In this article, we profile the top 30 most affordable MBA in international business online programs.
An MBA in international business online degree program adds a global twist to the traditional master’s in business administration (MBA). In addition to foundational business courses, such as accounting, finance, and strategic management, students enrolled in an MBA in international business online program apply business knowledge to a globalized economy. Today, online MBA in international business programs are offered by some of the nation’s accredited and reputable institutions.
Top 30 Most Affordable MBA in International Business Online Programs Methodology
We looked at approximately 90 colleges and universities listed by the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator that offered at least one MBA in international business online degree program. We narrowed our original pool of 90 schools by applying the following criteria: Online MBA degree offerings with a concentration or specialization in international business, global business, or closely related discipline, school or program rankings from at least one major publication such as U.S. News and World Report, and affordable graduate tuition and fees less than $35,000 per year. We listed the top 30 programs according to raw affordability.
Below is our list of the most affordable MBA in international business online programs.
#30 – University of Delaware
Online MBA in International Business
Newark, Delaware
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $33,678
The University of Delaware offers an MBA in international business online through its Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics. The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and can be completed in just 16 months. Core curriculum includes classes such as economic analysis for business policy, ethical issues in domestic and global business environments, financial reporting and analysis, and fundamentals of analytics. Students within the International Business track will take courses such as globalization and business, international marketing management, leadership in international business cultures, and managing the global enterprise. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of Delaware #89 in national universities.
#29 – Lehigh University
Online MBA in International Business
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $27,130
Lehigh University offers an online MBA in international business through its College of Business and Economics. The program is designed to be completed part-time, making it an excellent option for working professionals to pursue graduate education while maintaining their careers. Courses include global business European perspective, global marketing strategies, and international financial management. Students also have the opportunity to participate in a global immersion program in countries such as Greece, Argentina, China, and the United Kingdom. U.S. News and World Report ranks Lehigh University in several categories for 2019 including #27 in best value schools and #53 in best national universities.
#28 – Northeastern University
Online MBA in International Management
Boston, Massachusetts
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $24,309
Northeastern University’s D’Amore-McKim School of Business offers an MBA in international business online that includes 13 core classes and five electives. The MBA program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International, which is the most rigorous accrediting association throughout the world. Online students have the opportunity to complete an on-campus residency over the course of a week, which equals an elective. Students also have the opportunity to study abroad in locations such as China, Russia, Greece, and Chile. U.S. News and World report ranks Northeastern University #44 in national universities.
#27 – Florida Institute of Technology
Online MBA in International Business
Melbourne, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $22,588
Florida Institute of Technology offers one of the most affordable online international business programs focusing on working adults. The program can be completed entirely online with no campus visitation requirement. The curriculum integrates case studies, which help students learn how course concepts apply to solve real-world problems. Florida Tech is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The Nathan M. Bisk College of Business is accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE). Courses include Financial management policy, global accounting and financial analysis, global marketing management, and international business. U.S. News and World Report ranks Florida Tech #177 in national universities.
#26 – Nova Southeastern University
Online MBA in International Business
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,620
Nova Southeastern University offers one of the most affordable online business programs of its kind focusing on international business. The program is available entirely online with no residency requirements. The program has five start times throughout the year and can be completed in just 21 months. International courses include foundations of global business, globalization and emerging markets, import and export principles and practices, and international finance. The program is ideal for working individuals seeking to increase their earning potential through the completion of a graduate degree. U.S. News and World Report ranks Nova Southeastern University in multiple categories including #191 in national universities and #215 in best online MBA programs.
#25 – Benedictine University
Online MBA in International Business
Lisle, Illinois
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,986
Benedictine University offers an online MBA in international business designed for working professionals to complete their graduate degree on their time. The program gives students two options to complete their coursework including one course at a time or two courses per semester. The international business track provides students with the knowledge and skills to understand and compete in a global economy through the completion of courses such as international economics and finance, international marketing, and multicultural management. Each student has access to a personal academic advisor and Benedictine’s virtual career center with services such as interview and resume preparation and job openings. U.S. News and World report ranks Benedictine University #221 in national universities.
#24 – Southern New Hampshire University
Online MBA in International Business
Manchester, New Hampshire
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,810
Southern New Hampshire University’s MBA in international business online provides students with a broad-based curriculum as well as specialized coursework to hone their knowledge and skills within the context of a global economy. Students can choose from concentrations in international business, international supply chain management or international finance depending on their personal interests and career trajectory. Courses may include international market strategy, managing international trade and finance, and multinational corporate environment. Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education. The MBA program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. U.S. News and World report ranks Southern New Hampshire #112 in regional universities North.
