10 Most Affordable AACSB-Accredited Online MBA Programs in Cybersecurity under $22K

Southern Utah University Online MBA in Cybersecurity: Curriculum and Admissions Overview

Curriculum Summary

The online MBA with a Cybersecurity Emphasis at Southern Utah University (SUU) is designed to develop both advanced business management skills and specialized expertise in cybersecurity. The program is 100% online and AACSB-accredited, blending core MBA courses with targeted cybersecurity coursework.

Core Business Courses (24 credit hours):

• Strategic Management (capstone)

• Business policy and strategy

• Managerial accounting and finance

• Marketing management

• Organizational behavior

• Operations management

• Project management

• Leadership and decision-making

Cybersecurity Emphasis (9 credit hours):

• Design, planning, and management of cyber systems

• Risk management scenarios and vulnerability assessment

• Cybersecurity and IT policy

• Physical, personnel, and operational security

• Contingency, redundancy, emergency, and disaster planning

• Legal and regulatory issues in cyber law and investigation

• Governance, risk, and compliance (GRC)

• Network security and infrastructure risk minimization

• Cybercrime investigation fundamentals

Students complete three required cybersecurity courses:

• CSIA 6000

• CSIA 6005

• One additional elective from a set of advanced cybersecurity topics1.

Total Program Requirements:

• 33 credit hours (including 24 core and 9 emphasis credits)

• A 3-credit business foundations course may be required for students without a business background, based on a holistic review of academic and professional experience.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree: From an accredited institution1.

• GPA: Minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.5. Applicants with a GPA below 3.29 are admitted provisionally, which may extend the program duration1.

• Standardized Tests: No GMAT required for admission1.

• Business Foundations: Applicants without sufficient business coursework or experience may be required to complete a 3-credit foundations course before starting core MBA classes1.

• Transcripts: Official transcripts from the highest degree-granting institution are required. SUU offers a Transcript Assist service for most U.S. schools1.

• International Applicants: Must provide a transcript evaluation from an approved third-party service showing U.S. degree equivalency1.

• Work Experience: Not required, but relevant experience may be considered during the holistic review for foundation course waivers1.

Accreditation:
The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)1.

Summary Table

This program prepares graduates for advanced roles such as Director of Information Security, IT Director, Systems Engineer, and Business Analyst, combining business leadership with cyber defense expertise1.

University of North Georgia Online MBA in Cybersecurity: Curriculum and Admissions Overview

Curriculum Summary

The University of North Georgia’s AACSB-accredited online MBA in Cybersecurity integrates foundational business education with specialized cybersecurity training. The curriculum includes core MBA courses in accounting, finance, marketing, operations, leadership, and management, ensuring graduates possess a strong business acumen. The cybersecurity concentration features advanced coursework in risk management, cyber law, IT policy, network security, cryptography, and cybercrime investigation. This combination prepares students for leadership roles that require both strategic business insight and technical expertise in cybersecurity.

Notable Curriculum Components:

• Core MBA Courses: Accounting, Corporate Finance, Economics, Data Analytics, Leadership, Management, Marketing, Project Management, and Supply Chain Management.

• Cybersecurity Specialization: Courses in risk management, network and systems security, cyber law, vulnerability assessment, cryptography, and cybercrime investigation.

• Flexible Learning: 100% online delivery, with options for full-time or part-time study to accommodate working professionals.

• Applied Learning: Emphasis on practical skills and real-world scenarios, supporting readiness for roles such as Chief Information Security Officer or Cybersecurity Manager.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree: From a regionally accredited institution.

• GPA: Minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.5. Applicants with a GPA below 3.29 may be admitted provisionally.

• Standardized Tests: No GMAT or GRE required for admission.

• Business Foundations: Applicants lacking sufficient business coursework or professional experience may be required to complete foundational business courses.

• Transcripts: Official transcripts from the highest degree-granting institution are required.

• Work Experience: Not required, but relevant experience may strengthen the application or qualify for certain waivers.

Program Highlights

• Tuition: $9,846 for the full program, placing it among the most affordable AACSB-accredited online MBA cybersecurity programs.

