This list of the Best Catholic Online MBA Programs features private schools rooted in the Catholic faith. Students raised in the Catholic faith are often view their values system as an integral part of their identity. These vibrant online and hybrid MBA programs emphasize ethical business principles within their curriculum and ethos. While most universities separate business and religion, the business schools in this ranking demonstrate to students that the two can work hand-in-hand together.
The Best Catholic Online MBA Programs
Attending a Catholic university has many benefits, but some students may not live near a Catholic higher education institution. Luckily, all of the Best Catholic Online MBA programs in this ranking offered virtual formats. This makes it convenient for students regardless of their physical location. The Catholic Online MBA programs in this list tend to provide smaller class sizes than other universities. This allows for students to become well acquainted with their peers and professors even through online platforms. A significant component for many graduate students is expanding their professional network. By enrolling in a top Catholic Online MBA program, students are more likely to share similar values with their colleagues. Most of the coursework for these programs are completed asynchronously. However, there are often opportunities for students to engage with their peers in person if they wish to through immersion experiences and residencies.
Methodology
We found the Best Catholic Online MBA Programs by combining the results of three of the most respected Online MBA, MBA, and university ranking systems. Combining these three rankings gives a comprehensive overview of an Online MBA’s reputation. All ranking scores were averaged and put on a 100-point scale to reveal their Online MBA Coach Score. We hope that this list helps you find the program that is right for you.
Summary of Top 10 Catholic Online MBA Programs
| Rank | School | Program | Accreditation | Length | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Santa Clara University – Leavey School of Business | Online MBA | AACSB | 2 years, 70 units | $1,277 per unit |
| 2. | St. John’s University – Peter J. Tobin College of Business | Online MBA | AACSB | 36 credits | $1,485 per credit |
| 3. | University of San Diego – Knauss School of Business | FLEX MBA | AACSB | 20-24 months, 30-44 credits | 1,595 per unit, $70,180 total |
| 4. | University of Dayton – School of Business | MBA Online | AACSB | 18-24 months | $1,460 per credit hour |
| 5. | Xavier University – Williams College of Business | Online MBA | AACSB | 1.5-3 years, 39-45 credit hours | $919 per credit hour |
| 6. | Saint Joseph’s University – Erivan K. Haub School of Business | Online MBA | AACSB | 1-2.5 years, 36 credits | $1,192 per credit |
| 7. | Villanova University – School of Business | Professional MBA | AACSB | 18 months – 2 years | $1,263 per credit |
| 8. | Marquette University – Graduate School of Management | Online MBA | AACSB | 31-42 credits | $1,360 per credit, $42,840-$57,120 total |
| 9. | Loyola University Maryland – Sellinger School of Business | The Professional’s MBA | AACSB | 39 credits | $1,115 per credit |
| 10. | University of Scranton – Arthur J. Kania School of Management | Online MBA | AACSB | 2 years, 36-48 credits | $965 per credit |
1 | Santa Clara University
Leavey School of Business
Santa Clara University is amongst the best Catholic universities for graduate students pursuing an online Master of Business Administration. Leavey School of Business has a long-standing distinguished reputation within the business community and was one of the first schools to earn elite AACSB accreditation. This prestigious online MBA carries a high level of clout. The online MBA ranks 9th nationally by The Princeton Review and 15th by Forbes. Additionally, U.S. News and World Report ranks the Online Marketing MBA Program 10th and the Online Finance MBA Program 12th in the nation.
Expert faculty mentor students and help them establish connections within Silicon Valley. One of the core courses students will take is Doing Business in the Silicon Valley. Other courses include Marketing is Everything and Challenges in Leading and Managing Strategic Change. Students may customize their degree with a concentration in Data Science and Business Analytics, Leading Innovative Organizations, Marketing, or Finance. Graduates fare well, with 96% reporting employment within their desired industry and an average of $167,800 mid-career.
