Washington, known for its natural beauty and innovative spirit, has a thriving economy with a GDP of $672.13 billion in 2023. Its economy is driven by technology, aerospace, agriculture, and international trade. Students from the best online MBA programs in Washington have access to leading industries and global business connections. Programs like the University of Washington’s Online MBA, Washington State University’s Online MBA, and City University of Seattle’s Online MBA offer curricula that reflect the state’s diverse economy. These programs feature concentrations in areas such as technology management, international business, and entrepreneurship, preparing students for leadership roles in the state’s key industries. Students benefit from access to major companies headquartered in Washington, including Amazon, Microsoft, Starbucks, and Boeing, even while studying online. The flexibility of these programs allows working professionals to balance their studies with demanding careers in Seattle’s fast-paced business environment.
The Seattle metropolitan area, home to tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft, is a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. The state’s strategic location on the Pacific Rim and its strong ties to Asia create unique opportunities for international business and cross-cultural collaboration. Other key industries in Washington include clean energy, life sciences, and tourism, reflecting the state’s commitment to sustainability and quality of life. MBA graduates in Washington can expect to find a wealth of career opportunities in this diverse and thriving business ecosystem.
10 Benefits of Online MBA Programs in Washington
#1 Specializations Matching Industry Needs
Washington’s online MBA programs offer specializations that align with the state’s key industries, such as technology, aerospace, and international business. For example, Washington State University offers concentrations in marketing, finance, international business, and hospitality business management, preparing students for leadership roles in these growing sectors. Similarly, Gonzaga University provides concentrations in finance and marketing, equipping students with the skills needed to excel in Washington’s diverse business ecosystem.
#2 Flexible Learning Formats
Washington’s online MBA programs offer flexible learning formats that allow students to balance their studies with work and personal commitments. Whitworth University offers a fully online MBA program that can be completed in as little as 12 months, while Washington State University provides a hybrid format that combines online coursework with occasional in-person sessions. These flexible options make it easier for working professionals to pursue an MBA without putting their careers on hold.
#3 Prestigious School Rankings
Many of Washington’s online MBA programs are offered by highly ranked institutions, adding prestige to graduates’ degrees. Gonzaga University’s MBA program is consistently ranked among the top 100 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, while Washington State University’s MBA program is ranked among the top 20 best online MBA programs for veterans.
#4 Strong Job Placement Rates
Washington’s online MBA programs boast strong job placement rates, reflecting the state’s thriving business environment. Gonzaga University reports that 95% of its MBA graduates are employed within three months of graduation, while Washington State University notes that its MBA alumni hold leadership positions at major companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Boeing.
#5 Competitive Graduate Salaries
Graduates of Washington’s online MBA programs can expect competitive salaries, thanks to the state’s strong economy and high demand for skilled business professionals. According to PayScale, the average salary for an MBA graduate in Seattle is $92,000 per year, with top earners making over $150,000 annually.
#6 Affordable Tuition Options
Despite the high quality of Washington’s online MBA programs, many offer affordable tuition options that make them accessible to a wide range of students. Washington State University’s online MBA program, for example, charges the same tuition rate for both in-state and out-of-state students, while Whitworth University offers a flat tuition rate for its entire MBA program.
#7 Experiential Learning Opportunities
Washington’s online MBA programs provide students with valuable experiential learning opportunities that allow them to apply their knowledge to real-world business challenges. Gonzaga University’s MBA program includes a capstone project that enables students to work with a real company to develop and implement a strategic plan, while Washington State University’s MBA program offers a range of internship and consulting project opportunities.
#8 Access to Industry Events and Conferences
Washington’s online MBA students benefit from access to a wide range of industry events and conferences that take place throughout the state. Seattle, in particular, is home to numerous tech and business conferences, such as the Seattle Interactive Conference and the GeekWire Summit, which provide valuable networking and learning opportunities for MBA students and graduates.
