Missouri, located in the heartland of America, provides excellent connectivity and access to major markets. The state’s central location offers strategic logistics and supply chain management advantages. As to job opportunities, the state houses major companies such as Express Scripts, Emerson Electric, and O’Reilly Automotive. The best online MBA programs in Missouri prepare graduates, especially for the agriculture, manufacturing, and financial services sectors. Programs like those offered at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Southeast Missouri State University, and Missouri State University feature concentrations in agribusiness, supply chain management, and financial planning, reflecting the state’s economic strengths.
Additionally, Missouri’s diverse economic base and strong network of local businesses provide unparalleled opportunities for networking, internships, and career advancement in a wide range of industries. Also, the state’s affordable living costs and competitive tuition rates is another reason why its a prime destination for MBA students seeking quality education without the high price tag.
10 Benefits of Online MBA Programs in Missouri
#1 Higher Salaries
Graduates from Missouri’s online MBA programs often see significant salary increases. For instance, the University of Missouri-Kansas City reports an average graduate salary of $76,900, reflecting the high demand for skilled professionals in the state. Southeast Missouri State University and Missouri State University also boast competitive graduate salaries, making an MBA from these institutions a worthwhile investment.
#2 Specializations Matching Industry Needs
Missouri’s online MBA programs offer specializations that align with the state’s key industries. The University of Missouri-Kansas City provides concentrations in consulting and data analytics, while Missouri State University offers specializations in entrepreneurship and economics. These targeted programs ensure that graduates have the skills needed to excel in Missouri’s diverse economic landscape.
#3 Flexible Learning Formats
Flexibility is a hallmark of Missouri’s online MBA programs. Institutions like the University of Central Missouri and Drury University offer part-time and full-time online options, allowing students to tailor their studies to fit their schedules. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for working professionals who need to balance their education with their career and personal commitments.
#4 Graduate ROI
The return on investment for graduates of Missouri’s online MBA programs is impressive. Southeast Missouri State University, for example, boasts a graduate ROI of 215%, indicating that students can expect substantial financial returns on their educational investment. Missouri Western State University also offers a strong ROI, making these programs financially attractive.
#5 Duration (Accelerated Options)
Several of Missouri’s online MBA programs offer accelerated options, enabling students to complete their degrees more quickly. Missouri State University and the University of Central Missouri provide pathways that allow students to graduate in as little as 12 to 18 months, helping them to re-enter the workforce with advanced qualifications in a shorter time frame.
#6 Admission Requirements No GMAT Required
Many of Missouri’s online MBA programs do not require the GMAT for admission, making the application process more accessible. Schools like Southeast Missouri State University and Missouri Western State University offer this flexibility, allowing a broader range of students to pursue their MBA without the barrier of standardized testing.
#7 Range of Tuition for the State
Missouri’s online MBA programs are competitively priced, with tuition rates that are often lower than the national average. For example, Southeast Missouri State University’s tuition is $13,804, and Missouri Western State University’s is $12,893. These affordable rates make pursuing an MBA in Missouri a financially viable option for many students.
#8 Top Employers for Graduates
Graduates from Missouri’s online MBA programs have access to top employers in the state, including Centene Corporation, Emerson Electric, and O’Reilly Automotive. The strong presence of these major companies provides ample job opportunities for MBA graduates, enhancing their career prospects.
#9 Alumni Networks
The robust alumni networks of Missouri’s online MBA programs offer significant career support. The University of Missouri-Kansas City and Missouri State University have extensive alumni associations that provide networking opportunities, mentorship, and career guidance, helping graduates to advance in their professional journeys.
#10 Experiential Learning Opportunities
Missouri’s online MBA programs emphasize experiential learning, offering students practical experience through internships, projects, and case studies. Schools like Drury University and the University of Central Missouri integrate real-world business challenges into their curricula, ensuring that students gain hands-on experience that is directly applicable to their careers.