• Graduate ROI: 474%, with an average starting salary of $56,500.

• Delivery: Fully online, with multiple annual start dates and flexible scheduling.

Graduates are equipped for high-demand positions in cybersecurity leadership, combining advanced business strategy with technical security expertise.

Citation: https://www.wgu.edu

East Texas A&M University (Texas A&M University–Commerce) Online MBA in Cybersecurity: Curriculum and Admissions Overview

Curriculum Summary

The AACSB-accredited MBA with a minor in Cybersecurity at East Texas A&M University (Texas A&M University–Commerce) is structured to provide a robust foundation in business management while developing advanced skills in cybersecurity. The core MBA curriculum covers essential business areas such as accounting, corporate finance, economics, marketing, management, leadership, data analytics, and project management.

For the cybersecurity minor, students complete at least four specialized courses, including:

• Database Management (BUSA 526)

• Cybersecurity and IT Auditing (BUSA 533)

• Ethical Hacking (BUSA 535)

• Cyber Forensics & Information Security Policy Governance (BUSA 539)

Additional electives in business analytics and IT may be available, allowing students to tailor their expertise to current cybersecurity challenges. The program emphasizes both technical proficiency and strategic leadership, preparing graduates for roles such as Chief Technology Officer, Cybersecurity Manager, and Security Analyst.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree: From a regionally accredited institution.

• GPA: Minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.5 for full admission; applicants with a lower GPA may be considered for provisional admission.

• Standardized Tests: No GMAT or GRE required.

• Business Foundations: Applicants without prior coursework in business may need to complete foundational courses before beginning core MBA classes.

• Transcripts: Official transcripts from the highest degree-granting institution are required.

• Work Experience: Not required, but relevant professional experience may support the application or qualify for certain waivers.

Program Highlights

• Tuition: $10,724 for the full program.

• Graduate ROI: 655%, with an average starting salary of $81,000.

• Delivery: 100% online, with flexible scheduling and multiple annual start dates for working professionals.

Graduates of this program are prepared to lead organizational cybersecurity initiatives and bridge the gap between business strategy and information security.

Citation: https://www.tamuc.edu/programs/business-administration-mba-with-minor/

University of West Florida Online MBA in Cybersecurity Management: Curriculum and Admissions Overview

Curriculum Summary

The AACSB-accredited MBA with an emphasis in Cybersecurity Management at the University of West Florida (UWF) is designed to equip students with both advanced business leadership skills and specialized expertise in cybersecurity management. The curriculum consists of 36 credit hours delivered fully online in an accelerated format, allowing for multiple start dates throughout the year.

Notable Core Business Courses:

• Accounting

• Corporate Finance

• Marketing

• Economics

• Data Analytics

• Supply Chain Management

• Strategic Management

• Leadership and Organizational Behavior

Specialized Cybersecurity Courses:
Students complete three of the following four cybersecurity courses (CIS 5775 is required for all):

• CIS 5775 Cybersecurity Principles (required)

• CIS 5786 Advanced Cybersecurity Management

• CIS 5796 Cybersecurity Risk Analysis

• CIS 5806 Cybersecurity Law and Ethics

This blend of coursework develops the ability to analyze complex business problems, design and implement security management solutions, and communicate technical security concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. The program emphasizes risk assessment, regulatory compliance, and the development of robust information security strategies.

Admissions Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree: From an accredited institution.

• GPA: Minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0.

• Standardized Tests: No GMAT required.

• Professional Résumé: Demonstrating employment history with increasing levels of responsibility.

• Essay Responses: Assessing graduate-level motivation and writing ability.

• Business Academic Preparation: Evidence of prior business coursework; applicants without sufficient background may be required to complete foundational courses.

• Official Transcripts: From all previously attended institutions.

Work Experience:
Not explicitly required, but professional experience is evaluated as part of the holistic admissions process.

Program Highlights

• Tuition: $12,460 for the full program.

• Graduate ROI: 359%, with an average starting salary of $57,200.

• Delivery: 100% online, with flexible scheduling and multiple start dates per year.

Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in cybersecurity management, such as Chief Information Security Officer, Cybersecurity Manager, and Security Analyst, combining business acumen with advanced information security expertise.

