Best Online MBA in General Business Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online MBA in General Business degree program?

• An online MBA in General Business provides a comprehensive education in core business disciplines, including management, finance, marketing, operations, and strategic planning. 
• Unlike specialized MBA programs, this degree offers a broad, flexible curriculum that prepares students for leadership roles across multiple industries.
• Coursework often includes case studies, real-world projects, and collaborative assignments to develop problem-solving, communication, and decision-making skills. 
• Many programs integrate electives, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific career goals. 
• Delivered in a fully online format, these programs enable working professionals to advance their education without sacrificing career momentum, offering the flexibility to study from anywhere while building a strong foundation for long-term success in the business world.

Where can I work with an online MBA in General Business degree?

Graduates with an online MBA in General Business have versatile career options across a variety of industries, as the degree equips them with skills in leadership, management, finance, marketing, and strategic planning.

Typical work settings include: 

• Corporate Enterprises. Overseeing operations, managing teams, and leading business growth initiatives.
• Financial Institutions. Managing investments, budgets, and financial strategies.
• Healthcare Organizations. Coordinating administrative functions and improving service efficiency.
• Technology Firms. Leading product development, marketing, or strategic partnerships.
• Consulting Agencies. Advising clients on business strategy, market expansion, and operational improvements.
• Entrepreneurship. Launching and managing new businesses with a focus on sustainable growth.

How much can I make with an online MBA in General Business degree?

Graduates with an online MBA in General Business can expect a significant increase in their earning potential. 

According to a 2025 Corporate Recruiters Survey by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), the median starting salary for new MBA graduates in the U.S. was $120,000, a substantial premium over the median starting salary for those with a bachelor's degree, which was around $69,000. 

These figures do not even include additional compensation like signing bonuses, which can further boost a graduate's total package. For example, a 2024 report from MIT Sloan found that their MBA class of 2024 had a median signing bonus of $30,000. 

While salaries can vary widely based on industry, location, and prior experience, an MBA consistently proves to be a valuable investment, often leading to a substantial return on investment

List of Best Online MBA in General Business Programs for 2025 

1. University of Texas at Dallas Jindal School of Management 

The University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas) has a highly ranked online professional MBA with a curriculum taught by world-class faculty. multiple start dates. The program offers personalized degree plans, optional international immersion, robust career support, and prestigious rankings, making it an exceptional choice for professionals seeking a general business MBA.

• Program Length: Completion in as few as 21 months to as long as six years
• Tracks/concentrations: Accounting; Business Analytics; Energy Management; Finance; Healthcare Leadership and Management; Information Technology Management; Innovation and Entrepreneurship; Internal Audit; International Management; Leadership in Organizations; Marketing; Real Estate; Strategic Management; Supply Chain Management; Systems Engineering and Management; Double Degree MS/MBA
• Cost per Credit: UT Dallas provides an estimate of $30,818 for residents and $60,307 for nonresidents in total tuition costs
• Required Credits to Graduate: 53 credits
• Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) 

2. Longwood University College of Business and Economics

Longwood University (LU) has a 100% online MBA with a General Business track and a short completion time. The program focuses on decision making and strategic thinking, as well as on technological advancements and insights that factor into leadership. Students gain hands-on experience in running a business through the use of a business simulator. 

• Program Length: As few as 10 months 
• Tracks/concentrations: MBA General Business track 
• Cost per Credit: $450 for in-state students and $460 for out-of-state enrollees
• Required Credits to Graduate: 31 credits
• Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business 

3. Washington State University Carson College of Business

Washington State University (WSU) offers an online MBA in General Business that is designed for flexibility and breadth. This program includes a robust core and allows choosing three electives tailored to specific interests. Students engage in case studies, strategic planning, and capstone projects to become agile leaders in a range of business contexts.

• Program Length: Completion in as few as 22 months
• Tracks/concentrations: MBA General Business track
• Cost per Credit: $898 
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36 credits 
• Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

4. Penn State World Campus

Penn State World Campus has a well-rounded General Management online MBA. This program emphasizes integration, collaboration, and engagement. Students undertake group projects and can also earn graduate certificates in areas like Financial Engineering or Sustainability Strategy.