OMBA Coach Score: 60.85
2 | St. John’s University
Peter J. Tobin College of Business
St. John’s University offers a choice online Master of Business Administration for Catholic students through the Peter J. Tobin College of Business. The AACSB accredits Tobin CoB, and Fortune Magazine ranked this first-rate online MBA program 18th in the nation for 2022. This versatile, entrepreneurial program offers nine dynamic concentrations: Business Analytics, Enterprise Risk Management, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Finance, Interdisciplinary Business, Management, Marketing, Risk and Financial Advisory, and Risk Management. Students can elect to enroll in asynchronous or synchronous courses and may even take classes on campus.
The robust curriculum is 36-credit hours and prepares students to become savvy business leaders ready to tackle 21st-century business dilemmas with innovative solutions. Students can build their network and gain experience by consulting for companies such as KPMG and the National Grid. They may also participate in optional Global Destination Courses, which consist of trips to international business sites in Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, England, and Italy.
OMBA Coach Score: 45.13
3 | University of San Diego
Knauss School of Business
The University of San Diego offers many flexible opportunities geared towards Catholic students, including the Hybrid Master of Business Administration. This part-time program is available through the AACSB-accredited Knauss School of Business. This convenient degree launches in January with a one-week on-campus orientation. Beyond this, students meet in person once a month and complete the remaining coursework online. If students prefer to keep their weekends open, they may enroll in weekday evening courses instead.
After completing their first semester, they may transition into the Evening Part-Time MBA program. Weekend residencies are highly immersive and feature engaging, collaborative projects. Students can also distinguish their resume with international consulting projects for BMW in Munich or Nike in Shanghai and choose from over 15 short-term study abroad trips. Working professionals entering this program have an average of seven years of business experience and may be eligible to waive specific core courses. Six distinct specializations are available: Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Organizational Leadership, Marketing, and Supply Chain Management.
OMBA Coach Score: 36.51
4 | University of Dayton
School of Business Administration
Catholic students can accelerate their careers by earning an online Master of Business Administration from the University of Dayton’s School of Business Administration. Fortune ranked this top-tier Catholic business school among the Best Online MBA Programs in 2021. This AACSB-accredited degree places emphasis on ethical leadership principles and transforms students into servant leaders.
Students who recently received an undergraduate degree in business may fast-track their graduate studies with a One-year MBA. Those with relevant business work experience may complete the Accelerated MBA. This program can be completed in 15-18 months. The online Foundational MBA is available for career-changers with limited business experience. This degree consists of 36-45 credit hours. It can typically be completed in 18-24 months. Students may strengthen their resume by selecting a concentration in either Business Analytics or Marketing. Students must attend two immersion experiences. These real-world business opportunities include career workshops, leadership panels, and networking events.
OMBA Coach Score: 36.17
5 | Xavier University
Williams College of Business
The Williams College of Business at Xavier University stands out for featuring an online Master of Business Administration that has won numerous awards. This highly reputable program ranks 1st in the state of Ohio by U.S. News and World Report and within the Top 50 Online MBA Programs in America by the Princeton Review. This academically rigorous program consists of 39-45 credit hours and can be completed in one-and-a-half to three years.
Core courses cover a broad range of business topics, including accounting, business law, economics, finance, marketing, and operation analysis. Students will take an international business course or attend a global immersion trip. Electives allow students to pursue their career interests. Before graduation, students will complete a Global Strategic Thinking Capstone course. This course will enable students to analyze cases, demonstrate problem-solving skills, and enhance their presentation skills. Classes are offered in condensed eight-week sessions, allowing multiple start dates throughout the year.
OMBA Coach Score: 35.78
6 | Saint Joseph’s University
Erivan K. Haub School of Business
Saint Joseph’s University is a leader in Catholic education. The Erivan K. Haub School of Business dedicates itself to helping students become successful business leaders through its innovative online MBA degree. This unique degree allows students to custom-build a program that works for their future goals. Students will earn three certificates; one in Business Administration and two of their choice. Certificate options include Applied Investment Analysis, Corporate Financial Management, Data Analytics, Data Management, Data Science, Financial Applications in Real Estate, Healthcare Management, Human Resources Management, Leadership, and Marketing.
