Accelerated MBA Programs Online

An accelerated online MBA programs can open doors of opportunities in 2022. It is one of the most versatile and in-demand degrees, and it prepares students for many different careers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has projected a 5% growth rate for business and financial occupations from 2019-2029, a rate faster than average for all occupations. This shows that careers related to business management will continue to be important in the years to come, and those with an MBA can benefit greatly from this growth.

Accelerated online MBA programs are very appealing to busy professionals. For those who have a hectic schedule, the fast-track program allows students to earn their degree in less time than it would take at a standard business school. Plus, they can save money by avoiding the time expenses associated with traveling to school and using campus amenities.

Those considering accelerated MBA degrees should take into consideration work-life-school balance, program quality, online vs. in-person delivery, and cost.

As a result of COVID-19, many universities expanded and improved their distance education programs, making now a good time to consider a one-year, online MBA.


Accelerated Online MBA Programs

Accelerated Online MBA

Those considering accelerated MBA degrees should take into consideration work-life-school balance, program quality, online vs. in-person delivery, and cost. As a result of COVID-19, many universities expanded and improved their distance education programs, making now a good time to consider a one-year, online MBA.

10 Best Accelerated Online MBA Programs In 2022

1. University of Florida

A school with the current name of UF was first established in 1853, and has been serving students from the current location in Gainesville since 1906. The school’s 500,000th degree was awarded in 2014.

Accreditation
Accreditation

SACSCOC, AACSB

Tuition
Tuition

$49,205/program

Duration
Duration

16 months (full time)

Credits
Credits

32 credits

Warrington College of Business

UF’s one-year online MBA program accepts applications from experienced professionals who have earned a business degree in the last seven years. New students may enroll in January, April, or September. They proceed through the first five terms of the curriculum in lockstep with their cohort.

MBA programs cover brand management, international logistics, investments, and global strategic management. Students can choose from several online electives in addition to the required courses, including a one-week international experience. The program culminates with a hands-on experiential component, such as a global immersion class or a business simulation.

UF’s Accelerated Experience

This 16-month program includes a mandatory on-campus experience followed by a completely online curriculum. As students must have completed prerequisite business courses before applying, the school is able to compress its 48-credit MBA into a 32-credit program.

Admissions

  • Process: Complete the program’s pre-application form and the UF graduate school application. You must also submit your resume, official transcripts, GMAT and GRE scores, and two letters of recommendation.
  • Standardized Tests: GMAT/GRE
  • Cost: $30
  • Location: Gainesville, FL
  • Graduation Rate: 88%

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2. American University

With eight colleges and schools, AU offers degrees in Washington, D.C., including the Kogod School of Business. This school is the first university, urban campus, and research institution to achieve carbon neutrality.

Accreditation
Accreditation

MSCHE, AACSB

Tuition
Tuition

$1,708/credit

Duration
Duration

15 months (full time), 18-24 months (part time)

Credits
Credits

48 credits

Kogod School of Business

One year of the MBA program at AU requires 48 credits, including 13 core courses, two electives, and two immersion experiences. Students take four modules, taking classes like strategic decision-making, financial management, and management of organizations and human capital. Students can concentrate on one of five focus areas by taking all electives from the same field.

Experienced business leaders and professionals looking to switch careers are welcome to apply. However, applicants who did not earn a degree in business will need to have a solid grasp of foundational business concepts.


AU’s Accelerated Experience

AU’s one-year online MBA program offers students an intensive, immersive learning experience suitable for those who are not working full time. In addition to the 15-month accelerated MBA, students can also finish their MBA in 18 or 24 months at AU.

Admissions

  • Process: Submit a complete application, which includes a resume, a copy of your transcript(s), a personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and test scores (optional).
  • Cost: $100
  • Location: Washington, DC
  • Graduation Rate: 80%

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3. Bay Path University

Bay Path began in 1897 and now serves more than 3,300 students as a member of the Women’s College Coalition. However, Bay Path’s graduate programs are open to all learners, even if undergraduate courses are restricted to women.

