Online MBA Degree Programs | Master of Business Administration | WGU

Online MBA Degree Programs | Master of Business Administration | WGU
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Master of Business Administration
MBA Degree
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OVERVIEW
An Online MBA That Delivers Real-World Leadership Skills
Built with insight from industry leaders, WGU’s MBA equips you with the strategies, skills, and confidence employers expect from leaders today. Every course is designed around the demands of business today—finance, operations, HR, marketing, and technology—so you graduate prepared to make an immediate impact.
Recognized by
The Wall Street Journal
as one of the top return-on-investment MBA programs, WGU helps you gain the cross-functional business expertise to stay agile, lead teams, and drive results in a changing marketplace
Graduates can finish within
12 months*
WGU lets you set a schedule so you can finish your MBA in just one year. You are in control of the schedule and timing for your online MBA program.
*WGU Internal Data
Flexible Schedule
Tuition per six-month term is
$4,805
See what your online MBA will cost at our university. Tuition charged per term—rather than per credit—helps students control the ultimate cost of their degrees. Finish faster, pay less!
Cost & Time
Average salary increase
$14,025*
Master of Business Administration graduates report an average salary increase of $14,025 after completing their WGU degree.
*WGU Internal Data
Career Outlook
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COURSES
MBA Courses
Program consists of 11 courses
At WGU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical—all to help you show that you know your stuff.
Program Guide
This program is composed of the following business and management courses. You will typically complete them one at a time as you progress through your program, working with your Program Mentor each term to build your personalized degree plan. You’ll work through each course as quickly as you can master the material. As soon as you’re ready, you’ll pass the assessment, complete the course, and move on. You can finish as many courses as you're able each term at no additional cost—making it possible to graduate faster, for less.
One-year MBA students can complete all coursework in two WGU terms. Your Program Mentor will help you set a schedule that enables you to finish your program quickly.
Learn more about the one-year MBA program at WGU.
To ensure WGU graduates gain cutting-edge knowledge and skills sought by today’s employers, our Master of Business Administration was developed with significant input from global business leaders who serve on our Business Program Council.
About WGU's Business Program Council
Management
Managing Organizations and Leading People
This course covers principles of effective management and leadership that maximize organizational performance. The following topics are included: the role and functions of a manager, analysis of personal leadership styles, approaches to self-awareness and self-assessment, and application of foundational leadership and management skills.
Managing Human Capital
This course focuses on strategies and tools that managers use to maximize employee contribution and create organizational excellence. You will learn talent management strategies to motivate and develop employees as well as best practices to manage performance for added value.
Management Communication
This course prepares students for the communication challenges in organizations. Topics examined include theories and strategies of communication, persuasion, conflict management, and ethics that enhance communication to various audiences.
Operations Management
This course focuses on the strategic importance of operations management to overall performance. This course also emphasizes principles of supply chain management relevant to a variety of business operations ranging from manufacturing goods to retail services. You will examine the various planning, control, and decision-making tools and techniques of the operations function.
Economics
Global Economics for Managers
This course examines how economic tools, techniques, and indicators can be used for solving organizational problems related to competitiveness, productivity, and growth. You will explore the management implications of a variety of economic concepts and effective strategies to make decisions within a global context.
Marketing
Marketing
Marketing Fundamentals introduces students to principles of the marketing environment, social media, consumer behavior, marketing research, and market segmentation. Students will also explore marketing strategies that are related to products and services, distribution channels, promotions, sales, and pricing.
Accounting
Accounting for Decision Makers
This course provides you with the accounting knowledge and skills to assess and manage a business. Topics include the accounting cycle, financial statements, taxes, and budgeting. This course will improve students’ ability to understand reports and use accounting information to plan and make sound business decisions.
Leadership
Ethical Leadership
This course examines the ethical issues and dilemmas managers face. This course provides a framework for analysis of management-related ethical issues and decision-making action required for satisfactory resolution of these issues.
Finance
Financial Management
This course covers practical approaches to analysis and decision-making in the administration of corporate funds, including capital budgeting, working capital management, and cost of capital. Topics include financial planning, management of working capital, analysis of investment opportunities, sources of long-term financing, government regulations, and global influences. This course will improve students’ ability to interpret financial statements and manage corporate finances.
