Finding the online MBA program that best fits you—your goals, your schedule, your standards—takes time and research. But what should you look for in an online MBA program? To help you in the decision-making process, we’ve provided a program evaluation guide and customized comparison tool.
We hope these resources prove useful. If you have questions or need help navigating the admissions process, please contact us.
Use this customized Excel spreadsheet to compare online MBA programs and narrow your search.
Tip: Look for programs accredited by AACSB with high rankings from respected sources, including Poets&Quants, U.S. News & World Report, and Financial Times.
Why Kelley: The AACSB-accredited Kelley School of Business at Indiana University was the first top-ranked business school to offer an online MBA and we’re consistently ranked among the best online MBA programs in the world.
Best Online MBA Program
U.S. News & World Report 2023
Tip: In addition to financial costs, consider the investment of your time and resources. How long does it take the average student to graduate? Are scholarships available? Also look at return on investment, including average starting salary and how many students earned promotions.
Why Kelley: Most Kelley Direct Online MBA students complete the program in two years (though you can take up to four years to complete the degree). We offer merit-based scholarships, giving special consideration for applicants with strong test scores and undergraduate GPA.
average post-graduation salary
of Kelley Direct Online MBA students started a new job or reported receiving a promotion or raise while enrolled
Tip: Live, synchronous classes give you the opportunity to connect with faculty and engage in discussion with your classmates. Note if a program includes live classes, the class frequency and time, and who leads the classes.
Why Kelley: The Kelley Direct Online MBA curriculum was specifically designed for online students who are working professionals. Kelley Direct faculty—the same world-class faculty who teach in Kelley’s in-residence programs—are experts in online instruction who engage with students during live weekly classes.
credits
majors
elective courses
Tip: Meeting your classmates and professors in person enhances your online classes. Find programs that offer in-person experiences and discover if domestic and international immersion trips are offered. If you plan to participate in an immersion course, how many immersions are available during your time in the program?
Why Kelley: From an in-person Kelley On Campus experience to optional global and domestic immersion courses, opportunities to create real, lasting relationships are built into your Kelley Direct experience.
Tip: A dedicated career coach is invaluable in improving your career potential. If a program provides career coaching, ask the coach’s specialty—do they work exclusively with online MBA students? How long after graduation will you receive career support? Also consider the size and strength of each program’s alumni network, which can provide pivotal connections throughout your career.
Why Kelley: The Kelley Direct Online MBA provides world-class career services specially crafted for online students. Your expert career coach will provide perspective on challenges unique to busy professionals managing work, school, and life. Plus, you’ll have lifetime access to Graduate Career Services and become part of the largest alumni network of any business school.
Career services
Financial Times 2021
Kelley School of Business alumni