Accreditation
Accreditation

NECHE

Tuition
Tuition

$855/credit

Duration
Duration

1 year (full time)

Credits
Credits

36 credits

Bay Path Graduate School

The accelerated MBA program at Bay Path welcomes prospective students from business and non-business backgrounds. In the program’s 12 courses, learners explore general business concepts and the foundations of entrepreneurship.

The courses offered include entrepreneurial marketing strategies, investment strategies and risk management, and innovative business growth strategies.

Students apply their knowledge to analyzing a strategic, real-world problem as part of the academic program’s capstone.

Bay Path offers six terms per calendar year, each lasting eight weeks. Students starting in February, June, or October can study full-time or part-time.

Bay Path’s Accelerated Experience

Bay Path offers its MBA program in on-campus and online formats. In terms of requirements, the programs are identical. Online learners have access to the same learning and career services resources as on-campus students.

Admissions

  • Process: Submit an application, resume, official transcripts, an essay, and two recommendations.
  • Location: Longmeadow, MA
  • Graduation Rate: 59%

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4. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Saint Mary’s was founded in 1912 as a Roman Catholic educational institution that serves more than 5,500 students in undergraduate and graduate programs. The school maintains three campuses and also offers several online programs.

Accreditation
Accreditation

HLC

Tuition
Tuition

$690/credit

Duration
Duration

1 year (full time)

Credits
Credits

30 credits

Saint Mary’s School of Business and Technology

In Saint Mary’s one-year online MBA, students can earn their degree in just 12 months of full-time study, making it one of the fastest online MBA programs available. Degree-seekers can complete 30 credits of coursework, which they can customize with 20 different class options.

Program courses include quantitative decision-making, managerial economics, and corporate finance. It concludes with a capstone in which learners evaluate corporate strategy. For the capstone, Saint Mary’s also offers an international option. A 12- to 15-credit graduate certificate is also available to students in an area of specialization.

Saint Mary’s Accelerated Experience

An online MBA program offers the same curriculum as the on-campus program. By taking 12 credits per semester, students can finish the online MBA program faster than the traditional program.

Admissions

  • Process: submit your online application along with official transcripts, writing and quantitative analysis samples, a resume, and two references.
  • GPA: 2.75 minimum GPA
  • Standardized Tests: GMAT only if applicant does not have two years of professional experience
  • Cost: $25
  • Location: Winona, MN
  • Graduation Rate: 61%

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5. Spring Arbor University

In 1873, SAU was founded as an educational enterprise of the Free Methodist Church, an affiliation it maintains to this day. The college’s first adult degree completion program began in the 1980s, along with its first graduate program in 1994.

Accreditation
Accreditation

HLC

Tuition
Tuition

$738/credit

Duration
Duration

1 year (full time)

Credits
Credits

36 credits

Gainey School of Business

The SAU MBA teaches students to positively impact people and their communities through service. The 36-credit accelerated MBA can be completed in 12 months of full-time study.

Students enroll in six core courses plus an online MBA orientation. Courses include leadership in business, statistics for business managers, and international business, which includes a study trip to New York City. There are five concentrations within the MBA program, and each concentration consists of 12 credits. The MBA concludes with a capstone.

The program does not require its participants to be practicing Christians, but it does provide leadership development activities related to faith. Considering that half of the students at SAU are working professionals, the university has developed a strong support system for their academic, professional, and spiritual growth. SAU also offers a joint MBA/MSN online program.

SAU’s Accelerated Experience

SAU students taking an accelerated MBA online program take multiple classes simultaneously to graduate in 12 months. They also offer part-time study for busy people that can be completed in 18 months.

Admissions

  • Process: Prospective students should submit an application, official transcripts, and two recommendation forms.
  • GPA: 3.0 minimum GPA in the last two years of undergraduate study
  • Cost: $30
  • Location: Spring Arbor, MI
  • Graduation Rate: 57%

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6. Molloy College

Molloy was founded by the Dominican Sisters of the Congregation of Holy Cross Amityville as a Catholic educational institution for women on Long Island. Today, the institution educates over 5,000 students across all levels of higher education.