Strategy
Data-Driven Decision Making
This course presents critical problem-solving methodologies, including field research and data collection methods that enhance organizational performance. Topics include quantitative analysis, statistical and quality tools. You will improve your ability to use data to make informed decisions.
Capstone
MBA Capstone
Welcome to the MBA Capstone course, the final course in your degree program. This course coalesces the competencies developed over the course of your degree program and looks ahead to your contributions to your professional field. You will demonstrate and hone your management skills by launching a new business from the ground up as an entrepreneur in a business simulation. You will also develop your personal brand and strategically plan your professional career path.
11 Courses
Program consists of 11 courses
At WGU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical—all to help you show that you know your stuff.
Program Guide
Capstone Project
Special requirements for this program
At the end of your program, you will complete a capstone project that represents the culmination of all your hard work—a project that allows you to take what you’ve learned and apply it to a real-world situation, proposing a solution to an actual issue you face in your place of business.
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Skills For Your Résumé
As part of this program, you will develop a range of valuable skills that employers are looking for.
Management:
Identified and determined the resources required to effectively support an organization or process, ensuring optimal functionality and efficiency.
Operations:
Developed comprehensive systems with standard operating procedures (SOPs) for distinct parts of a business, promoting consistency, compliance, and operational excellence.
Communication:
Leveraged appropriate communication techniques to effectively persuade and guide outcomes.
Data Analysis:
Applied analytical and logical reasoning skills to uncover valuable information crucial for decision-making processes.
Written Communication:
Addressed internal and external stakeholders using the most suitable written communication strategy for each audience, fostering effective communication and engagement.
Business Development:
Developed strategic plans for acquiring new business and expanding existing business in collaboration with the business development team.
“Because of WGU's competency-based program, I didn't have to get into things that I already knew. Instead I was able to use that for the things that were more challenging for me to learn.”
—Alvyn Joy Halili
MBA
WGU vs. Traditional Universities
Compare the Difference
Traditional Universities
TUITION STRUCTURE
Per credit hour
Flat rate per 6-month term
SUPPORT
Schedule and wait days or even weeks to meet with one of many counselors
Simply email or call to connect with your designated Program Mentor who supports you from day one
EXAMS
Scheduled time
Whenever you feel ready
SCHEDULE
Professor led lectures at a certain time and place
Courses available anytime, from anywhere
TIME TO FINISH
Approximately 2 years, minimal acceleration options
As quickly as you can master the material, can finish programs in 1 year
Apply Now
Traditional Universities
TUITION STRUCTURE
Per credit hour
TUITION STRUCTURE
Flat rate per 6-month term
SUPPORT
Schedule and wait days or even weeks to meet with one of many counselors
SUPPORT
Simply email or call to connect with your designated Program Mentor who supports you from day one
EXAMS
Scheduled time
EXAMS
Whenever you feel ready
SCHEDULE
Professor led lectures at a certain time and place
SCHEDULE
Courses available anytime, from anywhere
TIME TO FINISH
Approximately 2 years, minimal acceleration options
TIME TO FINISH
As quickly as you can master the material, can finish programs in 1 year
Apply Now
Why WGU?
Earning Potential
After graduation, WGU MBA master's degree graduates report earning $14,025 more per year*. Are you ready to make more money?
*WGU Internal Data
PAYING FOR SCHOOL
Entirely Online
Competency-based education means you can move as quickly through your degree as you can master the material. You don't have to log in to classes at a certain time—you are truly in the driver's seat of your education.
ADMISSIONS INFO
Entirely Online
The Master of Business Administration degree at WGU is 100% online, which means it works wherever you are. You can do your coursework at night after working at your full-time job, on weekends, while you're traveling the world or on vacation—it's entirely up to you.
A FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE
Accredited, Respected, Recognized™
One important measure of a degree’s value is the reputation of the university where it was earned. When employers, industry leaders, and academic experts hold your alma mater in high esteem, you reap the benefits of that respect. WGU is a pioneer in reinventing higher education for the 21st century, and the quality of this program has been recognized by ACBSP.