#9 Strong Alumni Networks
Washington’s online MBA programs have strong alumni networks that provide students with valuable connections and support throughout their careers. Gonzaga University, for example, has an active alumni network of over 50,000 graduates worldwide, while Washington State University’s alumni network includes over 200,000 members across the globe.
#10 Focus on Sustainability and Social Responsibility
Many of Washington’s online MBA programs place a strong emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility, reflecting the state’s commitment to environmental stewardship and ethical business practices. Whitworth University’s MBA program, for instance, includes a course on sustainable business practices, while Gonzaga University’s MBA program emphasizes the importance of social justice and responsible leadership.
The best online MBA programs in Washington have specializations tailored to the state’s key industries. Aside from that, these schools hold prestigious rankings, strong job placement rates, and competitive graduate salaries. Students also learn the skills needed to succeed in Washington’s thriving business landscape. From the tech giants of Seattle to the aerospace innovators of Everett, Washington’s online MBA graduates are well-prepared to take on leadership roles and drive positive change in their organizations and communities.
5 Best Online MBA Programs in Washington
#1 in Washington
Seattle University
Albers School of Business and Economics
PO Box 222000, Seattle, WA - 98122-1090- Institution Control: Private
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: E-MBA, Graduate Level Certificate, Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Undergraduate
- Offered as: 1-Year, Campus, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends
Business School Details
Student / Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Tuition and Fees: $54,594
Total Enrollment: 1,398
Concentrations: Accounting, Business Analytics, Economics, Finance +3 more- Ranking: MBAGuide
Average GMAT Score: 549
Graduate Salary: $87,000- AACSB Accredited: Business
- Graduate ROI: 82%
- MBAGuide Rankings:
Student / Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Tuition and Fees: $54,594
Total Enrollment: 1,398
Concentrations: Accounting, Business Analytics, Economics, Finance 
Ranking: MBAGuide
Average GMAT Score: 549
Graduate Salary: $87,000Online MBA Overview
Seattle University's Albers School of Business and Economics offers a flexible online MBA program designed to accommodate working professionals while maintaining the academic rigor of its on-campus counterpart. The program emphasizes ethical leadership, social responsibility, and practical business skills, reflecting the Jesuit values that guide the institution. Albers is known for its strong industry connections in the Seattle area, providing students with opportunities to engage with major companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Boeing. The program is AACSB-accredited and ranked among the top MBA programs in Washington.
Total Credits: 48
Estimated Cost Per Unit: $1,137
Academic Year: Quarter
Duration: 2-3 years (part-time)
Platform Used: Canvas
Accreditation: AACSB
Online Application Deadline: Rolling
GMAT Required: No (optional or waivers available)
In-Person Requirements: None (optional immersion experiences available)
Capstone Project/Thesis: Yes (Strategic Management capstone course)
Average Work Experience: 3-5 years (recommended)
Online Specializations: General MBA, Accounting, Business Analytics, Finance, Leadership
Why Choose Seattle University?
Ethical Leadership Focus
The Albers School integrates Jesuit values into its curriculum, emphasizing ethical decision-making and social responsibility. This prepares graduates to be leaders who can make a positive impact on their organizations and communities.
Flexible Learning Options
The online MBA program offers flexibility for working professionals with part-time schedules and asynchronous learning options. Students can tailor their studies to fit their personal and professional lives while benefiting from the same quality education as on-campus students.
Strong Industry Connections
Located in Seattle, a hub for major corporations like Amazon and Microsoft, Albers provides students with numerous networking opportunities. The school maintains strong ties with local businesses, giving students access to internships, mentorships, and career advancement opportunities.
Additional Highlights
Seattle University's online MBA program stands out for its focus on leadership development and real-world business applications. With small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty who are both scholars and industry professionals, students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The program's capstone project allows students to apply what they've learned to real-world business challenges, preparing them for leadership roles in their respective fields.