Due to its cutting-edge approach, this MBA was recognized among the nation’s best Part-time MBA Programs by U.S. News and World Report for 2022 and listed among Fortune Education’s Online MBA Rankings and CEO Magazine’s 2022 Global MBA Rankings. The stackable certificate format allows students to start and stop in between certificates if desired or to work straight through all three. Full-time students typically graduate in one or two years, and part-time students take two years or longer.
OMBA Coach Score: 34.31
7 | Villanova University
School of Business
Students seeking a competitive edge can pursue an online MBA through Villanova University’s highly acclaimed School of Business. This degree is a great fit for working professionals. Students will notice an immediate ROI by directly applying new skills and knowledge from class to the office. U.S. News and World Report recognizes the value of this AACSB-accredited program and deems it 17th amongst Best Online MBA Programs nationally.
The 48-credit hour curriculum consists of three components: functional core courses, VSB pillars, and capstones. The four pillars include Information Technology as a Strategic Lever, Ethical Business Practices, Management for Innovation and Creativity, and Global Political Economy. Students can also acquire specialized leadership skills in Analytics, Finance, International Business, Marketing, or Strategic Management. Hands-on components are also embedded into the program. These exciting opportunities including the Leadership Challenge residency, the Social Enterprise Consulting Practicum, and an optional week-long international immersion. These experiences provide valuable industry connections and exceptional credentials for your resume.
OMBA Coach Score: 30.21
8 | Marquette University
Graduate School of Management
Aspiring business professionals can take their careers to the next level with an online Master of Business Administration from Marquette University’s Graduate School of Management. This convenient program is ideal for busy professionals, because it can be completed 100% online in as few as 24 months without ever stepping foot on campus.
The curriculum has been designed to prioritize highly-sought skills such as corporate social responsibility, ethical business practices, risk management, and supply chain management. A sampling of the core courses includes Leading Innovation and Creativity, Leadership Coaching and Development, and a required Strategic Management Capstone. Electives can be applied towards a concentration in Accounting and Finance, Human Resources, Information Systems, Leadership and Management, or Marketing. Unique elective options include Corporate Advocacy, FinTech, Human Capital Strategy, and Character-driven Leadership. All students are assigned a designated Student Success Coordinator. This coordinator will provide personalized assistance from enrollment to graduation, including advising and online technical support.
OMBA Coach Score: 28.39
9 | Loyola University Maryland
Sellinger School of Business
The Sellinger School of Business at Loyola University Maryland features a premier, part-time Professional MBA. Sellinger SoB ranks amongst the Best Business Schools by the Princeton Review in 2021, and further shines with its AACSB accreditation. The PMBA consists of 39-credit hours and can be completed in a blended or fully online format. Classes are offered in eight-week sessions, so students can concentrate on mastering specific content before moving on.
Students can gain expertise in one of the following industry focus areas: Data Analytics and Digital Technologies, Finance, Interdisciplinary Business, Management, or Marketing. An optional international Chile study tour and domestic Disney tour can give students an exciting opportunity to apply marketing and management concepts to real-world corporations and meet alumni. The Sellinger Graduate Mentor Program is another outstanding opportunity for students to connect with alumni and work towards their professional goals. Career Services hosts the Professional Webinar Lunch Series offering advice from industry experts on salary negotiation and leadership qualities.
OMBA Coach Score: 26.42
10 | University of Scranton
Arthur J. Kania School of Management
Arthur J. Kania School of Management at the University of Scranton offers an online MBA, which is consistently in the spotlight by leading publications. Scranton ranks amongst the Top 10 Regional Universities in the North for 28 years by U.S. News and World Report. The Kania School has been named among “Best Business Schools” by the Princeton Review for 16 consecutive years.