COST & TIME
Affordable Online Degree Programs
By charging per term rather than per credit—and empowering students to accelerate through material they know well or learn quickly—WGU helps students control the ultimate cost of their degrees. The faster you complete your program, the less you pay for your degree.
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Tuition Calculator
Pay less by completing your program faster
TOTAL COST:
YEARS
Cost Breakdown
Tuition
4,805
E-Books & Resources Fee
200
TOTAL (per 6-month term)
6-month terms
Total Cost
A College Degree Within Reach
There is help available to make paying for school possible for you:
The average student loan debt of WGU graduates in 2022 (among those who borrowed) was less than half* the national average.
Responsible Borrowing Initiative
Most WGU students qualify for financial aid, and WGU is approved for federal financial aid and U.S. veterans benefits.
Financial Aid
Many scholarship opportunities are available. Find out what you might be eligible for.
Scholarships
WGU undergraduate students have approximately half the debt at graduation compared to the national average, according to the Institute for College Access and Success (2022).
FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE
You Control Where, When, and How Fast You Learn and Graduate
Schedules are tight and often unpredictable for busy professionals. That’s why we offer a flexible, personalized approach to how education should be. No interruptions to your work and family obligations. No rigid class schedules. No barriers to earning your degree on your own terms. Just a solid, career-focused online MBA program that meshes seamlessly with your current lifestyle.
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"I was fortunate enough to finish my WGU degree program in six months because I was able to show what I knew and not have to sit in needless classes. I was able to showcase my strengths and still have plenty of time to work on my weaknesses, which really helped me finish my degree. I couldn't have done this anywhere else.”
—David Burks
MBA
CAREER OUTLOOK
An Industry-Aligned MBA Degree That Prepares You to Take the Lead
Goldman Sachs. Google. MGM. Microsoft. Apple. These giant organizations are changing the world, and they’re doing it with WGU MBA graduates.  Our alumni stand out from the competition and make real contributions to top organizations.
An online Master of Business Administration degree from WGU could help elevate your career, too. Get an MBA online that prepares you to lead cross-functional teams with the agility to adapt to the ever-changing world of business.
WGU’s online MBA degree is designed for business professionals who want to graduate with career-ready skills. Hone the management and strategy skills to take charge in finance, operations, marketing, HR, and technology. Become the business leader your organization needs.
MORE ABOUT CAREERS
Return on Your Investment
Many WGU graduates may see an increase in income post-graduation
Average income increase in annual salary vs. pre-enrollment salary from all degrees. Source:
2024 Harris Poll
of 1,655 WGU graduates.
Survey was sent to a representative sample of WGU graduates from all colleges. Respondents received at least one WGU degree since 2017.
6%
Employment of top executives is projected to
grow 6% through 2033
—U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
MBAs from WGU Are Leading Teams and Businesses in Diverse Industries
Problem-solving leaders are required in every industry, and strategic thinking is necessary at every successful company. If you're ready to broaden your business knowledge and advance your career, WGU's MBA program online can prepare you to be an effective leader and produce successful results wherever you go. Your business management career starts here!
Our 5,300-plus MBA grads have great jobs and satisfying careers.
Top Jobs
Owner
President and CEO
Vice president
Executive director
Chief strategic officer
Top Industries
Private companies
Healthcare organizations
Nonprofit organizations
Government
Colleges and universities
Top Employers
American Airlines
Yahoo!
Edward Jones
Intermountain Healthcare
Mayo Clinic
WGU Grads Hold Positions With Top Employers
Explore More
ADMISSIONS & TRANSFERS
MBA Admission Requirements
To be considered for this program, you must:
Submit all transcripts verifying receipt of your bachelor’s degree from a recognized, accredited institution.
NOTE: You do not need to take the GRE or GMAT to be admitted to this program.
Learn why we don't require these tests.
GENERAL ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Transfer Credits
TRANSFER INFORMATION
Get Your Enrollment Checklist
Download your step-by-step guide to enrollment.
