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2025 Best Online MBA Programs in California

MBAGuide StaffMBAGuide.org Staff Updated onMarch 3, 2025
Reading Time: 8 minutes
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Popular Sections for California Online MBA Students

Top 10 Ranked | All AACSB | Tuition | Salary | ROI | Average GMAT | No GMAT / GRE | How We Rank

Executive Summary Online MBA Programs in California for 2025

$52,226

Average Online MBA Tuition in California

$91,091

Average Starting Salary for Online MBA Students in California

577

Average Online GMAT Scores in California

3,149

Average Online Student Enrollment in California

  • In California there are 38 campus and 22 online MBA Programs.
  • Starting salary for new online MBA graduates in California is reported to be between $69,750 and $150,314 with an average of $91,091.
  • Tuition for California campus MBA programs ranges from $9,494 to $165,591, and averages $61,546
  • Online tuition in for California MBAs ranges between $14,272 to $154,339, with an average total tuition cost of $52,226
  • The ROI for online MBA programs in California is between the highest of 451% and the lowest of -14% with an average of 0%
  • Average student enrollment in California online MBA programs varies between 159 and 9,894 with an overall average of 3,149.
  • Student / Faculty Ratio for online MBA programs in California varies between 4:1 and 47:1 with an average of 18:1 students.
  • A GMAT score online MBA programs is between 485 and 732 with an average of 577 is needed for acceptance into an MBA program.
  • California has 40 MBA programs are ranked by the following institutions PQ, US News, Forbes, BW, FT, Economist and MBAGuide.

Key Highlights:

    • Comprehensive comparisons and data about tuition fees, average starting salaries, GMAT scores, and enrollment statistics for MBA programs in California.

    • Detailed profiles of MBA programs in California, their strengths, unique specializations, faculty expertise, and alumni networks are included to help align your study choice with your career ambitions.

    • Insights into California's diverse economic sectors, demonstrating how an MBA degree serves as a potent tool in these industries.

Top 5 Industries and Companies Hiring MBA Graduates in California

California's economy is one of the largest and most diverse in the world. Known for its technology and entertainment industries, it also has robust sectors in agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare. This diversity makes the state an ideal place for MBA graduates looking for a variety of career opportunities.

The technology industry is one of the most notable sectors in California, with Silicon Valley being a global hub for innovation. For MBA graduates, this sector offers a multitude of roles in companies ranging from startups to tech giants like Google and Apple. An MBA concentration in technology management or entrepreneurship could be particularly beneficial here.

California's entertainment industry, centered in Hollywood, provides opportunities for MBAs interested in media and entertainment management. From strategic planning to financial management, there are many roles that MBA graduates can fill in this sector.

In the field of agriculture, California is a leading producer of more than a hundred different kinds of crops. MBA graduates interested in agribusiness can find a wide range of roles in this sector, from supply chain management to sustainability practices.

Lastly, the healthcare sector in California is vast and continuously growing, providing a wealth of opportunities for MBAs with a concentration in healthcare management.

Major Industries in California Relevance to MBA Students
Technology A hub for innovation with a multitude of roles for MBAs in companies ranging from startups to tech giants.
Entertainment Offers opportunities for MBAs interested in media and entertainment management.
Agriculture MBA graduates interested in agribusiness can find a wide range of roles in this sector.
Healthcare The vast and continuously growing healthcare sector provides a wealth of opportunities for MBAs with a concentration in healthcare management.
Manufacturing A robust sector where MBA graduates can apply their skills in operations and supply chain management.

Top Hiring Companies in California Why Work There
Google Offers a variety of roles in one of the world's leading tech companies.
The Walt Disney Company A leader in the entertainment industry, offers opportunities in media and entertainment management.
California Health Care Foundation A key player in the healthcare sector, with roles for MBAs interested in healthcare management.
Cargill A major company in the agricultural industry offering roles in agribusiness.
Tesla A leading manufacturer and innovator in the automobile industry.

