Online master’s programs in business administration are designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree and want advanced business training. Most programs center on the MBA, though some schools offer related master’s degrees with a more focused emphasis.
This page explains how online MBA programs are structured, what coursework typically includes, and what to compare across schools.
It is a graduate-level program that builds advanced business knowledge through online coursework, often centered on the MBA. Some schools also offer related master’s degrees with a more focused emphasis.
An MBA is the most common type of business administration master’s degree. Some schools offer related master’s programs with a more specialized focus.
Common options include general MBA programs, MBAs with concentrations or elective tracks, and specialized master’s degrees focused on a specific business area. Some programs also include foundational courses for students from non-business majors.
Most programs include a shared core before electives or concentrations. Common subjects include accounting, finance, marketing, operations, leadership, analytics, and strategy or capstone coursework.
Requirements vary by school, but most programs require a completed bachelor’s degree. Common elements include transcripts, a resume, and written statements or essays, plus any additional materials a program requests.
Programs may use standard term schedules, accelerated shorter terms, or part-time options with lighter course loads. These options mainly change pacing and workload.
For a full overview of all degree paths, start with the Business Administration Program Guide.
How we rank schools: Rankings are based on available IPEDS and College Scorecard data including graduation rate, admission rate, program availability, completions, and published tuition. Data is informational only—always confirm details directly with each school.
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
While the MBA is the most widely recognized option, schools may offer different program structures.
Common formats include:
Understanding the structure helps you compare depth, pacing, and specialization.
Most online MBA programs include a shared core curriculum before electives or concentrations.
Common graduate level subjects include:
To see how graduate coursework compares to undergraduate programs, review the Business Administration Curriculum.
Many online MBA programs allow students to tailor coursework through concentrations or flexible electives.
Common concentration areas include:
Explore options here: Business Administration Concentrations
Admissions requirements vary by institution, but most master’s programs require a completed bachelor’s degree.
Common elements include:
Some programs offer foundational courses for students without a business background.
Review details here: Business Administration Admissions Requirements
Online master’s programs are often designed for working students and offer multiple pacing options.
Common formats include:
Compare pacing styles:
Master’s programs differ significantly from undergraduate business degrees.
Key differences include:
For a side-by-side comparison, see: BBA vs MBA
Accreditation is a critical factor when evaluating master’s-level programs. Confirm that the institution holds recognized accreditation before applying or enrolling.
Learn what to verify here: Business Administration Accreditation
Whether a master’s degree is worth it depends on your goals, time commitment, and how well the program aligns with your interests and experience.
For a broader evaluation framework, see: Is a Business Administration Degree Worth It