The online MBA is AACSB-accredited and features eight career-focused specializations. Students can choose from Accounting, Business Analytics, Enterprise Resource Planning, Finance, Healthcare Management, Human Resources Management, International Business, or Operations Management. The Flex MBA option allows students to design a program that meets their precise career aspirations. The curriculum ranges from 36-48 credit hours and takes an average of two years to complete. Career services ensures students graduate with a polished resume, interview-worthy skills, and connections to hiring managers within your chosen industry.
OMBA Coach Score: 25.79
11 | Creighton University
Heider College of Business
Heider College of Business at Creighton University helps busy professionals take the next step in their career journey with a MBA degree that is offered entirely online. Students can complete this 33-credit hour AACSB-accredited program in just over two years. It is also nationally ranked by U.S. News and World Report for Best Online MBA Programs for 2022. Additionally, Heider MBA graduates self-report median salaries 20% higher than MBA graduates from other universities.
Core courses and functional core courses follow a values-based leadership approach. A few courses that comprise this challenging curriculum include Business Policy and Managerial Action, Economic Analysis for Financial Managers, and Leadership and Organizational Behavior. Students can prepare for a successful career with concentration options in Accounting, Business Intelligence and Analytics, Finance, Financial Psychology and Behavioral Finance, Leadership, or Personal Financial Planning. Five convenient entry points are offered for online students so that you can join the network of Creighton MBA alum employed with Mutual of Omaha, T.D. Ameritrade, and Union Pacific.
OMBA Coach Score: 24.57
12 | University of Saint Thomas
Opus College of Business
Opus College of Business at the University of St. Thomas allows students to earn their part-time Master of Business Administration degree in a format that works with their lifestyle. Students can personalize their degree with over 50 elective options, add graduate certificates, and set their pace. The curriculum is highly customizable with 22.5-credit hours of required courses and 22.5-credit hours of electives.
Prepare for an innovative educational experience with core courses such as Competitive Strategy, Entrepreneurial Thinking, and Marketing Frameworks. Popular elective choices include Brand Management, Emerging Technology in Business, and Innovation and Corporate Entrepreneurship. There are 10 specialized graduate certificates available, such as Global Business, Omnichannel Strategy, and Strategic Risk and Responsibility. Students who need to gain specific skills immediately can choose to earn the certificate at the beginning of their degree and save core courses for later. Degree completion can take between two and seven years, depending on your other commitments.
OMBA Coach Score: 23.57
13 | Loyola University Chicago
Quinlan School of Business
The Quinlan School of Business at Loyola University Chicago offers a convenient, part-time Master of Business Administration. This degree is described as flexible, advantageous, and transformative. These qualities attract busy working professionals looking for a work/life/school balance.
Three distinct MBA options are offered to align with the student’s current career level. The Next Generation MBA is for emerging business leaders who are still relatively early in their careers. Students will learn to analyze data to make critical decisions and become effective communicators.
The Baumhart Scholars MBA is designed for mid-level professionals who equally want to grow in their careers and impact the world. This degree follows a curriculum that emphasizes leadership and social impact.
The Executive MBA is for seasoned professionals who want to distinguish themselves and advance to more senior roles within their corporation. These MBA programs have met the high standards established by the AACSB. Additionally, U.S. News and World Report ranks the part-time MBA amongst the top three in Chicago.
OMBA Coach Score: 23.16
14 | Seattle University
Albers School of Business and Economics
The Albers School of Business and Economics at Seattle University offers the part-time flexibility busy professionals need through the Online Master of Business Administration program. This degree holds AACSB accreditation, the gold standard in business accreditation. This 54-credit-hour program runs on a 10-week quarter system, and students can graduate within 2.5 years.
