2023's Most Affordable Online MBA Programs In The US Revealed

A leading university ranking site has revealed that Northeastern State University (NSU), a public university with its main campus in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, offers the most affordable online business degree in the US. In the list drawn up by Research.com, Georgia Southwestern State University in Americus, Georgia, is placed second, and Fitchburg State University, Massachusetts, third.

The estimated median starting salary for 2023 MBA graduates in the US is $125,000. Research.com established the ranking based on the most cost-effective options, examining a range of universities that offer online MBA programmes. The focus was on their estimated tuition per credit hour for non-residents and total credits.

Northeastern State University’s tuition cost is $251 per credit hour with a total of 36 credits. The programme covers topics such as business analytics, accounting and finance, and Native American enterprises. It can be completed fully online or blended on the NSU Broken Arrow Campus.

Georgia Southwestern State University’s tuition cost is $257 per credit hour with a total of 30 credits. Core courses include advanced business finance, international business practice, and organisational theory and behaviour. The MBA programme requires a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Fitchburg State University’s tuition cost is $275 per credit hour with a total of 30 credits. The university offers online MBAs in finance, marketing, accounting, and more. The programme can be completed in as little as 12 months.

Eastern New Mexico University ranks fourth with an estimated tuition cost of $297.25 per credit hour and a total of 30 credits. This programme focuses on general managerial skills rather than specialised topics and requires study in all major functional areas of business.

Missouri State University is fifth with an estimated tuition cost of $309 per credit hour and a total of 33 credits. In addition to the MBA, Missouri State offers a graduate certificate to enhance the degree. Many graduate certificate options can be completed online within the MBA programme itself.

The University of the Cumberlands is sixth, with an estimated tuition cost of $315 per credit hour and a total of 37 credits. The degree offers several concentrations including entrepreneurship and healthcare administration.

Sam Houston State University is seventh, with an estimated tuition cost of $320 per credit hour and a total of 36 credits. This programme has start dates in the fall, spring, and summer, making it a flexible choice.

The University of Central Arkansas ranks eighth with an estimated tuition cost of $325 per credit hour and a total of 30 credits. Students can choose concentrations in health care administration, information management, or finance.

Ninth is Texas Tech University, with an estimated tuition cost of $333 per credit hour and a total of 30 credits. Texas Tech’s Rawls College of Business online MBA programme allows you to study either full-time or part-time.

Southeastern Oklahoma State University is tenth with an estimated tuition cost of $337 per credit hour and a total of 36 credits. Coursework for this degree involves fundamentals in finance, accounting, economics, behavioural management, research, and data analysis.

Expert Insights

Imed Bouchrika from Research.com stated: "Online degrees have skyrocketed in popularity since the pandemic as they offer flexibility to balance your professional and personal life. MBAs provide analytical and problem-solving skills which will allow you to work in a range of environments and leadership roles."

These findings outline the most affordable options available for prospective students aiming to achieve their desired degree regardless of their financial situation.