Online MBA Programs in Ohio
Updated October 5, 2023
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According to data from the Chronicle of Higher Education, only about 7.6% of Ohio's population holds master's degrees, so enrolling in an online MBA program in Ohio puts you into an elite class and provides a competitive edge over bachelor's degree-holders.
The 2017 Distance Education State Almanac indicates that over 16,600 students were pursuing an online graduate degree in Ohio in 2015. Distance learning continues to grow nationwide as online programs garner increasing respect. This growth allows students with work, family, or location constraints to seek higher education and advance their careers during their free hours.
The following page provides guidance in choosing the best online MBA in Ohio to support your career goals. Below you will find descriptions of online Ohio MBA programs, accreditation standards, and concentration options. You will also learn about how your Ohio online MBA choices can help give you access to lucrative, in-demand careers in the state's growing industries.
Careers and Salaries for MBA Graduates in Ohio
Each industry listed in the previous section has high-growth industry groups. Ohio Job Outlook data projects these fields to increase by 31-45% through 2022. Individual and family services stems from the healthcare and social assistance sector, and it is the fastest growing group. Similarly, home healthcare services and outpatient care are also projected to grow. Other rapidly expanding industry groups include the wholesale trade sector, brokers and agents, and electronic markets.
The most in-demand job settings include hospitals, employment services, restaurants, and home healthcare. Furthermore, MBA graduates in Ohio may want to explore jobs within larger cities in the state, including Cleveland, Akron, Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, and Youngstown.
The economic landscape in Ohio is positive, with a potential increase in overall employment through 2026. Earning an online MBA allows students to take advantage of this growth, as many programs offer flexible schedules with no in-person attendance, which means that students can continue accumulating professional experience while they earn their degree.
| Company | Location | Main Industry | Number of Employees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio State University | Columbus | Education | 23,000 |
| Procter & Gamble Co. | Cincinnati | Soap and Other Detergent Manufacturing | 15,000 |
| University -- Cincinnati Geology | Cincinnati | Education | 15,000 |
Source: Career One Stop
Ohio State University and the Cleveland Clinic are two of the largest employers in the state, contributing to initiatives that extend beyond traditional education and healthcare roles. Therefore, earning an online MBA in Ohio provides foundational business knowledge and pertinent leadership skills that provide a positive return on a student's investment. However, students who select on-target concentration areas may enjoy a competitive advantage in the job market.
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Careers for MBA Grads in Ohio
Program Project Manager
Employed in a diverse array of industries including Ohio's growing industries of professional and technical services, finance and insurance, and company management, program project managers sometimes work on a temporary contract basis for multiple employers. As they establish goals, lead teams, and manage budgeting, project managers often benefit from the leadership, communications, and finance skills they gleaned from their MBA.
Professionals working in technology or finance often choose a corresponding MBA concentration which provides an additional industry-specific knowledge base. Although the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not provide an occupational outlook page for this position because the data varies too widely based on industry, PayScale reports that these professionals earn a median salary of $83,487 annually.
Hospital Administrator
Charged with overseeing hospital employees, finances, and general operations, hospital administrators often utilize MBA program knowledge and skills such as leadership, budget management, and operations management.
In order to skillfully perform specialized duties such as goal setting, financial planning, and representing the hospital, these administrators require considerable healthcare industry knowledge and experience. Perhaps partly due to Ohio's booming and growing healthcare industry, Ohio medical and health services management positions offer a generous mean salary of $101,390 and a projected job growth of 16% through 2026.
Professional Services Manager
Although most common to software and other technology services providers, professional services managers can work in a variety of service areas and industries. Professional service managers collaborate with sales, technical, and research and development teams to meet project deadlines and budgets.
Professional services managers typically require a bachelor's degree relevant to their industry, so holding an Ohio MBA with a related concentration adds a competitive advantage. The BLS provides industry-specific data on professional services managers, and PayScale national data for professional services managers indicate a median salary of $90,357. The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODFJS) projects a growth of 9,551 professional service manager positions in this state through 2026.
Technical Service Department Manager
Technical service department managers often spend their days solving technical problems, including communicating with customers and supervising staff. Meanwhile, these managers also design operating procedures, ensure legal compliance, monitor budgeting, and improve overall productivity and use of technical resources.
