15 Cheapest Online MBA Programs in 2024

Looking for the cheapest online MBA programs in 2024? You’ve come to the right place!

An MBA is a valuable qualification that can help you advance your career and secure many well-paid positions across different sectors. However, not everyone can afford an expensive MBA program or doesn’t want to get themselves into mountains of student debt in the process.

Maximize the return on your investment by choosing one of the cheapest online MBA programs in 2024. Below, I have curated a list of accredited programs to consider.

15 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs in 2024: By Cost

The programs below rank among the cheapest MBA programs in the USA. Prices are current and reflect rates displayed on each institution’s respective website.

University	Tuition	Total Tuition
Georgia Southwestern State University	$257/credit	$9,210
Western Governors University	$4,755/6-mo. term	$9,510
Eastern University	$330/credit	$9,900
The University of Central Arkansas	$336/credit	$10,080
The University of Texas Permian Basin	$356/credit	$10,680 – $12,816
Cameron University	$338/credit in-state, $443/credit out-of-state	$11,154 – $19,935
Missouri State University	$348/credit	$11,800
Fort Hays State University	$374.50/credit	$12,358.50
Northeastern State University	$343/credit	$12,340
Southeastern Oklahoma State University	$345/credit	$12,420
Fitchburg State University	$436/credit	$13,080
Lamar University	$421/credit	$13,153
Louisiana Tech University	$475/credit	$14,250
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi	$1,521/course	$15,210
University of Central Oklahoma	$360/credit in-state; $777/credit out-of-state	$15,500 in-state, $17,000 out-of-state, $22,500 international

Cheapest Online MBA Programs in 2024

1. Georgia Southwestern State University

Master of Business Administration

Georgia Southwestern State University has ranked high among the schools offering the most affordable online MBA degrees for the past few years. This is one of the cheapest online MBA programs available to students worldwide.

This program’s students will study Managerial Economics, International Business, Strategic Management, and more courses.

• Credits: 30
• Duration: 2 years
• Tuition: $257 per credit
• Financial Aid: Scholarships, grants, and tuition waivers
• Acceptance Rate: 86%
• Location: Americus, Georgia
• Accreditation: AACSB

2. Western Governors University

Master of Business Administration

WGU is acclaimed for offering affordable education: Each bachelor’s credit costs just 57% of the national average, according to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. This 100% affordable online MBA program allows you to finish the program in 12 months or less.

Some of the courses in this program include Managing Organizations and Leading People, Global Economics for Managers, and Data-Driven Decision-Making. Unlike other institutions, WGU charges per term rather than per credit hour.

• Credits: 34
• Duration: 1 year
• Tuition: $4,755 per 6-month term; total $9,510
• Financial Aid: Scholarships, grants, and loans
• Acceptance Rate: 100%
• Location: Millcreek, Utah
• Accreditation: ACBSP

3. Eastern University

Master of Business Administration in Organizational Management

Eastern University is a private institution that offers a fully online MBA in Organizational Management at an incredibly affordable price, making it the top choice for many.

If you’re looking for program flexibility in your school search, Eastern University’s online MBA follows its self-paced “LifeFlex Modality” format. Textbooks come included and built into the courses, reducing expenses overall.

Students may choose the general track or opt for one of two concentrations: Business Analytics or Healthcare Administration.

• Credits: 30
• Duration: As little as ten months
• Tuition: $330 per credit
• Financial Aid: Military benefits, federal financial aid
• Acceptance Rate: 58%
• Location: St. Davids, Pennsylvania
• Accreditation: ACBSP

4. The University of Central Arkansas

Master of Business Administration

The University of Central Arkansas is a public university offering flexible online programs with the same faculty, content, and qualifications as their on-campus counterparts.

This is one of the cheapest online MBA programs that offers three concentrations: Healthcare Administration, Information Management, and Finance.

Students learn courses like Operations Management, Advanced Accounting Theory, Business Intelligence, and more.

