Maryland, with its strong economy and strategic location along the East Coast, is a great place for an MBA graduate to start a career. The state’s GDP reached $512.3 billion in 2023, driven by a diverse mix of industries, including biotechnology, cybersecurity, and financial services. Thus, Maryland is home to a burgeoning startup ecosystem and numerous research institutions, including federal institutions like the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and companies such as Lockheed Martin and Under Armour.
The best online MBA programs in Maryland, such as those offered at the University of Maryland, Johns Hopkins University, and the University of Baltimore, feature concentrations that reflect the state’s strengths in technology, healthcare, and innovation. Students benefit from Maryland’s proximity to major metropolitan areas and leading companies while enjoying the flexibility of online learning. This setup allows working professionals to balance rigorous academic schedules with their professional commitments. Furthermore, the state’s connectivity to Washington D.C. means students have unparalleled opportunities for networking, internships, and career advancement in both the public and private sectors.
10 Benefits of Online MBA Programs in Maryland
#1 Higher Salaries
Graduates from Maryland’s top online MBA programs often enjoy substantial salary increases. For example, alumni from the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business report an average salary of $121,103, reflecting the program’s strong industry connections and rigorous curriculum. Similarly, Johns Hopkins University graduates earn an average of $127,044, benefiting from the institution’s reputation and focus on high-demand fields such as data analytics and healthcare. These programs prepare students to excel in leadership roles, offering a significant return on investment through enhanced earning potential.
#2 Specializations Matching Industry Needs
Maryland’s online MBA programs offer specializations that align with the state’s economic strengths. The University of Baltimore provides concentrations in business analytics and corporate finance, catering to the growing demand for skilled professionals in these areas. Frostburg State University also offers specializations in entrepreneurship and economics, reflecting Maryland’s emphasis on innovation and economic development. These tailored programs ensure that graduates possess the expertise required to meet industry needs and succeed in various business sectors.
#3 Students/Faculty Ratio
A favorable student-to-faculty ratio is a hallmark of Maryland’s online MBA programs, ensuring personalized attention and support. Frostburg State University boasts a ratio of 13:1, allowing for meaningful interactions between students and faculty. This environment fosters collaborative learning and mentorship, enhancing the educational experience. The University of Baltimore also maintains a low ratio of 12:1, providing students with access to experienced faculty who are dedicated to their academic and professional growth.
#4 Graduate ROI
Maryland’s online MBA programs offer impressive returns on investment, with graduates experiencing significant career advancement. Frostburg State University leads with a graduate ROI of 250%, highlighting the program’s effectiveness in boosting career prospects. The University of Baltimore also reports a strong ROI of 110%, demonstrating the value of its comprehensive curriculum and industry connections. These programs equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in competitive job markets, ensuring a worthwhile investment in their future.
#5 Flexible Learning Formats
Flexibility is a key advantage of Maryland’s online MBA programs, accommodating the needs of working professionals. The University of Maryland offers various formats, including online and part-time options, allowing students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. Similarly, Salisbury University provides a one-year online program, enabling students to complete their degrees efficiently. This flexibility ensures that students can pursue advanced education without sacrificing their current responsibilities.
#6 Alumni Networks
Strong alumni networks are a valuable resource for students in Maryland’s online MBA programs. The University of Maryland’s extensive network connects graduates with industry leaders and fellow alumni, facilitating career advancement and professional development. Johns Hopkins University also offers a robust alumni network, providing opportunities for mentorship and collaboration. These connections enhance the educational experience and support graduates as they navigate their careers.
#7 Experiential Learning Opportunities
Experiential learning is a cornerstone of Maryland’s online MBA programs, offering students practical experience in real-world settings. The University of Maryland integrates experiential learning into its curriculum, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges. Johns Hopkins University also emphasizes hands-on learning, preparing students for leadership roles in various industries. These opportunities equip graduates with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in dynamic business environments.
#8 Technology and Facilities
Maryland’s online MBA programs leverage cutting-edge technology and facilities to enhance the learning experience. The University of Maryland’s state-of-the-art resources support interactive and engaging online education, ensuring students have access to the tools they need to succeed. Similarly, Johns Hopkins University invests in advanced technology to provide a seamless and effective online learning environment. These resources enable students to engage with course material and collaborate with peers and faculty effectively.