#23 – Dallas Baptist University
Online MBA in International Business
Dallas, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,262
Dallas Baptist offers one of the most affordable online international business programs in the higher education space. The program is entirely online making it an excellent choice for working individuals seeking a rigorous yet flexible curriculum. The 36-credit program includes courses such as creative problem solving marketing decisions, leadership in management, management information systems, quantitative analysis for managers, and strategic management decisions. Candidates need to submit transcripts from all institutions attended along with a completed graduate school application. The GRE or GMAT are not required as part of the application process. U.S. News and World Report ranks Dallas Baptist #221 in national universities.
#22 – Northcentral University
Online MBA in International Business
San Diego, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,917
Northcentral University offers an online MBA in international business for working professionals seeking to increase their career capacity with a graduate degree. The curriculum provides a solid foundation in business concepts along with specialized courses delivering advanced topics within the context of globalization and internationalization. The 30-credit program is divided into 10 courses and can be completed in just 16 months. Topics covered include international law, strategic management, economics, and international marketing. Because each course is offered entirely online, students are able to complete coursework as their schedule allows. Applicants are not required to submit GRE or GMAT scores as part of the admission process. U.S. News and World Report ranks Northcentral #215 in best online MBA programs.
#21 – Azusa Pacific University
Online MBA in International Business
Azusa, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,362
Azusa Pacific University provides students with an online MBA in international finance. The program is delivered entirely online and is designed for individuals working full-time or those who live in an area without a local college or university. All content is delivered asynchronously, which means there is no designated time students are required to be online. International business courses include global business economics, global field study, global strategic management, and international marketing. Students taking the international business concentration are required to take one study abroad course. U.S. News and World Report ranks Azusa Pacific University #205 in national universities for its 2019 cohort.
#20 – National University
Online MBA in International Business
La Jolla, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,480
National University offers one of the most affordable online international business programs for candidates seeking an MBA to increase their earning potential. The program format allows students to take multiple courses per semester but never more than one course at a time. Classes last just one month and focus on one subject at a time to ensure in-depth coverage and student mastery. Applicants do not need to submit GRE or GMAT scores as part of the application process. Classes are offered through the National University School of Business and Management and may include business strategy and policy, ethics and classical theories, marketing management, organizational management and leadership, and statistics for business.
#19 – Colorado Technical University
Online MBA in International Finance
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,766
Colorado Technical University offers one of the top affordable online business programs focusing on international business. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs and is designed to align with SHRM global leadership competencies. Students are expected to enter the program with foundational business knowledge, which includes an undergraduate degree in business or a related discipline. Students without a bachelor’s in business will be required to pass three foundational courses covering subjects such as statistics, economics, finance, marketing, and more. Students with a GMAT score above 500 may have this requirement waived. U.S. News and World Report ranks Colorado Tech #187 in best online MBA programs.
#18 – Webster University
Online MBA in International Relations
Saint Louis, Missouri
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,500
Administered through the George Herbert Walker School of Business and Technology, Webster University offers an online MBA in international business designed for working professionals. The program is designed to give students a broad-based business perspective in areas such as finance, economics, marketing, accounting, and management. Additionally, students drill down into complex topics in international relations through coursework such as international politics, introduction to international relations, and research methods and perspectives in international relations. U.S. News and World Report ranks Webster University in multiple categories including #215 in best online MBA programs and #23 in regional universities Midwest for its 2019 cohort.
#17 – Tiffin University
Online MBA in International Business
Tiffin, Ohio
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,000
Tiffin University offers an MBA in international business online that prepares students to navigate the complex world of international business and the global economy. Graduates are prepared for career opportunities both domestically and abroad and are experts in understanding business within a global context. Many graduates go on to work in multinational firms in countries all over the world. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Courses may include global marketing management, international financial management, international trade, and strategic analysis in global industry. U.S. News and World Report ranks Tiffin University #128 in regional universities Midwest.
