2025 Best MBA Programs in Ethics – GMAT Scores, Salaries, Rankings

MBA Programs in Ethics
Tuition, ROI, Graduate Salary, GMAT Requirements

10 Best Ranked | Interactive Table | Salaries | Tuition | ROI | GMAT | Alumni Networking | How We Rank

Executive Summary for MBA Programs in Ethics MBA Programs

The ranking team at MBAGuide.org, evaluated 21 Ethics MBA programs. Here is a summary of our comprehensive findings. Explore the details about the Ethics MBA, compare schools, find states and cities where the degree is offered.

1. Comprehensive comparisons, data and analysis – MBAGuide conducted an in-depth analysis of 21 AACSB-accredited campus MBA programs in Ethics to find the top programs in the country.
2. Ranking metrics you care about – such as average starting salaries, tuition fees, return on investment (ROI), GMAT scores, alumni networks, student-to-faculty ratios, and more with no paywall.
3. Detailed school profiles of Ethics MBA programs their strengths, faculty expertise, alumni networks to help align your program choice

Best 10 MBA Programs in Ethics

Harvard University

Harvard Business School

Location:

• Boston

,

• MA

Control: Private for-profit

Academic Year: Quarter

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter

• Tuition: $149,820
• Graduate Salary: $175,000
• Graduate ROI: 17%
• GMAT Required: Yes
• Avg. GMAT: 730
• Student / Faculty Ratio: 7:1
• Enrollment: 1945

Degree Level(s):

• Doctoral
• ·
• MBA

Offered As:

• Campus
• ·
• Full-Time

• Concentrations: 24

• Consulting
• Data Analytics
• E-Commerce
• Economics
• Entrepreneurship
• Ethics
• Finance
• General Business
• Healthcare Administration
• Human Resources
• Information Systems
• Leadership
• Management
• Marketing
• Nonprofit
• Organizational Behavior
• Public Administration
• Real Estate
• Science and Technology
• Sports Management
• Statistics
• Supply Chain
• Taxation

• Best in:

• Best MBA or Masters Program in Massachusetts

• Rankings

• City Rank: 1
• State Rank: 1
• National Rank: 3
• Online Rank: Not Ranked

• Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
• Better than State Average: GMAT
• Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Wisconsin School of Business

Location:

• Madison

,

• WI

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter

• Tuition: $55,575
• Graduate Salary: $118,983
• Graduate ROI: 114%
• GMAT Required: Optional
• Avg. GMAT: 665
• Student / Faculty Ratio: 12:1
• Enrollment: 4414

Degree Level(s):

• Doctoral
• ·
• E-MBA
• ·
• Master
• ·
• MBA
• ·
• Undergraduate

Offered As:

• Campus
• ·
• Evenings
• ·
• Full-Time
• ·
• Online
• ·
• Part-Time
• ·
• Partnership
• ·
• Weekends

• Concentrations: 21

• Accounting
• Actuarial Science
• Arts
• Consulting
• Corporate Finance
• Data Analytics
• Entrepreneurship
• Ethics
• Finance
• General Business
• Global Management
• Human Resources
• Information Systems
• Insurance
• International Business
• Management
• Marketing
• Operations Management
• Other
• Real Estate
• Supply Chain

• Best in:

• Most Affordable Online MBA or Masters in Wisconsin
• Best MBA or Masters Program in Wisconsin
• Best Online MBA or Masters in Wisconsin
• Best DBA Program in Each State
• BBA All BBA Each State

• Rankings

• City Rank: 1
• State Rank: 1
• National Rank: 5
• Online Rank: 3

• Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
• Better than State Average: GMAT
• Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Kenan-Flagler Business School

Location:

• Chapel Hill

,

• NC

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter

• Tuition: $100,218
• Graduate Salary: $133,517
• Graduate ROI: 33%
• GMAT Required: Yes
• Avg. GMAT: 706
• Student / Faculty Ratio: 10:1
• Enrollment: 2820

Degree Level(s):

• Doctoral
• ·
• E-MBA
• ·
• Master
• ·
• MBA
• ·
• Undergraduate

Offered As:

• Campus
• ·
• Distance Education
• ·
• Evenings
• ·
• Full-Time
• ·
• Online
• ·
• Partnership
• ·
• Weekends