1. https://uwf.edu/programs/lbjcob/master-of-business-administration-mba/

University of South Carolina Aiken Online MBA in Cybersecurity Management: Curriculum and Admissions Overview

Curriculum Summary

The AACSB-accredited online MBA in Cybersecurity Management at USC Aiken is designed to prepare graduates for leadership roles in protecting organizations from cyberthreats. The curriculum consists of 30 credit hours, structured as follows:

• Core Business Courses (18 credits):

  • Strategic Management

  • Accounting

  • Corporate Finance

  • Marketing

  • Operations Management

  • Leadership and Organizational Behavior

• Cybersecurity Specialization (6 credits):

  • Courses focus on cyber risk management, IT policy, cyber law, and breach response. Students learn to identify, assess, and manage cyberthreats, communicate effectively with both technical teams and senior leadership, and leverage business intelligence tools for strategic decision-making.

• MBA Electives (6 credits):

  • Students select from a range of electives to further tailor their expertise in areas such as data analytics, information systems, or additional cybersecurity topics.

The program is delivered 100% online and can be completed in as few as 10 months on an accelerated schedule. No foundation courses are required, and students have access to preparatory resources at no additional cost.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree: From a U.S. regionally accredited institution or international equivalent.

• GPA:

  • 3.0 or higher: No GMAT required.

  • 2.5–2.99: Conditional admission available. Must maintain a 3.0 GPA in the first 12 credit hours or submit GMAT/GRE scores for holistic review.

• Standardized Tests: GMAT/GRE only required for applicants with a GPA below 3.0 who do not wish to pursue conditional admission.

• Transcripts: Official transcripts required.

• Work Experience: Not required.

• Application: Online application form.

Program Highlights

• Tuition: $14,096 for the full program.

• Graduate ROI: 300%, with an average starting salary of $56,400.

• Flexible Start Dates: Multiple annual start dates for working professionals.

• Career Outcomes: Prepares graduates for roles such as Information Security Analyst, Program Manager, Computer Systems Manager, and more.

Citations:
https://online.usca.edu/degrees/business/mba/cybersecurity-management/

University of Illinois at Springfield Online MBA in Cybersecurity Management: Curriculum and Admissions Overview

Curriculum Summary

The AACSB-accredited Online MBA in Cybersecurity Management at the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) is designed for technology leaders seeking expertise in both business administration and cybersecurity. The 30-credit program includes:

• Core Business Courses (21 credits):

  • Managerial Finance

  • Management Accounting

  • Marketing Management

  • Business Strategy

  • Organizational Behavior

• Cybersecurity Management Specialization (9 credits):

  • Electives in cybersecurity concepts, models, architectures, protocols, and standards for digital network design and management

  • Technical and non-technical aspects of information security, including risk management, security planning, and disaster recovery

  • Advanced cryptography, digital forensics, firewall prevention, intrusion detection, compliance, and governance

The curriculum emphasizes both the strategic and operational aspects of cybersecurity, preparing graduates to protect information systems, develop security management models, and lead organizational cybersecurity initiatives. UIS is recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (NCAE-C) by the NSA and DHS.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree: From a regionally accredited college or university

• GPA:

  • 2.5+ GPA for business majors

  • 2.5+ GPA for non-business majors, plus completion of gateway prerequisites (BUS 501 and ACC 505)

  • Master’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution also accepted

• Standardized Tests: No GMAT required

• Transcripts: All official transcripts

• Work Experience: Not required

Three Graduate Outcomes (Cybersecurity Focus)

1. Ability to protect organizational information systems against cyberattacks, data breaches, and emerging threats using advanced cybersecurity management principles and tools

2. Proficiency in developing, implementing, and maintaining security management models, risk assessments, and disaster recovery plans

3. Advanced knowledge in cryptography, digital forensics, and compliance, enabling effective leadership of cybersecurity strategy, projects, and personnel

Three Potential Roles for Graduates

• Information Security Analyst

• Cybersecurity Manager

• Chief Information Security Officer

Citation: https://onlinecbm.uis.edu/degrees/business/mba/cybersecurity-management-program/

University of South Florida Online MBA in Cybersecurity: Curriculum and Admissions Overview

Curriculum Summary

The University of South Florida’s AACSB-accredited Online MBA with a concentration in Cybersecurity prepares graduates for leadership roles in information security management and business continuity. The curriculum blends core business fundamentals with technical and managerial cybersecurity coursework.

