Kansas offers a variety of industries for MBA-holders. With top employers in aircraft engineering, universities, sports centers, and food production, graduates of MBA programs in Kansas can take advantage of diverse, lucrative career paths. Kansas' top-paying careers include opportunities for MBA-holders to become chief executives, sales managers, marketing managers, and financial managers -- all of which earn more than twice the state's median household income of $55,500.
This page can help prospective students search for online MBA programs in Kansas, providing a list of accredited schools. Readers can also learn more about what accreditation means for MBA programs, careers for MBA graduates in Kansas (including job descriptions and occupational data), and information on how to align MBA concentrations with key industries in their desired locations.
Best Online MBA Programs in Kansas
The list below offers a sampling of the best accredited online MBA programs in Kansas. An important consideration for any academic program, accreditation validates that a school or program meets certain academic standards set forth by the accrediting body. Regional accreditation is generally considered the highest level of accreditation, though MBA students may also wish to enroll in schools accredited by programmatic accrediting organizations like the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
To learn more about MBA accreditation, visit this page.
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Baker UniversityLocation
Baldwin City, KS
Tuition$26130
Founded in 1858, Baker University enrolls over 3,000 students annually. Many of these learners earn their degree remotely through asynchronous classes facilitated by Moodle. Among these online offerings is Baker’s online master of business administration. This program teaches students about leadership and collaborative methods, enabling them to pursue work as financial consultants, operations managers, and program directors. Students generally earn their degree in 18-20 months, although individuals with transfer credits can complete this Kansas online MBA in as few as 12 months.
This 33-credit degree plan consists of classes such as legal environment of business, managerial accounting applications, and strategic planning for competitive organizations. Students can choose a generalist track or opt for a concentration in finance, healthcare administration, human resources, or leadership and organizational change. Baker operates distance learning year-round, with classes starting every seven weeks. The school does not specify minimum GPA or standardized test score requirements for applicants. All distance students pay the same tuition, regardless of where they reside.
Concentrations
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Benedictine CollegeLocation
Atchison, KS
Tuition$28050
Based in Atchison, Benedictine College provides an online master of business administration to nontraditional students. Unlike many other online MBA programs in Kansas, Benedictine facilitates classes through live video conferencing. This interactive method enables distance learners to engage in classroom discussions and ask questions in real time. The college accepts applications on a rolling basis. Prospective students must submit GMAT scores unless they possess a minimum GPA of 3.25 or at least a 480 on the GRE.
The curriculum emphasizes innovation and values-based leadership. Degree candidates take 33 credits, including courses in managerial economics, marketing strategy, and business law and ethical decision-making. Participants also undertake a business creation practicum and a capstone experience in either strategic management or global strategies and international ventures. All graduate students at Benedictine can apply for financial aid, and transfer candidates may qualify for special scholarships.
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Emporia State UniversityLocation
Emporia, KS
Tuition$12348
Emporia State University is the seventh largest university in Kansas, enrolling over 5,700 students each year. Many learners at ESU pursue distance education through programs such as the school’s online master of business administration. This accelerated track enables students to earn their degree in 12 months by taking asynchronous, seven-week-long classes powered by Canvas. To apply, candidates must possess a minimum 2.65 GPA. Prospective students also need to submit GMAT scores unless they have at least three years of relevant work experience, a master's degree, or an undergraduate GPA of 3.5 or higher.
Totaling 36 credits, the degree plan includes classes in marketing management, information systems, and business policy. Students may pursue a concentration in accounting, marketing, or information systems. Graduates may go on to work as business analysts, chief information officers, or management consultants. This Kansas online MBA program holds programmatic accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
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Fort Hays State UniversityLocation
Hays, KS
Tuition$12527
Fort Hays State University enrolls more than 4,500 distance learners every year in programs such as the online master of business administration. This 34-credit track consists of core classes in advanced corporate finance, business research, and organizational behavior in a global context. Degree candidates also take advanced coursework that focuses on one of 13 concentrations. Specialization options include digital marketing, healthcare management, international business, and information assurance.
Depending on their concentration, students may complete all coursework remotely through Blackboard. Participants generally earn their master's degree in 18 months, but can take up to three years to graduate. To apply, candidates must submit GMAT or GRE scores. Students who do not hold an undergraduate business degree must take 12 additional credits of foundational courses. FHSU offers institutional scholarships to students interested in earning this Kansas MBA online.
