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Most Popular Online MBAs in Washington D.C.

By Bailey Fletcher • Updated 12/16/2024

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Online MBA programs offered in the District of Columbia stand out for their accessibility and affiliation with prestigious institutions. These programs cater to you, offering flexibility to balance professional commitments while attaining a distinguished education. The curriculum is typically rigorous, emphasizing leadership, strategic management, and global business perspectives to equip you with comprehensive skills relevant in today’s business environment.

Key Takeaway:

  • George Washington University is the #1 most popular online graduate school on our list, and it has the best salary outcomes for MBA graduates, who make a median salary of $135,286.

We consider schools that have a primary campus in the highlighted state and offer fully online MBAs. We rank them based on each online graduate school's online enrollment to show the most popular options from the perspective of distance learners. We use data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). For details, please refer to our methodology page.

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Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

We've got them. Let's get started.

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List Of Accredited Online MBA Schools

Tuition numbers were manually collected and verified where noted
School Online Enrollment Annual Tuition Median Earnings GMAT Required
The George Washington University 8,800 8,800 $47,244 N/A No
American University 1,471 $33,239 N/A No
American University - MBA 1,471 $33,239 N/A No
Howard University 339 $19,202 N/A Yes
University of the Potomac 58 $8,100 N/A No

  • Online Enrollment: 8,800 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $47,244
  • Location: Washington D.C.
  • GMAT Required: No

Online degree:

Why we like them: GWU earns its position with 8,800 students engaged in virtual learning at the graduate level, placing it within the top 2% nationwide. Compounding its appeal is the commendable graduation rate of 84%, indicating the university’s ability to support and guide online learners to completion successfully. GWU's Online MBA in Healthcare demands the completion of 46.5 credits. Its fully online coursework is delivered alongside optional global experiential opportunities. Learning materials are diverse, comprising videos, podcasts, and interactive elements, while live weekly sessions enable real-time student-faculty interaction.

American University American University American University

  • Online Enrollment: 1,471 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $33,239
  • Location: Washington D.C.
  • GMAT Required: No

Online degree:

Why we like them: AU's online MBA takes the #2 spot for several key metrics, notably its strong online enrollment figure of 1,471, placing it in the top 19% of comparable graduate schools nationwide. This means it's a popular choice among distance learners. This is further exemplified by the 88% recommendation rate from students and alums, which is the highest on our list. AU offers an online MBA with a program length of 18-24 months, requiring 48 credit hours. The curriculum consists of 13 core courses and two in-person immersions that take place in Washington, DC, or other global business centers.

American University - MBA American University - MBA American University - MBA

  • Online Enrollment: 1,471 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $33,239
  • Location: Washington
  • GMAT Required: No

Online degree:

Why we like them: AU hosts an impressive 1,471 online graduate students, positioning it among the top 19% of schools in this metric. The Kogod School of Business at AU offers a 45-credit online MBA program designed to enhance your career with critical business skills. The program allows for flexibility in completion time, offering tracks that can be finished within 12 to 18 months. Emphasizing leadership and financial analysis skills, the curriculum includes two in-person immersions for practical experience.

Howard University Howard University Howard University

  • Online Enrollment: 339 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $19,202
  • Location: Washington D.C.
  • GMAT Required: Yes

Online degree:

Why we like them: HU's online enrollment is noteworthy, with hundreds of graduate students taking courses exclusively online. Its online Executive MBA is designed specifically for seasoned professionals. Requiring 42 credit hours and typically completed within 18 months, the program covers strategic finance, management, and entrepreneurship through a flexible online format that is friendly to many schedules. The program includes a Strategic Management Capstone and international immersions. Students also benefit from executive coaching and a robust alumni network, supporting their journey to C-Suite roles.

University of the Potomac University of the Potomac University of the Potomac

  • Online Enrollment: 58 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $8,100
  • Locations: Multiple Locations
  • GMAT Required: No

Online degree:

Why we like them: UP is positioned at rank #5 and offers a burgeoning online MBA that makes graduate students into consummate professionals. It requires a total of 36 credits, with the possibility to transfer up to 15 credits. The program is available entirely online, ensuring flexibility in scheduling. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the program emphasizes real-world skills, taught by practicing professionals. One distinct concentration available is Artificial Intelligence, allowing you to lead AI-driven projects.