An MBA with a technology concentration provides competitive academic preparation for this career, although employers also require relevant management experience. Although the BLS does not provide state-specific salary data for this position, PayScale indicates a national median salary of $73,625 for technical service department managers. Given the projected growth of the technical services industry in Ohio, qualified online MBA graduates may anticipate lucrative opportunities.
Social Services Manager
Often employed by government or nonprofit organizations, social services managers run community outreach and other social service programs. In addition to social services staff hiring, training, and supervision, duties include compliance monitoring, budgeting, and communication with the public.
Social services managers hold at least a bachelor's degree and stand to benefit from an MBA with a concentration in nonprofit management or organizational leadership. BLS research reports that social services and community managers in Ohio earned a mean annual salary of $73,210 as of May 2018. The ODFJS identifies the social assistance sector as one of Ohio's largest growth areas.
MBA Concentrations for Ohio Students
Although Ohio offers many general online MBA programs, a program offering a concentration relevant to your desired position or industry can significantly improve your hiring profile. Students eager to work in Ohio's booming healthcare industry often choose an MBA in healthcare management. Meanwhile, students interested in higher education or other major Ohio employment sectors may opt for an MBA concentrated on a cross-industry skillset, such as an MBA in accounting, finance, marketing, or leadership.
As you research online MBA programs in Ohio, be sure to learn all you can about the MBA specialization and curricular options available to you.
Online MBA Programs in Surrounding States
Ohio's Online MBA Programs
The following list of online MBA programs provides a sampling of the types of schools and programs available to aspiring Ohio MBA students. This list helps you make an informed decision by comparing multiple programs. You can then select a program based on your own career goals and on program quality measures such as accreditation.
As a voluntary process that vouches for an institution's or program's educational quality, accreditation allows students to rest assured that they are receiving a good education. Employers and schools often consider only applicants from regionally accredited schools, since regional accreditors boast more rigorous standards. A good online MBA program in Ohio typically also bears programmatic accreditation from the business education specialists listed this MBA accreditation guide.
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Ashland UniversityLocation
Ashland, OH
Tuition$29500
Ashland University offers one of the best accelerated online MBA programs in Ohio, which students can complete in one year. The curriculum comprises 30 credit hours of coursework, which students take in six sessions. Part-time learners typically earn the MBA in 16 months. MBA students can specialize in project management or sports management.
Ashland also offers a traditionally paced online MBA, which most students complete in 2-3 years. Available specializations include accounting, entrepreneurship, and global management. Learners can also build their own degree, tailoring the program to their academic and professional goals.
Both MBA programs include coursework on business fundamentals, organizational development, and strategic planning. The programs hold accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Ashland offers GMAT waivers to applicants with requisite undergraduate coursework and professional experience.
Concentrations
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Baldwin Wallace UniversityLocation
Berea, OH
Tuition$36024
Baldwin Wallace University offers a hybrid MBA program that includes 12 on-campus sessions on Sunday. Learners can complete all other requirements online, and most students graduate in two years.
Designed for full-time professionals, BW's program includes in-person interactions with expert faculty and provides fundamental coursework in a convenient online format. The curriculum covers topics such as business management, project planning, operational analysis, and finance. Students learn to think critically and make informed decisions using a systems-based approach. Learners progress through coursework with a cohort of peers and develop skills necessary for executive positions in corporate settings. The 38-credit program includes applied projects, which draw on the diverse backgrounds of cohorts.
Applicants to Baldwin Wallace's hybrid MBA program must have completed prerequisite coursework and must demonstrate competencies in quantitative methods and financial accounting. Students with an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 do not need to submit GMAT scores.
Concentrations
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Cedarville UniversityLocation
Cedarville, OH
Tuition$21456
Cedarville University, a Christian school, offers an online MBA program that covers topics including financial management, organizational design and behavior, and strategic marketing planning. Five available concentrations include cybersecurity, business analytics, and healthcare administration. Core classes and field-specific coursework provide knowledge and skills applicable to managerial, administrative, and corporate leadership positions.
Program requirements include experiential learning activities, game simulations, and student-selected projects. The cohort model allows students to develop a network of like-minded professionals.
