Our list of the top 17 online MBA programs in Virginia offers an exciting selection tailored to diverse professional ambitions. With a focus on technology integration and personalized learning, Virginia's online MBAs are ideal for those looking to advance their careers or transition into new fields.
Key Takeaways:
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute hosts an online MBA where graduates excel with a median salary of $143,666.
- The University of Lynchburg offers a low student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, ensuring personalized attention.
- Liberty University boasts extraordinary online enrollment numbers, with 45,783 participants in its online graduate school.
Key components we consider include the school's primary campus location within Virginia and data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), as detailed in our methodology. This list is ranked by salary outcomes first, followed by popularity among online students.
Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia
| Rank | School | Salary Score | A+ | 1,445 | $27,600 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| George Mason University | A | 3,589 | $39,780 | ||
| William & Mary School of Education | B | 1,039 | $35,966 | ||
| Liberty University | N/A | 45,783 | $13,560 | ||
| Strayer University | N/A | 5,696 | $17,910 | ||
| Regent University Online | N/A | 5,033 | $12,510 | ||
| Old Dominion University | N/A | 2,676 | $13,803 | ||
| Radford University | N/A | 982 | $17,460 | ||
| Longwood University | N/A | 776 | $16,405 | ||
| ECPI University Online | N/A | 518 | $12,960 |
#1
- Salary Score: A+
- Online Enrollment: 1,445 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $27,600
- GMAT Required: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: With a median graduate salary of $143,666, placing it in the top 4% nationwide, Virginia Tech's Online MBA demonstrates exceptional value for aspiring business leaders looking to elevate their careers while maintaining work-life balance. The 24-month curriculum combines asynchronous and synchronous learning, catering to working professionals seeking career advancement. Students benefit from a cohort model, fostering strong professional networks, and can customize their degree with electives in cutting-edge fields like cybersecurity and healthcare leadership.
#2
- Salary Score: A
- Online Enrollment: 3,589 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $39,780
- GMAT Required: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: In at #2 is GMU, with a distinguished online MBA that prepares professionals for success. With a median salary of $134,789, graduates find themselves among the top earners in their field after graduation. The curriculum is designed for working professionals and allows completion in as little as 16 months, and features a unique Global Residency option for immersive international experience. GMU's commitment to quality education is underscored by its AACSB accreditation.
#3
- Salary Score: B
- Online Enrollment: 1,039 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $35,966
- GMAT Required: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: The online MBA at WMSE offers a transformative educational experience designed for aspiring leaders. This 49-credit curriculum includes 12 courses that employ a "wicked problem" approach, fostering innovative thinking and problem-solving skills. Students engage in a weekend residency that enhances networking opportunities and collaboration. The program can be completed in as little as 24 months, and there is no GMAT requirement, streamlining the admissions process. Graduates enjoy a median salary of $95,418.
#4
- Salary Score: N/A
- Online Enrollment: 45,783 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $13,560
- GMAT Required: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: LU as over 45,000 graduate students enrolled exclusively online, making it a popular option for an MBA. It offers a fully online MBA program featuring 8-week courses and multiple start dates. The curriculum provides training in various business disciplines, allowing for specialization in areas such as Healthcare Management and Accounting. We also think the school's commitment to quality education is underscored by its accreditation from the ACBSP.
#5
- Salary Score: N/A
- Online Enrollment: 5,696 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $17,910
- GMAT Required: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: In at #5 is SU offering a robust online MBA in Accounting designed for aspiring professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in financial management. The program consists of 12 master's level courses, each lasting 11 weeks, and is fully accredited by the ACBSP. Students delve into critical topics such as financial reporting, budgeting, and tax management, equipping them with the skills needed in today’s dynamic business environment.
#6
- Salary Score: N/A
- Online Enrollment: 5,033 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $12,510
- GMAT Required: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: With over 5,000 graduate students enrolled online, RU is another popular choice that offers a dynamic online MBA that caters to the needs of modern professionals. Students can choose from various specializations such as Healthcare Management and Cybersecurity. The curriculum emphasizes ethical decision-making through a Christian worldview, preparing graduates for leadership roles across diverse sectors. With no GMAT or GRE requirements, the admissions process is streamlined for prospective students.
#7
- Salary Score: N/A
- Online Enrollment: 2,676 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $13,803
- GMAT Required: Yes
Online degree:
Why we like them: ODU enrolls thousands of graduate students exclusively through distance learning. It offers a schedule-friendly online MBA; with a curriculum that spans 43 credit hours, students can engage in an accelerated format, completing courses in eight-week sessions. The program is accredited by the AACSB, ensuring a high standard of education. ODU provides various concentrations, including Project Management and Supply Chain Management, allowing students to tailor their studies to their career goals.