VIEW CHECKLIST
Get Your Questions Answered
Talk to an WGU Enrollment Counselor.
CONTACT AN ENROLLMENT COUNSELOR
FINISH FASTER
The One-Year MBA
WGU's competency-based model allows you to move through courses as quickly as you master the material. Whether you learn fast, study hard, or have past work experience, as soon as you pass an assessment, you can move on and potentially graduate faster.
WGU's one-year* MBA program prepares you with all the knowledge, skills, and experience you need. You’ll get the same respected degree even faster, and for less. Complete your Master's in Business Administration program in only 12 months for just $9,610.
This online Master of Business Administration degree gives you the flexibility you need to earn your degree on your terms. Most students work full-time while completing their master's in business administration—something you and your employer will appreciate. No set login times or class meetings. Study early in the morning, late at night, or even on the road—you are in the driver's seat of your education.
* Program can be completed in as little as 12 months. Pricing is based on 12-month completion of the program. Students that do not complete in 12 months and need longer to complete the program will need to pay for additional terms.
Graduate in 12 Months
Frequently Asked Questions about MBA Programs
General MBA FAQs
Online MBA FAQs
MBA stands for Master’s of Business Administration. An MBA is a graduate-level business management degree that teaches you leadership skills for the modern business world. Those with an MBA often stand out among candidates for upper management positions.
Both terms are commonly used, but the technical correct usage is Master of Business Administration, or a Master's in Business Administration.
There are many job opportunities with an MBA degree. They include:
Chief executive officer
Executive director
Chief financial officer
Marketing manager
International business development
Chief marketing officer
Sales manager
Operations manager
Human resources manager
An MBA gives you additional skills and training that can help you progress in your career. You'll learn about strategy, communication, management, and leadership that will help you move into larger roles in an organization. An MBA trains you to become a business leader in many different kinds of industries.
In an MBA program you'll have courses in accounting, finance, marketing, strategy, leadership, management, and more.
Yes! An MBA can help you boost your résumé and help you get higher pay, better job opportunities, and more. In fact, WGU MBA graduates earn an average of $16,200 more per year after graduation.
An MBA is a great option for those who want to progress into management or leadership roles in an organization. Whether you want to move to a new company or have upward mobility in your current organization, an MBA can help you be prepared to move up.
An MBA teaches you leadership skills that can help you excel as an executive in a business setting. Earning an MBA can set you apart when you’re looking to advance into a management role within a corporation. The skills you learn in an MBA program may also help you start and manage your own business.
In general, it takes around two years to earn an MBA degree. That said, through a competency-based online MBA program like the one offered at WGU, students may be able to earn their degree more quickly, sometimes in 18 months or less.
The number of years it takes to earn an MBA degree can vary depending on the university.
Traditional university: 2 years
Competency-based MBA program: 1 to 1.5 years
Part-time MBA program: around 3 years
Yes. You can earn an MBA completely online. This unique model enables students to keep their current job while working toward their degree. Competency-based education models and on-demand classes, tests, and assignments make earning a degree online a valid option for busy working professionals or those with limited access to a brick and mortar university.
Yes. With the growing prevalence and availability of online MBA programs, curriculum and acceptance criteria have become more rigorous. As higher education has moved increasingly to online formats, more employers are respecting online MBAs and finding online MBA grads to possess the skills necessary to add value to their business.
Yes. If you earn an MBA from an accredited and reputable university, it will likely be respected by employers. Many online MBA programs have gained enough of a reputation that employers now seek out graduates specifically from certain online programs and universities.
The
best online MBA programs
in terms of ROI include:
Excelsior College; 497% ROI
Western Governors University; 267% ROI
American Public University; 249% ROI
Arizona State University—Skysong; 225% ROI
Capella University; 171% ROI
No. An online MBA is not necessarily easy. While an online MBA may offer more flexibility and accessibility than a typical in-person program, online programs are still competitive and rigorous. Many students, however, find that an online MBA is easier in the sense that it fits more seamlessly into their busy lives, as they can access courses, take exams, and complete projects anywhere they have internet access.
Ready to Start Your WGU Journey?
Apply Now
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