Online MBA students can simultaneously pursue an on-campus doctor of pharmacy degree. The MBA program holds accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
Concentrations
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Cleveland State UniversityLocation
Cleveland, OH
Tuition$35000
Cleveland State University offers one of the most convenient online MBA programs in Ohio. The accelerated online MBA program takes one year to complete and is ideal for professionals in various fields. Students complete 34 credits of coursework in fundamental topics, including international business, team dynamics, and market strategy. They also develop the critical-thinking and analytical skills needed to guide businesses and corporations.
Cleveland State students earning their MBA online complete the program in a cohort. Synchronous classes utilize quizzes, assignments, and project development. Students who fall behind can work with faculty to complete the degree as soon as possible.
Applicants must have completed prerequisite coursework in areas such as business writing, statistics, economics, and finance. The university may waive prerequisite and standardized test score requirements based on the applicant's educational background. Cleveland State charges a flat tuition rate, which includes all textbooks and course readings. The online MBA program holds accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
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Franciscan University of SteubenvilleLocation
Steubenville, OH
Tuition$18500
A Catholic institution, Franciscan University of Steubenville offers an online MBA program that includes coursework in management, economics, human resources, and global finance. Learners also take a class on the Catholic vision for companies and organizations.
Through the MBA program, students with a bachelor's degree in an area other than business can qualify for new professional roles. Mid-level managers, administrative assistants, recent business undergraduates, and entrepreneurs can benefit from Franciscan's comprehensive, 37-credit curriculum. Graduates often become corporate consultants, supply chain managers, and information technology professionals. Learners can complete electives in areas such as healthcare management, economic law, and market research to prepare for specific careers.
MBA students pay a flat, per-credit tuition rate. Applicants must submit three letters of recommendation, transcripts, and a formal application.
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Franklin UniversityLocation
Columbus, OH
Tuition$23724
Franklin University's online MBA program trains students in business communication techniques, strategic planning methods, and functional problem-solving. The multidisciplinary curriculum covers theoretical and practical perspectives applicable to business scenarios and corporate settings. Through discussions and collaborative projects, students learn from peers and build professional networks. Students can complete the program in as few as 14 months.
Applicants do not need to submit GRE or GMAT scores, but do need an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution and a minimum 2.7 GPA. Admissions also considers each applicant's experience and personal qualities. Franklin's MBA program holds accreditation from the International Accreditation Council for Business Education.
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Malone UniversityLocation
Canton, OH
Tuition$23580
Malone University in Canton, Ohio, offers an online MBA program that students can complete in as few as 20 months. Malone also offers an accelerated MBA program, during which students take one online and one on-campus course per term. Students complete the accelerated degree in three semesters.
All MBA students take 36 credits in areas including leadership and management, data analysis and decision-making, managerial finance, and innovation for business. Students develop research skills and use technological tools to assess business issues and problems. Learners also study the role of ethics, faith, and Christian morality in business.
Applicants submit letters of recommendation, a formal application, and transcript information. Applicants who do not meet the GPA requirement may receive conditional admission. Malone's business school holds accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
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Mount Vernon Nazarene UniversityLocation
Mount Vernon, OH
Tuition$20952
Mount Vernon Nazarene University offers several online MBA programs. Students can complete the fast-track MBA in 11 or 15 months, depending on when they complete concentration coursework. Available concentrations for the fast-track program include finance, human resources management, ministry leadership, and organizational management.
MVNU's traditional online MBA, which most students complete in 22 months, includes the same courses and concentrations as the fast-track program, plus a concentration in human and social services leadership. MVNU also offers an MBA in healthcare administration and a joint degree combining the MBA and the master of ministry.
Each of the university's MBA programs requires 27 credits of core classes in areas like corporate finance, ethical leadership, global business, and strategic management. Students complete 36 credits, including specialization coursework. Several of the university's MBA programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
Concentrations
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Ohio Christian UniversityLocation
Circleville, OH
Tuition$18900
Located in Circleville, Ohio Christian University provides some of the best online MBA degrees in Ohio. Students completing the online MBA program can specialize in accounting, digital marketing, finance, healthcare management, human resources, or organizational leadership. Learners can also complete a dual-degree program to earn an MBA and a master of arts in ministry.
OCU's programs prepare business professionals for managerial careers and leadership positions while helping learners develop decision-making and critical-thinking skills. Coursework covers topics including marketing and advertising, project management, ethics, and research methods.
