Compare New Mexico Online MBA Program Averages to Online and National Averages
$18,520
Average Tuition and Fees
$67,250
Average Starting Salary
569
Average GMAT Scores
212
Average Student Enrollment
| Averages | New Mexico | Online | US |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average MBA Tuition | $18,520 | $38,875 | $43,476 |
| Average Graduate Salary | $67,250 | $67,250 | $81,243 |
| Average Graduate ROI | 235% | 157% | 146% |
| Average GMAT Scores | 569 | 557 | 561 |
| Average Student Faculty Ratio | 19:1 | 17:1 | 16:1 |
| Average Full-Time MBA Enrollment | 212 | 279 | 288 |
10 Ways Exceptional Value Meets Online MBA Affordability in New Mexico
For students thinking about getting an MBA, New Mexico has various programs that are tough to beat, thanks to its mix of low costs and high value. In-state tuition here ranges from $10,314 to $26,590 per year, way lower than the national average of $43,546. But it’s not just the price that’s attractive. New Mexico ranks 3rd in the U.S. for MBA affordability and return on investment (ROI). The state’s business schools design their programs to fit important industries like aerospace, defense, renewable energy, and agriculture. For example, New Mexico State University offers an agribusiness concentration that fits perfectly with the state’s $3 billion agricultural industry. Similarly, the University of New Mexico focuses on technology management, supporting Albuquerque’s growing tech scene.
New Mexico’s MBA programs are impressive despite their lower costs. They have AACSB accreditation, which means they provide top-notch education comparable to pricier schools. Plus, these programs are innovative, offering specializations like blockchain technology and sustainable business practices. With average starting salaries for graduates around $67,250 and an average ROI of 235%, choosing an MBA in New Mexico is a smart financial move. Let’s explore the top 10 benefits of these affordable MBA programs.
#1: Unmatched Return on Investment
New Mexico’s affordable MBA programs deliver a high return on investment (ROI). For instance, graduates from New Mexico State University see a 356% ROI, which is more than double the national average. The University of New Mexico follows closely with a 235% ROI. These great returns come from a mix of low tuition costs and strong graduate salaries. The programs align with high-growth industries like renewable energy and aerospace, helping graduates secure well-paying jobs in fields with rising demand. These ROI figures highlight why an affordable MBA in New Mexico is a great choice.
#2: High-Quality Education at a Low Cost
You might think affordable MBA programs compromise on quality or prestige, but that’s not the case in New Mexico. Both the University of New Mexico’s Anderson School of Management and New Mexico State University’s College of Business are AACSB accredited, a gold standard in business education. This accreditation means students get a rigorous education at a fraction of the cost. For instance, UNM’s in-state tuition is $26,590, much less than the national average for accredited programs. NMSU is even more affordable at $10,314. This makes top-tier education accessible without breaking the bank.
#3: Cutting-Edge Specializations
New Mexico’s MBA programs offer innovative specializations that match global trends and the state’s economic needs. The University of New Mexico, for instance, offers a Technology Management concentration ideal for Albuquerque’s tech hub. New Mexico State University provides a specialization in Agricultural Economics, aligning with the state’s agricultural industry. These programs also focus on future trends, like Sustainability and Social Impact at UNM and Information Systems at NMSU. By offering relevant specializations at an affordable cost, these schools prepare students for emerging fields without heavy debt.
#4: Strong Industry Connections
Despite their affordability, New Mexico’s MBA programs have strong industry connections. The University of New Mexico partners with local tech giants like Intel and Sandia National Laboratories, offering students valuable networking and project experience. New Mexico State University uses its location near the US-Mexico border to give insights into international trade. Both schools integrate industry projects into their curriculum, allowing students to solve real business challenges. These partnerships and the strong alumni networks provide graduates with a competitive edge in the job market.
#5: Flexible Learning for Working Professionals
New Mexico’s MBA programs understand that many students balance work, family, and education. The University of New Mexico offers a part-time MBA program with evening and weekend classes, allowing students to finish in about 28 months. New Mexico State University offers even more flexibility with online and hybrid MBA options. These formats maintain high quality and networking opportunities, ensuring that working professionals can advance their education without putting their lives on hold.
#6: Focus on Sustainability and Social Impact
In today’s business world, companies are expected to consider their environmental and social impacts. New Mexico’s MBA programs lead in this area. The University of New Mexico offers a Sustainability and Social Impact concentration, teaching students to create sustainable business models and measure social impact. New Mexico State University focuses on sustainable agriculture and resource management, using the state’s environmental challenges as a learning tool. These programs prepare graduates for roles in sustainability consulting and impact investing, combining affordable education with ethical leadership.