• Program Length: Approximately two to five years
• Tracks/concentrations: MBA General Business
• Cost per Credit: $1,273 
• Required Credits to Graduate: 48 credits
• Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

5. Louisiana State University in Shreveport College of Business

Louisiana State University in Shreveport (LSU), otherwise known as LSU Shreveport, offers a fast-paced online MBA in General Business with multiple start dates. It focuses on leadership development and essential business skills in areas like economic analysis, financial management, organizational behavior, and data-driven decision-making.

• Program Length: As few as 10 months
• Tracks/concentrations: MBA General Business
• Cost per Credit: $484
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30 credits
• Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

How long does it take to complete an online MBA in General Business degree program?

Most online MBA in General Business programs take one to two years to complete, depending on the school, course load, and whether you study full- or part-time.

• Accelerated programs can be completed in as little as 10 to 12 months, typically with a heavier course load and continuous enrollment.
• Standard full-time programs usually take about 18 months to 2 years.
• Part-time options may extend the timeline to 2.5 to 3 years for working professionals who take fewer courses per term.

Some schools also offer flexible or self-paced formats, letting students adjust their schedules to fit personal and professional commitments.

How does an online MBA in General Business degree compare to an on-campus program?

An online MBA in General Business offers the same core curriculum, learning outcomes, and accreditation standards as its on-campus counterpart, but differs in delivery, flexibility, and networking style. Both formats cover essential business topics, like leadership, finance, marketing, operations, and strategy, and are taught by the same faculty at many universities.

Similarly, students pursuing an online human services bachelors degree can expect rigorous coursework and accredited programs that provide the same knowledge and skills as traditional on-campus degrees, with the added flexibility of online learning.

The key advantages of the online format include the ability to study from anywhere, maintain full-time employment, and often complete coursework asynchronously. This flexibility can shorten completion time through accelerated options or extend it for part-time learners. 

The convenience and flexibility of an online MBA have contributed to its growing popularity. This is evident in the growth in enrollment in online MBAs in AACSB-accredited institutions in the past six years: 

• 2018-2019 - 14%
• 2019-2020 - 14% 
• 2020-2021 - 25%
• 2021-2022 - 25%
• 2022-2023 - 25%
• 2023-2024 - 28% 

However, on-campus programs may provide richer in-person networking, more immediate access to campus resources, and immersive experiences like case competitions or local internships. This could be why fully face-to-face MBAs are still the top choice for many students. 

Ultimately, the choice comes down to learning style, career stage, and scheduling needs. Both formats can lead to the same professional opportunities and salary potential if the program is reputable and accredited.

The chart below illustrates enrollment trends in AACSB MBA programs by delivery type: 

What is the average cost of an online MBA in General Business program?

The average cost of an online MBA in General Business can vary widely, but it is generally more affordable than a traditional on-campus program. Here are some cost estimates my team and I found while doing research for this guide. 

• Education Data Initiative reports that the average cost of a Master of Business Administration program in the U.S is $60,410. 
• Some premium programs, especially from elite institutions, can cost more than $100,000.
• Similarly, professionals considering cloud engineering certification training online can expect a range of tuition costs depending on the program length, institution, and level of certification, though many online options remain cost-effective compared with in-person training.
• Factors that influence the total cost include whether the school is public or private, its prestige, and the state of residency. 

It is important to remember that this figure is often for tuition alone and does not always include additional costs like technology fees, books, and materials.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online MBA in General Business program?

Students enrolling in an online MBA in General Business program have access to various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and other support specifically designed for online MBA candidates. Similar to DBA management online programs, these options can help reduce the financial burden while pursuing advanced business education.

