’s ever-changing business world. Those interested in applying to the MBA will need to submit an online application which will include official transcripts from all universities attended, three letters of recommendation, GMAT/GRE scores, and curriculum vitae or resume.\

9. TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-CORPUS CHRISTI COLLEGE OF BUSINESS – CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS

The Master’s of Business Administration program at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi is highly accredited by the AACSB. This 30 credit hour program includes relevant course topics such as Operations Management, Accounting Topics, Administrative Strategy and Policy, and Software-Based Business Solutions. Students are not required to choose an area of concentration, but Finance, Healthcare Administration, and International Business are available for those who wish to further specialize their degree. The College of Business at TAMU-CC is recognized for its Coastal Bend Business Innovation Center which allows business students to participate in partnerships with companies such as Citgo and American Bank. Students will appreciate the many opportunities for professional networking and internships, as well as, the program’s tuition rates that fall far below $14,000.

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi is a distinguished member of the Texas A&M University system. The University was established in 1947 and holds regional accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges. They provide a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs to nearly 12,500 students each year. The College of Business offers a well-recognized Master’s of Business Administration program. MBA applicants need to complete the Texas Common Application and submit official transcripts from all universities attended, GMAT/GRE scores, Resume or curriculum vitae, and an essay expressing educational and professional goals.

10. MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY DILLARD COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION – WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS

At Midwestern State University students can earn a Master’s of Business Administration degree through the Dillard College of Business Administration. This program is offered at a very affordable tuition rate of less than $14,000 and carries esteemed accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Students can complete Midwestern State’s MBA either on-campus of fully online in 33 to 57 credit hours. The curriculum is, and the core coursework includes classes such as Current Issues in Organizational Behavior, Financial Administration, Advanced Applied Business Statistics and Information Technology Management. Outside of core courses, students may choose a concentration in Energy Management or Accounting. Students who obtained their undergraduate degree in a field outside of business are welcome to apply and will be able to choose between a six-credit-hour MBA foundations course or completing 27 credit-hours of individual courses such as Managerial Accounting, Business Finance, Principles of Marketing, and Macroeconomics Principles.

Midwestern State University is a four year, public, liberal arts university that was established in 1922. The University holds regional accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges and serves a close-knit student body of just over 6,000 annually. There are nine graduate programs offered including a Master’s of Business Administration through the Dillard College of Business Administration. Students interested in applying to Midwestern State’s comprehensive MBA program are encouraged to meet with a graduate coordinator and submit an online application. Within the application students will need to request official transcripts from all universities attended and submit GRE/GMAT scores.