Minnesota, known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” has a business ecosystem that attracts MBA students nationwide. With a GDP of over $379 billion in 2023, the state’s economy is powered by industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, finance, and technology. The state is home to major corporations like UnitedHealth Group, Target, and 3M, which means ample of career opportunities for MBA graduates. The Best Online MBA Programs in Minnesota capitalize on the state’s strengths. Programs such as the University of St. Thomas-Minnesota’s Online MBA, Minnesota State University Moorhead’s Online MBA, and Capella University’s Online MBA offer curricula with concentrations in healthcare management, supply chain logistics, and financial analysis.
Minnesota’s strategic location in the Midwest, coupled with a transportation network, makes Minnesota a significant hub for commerce and trade. Students benefit from networking opportunities with Fortune 500 companies, healthcare giants, and innovative tech firms, all while enjoying the flexibility of an online learning environment. This adaptability allows working professionals to advance their careers without sacrificing their current employment, making these programs ideal for those looking to grow in Minnesota’s competitive job market.
10 Benefits of Online MBA Programs in Minnesota
#1 Flexible Learning Formats
Minnesota’s online MBA programs offer flexible learning formats that cater to the needs of working professionals. For instance, Capella University’s School of Business and Technology provides a competency-based education model, allowing students to progress at their own pace. Similarly, the University of St. Thomas-Minnesota offers a hybrid format that combines online coursework with in-person residencies. This flexibility enables students to balance their studies with work and personal commitments, making it easier to advance their education without sacrificing their current careers.
#2 Specializations Matching Industry Needs
Programs in Minnesota offer specializations that align with the state’s key industries, enhancing graduates’ employability. The University of St. Thomas-Minnesota, for example, offers concentrations in healthcare management and business analytics, fields that are in high demand in Minnesota. Minnesota State University Mankato’s College of Business provides specializations in leadership and technology management, preparing students for roles in the state’s growing tech sector. These targeted specializations ensure that graduates have the skills needed to meet the demands of Minnesota’s job market.
#3 Alumni Networks
Strong alumni networks are a significant benefit of Minnesota’s online MBA programs. The University of St. Thomas-Minnesota boasts a large and active alumni network, providing students with valuable connections in various industries. Capella University also offers extensive networking opportunities through its alumni association, helping graduates to build professional relationships that can lead to job opportunities and career advancement. These networks are crucial for mentoring, job placements, and professional growth.
#4 Graduate ROI
The return on investment (ROI) for graduates of Minnesota’s online MBA programs is noteworthy. Graduates from the University of St. Thomas-Minnesota and Capella University report high starting salaries and strong career progression. The skills and knowledge gained from these programs translate into higher earning potential and better job prospects. This makes pursuing an online MBA in Minnesota a financially sound decision for many professionals.
#5 Technology and Facilities
Minnesota’s online MBA programs leverage advanced technology and facilities to enhance the learning experience. Capella University, for instance, uses cutting-edge online platforms to deliver interactive and engaging coursework. The University of St. Thomas-Minnesota provides access to state-of-the-art facilities during in-person residencies, offering students a blend of online and hands-on learning experiences. These technological advancements ensure that students receive a high-quality education that is both flexible and effective.
#6 Experiential Learning Opportunities
Experiential learning is a key component of Minnesota’s online MBA programs. The University of St. Thomas-Minnesota integrates real-world projects and case studies into its curriculum, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. Minnesota State University Moorhead’s College of Business and Innovation offers internships and consulting projects with local businesses, providing hands-on experience that is invaluable in the job market. These opportunities help students to develop practical skills and gain insights into their chosen industries.
#7 Admission Requirements No GMAT Required
Several online MBA programs in Minnesota, such as those offered by Capella University and Minnesota State University Moorhead, do not require the GMAT for admission. This makes the application process more accessible for working professionals who may not have the time to prepare for standardized tests. By removing this barrier, these programs attract a diverse pool of candidates, enriching the learning environment with varied perspectives and experiences.