Missouri’s online MBA programs combine affordability, flexibility, and strong career outcomes, making them an excellent choice for prospective students. With competitive tuition rates, convenient online delivery, and high graduate salaries, these programs offer substantial value. The state’s strategic location and thriving economy further enhance the appeal, providing graduates with ample job opportunities and a strong return on investment. Whether aiming for leadership roles in major corporations or entrepreneurial ventures, Missouri’s online MBA programs equip students with the skills and networks needed to succeed.
6 Best Online MBA Programs in Missouri
#1 in Missouri
University of Missouri-Kansas City
Henry W. Bloch School of Management
5100 Rockhill Road, 225A Bloch School, Kansas City, MO - 64110-2499- Institution Control: Public
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Doctoral, Dual-MBA, E-MBA, Graduate Level Certificate, Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Undergraduate
- Offered as: Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends
Business School Details
Student / Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Tuition and Fees: N/A
Total Enrollment: 1,725
Concentrations: Accounting, Consulting, Data Analytics, Economics +17 more- Ranking: MBAGuide
Average GMAT Score: 590
Graduate Salary: $76,900- AACSB Accredited: Business
- Graduate ROI: 0%
Student / Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Tuition and Fees: N/A
Total Enrollment: 1,725
Concentrations: Accounting, Consulting, Data Analytics, Economics 
Ranking: MBAGuide
Average GMAT Score: 590
Graduate Salary: $76,900Online MBA Overview
The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) Henry W. Bloch School of Management offers a Professional MBA program that combines flexibility with strong industry connections. The program topped the Kansas City Business Journal's ranking of regional MBA programs for three consecutive years, with 429 students enrolled in Fall 2021. UMKC's MBA program adapts to meet the changing needs of working professionals, offering a hybrid learning model that allows students to switch between online and in-person classes as needed. The school's partnerships with major employers like Burns & McDonnell, Cerner, and Evergy provide students with real-world learning opportunities and strong connections to the Kansas City business community.
Total Credits: 36
Estimated Cost Per Unit: Contact School for Latest Information
Academic Year: Contact School for Latest Information
Duration: Contact School for Latest Information
Platform Used: Hybrid (online and in-person)
Accreditation: AACSB
Online Application Deadline: Aug. 1 – Fall, Dec. 15 – Spring, and May 1 – Summer
GMAT Required: Can be waived depending on eligibility
In-Person Requirements: Flexible (students can choose between online and in-person classes)
Capstone Project/Thesis: Contact School for Latest Information
Average Work Experience: Contact School for Latest Information
Online Specializations: Professional and Executive
Why Choose University of Missouri-Kansas City Henry W. Bloch School of Management?
- Strong Industry Connections: Partnerships with major Kansas City employers provide students with networking and career opportunities.
- Flexible Learning Model: Students can seamlessly switch between online and in-person classes, adapting to their schedules.
- Cutting-Edge Technology: Significant investments in classroom technology, including TV-studio-quality audio and lighting for remote students.
The UMKC Henry W. Bloch School of Management's Professional MBA program distinguishes itself through its deep integration with the Kansas City business community. The program's emphasis on experiential learning, including internships, faculty-led consulting assignments, and project-based learning, provides students with practical skills directly applicable to their careers. The school's commitment to flexibility and technological innovation, exemplified by their hybrid learning model and state-of-the-art Bloch Studio spaces, ensures that students receive a cutting-edge education tailored to their needs.
University of Missouri-Kansas City | Henry W. Bloch School of Management | AACSB | Kansas City Business Journal
Data collection completed: July 25, 2024
#2 in Missouri
Southeast Missouri State University
Donald L. Harrison College of Business
- One University Plaza, Cape Girardeau, MO - 63701-4799
- Institution Control: Public
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Non-MBA, Undergraduate
- Offered as: Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends
Business School Details
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 14:1
- Tuition and Fees: $13,804
- Total Enrollment: 1,478
- Concentrations: Accounting, Communications, Data Analytics, Economics +14 more
- Ranking: MBAGuide
- Average GMAT Score: 515
- Graduate Salary: $59,400
- AACSB Accredited: Business
- Graduate ROI: 215%
Online MBA Overview
Southeast Missouri State University's Donald L. Harrison College of Business offers an AACSB-accredited online MBA program that ranks #2 among Missouri public institutions. The program caters to professionals with diverse backgrounds, providing a Business Essentials Course for those without an undergraduate business degree. With evening classes and flexible part-time or full-time options, SEMO's MBA accommodates working professionals. The curriculum includes opportunities for international experiences through short-term overseas programs.