• Concentrations: 14

• Entrepreneurship
• Ethics
• Finance
• General Business
• Healthcare Administration
• Information Systems
• Leadership
• Management
• Marketing
• Operations Management
• Organizational Behavior
• Project Management
• Real Estate
• Supply Chain

• Best in:

• Best MBA or Masters Program in North Carolina
• Best Online MBA or Masters in North Carolina
• BBA All BBA Each State

• Rankings

• City Rank: 1
• State Rank: 1
• National Rank: 7
• Online Rank: 4

• Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
• Better than State Average: GMAT
• Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

Columbia University

Columbia Business School

Location:

• New York

,

• NY

Control: Private

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter

• Tuition: $176,600
• Graduate Salary: $162,099
• Graduate ROI: -8%
• GMAT Required: Yes
• Avg. GMAT: 732
• Student / Faculty Ratio: 6:1
• Enrollment: 4036

Degree Level(s):

• Doctorial
• ·
• E-MBA
• ·
• Master
• ·
• MBA

Offered As:

• Campus
• ·
• Full-Time

• Concentrations: 13

• Accounting
• Economics
• Entrepreneurship
• Ethics
• Healthcare Administration
• Information Systems
• Leadership
• Management
• Marketing
• Nonprofit
• Operations Management
• Real Estate
• Science and Technology

• Best in:

• Best MBA or Masters Program in New York
• Best DBA Program in Each State

• Rankings

• City Rank: 1
• State Rank: 1
• National Rank: 15
• Online Rank: Not Ranked

• Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
• Better than State Average: GMAT
• Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

Georgetown University

McDonough School of Business

Location:

• Washington

,

• DC

Control: Private

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter

• Tuition: $124,814
• Graduate Salary: $138,552
• Graduate ROI: 11%
• GMAT Required: Yes
• Avg. GMAT: 697
• Student / Faculty Ratio: 12:1
• Enrollment: 3058

Degree Level(s):

• E-MBA
• ·
• Master
• ·
• MBA
• ·
• Undergraduate

Offered As:

• 1-Year
• ·
• Campus
• ·
• Distance Education
• ·
• Evenings
• ·
• Full-Time
• ·
• Off Campus
• ·
• Online
• ·
• Part-Time
• ·
• Partnership
• ·
• Weekends

• Concentrations: 17

• Accounting
• Corporate Finance
• Data Analytics
• E-Commerce
• Ethics
• Finance
• General Business
• Global Management
• International Business
• Leadership
• Management
• Marketing
• Nonprofit
• Operations Management
• Other
• Real Estate
• Science and Technology

• Best in:

• Most Affordable Online MBA or Masters in District of Columbia
• Best Online MBA or Masters in District of Columbia
• BBA All BBA Each State

• Rankings

• City Rank: 1
• State Rank: 1
• National Rank: 20
• Online Rank: 10

• Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
• Better than State Average: GMAT
• Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

University of California, Berkeley

Haas School of Business

Location:

• Berkeley

,

• CA

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter

• Tuition: $139,628
• Graduate Salary: $152,831
• Graduate ROI: 9%
• GMAT Required: Yes
• Avg. GMAT: 729
• Student / Faculty Ratio: 19:1
• Enrollment: 3068

Degree Level(s):

• Doctoral
• ·
• E-MBA
• ·
• Master
• ·
• MBA
• ·
• Undergraduate

Offered As:

• Evenings
• ·
• Full-Time
• ·
• Part-Time
• ·
• Weekends

• Concentrations: 22

• Consulting
• Data Analytics
• E-Commerce
• Economics
• Entrepreneurship
• Ethics
• Finance
• General Business
• Healthcare Administration
• Information Systems
• International Business
• Leadership
• Management
• Manufacturing
• Marketing
• Nonprofit
• Operations Management
• Public Administration
• Quantitative Methods
• Real Estate
• Science and Technology
• Supply Chain

• Best in:

• Best MBA or Masters Program in California

• Rankings

• City Rank: 1
• State Rank: 3
• National Rank: 23
• Online Rank: Not Ranked

• Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
• Better than State Average: GMAT
• Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

American University

Kogod School of Business

Location:

• Washington

,

• DC

Control: Private

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter

• Tuition: $98,282
• Graduate Salary: $105,666
• Graduate ROI: 8%
• GMAT Required: No
• Avg. GMAT: 668
• Student / Faculty Ratio: 7:1
• Enrollment: 1538