#8 Duration (Accelerated Options)
Minnesota’s online MBA programs offer accelerated options for students who wish to complete their degrees quickly. Capella University, for example, provides a FlexPath option that allows students to finish their MBA in as little as 12 months. The University of St. Thomas-Minnesota also offers accelerated tracks that enable students to graduate faster while maintaining the same rigorous academic standards. These options are ideal for professionals looking to advance their careers without a lengthy time commitment.
#9 Job Placement Rates
High job placement rates are a hallmark of Minnesota’s online MBA programs. Graduates from the University of St. Thomas-Minnesota and Minnesota State University Mankato enjoy strong job placement rates, reflecting the programs’ effectiveness in preparing students for the job market. The robust career services offered by these institutions, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and job fairs, play a crucial role in helping students secure employment after graduation.
#10 Top Employers for Graduates
Minnesota’s online MBA programs have strong connections with top employers in the state, enhancing graduates’ job prospects. Companies like UnitedHealth Group, Target, and 3M actively recruit from programs such as the University of St. Thomas-Minnesota and Capella University. These partnerships provide students with access to job opportunities at leading organizations, ensuring that they can leverage their MBA credentials to secure desirable positions in their chosen fields.
Minnesota’s best online MBA programs offer a compelling combination of flexibility, specialized curricula, and strong industry connections. With tuition fees that cater to both in-state and out-of-state students, these programs provide a cost-effective way to advance one’s career. The convenience of online delivery, coupled with the prestige of institutions like the University of St. Thomas-Minnesota and Capella University, makes these programs an attractive option for professionals. Graduates benefit from high starting salaries, strong ROI, and excellent job placement rates, making an online MBA from Minnesota a valuable investment in one’s future.
4 Best Online MBA Programs in Minnesota
#1 in Minnesota
University of St. Thomas-Minnesota
1000 LaSalle Ave., Minneapolis, MN - 55403- Institution Control: Private
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Doctoral, E-MBA, Graduate Level Certificate, Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Undergraduate, Undergraduate Certificate
- Offered as: Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends
Business School Details
Student / Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Tuition and Fees: N/A
Total Enrollment: 3,058
Concentrations: Accounting, Data Analytics, Economics, Entrepreneurship +14 more- Ranking: MBAGuide
Average GMAT Score: 680
Graduate Salary: $102,900- AACSB Accredited: Business
- Graduate ROI: 65%
- MBAGuide Rankings:
Student / Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Tuition and Fees: N/A
Total Enrollment: 3,058
Concentrations: Accounting, Data Analytics, Economics, Entrepreneurship 
Ranking: MBAGuide
Average GMAT Score: 680
Graduate Salary: $102,900Online MBA Overview
The University of St. Thomas Opus College of Business offers a flexible MBA program that can be completed entirely online, in-person, or through a combination of both formats. Ranked #96 in Part-time MBA programs by U.S. News & World Report, this program caters to working professionals with an average of 8 years of work experience. The curriculum comprises 45 credits, evenly split between core business topics and electives, allowing students to customize their learning journey. The program's emphasis on community engagement is evident through initiatives like the Community Entrepreneurship Program, which supports local entrepreneurs facing economic hardship.
Total Credits: 45
Estimated Cost Per Unit: $1,356 (in-state and out-of-state)
Academic Year: Semester
Duration: 2-7 years
Platform Used: Contact School for Latest Information
Accreditation: AACSB
Online Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
GMAT Required: Optional
In-Person Requirements: None for Part-time Flex, 4-5 three-day residencies for Healthcare MBA
Capstone Project/Thesis: Contact School for Latest Information
Average Work Experience: 8 years
Online Specializations: Part Time Flex MBA, Healthcare and Executive
Why Choose University of St. Thomas Opus College of Business?
- Extensive Tommie Network: Access to over 19,000 Opus College alumni and 600 MBA students across various industries, facilitating meaningful connections in Minnesota and globally.
- Customizable Curriculum: 22.5 core credits and 22.5 elective credits allow students to tailor their MBA experience through specialized tracks, interdisciplinary certificates, or diverse courses.