Borrowing money is one of the most common sources for funding an MBA, but I strongly suggest exploring these other options before considering loans:

• Merit-Based Scholarships. Many universities, including those with online MBA in general business programs, offer scholarships based on academic achievement, leadership skills, or GMAT/GRE scores. Some universities automatically consider you for these awards when you apply, while others may require a separate application.
• Need-Based Grants. Grants are typically awarded based on financial need, although some may have merit components. These can come from federal and state governments, as well as individual schools and private organizations.
• Diversity Scholarships. Many organizations and institutions offer scholarships to promote diversity in business. These can be based on factors like gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic background. Some great examples are the ROMBA LGBTQ+ Fellowship and Forté Foundation MBA Fellowship.
• Professional and Special Interest Scholarships. Look for scholarships from professional organizations related to your current or desired career field. Other scholarships may be available based on a specific interest, such as an entrepreneurial background or a commitment to social impact.
• Employer Tuition Assistance. Many companies offer partial or full tuition reimbursement or assistance programs for employees pursuing an MBA. Check with your company's HR department to see what benefits are available.
• Military Benefits. If you have served in the armed forces, you may be eligible for benefits through programs like the GI Bill® that can cover tuition, housing, and other educational expenses. 

Data from GMAC reveals that 28% of graduate management education (GME) candidates in the U.S. plan to use grants, fellowships, and scholarships to finance their GME program. 

Furthermore, GMAC also reports that almost 50% of incoming GME students to U.S. programs typically receive merit-based scholarships or fellowships. 

Here is additional data to give you a better idea of how common it is for MBA and other graduate management students in the U.S. to receive financial assistance: 

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online MBA in General Business program?

The prerequisites for enrolling in an online MBA in General Business program typically include the following:

• A bachelor's degree. Usually, MBA schools look for a business-related degree from a regionally accredited university, such as a fast-track bachelor's in supply chain management online. Some programs accept degrees from non-business fields but may require prerequisite leveling courses in subjects like accounting, economics, or statistics.
• Grade Point Average (GPA). Many programs require a minimum GPA of around 2.5 to 3.0 cumulative or in the last 60 credit hours.
• Professional work experience. Many programs prefer or require at least 2 to 4 years of relevant professional experience, especially if the applicant’s GPA is below a certain threshold. Work experience can sometimes lead to GMAT waivers.
• Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)/Graduate Record Examinations (GRE). This is often waived if GPA or work experience criteria are met. Some online MBA programs do not require the GMAT or GRE at all, simplifying admission. 
• Application materials. These may include official transcripts, a completed application, a résumé or CV outlining work experience, letters of recommendation, and sometimes an essay or personal statement.
• English proficiency. For international students, proof of English language proficiency via the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or similar tests is commonly required.
• Conditional admission. Students who do not meet all criteria may be admitted conditionally, but are usually required to complete foundational courses first.

Specific prerequisites and admissions policies vary by institution, but these are the common elements across many reputable online MBA programs in general business.

I recommend carefully inspecting the enrollment prerequisites for each online MBA program you are interested in and allotting enough time to prepare for the requirements. 

You want to ensure your application stands out and you submit everything on time to increase your chances of gaining admission, especially when year-to-year trends from GMAC indicate that the number of applications to online MBA programs in the U.S has steadily been increasing since 2022: 

• 2022 - 19%
• 2023 - 58%
• 2024 - 64% 

What courses are typically in an online MBA in General Business program?

Typical courses in an online MBA in General Business program cover core business disciplines designed to develop comprehensive managerial and leadership skills. The curriculum usually includes:

• Managerial Accounting and Finance. Financial and economic analysis for decision-making.
• Marketing and Strategy. Competitive analysis and strategic decision-making.
• Organizational Behavior. Understanding leadership, human behavior in organizations, and management principles.
• Management Information Systems. Focus on technology applications in business.
• Research Methods and Ethics. Courses on research application and ethical decision-making.
• Economics for Managers. Micro- and macroeconomic principles applied to business.
• Electives. To customize learning in areas like entrepreneurship, international business, supply chain, finance, or digital transformation. Students exploring pathways like medical assistant to RN online programs similarly benefit from elective options to tailor their learning to career goals.
• Capstone or Integrative Experience. Often strategic management capstone, business simulation, or consulting project where students apply what they’ve learned to real-world business challenges.