#9 Sustainability and Social Responsibility
Sustainability and social responsibility are integral to Maryland’s online MBA programs, reflecting the state’s commitment to ethical business practices. The University of Maryland incorporates sustainability into its curriculum, encouraging students to consider the environmental and social impacts of business decisions. This focus prepares graduates to lead responsibly and make a positive impact in their organizations and communities.
#10 Program Rankings and Accreditation
Maryland’s online MBA programs are recognized for their excellence, with several institutions holding prestigious rankings and accreditations. The University of Maryland is accredited by the AACSB and ranked by major publications such as US News and Forbes. Johns Hopkins University also holds AACSB accreditation, reflecting its commitment to high-quality education. These accolades assure prospective students of the programs’ credibility and value, making them a compelling choice for advanced business education.
In conclusion, the best online MBA programs in Maryland offer a compelling combination of flexibility, industry relevance, and academic excellence. With tuition fees ranging from $16,740 at Frostburg State University to $133,000 at Johns Hopkins University, these programs cater to a wide range of budgets and career goals. The online format allows students to maintain their professional commitments while pursuing advanced education, with many programs offering accelerated options for quicker completion. Graduates benefit from strong job placement rates and competitive starting salaries, reflecting Maryland’s dynamic job market. Whether aiming for leadership roles in technology, healthcare, or finance, Maryland’s online MBA programs equip students with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to thrive in today’s complex business landscape.
6 Best Online MBA Programs in Maryland
#1 in Maryland
University of Maryland
Robert H. Smith School of Business
2570 Van Munching Hall, Office of the Dean, College Park, MD - 20742-1815- Institution Control: Public
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Doctoral, Dual-MBA, E-MBA, Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Undergraduate
- Offered as: Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends
Business School Details
Student / Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Tuition and Fees: $98,865
Total Enrollment: 4,928
Concentrations: Accounting, Data Analytics, Education, Finance +7 more- Ranking: US News, Forbes, BW, FT, Economist and MBAGuide
Average GMAT Score: 656
Graduate Salary: $121,103- AACSB Accredited: Business
- Graduate ROI: 61%
Student / Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Tuition and Fees: $98,865
Total Enrollment: 4,928
Concentrations: Accounting, Data Analytics, Education, Finance 
Ranking: US News, Forbes, BW, FT, Economist and MBAGuide
Average GMAT Score: 656
Graduate Salary: $121,103Online MBA Overview
The University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business offers a top-ranked Online MBA program that features a STEM-certified curriculum led by globally influential faculty. Ranked #11 in U.S. News & World Report's 2024 Best Online MBA Programs. Students benefit from unique learning experiences and access to internship and job opportunities across industries in the Washington, D.C. metro area. The program's flexible format allows students to take classes online or in person, with options to add on-campus courses, certificates, or experiential learning opportunities. Smith's Online MBA also provides access to a vast alumni network of over 70,000 professionals worldwide.
Total Credits: 30
Estimated Cost Per Unit: $694 per credit (in-state)
Academic Year: Contact School for Latest Information
Duration: 16 months
Platform Used: Contact School for Latest Information
Accreditation: AACSB
Online Application Deadline: Rolling
GMAT Required: No
In-Person Requirements: Optional (can add on-campus courses)
Capstone Project/Thesis: Yes - 4-credit Action Learning Project
Average Work Experience: 62 months
Online Specializations: Contact School for Latest Information
Why Choose University of Maryland Robert H. Smith School of Business?
- Cutting-edge STEM curriculum: Develops analytical skills and data-driven decision-making capabilities valued by employers.
- Experiential learning opportunities: Participate in real-world consulting projects and manage a $1 million+ equity fund.
- Flexible program structure: Choose between online and in-person classes, with options to add certificates and global learning experiences.
The Robert H. Smith School of Business emphasizes entrepreneurship and innovation. The school's location in the Washington, D.C. metro area provides unparalleled access to government, corporate, and international networks. Smith's Online MBA program offers a unique blend of academic excellence and practical application, preparing students to tackle complex business challenges in a rapidly evolving global economy.