Accreditation
Accreditation

MSCHE

Tuition
Tuition

$1,195/credit

Duration
Duration

1 year (full time)

Credits
Credits

33-36 credits

Molloy College School of Business

At Molloy, students have the option to pursue one of four MBA programs online. For finance, marketing, and management programs, 33 credits are required, while the healthcare degree requires 36 credits. In their learning experiences, students can grow in knowledge, ethics, critical thinking, communication, and decision-making skills.

Courses cover business ethics, financial statement analysis, and quantitative analysis supporting management decisions. The program culminates with a capstone. This course requires students to work as part of a team to create a solutions-driven business product, idea, process, or service.

Degree-seekers entering the program without a bachelor’s in business may need to take additional coursework.

Molloy’s Accelerated Experience

The one-year online MBA at Molloy offers classes in seven-week sessions, which mirror corporate training experiences. Classes are offered all year round so that students can finish in one year.

Admissions

  • Process: Applicants should submit an application, including the essay portion, along with official transcripts, a resume, and a letter of recommendation. Following that, prospective students should schedule an interview.
  • GPA: 3.0 minimum GPA
  • Standardized Tests: GMAT for applicants with lower than a 3.0 GPA
  • Cost: $60
  • Location: Rockville Centre, NY
  • Graduation Rate: 75%

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7. Cedarville University

Cedarville was founded in 1887 as a part of the Reformed Presbyterian Church and maintains its Christian principles of worship, community, and biblical worldview. Now the school offers over 150 programs of study at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Accreditation
Accreditation

HLC and ACBSP

Tuition
Tuition

$623/credit

Duration
Duration

1-2 year (full time)

Credits
Credits

36 credits

Cedarville School of Business Administration

A Christian with a qualifying academic background can pursue an MBA online from Cedarville. Students attend classes in a cohort and work with an academic advisor.

In each of the online MBA program’s 12 courses, a biblical worldview component is combined with a practical application. Among the required courses are executive financial management, strategic marketing planning, and information technology for competitive advantage. Students must take a Bible course unless they completed a Bible studies minor in their undergraduate work. The program is completed with a capstone.

Students go through hands-on projects, business simulations, case studies, and self-directed learning. Cedarville also offers a joint Pharm.D./MBA and a masters-to-bachelor program for the MBA.

Cedarville’s Accelerated Experience

Taking 4-5 classes per term students can complete the general online MBA from Cedarville in one year. A student pursuing one of Cedarville’s concentrations will usually complete the program within two years.

Admissions

  • Process: Prospective students should submit their application, official transcripts, a reference from a Christian leader, and a professional reference.
  • GPA: 2.75 minimum GPA
  • Location: Cedarville, OH
  • Graduation Rate: 72%

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8. Concordia University-Chicago

As part of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, the CUC focuses on truth and freedom in education to help students live lives of influence and service. The school has welcomed learners for more than 150 years.

Accreditation
Accreditation

HLC and ACBSP

Tuition
Tuition

$623/credit

Duration
Duration

1-2 year (full time)

Credits
Credits

36 credits

Concordia University-Chicago College of Business

MBA students can take advantage of CUC’s turn-key, cohort-based education, built on four pillars of knowledge. These pillars include ethics and social responsibility, critical thinking, entrepreneurial mindset, communication and human relations, and global interconnectedness and inclusiveness.

Within this context, the school offers courses such as managing and leading effective organizations, global marketing in the digital era, and strategy for innovation and entrepreneurship. CUC’s MBA program includes specializations that extend the standard curriculum. It concludes with a capstone project.

The program accepts students who do not hold a bachelor’s degree in business and permits them to complete an academic leveling module.

CUC’s Accelerated Experience

At CUC, online MBA students can choose between a one-year or two-year MBA track. Online learners have access to CUC’s graduate studies counselors, writing and math labs, and financial aid assistance.