- Community-Focused Initiatives: Programs like the Community Entrepreneurship Program demonstrate the school's commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering economic growth.
The University of St. Thomas Opus College of Business distinguishes itself through its commitment to Catholic intellectual tradition, which unites faith and reason in exploring the world[3]. This unique approach is reflected in the school's focus on developing ethical business leaders and its dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The Part-time Flex MBA program's flexibility and customization options, combined with the school's strong community engagement, provide students with a well-rounded and impactful educational experience.
University of St. Thomas | Opus College of Business | U.S. News & World Report | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business | Higher Learning Commission
Data collection completed: July 25, 2024
#2 in Minnesota
Minnesota State University Moorhead
College of Business and Innovation
- Center for Business 100, Moorhead, MN - 56563
- Institution Control: Public
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Undergraduate
- Offered as: Campus, Full-Time, Online
Business School Details
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 25:1
- Tuition and Fees: $26,220
- Total Enrollment: 595
- Concentrations: Accounting, Entrepreneurship, Finance, General Business +16 more
- Ranking: MBAGuide
- Average GMAT Score: 614
- Graduate Salary: $85,000
- AACSB Accredited: Business
- Graduate ROI: 162%
- MBAGuide Rankings:
Online MBA Overview
Minnesota State University Moorhead's (MSUM) online MBA program, offered through the Paseka School of Business, combines academic rigor with practical flexibility. The program features four emphasis areas: management, healthcare, accounting & finance, and a personalized option, allowing students to tailor their degree to their career goals. MSUM's MBA was nationally ranked in the 2018 U.S. News & World Report Best Online Programs list and named in Top Management Degree's Top 50 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs 2017. The program's AACSB accreditation ensures high-quality education, placing it among the top 5% of business schools worldwide.
Total Credits: 37
Estimated Cost Per Unit: $708 (in-state and out-of-state)
Academic Year: Semester
Duration: 2 years (typical)
Platform Used: Contact School for Latest Information
Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission
Online Application Deadline: Rolling admission
GMAT Required: Optional - can be waived based on GPA or work experience
In-Person Requirements: None
Capstone Project/Thesis: Yes - Strategic Management capstone course
Average Work Experience: Contact School for Latest Information
Online Specializations: Management, Healthcare, Accounting & Finance, Personalized Option
Why Choose Minnesota State University Moorhead?
- Flexible Learning Options: Offers online, on-campus, and hybrid course delivery to accommodate working professionals.
- Fifth-Year Extension Program: Provides a direct pathway from any undergraduate degree to an MBA in just five years.
- International Student Friendly: The program is visa-eligible for Fall 2024 and beyond, with STEM designation pending.
Minnesota State University Moorhead's online MBA program's four emphasis areas allow students to tailor their education to specific career goals, while the fifth-year extension option provides an accelerated path to degree completion. With its AACSB accreditation and national rankings, MSUM's MBA offers a high-quality education at a competitive price point, making it an attractive option for both domestic and international students seeking a flexible, career-focused graduate business degree.
Minnesota State University Moorhead | Paseka School of Business | U.S. News & World Report | Top Management Degree | AACSB | Higher Learning Commission
Data collection completed: July 25, 2024
#3 in Minnesota
Minnesota State University, Mankato
- 120 Morris Hall, Mankato, MN - 56001
- Institution Control: Public
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Graduate Level Certificate, Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Undergraduate, Undergraduate Certificate
- Offered as: 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends
Business School Details
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 22:1
- Tuition and Fees: N/A
- Total Enrollment: 2,196
- Concentrations: Accounting, Business Analytics, Consulting, E-Commerce +21 more
- Ranking: MBAGuide
- Average GMAT Score: 621
- Graduate Salary: $77,720
- AACSB Accredited: Business
- Graduate ROI: 265%
- MBAGuide Rankings:
Online MBA Overview
Minnesota State University, Mankato's online MBA program equips students with essential tools for success in the global business economy. The AACSB-accredited program offers a flexible structure with both synchronous and asynchronous online courses, allowing students to balance their education with work and personal commitments. The curriculum emphasizes integrative, critical, and analytical thinking, with real-world applications and an executive seminar featuring business leaders and top executives. The program can be completed in as little as two years or extended up to six years, accommodating diverse student needs.