University of Maryland | Robert H. Smith School of Business | U.S. News & World Report | Middle States Commission on Higher Education | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Data collection completed: July 25, 2024
#2 in Maryland
University of Baltimore
Robert G. Merrick School of Business
- 1420 North Charles Street, Thurmel Business Center, Baltimore, MD - 21201-5779
- Institution Control: Public
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Doctoral, Graduate Level Certificate, Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Undergraduate, Undergraduate Certificate
- Offered as: Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends
Business School Details
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 12:1
- Tuition and Fees: $35,128
- Total Enrollment: 754
- Concentrations: Accounting, Business Analytics, Consulting, Corporate Finance +20 more
- Ranking: MBAGuide
- Average GMAT Score: 590
- Graduate Salary: $77,400
- AACSB Accredited: Business
- Graduate ROI: 110%
Online MBA Overview
The University of Baltimore's Robert G. Merrick School of Business pioneered online MBA education, launching the world's first fully-online AACSB-accredited MBA program in 1999. This legacy of innovation continues with a curriculum that mirrors the on-campus Flexible MBA, ensuring consistent quality across delivery modes. The program caters to working professionals through its flexible structure, offering 1.5-credit 7-week courses and 3-credit 15-week courses. With a strong focus on experiential learning and community engagement, students benefit from real-world business challenges through internships and consulting projects. The Merrick School's urban campus in Baltimore's business district provides students with modern facilities and direct access to industry connections.
Total Credits: 36-48 credits
Estimated Cost Per Unit: $900 (in-state and out-of-state)
Academic Year: Semester
Duration: as little as 18 months
Platform Used: Contact School for Latest Information
Accreditation: AACSB
Online Application Deadline: Rolling
GMAT Required: Optional - can be waived based on work experience or previous academic performance
In-Person Requirements: None
Capstone Project/Thesis: Yes - Strategic Management Capstone
Average Work Experience: 84 months
Online Specializations: Data Analytics, Finance, Leadership and Marketing, and Custom Option
Why Choose University of Baltimore?
- Pioneering Online Education: First fully-online AACSB-accredited MBA program globally, with over two decades of experience in distance learning.
- Flexible Program Structure: Offers both 7-week and 15-week courses, allowing students to balance work and study effectively.
- Strong Community Connections: Located in Baltimore's business district, providing direct access to industry partnerships and real-world learning opportunities.
The University of Baltimore's Robert G. Merrick School of Business has a long-standing expertise in online education and deep roots in the Baltimore business community. The program's flexibility caters to working professionals, while its urban location facilitates strong industry connections. With a diverse range of specializations and a focus on experiential learning, the Merrick School equips students with the skills needed to thrive in today's dynamic business environment.
University of Baltimore | USNews.com | MBAGuide.org | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Data collection completed: July 25, 2024
#3 in Maryland
Johns Hopkins University
- 100 International Drive, Baltimore, MD - 21202-1099
- Institution Control: Private
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Dual-MBA, Graduate Level Certificate, Masters in Business, Masters Specialist
- Offered as: 1-Year, Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends
Business School Details
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 14:1
- Tuition and Fees: $133,000
- Total Enrollment: 2,866
- Concentrations: Data Analytics, Enterpreneurship, Entrepreneurship, Finance +11 more
- Ranking: MBAGuide
- Average GMAT Score: 673
- Graduate Salary: $127,044
- AACSB Accredited: Business
- Graduate ROI: 48%
Online MBA Overview
Johns Hopkins Carey Business School's online MBA program leverages the university's world-renowned reputation in healthcare to offer a unique business education experience. The program integrates design thinking principles and emphasizes healthcare management, preparing students for leadership roles in this critical sector. With a flexible online format, students can balance their studies with professional commitments while accessing Johns Hopkins' vast resources and network[1][3].
Total Credits: 54
Estimated Cost Per Unit: Contact School for Latest Information
Academic Year: Semester
Duration: 2.5 years
Platform Used: Contact School for Latest Information
Accreditation: AACSB, Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Online Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
GMAT Required: Optional - waivers available based on work experience or other graduate degrees
In-Person Requirements: None
Capstone Project/Thesis: Yes - Innovation Field Project
Average Work Experience: Contact School for Latest Information
Online Specializations: Health Care Management, Financial Management, Marketing, Entrepreneurship
Why Choose Johns Hopkins Carey Business School?
- Design Leadership Focus: Unique MA/MBA program integrating design thinking with business education, preparing graduates for innovative leadership roles.
- Healthcare Expertise: Leverages Johns Hopkins' world-class medical reputation to offer specialized healthcare management courses and networking opportunities.
- Global Alumni Network: Access to over 25,000 business alumni worldwide, providing extensive networking and career advancement opportunities.
