Completing an MBA program is a dream for many. Unfortunately, the cost of the programs has been a serious concern for prospective students. For students on a budget, several universities offer affordable MBA programs that maintain a commitment to educational excellence. Online programs, part-time options, and programs at less prestigious schools provide avenues for quality education without the hefty price tag.
Why Online MBA programs?
Choosing online programs for your MBA has distinct advantages, particularly if you are mindful of budget constraints. The flexibility of online learning accommodates part-time students like yourself, providing a cost-effective opportunity to earn an MBA.
Online programs not only offer financial savings but also cater to the needs of working professionals or individuals with other commitments. With the convenience of accessing coursework remotely, you can balance your studies with your existing responsibilities, making it a practical and affordable avenue for pursuing higher education.
According to data reported to U.S. News in an annual survey, the average cost among the 10 most affordable online MBA options for out-of-state students is $302.80 per credit hour.
10 Low Cost Online Mba In Usa
Here are the top 10 ranked public and private online MBA programs that charged the least per credit for part-time organized by overall cost.
1. Missouri State University
Located in Missouri, this university offers a part-time, out-of-state tuition of $333 per credit. Graduation requires 34 credits, resulting in a total cost of $11,322. Established in 1905, its initial focus was on training public school teachers in southwest Missouri. Since then, it has grown to enroll approximately 25,000 students, providing both undergraduate and graduate programs. The university’s mission is to cultivate “global citizen scholars committed to public affairs.”
2. University of Central Oklahoma
Founded on Christmas Eve in 1890, the University of Central Oklahoma charges a part-time, out-of-state tuition of $352 per credit. Graduation necessitates 32 credits, with a total cost of $11,264. As one of the oldest universities in Oklahoma, it had an undergraduate enrollment of nearly 12,000 students in fall 2021. The university offers an extensive array of academic programs, with almost 120 undergraduate and 81 graduate programs.
3. Lamar University (TX)
Lamar University, originally established as a junior college in 1923, now offers both undergraduate and graduate programs. Situated in Texas, the part-time, out-of-state tuition per credit is $331, requiring 30 credits for graduation, resulting in a total cost of $9,930. Named after Mirabeau B. Lamar, a former president of the Republic of Texas, the university became a member of the Texas State University System in 1995.
4. University of Central Arkansas
Initially created to train teachers, the University of Central Arkansas has evolved to offer a range of degrees, including doctorates. The part-time, out-of-state tuition per credit is $325, with 30 credits needed for graduation, totaling $9,750. Established in 1908, the university now enrolls over 9,900 students and provides more than 160 academic programs.
5. Northeastern State University (OK)
Founded in 1846 as the Cherokee National Female Seminary, Northeastern State University is considered Oklahoma’s oldest institution of higher learning. The part-time, out-of-state tuition per credit is $268, requiring 36 credits for graduation, resulting in a total cost of $9,648. The university has undergone various name changes and has operated under its current name since 1978.
6. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi
Established in 1947, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi had 312 students initially and now boasts an undergraduate enrollment of over 8,000 students. The Gulf Coast school’s part-time, out-of-state tuition per credit is $302, with 30 credits needed for graduation, totaling $9,060. Situated on an island, the university is often referred to as “the Island University.”
7. Eastern University (PA)
Founded in 1925 as the Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Eastern University evolved over the years. The part-time, out-of-state tuition per credit is $300, requiring 30 credits for graduation, resulting in a total cost of $9,000. With approximately 5,700 students, the university now offers nearly 140 academic programs.
8. Fitchburg State University (MA)
Established in 1894 as the State Normal School, Fitchburg State University started as a two-year program for training female teachers. The part-time, out-of-state tuition per credit is $284, with 30 credits needed for graduation, totaling $8,520. The university achieved university status in 2010, offering a diverse range of academic programs.
9. University of Texas Permian Basin
Established in 1969, the University of Texas Permian Basin was initially planned as an upper-level university for college juniors and seniors, as well as graduate students. The part-time, out-of-state tuition per credit is $275, requiring 30 credits for graduation, resulting in a total cost of $8,250. The university faced a property dispute, delaying its construction, but finally opened its doors in 1973.
10. Louisiana Tech University
Established in 1894 as an industrially oriented academic institution, Louisiana Tech University now offers a variety of degrees. The part-time, out-of-state tuition per credit is $258, with 30 credits needed for graduation, totaling $7,740. The university emphasizes core values such as leadership and enthusiasm, expecting students and faculty to abide by the “Tenets of Tech.”
Conclusion
Your dream of pursuing an affordable online MBA in the USA is within your reach. The mentioned universities offer part-time programs with reasonable out-of-state tuition rates, presenting you with diverse options to achieve your dream of obtaining an MBA without breaking the bank. Consider the unique attributes and mission of each institution to find the best fit for your academic and financial goals.