Best Online MBA Programs for 2024 in the Midwest
When it comes to investing in your education—and yourself—Fortune wants to help you make the right choice. We are breaking out the best online MBA programs that are based in the Midwest to help you navigate the school selection process.
Maryville University Master of Business Administration | Online
Earn Your MBA from Maryville University - a faster, more convenient, and affordable way to earn an MBA.
Earn your Master of Business Administration online from Maryville University in as few as 12 months. Prepare to advance into a management-level role. Choose from 12 optional concentrations/built-in certificates.
Learn MoreUC Davis Master of Management
The online Master of Management from UC Davis is a graduate business degree designed for recent college graduates, ambitious young professionals and career-changers aspiring to leadership roles.
The 15-month online Master of Management program provides aspiring leaders with a foundation in the functional areas of business, such as accounting, finance, marketing and strategy. No minimum professional experience is required.
Learn More1. Indiana University–Bloomington (Kelley)
Bloomington, INInternational students applying for the Kelley Direct Online MBA Program at Indiana University–Bloomington need to score at least 100 on the TOEFL test. Standardized test scores are not mandatory, but applicants must submit a recommendation letter. The program is primarily online but offers some in-person experiences and is taught by a team of over 360 full-time faculty members. Graduates of the program report a median base salary of $119,400. The deadline to apply for fall 2024 enrollment is July 1.
Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | 30% |
Avg. # of years of work experience, fall 2023 enrollees | 8.0 |
Avg. undergraduate GPA, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.42 |
Credits required to graduate | 54 |
GMAT requirement | No |
Graduation rate, 2020-23 | 87% |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 90% |
Size of 2022-2023 graduating class | 598 |
Tuition per credit, out-of-state | $1,758 |
Yield, fall 2023 (matriculates/admits) | 64% |
2. University of Iowa (Tippie)
Iowa City, IAThe Iowa MBA program is test optional and also does not require letters of recommendation. However, international students must proof English proficiency via or TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo. On average, there are 36 students in each core course. The deadline to apply for fall admission is August 1.
Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | 79% |
Avg. # of years of work experience, fall 2023 enrollees | 8.4 |
Avg. undergraduate GPA, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.53 |
Credits required to graduate | 45 |
GMAT requirement | No |
Graduation rate, 2020-23 | 58% |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 96% |
Size of 2022-2023 graduating class | 428 |
Tuition per credit, out-of-state | $750 |
Yield, fall 2023 (matriculates/admits) | 73% |
3. University of Cincinnati (Lindner)
Cincinnati, OHThe University of Cincinnati's online MBA program does not require GMAT and GRE scores. Applicants can submit them to build a better picture of their academic ability and aptitude for the admissions committee. The school also requires two letters of recommendation. Alumnis report a median base salary of $93,000 three months post-graduation. The deadline to apply is July 31.
Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | 81% |
Avg. # of years of work experience, fall 2023 enrollees | 9.0 |
Avg. undergraduate GPA, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.44 |
Credits required to graduate | 45 |
GMAT requirement | No |
Graduation rate, 2020-23 | 84% |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 89% |
Size of 2022-2023 graduating class | 191 |
Tuition per credit, out-of-state | $1,015 |
Yield, fall 2023 (matriculates/admits) | 63% |
UNC Kenan-Flagler’s top-ranked online MBA
STEM-designated. Tar Heel ROI. No compromises.
UNC Kenan-Flagler’s top-ranked online MBA is a top choice for experienced professionals with strong undergraduate performance. You can earn your degree at your own pace—in 18 to 36 months—without sacrificing academic quality and rigor. Access lifelong career benefits and join a global community of over 44,000 alumni with an AACSB-accredited online MBA from UNC-Chapel Hill. Online MBA Fellowships Available. GMAT waivers available. Learn more today.
Learn More4. University of Southern Indiana
Evansville, INThe University of Southern Indiana does not require standardized testing or letters of recommendation but contact information of three professional contacts is needed. Core classes have an average of 173 students. Shortly after graduating, students earn median annual salaries of $95,000. The program can be completed in less than one year. The program has rolling admission, but applicants must apply at least 10 days before one of the six start dates.
Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | 96% |
Avg. # of years of work experience, fall 2023 enrollees | 11.0 |
Avg. undergraduate GPA, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.70 |
Credits required to graduate | 42 |
GMAT requirement | Yes |
Graduation rate, 2020-23 | 80% |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 94% |
Size of 2022-2023 graduating class | 589 |
Tuition per credit, out-of-state | $430 |
Yield, fall 2023 (matriculates/admits) | 96% |
5. Dakota Wesleyan University
Mitchell, SDDWU's online MBA program does not require standardized test scores or letters of recommendation. English proficiency exam scores are required. The program boasts an 87% employment rate prior to graduation, and each course is seven weeks long. Graduation requirements include 36 credits. The application deadline is rolling.
Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | 81% |
Avg. # of years of work experience, fall 2023 enrollees | 10.3 |
Avg. undergraduate GPA, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.58 |
Credits required to graduate | 30 |
GMAT requirement | No |
Graduation rate, 2020-23 | 100% |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 100% |
Size of 2022-2023 graduating class | 46 |
Tuition per credit, out-of-state | $425 |
Yield, fall 2023 (matriculates/admits) | 71% |
6. John Carroll University (Boler)
University Heights, OHThe Boler Online MBA Program at John Carroll University is 30 credits long and does not require GMAT/GRE scores, although applicants may still submit them. The school does require one letter of recommendation for all entrants and a minimum TOEFL score of 79 for international applicants. With an average of 22 students per course and a faculty of 70 members, the program blends "Jesuit principles with experiential learning to help students excel in work and in life." The deadline to apply for fall 2024 is August 24.
Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | 93% |
Avg. # of years of work experience, fall 2023 enrollees | 9.0 |
Avg. undergraduate GPA, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.20 |
Credits required to graduate | 30 |
GMAT requirement | No |
Graduation rate, 2020-23 | 73% |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 100% |
Size of 2022-2023 graduating class | 13 |
Tuition per credit, out-of-state | $1,060 |
Yield, fall 2023 (matriculates/admits) | 67% |
7. University of Wisconsin MBA Consortium
Wisconsin, WIApplicants to the University of Wisconsin's online MBA are encouraged to submit a GMAT or GRE if they feel it will strengthen their overall application. Two letters of recommendation are needed to apply, and international students must submit proof of English proficiency. The deadline to apply for fall admission is August 21. Three months post-graduation, students earn a median annual salary of $130,000.
Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | 82% |
Avg. # of years of work experience, fall 2023 enrollees | 9.0 |
Avg. undergraduate GPA, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.34 |
Credits required to graduate | 36 |
GMAT requirement | No |
Graduation rate, 2020-23 | 56% |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 80% |
Size of 2022-2023 graduating class | 88 |
Tuition per credit, out-of-state | $850 |
Yield, fall 2023 (matriculates/admits) | 72% |
8. Lindenwood University
Saint Charles, MOLindenwood University's online MBA program accepts TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo scores for international applicants. The program accepts GMAT or GRE scores, but they are not required for admission. Three letters of recommendation are required if the applicant's undergraduate GPA is below 3.0. Thirty-three credit hours are needed to graduate. Entrants also tend to have an average of eight years of work experience before enrollment.
Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | 28% |
Avg. # of years of work experience, fall 2023 enrollees | 8.0 |
Avg. undergraduate GPA, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.42 |
Credits required to graduate | 33 |
GMAT requirement | No |
Graduation rate, 2020-23 | 48% |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 69% |
Size of 2022-2023 graduating class | 71 |
Tuition per credit, out-of-state | $597 |
Yield, fall 2023 (matriculates/admits) | 90% |
UC Davis Master of Management
The online Master of Management from UC Davis is a graduate business degree designed for recent college graduates, ambitious young professionals and career-changers aspiring to leadership roles.
The 15-month online Master of Management program provides aspiring leaders with a foundation in the functional areas of business, such as accounting, finance, marketing and strategy. No minimum professional experience is required.
Learn More9. Bowling Green State University
Bowling Green, OHThe Bowling Green State University online MBA program is a good fit for "non-traditional students." TOEFL score of 80 is required for non-English native speakers, but standardized tests are optional, and letters of recommendation are not required. Each course has an average of 37 students enrolled, with an average of eight years of work experience. The business school has 73 faculty members, and the average age of a student is 33. The program is flexible, accommodating students who travel or are in the military stationed overseas.
Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | 93% |
Avg. # of years of work experience, fall 2023 enrollees | 8.0 |
Avg. undergraduate GPA, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.30 |
Credits required to graduate | 30 |
GMAT requirement | No |
Graduation rate, 2020-23 | 71% |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 87% |
Size of 2022-2023 graduating class | 201 |
Tuition per credit, out-of-state | $606 |
Yield, fall 2023 (matriculates/admits) | 41% |
10. University of Dayton
Dayton, OHThe University of Dayton's online MBA program does not require standardized testing, and international students can show proof of English proficiency via TOEFL, IELTS, ITEP, PTE, or Duolingo. Two letters of recommendation are required. The average number of students in core classes is 13. Admission is on a rolling cycle.
Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | 96% |
Avg. # of years of work experience, fall 2023 enrollees | 4.8 |
Avg. undergraduate GPA, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.30 |
Credits required to graduate | 30 |
GMAT requirement | No |
Graduation rate, 2020-23 | 76% |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 90% |
Size of 2022-2023 graduating class | 88 |
Tuition per credit, out-of-state | $1,460 |
Yield, fall 2023 (matriculates/admits) | 59% |
11. University of Central Missouri (Harmon)
Warrensburg, MOUniversity of Central Missouri's online MBA program offers a 96% job placement rate for graduates and the option to complete the program in 12 months. The program does not require standardized test scores or letters of recommendation, but it does require English proficiency exam scores for international applicants. The program has rolling admission.
Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | 31% |
Avg. # of years of work experience, fall 2023 enrollees | DNP |
Avg. undergraduate GPA, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.31 |
Credits required to graduate | 33 |
GMAT requirement | No |
Graduation rate, 2020-23 | 71% |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 68% |
Size of 2022-2023 graduating class | 42 |
Tuition per credit, out-of-state | $500 |
Yield, fall 2023 (matriculates/admits) | 38% |
12. Missouri State University
Springfield, MOProof of proficiency in English is required for all Missouri State University online MBA applicants with a non-immigrant status. The school accepts TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, and Duolingo scores. Applicants should submit GMAT/GRE records whether waiver requirements are met. GMAT waivers are granted on an individualized basis per the Director's discretion. The deadline to apply for fall 2024 is August 15.
Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | 92% |
Avg. # of years of work experience, fall 2023 enrollees | 8.5 |
Avg. undergraduate GPA, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.35 |
Credits required to graduate | 34 |
GMAT requirement | Yes |
Graduation rate, 2020-23 | 48% |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 72% |
Size of 2022-2023 graduating class | 107 |
Tuition per credit, out-of-state | $348 |
Yield, fall 2023 (matriculates/admits) | 65% |
13. Kent State University (Crawford)
Kent, OHKent State University's 37-credit, online MBA program requires English proficiency exams for international students. It accepts TOEFL, MELAB, IELTS, PTE, and Duolingo English scores. The program requires two letters of recommendation for applicants, although it does not require GMAT or GRE scores. On average, there are 36 students per core online course. The deadline to apply is June 1.
Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | 86% |
Avg. # of years of work experience, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.7 |
Avg. undergraduate GPA, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.40 |
Credits required to graduate | 37 |
GMAT requirement | No |
Graduation rate, 2020-23 | 58% |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 73% |
Size of 2022-2023 graduating class | 38 |
Tuition per credit, out-of-state | $840 |
Yield, fall 2023 (matriculates/admits) | 55% |
Maryville University Master of Business Administration | Online
Earn Your MBA from Maryville University - a faster, more convenient, and affordable way to earn an MBA.
Earn your Master of Business Administration online from Maryville University in as few as 12 months. Prepare to advance into a management-level role. Choose from 12 optional concentrations/built-in certificates.
Learn More14. Southeast Missouri State University (Harrison)
Cape Girardeau, MOSoutheast Missouri State University's online MBA program offers international students who have previously completed a degree at SEMO the domestic tuition rate. English proficiency can be demonstrated through TOEFL iBT, IELTS, ITEP, PTE Academic, Duolingo, Kaplan International certification, or HOFT institute scores. Standardized test scores are not required if the applicant's undergraduate GPA is 3.0 or higher, and letters of recommendation are not needed. The enrollment committee recommends that fall 2024 applications be submitted by August 1.
Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | 41% |
Avg. # of years of work experience, fall 2023 enrollees | DNP |
Avg. undergraduate GPA, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.01 |
Credits required to graduate | 33 |
GMAT requirement | Yes |
Graduation rate, 2020-23 | 55% |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 68% |
Size of 2022-2023 graduating class | 28 |
Tuition per credit, out-of-state | DNP |
Yield, fall 2023 (matriculates/admits) | 56% |
15. Ohio University
Athens County, OHNon-native English speakers applying for the online MBA program at Ohio University's College of Business must complete English proficiency exams. The program requires two letters of recommendation, and students have reported a median base salary of $82,613 before enrolling and $109,224 after graduation. The average core online class size is 45 students, and the application deadline is August 11.
Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | 84% |
Avg. # of years of work experience, fall 2023 enrollees | 7.0 |
Avg. undergraduate GPA, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.24 |
Credits required to graduate | 35 |
GMAT requirement | No |
Graduation rate, 2020-23 | DNP |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | DNP |
Size of 2022-2023 graduating class | 234 |
Tuition per credit, out-of-state | $1,051 |
Yield, fall 2023 (matriculates/admits) | 72% |
16. University of Michigan--Dearborn
Dearborn, MIThe University of Michigan–Dearborn's online MBA does not generally require standardized testing, but GRE scores may be asked for if more information is needed from an applicant. International students must submit proof of English proficiency via the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo. One letter of recommendation is needed. The deadline to apply for fall admission is August 1.
Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | 76% |
Avg. # of years of work experience, fall 2023 enrollees | 5.0 |
Avg. undergraduate GPA, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.39 |
Credits required to graduate | 36 |
GMAT requirement | No |
Graduation rate, 2020-23 | 50% |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 67% |
Size of 2022-2023 graduating class | 67 |
Tuition per credit, out-of-state | $1,840 |
Yield, fall 2023 (matriculates/admits) | 55% |
17. Valparaiso University
Porter County, INValparaiso University does not require standardized testing to apply for its online MBA but scores may be considered. Two letters of recommendation are also needed, and international students must submit proof of English proficiency. The average class size for core courses is about 16 students, and the school has 16 business school faculty. The program has rolling admission.
Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | 76% |
Avg. # of years of work experience, fall 2023 enrollees | DNP |
Avg. undergraduate GPA, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.34 |
Credits required to graduate | 36 |
GMAT requirement | No |
Graduation rate, 2020-23 | 89% |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 56% |
Size of 2022-2023 graduating class | 21 |
Tuition per credit, out-of-state | $833 |
Yield, fall 2023 (matriculates/admits) | 11% |
18. Wright State University (Soin)
Greene County, OHWright State University's online MBA program does not require standardized testing for most applicants; students with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher do not need to submit test scores. Applicants must list three reference to apply. International students must complete a TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo test and submit their score. For core classes, the average class size is 14 students. The deadline to apply for fall admission is July 1.
Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | 79% |
Avg. # of years of work experience, fall 2023 enrollees | DNP |
Avg. undergraduate GPA, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.41 |
Credits required to graduate | 46.5 |
GMAT requirement | Yes |
Graduation rate, 2020-23 | 43% |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 82% |
Size of 2022-2023 graduating class | 74 |
Tuition per credit, out-of-state | $1,245 |
Yield, fall 2023 (matriculates/admits) | 21% |
19. Andrews University
Berrien Springs, MIAndrews University's online MBA program is looking for a TOEFL internet-based test score of 80, an IELTS of 6.5, or a Duolingo score of 110 from international students. Regarding standardized test score policy, GRE scores are not accepted, but an index score greater than 1000 is typical of a successful candidate. The program requires two letters of recommendation. In total, the business school has ten faculty members. The minimum number of credits required to graduate is 33.
Acceptance rate, fall 2023 | 80% |
Avg. # of years of work experience, fall 2023 enrollees | 2.0 |
Avg. undergraduate GPA, fall 2023 enrollees | 3.00 |
Credits required to graduate | 33 |
GMAT requirement | Yes |
Graduation rate, 2020-23 | 39% |
One-year retention rate, 2022-23 | 50% |
Size of 2022-2023 graduating class | 53 |
Tuition per credit, out-of-state | $1,318 |
Yield, fall 2023 (matriculates/admits) | 80% |