Johns Hopkins Carey Business School's online MBA program integrates design thinking and healthcare management expertise. The school's Innovation Field Project allows students to apply their learning to real-world business challenges, enhancing their practical skills. With a global alumni network spanning various industries and a reputation for excellence in healthcare, Carey Business School equips graduates with the tools to lead in today's complex business environment.
Johns Hopkins University | Carey Business School | U.S. News & World Report | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Data collection completed: Thursday, July 25, 2024
#4 in Maryland
Frostburg State University
- 125 Guild Center, Frostburg, MD - 21532-1099
- Institution Control: Public
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Integrated Undergraduate Masters, Masters in Business, Undergraduate
- Offered as: Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends
Business School Details
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 8:1
- Tuition and Fees: $16,740
- Total Enrollment: 501
- Concentrations: Accounting, Business Analytics, Economics, Entrepreneurship +12 more
- Ranking: MBAGuide
- Average GMAT Score: 550
- Graduate Salary: $83,700
- AACSB Accredited: Business
- Graduate ROI: 250%
Online MBA Overview
Frostburg State University's online MBA program is recognized as a US News and World Report Best Online Program and a "Best Buy" for AACSB-accredited online MBA programs by GetEducated.com. The curriculum is designed for both business and non-business majors, offering a well-rounded foundation through eight core courses and four concentration courses. With six admission points per year and a GMAT waiver option for qualified applicants, the program provides accessibility and convenience for working professionals.
Total Credits: 36-42
Estimated Cost Per Unit: $465 (in-state), $600 (out-of-state)
Academic Year: Semester
Duration: As little as 12 months (full-time)
Platform Used: Canvas
Accreditation: AACSB International
Online Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
GMAT Required: Yes, with waiver options available
In-Person Requirements: None
Capstone Project/Thesis: Yes, MGMT 680 Strategic Analysis and Planning
Average Work Experience: Contact School for Latest Information
Online Specializations: Business Analytics, Healthcare Management, Management
Why Choose Frostburg State University?
- AACSB Accreditation: Frostburg's MBA program holds the prestigious AACSB International accreditation, a distinction held by only 5% of the world's business programs.
- Flexible 7-Week Course Model: The program's structure allows students to juggle professional, personal, and academic commitments effectively.
- Industry-Aligned Concentrations: The Healthcare Management concentration was developed in consultation with regional industry leaders to meet specific industry needs.
Frostburg State University's online MBA program equips students with practical, industry-relevant education. The Healthcare Management concentration, developed with input from regional industry leaders, demonstrates the program's dedication to preparing students for real-world challenges. With its AACSB accreditation and flexible course structure, Frostburg's MBA offers a high-quality, accessible education that caters to the needs of working professionals seeking career advancement.
Frostburg State University | U.S. News & World Report | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Data collection completed: July 25, 2024
#5 in Maryland
Salisbury University
Franklin P. Perdue School of Business
- Perdue Hall, Salisbury, MD - 21801-6860
- Institution Control: Public
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Masters in Business, Undergraduate, Undergraduate Certificate
- Offered as: 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends
Business School Details
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 12:1
- Tuition and Fees: $20,792
- Total Enrollment: 1,516
- Concentrations: Accounting, Data Analytics, Economics, Finance +5 more
- Ranking: MBAGuide
- Average GMAT Score: 531
- Graduate Salary: $59,700
- AACSB Accredited: Business and Accounting
- Graduate ROI: 144%
Online MBA Overview
Salisbury University's Franklin P. Perdue School of Business offers a dynamic online MBA program that integrates cutting-edge Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and Business Intelligence Software technology throughout its curriculum. As a member of the SAP University Alliances Program, the school provides students with access to world-class applications, preparing them for immediate impact in the global business landscape. The program's AACSB accreditation underscores its commitment to excellence, while its flexible format allows students to complete their degree in as little as nine months or at their own pace.
Total Credits: 30
Estimated Cost Per Unit: $790 (in-state and out-of-state)
Academic Year: Semester
Duration: 9 months to 2 years
Platform Used: Canvas
Accreditation: AACSB International
Online Application Deadline: August 1 (rolling admissions)
GMAT Required: Optional (exceptions may apply)
In-Person Requirements: None
Capstone Project/Thesis: Yes - Live consulting project with real community clients
Average Work Experience: Contact School for Latest Information
Online Specializations: Contact School for Latest Information
Why Choose Salisbury University?