Admissions

  • Process: Prospective students should submit their application, official transcripts, a reference from a Christian leader, and a professional reference.
  • GPA: 2.75 minimum GPA
  • Location: River Forest, IL
  • Graduation Rate: 72%

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9. Walsh University

Walsh University in North Canton, Ohio, is a private Roman Catholic institution serving 2,650 students from 38 states and 31 countries. They have degrees at every level from associate to doctorate.

Accreditation
Accreditation

HLC and ACBSP

Tuition
Tuition

$623/credit

Duration
Duration

1-2 year (full time)

Credits
Credits

36 credits

The DeVille School of Business at Walsh University

Walsh University requires 36 credits in order to earn an accelerated MBA, which will take you about 12 months to complete. Each course lasts eight weeks and includes courses focusing on sustainable ethical leadership, strategic management, and information systems. Students also complete a two-part practicum. On the practicum, learners complete a business simulation and write leadership papers. The school also offers its practicum students a one-on-one partnership with an industry leader. Students can also choose from four specializations, each requiring five courses.

Walsh’s Accelerated Experience

Students can complete their degree more quickly by taking two classes per eight-week term. Each year, Walsh offers six program start dates.

Admissions

  • Process: Applicants should schedule an appointment with an admissions counselor who can help them determine the right process for admission.
  • Location: North Canton, OH
  • Graduation Rate: 59%

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10. St. Thomas University

St. Thomas University was established in 1961 as Biscayne College by a group of Augustinian friars. Today, the university receives sponsorship from its archdiocese, one of only two such schools in Florida.

Accreditation
Accreditation

SACSCOC

Tuition
Tuition

$515/credit

Duration
Duration

1 year (full time)

Credits
Credits

36-45 credits

Gus Machado School of Business

With STU’s one-year online MBA program, students gain the quantitative and qualitative business management skills they need to make data-driven leadership choices. The degree requires 24 credits in core courses and 12 credits in concentration courses. Among the core courses are international business; strategic marketing management; managerial accounting; and policy, planning, and strategy systems.

Students can access STU’s MBA courses from anywhere and at any time convenient for them. It is even possible for them to submit assignments or discussion posts from their laptop, tablet, or mobile phone. Applicants without a strong academic background in business may need to earn up to nine foundation credits on top of the 36 semester hours they need to earn the degree.

STU’s Accelerated Experience

There are six possible start dates each year for students. Courses are offered in an accelerated seven-week format, which means learners can complete their MBA in as little as 12 months.

Admissions

  • Process: Applicants must submit an application, upload unofficial transcripts, and request official transcripts.
  • GPA: 2.75 minimum GPA, or 2.33-2.74 GPA with 3-4 years experience
  • Location: Miami Gardens, FL
  • Graduation Rate: 44%

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11. Southern Adventist University

Southern University is located in Collegedale, Tennessee and is affiliated with the Seventh Day Adventist Church. More than 2,600 students are enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs at this institution.

Accreditation
Accreditation

SACSCOC and IACBE

Tuition
Tuition

$650/credit

Duration
Duration

1 year (full time)

Credits
Credits

36 credits

Southern Adventist University School of Business

In its home base near Chattanooga, Southern offers an online MBA that can be completed within one year for full-time students and in 2-3 years for part-time learners. Applicants are not required to have a business degree, as Southern University can fulfill needed prerequisites if they need.

In addition to 27 core credits, students also choose nine credits from the emphasis area electives. Strategic decision-making, integrating faith and business and accounting for control and decision-making are core courses in the program. MBA candidates at Southern can also pursue a dual degree in nursing or social work.

Southern’s Accelerated Experience

Students with a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field can complete the MBA at Southern in one year. The program has three start dates each year.

Admissions

  • Process: Prospective students should submit their application along with official transcripts, GMAT scores, and two recommendation forms.
  • GPA:3.0 minimum GPA
  • Standardized Tests: GMAT
  • Cost: $40
  • Location: Collegedale, TN
  • Graduation Rate: 52%

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12. University of the Southwest

An evangelical Christian university located in Hobbes, New Mexico, USW has served students since 1962. There are five fully online graduate degrees offered by the school, including a master’s degree and a doctorate program in business administration.