Degree Level(s):

• Master
• ·
• MBA
• ·
• Undergraduate

Offered As:

• Campus
• ·
• Distance Education
• ·
• Full-Time
• ·
• Online
• ·
• Part-Time

• Concentrations: 18

• Accounting
• Arts
• Corporate Finance
• Cybersecurity
• Data Analytics
• Entrepreneurship
• Ethics
• Finance
• General Business
• Global Management
• Information Systems
• Insurance
• International Business
• Law
• Management
• Marketing
• Other
• Real Estate
• Taxation

• Best in:

• Most Affordable Online MBA or Masters in District of Columbia
• Best Online MBA or Masters in District of Columbia

• Rankings

• City Rank: 2
• State Rank: 2
• National Rank: 36
• Online Rank: 18

• Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
• Better than State Average: GMAT
• Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

The George Washington University

School of Business

Location:

• Washington

,

• DC

Control: Private

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter

• Tuition: $113,090
• Graduate Salary: $115,951
• Graduate ROI: 3%
• GMAT Required: No
• Avg. GMAT: 669
• Student / Faculty Ratio: 12:1
• Enrollment: 2964

Degree Level(s):

• Doctoral
• ·
• Master
• ·
• MBA
• ·
• Undergraduate

Offered As:

• Campus
• ·
• Distance Education
• ·
• Evenings
• ·
• Full-Time
• ·
• Off Campus
• ·
• Part-Time
• ·
• Partnership
• ·
• Weekends

• Concentrations: 21

• Accounting
• Communications
• Corporate Finance
• Data Analytics
• Education
• Entrepreneurship
• Ethics
• Finance
• General Business
• Global Management
• Hospitality Management
• Human Resources
• Information Systems
• Insurance
• International Business
• Leadership
• Management
• Manufacturing
• Marketing
• Other
• Sports Management

• Best in:

• Best DBA Program in Each State

• Rankings

• City Rank: 3
• State Rank: 3
• National Rank: 38
• Online Rank: 13

• Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
• Better than State Average: GMAT
• Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

Loyola University Chicago

Quinlan School of Business

Location:

• Chicago

,

• IL

Control: Private

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter

• Tuition: $73,375
• Graduate Salary: $89,000
• Graduate ROI: 21%
• GMAT Required: Yes
• Avg. GMAT: 590
• Student / Faculty Ratio: 13:1
• Enrollment: 2567

Degree Level(s):

• E-MBA
• ·
• Master
• ·
• MBA
• ·
• Undergraduate

Offered As:

• Campus
• ·
• Evenings
• ·
• Full-Time
• ·
• Part-Time
• ·
• Partnership
• ·
• Weekends

• Concentrations: 18

• Accounting
• Corporate Finance
• Data Analytics
• Economics
• Entrepreneurship
• Ethics
• Finance
• General Business
• Global Management
• Healthcare Administration
• Human Resources
• Information Systems
• International Business
• Law
• Management
• Marketing
• Sports Management
• Supply Chain

• Best in:

• Best MBA or Masters Program in illinois

• Rankings

• City Rank: 3
• State Rank: 5
• National Rank: 101
• Online Rank: 76

• Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
• Better than State Average: GMAT
• Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

Drexel University

Bennett S. LeBow College of Business

Location:

• Philadelphia

,

• PA

Control: Private

Academic Year: Quarter

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter

• Tuition: $59,241
• Graduate Salary: $87,061
• Graduate ROI: 47%
• GMAT Required: Optional
• Avg. GMAT: 570
• Student / Faculty Ratio: 17:1
• Enrollment: 3670

Degree Level(s):

• Doctoral
• ·
• E-MBA
• ·
• Master
• ·
• MBA
• ·
• Undergraduate

Offered As:

• Campus
• ·
• Distance Education
• ·
• Evenings
• ·
• Full-Time
• ·
• Online
• ·
• Part-Time
• ·
• Weekends

• Concentrations: 23

• Accounting
• Consulting
• Corporate Finance
• Data Analytics
• Economics
• Entrepreneurship
• Ethics
• Finance
• General Business
• Global Management
• Information Systems
• International Business
• Law
• Leadership
• Management
• Marketing
• Operations Management
• Organizational Behavior
• Other
• Real Estate
• Sports Management
• Supply Chain
• Taxation