- SAP-enhanced curriculum: Provides students with hands-on experience using industry-standard ERP systems, giving graduates a competitive edge in the job market.
- Accelerated completion option: Allows motivated students to earn their MBA in as little as nine months, fast-tracking career advancement opportunities.
- Real-world consulting experience: Engages students in live consulting projects with actual community clients, bridging the gap between theory and practice.
Salisbury University's online MBA program has innovative integration of SAP technology across the curriculum to prepare students for the digital transformation of business. The program's flexibility caters to both working professionals and full-time students, with options to complete the degree in as little as nine months or at a more measured pace. It has an AACSB accreditation and recognition by U.S. News & World Report as one of the nation's "Best Online Programs" for six consecutive years. Salisbury University offers a high-quality, accessible MBA education that equips graduates with immediately applicable skills in today's technology-driven business environment.
Salisbury University | Franklin P. Perdue School of Business | U.S. News & World Report | Forbes | The Princeton Review | Middle States Commission on Higher Education | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Data collection completed: July 25, 2024
#6 in Maryland
Mount St. Mary's University
Richard J. Bolte, Sr. School of Business
- 16300 Old Emmitsburg Road, , MD - 21727
- Institution Control:
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation:
- Award Levels:
- Offered as: Campus, Online
Business School Details
- Student / Faculty Ratio: NAN:0
- Tuition and Fees: N/A
- Total Enrollment: N/A
- Concentrations: Business Analytics, Finance, Marketing
- Ranking:
- Average GMAT Score: N/A
- Graduate Salary: N/A
- AACSB Accredited: N/A
- Graduate ROI: %
Online MBA Overview
Mount St. Mary's University's Richard J. Bolte, Sr. School of Business' MBA program combines ethical leadership development with practical business skills. The program transitions to a fully online format starting summer 2026, providing flexibility for working professionals. With a curriculum emphasizing close student-faculty relationships and ethical business standards, the Mount's MBA prepares graduates for responsible and methodologically sound business leadership. The program's unique modular structure focuses on integrating external business information with organizational strengths and opportunities.
Total Credits: Contact School for Latest Information
Estimated Cost Per Unit: Contact School for Latest Information
Academic Year: Semester
Duration: As little as one year
Platform Used: Contact School for Latest Information
Accreditation: International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE)
Online Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
GMAT Required: Contact School for Latest Information
In-Person Requirements: None (fully online starting summer 2026)
Capstone Project/Thesis: Yes - team-based final capstone project
Average Work Experience: Contact School for Latest Information
Online Specializations: Finance, Management, Marketing
Why Choose Mount St. Mary's University?
- Ethical Focus: Integrates ethical business standards throughout the curriculum, preparing graduates for responsible decision-making in complex business environments.
- Flexible Learning: Offers online, face-to-face, and hybrid options until summer 2026, transitioning to fully online thereafter, accommodating diverse student needs and schedules.
- Dual Credentials: Students can earn a graduate certificate alongside their MBA at no additional cost, enhancing their professional qualifications.
Mount St. Mary's MBA program is committed to ethical leadership and practical business education. The program's modular structure, focusing on external analysis, internal capabilities, productivity measures, and specialized concentrations, provides a comprehensive approach to business education. With the transition to a fully online format and the opportunity for dual credentials, Mount St. Mary's offers a forward-thinking MBA tailored to the needs of modern business professionals.
Mount St. Mary's University | Richard J. Bolte, Sr. School of Business | International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Data collection completed: July 25, 2024
How We Rank the Best Online MBA Programs in Maryland
MBAGuide.org employs a comprehensive ranking methodology that combines quantitative data (80% of the score) with qualitative assessments (20%) to evaluate MBA programs. The quantitative component considers factors such as student-faculty ratio, tuition, enrollment, and post-graduation salaries, while the qualitative aspect incorporates editorial ratings and school reputation, providing a well-rounded view of each program’s quality and value.
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Rebecca Smith-Allen solved business problems across a variety of industries as a McKinsey consultant before discovering her true passion was writing. Now, Rebecca brings together her love of drafting clear, concise, and persuasive text with her business background as a freelance writer. She focuses on content management, website content, and boosting message visibility via social media. Rebecca earned her B.A. in Economics from Wellesley College and her MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth. In her spare time, Rebecca writes young adult speculative fiction.