Accreditation
Accreditation

HLC

Tuition
Tuition

$625/credit

Duration
Duration

1 year (full time)

Credits
Credits

36 credits

University of the Southwest College of Business Administration

The faith-based focus of USW’s one-year online MBA program emphasizes personal initiative and servant leadership. This school’s 36-credit curriculum consists of a 21-credit core and 15 credits of electives.

The core courses include business analytics and econometrics, marketing concepts and strategies, and strategic resource allocation and planning. The degree’s capstone requirements depend on the concentration the student chooses to pursue.

Each student receives a free laptop for access to classes and all digital textbooks are included in the tuition rate. The MBA program does not require students to hold a bachelor’s degree in business.

USW’s Accelerated Experience

All online classes at USW start every eight weeks, giving students the opportunity to finish the program in just one year. Learners can log in from anywhere and at any time, making the curriculum flexible and convenient for working professionals. School students can receive academic credit for professional, military, or occupational experiences, potentially shortening the time from enrollment to graduation.

Admissions

  • Process: Prospective students should submit an application, official transcripts, a professional resume, and 500-word essay.
  • GPA:3.0 minimum GPA
  • Location: Hobbs, NM
  • Graduation Rate: 18%

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13. Kansas Wesleyan University

KWU in Salina, Kansas, a thriving arts community of about 50,000 people, recently celebrated 134 years of service to students. It offers four online degrees and serves just over 800 students.

Accreditation
Accreditation

HLC

Tuition
Tuition

$495/credit

Duration
Duration

1 year (full time)

Credits
Credits

30 credits

Business and Accounting Department

Degree candidates in KWU’s accelerated MBA will be able to finish their degree within one year. The students can complete all their courses online or attend night classes at KWU where they can network with area executives who frequently visit campus.

The MBA curriculum includes four required courses — organizational management, decision analysis, managerial finance, and marketing management. The rest of the coursework depends on whether the student chooses the general track or KWU’s sports management program. In the general track, students can choose one of four concentrations: finance, leadership, marketing, or human resources. In the online MBA program, the last course is free.

KWU’s Accelerated Experience

There are seven application deadlines each year for the program. Classes are offered in eight-week sessions, so students can complete the degree in one year.

The online courses at KWU combine synchronous and asynchronous delivery. Some classes have synchronous online meetings, others have interactive discussion, and still others have pre-recorded video lectures. Each student should complete the first assignment before the official start date of class.

Admissions

  • Process: Prospective students should submit an application and official transcripts.
  • GPA:2.8 minimum GPA
  • Location: Salina, KS
  • Graduation Rate: 37%

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14. St. Andrews University

Initially, St. Andrews’ educational initiative began in 1896 as a project of North Carolina’s Presbyterian churches. The school has been merged with Webber International University since 2011, when they have offered the MBA, the institution’s first graduate program.

Accreditation
Accreditation

SACSCOC

Tuition
Tuition

$450/credit

Duration
Duration

1 year (full time)

Credits
Credits

36 credits

Master of Business Administration

St. Andrew’s accelerated online MBA courses typically enroll fewer than 25 students, making them a perfect place for personalized learning. You’ll complete participation-based learning and hands-on consulting projects in your classes. During the program students are offered full- and part-time options as well as professional career counseling.

It includes two practicums along with 10 other courses such as the global economic environment; strategic thinking in organizations; and innovation, new products and services, and e-commerce. The faculty members deliver each course using state-of-the-art learning technologies.

Students at St. Andrew’s learn the academic discipline of business management alongside applied practices to equip them to lead organizations ethically in a global environment. Classes are taught by both full-time faculty and business professionals.

St. Andrew’s Accelerated Experience

A student can enroll in St. Andrew’s online MBA program with six start dates. Classes run in eight-week sessions throughout the year, so graduates can graduate in 12 months.

Admissions

  • Process: Prospective students should submit an application, official transcripts, a resume, three letters of reference, and a one-page essay detailing personal goals and objectives.
  • Standardized Tests: GMAT
  • Location: Lauringburg, NC
  • Graduation Rate: 32%

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15. Centenary University

Located in Hackettstown, New Jersey, Centenary University has been educating students for more than 150 years. The school also features off-campus learning centers and a national equestrian program.