• Best in:

• Best MBA or Masters Program in Pennsylvania
• Best Online MBA or Masters in Pennsylvania

• Rankings

• City Rank: 3
• State Rank: 9
• National Rank: 127
• Online Rank: 88

• Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
• Better than State Average: GMAT
• Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

Interactive Table of the Best Ranked MBA Programs in Ethics

Easily sort the interactive table below to find the best Ethics MBA programs by Rank, School Name, ROI, Tuition, Average Starting Salary, and Campus or Online to find and to compare MBA programs in Ethics. Click on any school for a comprehensive school profile.

An MBA program in Ethics will cost you between $9,846.00 to $176,600.00.

• Number of Programs Offering Ethics MBAs: 21
• Average GMAT Score for Ethics MBA Programs: 613
• Average In-State Tuition for Ethics MBA Programs: $68,262.95
• Average Graduate Salary for Ethics MBA Programs: $98,568
• Average ROI for Ethics MBA Programs: 141%

Compare Ethics MBA Program Averages vs Campus

Read about our ranking methodology.

What is the Average MBA Salary for Ethics Graduates?

Though it’s not the only factor, compensation is an important consideration for individuals considering obtaining an MBA degree. Salaries for graduates with master’s degrees in Ethics can be significantly higher than those of graduates with only a bachelor’s degree. In addition, advance salary projections from the US Department of Labor show that average MBA salaries are expected to increase by 13.5% each year through the year 2028 with an annual need of 99,000 new managers needed each year.

MBA salaries differs wildly depending on the program you chose, the industry you enter and the experience you have. After earning an MBA from University of North Georgia, the average MBA graduate annual salary is $56,500 . A degree from Harvard University, will provide an annual salary of $175,000.

Average MBA starting salary for graduates from accredited programs is $98,568 with the lowest of starting of $56,500 and the highest reported starting salary of $175,000.

Average Graduate Salaries for In-Person Ethics MBA Programs

• Average Ethics: $98,568
• Lowest Ethics: $56,500
• Highest Ethics: $175,000

Average Salary for Graduate of MBA Programs in Ethics Programs – Interactive Table

Easily sort the interactive table below to find the best Ethics MBA programs by Starting Salary, and Campus or Online to find and to compare MBA programs in Ethics. Click on any school for a comprehensive school profile.

What is the Average In-Person MBA Tuition for Ethics Programs?

If you plan on attending an MBA program, it’s best to start thinking about fiscal responsibility. A prospective B-Student needs to weigh their tuition options. An AACSB-accredited MBA program can pave the way for a great starting salary or career advancement. An MBA program can provide the flexibility of completing a program while being employed in your respective career.

The average in-state tuition for an MBA in Ethics is $68,262.95 compared to an average campus program Ethics is $68,262.95 .

The lowest AACSB tuition rate at $9,846.00 from University of North Georgia.

The highest AACSB tuition rate is $176,600.00 from Columbia University.

Average Tuition for In-Person MBA Programs in Ethics

• Average: $68,262.95
• Lowest: $9,846.00 from University of North Georgia
• Highest: $176,600.00 from Columbia University

Interactive Table – Tuition for MBA Programs in Ethics Programs

Easily sort the interactive table below to find the best Ethics MBA programs by Tuition to find and to compare MBA programs in Ethics. Click on any school for a comprehensive school profile.

What is the Average ROI for MBA Programs in Ethics?

Choosing an MBA program requires more than a glance at the school’s reputation or curriculum. The return on investment (ROI) should take center stage in your evaluation. This measurement reveals the potential value derived from your tuition investment, putting key factors such as starting salary and career progression under the microscope.

By scrutinizing the ROI, you’re not just making a decision—you’re making an informed one. This approach will ensure the selection of an MBA program that provides the most bang for your buck. Checking the ROI might not be an afterthought; it could be the game-changer in your MBA journey.

For MBA programs in across the U.S., the ROI ranges from -8% to 651%.The lowest MBA ROI of -8% is from the program at Columbia University.The highest MBA ROI of 651% is offered by Columbus State University.On average, MBA programs across the U.S. have an ROI of 186%.