Sortable Table of the Top AACSB Accredited MBA Programs in California

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

Rank University Avg. Graduate ROIAvg. In State TuitionAvg. Starting SalaryStateCampus and Online
1 University of Southern California -3.00% $154,339 $150,314CAYes
2 University of California, Davis 14.00% $95,438 $109,075CAYes
3 Santa Clara University 45.00% $83,860 $122,000CAYes
4 University of San Diego 46.00% $69,610 $101,333CAYes
5 University of San Francisco 4.00% $79,200 $82,500CAYes
6 Saint Mary's College of California 189.00% $40,608 $117,200CAYes
7 Seaver College -14.00% $104,333 $89,258CAYes
8 San Jose State University 131.00% $39,270 $90,800CAYes
9 California State University, Stanislaus 196.00% $24,938 $73,800CAYes
10 California State University, Dominguez Hills 385.00% $16,986 $82,400CAYes
11 Dominican University of California 220.00% $35,310 $113,000CAYes
12 California State University, Long Beach 58.00% $45,600 $71,833CAYes
13 California State University, Chico 266.00% $24,000 $87,750CAYes
14 California State University, Fullerton 83.00% $44,550 $81,500CAYes
15 San Diego State University 130.00% $31,200 $71,900CAYes
16 California State University, East Bay 174.00% $28,000 $76,600CAYes
17 California State University, San Bernardino 84.00% $41,500 $76,200CAYes
18 California State University, Bakersfield 451.00% $14,272 $78,600CAYes
19 California State University, Sacramento 201.00% $25,260 $76,000CAYes
20 University of the Pacific 51.00% $46,250 $69,750CAYes

10 Best Ranked MBA Programs in California

Jump to a Best Ranked Program
  • University of Southern California
  • University of California, Davis
  • Santa Clara University
  • University of San Diego
  • University of San Francisco
  • Saint Mary's College of California
  • Seaver College
  • San Jose State University
  • California State University, Stanislaus
  • California State University, Dominguez Hills

University of Southern California

University of Southern California Marshall School of Business

Marshall School of Business

Location:

  • Los Angeles

,

  • CA

Control: Private

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

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  • Tuition: $154,339
  • Graduate Salary: $150,314
  • Graduate ROI: -3%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 732
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 15:1
  • Enrollment: 6933

Degree Level(s):

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

Offered As:

  • 1-Year
  • ·
  • Campus
  • ·
  • Distance Education
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Partnership
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 14
  • Accounting
  • Arts
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Information Systems
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Other
  • Supply Chain
  • Taxation
  • Best in:
  • Best MBA or Masters Program in California
  • Best Online Concentration Finance Online
  • Best Online MBA or Masters in California
  • Best MBA or Masters Most Respected Online MBA Programs
  • Best Concentration Entrepreneurship Development Program
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 1
  • National Rank: 19
  • Online Rank: 9
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

University of California, Davis

University of California, Davis Graduate School of Management

Graduate School of Management

Location:

  • Davis

,

  • CA

Control: Public

Academic Year: Quarter

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

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  • Tuition: $95,438
  • Graduate Salary: $109,075
  • Graduate ROI: 14%
  • GMAT Required: Optional
  • Avg. GMAT: 657
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 7:1
  • Enrollment: 863

Degree Level(s):

  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Online
  • Concentrations: 17
  • Accounting
  • Consulting
  • Engineering
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Human Resources
  • Information Systems
  • Leadership
  • Manufacturing
  • Marketing
  • Operations Management
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Product Management
  • Project Management
  • Real Estate
  • Statistics
  • Best in:
  • Best MBA or Masters Program in California
  • Best Online MBA or Masters in California
  • Best Concentration Statistics
  • Best Concentration Project Management
  • Best Concentration Product Management
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 5
  • National Rank: 55
  • Online Rank: 30
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

Online Description School Main Profile

Santa Clara University

Santa Clara University Leavey School of Business

Leavey School of Business

Location:

  • Santa Clara

,

  • CA

Control: Private

Academic Year: Quarter

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

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  • Tuition: $83,860
  • Graduate Salary: $122,000
  • Graduate ROI: 45%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 620
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 9:1
  • Enrollment: 2635

Degree Level(s):

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

Offered As:

  • 1-Year
  • ·
  • Campus
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Partnership
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 11
  • Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Economics
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Information Systems
  • Law
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Other
  • Best in:
  • Best MBA or Masters Program in California
  • Best Online MBA or Masters in California
  • Best Online Concentration Law
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 7
  • National Rank: 62
  • Online Rank: 36
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

University of San Diego

University of San Diego School of Business

School of Business

Location:

  • San Diego

,

  • CA

Control: Private

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

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  • Tuition: $69,610
  • Graduate Salary: $101,333
  • Graduate ROI: 46%
  • GMAT Required: Optional
  • Avg. GMAT: 573
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 12:1
  • Enrollment: 1910

Degree Level(s):

  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Distance Education
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Off Campus
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Partnership
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 15
  • Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Economics
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Global Management
  • International Business
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Real Estate
  • Supply Chain
  • Sustainability
  • Taxation
  • Best in:
  • Best Online MBA or Masters in California
  • Best Concentration Sustainability
  • Best Online Concentration Sustainability
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 9
  • National Rank: 105
  • Online Rank: 71
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

University of San Francisco

University of San Francisco School of Management

School of Management

Location:

  • San Francisco

,

  • CA

Control: Private

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

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  • Tuition: $79,200
  • Graduate Salary: $82,500
  • Graduate ROI: 4%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 617
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 11:1
  • Enrollment: 1402

Degree Level(s):

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

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Off Campus
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Partnership
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 13
  • Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Global Management
  • Hospitality Management
  • International Business
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Other
  • Best in:
  • Best MBA or Masters Program in California
  • Best Online MBA or Masters in California
  • Best Online Concentration Hospitality Management
  • Best Concentration Hospitality Management
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 10
  • National Rank: 106
  • Online Rank: 72
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

Saint Mary's College of California

Saint Mary’s College of California – School of Economics and Business Administration

School of Economics and Business Administration

Location:

  • Moraga

,

  • CA

Control: Private for-profit

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

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  • Tuition: $40,608
  • Graduate Salary: $117,200
  • Graduate ROI: 189%
  • GMAT Required: Optional
  • Avg. GMAT: 570
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 9:1
  • Enrollment: 541

Degree Level(s):

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

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Off Campus
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 6
  • Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Education
  • Finance
  • Management
  • Best in:
  • Most Affordable Online MBA or Masters in California
  • Best Online MBA or Masters in California
  • Best Online Concentration Education
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 11
  • National Rank: 115
  • Online Rank: 79
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

Seaver College

Pepperdine University Pepperdine Graziadio Business School

Pepperdine University

Location:

  • Malibu

,

  • CA

Control: Private

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

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  • Tuition: $104,333
  • Graduate Salary: $89,258
  • Graduate ROI: -14%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 620
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 15:1
  • Enrollment: 910

Degree Level(s):

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

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Distance Education
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Off Campus
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Partnership
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 12
  • Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Global Management
  • Human Resources
  • International Business
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Real Estate
  • Best in:
  • Best MBA or Masters Program in California
  • Best Online MBA or Masters in California
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 12
  • National Rank: 125
  • Online Rank: 86
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

San Jose State University

San Jose State University Lucas College and Graduate School of Business

Lucas College and Graduate School of Business

Location:

  • San Jose

,

  • CA

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

  • Tuition: $39,270
  • Graduate Salary: $90,800
  • Graduate ROI: 131%
  • GMAT Required: Conditional
  • Avg. GMAT: 587
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 31:1
  • Enrollment: 6334

Degree Level(s):