Centenary University School of Professional Studies

Centenary University’s MBA curriculum includes 30 credits of core courses and nine semester hours in a student’s chosen specialization. Among the core courses are business communications, management information systems, and the legal and social environment of business. The program ends with an MBA seminar. Centenary University’s accelerated online MBA program focuses on each student’s needs with small class sizes. The learner also works with a personal academic advisor.

In order to enroll, students must possess a strong background in economics, accounting, and business statistics. The MBA program at Centenary University accepts up to six credits of transfer courses.

Centenary University’s Accelerated Experience

In both tracks, students can complete Centenary University’s 13-course accelerated MBA in just 14 months. Each class lasts eight weeks. Students attend classes on campus one night a week and complete the rest of their requirements online.

Admissions

  • Process: Prospective students should submit an application, essay, and official transcripts.
  • GPA:2.5 minimum GPA
  • Location: Hackettstown, NJ
  • Graduation Rate: 55%

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Similar Programs

Affordable Online MBA Programs

Online MBA Programs No GMAT

AACSB Accredited Online MBA Programs

Is an Accelerated MBA Worth It?

An accelerated MBA is a specific type of MBA that allows students to complete their degree faster than a traditional MBA. This approach is targeted at graduate students who have already earned an undergraduate degree. Offered by some business schools, accelerated MBAs typically require two years of study and take place on a part-time basis.

Students can calculate the return on investment by comparing the cost of their program, the salary they earn once they begin working, and the speed with which they obtain employment. MBA graduates can expect starting salaries that far exceed tuition costs even if they have attended top business schools.

According to a May 2019 report, the median annual salary for new MBA hires is $115,000 from U.S. companies. Business school graduates also receive significant signing bonuses from many employers.

An accelerated MBA is an MBA program lasting 12 month to two years at the most instead of the typical two years to three years. This allows you to graduate faster and start earning a higher than normal salary sooner than a traditional MBA. An accelerated masters degree also saves you time if you are considering getting your masters after a four year bachelor’s degree. Also, check out our guide on scholarship for business majors and cost of a masters degree here.

Career & Jobs

Getting your MBA degree can be a big step in furthering your career and giving you the edge you need to get ahead in today’s competitive job market. In fact, according to the Graduate Management Admission Council, MBA graduates in the United States and overseas are in high demand. Check out our detail guide on salary of each specializations below:

MBA In Marketing Salary
MBA In Information Technology Salary
MBA in Healthcare Management Salary
MBA in Finance Salary

ModelCareerMedian Salary Per Annum
1.Administrative Services Managers$96,940
2.Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Managers$135,900
3.Computer and Information Research Scientist$122,840
4.Computer and Information Systems Managers$146,360
5.Financial Managers$129,890
6.Management Analysts$85,260
7.Medical and Health Services Managers$100,980
8.Sales Managers$126,640
9.Top Executives$104,690

What to Expect From the Fastest Online MBAs

There are a number of benefits to earning a degree online. For one, you don’t have to relocate. Online programs also allow students to complete their coursework around their professional and personal commitments, which can be a challenge for traditional MBA students. Full-time students usually graduate in 24 months, but part-time learners may take longer. There are many schools offering accelerated MBA programs, with one-year programs compressed into just a year. Some schools offer five-year bachelor’s-to-master’s bridge programs that allow students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in business in five years combined.

A traditional MBA program takes about two years to complete, while an accelerated MBA program typically can be completed in one year. Traditional and accelerated MBAs usually require the same number of credits (although some schools offer more depending on program), but accelerated programs condense the curriculum of a traditional two-year degree into one year. MBA specializations include accounting, management information systems and strategy. Most instruction is provided by full-time faculty, though part-time and adjunct instructors are often involved as well.

For a growing number of professionals, returning to school to earn an MBA may be an enticing option that offers the opportunity to advance their careers and increase their bottom line. Whether you’re interested in a traditional or accelerated format, online or in person classes, there are several options available to help you reach your educational goals.

