New research highlights the most affordable online MBA programs available in the US for 2024. This list is based on tuition costs per credit hour and the total number of credits required.
Leading Affordable Programs
- Northeastern State University
Northeastern State University tops the list with a tuition cost of $251 per credit hour and a requirement of 36 credits. The program includes comprehensive courses in business analytics, accounting, and finance. Additionally, it can be completed entirely online or in a blended format at the NSU Broken Arrow Campus. - Georgia Southwestern State University
Following closely is Georgia Southwestern State University, with an estimated tuition cost of $257 per credit hour and 30 credits required. Core courses cover advanced business finance, international business practice, and organizational theory and behavior. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher to get qualified. - Fitchburg State University
Fitchburg State University ranks third, offering a tuition rate of $275 per credit hour for 30 credits. This program features specializations in finance, marketing, and accounting. Moreover, it can be completed in as little as 12 months, combining both affordability and efficiency.
Additional Affordable Options
- Eastern New Mexico University
On Fourth is Eastern New Mexico University which requires 30 credits and with a tuition cost of $297.25 per credit hour. The program focuses on developing general managerial skills rather than specialized topics. Students must complete all courses with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. - Missouri State University
Missouri State University comes in fifth place, with a tuition cost of $309 per credit hour and 33 credits needed. In addition to the MBA, the university offers various graduate certificates that can be completed online and integrated into the MBA program itself. - University of the Cumberlands
The University of the Cumberlands ranks sixth, with a tuition cost of $315 per credit hour for 37 credits. Concentration has been given to entrepreneurship and healthcare administration in this program. - Sam Houston State University
Sam Houston State University is seventh, with a tuition cost of $320 per credit hour and 36 credits required. The program features flexible start dates in fall, spring, and summer. - University of Central Arkansas
The University of Central Arkansas is eighth, with a tuition cost of $325 per credit hour and 30 credits. Students have the option to choose concentrations in healthcare administration, information management, or finance. - Texas Tech University
Texas Tech University ranks ninth, with a tuition cost of $333 per credit hour and 30 credits required. The Rawls College of Business offers both full-time and part-time study options, providing flexibility to students. - Southeastern Oklahoma State University
Southeastern Oklahoma State University is tenth, with a tuition cost of $337 per credit hour for 36 credits. The program covers fundamentals in finance, accounting, economics, behavioral management, research, and data analysis.
Summary of the Top 10 Programs
| Rank | University | Estimated Cost per Credit Hour | Total Credits |
| 1 | Northeastern State University | $251 | 36 |
| 2 | Georgia Southwestern State University | $257 | 30 |
| 3 | Fitchburg State University | $275 | 30 |
| 4 | Eastern New Mexico University | $297.25 | 30 |
| 5 | Missouri State University | $309 | 33 |
| 6 | University of the Cumberlands | $315 | 37 |
| 7 | Sam Houston State University | $320 | 36 |
| 8 | University of Central Arkansas | $325 | 30 |
| 9 | Texas Tech University | $333 | 30 |
| 10 | Southeastern Oklahoma State University | $337 | 36 |
Expert Insights
Imed Bouchrika from Research.com commented on the findings:
“Online degrees have become increasingly popular since the pandemic due to their flexibility, which allows individuals to balance professional and personal responsibilities. An MBA provides valuable analytical and problem-solving skills, enabling graduates to excel in various environments and leadership roles. Our research highlights the most affordable programs available, helping you pursue the degree you want, regardless of financial constraints.”