  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Online
  • Concentrations: 21
  • Accounting
  • Communications
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Global Management
  • Hospitality Management
  • Human Resources
  • Information Systems
  • International Business
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Operations Management
  • Other
  • Product Management
  • Project Management
  • Supply Chain
  • Taxation
  • Best in:
  • Most Affordable Online MBA or Masters in California
  • Most Affordable Online MBA or Masters in Most Affordable Online MBA
  • Best Online MBA or Masters in California
  • Best Concentration Project Management
  • Best Concentration Product Management
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 13
  • National Rank: 131
  • Online Rank: 90
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

California State University, Stanislaus

California State University, Stanislaus College of Business Administration

College of Business Administration

Location:

  • Turlock

,

  • CA

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

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  • Tuition: $24,938
  • Graduate Salary: $73,800
  • Graduate ROI: 196%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 598
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 21:1
  • Enrollment: 1704

Degree Level(s):

  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Distance Education
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Off Campus
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 12
  • Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Global Management
  • Human Resources
  • Information Systems
  • International Business
  • Marketing
  • Operations Management
  • Best in:
  • Most Affordable Online MBA or Masters in California
  • Most Affordable Online MBA or Masters in Most Affordable Online MBA
  • Best Online MBA or Masters in California
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 19
  • National Rank: 180
  • Online Rank: 124
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

California State University, Dominguez Hills

California State University, Dominguez Hills California State University

College of Business Administration and Public Policy

Location:

  • Carson

,

  • CA

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

  • Tuition: $16,986
  • Graduate Salary: $82,400
  • Graduate ROI: 385%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 600
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 22:1
  • Enrollment: 2276

Degree Level(s):

  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 12
  • Accounting
  • Data Analytics
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Hospitality Management
  • Human Resources
  • Information Systems
  • International Business
  • Marketing
  • Sports Management
  • Supply Chain
  • Best in:
  • Most Affordable Online MBA or Masters in California
  • Best Online Concentration Hospitality Management
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 22
  • National Rank: 195
  • Online Rank: 134
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

Compare Online MBA Program Averages in 2025
California, the U.S. and Online

 AveragesOnline MBA ProgramsCalifornia MBA ProgramsMBA Programs Nationwide
Average MBA Tuition$37,167$61,546$42,528
Average Graduate Salary$79,354$94,552$82,899
Average ROI196%135%185%
Average GMAT Scores561592567
Average Full-Time Faculty727572
Average Student Faculty Ratio17:117:116:1
Average Business School Enrollment2,6542,9012,533

What is the Average Tuition for Online MBA Programs in California?


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 online MBA program can provide the flexibility of completing a program while being employed in your respective career.

An Online MBA program from an institution in California will cost you between $14,272 from California State University, Bakersfield and $154,339 from University of Southern California. The average cost of online MBA programs within California is $52,226.

While the average in-person MBA program in California will cost about $61,546, the least expensive MBA program is $9,494 from Sonoma State University, and the most expensive is $165,591 from Stanford University.

Average Tuition for Online MBA Programs

Average: $52,226 from California’s 22 online MBA Programs
Lowest online: $14,272 from California State University, Bakersfield
Highest online: $154,339 from University of Southern California

Average Tuition for In-Person MBA Programs

Average: $59,820 from California’s 38 in-person MBA Programs
Lowest in-person: $9,494 from Sonoma State University
Highest in-person: $165,591 from Stanford University

Most Affordable Online MBAs in California

  1. California State University, Bakersfield - $14,272.00
  2. California State University, Dominguez Hills - $16,986.00
  3. California State University, Chico - $24,000.00
  4. California State University, Stanislaus - $24,938.00
  5. California State University, Sacramento - $25,260.00
  6. California State University, East Bay - $28,000.00
  7. San Diego State University - $31,200.00
  8. Dominican University of California - $35,310.00
  9. San Jose State University - $39,270.00
  10. Saint Mary's College of California - $40,608.00

Most Expensive Online MBAs in California

  1. University of Southern California - $154,339.00
  2. Seaver College - $104,333.00
  3. University of California, Davis - $95,438.00
  4. Santa Clara University - $83,860.00
  5. University of San Francisco - $79,200.00
  6. University of San Diego - $69,610.00
  7. University of the Pacific - $46,250.00
  8. California State University, Long Beach - $45,600.00
  9. California State University, Fullerton - $44,550.00
  10. California State University, San Bernardino - $41,500.00

What is the Average Graduate Salary for Online MBA Programs in California?