Interactive Table – ROI for MBA Programs in Ethics Programs

Easily sort the interactive table below to find the best Ethics MBA programs by ROI to find and to compare MBA programs in Ethics. Click on any school for a comprehensive school profile.

ROI for MBA Programs

• Average: 186%
• Lowest: -8%
• Highest: 651%

What is the Average GMAT Score Needed for an MBA Program in Ethics?

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized examination used by MBA schools to assess their applicant pool. The test is strategically designed to measure an applicant’s analytical, verbal, writing and mathematical skills. The GMAT is used as a predictor of success in MBA programs and tests one’s ability to successfully handle the advanced quantitative and qualitative study of business and management.

Even though some B-Schools may not require a GMAT Scores, there’s a good chance that a highly-competitive MBA program does require the GMAT. With that being said, average GMAT Scores for in-person MBA programs in Ethics is 613 with a highest of 732 and the lowest of 485

The average GMAT score needed for a Ethics MBA program from an institution is between 485 from University of Houston-Clear Lake to 732 from Columbia University. The average GMAT scores for Ethics MBA programs is 613.

It’s important to note that not all MBA programs require a GMAT Score for admissions, but most reputable programs do. With that being said, if you have your eye on a list of competitive programs, it’s best to boost your GMAT Score accordingly. Outside of a solid GMAT Score, B-School admissions departments look at a candidate’s undergraduate GPA, professional experience, letters of recommendation, CV, and personal statement. A strong undergraduate performance may offset a sub-part GMAT Score. The average GMAT Score for on-campus MBA programs in Ethics is a 613.10 compared to an average MBA program score of 613.10. It is recommended that each B-School applicant take a GMAT diagnostic test in order to determine whether or not further study and/or a prep course is needed to boost your score.

Average GMAT Score for MBA Programs in Ethics

• Average: 613
• Lowest: 485
• Highest: 732

No GMAT or GRE: Best MBA Programs in Ethics

More than 233 AACSB accredited MBA programs do not require their applicants to take GMAT exam. Many well-known programs such as the University of Michigan and the University of California, Los Angeles no longer require the exam. If you are unsure where you would like to take your program, then you should take the GMAT sooner rather than later so you don’t lose time meeting the score requirement of a program.

Alumni from Schools Offering an MBA in Ethics

There are pros and cons when considering the size of your MBA in Accounting program. Larger, more diverse student populations, may lend itself to greater networking and job placement opportunities; whereas smaller programs may provide for more meaningful interactions with fellow classmates.

The importance of networking, whether it’s by way of campus job fairs, student organization members, or faculty mentorship, should not be understated when considering an MBA program. The average MBA enrollment size has a direct impact on your studies, your job prospects, your ability to define your career goals and after graduation connections.

Every B-School has a strategy behind their enrollment sizes. If a prospective B-Student is looking for networking opportunities, wants to attend job fairs, and plans on joining student organizations, B-School enrollment size plays an important role in the decision making process. For the B-Student interested in the smaller cohort-style classroom experience and thrive with face-to-face collaboration with their professors, a manageable enrollment size is the preferred option.

For Ethics MBA programs, the range for full-time enrollment is between 13 and 712. For part-time enrollment, the range is between : 11.00 and : 728.00.

Average Enrollment for MBA Programs Offering an MBA in Ethics

• Lowest: 13 from University of North Georgia
• Highest: 712 from The George Washington University
• Average: 259 from 21 MBA Programs.

Student / Faculty Ratio for MBA Programs in Ethics

For most students, their professors are the first exposure to the business world. They are normally practitioners in the field and have successful risen to the top of their respective careers. B-School Ethics Professors can guide you toward a specific concentration, provide the latest industry trends, and put you on the right track, career-wise. The Student/Faculty ratio is important to those interested in building a lasting relationship with their professor. To use them as a networking opportunity and an advisor.

Top 10 Concentrations Available from Schools Also Offering an Degree in Ethics?