You also want to look for online MBA programs that include courses that focuses on technology skills currently sought after by employers. 

The 2024 Corporate Recruiters Survey from GMAC reveals that the top technology skills employers look for in current completers of graduate management programs are cloud-based technology (49%), statistical analysis skills (38%), and data visualization (37%). 

What types of specializations are available in online MBA in General Business programs?

Although a general business MBA provides a broad overview of all business functions, many online programs allow students to choose a specialization or concentration. 

Some of the most common concentrations you will find include:

• Finance. A finance specialization focuses on financial markets, investment management, risk analysis, and corporate finance. This is ideal for those seeking careers as financial managers, analysts, or Chief Financial Officers (CFOs).
• Business Analytics. This specialization teaches students how to use data to make strategic business decisions. It covers statistical methods, data modeling, and data visualization, preparing graduates for roles as business analysts or data-driven managers. Get to know more in this business analytics degree salary and career guide.
• Marketing. A marketing concentration covers topics like consumer behavior, digital marketing, brand management, and market research. This track is a great fit for aspiring marketing managers, brand strategists, and advertising professionals.
• Human Resources. An HR specialization focuses on talent management, organizational behavior, employee relations, and labor laws. This is perfect for those who want to advance into leadership roles in human resources. Check out our helpful guide to get answers to whether is MBA in HR a good option for this specialization.
• Project Management. This concentration provides the skills needed to oversee projects from start to finish, including budgeting, scheduling, and team management. It is a highly versatile specialization applicable across many industries.
• International Business. This specialization is designed for a globalized world, covering topics such as global logistics, international trade regulations, and managing multicultural teams.
• Entrepreneurship. For students with an interest in starting their own companies or working in venture capital, this specialization covers innovation, business development, and small business management.
• Leadership and Organizational Development. This track equips students with skills to lead teams, manage change, and foster organizational growth through strategic planning and effective leadership practices. It is a natural progression for graduates of traditional or the shortest online bachelor's programs in organizational leadership.

Most online MBA in General Business programs allow students to customize their degree by selecting a certain number of elective courses within one of these specialized tracks, giving a versatile general business foundation with focused expertise.

How to choose the best online MBA in General Business program?

Choosing the best online MBA in General Business program involves looking beyond rankings and focusing on factors that align with your career goals, learning preferences, and budget. Here are the main points to consider:

• Accreditation. Ensure the school is accredited by a recognized body such as AACSB, Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), or International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE). This guarantees academic quality and employer recognition.
• Faculty. Investigate the faculty's credentials. The best programs have instructors with extensive real-world experience, ensuring the coursework is relevant and practical. 
• Networking Opportunities. The best online programs make a concerted effort to create networking opportunities through virtual events, collaborative group projects, and access to a robust alumni network.
• Career Services. Look for schools that offer dedicated career services for online students, including career coaching, resume reviews, and interview preparation.
• Reputation and Outcomes. Review graduation rates, student satisfaction, and average salaries of graduates to assess program impact.
• Program Structure and Flexibility. Check whether the program is fully online, offers asynchronous classes for convenience, and can be completed part-time or full-time based on your schedule.

AACSB also discovered that a well-rounded curriculum is what students want from business programs. Look for an online MBA in general business curriculum that is well-designed and structured so it is easier for students to take the next steps for their career progression.

What career paths are available for graduates of online MBA in General Business programs?