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

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Overview of Online MBA Programs in Washington D.C.

Washington, D.C., renowned for its government and public sector opportunities, is also a thriving hub for private sector growth in industries like technology, logistics, finance, nonprofits, and consulting. This dynamic landscape has increased demand for business professionals equipped with advanced education. Pursuing an online MBA in Washington, D.C., allows working professionals to capitalize on this growth while maintaining career flexibility. An online MBA program not only enhances career advancement but also aligns with the region's evolving business needs, offering a pathway to leadership roles in diverse industries.

Prospective MBA students in Washington, D.C., can select from a broad assortment of degrees, including traditional on-campus and online options in many areas of specialization. MBA programs in the nation's capital typically require the completion of 30-36 credit hours, as well as an internship and a capstone project. If you attend school full time, you may be able to complete an MBA program in two years, but part-time students may need additional time.

Most MBA programs require applicants to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, but not necessarily a business degree. Business schools accept many non-business majors into their MBA programs, enabling graduates to combine their expertise in two or more fields. Some schools may also require applicants to have several years of work experience, and some still require high GMAT or GRE scores.

How To Choose an Online MBA Program in Washington, D.C.

If you're planning to earn an MBA degree in Washington, D.C., or perhaps a nearby state, you'll want to look for several important criteria to ensure you're getting a quality education. One of these factors is accreditation, a designation that proves that the school has been independently reviewed and found to meet high standards. 

When reviewing accredited Washington, D.C., MBA options, you may also want to thoroughly research each program in terms of how it will help you achieve your professional goals. For example, you'll want to select a program that offers the concentration you're most interested in or that will allow you to customize the program through your choice of electives. You may also want to look into the credentials of the faculty, the types of learning activities used to develop particular skills, and whether there will be mentorship opportunities.

Other factors that may help you choose one MBA program over another include the school's support services. You may want to look for a school that provides career development services, such as resume writing, interview coaching, and job placement assistance. It may also be helpful to find a school with a supportive alumni association that you can rely on for guidance and networking.

Many types of MBA programs are available online. Depending on your personal goals and circumstances, you may want to consider an accelerated MBA to speed up time until completion. 

Types of MBAs to Choose From

Online MBA programs are designed to provide a comprehensive education in business management. However, if you'd like to acquire advanced knowledge and develop leadership abilities in one particular aspect of business or in a specific industry, you may want to select a program with a concentration. Below are some of the more popular options:

Accounting

MBA in Accounting: Courses in an MBA in Accounting program provide a strong foundation in financial and managerial accounting, financial reporting, and strategic decision-making. Many students earn an MBA in Accounting to help meet the requirements for becoming a Certified Public Accountant and position themselves for executive-level financial management roles. 

Finance

MBA in Finance: The curriculum for an MBA in Finance covers all aspects of business with a particular focus on financial planning, risk management, and investments. This concentration prepares students for a wide range of advanced positions within the finance and banking industries, as well as many other corporations and organizations. 

Healthcare Management

MBA in Healthcare Management: An MBA in Healthcare Management combines general business administration courses with specialty classes on the U.S. healthcare system, healthcare regulations, and insurance. This program helps prepare graduates for high-level managerial positions throughout the healthcare industry, including pharmaceutical and insurance companies. 

HR

MBA in Human Resources: Human Resources can be an important part of an organization's growth strategy. Coursework in an MBA in Human Resources program provides in-depth information on talent management, training, and employment law. 

Information Systems

MBA in Information Systems: An MBA in Information Systems is designed for IT professionals who want to develop their leadership abilities. The curriculum usually includes advanced courses in information technology as well as business management courses, which help prepare graduates for higher-level managerial roles. 

International Business

MBA in International Business: In an MBA in International Business program, specialized courses focus on global economics, international marketing, and international finance. This degree is particularly useful for prospective high-level managers who need a global perspective on business and trade.

Management

MBA in Management: The MBA in Management is one of the most versatile concentrations because it covers business fundamentals and leadership skills that can be used in virtually any organization. Enrollees typically take advanced courses in finance, accounting, and marketing while developing strengths in motivation, ethical decision-making, and strategy.