The average starting salary for graduates of an online MBA program from an institution in California is between $69,750 from University of the Pacific and $150,314 from University of Southern California. The average starting MBA salary for graduates of online MBA programs within California is $91,091.

While the average starting salary for graduates of an in-person MBA program in California is about $94,552, the lowest average MBA starting salary is $52,400 from California State University, San Marcos, and the highest average MBA starting salary is $182,272 from Stanford University.

Average Graduate Salaries for Online MBA Programs

  • Average: $91,091 from California’s 22 Online MBA Programs
  • Lowest Online: $69,750 from University of the Pacific
  • Highest Online: $150,314 from University of Southern California

Average Graduate Salaries for In-Person MBA Programs

  • Average: $93,564 from California’s 38 In-Person MBA Programs
  • Lowest In-Person: $52,400 from California State University, San Marcos
  • Highest In-Person:$182,272 from Stanford University

Schools with the Highest Online Graduate MBA Salaries in California

  1. University of Southern California - $150,314.00
  2. Santa Clara University - $122,000.00
  3. Saint Mary's College of California - $117,200.00
  4. Dominican University of California - $113,000.00
  5. University of California, Davis - $109,075.00
  6. University of San Diego - $101,333.00
  7. San Jose State University - $90,800.00
  8. Seaver College - $89,258.00
  9. California State University, Chico - $87,750.00
  10. University of San Francisco - $82,500.00

Schools with the Lowest Online Graduate MBA Salaries in California

  1. University of the Pacific - $69,750.00
  2. California State University, Long Beach - $71,833.00
  3. San Diego State University - $71,900.00
  4. California State University, Stanislaus - $73,800.00
  5. California State University, Sacramento - $76,000.00
  6. California State University, San Bernardino - $76,200.00
  7. California State University, East Bay - $76,600.00
  8. California State University, Bakersfield - $78,600.00
  9. California State University, Fullerton - $81,500.00
  10. California State University, Dominguez Hills - $82,400.00

What is the Average ROI for Online MBA Programs in California?

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.

The ROI from Online MBA programs in California range between -14% from Seaver College and 451% from California State University, Bakersfield. The average ROI of online MBA programs within California is 136%.

While the average in-person MBA program ROI from California is 135%, the lowest ROI is -26% from University of California, Riverside, and the best ROI is 809% from Sonoma State University.

Online ROI for MBA Programs

  • Average: 136% from California’s 22 online MBA Programs
  • Lowest online: -14% from Seaver College
  • Highest online: 451% from California State University, Bakersfield

In-Person ROI for MBA Programs

  • Average: 141% from California’s 38 in-person MBA Programs
  • Lowest in-person: -26% from University of California, Riverside
  • Highest in-person: 809% from Sonoma State University

Highest ROI for Online MBA Programs in California

  1. California State University, Bakersfield - 451.00%
  2. California State University, Dominguez Hills - 385.00%
  3. California State University, Chico - 266.00%
  4. Dominican University of California - 220.00%
  5. California State University, Sacramento - 201.00%
  6. California State University, Stanislaus - 196.00%
  7. Saint Mary's College of California - 189.00%
  8. California State University, East Bay - 174.00%
  9. San Jose State University - 131.00%
  10. San Diego State University - 130.00%

Lowest ROI for Online MBA Programs in California

  1. University of San Francisco - 4.00%
  2. University of California, Davis - 14.00%
  3. Santa Clara University - 45.00%
  4. University of San Diego - 46.00%
  5. University of the Pacific - 51.00%
  6. California State University, Long Beach - 58.00%
  7. California State University, Fullerton - 83.00%
  8. California State University, San Bernardino - 84.00%
  9. San Diego State University - 130.00%
  10. San Jose State University - 131.00%

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

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.