Students will hone their leadership skills through courses such as Building Internal and Community Stakeholder Relationships, Managerial Accounting for Organizational Leadership, and Professional and Interpersonal Communications. Students will also take Career Planning and Development, which will allow them to focus on their career search and future goals. All courses include a unique leadership challenge component, focusing on the four “LEAD” elements: Listen and Learn, Empathize and Examine, Assess and Analyze, and Design and Deliver. Students will attend one team-building residency retreat during their first quarter of enrollment. Short study abroad opportunities are available to destinations like China, Europe, and Peru.
OMBA Coach Score: 22.86
15 | John Carroll University
Boler College of Business
John Carroll University’s Boler College of Business features a high-impact online MBA degree. The 33-45 credit hour curriculum emphasizes socially responsible leadership through encouraging four specific MBA mindsets: ethical, systems, innovation, and dynamic. The business core includes accounting, economics, management, marketing, and supply chain management classes. Students will also have six elective credits to expand their knowledge in areas related to their career goals. Elective options are endless, with the opportunity to take classes from any of the U.S. or Global Jesuit MBA partner universities. During the last semester, students must complete a Corporate Strategic Management capstone course.
Full-time students can complete this online MBA at an accelerated pace of one year, and part-time students generally graduate in two to three years. Bloomberg ranks Boler CoB graduates as #1 in the category of work readiness. Boler alumni include more than 700 company CEOs and presidents for leading corporations such as Enterprise Holdings, the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, and KPMG.
OMBA Coach Score: 20.04
16 | Iona College
LaPenta School of Business
The LaPenta School of Business at Iona College offers an online Master of Business Administration that is equally beneficial for students seeking career advancement and career changers. Students can complete the 36-credit hour curriculum in as few as 12-18 months by enrolling in three courses per trimester.
Students will become ethical leaders through the core courses while honing in on their strategic thinking, written and oral communication, and mastering business content. Core courses comprise 24-credit hours, and the remaining 12-credit hours can be applied towards a concentration or certificate. Concentration options include Accounting, Business Analytics, Financial Management, Information Systems, Management, and Marketing. Professional certifications include Business Continuity and Risk Management, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, or Health Care Management. MBA students can also earn elective credits and gain valuable work experience by completing an internship within their concentration area. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and four annual start dates are offered.
OMBA Coach Score: 17.75
17 (Tied) | Fairfield University
Charles F. Dolan School of Business
The Charles F. Dolan School of Business at Fairfield University offers an online Analytics MBA for professionals serious about propelling their careers forward. Students can fast track their way to success within 12-24 months with this vigorous MBA designed for those aspiring to reach executive roles. U.S. News and World Report ranked this MBA 21st in the nation for graduate analytics business programs in 2022.
The courses for this data-centric degree were created by an advisory board of more than 20 leading experts in their field. This board ensures students receive the knowledge most needed to climb the ladder in today’s competitive business world. This team of business advisors makes themselves readily available to students through networking events. The co-op program places students in paid roles with Fortune 500 companies where students lead teams, are mentored, and build impressive resumes. These opportunities lead to excellent placement rates. Within 90 days of graduation, 99% of the 2020 Dolan MBA graduates were employed.
OMBA Coach Score: 17.63
17 (Tied) | St. Edward’s University
Bill Munday School of Business
Leaders can remain competitive by earning an online MBA from St. Edward’s University’s Bill Munday School of Business. Students can complete this 36-credit-hour career-relevant degree at an accelerated pace in as few as 12 months or work at a more manageable pace of 24 months. Courses combine live online sessions with asynchronous components, giving students ample opportunities to build their professional network and the convenience of maintaining their full-time jobs.
Some of the core courses students will take include Innovation and Disruption Management, Marketing Management in a Digital Environment, and Social Responsibility of Business. A management consulting/global project capstone wraps up this MBA program. During this capstone, students have the opportunity to work with local and international organizations. Students can select a concentration in Corporate Governance, Digital Management, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Global Business, Operations and Supply Chain Management, or Small Business Management. Stackable certificates are offered in Management, Business Finance, and Operation Logistics.