Total Credits: 33
Estimated Cost Per Unit: $365 (in-state and out-of-state)
Academic Year: Semester
Duration: Contact School for Latest Information
Platform Used: Contact School for Latest Information
Accreditation: AACSB
Online Application Deadline: Rolling
GMAT Required: None
In-Person Requirements: None
Capstone Project/Thesis: Yes - Strategic Decision Making course (BA650)
Average Work Experience: Contact School for Latest Information
Online Specializations: Health Administration, Entrepreneurship and Corporate Innovation, Acccounting
Why Choose Southeast Missouri State University?
- Affordable Excellence: SEMO's MBA program offers high-quality education at a competitive price point of $365 per credit hour.
- Flexible Admission: The program welcomes students with diverse backgrounds, including those without business degrees.
- Real-World Focus: Courses emphasize practical application, with opportunities for internships and teaching assistantships.
Southeast Missouri State University's online MBA program combines affordability with AACSB accreditation, making it a top choice for value-conscious students. The program's flexible admission criteria and evening class schedule cater to working professionals seeking career advancement. With options for international experiences and a curriculum focused on practical business applications, SEMO prepares graduates for success in today's global business environment.
Southeast Missouri State University | Donald L. Harrison College of Business | U.S. News & World Report | The Princeton Review | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Data collection completed: July 25, 2024
#3 in Missouri
Missouri State University
College of Business Administration
- Glass Hall 400, Springfield, MO - 65897
- Institution Control: Public
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Graduate Level Certificate, Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Undergraduate, Undergraduate Certificate
- Offered as: Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Partnership, Weekends
Business School Details
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 25:1
- Tuition and Fees: $15,108
- Total Enrollment: 3,997
- Concentrations: Accounting, Data Analytics, Economics, Entrepreneurship +15 more
- Ranking: MBAGuide
- Average GMAT Score: 643
- Graduate Salary: $62,400
- AACSB Accredited: Business and Accounting
- Graduate ROI: 207%
Online MBA Overview
Missouri State University's online MBA program offers exceptional value and quality, ranking 14th on College Consensus' 2022 list of most affordable online programs. The AACSB-accredited program caters to working professionals, with about 50% of MBA students pursuing their degree online. Students benefit from a flexible curriculum that can be completed in 34 credit hours, allowing for full-time or part-time study. The program's emphasis on real-world applicability is evident through its state-of-the-art facilities, including finance and trading simulation labs, entrepreneurship and sales labs, and an advertising agency lab.
Total Credits: 34 credit hours
Estimated Cost Per Unit: Contact School for Latest Information
Academic Year: Contact School for Latest Information
Duration: Full-Time: 1-2 years, Part-Time: 2-3 years
Platform Used: Contact School for Latest Information
Accreditation: AACSB International
Online Application Deadline: Contact School for Latest Information
GMAT Required: Requirement temporarily suspended
In-Person Requirements: None (100% online)
Capstone Project/Thesis: Yes, in lieu of the required seminar course and one elective
Average Work Experience: Contact School for Latest Information
Online Specializations: Executive
Why Choose Missouri State University?
- Elite Accreditation: AACSB International accreditation places Missouri State University among the top 10% of U.S. universities, ensuring high-quality business education.
- Career-Focused Curriculum: The program equips students with skills for career advancement through mentorship programs, experiential learning, and networking opportunities.