MBA students pursuing a specialization complete 24 credits of core classes and 12 credits of specialization coursework. Both general and specialization students complete a capstone course. Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree and submit transcripts. All MBA students pay the same per-credit tuition rate, regardless of residency.
Concentrations
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Ohio Dominican UniversityLocation
Columbus, OH
Tuition$21600
Ohio Dominican University's online MBA program includes 36 semester hours of coursework and trains students for roles as business leaders. Students develop analytical and decision-making skills and learn to apply them in business scenarios. Students learn to use business models and strategic planning tools to assess financial and accounting information, systematize economic data, and implement managerial change.
In addition to core coursework and a capstone learning experience, students can complete a six-hour specialization in data analytics, risk management, finance, accounting, leadership, or sports management. Learners who take two courses at a time can complete the degree in as few as 16 months; most students earn their MBA in 22 months.
Applicants must have a regionally accredited bachelor's degree and either a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA or at least a 2.75 GPA in their last 60 hours of undergraduate coursework. Applicants must also have a GMAT score in the top 50th percentile and must have completed either foundational coursework in accounting, statistics, finance, and economics or two years of professional experience.
Concentrations
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Ohio UniversityLocation
Athens, OH
Tuition$35980
Ohio University, based in Athens, offers an online MBA program with eight concentration options, including finance, business analytics, healthcare, and strategic selling and sales leadership. The 35-credit curriculum includes core classes in areas such as data analysis, management of operations, and organizational behavior. All learners complete an applied business course during which they run a mock business firm and apply classroom knowledge to practical scenarios.
MBA students attend one mandatory on-campus workshop and can participate in two optional on-campus workshops for additional professional development. Tuition includes hotel accommodations and the cost of most meals during on-campus events.
Applicants do not need to have completed any prerequisite coursework or submit GMAT scores. The MBA program does not accept transfer credits. Applicants should have 2-5 years of business experience and must submit a resume, a goals statement, transcripts, and three letters of recommendation. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution and a minimum 2.5 GPA.
Concentrations
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The University of FindlayLocation
Findlay, OH
Tuition$19800
The University of Findlay offers an online MBA program that requires 33 semester hours, which students can complete in one year.
The program offers concentrations in general business administration, certified public accountancy, certified management accountancy, and healthcare management. Learners develop business and managerial skills. Students can also pursue a secondary specialization in finance, human resource management, international business, marketing, or operations management. Core classes explore topics such as functional business organizations, leadership techniques, and analytical tools.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in business from an accredited institution and must have completed coursework in accounting, finance, and economics. The University of Findlay also provides a bachelor's in business degree completion program. The university offers rolling admissions, and courses begin every eight weeks.
Concentrations
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Tiffin UniversityLocation
Tiffin, OH
Tuition$25200
Tiffin University offers an online MBA with eight concentration options. Learners can specialize in sports management, international business, finance, data analytics, healthcare administration, human resource management, marketing, or leadership and change.
MBA students take core classes in advanced management and leadership to gain skills applicable to business settings. The program emphasizes business communication and technical skills that graduates can apply to positions in the public and private business sectors. Learners interact with faculty during live sessions, complete projects, and assess case studies.
MBA students pay a flat, per-hour tuition rate. Applicants must submit transcripts and a writing sample. Tiffin's business school holds accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
Concentrations
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University of CincinnatiLocation
Cincinnati, OH
Tuition$33820
The University of Cincinnati online MBA program includes 38 credit hours of coursework that students can complete in one year. Students without undergraduate coursework in business may need to take additional courses.
The MBA program helps students develop core competencies in economics, finance, and accounting, which can help business professionals advance to managerial and executive positions. Learners also study leadership and decision-making while exploring legal and ethical issues related to business. MBA students can choose from seven concentrations, including marketing; health care finance, healthcare operations, and corporate taxation.
Applicants can pursue direct or conditional admission, the latter of which is a common path for applicants with three or more years of professional experience. Active CPAs, applicants with an advanced graduate degree, and those with more than seven years of experience may be eligible for a GMAT waiver. UC's online MBA is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Concentrations
- Healthcare Finance
- Healthcare Administration
- Healthcare Operations
- Healthcare Policy And Regulation
- Marketing
- Corporate Taxation
- Individual Taxation
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University of DaytonLocation
Dayton, OH
Tuition$38700
The University of Dayton, a Catholic institution, provides an online MBA program that combines online coursework with in-person immersions. MBA students can graduate in one year. Dayton also offers accelerated and foundational MBA programs, so students can choose the program that best fits their academic and professional background.