Seattle University | Albers School of Business and Economics | U.S. News & World Report | AACSB
#2 in Washington
Gonzaga University
School of Business Administration
- 502 East Boone Avenue, Spokane, WA - 99258-0009
- Institution Control: Private
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Undergraduate
- Offered as: Campus, Distance Education, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Partnership
Business School Details
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 12:1
- Tuition and Fees: $39,270
- Total Enrollment: 1,849
- Concentrations: Accounting, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Finance +9 more
- Ranking: MBAGuide
- Average GMAT Score: 485
- Graduate Salary: $90,753
- AACSB Accredited: Business and Accounting
- Graduate ROI: 116%
- MBAGuide Rankings:
Online MBA Overview
Gonzaga University's School of Business Administration's online MBA program is grounded on Jesuit values. The program, ranked 53rd by U.S. News & World Report in 2024, focuses on developing ethical, socially responsible business leaders. Students benefit from small class sizes, expert faculty, and a curriculum that integrates sustainability and global perspectives. The online MBA mirrors the on-campus program's quality while providing flexibility for working professionals. Gonzaga's unique offerings include an MBA in American Indian Entrepreneurship, ranked 14th nationally, and a Project Management concentration ranked 6th in its specialty.
Total Credits: 33
Estimated Cost Per Unit: $1,135
Academic Year: Semester
Duration: 1-2 years full-time, 2-4 years part-time
Platform Used: Canvas
Accreditation: AACSB
Online Application Deadline: Rolling
GMAT Required: Optional (waivers available)
In-Person Requirements: None (optional immersion experiences available)
Capstone Project/Thesis: Yes (Strategic Management capstone course)
Average Work Experience: Contact School for Latest Information
Online Specializations: General MBA, Finance, Project Management
Why Choose Gonzaga University?
- Ethical Leadership Focus: Integrates ethical decision-making and social responsibility across the curriculum, preparing students to be conscientious business leaders.
- Flexible Learning Options: Offers both online and on-campus formats, allowing students to tailor their MBA experience to their personal and professional needs.
- Strong Alumni Network: Provides access to the Gonzaga Alumni Mentor Program (GAMP), connecting students with professionals in their fields of interest.
Gonzaga University's online MBA program distinguishes itself through its commitment to Jesuit values and sustainable business practices. The program's inclusion in the "Better World MBA Program" rankings underscores its dedication to incorporating sustainability into core business courses. With a faculty comprised of both accomplished scholars and experienced professionals, Gonzaga ensures students receive a well-rounded education that blends theoretical knowledge with practical application. This unique approach, combined with comprehensive career services and a strong alumni network, positions Gonzaga's MBA graduates for success in the dynamic global business environment.
Gonzaga University | School of Business Administration | U.S. News & World Report | The Princeton Review | MBAGuide | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Data collection completed: July 26, 2024
#3 in Washington
Washington State University
- Todd Hall Addition 570, Pullman, WA - 99164-4750
- Institution Control: Public
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Doctoral, E-MBA, Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Undergraduate
- Offered as: Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends
Business School Details
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 17:1
- Tuition and Fees: N/A
- Total Enrollment: 3,652
- Concentrations: Accounting, Business Analytics, Data Analytics, Entrepreneurship +15 more
- Ranking: MBAGuide
- Average GMAT Score: 570
- Graduate Salary: $103,500
- AACSB Accredited: Business and Accounting
- Graduate ROI: 143%
- MBAGuide Rankings:
Online MBA Overview
Washington State University's Carson College of Business offers a top-ranked online MBA program that features four concentrations. This option includes the unique Hospitality Business Management concentration. WSU's online MBA ranks in the top 5% of programs nationally by U.S. News & World Report. Students benefit from a curriculum designed specifically for online learning, taught by the same expert faculty as the on-campus program. The MBA includes an optional international field study experience, allowing students to gain firsthand exposure to global markets.