Marketing

MBA in Marketing: Another fairly versatile program, an MBA in Marketing prepares graduates for high-level positions in all types of businesses and industries. The curriculum often includes advanced courses in consumer behavior, branding, forecasting, sales force management, and selling strategies.

Organizational Leadership

MBA in Organizational Leadership: As an interdisciplinary program, an MBA in Organizational Leadership studies business management by focusing on psychology and human behavior. Graduates with this degree often become corporate trainers, sales directors, and organizational management consultants.

MBA Jobs in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C., is experiencing across various sectors, notably in business and financial operations, management, and computer and mathematical occupations. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria metropolitan area has a higher concentration of business and financial operations jobs compared to the national average, with mean hourly wages in this sector reaching $56.24, surpassing the national mean of $43.55. 

This strong job market underscores the value of an MBA for professionals aiming to advance their careers in the D.C. area. The region's diverse industries, including technology, logistics, finance, nonprofits, and consulting, offer numerous opportunities for MBA graduates. 

FAQs About Washington D.C. MBAs

What Is the Cost of MBA Programs in Washington, D.C.?


The cost of MBA programs in Washington, D.C., can range significantly, depending on factors like the school's reputation, program format, and residency status. Online MBA options often have more affordable tuition compared to on-campus programs, offering cost savings in areas like commuting and housing. Prospective students can further reduce costs by exploring financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, fellowships, and employer tuition reimbursement programs. Planning strategically and leveraging available resources can make an MBA a more attainable investment. 

You can also explore our list of the top most affordable online MBAs across the country.

Is an MBA in Washington, D.C., Worth It?


Determining if an MBA in Washington, D.C., is worth the investment depends on your goals and the degree's potential return on investment (ROI). This ROI includes comparing the program's costs, including tuition and financing fees, to the career advancement and earning potential it offers. The D.C. area’s thriving job market in sectors like government, finance, consulting, and technology makes the degree particularly valuable for professionals seeking leadership roles. Additionally, consider how the program aligns with your personal aspirations and professional ambitions to gauge its long-term benefits.

Can I Get an MBA Online in Washington, D.C.?


Yes, Washington, D.C., offers accredited online MBA programs designed for working professionals. These programs provide flexibility, enabling students to balance career commitments while advancing their education. In addition to D.C.-based options, nearby states like Virginia and Maryland host reputable online MBA programs, expanding choices for prospective students. Online learning allows you to access top-tier business education without needing to relocate, making it a practical option for those seeking quality and convenience.

Student Reviews of Online MBA Programs

CRa, Graduated 2022

Attended: Louisiana State University - Shreveport

I'm currently enrolled at LSUS, but am over halfway done. So far, I have 4 "A"s and 2 "B"s. Is this a tough school, yes. Can it be done while working full-time, yes. I'm really taken aback by the reviews on here and it's why I felt compelled to write a review. Getting your MBA should be hard, or else it would take away from everyone being able to actually obtain one, right? LSUS is the best value AACSB accredited MBA, and I searched for 3 months prior to enrolling. I work full-time between 50-60... Read More

Review Date: 11/8/2021

Attended: Louisiana State University - Shreveport

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

CRa, Graduated 2022

Hanna Brunette, Graduated 2021

Attended: Walden University

MBA was very educational and worth it. My down moment was actually at the beginning of the program, because it was my first time attending an online school, so finding where the prof' s instructions were located was a big deal for me. Even though I passed the orientation:) . Apart from that it was a Smooth sale after. All the instructor's answered all my questions at any time.

Review Date: 6/21/2021

Attended: Walden University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Hanna Brunette, Graduated 2021

DM, Graduated 2020

Attended: Louisiana State University - Shreveport

The MBA program at LSUS is a money maker for the school. It is the cash cow that keeps the whole school afloat. But is it worth it for you? No, it most likely is not. The teachers are average or maybe below average. The courseware absolutely sucks since they still use antiquated Moodle and either your professor knows what they are doing online or they don't and don't care much. Be prepared to depend more on yourselves and don't expect much help. They use ProctorU to keep track of tests or quizes... Read More