#16 – Lynn University
Online MBA in International Business
Boca Raton, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,840
Lynn University offers one of the most affordable online business programs dedicated to teaching and training students to navigate and solve complex business problems within the international business community. The degree is delivered entirely online, making it an excellent option for working professionals. Students learn advanced concepts and skills across the business spectrum, all within the context of international business and global economics. Courses cover subjects including international marketing, global management, and international law. Courses include focused country and regional concepts, international financial markets, and international trade and investment. U.S. News and World Report ranks Lynn University #100 in regional universities South.
#15 – Washington State University
Online MBA in International Business
Pullman, Washington
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,802
Through its Carson School of Business, Washington State University offers one of the most affordable accredited online international business programs for students seeking to increase their earnings potential through the completion of an online graduate degree. Courses include data analysis for managers, foundations of business law, foundations in marketing, foundations in operations management, and introduction to financial and managerial accounting. As part of the international business curriculum, students have the opportunity to travel abroad to Helsinki and Tallin to get an inside look into the business operations and cultural norms of multiple international organizations. U.S. News and World Report ranks Washington State #13 in best online MBA programs.
#13 – Kettering University
Online MBA in Global Leadership
Flint, Michigan
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,460
Kettering University offers an online MBA in international business focusing on global leadership. Students learn to lead organizations and teams within multinational contexts. The program can be finished in as little as 18 months and as long as six years. The Kettering MBA is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Business Schools and Programs and does not require the GMAT or GRE to apply. Featured courses include financial management, international business, leadership, and strategic management. All courses are delivered asynchronously, which allows students to complete the coursework as their schedule allows. U.S. News and World Report ranks Kettering University #175 in best online MBA programs.
#12 – Brandman University
Online MBA in International Business
Irvine, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,080
Brandman University offers an online MBA in international business for professionals seeking career advancement through an accredited graduate business program that affords flexibility and convenience through online learning. Students learn essential business concepts and skills through a practitioner-based curriculum that blends theory and practical job skills needed to succeed in a fast-paced business environment. Courses may include business process analysis and innovation, cultural dimensions of global leadership, data analysis for decision making, and globalization and diversity. U.S. News and World Report ranks Brandman University in multiple rankings for 2019 including #175 in best online MBA programs and #6 in most innovative schools.
#11 – University of Scranton
Online MBA in International Business
Scranton, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,630
The University of Scranton offers an online MBA in international business that teaches students to deal with the realities and complexities of a global economy. As more organizations move into international markets, the Scranton MBA adeptly addresses through its curriculum and learning experiences how to solve complex problems and integrate strategy on a global level. Admission requirements include an application, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and resume. Candidates are not required to submit GRE or GMAT test scores. Courses include advanced taxation and regulation, financial reporting and research, international accounting, and occupational fraud and abuse. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of Scranton #109 in best online MBA programs.
#10 – SUNY Empire State College
Online MBA in International Business
Saratoga Springs, New York
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,625
The State University of New York Empire State College offers one of the top value online international business programs designed for early and mid-career professionals seeking to advance through the completion of an online graduate degree. The 36-credit program can be completed in as few as 20 months in a full-time capacity. Part-time students can finish in as little as 27 months. The program requires foundational knowledge in accounting, economics, and statistics. Students can meet these criteria through completion of undergraduate courses or can build these classes into the degree, which adds up to nine credits. International business courses include economics for global managers, global e-commerce strategies, global leadership competencies, and international financial management.
#9 – St. Thomas University
Online MBA in International Business
Miami Gardens, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,596
Administered by the Gus Machado School of Business, St. Thomas University offers an MBA in international business online. Compared to most institutions that offer a concentration consisting of a few international business courses, the St. Thomas degree requires students complete 15 semester credits in international business classes such as global marketing concepts and strategies, international business law, international finance and banking, regional business economics environment, and more. In addition to online coursework, students are afforded the opportunity to study abroad, applying concepts and skills they learn through course content. U.S. News and World Report ranks St. Thomas University #85 in regional universities South.
#8 – Campbellsville University
Online MBA in International Business
Campbellsville, Kentucky
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,380
Campbellsville University offers one of the most affordable online business programs among Christian colleges and universities designed for individuals seeking career and skill advancement through graduate coursework from an accredited institution and program. The Campbellsville program is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education and features courses such as global policies and concepts, international marketing, and managing global companies. Admission requirements include three reference letters, college transcripts, GMAT/GRE scores, 2.5 minimum GPA, resume, and essay. The Institution is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. U.S. News and World Report ranks Campbellsville #153 in best online MBA programs.