Concentrations
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Friends UniversityLocation
Wichita, KS
Tuition$21111
Located in Wichita, Friends University operates a global master of business administration program for distance learners. This program emphasizes international business acumen in a domestic context. Students develop the cross-cultural communication, negotiation, and leadership skills needed to occupy management positions in U.S. companies. Degree candidates take asynchronous classes through Moodle, and can earn their Kansas online MBA in under two years.
Ranging from 31-37 credits, the curriculum consists of six core classes and four concentration courses. Concentration options include accounting, change management, cybersecurity, finance, healthcare leadership, human resources, and supply chain management and logistics. The program culminates with a business residency abroad. During this capstone experience, students meet with foreign executives and participate in roundtable discussions about the complex interconnectedness of international business practices.
The university reserves some types of financial aid, such as the Gerald E. Litherland scholarship, for distance learners. Students also benefit from personalized academic advising and career services. Additionally, Friends was the first school to establish a campus chapter of the National Association of Women MBAs.
Concentrations
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Grantham UniversityLocation
Lenexa, KS
Tuition$12025
Grantham University enrolls approximately 17,500 students every year and offers 15 remote graduate degrees. The 37-credit online master of business administration program emphasizes financial data aptitude and distributed collaboration techniques. Grantham’s MBA track prepares students for careers with government agencies, large-scale manufacturers, and multinational corporations.
Distance learners take asynchronous classes through Blackboard. The degree plan includes core classes in e-business, quantitative analysis, and strategies for change. Students can follow a general MBA track or specialize in either information management or project management. Regardless of their track, all participants complete an integrative capstone project.
Most MBA students graduate in two years, although Grantham also offers an intensive one-year pathway. To apply to the one-year accelerated Kansas online MBA program, candidates must hold at least three years of relevant work experience or possess an undergraduate business degree earned with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Classes start every month and the university accepts applications on a rolling basis.
Concentrations
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Kansas State UniversityLocation
Manhattan, KS
Tuition$32500
Established in 1863, Kansas State University was the first higher education institution in the state. Today, the university offers 73 graduate degrees, including an online professional master of business administration. Distance learners pursuing this MBA online take asynchronous courses delivered through Canvas.
The 36-credit curriculum consists of courses like economic analysis, marketing research, and managing the triple bottom line. Degree candidates also complete an international business experience and capstone project. New students must attend a two-day regional orientation that includes professional development and team-building components. K-State allows students to transfer up to six credits of undergraduate business classes toward their MBA.
Applicants should hold a minimum 3.0 GPA and 500 GMAT score. As part of their undergraduate education, students must have completed classes in calculus, statistics, and economics. Distance learners pay a fixed tuition rate, regardless of where they live. This online MBA program holds programmatic accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Concentrations
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MidAmerica Nazarene UniversityLocation
Olathe, KS
Tuition$20520
MidAmerica Nazarene University offers 23 distance education programs, including an online master of business administration. Structured as a cohort learning experience, this 36-credit MBA program trains students through collaborative classroom discussions and projects. Degree candidates can earn their master's entirely online through asynchronous classes powered by Moodle. Alternatively, they can pursue hybrid learning by mixing in weekly courses held on campus in Olathe.
Courses go over technology for managers, applied quantitative methods, organizational development, and project management. As an elective, students can pursue a global business immersion experience. This interdisciplinary class combines online learning with an international trip to destinations like China, South Africa, or the United Arab Emirates.
Applicants must possess a regionally accredited bachelor's degree earned with a minimum 3.0 GPA over the last 60 credits. However, MNU does not ask students to submit GRE or GMAT scores. All distance learners pay the same tuition rate. This Kansas online MBA degree holds accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
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Ottawa UniversityLocation
Ottawa, KS
Tuition$22860
A leader in distance education, Ottawa University has offered flexible classes to nontraditional students since 1974. Today, the university provides 15 remote graduate degrees, including an online master of business administration. Degree candidates can complete this program entirely online, taking asynchronous coursework through Blackboard. Participants can also take evening classes at one of the university's campuses in Wisconsin, Kansas, Arkansas, or Indiana.
The 36-credit curriculum includes courses in strategic marketing, management accounting, and professional ethics. Students also pursue classes in one of six concentrations, including options in strategic innovation or population health and healthcare management. Learners round out their graduate training with a business policy capstone seminar, during which they create an in-depth case study discussing pertinent organizational issues.