OMBA Coach Score: 17.63
19 | Manhattan College
O’Malley School of Business
The O’Malley School of Business at Manhattan College offers a STEM-designated online Master of Business that adds value to business careers and other prominent sectors. This degree can be completed in as few as 18 months by enrolling in four classes per semester or on a part-time basis in two years. The accelerated option features classes in intensive seven-week sessions and only spans one calendar year.
Students will gain a solid grasp of essential business skills through core courses such as Decision Modeling with Spreadsheets, Marketing Strategy and the Consumer Experience, and Professional Ethics. Three concentrations enhance this AACSB-accredited degree: Business Analytics, Finance and Economics, and Organizations, Markets, and Sustainability. At the end of this program, students will complete the Leadership and Organizational Behavior capstone. Students can build their resumes with an internship or conduct scholarly research in conjunction with faculty members. Graduates assume leadership careers with Gemini, Morgan Stanley, and Redwood Realty Advisors.
OMBA Coach Score: 17.04
20 | Saint Mary’s College of California
School of Economics and Business Administration
Saint Mary’s College of California produces global leaders through its Flex Online Master of Business Administration program. This exemplary degree is offered through the AACSB-accredited School of Economics and Business Administration. Emerging business leaders will learn the skills needed to accelerate their careers in as few as 12 months.
Students benefit from the same high-quality curriculum and professors as the on-campus program. Some of the classes that students will take include Confident Communication, Law and Entrepreneurship, Leadership and Management Dynamics, and Strategic Thinking for Organizational Success. Personalized career coaches and leadership consultants offer guidance to students in navigating their career search. Some of the unique events include career workshops, executive speaker series, and speed mentoring sessions. Past workshop topics have included Executive Compensation Negotiation Strategies, Next Level Networking, Powerful Persuasion, and Skills that Set High-Performance Leaders Apart. Saint Mary’s hosts most of these events via Zoom, so online students can easily participate.
OMBA Coach Score: 16.10
21 | Duquesne University
Palumbo-Donahue School of Business
The Palumbo-Donahue School of Business at Duquesne University delivers an online Professional Master of Business Administration. This AACSB-accredited degree ranks amongst the region’s top three online MBA programs by U.S. News and World Report. Experiential learning projects with industry leaders an integral to the curriculum, so students can practice the theories learned in class lectures.
The curriculum consists of 36-credit hours, and students have the option to add a STEM designation for an additional 10.5 credit hours. Students who pursue the STEM designation will choose to earn a certificate in Analytics and Information Management or Supply Chain Management. An exciting core course students take is Executive Insights. A new C-suite executive shares their career experience each week in this innovative class. Students will also complete a Strategy and Implementation capstone project, which requires attendance at multiple virtual events. Graduates have further pursued employment in top managerial roles with BNY Mellon, Deloitte, Ernst & Young, KPMG, and PricewaterhouseCoopers.
OMBA Coach Score: 15.66
22 | Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
School of Business and Technology
Students seeking to complete their online Master of Business Administration in record time can attend the Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. The AACSB-accredited School of Business and Technology offers the Accelerated Online MBA, a 12 month month program with 30-credit hours. This accelerated format is even offered to students without a business background. This degree ranks #1 for online MBAs in Minnesota by U.S. News and World Report.
The curriculum allows ultimate flexibility for students to choose what they want to study. Students will complete three special topics courses: Benefits and Compensation, Marketing Research Strategies, and Monetary Policy and Central Banks. Those wishing to customize their MBA with a certificate must complete 36-credit hours. Students have a choice of ten certificates: Business Analytics, Cybersecurity Management, Cybersecurity Technology, Finance, Healthcare Administration, Healthcare Analytics, Human Resource Management, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, International Human Resource Management, Nonprofit Management, and Project Management. A capstone project will also be completed at a domestic or international business firm as a culminating component of the MBA.