#7 – University of North Dakota
Online MBA in International Business
Grand Forks, North Dakota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,697
The University of North Dakota provides working professionals with one of the most affordable online business programs. The 43-credit program can be completed in as little as two years. The program is accredited by the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Courses may include business intelligence, econometrics, organizational leadership and ethics, quantitative analysis for management decisions, and strategic supply chain management. The international business concentration teaches students advanced business concepts and skills as they relate to international business and the global economy. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of North Dakota #31 in best online MBA programs.
#6 – Liberty University
Online MBA in International Business
Lynchburg, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,333
Liberty University offers an online MBA with a concentration in international business. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Admission requirements include 3.0 minimum GPA, transcripts, undergraduate business prerequisites, and proof of English proficiency for international applicants. GMAT or GRE scores are not required. Courses may include accounting for decision making, business research methods, contemporary issues in human resource management, environment of international business, and policy and strategy in global competition. The 45-credit program can be completed in approximately two years. U.S. News and World Report ranks Liberty University #230 in national universities and #143 in best online MBA programs.
#5 – University of Nebraska
Online MBA in International Business
Lincoln, Nebraska
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,588
The University of Nebraska offers one of the best online business programs for flexibility and affordability. The 48-credit program offers advanced foundational skills across the business spectrum as well as coursework in international business focusing on the development of global business and management competencies. The program can be completed in as little as 1.5 years with most students finishing in three years. The program allows students up to ten years to complete. International business courses include directed reading and research, international finance, leadership in a global context, and marketing and globalization. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of Nebraska #26 in best online MBA programs.
#4 – University of North Carolina
Online MBA in International Business
Wilmington, North Carolina
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,367
University of North Carolina Wilmington offers an MBA in international business online that can be acquired 100% through distance learning. The 36-credit degree can be earned in as little as one year and is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The program is housed within the Cameron School of Business. To apply for admission, candidates should meet the following requirements: two years professional work experience, resume, two letters of recommendation, minimum 3.0 UGPA, transcripts, and minimum 500 GMAT or GRE equivalent. Test scores can be waived. Courses may include global strategy and management, international human resource management, operations management, and strategic management. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of North Carolina at Wilmington #15 in regional universities South.
#3 – University of Texas
Online MBA in International Trade
Edinburg, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,889
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley offers one of the most affordable online business programs with a concentration in international business. The program helps students develop business acumen within the context of an increasingly global environment that requires complex problem solving and innovative strategy. Courses may include accounting and financial management, information systems for managers, international commerce law, and production and operations management. Admission requires candidates have a minimum 3.0 GPA, GMAT or GRE scores (waivers available), official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, and a written essay. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of Texas Rio Grande Valley #230 in national universities.
#2 – Florida Atlantic University
Online MBA in International Business
Boca Raton, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,657
Florida Atlantic University offers an MBA in international business online for working professionals seeking to advance their current careers or change fields. The program welcomes applicants from all academic backgrounds unlike many other programs that require a bachelor’s degree in a business-related discipline. Candidates must have a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree, 3.0 GPA, and minimum 500 GMAT (153q/144v GRE). The program requires successful completion of 31-43 credits including courses in advanced analysis and application of accounting data, business law and applied ethics, management information technology and systems, and marketing functions and processes. U.S. News and World Report ranks Florida Atlantic #51 in best online MBA programs.
#1 – Texas A & M International University
Online MBA in International Business
Laredo, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,045
Texas A&M International offers an MBA in international business online for professionals seeking the convenience and flexibility of an accredited MBA program that allows students to maintain their professional and personal commitments. The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Core classes may include business research methods, financial statement analysis, and managerial economics. International business courses include global environment of business, international logistics, and international management. U.S. News and World Report ranks Texas A&M International in multiple categories for the 2019 cohort including #82 in best online MBA and #59 in regional universities West.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with an MBA in international business online degree?
Graduates with an online MBA degree in international business have a wide variety of job prospects given the valuable skills and knowledge they acquire through their program. Given the increase in globalization and organizations that conduct business with foreign partners, individuals go on to careers in international finance, project management, international consulting, human resources, accounting, supply chain management, and general management.
Like a traditional online MBA, international business MBA students learn foundational concepts and skills across a wide business spectrum. Courses generally focus on accounting, finance, economics, marketing, and management. These skills enable them to navigate related occupational duties within the complex international business environment. Graduates often work abroad for US-based firms or find occupations in the United States where they work with either internal or external stakeholders in various locations around the world.