Core Business Courses:

• Foundation and core MBA courses (14 credit hours), including accounting, finance, marketing, management, and analytics.

• MBA Capstone for Analytics, Compliance & Cybersecurity (GEB 6898), integrating business and cybersecurity concepts through project work and applied cases.

Cybersecurity Concentration (12 credit hours):

• ISM 6328: Basics of Information Security and Risk Management

• ISM 6577: Decision Processes for Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery

• One of the following:

  • ISM 6225: Distributed Information Systems

  • EEL 6787: Data Networks, Systems, and Security

• At least one elective (with advisor approval) from:

  • ISM 6217: Database Administration

  • BUL 5842: Risk Management and Legal Compliance

  • CIS 4364: Cryptology and Information Security

The program emphasizes both technical cybersecurity skills and strategic decision-making, preparing graduates for roles such as Information Security Manager, Cybersecurity Analyst, and Business Continuity Director1.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree: From a regionally accredited institution or foreign equivalent3.

• GPA: Competitive applicants typically have an undergraduate GPA of 3.3 or higher, though the minimum requirement is not explicitly stated for the MBA. For related programs, a 3.0 GPA is standard23.

• Standardized Tests: GMAT or GRE required unless eligible for a waiver (waivers may be granted based on academic achievement, relevant work experience, or advanced degrees)3.

• Work Experience: Several years of quality professional experience is common among competitive applicants, but not strictly required3.

• Additional Materials: Online application and fee, statement of purpose, resume, and three reference letters (at least one professional)3.

• International Applicants: Must meet English language proficiency requirements and submit appropriate documentation3.

Citation:
https://www.usf.edu/business/graduate/mba-online/conc-cybersecurity.aspx

Missouri University of Science and Technology Online MBA in Cybersecurity: Curriculum and Admissions Overview

Curriculum Summary

Missouri University of Science and Technology’s AACSB-accredited MBA program offers a concentration in cybersecurity that blends core business leadership with advanced information assurance and risk management. The curriculum includes foundational MBA coursework in areas such as accounting, corporate finance, data analytics, marketing, management, and operations. The cybersecurity concentration features courses in privacy and information security, human and organizational factors in cybersecurity, and electives like enterprise application development and software security, mobile technology for business, and data science with Python. This structure equips graduates to address both strategic business challenges and evolving cybersecurity threats.

Notable Core and Cybersecurity Courses:

• Core MBA: Accounting, Corporate Finance, Data Analytics, Marketing, Management, Operations Management, Supply Chain

• Cybersecurity: Privacy and Information Security, Human and Organizational Factors in Cybersecurity, plus electives such as Enterprise Application Development and Software Security, Fundamentals of Mobile Technology for Business, Internet Computing and IoT, Advanced Digital Commerce and IoT Analytics, and Data Science and Machine Learning with Python

Admissions Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree: From an accredited institution

• GPA: Minimum 3.0 on a 4.0 scale

• Standardized Tests: GMAT or GRE required

• Application Materials: Completed online application, two written essays, one timed written essay, two video essays, updated resume, and two letters of recommendation

• Transcripts: Academic transcripts from all previous institutions

• English Proficiency: For international applicants, minimum TOEFL 80, IELTS 6.5, PTE 58, or Duolingo 115

• Work Experience: Not required, but a professional resume is part of the application

Program Highlights

• Tuition: $16,488 for the full program

• Graduate ROI: 340%, with an average starting salary of $72,600

• Delivery: 100% online, with flexible scheduling for working professionals

Graduates are prepared for roles such as Cybersecurity Manager, Information Security Analyst, and Business Continuity Director, combining business acumen with technical cybersecurity expertise.