#8
- Salary Score: N/A
- Online Enrollment: 982 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $17,460
- GMAT Required: Yes
Online degree:
Why we like them: In at #8 is RU's online MBA, which is expertly designed for professionals aiming to enhance their leadership skills. This AACSB-accredited program comprises 36 credit hours, allowing students to complete their degree in as little as 12 months. The curriculum features a series of engaging courses that emphasize experiential learning, particularly in areas such as operations management and strategic finance. By focusing on practical skills, the program prepares graduates to tackle real-world challenges.
#9
- Salary Score: N/A
- Online Enrollment: 776 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $16,405
- GMAT Required: Yes
Online degree:
Why we like them: LU provides a dynamic online MBA in Marketing, which is a 31-credit program that can be completed in as few as 10 months, providing an efficient pathway to earning your degree. The curriculum emphasizes the development of marketing strategies and enhances skills in visual storytelling through data analysis. Courses cover essential areas, such as financial management, strategic marketing, and data visualization, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles in sales and analytics.
#10
- Salary Score: N/A
- Online Enrollment: 518 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $12,960
- GMAT Required: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: ECPIU rounds out the top 10, with a comprehensive online MBA that emphasizes practical application through real-world case studies and project-based learning, ensuring students gain relevant experience. With 27 core semester credit hours and 9 credit hours of management electives, the program includes courses like Operations and Supply Chain Management and Global Management Processes. The fully online format allows for flexibility while adaptive learning methodologies empower students to personalize their educational experience.
#11
- Salary Score: N/A
- Online Enrollment: 416 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $22,680
- GMAT Required: Yes
Online degree:
Why we like them: UL is another popular online school that emphasizes a personalized learning experience, supported by an impressive student-faculty ratio of 10:1. This structure fosters meaningful interactions with faculty, enhancing the overall academic journey. The MBA program is accredited by the ACBSP and features both a General Management track and a Sport Management specialization. Students can complete the program entirely online, and the curriculum includes immersive 7.5-week courses covering critical business topics, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles across various industries.
#12
- Salary Score: N/A
- Online Enrollment: 364 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $9,750
- GMAT Required: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: MBU reaches #13 on our list by offering a well-structured online MBA with modern professionals in mind. This program allows students to choose between concentrations in Management or Finance. The coursework is delivered in a self-paced, asynchronous format, complemented by real-time discussions and guest speakers. With multiple start dates and no requirement for a business bachelor's degree, the program is accessible to a wide range of applicants. Emphasizing entrepreneurial principles and corporate social responsibility, Mary Baldwin prepares graduates for strategic roles across various sectors.
#13
- Salary Score: N/A
- Online Enrollment: 284 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $14,112
- GMAT Required: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: EMU offers a unique collaborative online MBA structured for professionals eager to tackle global business challenges. The program consists of 36 credit hours, allowing students to complete their degree in approximately two years. Unique to EMU's approach are two short in-person residencies that provide experiential learning opportunities, emphasizing sustainability practices in diverse settings. The curriculum focuses on developing leadership, relational, and organizational skills. With no GMAT or GRE requirements, the program is accessible, and cohort-based learning fosters valuable relationships with peers and faculty.
#14
- Salary Score: N/A
- Online Enrollment: 223 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $10,807
- GMAT Required: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: The #14 spot is reserved for AU's online MBA and is designed for professionals looking to advance their careers across various fields. The program offers flexibility, allowing students to manage personal and professional commitments while studying. With a focus on practical application, the curriculum includes concentrations such as Applied Data Analytics, Human Resource Management, and Marketing. Students engage in case studies and research, covering quantitative analysis and managerial economics. The small class sizes foster personal interaction and collaboration, enhancing the overall learning experience.
#15
- Salary Score: N/A
- Online Enrollment: 190 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $17,820
- GMAT Required: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: BC offers a compelling online MBA designed for students seeking flexibility and customization in their education. The program allows you to tailor your studies within ten months, focusing on core areas like finance and leadership. With no standardized tests required for admission, the process is streamlined for prospective students. The curriculum requires 30 credit hours and includes specializations in Finance, Healthcare Management, Human Services, Justice Administration, and Leadership. This structure ensures a personalized educational experience that aligns with your career aspirations.