OMBA Coach Score: 14.22
23 | University of St. Thomas
Cameron School of Business
Students can gain a significant career edge by earning an online Master of Business Administration from the Cameron School of Business at the University of St. Thomas. Full-time students can complete this program in one year, and part-time students trying to balance work and school can graduate in two years. This MBA offers unparalleled networking opportunities, from the annual business symposium featuring top Houston corporations to Career Day with expert panels.
The curriculum is perfect for students from all backgrounds, with fundamentals such as business communications, economics, finance, management, and marketing, followed by more advanced electives. Elective options include Managing and Working in Virtual Teams, Twenty-first Century Leadership Principles, and Women in Management. Students can hone in on their career goals by pursuing a concentration in Accounting, Economics, Ethics, Finance, Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship, International Business, Management Information Systems, and Marketing. Practicums and internships also offer students an opportunity to gain on-the-job experience.
OMBA Coach Score: 13.69
24 | University of Dallas
Satish & Yasmin Gupta College of Business
The Satish and Yasmin Gupta College of Business at the University of Dallas positions students to accomplish their career goals through the online Master of Business Administration. This degree is offered entirely online or in a hybrid format, with students choosing which classes they prefer to take on campus. Classes are offered in six-week and 12-week sessions. The 30-credit hour program spans one to two years.
Students can earn digital badges by completing a cluster of courses within a specific business field. Professionals can apply these badges immediately to LinkedIn profiles as they continue the other required credentials to complete the remainder of their MBA. Another way to customize the MBA is with a concentration in Accounting, Business Analytics, Cybersecurity, Finance, Healthcare Analytics, Marketing, Strategic Leadership, Supply Chain Management, and Technology Management. The final component is the Capstone Consulting Experience. Students have completed projects at more than 500 companies, including expanding investments, organizational audits, and creating application tracking software.
OMBA Coach Score: 13.34
25 | Rockhurst University
Helzberg School of Management
The Helzberg School of Management at Rockhurst University helps students gain upward career mobility through the online Master of Business Administration. This 30-credit hour MBA holds AACSB accreditation, a prestigious credential held by less than five percent of business schools globally. The students that pursue the accelerated track, can complete the program in as little as one year, or part-time students can complete this program in about two years. Classes are offered in an expedited eight-week format.
The program launches with the Compass Learning Community course, which gives students the tools to succeed through their MBA and introduces them to their cohort. Students can focus on their interests with a concentration in Business Intelligence, Data Science, Finance, Health Care Management, Management, Nonprofit Leadership, and Organizational Leadership. The professional coaching program provides free one-on-one career coaching for all MBA students. An advisor also works with students to secure internships and full-time employment opportunities.
OMBA Coach Score: 12.87
Best Catholic Online MBA Programs
Many great Catholic higher education institutions feature Online MBA programs for students seeking career advancement opportunities. Catholic universities with Online MBA programs offer rising business professionals a solid management foundation rooted in traditional Jesuit principles. These programs offer many advantages. They typically include smaller student-to-faculty ratios, scholarships for Catholic students, and community-like cohorts. These schools are inclusive for students from different faiths, so Catholic students will be able to create a well-rounded network with colleagues who uphold similar belief systems and those from diverse backgrounds as well.
Catholic Online MBA programs offer a holistic education – academically, spiritually, and socially. The curriculum may focus on servant-based leadership practices and help students integrate their faith into their careers. Students can apply their business knowledge from their online MBA to serve in leadership roles in a variety of organizations in the public and private sectors.
What is a Catholic University Online MBA Program?
Catholic universities offer Online MBA programs that provide rigorous preparation for students seeking to advance to important managerial roles. These programs feature a strong business core curriculum with accounting, business analytics, economics, finance, marketing, and strategic management classes. The curriculum may also emphasize ethical leadership principles and servant-based leadership. Servant leaders commit to inspiring personal and professional growth amongst the employees they supervise. They also practice empathy and compassion while striving to build positive work morale through being authentic and vulnerable. Many online programs feature optional in-person components, such as residencies, short international trips, and internship opportunities. These are especially beneficial for students needing to boost their resumes and broaden their professional network.