To apply, candidates need to hold a minimum 3.0 GPA. Application materials include a current resume, personal statement, and three recommendation letters. Ottawa does not require students to submit GMAT or GRE scores. This Kansas online MBA program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
Concentrations
- Finance
- Healthcare Management
- Human Resources
- Leadership
- Marketing
- Population Health Management
- School Business Operations
- Strategic Innovation
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Southwestern CollegeLocation
Winfield, KS
Tuition$19860
Southwestern College hosts 10 distance education programs for graduate students. These offerings include a 30-credit online master of business administration program, which promotes cross-functional leadership skills and organizational character development. Students cultivate skills through hands-on projects and simulation activities. SC operates online learning through Blackboard Learn. Distance learners take asynchronous, six-week courses and can earn their master's in as few as 12 months.
The degree plan includes classes such as global economics, financial management, and marketing strategies. Students may pursue a generalist track or a finance specialization. All degree candidates also complete an MBA graduate project. This capstone requirement tasks students with preparing and presenting a portfolio.
To apply, candidates submit two professional letters of recommendation, a one-page personal statement, and a resume. Unlike several other online MBA programs in Kansas, SC does not ask applicants to submit standardized test scores. The college does not charge out-of-state distance learners higher tuition rates, and military personnel receive substantial tuition discounts.
Concentrations
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Tabor CollegeLocation
Hillsboro, KS
Tuition$23716
Located in Hillsboro, Tabor College provides 12 distance education opportunities, including a master of business administration. This 36-credit Kansas online MBA program trains students to lead domestic and international organizations. Courses cover business ethics, organizational behavior, and operations and service management. Degree candidates round out their degree plan with a capstone seminar. Tabor graduates may go on to work as entrepreneurs, private consultants, and information technology managers.
The college operates eight-week classes through the Canvas online learning platform. By taking one class at a time, students can maintain their current jobs and earn a master's degree in less than two years. Tabor accepts applications year-round, and the MBA program has no minimum GPA or standardized testing requirements. All distance learners can apply for financial assistance, including grants, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement. Students can also transfer in up to two graduate-level classes to meet degree requirements.
Concentrations
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University of KansasLocation
Lawrence, KS
Tuition$35700
Based in Lawrence, the University of Kansas is the largest higher education institution in the state, enrolling over 28,000 students annually. The university provides 23 distance education programs for graduate students, including an online master of business administration. Through a comprehensive, 42-credit degree plan, students apply key business theories to simulations and projects.
Distance learners take eight-week classes through Blackboard, earning their master's in 27 months. Coursework covers fundamental topics such as statistics, business ethics, and operations and supply chain management. Students take additional classes in their concentration, choosing from finance, marketing, or management and leadership. The program does not require a capstone or residency experience.
The program admits students for the fall, spring, and summer terms. Applicants must submit three recommendation letters, GMAT scores, and a resume. Students with a GPA of at least 3.0 receive preference. The University of Kansas's online MBA program holds accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Concentrations
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University of Saint MaryLocation
Leavenworth, KS
Tuition$21528
Founded in 1923, the University of Saint Mary operates an online master of business administration program. Through an accelerated degree plan, students develop leadership, project planning, and risk management skills by addressing realistic business challenges. Online classes span eight weeks. By taking two courses each term, students can earn their master's in one year.
The 36-credit degree plan consists of nine core classes. Degree candidates also pursue coursework in their concentration, choosing from tracks in general management, advertising marketing, finance, human resources, healthcare management, and organizational leadership. This Kansas online MBA program culminates with a capstone project and a comprehensive examination.
Application requirements include a regionally accredited bachelor's degree earned with a minimum 2.5 GPA. However, prospective students do not need to submit GRE or GMAT scores. Distance learners benefit from the support of career services and the school’s MBA resource center. This program holds accreditation from the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education.
Concentrations
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Wichita State UniversityLocation
Wichita, KS
Tuition$16056
Founded in 1895, Wichita State University offers 44 graduate programs, including an oonline master of business in administration. Distance learners take asynchronous classes powered by Blackboard and can earn their master's in 24-30 months. WSU graduates go on to work in a variety of fields, including manufacturing logistics, corporate consultation, and financial analysis.
MBA students take at least 36 credits of required coursework, including classes in management information systems, advanced strategic management, and international business. Participants choose from a general track or a marketing concentration. Those who did not complete prerequisite classes as part of their undergraduate training must take preparatory courses, which may add up to 15 credits to the degree plan. Additionally, students who have completed prior MBA degree work can transfer in up to 12 credits.