Highly competitive B-Schools recruit part-time and full-time professors that are both academic and industry influencers. They are the subject matter experts in their respective concentrations. To meet the diverse needs of Ethics businesses, MBA programs here have risen to the challenge by offering you an array of more than 47 MBA concentrations including:

• Ethics: 21
• Finance: 19
• Information Systems: 18
• Marketing: 18
• General Business: 18
• Management: 18
• Accounting: 16
• Data Analytics: 15
• Corporate Finance: 14
• Entrepreneurship: 14

Here are the top schools offering the widest variety of concentrations to choose from:

• David B. O’Maley College of Business: 30
• Nova Southeastern University: 25
• University of Cincinnati: 24
• Suffolk University: 23
• Drexel University: 23
• Temple University: 23
• Harvard University: 23
• University of Baltimore: 22
• The Ohio State University: 22
• Georgia State University: 22

The Importance of MBA Accreditation for MBA Programs

The importance of accreditation can’t be underestimated. For many, knowing your school is accredited by the AACSB and regionally accredited by the US Department of Education is enough assurance that you will receive a quality education, where credits are more likely to transfer, and you will be qualified for loans, grants, and scholarships.

AACSB accreditation is considered to be the gold standard in business school credentialing. Established to promote high-quality business education in the U.S., AACSB members developed a stringent accreditation process. Members are held accountable for following an established business education framework set forth by the AACSB. With that comes MBA degrees conferrals that are widely recognized by Fortune 500 companies. This results in lucrative job opportunities.

MBA Program Options Available for Ethics MBA Programs

Options for earning your Ethics MBA have never been more flexible. Ethics MBA programs have become adept at offering effective alternatives for you to earn your MBA, no matter your life situation or schedule.

There are 21 Ethics accredited MBA programs. 1 private and 10 public schools offering Ethics MBA programs.

Number of Award Earned for MBA Programs Offering an Ethics Degree

The ranking of MBA programs is certainly not an exact science and plenty of subjective reasoning and biases come into play. We offer insights into ranking as another way to evaluate a potential MBA program.

Of the 21 accredited MBA programs offered in Ethics, 20 of them have been recognized by at least one distinguished publication MBAGuide, PQ, US News, Forbes, BW, FT and Economist garnering an award as one of the best MBA programs in the country.

• University of California, Berkeley: 7
• The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: 7
• Harvard University: 7
• Georgetown University: 7
• University of Wisconsin-Madison: 7
• Columbia University: 7
• The George Washington University: 7
• American University: 4
• Drexel University: 3
• University of Houston-Clear Lake: 1
• Florida State University: 1
• Illinois Institute of Technology: 1
• Illinois State University: 1
• Loyola University Chicago: 1
• University of North Georgia: 1
• University of West Florida: 1
• Clark University: 1
• Columbus State University: 1
• University of Detroit Mercy: 1
• San Francisco State University: 1

Publications and the number of awards granted for an MBA degree in Ethics :

• MBAGuide: 20
• US News: 8
• Forbes: 8
• BW: 8
• FT: 7
• Economist: 7

How We Rank the Best MBA Programs in Ethics

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.

What is an MBA in Ethics?

Ethical leadership takes on many forms. For most organizations, ethical leadership is built within the company’s mission statement. Compliance managers, for example, are the safeguards of an organization. They protect owners, employees, and stakeholders from unlawful activities during day-to-day business activities. An ethics committee is usually made up of company leaders from various departments. They are responsible for developing a corporate culture beyond boosting the company’s bottom line. An MBA in Ethics provides B-Students with the tools needed to run an organization ethically.

Ethics managers prevent organizations from violating company-wide policies while maintaining ethical standards. Ethical managers train other employees to adopt and abide by the moral code the company has adopted. They are the ardent defenders of the employee handbook and handle the majority of the new employee training. They are the perfect combination of HR manager, C-level executive, and in-house attorney. More importantly, they lead by example. They believe in corporate social responsibility in and outside the workplace. Those pursuing an MBA in Ethics will have a solid foundation in business will specialized coursework in ethics.

The need for ethical decision-making is critical to a company’s longevity. An MBA in Ethics will provide B-Students with the tools needed for managing the most pressing moral, social, political and environmental issues in and outside the workplace. Ethics and Compliance managers help shape the identity of a business, whether it’s implementing a corporate social responsibility strategy or aligning the new hire training with the company’s overall mission statement.

With C-Level executives at the forefront of scandal and corporate corruption running ramped across all business sectors, the need for ethics officers is at an all-time high. MBA programs are designed to be at the forefront of industry change. Ethical leadership skills built into MBA programs can give students a leg up in the world of business. B-Students are provided with the skills to run an organization effectively and at the same time, limit litigation from employees, customers, vendors, and business partners.