Total Credits: 36-52 (depending on prior business coursework)
Estimated Cost Per Unit: $855 (in-state and out-of-state)
Academic Year: Semester
Duration: 22-29 months
Platform Used: Zoom
Accreditation: AACSB, NWCCU
Online Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
GMAT Required: Required with waivers available for qualified applicants
In-Person Requirements: None (optional international field study available)
Capstone Project/Thesis: Yes - capstone business planning course
Average Work Experience: 10 years
Online Specializations: Finance, International Business, Hospitality and Tourism, and General Track
Why Choose Washington State University?
- Global Business Focus: The curriculum integrates international perspectives and offers optional study-abroad experiences.
- Flexible Learning: Asynchronous course delivery allows working professionals to balance studies with career obligations.
- Industry-Relevant Concentrations: Specialized tracks in high-demand fields like Hospitality Business Management set graduates apart.
Washington State University's online MBA program prepares students for leadership in the global business landscape through its internationally-focused curriculum and diverse specialization options. The program's flexible structure caters to working professionals, allowing them to apply new skills immediately in their careers. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and real-world application, WSU's MBA equips graduates with the strategic thinking and leadership capabilities needed to excel in today's dynamic business environment.
Washington State University | Carson College of Business | U.S. News & World Report | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Data collection completed: July 26, 2024
#4 in Washington
Whitworth University
Whitworth University School of Business
- 534 E Spokane Falls Blvd., Spokane, WA - 99251
- Institution Control: Private for-profit
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Non-MBA, Undergraduate
- Offered as: Campus, Full-Time, Online
Business School Details
- Student / Faculty Ratio: 10:1
- Tuition and Fees: $34,560
- Total Enrollment: 437
- Concentrations: Accounting, Data Analytics, Entrepreneurship, Finance +6 more
- Ranking:
- Average GMAT Score: 670
- Graduate Salary: $64,050
- AACSB Accredited: Business
- Graduate ROI: 93%
- MBAGuide Rankings:
Online MBA Overview
Whitworth University's online MBA program offers a flexible and rigorous curriculum designed for working professionals. The program can be completed in as little as nine months or up to two years part-time, with classes available both online and in-person during evening hours. Whitworth's MBA emphasizes ethical leadership, critical thinking, and practical application of business concepts. The School of Business is accredited by AACSB International, placing it among the top 5% of business schools worldwide.
Total Credits: 36
Estimated Cost Per Unit: $1,025 (2024-25 academic year)
Academic Year: Semester
Duration: 9 months (accelerated) to 2 years (part-time)
Platform Used: Zoom, Blackboard
Accreditation: AACSB International
Online Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
GMAT Required: Yes but an analytical essay can be submitted in lieu of GMAT
In-Person Requirements: Optional (classes available online or in-person)
Capstone Project/Thesis: Contact School for Latest Information
Average Work Experience: Contact School for Latest Information
Online Specializations: Executive Leadership or Comprehensive Leadership
Why Choose Whitworth University?
- Flexible Learning Options: Students can choose between fully online, fully in-person, or a combination of both modalities for their MBA coursewor.
- Accelerated Completion: The program offers a 9-month accelerated option for full-time students, allowing for rapid career advancement.
- Ethical Focus: Coursework emphasizes ethics and critical thinking in business management, preparing graduates for responsible leadership roles.
Whitworth University's MBA program integrates faith-based learning experiences with rigorous business education for student's professional and spiritual growth. With a focus on practical application and innovation, Whitworth prepares graduates to make meaningful contributions in their communities and careers.
Whitworth University | Whitworth University School of Business | USNews.com | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Data collection completed: July 26, 2024
#5 in Washington
Eastern Washington University
- 121 Senior Hall, Spokane, WA - 99004
- Institution Control: Public
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: 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: 20:1
- Tuition and Fees: N/A
- Total Enrollment: 1,299
- Concentrations: Accounting, Data Analytics, Entrepreneurship, Finance +6 more
- Ranking: MBAGuide
- Average GMAT Score: 528
- Graduate Salary: $50,300
- AACSB Accredited: Business
- Graduate ROI: 332%
- MBAGuide Rankings:
How We Rank the Best Online MBA Programs in Washington
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.