• Credits: 30
• Tuition: $336 per credit
• Financial Aid: Scholarships, grants, student loans, and veteran benefits
• Acceptance Rate: 94%
• Location: Conway, Arkansas
• Accreditation: AACSB

5. The University of Texas Permian Basin

Master of Business Administration

The University of Texas Permian Basin is a public university offering a range of affordable and flexible online programs with six start dates yearly. This affordable online MBA program has the same tuition for in-state and out-of-state students, making it accessible to all.

Students can expect to complete courses such as Accounting Analysis, Production and Operations Management, Financial Management, and more.

• Credits: 30-36
• Duration: 12 months+
• Tuition: $356 per credit
• Financial Aid: Grants, scholarships, and loans
• Acceptance Rate: 95%
• Location: Odessa, Texas
• Accreditation: AACSB

6. Cameron University

Master of Business Administration

Cameron University is a public university with many flexible, fully online programs geared toward working professionals of any discipline. Although it offers one of the cheapest MBA programs available, you can expect the covered topics to be comprehensive.

Courses in this program include Applied Business Strategy, Management Information Systems, Contemporary Marketing Problems, and more.

• Credits: 33-45
• Tuition: $338/credit in-state, $443/credit out-of-state
• Financial Aid: Grants, loans, and scholarships
• Acceptance Rate: 100%
• Location: Lawton, Oklahoma
• Accreditation: ACBSP

7. Missouri State University

Master of Business Administration

Missouri State University is a public university and a strong supporter of online education, with around half its students studying online. The online version is one of the most affordable MBA programs and costs the same for in-state and out-of-state students.

Students can expect an in-depth curriculum that includes Organization Strategy and Policy, Marketing Management, and Financial Analysis courses.

• Credits: 34
• Duration: 1-3 years
• Tuition: $348 per credit
• Financial Aid: Scholarships, grants, and loans
• Acceptance Rate: 93%
• Location: Springfield, Missouri
• Accreditation: AACSB

8. Fort Hays State University

Master of Business Administration

FHSU is a reputed public university offering one of the most affordable MBA programs online. It welcomes students from all occupational and educational backgrounds, including international students.

Fort Hays State University’s MBA includes courses like Advanced Managerial Accounting, Advanced Corporate Finance, Organizational Behavior in a Global Context, and more.

• Credits: 33
• Tuition: $374.50 per credit
• Financial Aid: Grants, loans, scholarships, and military education benefits
• Acceptance Rate: 90%
• Location: Hays, Kansas
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

9. Northeastern State University

Master of Business Administration

The public institution, Northeastern State University, is one of the country’s most affordable. Northeastern State University offers one of the best affordable online MBAs these days.

Through the program, students gain practically-oriented knowledge and skills that will help them excel in the workplace.

Online MBA students will take courses like Analysis for Decision Making, Managerial Accounting, and Marketing Strategy.

• Credits: 36
• Duration: 2 years or less
• Tuition: $343 per credit for Oklahoma Residents (check here for the non-residents price)
• Financial Aid: Scholarships, grants, and loans
• Acceptance Rate: 99%
• Location: Broken Arrow, Oklahoma
• Accreditation: ACBSP

10. Southeastern Oklahoma State University, John Massey School of Business

Master of Business Administration

The John Massey School of Business is renowned for its flexible programs specializing in business and aviation.

The school offers one of the least expensive online MBA programs with 15 concentrations, including Data Analytics, Aerospace Logistics, Women in Leadership, and the usual tracks.

Courses include Behavioral Management, Women in Leadership, Logistical Strategies in Aerospace Administration, and more.

• Credits: 36
• Duration: 12 months+
• Tuition: $345 per credit
• Financial Aid: Grants, loans, scholarships, and waivers
• Acceptance Rate: 74%
• Location: Durant, Oklahoma
• Accreditation: AACSB

11. Fitchburg State University

Master of Business Administration in Human Resources Management

Fitchburg State University offers an affordable online MBA with a Human Resources Management (HRM) concentration. The online courses are designed and taught by the same faculty members who handle the on-campus version of the program.