What’s the Career Outlook for an MBA in Ethics?

Whether it’s Enron, WorldCom, Tyco or Bernie Madoff, recent scandals over the past two decades have created a need for ethical leadership in Fortune 500 companies. From abiding by new tax reform policies to implementing the latest in employment law, a company needs to be on the cutting-edge of ethical decision making. Employees are looking to align their careers with socially-responsible companies. According to the Bureaus of Labor Statistics, employment of ethics managers is projected to grow 9% through 2026, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

An increase in governmental regulations, new company policies, and the boost in the global marketplace will be the driving force behind hiring Ethics and Compliance managers. They are key players in safeguarding the company against internal and external violations. The greater a business sector is regulated by the government, the greater the need for ethics managers. The real estate industry is a prime example of a business sector recently regulated due to the corruption in the secondary mortgage markets. Developers, Appraisers, Real Estate Brokers and Mortgage companies are now closely regulated. The same goes for the accounting/finance industry. Revenue from contracts with customers is expected to change the way revenue is accounted for on the books of major organizations. Whether you’re a construction contractor, a software engineering firm, or a telecommunication provider, there’s a new five-step process of reporting revenue. This change will alter how accounting professionals recognize revenue. To recognize revenue ethically and honestly gives the true story of a company’s financial health; without it, stakeholders are relying on omitted or misleading information.

Ethics managers that understand the legal implications of decision-making will have ample opportunity in their respective industry. Ethical leaders have a pulse on industry change and are in-the-know when it comes to creating new company policy. If your company happens to introduce a new product/service or is the market leader, ethics leaders have the responsibility to set the standard for ethical decision making. Everyone else in the industry will follow suit and mirror the precedent made by the market leader.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of corporate training managers is projected to grow 10% through 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. Just like any growing industry, continuing education and professional development will be paramount to the continued success of compliance managers. Those who understand that education is paramount to their continued success as ethics leaders will set themselves apart and will be sought after for open leadership positions.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the field of human resources management to add 10,800 jobs through 2024, bringing the total to approximately 123,000 jobs nationwide. The projected job growth rate of 9% is faster than

US Department of Labor – Projections Central

What are Average Salaries With Ethics MBA’s Professionals?

Ethical leaders have the ability to earn well over six figures. Depending on the industry, Compliance Managers spearhead organizational change and since the role is so critical to a company’s overall success, they get paid accordingly. Ethics leaders are instrumental in bringing startups from the development stage to the growth phase. This is no small task and this multi-step process involving training, managing, and organizing personnel. Whether it’s managing hiring practices, training new recruits at different locations, or organizing the multinational landscape, ethics leaders make sure everyone is onboard with the company’s mission statement.

According to the BLS, the median annual wage for Ethics and Compliance managers is $106,910. The lowest 10% earned less than $63,140 and the highest 10% earned more than $193,550. Here is a snapshot of some of the median salaries for those who work in Compliance and Ethics:

The median annual wage for training and development managers is $105,830. The lowest 10% earned less than $57,760 and the highest 10% earned more than $184,990. Here is a snapshot of some of the medium salaries for those who work in training and development:

What Opportunities Are Available?

• Human Resource Managers (HR Strategists) control the administrative and personnel functions of an organization. They are responsible for hiring, training, and organizing employees from initial hire to exit interview. HR Managers are part of the company’s overall personnel strategy and are instrumental in maintaining company policy. They spearhead change and make sure all departments are in compliance.
• Employee Relations Managers represent union employees to ensure company compliance with labor agreements. They play a critical role in negotiating new contracts for the union and help facilitate meetings between company owners and union representatives.
• Recruiting Managers are the face of the company and are the initial content for prospective employees. They have the responsibility of hiring qualified talent that align with not only the company’s personnel needs but overall mission statement. They conduct background checks on employees and if they work in a large enough company, may manage a team of other recruiters.
• Training and Development Managers are responsible for developing new and existing employees. From initial onboarding to offering professional development opportunities, Training and Development Managers keep departments up-to-speed with latest industry trends and are responsible for employee growth.

What Skills Are Developed for an MBA in Ethics?