#16
- Salary Score: N/A
- Online Enrollment: 56 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $10,948
- GMAT Required: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: In at #16 is ANU with a highly customizable online MBA created for professionals seeking to enhance their business acumen. The curriculum allows students to focus on various specializations, including Accounting Management, Global Leadership, and Healthcare Management, tailoring their education to align with career goals. Each course is designed to provide practical applications of theoretical concepts, enabling students to engage in real-world projects with local organizations. The program is delivered entirely online, providing flexibility for busy professionals while preparing them for upper-level leadership roles in diverse industries.
#17
- Salary Score: N/A
- Online Enrollment: 50 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $14,970
- GMAT Required: No
Online degree:
Why we like them: Finishing off our list for MBA programs in Virginia is VWU, which has an online MBA that consists of 30 credit hours. It can be completed in as little as 12 months, making it an attractive option for busy professionals. Students can choose from eight concentrations, including Finance, Healthcare Management, and Supply Chain Management, ensuring a personalized learning experience. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills through participative learning and is delivered entirely online, supported by highly qualified faculty dedicated to student success.
Overview of Online MBA Programs in Virginia
Virginia's thriving economy and strategic location on the East Coast make it a prime destination for business professionals pursuing an online MBA. The state boasts a solid GDP and a business-friendly environment, supported by a network of 725,000 small businesses and 21 Fortune 500 companies, including industry leaders like Northrop Grumman, Capital One, and Dominion Energy. This vibrant economic landscape creates significant opportunities for MBA graduates to advance into managerial and executive roles across various sectors, including finance, technology, defense, and healthcare.
Virginia offers a variety of residential choices for graduates interested in starting a business or those seeking an MBA career. In addition to its large cities of Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Richmond, and Newport News, Virginia is also home to smaller cities, towns, and rural locations, perfect for companies looking for more affordable costs for infrastructure, labor, and other operating expenses.
According to the , the state is home to a diverse range of industries, with the largest data center market in the country, a leading concentration of technology workers, a strong manufacturing base, and one of the biggest ports on the East Coast. The Partnership names the following key industries as “poised for growth” in Virginia: corporate services, food and beverage processing, information technology, life sciences, manufacturing, supply chain management, and unmanned systems. With a supportive business ecosystem, MBA graduates in Virginia are well-positioned to excel in leadership roles, drive innovation, and contribute to the state's continued economic growth.
Conclusion: Insights into Virginia’s Online MBA Landscape
Virginia’s online MBA programs reflect the state’s strong economy and diverse professional opportunities, catering to both aspiring leaders and seasoned professionals. Programs like Virginia Tech’s and George Mason University’s lead the way on our list, offering high earning potential as well as innovative features, such as electives in Cybersecurity and Global Residency options. These programs emphasize flexibility, making them ideal for working professionals seeking career advancement. Schools like William & Mary and Liberty University add value through multiple specialization options, ensuring that students can align their education with their specific career goals.
One notable trend across Virginia’s offerings is that many MBA programs integrate experiential projects, cohort models, and real-world case studies to foster leadership skills and strategic thinking. Additionally, the affordability and streamlined admissions processes at institutions like Radford University and Mary Baldwin University highlight Virginia’s commitment to inclusive education. With a mix of elite institutions and accessible programs, Virginia’s online MBAs provide diverse opportunities for professionals to excel in industries ranging from technology and healthcare to finance and nonprofit management.
If budget is a major concern, consider an affordable online MBA from our list based on the lowest tuition costs.
Student Reviews of Online MBA Programs
Great program at a great price. The student services and support were lacking, but if you’re getting an MBA you are probably the type of person who doesn’t need a lot of guidance on classes and scheduling. If you are not a good academic writer and researcher, struggle with grammar, and generally struggle to put solid ideas into writing, you will struggle. As a working professional managing a nursing home during a pandemic, it took a lot of work to finish but finishing was definitely possible. The... Read More
Review Date: 8/19/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND THIS SCHOOL TO ANYONE. LOOK ELSEWHERE IF YOU CARE ABOUT YOUR MONEY. YOU ARE NOT GOING TO GET MUCH FOR THE TIME, EFFORT, AND MONEY YOU'RE REQUIRED TO SPEND FOR THIS PROGRAM. SOME OF THE INSTRUCTORS ARE NOT EVEN QUALIFIED TO TEACH THE MATERIAL.
Review Date: 8/10/2021
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Great school, great learning experience. TUI understands that working adults have conflicting priorities and they make accommodation's for those situations. I work 10-14 hours per day so finding time course work can be challenging. Even when I turn in assignments weeks late the point reduction is negligible. I couldn't have earned my MBA any other way.
Review Date: 11/24/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The University of Massachusetts - Amherst's online MBA program is highly regarded and it shows. The professors are dedicated and the online learning program is demanding. The graduate student population is diverse in both ethnicity, career field, and work experience, making for a great learning environment.