Students can expect to take HRM concentration classes besides standard courses, including Human Capital Analytics, Legal Issues in Human Resources Management, and The Human Resource Function and the Manager.

FSU is a public institution offering a wide variety of MBAs. If you are not interested in HRM, consider another cheap online MBA program from FSU.

• Credits: 30
• Duration: As little as 12 months
• Tuition: $436 per credit
• Financial Aid: Available
• Acceptance Rate: 86%
• Location: Fitchburg, Massachusetts
• Accreditation: IACBE

12. Lamar University, College of Business

Master of Business Administration – General

Lamar University is a public university whose namesake, Mirabeau Lamar, is credited with founding public education in Texas. The institution offers a wide range of 100% flexible online programs with similar curricula to their on-campus versions.

This affordable online MBA allows you to tailor the program to meet your career objectives with various in-demand concentrations.

Courses include Managerial Decision Making, International Business, ERP overview, and more.

• Credits: 30
• Duration: 12 months
• Tuition: $438 per credit
• Financial Aid: Grants and loans
• Acceptance Rate: 88%
• Location: Beaumont, Texas
• Accreditation: AACSB

13. Louisiana Tech University

Professional Master of Business Administration

As a public research institution, Louisiana Tech University is known for providing high-quality education at affordable rates.

It offers a 100% online Professional MBA with a curriculum mirroring their traditional MBA. Students may select from two concentrations: Marketing or Six Sigma.

Some of the courses in this program include Managerial Economics, Global Perspective in Management, and Strategic Management.

• Credits: 30
• Tuition: $475 per credit
• Financial Aid: Scholarships
• Acceptance Rate: 66%
• Location: Ruston, Louisiana
• Accreditation: AACSB

14. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi

Master of Business Administration

At Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, students can earn an affordable and high-quality online Master of Business Administration from the AACSB-accredited program.

The institution aims to help you develop the analytical, communication, and technology skills necessary to enrich your lifelong career.

As a student, you will be expected to complete courses like Operations Management, Software-Based Business Solutions, Organizational Behavior and Theory, and more.

• Credits: 30
• Duration: 12 to 20 months
• Tuition: $1,521 per course, $15,210 total
• Financial Aid: Scholarships and loans, veterans benefits
• Acceptance Rate: 80%
• Location: Corpus Christi, Texas
• Accreditation: AACSB

15. University of Central Oklahoma

Master of Business Administration – Professional (Online)

The Master of Business Administration – Professional at the University of Central Oklahoma is a fully online program that helps students create career advancement opportunities in various fields.

Although a flexible program, it uses an accelerated format, blending coursework and small class sizes in an environment primed for connection-building.

Students must complete courses like Leadership Development, Business Ethics and Sustainability, Managerial and Operational Analytics, and more.

• Credits: 32-33
• Duration: 16 months
• Tuition: $15,500 for residents, $17,000 for non-residents, and $22,500 for international students
• Financial Aid: Scholarships and tuition waivers for incoming and qualifying current students
• Acceptance Rate: 81%
• Location: Edmond, Oklahoma
• Accreditation: AACSB

Why Earn an Affordable Online MBA

An online MBA is a valuable qualification in business and entrepreneurship in various fields. They allow you to study remotely while continuing in your current job, which is even more financially helpful.

While working on your MBA, you learn skills in analysis, communication, negotiation, and more. Such skills are widely applied and highly desirable by all kinds of employers.

MBAs are typically known to deliver excellent returns on investment by improving job opportunities and increasing compensation potential. However, only some can afford to spend a lot of money on the more expensive programs. Therefore, if you want to learn skills and earn your credentials more affordably, choosing a cheaper online MBA is the way forward.