Typical Classes for an MBA in Ethics

Business Ethics – The MBA-level course in Business Ethics explores covers a full suite of topics based on the Center for Ethical Leadership’s four V’s (values, vision, voice, and virtue). Business Ethics is the study of corporate social responsibility, ethical leadership, and policy formation. The curriculum has elements of HR Management and Strategy throughout the specialization and is founded upon improving communication across organization’s staff.

• Leadership in Action. This course focuses on the strategic, operational, functional, ethical and integrity challenges of leadership in practice.  It is taught by faculty using leadership readings, case studies, experiential exercises, and incorporates frequent corporate leaders as guest speakers. The most effective ethical leaders align their own individual moral code with the company’s mission statement. Leadership in Action uses the case study methodology to introduce real-world scenarios to B-Students as well as cautionary tales on bad business practices.
• International Business. In order to be a successful manager at the multinational level, one must understand the customs of cultures outside of the United States. Business customs in Japan are quite different than the customs in the U.S.; therefore, a course that introduces operations, law, policy, regulations, and business etiquette is crucial in developing a well-rounded Ethics Manager. The International Business course is usually part of an MBA elective but is highly recommend for aspiring Compliance Manager interested in working for multinational companies.
• Business Law. Business Law is the study of corporate rules and regulations that govern the operations of a company. Whether it’s studying the formation of a business, HR policy, employment law, or establishing vendor agreements, Business Law is the study of corporate regulation. For an aspiring Compliance Manager, business law keeps an organization aware of any external regulations that may have a direct impact on the company’s stakeholders.
• Ethics in Management. Students who take Ethics in Management will examine ethical frameworks as they relate to business, the environment, the consumer, and individuals within an organization. Students will be introduced to some of the leading Fortune 500 companies that align their social mission with social responsibility. Ethical Leadership concentration students will also learn to apply these frameworks to real-life case studies using moral decision-making techniques. Controversial topics in business will be explored for the sake of analyzing the rights and wrongs of conducting business in an ever-changing world. Students, upon completion of Ethics in Management, will understand the importance of sticking to an ethical code while making high-level decisions.
• Managing Organizational Change. MBA students taking Managing Organizational Change will explore the decision-making process while an organizational undergoes a major change. By applying change leadership to real-life case studies, B-students will be exposed to moral decision-making techniques adopted by some of the leading influencers in industry. The shift to a global business community makes leadership change all the more complex. The next generation of leaders must adapt to the internal and external factors that may make change more difficult in certain industries.

Campus vs. Online MBA in Ethics Programs

eLearning platforms and cutting-edge Blackboard courses have made online education all the more accessible for B-Students no matter their geographic location. From online executive MBA to part-time hybrid programs, there are plenty of formats for B-students looking for a flexible way to earn their business degree. With traditional students integrating online courses into their curriculum to maximize the flexibility of their program, there’s a shift in the way the business community thinks about online MBA courses. They offer the non-traditional student a way to maintain employment and earn a well-respected credential as a business professional.

• Each student must weigh their own personal factors in determining the instructional method of completing their MBA program. Information technology has improved the way curriculum materials are delivered – making it all the more collaborative.  Interactive platforms and use of social media have vastly improved the delivery of MBA program – making them a viable option for those with geographic limitation.
• The convenience of choosing your own times and method of learning is rather liberating, especially if you’re a professional unwilling to give up their career for a traditional MBA program.It also gives the prospective B-Student greater access to concentrations not normally offered in traditional MBA programs. The ability to join a program that is highly specialized, like the Ethics concentration, is way more likely if you choose to attend an online MBA program.
• A number of B-Schools offer free textbooks and e-Books at a reduced price. Most B-Students are also given access to case study portals like Harvard Business Review in order to further develop their business acumen. Since most the of the Ethics concentration uses the case study methodology, a professor has the option of replacing the textbook with more contemporary examples of ethical leadership.

Business School Data Sources from

See all data sources including 756 College and University Programs

• About the Author
• Latest Posts

Jacquelyn Vadnais

Jacquelyn has a JD/MBA from Suffolk University, an LL.M from the University of Miami, and a BA from the George Washington University in International Relations. Jacquelyn is the CEO/Founder of the Sophisticated Word, a writing company that owns Wilbur Press, which donates a percentage of every article sold to the World Literacy Foundation.

• Test New Meta Above Content Meta
• 100 No GMAT Online MBA Programs in [year]
• 4 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs in Utah - [year]