What should I look for in a Catholic Online MBA Program?
Accreditation
AACSB accreditation is the top business school accreditation. It is only awarded to less than five percent of business schools worldwide. This accreditation signifies that students have completed a challenging, relevant curriculum.
Cost
Tuition at private schools can be costly, but there are ways to get more bang for your buck. Some Catholic universities charge in-state tuition rates for students enrolled in online MBA programs, which can help students save significantly. Students should also apply for financial aid and all eligible scholarships.
Program Length
Most students enrolled in online MBA programs are employed full-time, juggling work and school simultaneously. Online MBAs typically allow students to choose their pace. Students who enroll part-time may take two to three years to graduate but can take longer if needed. Full-time students generally graduate in about two years. Accelerated programs are also available, which means that students can complete their courses in as few as one year. It is important to note that accelerated programs need a significant time commitment and may be difficult for students who work full-time.
Asynchronous v. Synchronous
Online MBAs come in a variety of formats so that students can customize the classes to their learning preferences. Asynchronous courses do not need students to log in at a particular time and are well-suited for self-motivated students. These classes are an excellent option for professionals who frequently travel or balance hectic work schedules. Synchronous courses feature live class sessions delivered via an online platform. These are particularly beneficial for students seeking to build their professional network since this format offers more interaction with peers and the professor.
Experiential Learning Opportunities
Think about how important it is to you to gain hands-on experience. If you are a seasoned professional and seeking the MBA credential to add to your resume, this component may not be a priority. But, if you are early in your career, consulting projects with major firms, international immersions, internships, and networking events may be the key to advancing your career. Some programs feature several options for experiential learning opportunities. Others focus almost solely on online courses.
Concentrations
Earning a concentration can give prospective job candidates a significant advantage. Concentrations show students have specialized knowledge. Some online MBA programs allow students to earn between one and three professional certificates. Certificates may even be added to your resume before completing your MBA, enhancing your credentials in as few as one semester. Concentrations and certificates can also increase earning potential. Popular options include Entrepreneurship, Finance, Human Resources, Sports Management, and Supply Chain Management.
What jobs can I get with an Online MBA?
Careers are on the rise for MBA graduates. According to the BLS, management, finance, and sales careers are the most lucrative positions with high projected growth.
Management Analysts
Management analyst roles are anticipated to grow 14% between 2020 and 2030. These analysts help companies seeking ways to run more efficiently by maximizing profits and reducing costs. Many work as consultants and may travel to work with several client organizations. The 2021 median salary for management analysts was an impressive $93,000.
Financial Managers
Financial managers are also in high demand, with projected job growth of 17% between 2020 and 2030. The median annual pay for financial managers in 2021 was $131,710. Financial managers are responsible for analyzing financial reports and advising senior executives on financial decisions. They also supervise employees who work in the finance department.
Sales Managers
Sales managers supervise all facets of a company’s sales team. This includes creating strategies to increase sales quotas, train sales representatives, and analyze sales reports. This high-paying managerial role earned a median income of $127,490 in 2021.
Next Steps
If you are still considering whether earning an online MBA is the right choice, attend free online MBA information sessions. Most universities offer these as webinars. They allow for students to gain insight into the intensity level of the program, tuition, curriculum, concentration options, and career support. Once you’ve decided to pursue an online MBA, inquire what materials are needed to process your application. Then it’s time to begin gathering these documents. A completed application portfolio may consist of official transcripts, a resume, official test scores or a waiver, letters of recommendation, and an application fee. Some programs feature many entry points, so determine a reasonable timeline for gathering all application materials and ensure you submit all documents on time. Good luck!
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