Review Date: 1/15/2021

Attended: Louisiana State University - Shreveport

Overall Rating: 2/5

Experience Rating: 2/5

Instruction Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

DM, Graduated 2020

MBA Graduate, Graduated 2020

Attended: West Chester University of Pennsylvania

The MBA program is not designed well for working professionals. The amount of work required in the 7 week courses is ridiculous for many of the courses. This is why a number of professors open up the courses early which demonstrates that they uinderstand the curriculum is impossible to complete in just 7 weeks. There are a number of group projects that are close to awful because they are not conducive to a working professionals schedule, directions are unclear, group members schedules just don't... Read More

Review Date: 3/15/2020

Attended: West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Overall Rating: 3/5

Experience Rating: 2/5

Instruction Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

MBA Graduate, Graduated 2020

Frustrated Student, Graduated 2020

Attended: University of North Alabama

I would be very careful in attending the UNA MBA program. I already have two degrees from UNA. In my first Master's I received a 4.0 GPA and was very successful in my program gaining acceptance to multiple honor societies. The UNA MBA program is filled with snakes. I received an Incomplete for a course since I was affected by some tornadoes that came through the area. J. I. is a horrible professor, who has no respect or concern for his students in any way. He will not abide the UNA Graduate Catalog,... Read More

Review Date: 5/30/2019

Attended: University of North Alabama

Overall Rating: 3/5

Experience Rating: 1/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Frustrated Student, Graduated 2020

JJ, Graduated 2019

Grand Canyon University is a great option for those seeing a lot of flexibility with pursuing an MBA. The online program, while structured, makes it possible to manage a busy work and learning schedule. For graduate students, please expect to do your learning all on your own. There are no instructor led lectures, though professors do include lecture notes for some courses. A significant amount of reading and research is required for success. Each course is compartmentalized into one week study and... Read More

Review Date: 3/4/2019

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

JJ, Graduated 2019

A, Graduated 2018

Attended: Louisiana State University - Shreveport

The online program is ok. There are a few professors that are fine and others that literally do not know how to teach online. Some of the professors make the students pretty much teach themselves and have the students have "discussion boards" for the students to teach one another. When you have a problem about a class, do not count on the administration to help you! Each class has about 400 students.

Review Date: 3/28/2018

Attended: Louisiana State University - Shreveport

Overall Rating: 2/5

Experience Rating: 2/5

Instruction Rating: 2/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

A, Graduated 2018

Morgan Child, Graduated 2018

Attended: University of Phoenix

Currently I am enrolled in the MBA/MHA program through the University of Phoenix. I cannot be happier with the education I am receiving. As long as you can discipline yourself enough and are passionate about your goals and dreams, I have learned that you can accomplish anything!

Review Date: 8/31/2016

Attended: University of Phoenix

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Morgan Child, Graduated 2018

Tom D, Graduated 2018

Attended: Capella University

FlexPath is sold as a flexible way to complete a degree program, but it's so poorly executed that I can't recommend it to anyone. There is vast inconsistency in how each course is presented. Most are sorely lacking in resources to complete the course, or are so vague in their resource recommendations that you'll need to be entirely self-sufficient. Where software is needed (e.g. statistics), there is virtually zero guidance on which package to use or how to obtain it for free or at a discount (Other... Read More

Review Date: 2/12/2018

Attended: Capella University

Overall Rating: 2/5

Experience Rating: 3/5

Instruction Rating: 1/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

Tom D, Graduated 2018

Allison DeBruycker, Graduated 2018

Attended: Capella University

I love the flexibility of my graduate program. Working full time while pursuing my MBA could be so overwhelming, but Capella makes it easy with their flexible learning options.

Review Date: 3/11/2014

Attended: Capella University

Overall Rating: 3/5

Experience Rating: 2.5/5

Instruction Rating: 3.5/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

Allison DeBruycker, Graduated 2018

Alex M., Graduated 2018

Attended: University of Maryland - College Park

Having never taken an online class before, the learning curve to get acclimated to the online system was steep. We attended a 4 day residency to get us up to speed on the content of the course load and I don't think I've ever been more excited to learn and study with a group of driven, hardworking individuals. This program is one of the best in the nation and this is reflected in the passion the professors and administrators have for it. The course load is very demanding but the amount of value and... Read More

Review Date: 7/8/2016

Attended: University of Maryland - College Park

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Alex M., Graduated 2018

Chris, Graduated 2018

Attended: Everglades University

I completed my MBA while working full time and raising a family. Everglades University provided a convenient format to fit my busy schedule and life. The one class at a time worked well for me. It was not easy but the staff and faculty were there every step of the way to support me! I am proud to be an EU alumni! Great University! It also helped my career adavancement.