WSU offers admission in the spring and fall. Application requirements include GMAT scores, two professional references, and a personal goals essay. This Kansas online MBA program holds programmatic accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Concentrations
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Careers and Salaries for MBA Graduates in Kansas
After completing an online MBA in Kansas, graduates enjoy a variety of career opportunities. The state's top industries include advanced manufacturing, aerospace, alternative energy, animal health, biosciences, food processing, and logistics and distribution. Despite their differences, each of these industries relies on educated business professionals to expand and thrive.
Kansas' current economic forecast highlights a slight recession in 2020 and 2021, but workers can expect a rapid rebound. In 2019 alone, the state's production sector is projected to grow by 1.5%, creating 3,500 more jobs. With an online MBA, Kansas graduates can take advantage of the state's growing industries. Kansas' relatively low cost of living makes it easy for candidates to find fulfilling careers and affordable housing after graduation.
Nearly every business, corporation, and nonprofit organization hires talented MBA-holders, but the following three hire more Kansas workers than any other employers in the state.
Company | Location | Main Industry | Number of Employees |
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Spirit AeroSystems | Wichita | Manufacturing | 15,000 |
Sprint Corp. | Overland Park | Wireless Telecommunications | 12,500 |
Spirit AeroSystems Holdings | Wichita | Aircraft Manufacturers | 11,500 |
Source: Career One Stop
Like most companies, Sprint Corporation and Spirit AeroSystems require skilled professionals to drive sales and secure clients. Fort Riley is a U.S. Army installation, but military bases operate in similar ways to businesses. MBA programs provide candidates with versatile skill sets, qualifying graduates for positions in many different industries and settings.
Careers for MBA Grads in Kansas
Chief Executive Officer
Chief executive officers oversee company operations from the top of the organization. Focused on the big picture, they direct overall company policy and strategy, delegating more hands-on work to other managers. With MBA degrees, candidates can align their career goals to focus on leadership and business strategy. They also gain a solid understanding of the complex workings within large and small companies.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that 3,790 CEOs worked in Kansas as of May 2018, and they earned an annual mean wage of $172,100.
Development Manager
Development managers focus on training the staff of their organizations. They may seek out training materials, create programs for new and veteran staff, and manage training teams, depending on their organization's size. Employers may prefer an MBA, which prepares development managers for the position's required leadership skills.
Kansas employed 220 training and development managers as of May 2018, according to the BLS, and they earned an annual mean wage of $106,680. Projections Central expects a 13% spike in demand in the state from 2016-2026.
Marketing Manager
Collaborating with other departments within their organizations, marketing managers identify potential markets for their companies' products or services, determining needs and helping develop products to meet them. With MBAs, candidates can develop their understanding of the intricacies of market research, consumer behavior, and pricing strategy.
As of May 2018, Kansas employed 1,640 marketing managers, who earned an annual mean salary of $142,740, according to the BLS. Projections Central expects a 13.2% growth rate in the profession from 2016-2026.
Financial Manager
Financial managers study their organizations' financial data and work to optimize profit through streamlined processes and well-placed investments. They supervise budget-relevant employees, ensure that their companies adhere to legal regulations, and report their findings and suggestions to higher-level executives. Employers often prefer candidates with MBAs, which provide a solid foundation of financial practices and budget strategies, plus a thorough understanding of the stock market.
Kansas employed 3,990 financial managers as of May 2018, and they earned an annual mean wage of $129,660, according to the BLS. Projections Central expects a spike in demand for financial managers in Kansas, anticipating a 20.1% growth from 2016-2026.
Human Resources Manager
Human resources managers deal with personnel-related matters for their companies. Depending on their role and organization's size, they may participate in hiring processes, benefits administration, training, scheduling, or conflict resolution. Candidates seeking higher-level careers in human resources, particularly for larger organizations, may complete an online MBA program in human resources to enhance their leadership skills and prepare them to handle budgets and understand labor regulations.
Kansas employed 1,150 human resources managers as of May 2018, according to the BLS. These professionals earned an annual mean wage of $107,810. Projections Central expects demand for human resources managers to grow by 10.6% in Kansas from 2016-2026.
MBA Concentrations for Kansas Students
For MBA students with a location target in mind, it is important to choose a concentration that aligns with the key industries in their prospective state of employment.
In Kansas, key industries include aerospace, alternative energy, and logistics and distribution. As such, students of MBA programs in Kansas might concentrate their degrees in technology, environmental management, or supply chain management.
In addition to considering concentrations that align with key industries, prospective MBA students in Kansas may also explore accelerated MBA programs, which offer a fast-paced and intensive curriculum to help students gain their degrees more quickly.
To learn more about available MBA concentrations and how they relate to key industries, visit our specialization hub.
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