The average GMAT score needed for an online MBA program from an institution in California is between 485 from University of the Pacific to 732 from University of Southern California. The average GMAT scored for online MBA programs within California is 577.

While the average GMAT score needed for in-person MBA program in California is 592, the lowest average GMAT score is for an MBA program is 485 from University of the Pacific, and the highest GMAT score needed is 737 from Stanford University.

Average GMAT Score for Online MBA Programs

  • Average: 577 from California’s 22 online MBA Programs
  • Lowest online: 485 from University of the Pacific
  • Highest online: 732 from University of Southern California

Average GMAT Score for In-Person MBA Programs

  • Average: 589 from California’s 38 in-person MBA Programs
  • Lowest in-person: 485 from University of the Pacific
  • Highest in-person: 737 from Stanford University

Lowest GMAT Scores for Online MBA Programs in California

  1. University of the Pacific - 485
  2. University of La Verne - 500
  3. California State University, San Bernardino - 510
  4. California State University, Sacramento - 520
  5. California State University, East Bay - 530
  6. California State University, Bakersfield - 531
  7. California State University, Fullerton - 553
  8. Dominican University of California - 560
  9. California State University, Chico - 570
  10. Saint Mary's College of California - 570

Highest GMAT Scores for Online MBA Programs in California

  1. University of Southern California - 732
  2. University of California, Davis - 657
  3. Seaver College - 620
  4. Santa Clara University - 620
  5. University of San Francisco - 617
  6. California State University, Dominguez Hills - 600
  7. California State University, Stanislaus - 598
  8. California State University, Long Beach - 590
  9. San Diego State University - 587
  10. San Jose State University - 587

No GMAT or GRE – Best Online MBA Programs in California

Rank University GMAT Online College Name Based In
1 University of California, Davis Optional Yes Graduate School of Management Davis, CA
2 University of San Diego Optional Yes School of Business San Diego, CA
3 Saint Mary's College of California Optional Yes School of Economics and Business Administration Moraga, CA
4 Dominican University of California No Yes Barowsky School of Business San Rafael, CA
5 California State University, Long Beach Optional Yes College of Business Administration Long Beach, CA
6 California State University, Chico No Yes College of Business Chico, CA
7 California State University, Fullerton No Yes College of Business and Economics Fullerton, CA
8 San Diego State University No Yes Fowler College of Business San Diego, CA
9 California State University, Sacramento No Yes College of Business Sacramento, CA
10 Naval Postgraduate School Optional Yes Department of Defense Management (DDM) Monterey, CA

Online MBA Schools with the Most Alumni California?

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

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 California state’s MBA programs, the range for full-time enrollment is between 33 and 2,201. For part-time enrollment, the range is between : 14.00 and : 544.00.

Average Enrollment for Online MBA Programs

  • Lowest: 33 from San Diego State University
  • Highest: 2,201 from University of Southern California
  • Average: 344 from California’s 22 MBA Programs.
  • Average: 287 from 392 nation’s online MBA Programs.

Average Enrollment for In-Person MBA Programs

  • Lowest: 33 from San Diego State University
  • Highest: 2,201 from University of Southern California
  • Average: 366 from California’s 40 MBA Programs.
  • Average: 296 from 511 the nation’s campus MBA Programs.