Graduates of an online MBA in General Business have a wide range of career opportunities because the degree develops versatile skills in leadership, strategy, finance, marketing, and operations. Here are some common career paths:

• Management Consultant. Many graduates work as consultants, helping businesses solve complex problems, improve efficiency, and develop strategic plans. This role is highly sought-after and can lead to positions at prestigious firms or even self-employment.
• Financial Manager. With a solid understanding of finance and accounting, graduates can pursue careers in financial management, overseeing a company's financial health, creating budgets, and making investment decisions.
• Marketing Manager. For those with an interest in marketing, the degree provides the strategic knowledge to lead marketing teams, develop campaigns, and manage brand identity.
• Operations Manager. This path is for individuals who excel at process improvement and efficiency. Operations managers are responsible for ensuring a company's daily operations run smoothly, managing everything from logistics to production.
• Human Resources Manager. An MBA can lead to a leadership role in human resources, where you would be responsible for talent management, employee relations, and shaping a positive workplace culture.
• Project Manager. A highly transferable career path, project managers oversee the planning, execution, and completion of projects across various departments and industries. 

The skills gained from an online MBA also position graduates for senior leadership and executive positions that offer DBA salary ranges. Many MBA holders eventually become C-suite executives, such as a Chief Financial Officer, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), or Chief Operating Officer (COO).

Additionally, the entrepreneurial skills learned in the program, including strategic planning and financial management, are invaluable for those who wish to start their own business. 

Finally, graduates of online MBA in general business programs have an advantage in gaining the confidence of employers who see the value in the education and training one obtains from graduate management degrees. 

A GMAC 2024 survey of corporate recruiters shows that 40% of employers are confident that graduate management education programs prepare students to be successful in their organizations. Moreover, 66% believe business school graduates tend to have a fast track to upper-level positions in companies. 

As long as MBA graduates keep up with the current and future in-demand business school skills, they can enjoy long, vibrant, and rewarding careers. 

What is the job market for graduates of online MBA in General Business degrees?

The job market for graduates of online MBA in General Business programs is strong and consistently in demand. Employers across a wide range of industries recognize the value of the versatile skill set that a generalist MBA provides.

Strong Demand and Hiring Trends

The 2024 GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey reveals robust demand. Across the globe, 36% of employers plan to increase hiring of MBA graduates, with especially strong interest from these sectors: 

• Manufacturing - 44%
• Finance/accounting - 34%
• Products/services - 31%
• Technology - 29%
• Consulting - 29%

Challenges in Today’s Market

Despite overall optimism, there have also been reports of cooling demand, particularly from tech giants and consulting firms. Some reasons for this hiring slowdown in such organizations are economic shifts, the prioritization of tech fluency, and AI-driven disruptions. 

According to the results of the 2024 GMAC Corporate Survey, 26% of employers across the globe say that AI is currently important for GME graduates, including those with MBA degrees. The technology sector also ranks it as the second most important future skill for business school graduates. 

Preparing for the Job Market

Earning an online MBA in General Business gives you an education credential that is accepted and sought after across multiple industries. However, success increasingly depends on your ability to pair strong business fundamentals with tech fluency, strategic adaptability, and active networking. 

This begins with choosing the right academic program, whether it is an accelerated online bachelor's degree in economics for your undergraduate training or the best online MBA in General Business degree. 

Finally, proactively using career services, honing AI and digital skills, and aligning with growth sectors will be key differentiators in today’s job landscape.

To give you a head start, here are the top skills valued by global employers, based on data from the 2024 GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey: 

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online MBA in General Business Degree

Other Things You Need to Know About Online MBA in General Business Degrees

What is the most useful MBA degree?

The most useful MBA degree is often the General MBA, as it offers broad business knowledge, leadership skills, and versatility, preparing graduates for diverse industries, high-level management roles, and entrepreneurial ventures with strong earning and advancement potential.

Do you need to be good at Math to get an MBA?

You do not need to be a math expert to get an MBA, but basic quantitative skills are important. Programs teach necessary business math, focusing on applying concepts in finance, statistics, and analytics to real-world decision-making.

Can you pause and resume your online MBA studies?

Yes, many online MBA programs allow students to pause and resume studies through flexible scheduling or leave-of-absence policies, accommodating personal and professional commitments while maintaining progress toward degree completion without starting over.

What is the return on investment for an online MBA in General Business? 

An online MBA in General Business often delivers a strong return on investment through higher earning potential, career advancement, and expanded leadership opportunities, with graduates frequently earning salaries that significantly exceed their pre-MBA income.