There are a number of benefits to earning a degree online. For one, you don’t have to relocate. Online programs also allow students to complete their coursework around their professional and personal commitments, which can be a challenge for traditional MBA students. Full-time students usually graduate in 24 months, but part-time learners may take longer. There are many schools offering accelerated MBA programs, with one-year programs compressed into just a year. Some schools offer five-year bachelor’s-to-master’s bridge programs that allow students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in business in five years combined.

A traditional MBA program takes about two years to complete, while an accelerated MBA program typically can be completed in one year. Traditional and accelerated MBAs usually require the same number of credits (although some schools offer more depending on program), but accelerated programs condense the curriculum of a traditional two-year degree into one year. MBA specializations include accounting, management information systems and strategy. Most instruction is provided by full-time faculty, though part-time and adjunct instructors are often involved as well.

For a growing number of professionals, returning to school to earn an MBA may be an enticing option that offers the opportunity to advance their careers and increase their bottom line. Whether you’re interested in a traditional or accelerated format, online or in person classes, there are several options available to help you reach your educational goals.

Benefits Of Getting An MBA Faster

An accelerated MBA allows you to benefit from an MBA degree program in less time than the standard route – and at a lower cost. If you are entertaining the idea of getting an MBA degree and would prefer to have your degree in less time or if you feel that one-year MBA programs offer certain benefits and advantages, you should know what you’re getting into. Below, we outline the benefits and drawbacks of accelerated online MBA programs.

Benefits of One-Year MBAs

Trade-Offs With One-Year MBAs

  • Save Time
    You may be able to enter the workforce, start earning money, and achieve your career goals more quickly.
  • Save Money
    Getting an MBA degree in less time can save you money. You’ll probably pay less tuition and start earning an MBA salary earlier.
  • Less Time to Build Relationships
    The MBA program promotes deep friendships and extensive networking opportunities. A one-year MBA reduces the time available in making these beneficial connections.
  • Can’t Work Simultaneously
    A one-year MBA requires a lot of commitment, so you probably won’t be able to work while you’re in school.
  • Too Intense
    For those who need additional time to process new information, an accelerated MBA program may present too much information in a short period of time.
  • No Internship
    You won’t likely complete a summer internship. Experiential learning opportunities, such as traditional summer MBA internships, often lead to professional connections and jobs after graduation.
  • Easier Transition
    Shortening the education process and enabling quicker entry into the business world can reduce the stress related to employment searching.
  • Same Outcomes
    Accelerated MBA students typically receive the same career opportunities and earn similar salaries as those graduating from traditional MBA programs.
  • Professional Classmates
    Students in accelerated MBA programs tend to be older and further along in their careers than those enrolled in traditional MBA programs.

Comparing Traditional and Accelerated MBA Programs

ModelCareerMedian Salary Per Annum
Length of Program12 months24 months
SpecializationsGeneral management, strategic leadership, marketing, financial management, human resources management, etc.General management, strategic leadership, marketing, financial management, human resources management, etc.
Types of CoursesLeadership, marketing, financial management, information systems, accounting, data analysis, operations, strategic managementLeadership, marketing, financial management, information systems, accounting, data analysis, operations, strategic management
Average Credit Load30-45 credits30-45 credits
Program FormatOnline, in-person, hybridOnline, in-person, hybrid
Admission RequirementsBachelor’s degree in business, minimum 2.7-3.0 GPA, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, 3-5 years of relevant professional experienceBachelor’s degree, minimum 2.7-3.0 GPA, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, GRE or GMAT
InternshipsOptionalOften Required
GoalPrepare graduates for well-paying careers in businessPrepare graduates for well-paying careers in business
Student DemographicsOlder students, working professionalsOften younger students transitioning from bachelor’s degrees

Is There An One-Year MBA Programs Online?

Many US and international universities offer one-year accelerated MBA programs. These increasingly common distance education programs provide students with learning experiences and opportunities of the same high quality as their in-person counterparts. When schools offer one-year MBA programs online, they do not simply replicate their in-person curricula. Instead, they build distance education MBA programs that reflect how today’s business environment is changing.