Review Date: 10/11/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I did not find Columbia Southern University's M.B.A. program to be as easy/breezy as some have stated- there was constant reading, research and writing throughout the year-and-a-half I completed my online M.B.A. degree. The classes are set up for students to pass and I wondered if some students were being granted A's without making as strong an attempt as the more serious pupils, but if you make an effort you will definitely believe you truly earned the degree when you finish- I know I have a lot... Read More
Review Date: 5/18/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Pros: Quality of program Support from faculty Network Cons: Location of the school can't compete with schools in Big cities.
Review Date: 2/23/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The MBA program is solid. They offer no prerequisites and no GMAT or GRE. You just jump right in. They offered the first class free to me (I dont know if that is still the case). They also provided a lap top after I completed 6 hours and it was very nice. The courses are offered on an 8 week schedule (online). Each course is set up very similarly. You have 8 weeks with two assignments each week. One discussion and one written paper or problem sets (finance and accounting). The professors grade the... Read More
Review Date: 9/23/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I spent many hours over the course of a few weeks researching online MBA programs before enrolling in the MBA program at LSU Shreveport back in the summer of 2016. I wanted a school that had name recognition, has the coveted AACSB accreditation, and was cost sensitive. LSU Shreveport was by far the best value in meeting all those criteria. I enjoyed the challenge of the program after earning my undergrad business degree 26 years earlier. The majority of the professors were excellent and demanded... Read More
Review Date: 6/5/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am half way done with my MBA and it has been anything but easy, but certainly is not impossible. The pace is rigorous and the exams are challenging, however, if you apply yourself you can be successful, as with any graduate level program. Some faculty members are more involved than others with some being more like facilitators and others taking a more hands on approach, I have yet to have a bad one, though there are some I like more than others. You will have readings, lectures, discussion questions,... Read More
Review Date: 5/24/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Upper Iowa is a great program for those who are unconventional learners. Most of the faculty are easy to reach and interact with. The problem with Upper Iowa is that they do not do a excellent job with employee placement or University Networking.
Review Date: 3/28/2015
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
The university helps one to earn the degree with ease.
Review Date: 9/1/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
WGU is simply amazing. The best school ever, I cannot say enough good things about it. It is challenging, fun and flexible. I started my MBA last month and already finished my first "term" so I've completed 3 courses so far. I can't wait to graduate and apply to be a WGU Student Mentor! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS UNIVERSITY.
Review Date: 11/13/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I absolutely love Western Governors University. It is a non-profit university which makes it very affordable and will not increase my student loan debt upon graduation. I can work at my own pace through every class, I don't have to follow a schedule. For me, the ability to move through class material as soon as I feel ready to move on is invaluable and will likely cut down the time it will take for me to graduate. I finished my first class in 3 weeks! My assigned program mentor calls me every week... Read More
Review Date: 1/7/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I suggest the program for those who want a MBA by doing a part-time program so that they can still focus on work and not lose their income.
Review Date: 7/22/2014
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
The flexibility offered by the online program makes it easy to obtain an MBA. The level of education is good. If the tuition were a little lower, it would be an exceptional value.
Review Date: 8/9/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am taking the online MBA program, so I have no comments on campus life. This college is very well priced for in state and the online program is great for working people interested in learning.
Review Date: 2/10/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The scheduling flexibility and ease of class work hours are just what I was looking for in a program. I am a wife, a mother, and a full-time employee and so flexibility to complete my classwork at my own convenience was top priority. The ability to compare notes and/or directly converse with classmates in real time is ideal, but the forums provided are certainly the next best thing and a worth while opportunity cost considering the flexibility of course scheduling.
Review Date: 11/4/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Enrolling in the online MBA program with University of Phoenix is one of the best decisions I ever made. The learned material is always relevant to not only the current business trends but also the current economy, politics and even my own day to day operations at work. Another pro for this school is that the staff and instructors at UofP are extremely helpful and available to assist at any hour. The only con that I can describe is the price for tuition, but considering the value of the education... Read More
Review Date: 3/6/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Because Goldey-Beacom is a small college, the advisors and faculty are easily accessible. The instructors either work in their field of instruction or have terminal degrees. The only downside is that the college does not offer online courses for the busy professional.
Review Date: 7/30/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I love that the program has a diverse population.There are students across the nation and even the world that I am able to network with. The graduate work is comprehensive and tough at times, but it is manageable. Most of the instructors have been easy to contact and provide feedback.
Review Date: 5/30/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
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