Total Credits: 34
Estimated Cost Per Unit: $838.60
Academic Year: Semester
Duration: 2 years (flexible up to 6 years)
Platform Used: Contact School for Latest Information
Accreditation: AACSB International
Online Application Deadline: Fall Start - June 1, Spring Start - November 1
GMAT Required: Optional (waived for applicants with 3.4+ GPA, graduate degree, or 5+ years professional experience)
In-Person Requirements: None
Capstone Project/Thesis: Contact School for Latest Information
Average Work Experience: 5+ years
Online Specializations: Accounting
Why Choose Minnesota State University, Mankato?
- Flexible Program Structure: Offers both synchronous and asynchronous online courses, allowing students to tailor their learning experience to their schedules.
- Real-World Application: Integrates actual business situations into the curriculum, ensuring students can apply their knowledge practically.
- Executive Seminar: Provides unique opportunities to learn from business leaders and top executives, enhancing networking and industry insights.
Minnesota State University, Mankato's online MBA program stands out for its commitment to practical, integrative learning. The program's flexible structure allows students to complete their degree in as little as two years or extend it up to six years, accommodating diverse professional and personal commitments. With its AACSB accreditation and emphasis on real-world applications, the program prepares graduates to excel in the global business landscape.
Minnesota State University, Mankato | College of Business | AACSB International | Higher Learning Commission
Data collection completed: July 25, 2024
#4 in Minnesota
Capella University
School of Business and Technology
- 225 South 6th Street, Minneapolis, MN - 55402
- Institution Control:
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Doctoral, Graduate Level Certificate, Master, Undergraduate
- Offered as: Online
Business School Details
- Student / Faculty Ratio: NAN:0
- Tuition and Fees: N/A
- Total Enrollment: N/A
- Concentrations: Health Care Management, Human Resources, Management, Project Management
- Ranking:
- Average GMAT Score: 400
- Graduate Salary: $68,784
- AACSB Accredited: N/A
- Graduate ROI: %
- MBAGuide Rankings:
Online MBA Overview
Capella University's School of Business and Technology's flexible online MBA program has a self-designed structure. This means that it allows students to customize their curriculum by choosing from a variety of business electives and graduate-level courses in IT, healthcare, and other fields. Capella's innovative FlexPath learning format enables students to progress at their own pace, potentially completing the degree in as little as 11 months for under $12,000. The program emphasizes practical skills in leadership, data storytelling, and business communication, preparing graduates for real-world business challenges.
Total Credits: 45 (12 max transfer)
Estimated Cost Per Unit: Contact School for Latest Information
Academic Year: Quarter
Duration: As little as 11 months with FlexPath
Platform Used: FlexPath or GuidedPath
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Application Deadline: Rolling
GMAT Required: No
In-Person Requirements: None
Capstone Project/Thesis: Yes - Final project
Average Work Experience: Contact School for Latest Information
Online Specializations: Self-Designed, Health Care Management, Human Resource Management, Project Management
Why Choose Capella University?
- Customizable Curriculum: Tailor your MBA with a wide range of electives and courses from various disciplines to match your career goals.
- Flexible Learning Formats: Choose between FlexPath self-paced learning or GuidedPath structured approach to fit your lifestyle and learning preferences.
- Affordable Tuition: Potential to complete the MBA in 11 months for under $12,000 through the FlexPath option, offering significant cost savings.
Capella University's MBA program emphasizes practical skill development in areas such as data analytics and strategic thinking. Its focus on competency-based education allows students to demonstrate mastery of skills directly applicable to their careers. With the option to choose between self-paced and structured learning formats, Capella caters to diverse student needs while maintaining academic rigor. The university's accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission ensures the program meets high educational standards.
Capella University | U.S. News & World Report | The Economist | MBAGuide | Higher Learning Commission
Data collection completed: July 25, 2024
How We Rank the Best Online MBA Programs in Minnesota
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.