What Is the Cost of Online MBA Programs?

When it comes to on-campus programs, the average cost of an MBA can vary from $30,000 to $200,000. Such a commitment isn’t always possible, which is why many online schools and public institutions offer programs at $10,000-$20,000.

There are even a few cheap MBA programs under $10,000!

Education statistics have shown that the total cost of an MBA program depends on various factors, such as:

• The reputation of the institution and the program
• Whether the institution offers different rates for in-state or out-of-state students
• The institution’s location (i.e., the cost of online MBAs in Florida will vary from other states)
• Your enrollment status (full-time or part-time)
• Additional costs, such as technology fees or course materials
• Your costs for equipment and internet
• The availability of financial aid

Of course, there are also non-financial costs, such as the time commitment required and your work-life balance while studying. Additionally, whether your program will require you to visit the campus occasionally is worth considering.

Remember to check the accreditations of the programs you’re considering. The best online MBAs will boast accreditations such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

If you’d like to earn a higher education with as little spending as possible, consider some free online Master’s degrees.

Are There Financial Aid Opportunities to Lower Your Online MBA Cost?

Most online MBA programs offer financial aid options. These include scholarships and grants based on either financial need or academic merit. Additionally, federal aid, loans (subsidized and unsubsidized), and veteran benefits are available to online students studying accredited programs.

If you’re lucky, you may be able to acquire post-graduate tuition assistance from your employer.

How I Compiled This List of the Cheapest Online MBA Programs in 2024

While I put together this list of the most affordable accredited online MBAs in 2024, I kept The GradCafe’s goal in mind: To help our readers learn more about their options in education. Therefore, I began researching the online MBA programs available today.

As I curated this list, I considered factors such as:

• Institution and program reputation and school rankings
• Accreditations
• Financial accessibility

An MBA isn’t necessarily one of the easiest Master’s degrees to earn, so finding programs that accommodate various needs is essential. I included programs with shorter durations or the flexibility for hectic schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cheapest MBA Program in the USA?

Many universities offer affordable online MBA programs for students. The programs listed above are some of the cheapest available for accredited, well-recognized programs in the country.

Remember that you can further save money on your low-cost online MBA by applying for scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities, if available.

Is an Online MBA Less Valuable?

Online programs are considered as valuable as their on-campus counterparts. Although some employers may prefer MBAs earned through in-person programs, many others only care about the institution’s reputation and the program’s accreditations.

Is an Online MBA Expensive?

Although the combined costs of tuition and other expenses relating to an online MBA can pile up, an online MBA can still be much cheaper than affordable MBA programs on campus.

For example, earning a 30-credit online MBA under 10k in tuition is possible.

What Are the Admission Requirements for Affordable MBA Online Programs?

While every institution differs in terms of admissions, the below requirements apply to the most affordable online MBA programs:

• A bachelor’s degree, usually including business-oriented subjects
• Work experience
• GRE score or GMAT score
• Your GPA and transcripts
• Two to three recommendation letters
• A personal statement

Each institution’s application requirements will vary: Some may have a GMAT requirement, while others may not. Check with your selected schools before applying.

How Does Accreditation Affect Affordability?

A Masters of Business Administration program must meet an accrediting body’s high educational standards before earning a credential. Programs with more and higher-quality accreditations tend to be more expensive, but various affordable accredited programs offer an excellent balance of value and affordability. Employers generally prefer degrees earned from accredited programs.

Conclusion

You may think that the cheapest online MBA programs are low quality, but this isn’t necessarily true. Many well-known, accredited institutions offer high-quality online MBAs that are well-respected by prospective employers.

Just remember that it’s essential to do your research to ensure you find the best value online MBA for your business education needs.

If you’re looking for the best, consider some of the best online MBA programs in 2024. Or if an MBA isn’t your cup of tea, check out the cheapest online Master’s degrees.