International finance managers are typically charged with overseeing the financial planning of the organization or department and often work with top executives to help maintain the fiscal health and profitability of the firm. They also ensure transactions and investments are compliant with international laws and associated financial laws.
Supply chain managers work with vendors and suppliers as well as internal employees on the safe and timely procurement and delivery of materials and goods. Supply chain managers spend time tracking shipments and ensuring all customs requirements are met and in compliance.
How long does it take to earn an MBA in international business online degree?
Most online international MBA programs take approximately two years to complete while attending full-time. Full-time enrollment for graduate school is different from undergraduate as it requires students to take a minimum of six semester credits. Some programs are structured so students take multiple courses at the same time while others allow students to go full-time while taking one class at a time. As with the majority of online programs, completion time is predicated on enrollment level. Students able to take more courses will obviously be able to complete sooner, generally in two years or less. Accelerated programs for students with an undergraduate degree in business can be completed in as little as 12 months.
While most students want to finish as quickly as possible, not all students can or want to attend full-time. Nearly all online international MBA programs allow students to attend part-time by taking one class per term. In addition to minimum completion times, programs also have maximum completion times designed for part-time students who take longer to finish. Maximum completion times range from five years all the way up to ten years. These maximum timeframes even allow students to take off an occasional semester without having to reapply.
How much money can I earn with an MBA in international business online degree?
Using data from salary analytics firm PayScale and the United States Government Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), earnings for individuals with an online international MBA are well above the mean salary for all other occupations. According to PayScale, individuals working in the financial services sector earn a mean annual salary of $94,000, with consultants making approximately $91,000 per year. Compare that with the average occupational salary of $38,000, and it is apparent that an international MBA pays excellent career dividends.
Because an MBA in international business is such a diverse degree with highly sought after skills, graduates have several career options in addition to those mentioned above. Because of globalization and the expansion of the internet, graduates can procure jobs in a wide array of industries including healthcare, banking, aerospace, engineering, and government. According to BLS data, salaries in the aerospace engineering sector earn the highest average salary at $107,501 followed closely by healthcare workers at $101,442. Banking and research/advisory services earn on average $84,000 annually.
Occupational growth is expected to be strong as the BLS estimates 630,000 jobs in the business and finance sector will be added from 2014-2024. And due to economic conditions, professionals with a background in global economics and international relations will be well suited for many of the occupations expected to come to fruition.
How is an MBA in international business online degree different from a traditional MBA?
Online MBA programs in international business have both similarities and differences compared to their traditional MBA counterparts. Both programs teach advanced theory and skills across a variety of business related functions such as management, finance, accounting, and marketing.
In addition to learning fundamental business principles needed in an international business environment, students engage with curriculum addressing a variety of cultural, political, social, and economic contexts that impact international business. Moreover, many programs provide students with an opportunity to study abroad, giving them the chance to utilize course content in a real-world situation. It should be noted that not all programs offer an international experience.
International business MBA programs offer specialization courses focusing on these business functions within the context of a global economy where there is an international component to the job. Additionally, international MBA programs offer specific courses that address salient factors in international business. For example, students may take courses such as international marketing, international supply chain logistics, international accounting, and multinational corporate environment. Because conducting international business is so complex, it is necessary for students to understand the unique challenges and opportunities in terms of business regulation and cultural norms that arise from crossing international boundaries.
What are the admission requirements for MBA in international business online degree programs?
While admission requirements to international business MBA programs vary, the majority of programs require similar application components and applicant attributes. Nearly all international programs require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Additionally, candidates are typically required to submit a professional resume, at least two professional recommendation letters, transcripts, and standardized test scores. International students are required to prove English language proficiency by submitting TOEFL scores.
Top tier programs will require students to have an undergraduate degree in a business related discipline such as management information systems, economics, finance, accounting, marketing, human resources, and general business. Lower-ranked programs may allow students to have a bachelor’s degree in any discipline provided they take business foundation courses often embedded into the graduate curriculum.
When it comes to online international business MBA admissions, test scores are typically required among the top tier programs. Lower ranked programs may require GRE or GMAT scores but often supply waivers for students with professional work experience or an undergraduate degree in a business related discipline. Minimum test scores at top-ranked programs are generally at or above the 50th percentile for both the GRE and GMAT. In addition to test scores, selective programs are also designed for mid-career professionals with at least two years of management experience.
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