- Flexible Learning: The 100% online format accommodates working professionals, allowing them to balance their education with career and personal commitments.
Missouri State University's online MBA program's focus on real-world applicability is evident through its state-of-the-art facilities and emphasis on experiential learning. With the flexibility to complete the degree in 1-3 years, students can tailor their education to fit their individual needs and career goals.
Missouri State University | College of Business Administration | AACSB International
Data collection completed: Thursday, July 25, 2024
#4 in Missouri
Missouri Western State University
Steven L. Craig School of Business
- 4525 Downs Drive, St. Joseph, MO - 64507
- Institution Control: Public
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Masters in Business, Undergraduate
- Offered as: Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends
Business School Details
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 14:1
- Tuition and Fees: $12,893
- Total Enrollment: 463
- Concentrations: Accounting, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Finance +8 more
- Ranking: MBAGuide
- Average GMAT Score: 552
- Graduate Salary: $51,750
- AACSB Accredited: Business
- Graduate ROI: 201%
Online MBA Overview
Missouri Western State University's Steven L. Craig School of Business offers an AACSB-accredited online MBA program that focuses on applied academic education to develop students' analytical and decision-making abilities. The program is designed to accommodate working professionals and recent graduates, with multiple admissions paths that don't necessarily require a GMAT score. The online MBA can be completed in as little as 12 months for full-time students, with courses delivered through Canvas course management software.
Total Credits: 30 credit hours (10 classes)
Estimated Cost Per Unit: Around one year
Academic Year: Semester
Duration: 12 months (full-time)
Platform Used: Canvas
Accreditation: AACSB
Online Application Deadline: Contact School for Latest Information
GMAT Required: Optional (multiple admissions paths available)
In-Person Requirements: None
Capstone Project/Thesis: Yes, required for graduation
Average Work Experience: Contact School for Latest Information
Online Specializations: General MBA, Engineering Technology Management, and Forensic Accounting
Why Choose Missouri Western State University?
- Applied Learning Focus: As the state-designated applied learning university, Missouri Western emphasizes hands-on business experience through its Community to Classroom Program.
- Flexible Program Structure: The online MBA offers two sessions per semester, allowing full-time students to complete the program in just 12 months.
- AACSB Accreditation: The program holds prestigious AACSB accreditation, ensuring high-quality business education.
The Steven L. Craig School of Business at Missouri Western State University delivers a practical, industry-focused MBA education. The program's emphasis on applied learning through the Community to Classroom Program provides students with real-world business experience, setting it apart from traditional MBA offerings. With its AACSB accreditation and flexible online format, Missouri Western's MBA program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to advance their careers in today's competitive business landscape.
Missouri Western State University | Steven L. Craig School of Business | AACSB
Data collection completed: July 25, 2024
#5 in Missouri
University of Central Missouri
Harmon College of Business and Professional Studies
- PO Box 800, Warrensburg, MO - 64093
- Institution Control: Public
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Doctoral, Graduate Level Certificate, Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Undergraduate, Undergraduate Certificate
- Offered as: Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Off Campus, Online, Part-Time, Weekends
Business School Details
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 19:1
- Tuition and Fees: N/A
- Total Enrollment: 615
- Concentrations: Accounting, Finance, International Business, Management +4 more
- Ranking: MBAGuide
- Average GMAT Score: 473
- Graduate Salary: $52,900
- AACSB Accredited: Business and Accounting
- Graduate ROI: %
Online MBA Overview
The University of Central Missouri's Harmon College of Business and Professional Studies offers a highly flexible and affordable online MBA program. Accredited by AACSB International, this program can be completed in as few as 12 months and boasts a 96% job placement rate for graduates. With 10 concentration areas available, students can tailor their education to specific career goals while solving real-life business challenges. The program's quality and accessibility have earned it national recognition, ranking 55th among 108 institutions in Fortune Education's 2022 online MBA rankings.