#7: Emphasis on Entrepreneurship and Innovation
New Mexico’s MBA programs are designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. Both the University of New Mexico and New Mexico State University offer strong entrepreneurship tracks. UNM’s Innovation Academy provides mentorship, seed funding, and co-working spaces for student startups. NMSU integrates entrepreneurship across various concentrations, helping students apply entrepreneurial principles to fields like agribusiness. Both schools host business plan competitions and startup weekends, supporting students in launching their ventures without accumulating significant debt.
#8: Expertise in Cross-Cultural Business
With New Mexico’s unique position as a border state, its MBA programs offer valuable insights into cross-cultural business practices. The University of New Mexico leverages the state’s diverse population to study multicultural marketing and global supply chain management. New Mexico State University offers an International Business concentration with practical experience in cross-border trade. Both schools offer international study trips and exchange programs, providing global business experience at an affordable cost.
#9: Strong Alumni Networks
New Mexico’s MBA programs boast strong alumni networks in key industries. The University of New Mexico has produced leaders in aerospace and defense sectors, while New Mexico State University has a strong network in agriculture and energy sectors. These connections provide students with mentorship, industry insights, and job opportunities, enhancing their career prospects without the high cost associated with elite business schools.
#10: Research Opportunities in Emerging Fields
New Mexico’s affordable MBA programs offer exceptional research opportunities. The University of New Mexico has research centers focused on behavioral economics, digital marketing, and sustainable business practices. New Mexico State University conducts research in blockchain technology, AI in supply chain management, and climate change’s economic impact on agriculture. These opportunities allow students to engage in cutting-edge research and gain a competitive edge in data-driven industries.
Our Top 2 Picks for Affordable Online MBA Programs in New Mexico
#1 in New Mexico
New Mexico State University
MSC 3AD, PO Box 30001, Las Cruces, NM - 88003-8001- Institution Control: Public
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Doctoral, Graduate Level Certificate, Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Undergraduate
- Offered as: Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends
Business School Details
Student / Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Tuition and Fees: $10,314
Total Enrollment: 1,755
Concentrations: Accounting, Business Analytics, Data Analytics, Entrepreneurship +11 more- Ranking: MBAGuide
Average GMAT Score: 517
Graduate Salary: $73,500- AACSB Accredited: Business and Accounting
- Graduate ROI: 356%
- MBAGuide Rankings:
Student / Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Tuition and Fees: $10,314
Total Enrollment: 1,755
Concentrations: Accounting, Business Analytics, Data Analytics, Entrepreneurship 
Ranking: MBAGuide
Average GMAT Score: 517
Graduate Salary: $73,500New Mexico State University's College of Business offers an MBA program that's a perfect blend of affordability and quality education in the Land of Enchantment. With in-state tuition at just $11,851 per year, it's one of the most cost-effective options in New Mexico, providing an impressive return on investment with graduates reporting an average starting salary of $86,800. The program's concentrations in areas like Information Systems and Finance align seamlessly with New Mexico's growing tech and financial sectors, while its focus on agribusiness caters to the state's strong agricultural industry. The college's partnerships with local businesses and its emphasis on experiential learning ensure students are well-prepared for the unique challenges of the New Mexico business landscape.
Affordable Tuition
New Mexico State University's MBA program offers exceptional value for money. With in-state tuition at $11,851 and out-of-state at $35,325, it's significantly more affordable than many comparable programs. This cost-effectiveness doesn't come at the expense of quality - the program's AACSB accreditation ensures a high standard of education. For budget-conscious students, this affordability can mean the difference between pursuing higher education or not.
Flexible Learning Options
The College of Business understands the needs of working professionals. That's why they offer their MBA program in various formats - full-time, part-time, and online. This flexibility allows students to balance their education with work and personal commitments. The online MBA program, in particular, has gained recognition, ranking #159 in U.S. News & World Report's Best Online MBA Programs.
Strong ROI
NMSU's MBA program boasts an impressive return on investment. Graduates report an average starting salary of $86,800, which, when compared to the program's tuition, results in an ROI of about 366%. This figure outperforms both the state average (281%) and the national average (154%) for MBA programs, making it a smart financial decision for aspiring business leaders.
Industry-Relevant Concentrations
The program offers a range of concentrations that align with key industries in New Mexico and beyond. Options include Finance, Information Systems, and Agribusiness, reflecting the state's growing tech sector, financial services industry, and strong agricultural tradition. This alignment ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the specific needs of New Mexico's job market.