Review Date: 7/6/2018

Attended: Everglades University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Chris, Graduated 2018

Landon Ellington, Graduated 2017

Attended: The University of Texas at Dallas

The largest benefit of being able to take classes online, is that I have power over my schedule. It would be nice if there were more financial aid opportunities. Even though I take classes online, the professors use creative techniques to make each student feel like part of the classroom. I was surprised at how much collaboration is done through online classes using the latest in technology. I believe that this is the way we will learn in the not so distant future, and UTD will be at the forefront... Read More

Review Date: 11/11/2014

Attended: The University of Texas at Dallas

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 4/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Landon Ellington, Graduated 2017

Becoming a Phoenix, Graduated 2017

Attended: University of Phoenix

The Master's in Business Administration with certificate in Project Management was by no means a walk in the park. The courses were rigorous. Research is required. Thought and supporting contributions are highly enforced. Many instructors are quite knowledgeable and supportive. I enjoyed many courses as it was aligned with my current position at work and sometimes the course helped me to understand the organizations initiatives. Courses are aligned to encourage moving to the next in order to complete... Read More

Review Date: 3/17/2017

Attended: University of Phoenix

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Becoming a Phoenix, Graduated 2017

J Blackwell, Graduated 2017

Attended: University of Phoenix

I attended my local junior college to obtain my general education credits and work towards a bachelor degree with little to no school debt. I traveled a lot for my employer and selected the University of Phoenix because of the many locations throughout my state and online options available to me in completing my degree. I had a good experience in obtaining my Bachelor degree in Business Management with the University and decided to attend for graduate studies. My employer valued the curriculum I... Read More

Review Date: 3/20/2017

Attended: University of Phoenix

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

J Blackwell, Graduated 2017

Andrea Tasca, Graduated 2017

Attended: University of Phoenix

UOP is a great school for those who have busy schedules. You can work on your time as long as you turn your assignments in by the due date. I like that I can work ahead. The academic and financial advisers are wonderful. They are always available to answer questions and give advice. I really enjoyed earning my Business degree. The courses were helpful and help me relate to my current job. I am now pursuing my MBA and have 10 classes left. I'm excited!

Review Date: 9/3/2016

Attended: University of Phoenix

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Andrea Tasca, Graduated 2017

Marco Vergara, Graduated 2016

Attended: Indiana University - Bloomington

Working on my MBA through the Kelley Direct Program at Indiana University. There are quite a few great instructors on this program, all the Professors respond quickly, provide great feedback and most courses are challenging! I am very happy with my choice for my MBA.

Review Date: 11/8/2015

Attended: Indiana University - Bloomington

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Experience Rating: 4.5/5

Instruction Rating: 4.5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Marco Vergara, Graduated 2016

Kortney Ester, Graduated 2016

Attended: Mount Vernon Nazarene University

This school is perfect for me because of my spirituality and beliefs. I have a lot of support from staff and faculty. The online tools and resources are a big help as well. There is a cohort group that I am apart of. It is probably the only thing I don't particularly care about and that is because I prefer to work alone. The plus side to the group is being able to get my peers' point of view on topics and it instills a sense of competitiveness amongst the class.

Review Date: 5/28/2014

Attended: Mount Vernon Nazarene University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Kortney Ester, Graduated 2016

Brian Parrott, Graduated 2016

Attended: East Carolina University

The benefits of ECU's MBA program is that they are flexible in working with you. For instance, if you need to take a break for a semester, it will not hinder you in any way. The costs comparable to other online universities is great. It's very affordable. The cons is that the tests needs to be proctored, so it is difficult to work a full-time job and pursue your MBA.

Review Date: 10/21/2014

Attended: East Carolina University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 4/5

Instruction Rating: 4.5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Brian Parrott, Graduated 2016

Leah Beatty, Graduated 2016

Attended: University of Phoenix

Pros: I save gas money and can easily work around my work schedule. They check up on me to make sure I feel comfortable with the work load and offer a wide selection of diversity among students. Cons: I have yet to find one.

Review Date: 1/22/2014

Attended: University of Phoenix

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Leah Beatty, Graduated 2016

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