Online MBA Programs with the Lowest Student Enrollment in California

  1. University of Southern California - 2,201
  2. Santa Clara University - 353
  3. California State University, Fullerton - 335
  4. Dominican University of California - 276
  5. University of San Diego - 244
  6. San Jose State University - 211
  7. University of San Francisco - 210
  8. University of La Verne - 188
  9. California State University, Sacramento - 155
  10. Saint Mary's College of California - 143

Online MBA Programs with the Highest Student Enrollment in California

  1. San Diego State University - 33
  2. California State University, Stanislaus - 52
  3. Naval Postgraduate School - 72
  4. Saint Mary's College of California - 143
  5. California State University, Sacramento - 155
  6. University of La Verne - 188
  7. University of San Francisco - 210
  8. San Jose State University - 211
  9. University of San Diego - 244
  10. Dominican University of California - 276

What Online MBA Concentrations Available in California?

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 California businesses, MBA programs here have risen to the challenge by offering you an array of more than 42 MBA concentrations including:

  • General Business: 21
  • Finance: 19
  • Marketing: 18
  • Management: 17
  • Accounting: 16
  • Data Analytics: 15
  • Human Resources: 13
  • Information Systems: 12
  • International Business: 12
  • Corporate Finance: 12

What Online Schools Offer the Widest Variety of MBA Concentrations in California?

  • San Jose State University: 21
  • California State University, Fullerton: 20
  • California State University, San Bernardino: 18
  • University of California, Davis: 18
  • San Diego State University: 16
  • University of San Diego: 15
  • Dominican University of California: 15
  • University of Southern California: 14
  • California State University, Sacramento: 14
  • University of San Francisco: 13

Cities Offering Online MBA Programs in California

Looking for a particular city in California with an accredited MBA program? Research and compare MBA programs from other cities in California. Find online programs, programs by concentration, by average GMAT score and more.

  • Atherton
  • Bakersfield
  • Berkeley
  • Burbank
  • Chico
  • Claremont
  • Davis
  • Fresno
  • Fullerton
  • Hayward
  • Irvine
  • La Jolla
  • Long Beach
  • Los Angeles
  • Monterey
  • Moraga
  • Northridge
  • Orange
  • Pomona
  • Riverside
  • Rohnert Park
  • Sacramento
  • San Bernardino
  • San Diego
  • San Francisco
  • San Luis Obispo
  • Santa Clara
  • Stanford
  • Stockton
  • Turlock

The Importance of MBA Accreditation

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 in California

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

California has : 40 Accredited MBA programs. 2 private and : 26 public schools offering MBA programs.

California has : 26 public schools and : 2 private schools offering MBA degree programs.

: 40 Accredited MBA programs.  and : 26 public schools offering MBA programs.

California schools offer 10 different paths to earn your MBA in California including Campus, Full-Time, Part-Time, Evenings, Weekends, Online, Partnership, 1-Year, Off Campus and Distance Education.

To meet the diverse needs of California businesses, MBA programs here have risen to the challenge by offering you an array of more than 42 MBA concentrations to specialize in.

Awards for Online MBA Programs in California

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 22 accredited MBA programs offered in California, 35 of them have been recognized by at least one distinguished publication (PQ, US News, Forbes, BW, FT, Economist and MBAGuide) garnering an award as one of the best MBA programs in the country.

California schools have earned a total of 76 Best MBA awards from publications. Here are the top MBA schools and the number of awards the each program has garnered:

  • University of California, Berkeley: 7
  • University of California, Irvine: 7
  • University of Southern California: 7
  • Stanford University: 7
  • University of California, Los Angeles: 7
  • University of California, Davis: 5
  • Seaver College: 5
  • University of California, San Diego: 4
  • California State University, Fullerton: 1
  • San Diego State University: 1
  • California State University, Fresno: 1
  • Naval Postgraduate School: 1
  • California State University, Long Beach: 1
  • University of San Diego: 1
  • California State University, Chico: 1
  • California State University, San Bernardino: 1
  • California State University, Sacramento: 1
  • California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo: 1
  • University of the Pacific: 1
  • California State University, Bakersfield: 1
  • California State Polytechnic University Pomona: 1
  • California State University, Stanislaus: 1
  • Chapman University: 1
  • San Francisco State University: 1
  • Santa Clara University: 1
  • Woodbury University: 1
  • Saint Mary’s College of California: 1
  • University of San Francisco: 1
  • Sonoma State University: 1
  • University of California, Riverside: 1
  • California State University, Northridge: 1
  • Claremont Graduate University: 1
  • California State University, Los Angeles: 1
  • Loyola Marymount University: 1
  • California State University, East Bay: 1