All people can appreciate the convenience and flexibility of distance education. Accelerated MBA programs thrive online, emphasizing the importance of technology skills in today’s business world. With many on-campus programs disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, an online, one-year MBA program may seem especially appealing today.

You have to decide if you can learn effectively and affordably online before signing on the dotted line. Cost, program structure, and personal comfort level with independent study are important factors to weigh.

The Admissions Process

Admission requirements for accelerated MBA programs vary by college. Many colleges require that applicants have a bachelor’s degree and a minimum GPA of 2.5 but some insist that applicants also possess a graduate business degree. The MBA program will boil down to your current educational status, your prior work experience and your career goals.

Most students applying to business schools take an MBA entrance exam and submit scores from the GRE or GMAT. Some programs don’t require standardized test scores. Also required are 3-5 years of professional experience, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. Applicants to accelerated MBA programs may be required to demonstrate professional experience more frequently than to applicants to traditional business school programs.

Admission committees may also require in-person or phone interviews. The application materials typically include college transcripts, a completed application, and an application fee.

Specialization Options for Accelerated MBAs

Specialization options for accelerated MBAs are very similar to those of traditional programs, with a couple of differences. Accelerated MBA programs often stick to the core program of courses required by the school as a way of making sure students complete their degree requirements in a timely manner. Specializations are offered in place of electives, but students still have plenty of room for choosing a concentration that is truly meaningful to them and their future careers. A person who wants to keep their options open and develop a breadth of skills may prefer a general MBA instead.

An accelerated Master of Business Administration (MBA) has fewer requirements than a standard MBA program and can be completed in one to two years. Although some accelerated MBA programs are available online, students typically have to attend classes on campus to receive credit. Accelerated MBAs typically contain the same foundational courses as a regular MBA program, such as accounting, finance, marketing, e-business, operations management and organizational behavior. Accelerated MBAs also include a series of electives that students choose based on their professional interests. Most programs offer core, elective/concentration, and capstone/internship courses. Here are some typical accelerated MBA classes.

LEADING PEOPLE

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FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING FOR DECISION-MAKERS

A basic knowledge of financial accounting will be developed in this course. Students are taught to record economic events and analyze financial statements and disclosures. The class also focuses on accounting standards, the financial reporting process, and managerial incentives.

CRITICAL THINKING FOR MANAGERS

Learners gain experience evaluating claims critically to make the best decisions. Managers use this skill every day.

RESEARCH METHODS IN MARKETING

Students learn how to make management decisions based on marketing research. The elective class examines customer needs to develop new products and services.

HUMAN CAPITAL MANAGEMENT

The elective focuses on finding, using, and motivating human talent to make organizations more competitive. Recruitment and selection, equal opportunity employment, and fair discipline are other topics. Students learn about strategy, goal setting, and communication.

An introduction to managing people in organizations is provided in this core course. Learners examine topics like conflict management, change management, diagnosing organizational culture, and leadership strategies. Leadership, management, and interpersonal skills are developed.

Cost For Accelerated MBA

An accelerated MBA program is an excellent way to reduce the cost of getting a business degree. The appeal of an accelerated MBA is clear—in less time, you can get on with your career. By reducing the time spent in college, accelerated degree students are able to take on lower student loan debt and begin their careers sooner.

The cost of an accelerated MBA varies by school. The total cost of your MBA will include tuition and fees, any books you have to buy, travel expenses to campus, and on-campus housing or other living expenses.

MBA programs are typically more expensive than an undergraduate or master’s degree when taken at a public university. Private institutions often charge more because they offer students services such as networking events, professional mentors, and alumni engagement. Public colleges and universities tend to provide these benefits for free, but private universities may charge a fee to cover the costs of offering those advantages.

You should look into the school’s financial aid opportunities no matter what one-year online MBA program you choose. A student may qualify for loans, grants, work-study programs, and scholarships.

Selecting the Right One-Year MBA Program for You

FAQs About Accelerated Online MBA Programs