Experiential Learning Opportunities
NMSU's College of Business places a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on learning. The curriculum includes case studies, internships, and consulting projects with local businesses. These experiences provide students with real-world application of their classroom knowledge, making them more attractive to potential employers upon graduation.
Small Class Sizes
With an average enrollment of 96 students, NMSU's MBA program offers an intimate learning environment. This smaller cohort size allows for more personalized attention from faculty, greater opportunities for class participation, and the ability to form close relationships with peers - all factors that can enhance the learning experience and lead to better outcomes.
#2 in New Mexico
The University of New Mexico
The Robert O. Anderson School of Management
- 1 University of New Mexico, MSC 05 3090, Albuquerque, NM - 87131-0001
- Institution Control: Public
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: E-MBA, Integrated Undergraduate Masters, Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Undergraduate
- Offered as: Campus, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time
Business School Details
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 23:1
- Tuition and Fees: $26,725
- Total Enrollment: 2,916
- Concentrations: Accounting, Arts, Economics, Education +10 more
- Ranking: MBAGuide
- Average GMAT Score: 620
- Graduate Salary: $61,000
- AACSB Accredited: Business and Accounting
- Graduate ROI: 114%
- MBAGuide Rankings:
The University of New Mexico's Robert O. Anderson School of Management offers an MBA program that combines academic rigor with real-world applicability, making it a standout choice for aspiring business leaders in the Land of Enchantment. As one of the elite 6% of business schools worldwide with AACSB accreditation, this program delivers exceptional value through its blend of affordability and quality education. With in-state tuition at $26,725, it's competitively priced while still offering a robust ROI – graduates report an average starting salary of $61,000. The program's concentrations, including areas like Information Systems and Accounting, align seamlessly with New Mexico's growing tech and financial sectors. What truly sets this MBA apart is its commitment to diversity and inclusion, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the state. As the only research-extensive state flagship institution designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution, UNM Anderson provides a unique learning environment that prepares students for success in today's global business landscape.
Flexible Learning Options
The Anderson School of Management understands that one size doesn't fit all when it comes to education. That's why they offer their MBA program in various formats – full-time, part-time, and online. This flexibility is a game-changer for working professionals looking to advance their careers without putting their lives on hold. Whether you're a full-time student eager to dive deep into your studies or a busy executive balancing work and family commitments, there's a path tailored just for you. The online MBA program, in particular, has gained recognition, ranking among U.S. News & World Report's Best Online MBA Programs.
Strong Industry Connections
At UNM Anderson, theory meets practice in the most impactful way. The school's deep-rooted connections with local businesses and organizations translate into real-world learning opportunities for students. From internships with leading New Mexico companies to consulting projects that tackle actual business challenges, these experiences provide an invaluable bridge between classroom learning and professional application. It's not just about what you know, but who you know and how you can apply your knowledge – and UNM Anderson excels in both areas.
Diverse and Inclusive Learning Environment
In today's globalized business world, diversity isn't just a buzzword – it's a competitive advantage. UNM Anderson takes pride in its diverse student body, which mirrors the rich ethnic makeup of New Mexico. This diversity extends beyond demographics to include a variety of professional backgrounds and perspectives. Imagine collaborating on projects with a team that includes a former teacher, a tech entrepreneur, and a non-profit leader. This melting pot of experiences creates a dynamic learning environment that broadens horizons and prepares students for the diverse workplaces they'll encounter after graduation.
Personalized Attention
Size matters when it comes to education, and UNM Anderson strikes the perfect balance. With classes rarely exceeding 60 students and most hovering around 40 or fewer, you're not just another face in the crowd. This intimate learning environment fosters meaningful interactions with both peers and faculty. You'll have the opportunity to engage in deep discussions, receive personalized feedback, and build lasting relationships that can propel your career long after graduation. It's the kind of personal touch that can make all the difference in your educational journey.
Comprehensive Career Services
Your MBA is an investment in your future, and UNM Anderson is committed to ensuring that investment pays off. The school's dedicated career services team goes above and beyond to help students land their dream jobs. From one-on-one career coaching and resume workshops to networking events with potential employers, they provide a full suite of services to give you a competitive edge in the job market. And with an average starting salary of $61,000 for graduates, it's clear that these efforts are paying dividends. Whether you're looking to climb the corporate ladder or pivot to a new industry, UNM Anderson's career services team is your secret weapon for success.
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Keri Baker is a Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania-based freelance copywriter and MBA-graduate who loves writing about productivity. When she’s not listening to productivity podcasts or researching Apple products, you can find her chasing her pups around or volunteering at the local homeless mission. Feel free to find Keri on Twitter or Instagram @techgirlpgh.