Publications and the number of awards granted for California schools:

  • US News: 8
  • Forbes: 7
  • BW: 7
  • FT: 5
  • Economist: 6
  • MBAGuide: 35

How We Rank the Best Online MBA Programs in California

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.

Best MBA Programs by State: Online and In-Person

Alabama – Online | In-Person
Alaska – Online | In-Person
Arizona – Online | In-Person
Arkansas – Online | In-Person
California – Online | In-Person
Colorado – Online | In-Person
Connecticut – Online | In-Person
Delaware – Online | In-Person
Florida – Online | In-Person
Georgia – Online | In-Person
Hawaii – Online | In-Person
Idaho – Online | In-Person
Illinois – Online | In-Person
Indiana – Online | In-Person
Iowa – Online | In-Person
Kansas – Online | In-Person
Kentucky – Online | In-Person

Louisiana – Online | In-Person
Maine – Online | In-Person
Maryland – Online | In-Person
Massachusetts – Online | In-Person
Michigan – Online | In-Person
Minnesota – Online | In-Person
Mississippi – Online | In-Person
Missouri – Online | In-Person
Montana – Online | In-Person
Nebraska – Online | In-Person
Nevada – Online | In-Person
New Hampshire – Online | In-Person
New Jersey – Online | In-Person
New Mexico – Online | In-Person
New York – Online | In-Person
North Carolina – Online | In-Person
North Dakota – Online | In-Person

Ohio – Online | In-Person
Oklahoma – Online | In-Person
Oregon – Online | In-Person
Pennsylvania – Online | In-Person
Rhode Island – Online | In-Person
South Carolina – Online | In-Person
South Dakota – Online | In-Person
Tennessee – Online | In-Person
Texas – Online | In-Person
Utah – Online | In-Person
Vermont – Online | In-Person
Virginia – Online | In-Person
Washington – Online | In-Person
West Virginia – Online | In-Person
Wisconsin – Online | In-Person
Wyoming – Online | In-Person
District of Columbia – Online | In-Person

Data sources: IPEDS, National Center of Educational Statistics, U.S. Department of Education, Institute of Education Sciences (ERIC), Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), 520 MBA Schools, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). If you notice errors in the MBA program database, please contact us.

Find: MBA Programs in California | Online MBA Programs in California Rankings: MBA Program Rankings | Online MBA Program Rankings Guides: Guide to Earning an Online MBA | Guide to Earning an MBA Concentrations: Online MBA Concentrations | Campus MBA Concentrations

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      MBA Program Rankings and Reports for All 50 States

  • Concentrations
    • Most AACSB Programs Offered

      • Finance – 430
      • Accounting – 444
      • Marketing – 405
      • Management – 433
      • Business Administration – 453
      • Information Systems – 274
      • Intl Business – 210
      • Entrepreneurship – 218
      • Economics – 220
      • Supply Chain – 200
      • Data Analytics – 309
      • Healthcare Admin – 144
      • Leadership – 92
      • Statistics – 16

      Best Graduate Salary

      • Business Analytics – $104,000
      • Consulting – $115,277
      • Energy – $92,959
      • E-Commerce – $94,850
      • Law – $90,536
      • Leadership – $88,232
      • Operations Mgmt – $92,419
      • Insurance – $80,528
      • Org. Behavior – $107,961
      • Real Estate – $97,485
      • Sports Mgmt – $78,406
      • Statistics – $103,112
      • Healthcare Mgmt – $85,206
      • Taxation –  $121,750

      Explore All 50 MBA Concentrations

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