Total Credits: 33
Estimated Cost Per Unit: $500 (out-of-state)
Academic Year: Semester
Duration: As few as 12 months
Platform Used: Contact School for Latest Information
Accreditation: AACSB International
Online Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
GMAT Required: No
In-Person Requirements: None
Capstone Project/Thesis: Contact School for Latest Information
Average Work Experience: Contact School for Latest Information
Online Specializations: Airport Management, Finance, General Business, Healthcare Administration, Interdisciplinary/Individualized, International Business, Management and Organizational Leadership, Marketing, Public Relations, and Sports Business.
Why Choose University of Central Missouri?
- Exceptional Value: UCM's online MBA offers high-quality education at one of the nation's most affordable tuition rates.
- Industry-Relevant Curriculum: The program provides hands-on experience through real-life business challenges, preparing graduates for leadership positions.
- Impressive Outcomes: With a 96% job placement rate, UCM's MBA program demonstrates its effectiveness in career advancement.
The University of Central Missouri's online MBA program's AACSB accreditation and consistent national rankings reflect its quality and value for money. With options for synchronous or asynchronous online learning and 10 concentration areas, UCM caters to diverse student needs while maintaining a focus on practical, applicable business skills.
University of Central Missouri | Harmon College of Business and Professional Studies | Fortune Education | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Data collection completed: July 25, 2024
#6 in Missouri
Drury University
Breech School of Business Administration and Economics
- 900 North Benton Avenue, Springfield, MO - 65802
- Institution Control: Private
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Graduate Level Certificate, Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Undergraduate, Undergraduate Certificate
- Offered as: Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends
Business School Details
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 12:1
- Tuition and Fees: $23,760
- Total Enrollment: 174
- Concentrations: Accounting, Economics, Finance, General Business +3 more
- Ranking: MBAGuide
- Average GMAT Score: 509
- Graduate Salary: $59,400
- AACSB Accredited: Business
- Graduate ROI: 125%
Online MBA Overview
Starting Fall 2024, Drury University's Breech School of Business Administration and Economics' online MBA program will be fully online. This will allows students to balance work and education. The curriculum emphasizes both technical business acumen and essential leadership skills, preparing graduates for success in a rapidly changing business landscape. Notably, Drury has eliminated the GMAT requirement for qualified candidates, streamlining the application process. With a high 73% employment rate among enrolled students and AACSB accreditation, Drury's MBA program combines academic excellence with real-world applicability.
Total Credits: Contact School for Latest Information
Estimated Cost Per Unit: $792
Academic Year: Contact School for Latest Information
Duration: 2 years
Platform Used: Contact School for Latest Information
Accreditation: AACSB
Online Application Deadline: August 10
GMAT Required: Not required for students who meet specific criteria
In-Person Requirements: Fully online starting fall 2024
Capstone Project/Thesis: Contact School for Latest Information
Average Work Experience: 4 or more
Online Specializations: Contact School for Latest Information
Why Choose Drury University?
- Innovative MBA Ventures Program: Two-year curriculum focused on developing business leadership skills in the first year and applying them in real-world scenarios in the second year[2].
- All-Inclusive Pricing: $792 per credit hour covers tuition, fees, and all course materials, including textbooks and software licenses.
- Group Discount: 10% tuition reduction for employers with three or more employees concurrently enrolled in the MBA Program.
Drury University's MBA program is tailored to equip leaders with the skills necessary to thrive in a dynamic business environment. The cohort-based learning model fosters collaboration and networking opportunities among peers. With its commitment to flexible learning experiences and the transition to a fully online format, Drury is adapting to meet the evolving needs of modern business professionals.
Drury University | USNews.com | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Data collection completed: July 25, 2024
How We Rank the Best Online MBA Programs in Missouri
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.
Find Affordable Online MBA Programs Now Accepting Missouri Applicants
Sources Used In Compiling The Best Online MBA Programs in Missouri
Business School Data Sources from
See all data sources including 756 College and University Programs
Find the Best Online MBA Programs State-by-State
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
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.