Citation:
https://distance.mst.edu/distance-programs/distance-graduate-certificates/cyber-security-information-assurance-management/

University of North Carolina Wilmington Online MBA in Cybersecurity: Curriculum and Admissions Overview

Curriculum Summary

The AACSB-accredited online MBA with a Specialization in Cybersecurity at UNCW is designed to equip students with both advanced business leadership skills and specialized knowledge in cybersecurity management. The 36-credit curriculum consists of 30 credit hours of MBA core courses and 6 credit hours of cybersecurity electives, all delivered in accelerated 7-week terms for maximum flexibility.

Notable Core Business Courses:

• Business Law

• Accounting

• Information Analysis and Management

• Business Analytics

• Operations Management

• Economics

• Marketing

• Strategic Management

• Leadership, Problem-Solving, Team Building, and Conflict Resolution

Specialized Cybersecurity Courses:

• Security Analytics

• Risk Management

• Incident Response

• Compliance and Regulatory Issues

• Cybersecurity Strategy and Program Management

• Governance and International Cybersecurity Challenges

Students learn to recognize, prevent, and respond to cyber threats, integrate cybersecurity strategies across business functions, and communicate security policies organization-wide. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing graduates for roles such as Information Security Analyst, Risk Management Specialist, Information Assurance Manager, and Chief Information Security Officer.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree: From a regionally accredited institution (or equivalent international degree).

• GPA: Cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0. Applicants with a GPA below 3.0 must demonstrate significant professional advancement since graduation.

• Standardized Tests: GMAT/GRE is waived through 2025 for all applicants.

• Work Experience: Minimum two years of full-time, post-baccalaureate professional work experience required.

• Application Materials:

  • Online application

  • Resume and cover letter (statement of interest)

  • Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended

  • Two recommendations (waived for applicants with 5+ years of progressive managerial/military experience, a 3.2+ GPA, or an advanced degree with quantitative coursework)

• English Proficiency (for non-native speakers): TOEFL iBT 79, IELTS 6.5, or Duolingo English Test 105 (unless degree earned from a U.S. institution).

No prerequisites or foundation courses are required, and the program offers rolling admissions with multiple start dates per year.

Citation:
https://onlinedegree.uncw.edu/programs/business/mba/cybersecurity/

Boise State University Online MBA + Cyber Emphasis: Curriculum and Admissions Overview

Curriculum Summary

Boise State University’s AACSB-accredited Online MBA with a Cyber Emphasis is a 49-credit, fully online program that integrates core business leadership with advanced cybersecurity management. The curriculum features:

• Core Business Courses:

  • Accounting

  • Corporate Finance

  • Marketing

  • Data Analytics

  • Operations and Supply Chain Management

  • Strategic Management

  • Leadership and Organizational Behavior

• Cyber Emphasis Courses:

  • Systems thinking, lateral thinking, and resilience as they relate to cybersecurity

  • Cyber operations platforms and open-source tools

  • Risk assessment and cyber threat response

  • Design of resilient systems and networks

  • Cybersecurity strategy and compliance

Courses are delivered in accelerated seven-week terms, with six start dates per year, allowing students to complete the program in as few as 12 months while working full-time1.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree: From a regionally accredited institution

• GPA: 3.0 or higher preferred; applicants with 2.75–2.99 may be considered for provisional admission

• Standardized Tests: GMAT/GRE required, but waivers are available for applicants with:

  • Minimum 3.0 GPA and three years of management experience

  • Minimum 2.75 GPA and five years of management experience

  • Master’s or doctoral degree with a 3.0+ GPA

• Work Experience: At least two years of significant, full-time management experience required

• Application Materials: Resume, personal statement, two recommendations, official transcripts35

Graduate Outcomes (Cybersecurity Focus)

1. Ability to design and implement cybersecurity strategies that protect organizational assets and ensure compliance with industry regulations

2. Expertise in risk assessment, cyber threat mitigation, and business continuity planning

3. Leadership in cross-disciplinary teams to address evolving digital threats and foster organizational resilience12

Potential Roles for Graduates

• Cybersecurity Director

• Information Security Director

• Compliance Director2

Citation:
Boise State University Online MBA + Cyber Emphasis