Core classes cover topics including finance, accounting, management, and organizational behavior. Students can specialize through elective coursework in marketing and business analytics. All students take coursework in integrated ethics, which explores faith and business. Learners also complete an integrated strategy course, which serves as a project-based capstone experience.
MBA students complete two immersions, one of which takes place on campus. Immersions provide opportunities to network with like-minded professionals and participate in educational workshops.
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University of Northwestern OhioLocation
Lima, OH
Tuition$19200
UNOH offers one of the most comprehensive online MBA programs in Ohio. The master of business administration requires 48 credits and helps business professionals develop the skills they need to advance their careers. Foundational classes include legal and ethical matters in business, finance for managers, and executive leadership.
Required classes introduce theory and best practices, help students develop analytical skills, and present decision-making scenarios. Students complete a management capstone during their final term.
UNOH does not require applicants to submit GMAT scores; however, applicants with a GMAT score of at least 500 can receive a tuition waiver for the introduction to graduate studies course. All applicants participate in an admissions interview. The online MBA program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
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Walsh UniversityLocation
North Canton, OH
Tuition$24660
Walsh University's online MBA program helps working professionals advance to managerial and administrative positions. Students can specialize in healthcare, management, or marketing, and learners can graduate as quickly as one year.
Learners without work experience or undergraduate coursework in business complete 42 credits, including a pathway course that covers foundational topics. Business majors and learners with sufficient experience complete 38 credits, including core coursework that emphasizes information systems, organizational behavior, and financial accounting. Students also take classes in statistics and quantitative research methods. Through concentration coursework students explore specific subsets of management.
Applicants do not need to submit GMAT scores. Walsh offers six start dates per year. The MBA program at Walsh University is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Concentrations
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Wright State UniversityLocation
Dayton, OH
Tuition$21120
Wright State University offers an online MBA program with 11 available concentrations. WSU offers foundational courses and at least three concentration courses online each semester. The degree requires 33-47 credit hours, depending on the student's educational background and professional experience. The curriculum covers fundamental aspects of business, including international business, competitive strategies, and quantitative business analysis. Students may need to take survey courses in economics, accounting, business analysis, or finance.
After completing core coursework, learners progress to specialized classes.Concentration options include finance, business economics, and healthcare management. Learners can also concentrate in unique areas, such as interdisciplinary business, investments, and new venture creation. Students gain technology training, multicultural knowledge, and decision-making skills to become business innovators and entrepreneurs.
Applicants with an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 do not need to submit GMAT scores. WSU's MBA program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Concentrations
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Xavier UniversityLocation
Cincinnati, OH
Tuition$31161
Xavier University's online MBA program prepares students to advance to middle-management and executive careers. Full-time students can complete the MBA in a year and a half, while part-time learners typically graduate in 2-3 years.
Students complete asynchronous coursework during eight-week sessions. Most classes utilize discussion forums, interactive assignments, lectures, and group projects. Learners gain expertise in the field and undertake experiential-learning opportunities to develop practical skills.
Xavier offers six start dates per year. Applicants must submit a resume, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores. Xavier admissions accepts GRE scores but prefers GMAT scores; the university may waive the standardized test score requirement for applicants with more than five years of professional experience. Xavier's MBA program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
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Youngstown State UniversityLocation
Youngstown, OH
Tuition$34242
Youngstown State University's online MBA program requires 40 semester hours of coursework. Students complete 36 credits in capabilities coursework, which helps learners develop skills in decision-making, business leadership, management, and strategic thinking.
The core curriculum helps students develop analytical skills applicable to managerial and executive roles. Students complete a strategic management project, during which they collaborate and consult with business clients. Students also take at least four semester hours of electives.
Applicants must submit GMAT scores, a resume, a letter of application, and transcripts. Students with sufficient work experience or undergraduate coursework may receive a GMAT waiver. New students with an undergraduate GPA of 3.5 or higher are automatically eligible for a graduate scholarship, which is renewable for up to six semesters. The MBA program holds accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
How to Choose a Quality MBA Program
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