2024 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia

University of Virginia-Darden

Darden School of Business

• 100 Darden Boulevard, Box 6550, Charlottesville, VA - 22906-6550
• 

The University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business is consistently ranked among the top business schools in the United States, making it an excellent choice for students seeking a transformative MBA experience. Located in the picturesque city of Charlottesville, Darden offers a rigorous and immersive program designed to develop responsible leaders through unparalleled learning experiences. The school’s commitment to high-engagement learning, combined with its world-class faculty and strong emphasis on case-based education, ensures that students are well-prepared to tackle real-world business challenges.

Key Student Benefits

World-Class Faculty

Darden boasts some of the best teaching talent in the world, providing students with access to renowned professors who are experts in their fields. This ensures a high-quality education and personalized attention due to the school’s deliberately small class sizes.

High-Engagement Learning

The Darden MBA program is known for its high-engagement learning approach, which includes analyzing ambiguous situations, devising strategies, and confronting alternative perspectives. This method fosters deep learning and emotional engagement with peers and faculty, making the educational experience both intensive and rewarding.

Global Opportunities

Darden offers extensive global learning opportunities through its Darden Worldwide Courses. Every full-time MBA student receives a scholarship covering most of the program fees for these courses, which have been held in diverse locations such as Argentina, Costa Rica, Germany, Iceland, Israel, Spain, and Sweden. This global exposure is invaluable for students looking to understand international business dynamics.

Strong Career Support

With a high employment rate for graduates, Darden provides robust career support services. The school’s strong network of alumni and connections with top hiring companies ensure that students have ample opportunities to secure desirable positions post-graduation.

Entrepreneurial Focus

The Batten Institute for Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Technology at Darden supports students in fulfilling their entrepreneurial potential. Through scholarships, resources, and experiential learning opportunities, the institute helps students develop the skills needed to succeed in entrepreneurial ventures.

MBA Concentrations Offered by the School

Accounting

• The Accounting concentration at Darden equips students with the skills needed to excel in financial reporting and analysis. This concentration is ideal for those looking to pursue careers in auditing, consulting, or corporate finance.

Business Analytics

• Darden’s Business Analytics concentration focuses on data-driven decision-making. Students learn to leverage big data and advanced analytics to solve complex business problems, making them highly valuable in today’s data-centric business environment.

Consulting

• The Consulting concentration prepares students for careers in management consulting by teaching them how to analyze business problems and develop strategic solutions. This concentration is perfect for those looking to work with top consulting firms.

Entrepreneurship

• The Entrepreneurship concentration, supported by the Batten Institute, provides students with the knowledge and resources to start and grow their own businesses. This concentration includes courses on venture capital, innovation, and business planning.

Finance

• Darden’s Finance concentration offers a deep dive into financial markets, investment strategies, and corporate finance. Students gain the expertise needed to succeed in roles such as investment banking, asset management, and financial consulting.

Marketing

• The Marketing concentration at Darden focuses on consumer behavior, brand management, and digital marketing strategies. This concentration prepares students for careers in marketing management, advertising, and market research.

Operations

• The Operations concentration teaches students how to optimize business processes and supply chains. This concentration is ideal for those interested in roles in operations management, logistics, and production planning.

Strategy

• Darden’s Strategy concentration provides students with the tools to develop and implement effective business strategies. This concentration is suited for those aiming for leadership roles in corporate strategy, business development, and strategic planning.

For more detailed information about the Darden MBA program and its concentrations, visit the Darden School of Business website.

Citations:
[1] https://poetsandquants.com/school-profile/university-of-virginia-darden-school-of-business/
[2] https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-business-schools/university-of-virginia-main-campus-01234
[3] https://www.darden.virginia.edu/mba
[4] https://www.darden.virginia.edu
[5] https://www.darden.virginia.edu/programs

George Mason University

School of Business

• Mail Stop 1B1, Fairfax, VA - 22030-4444
• 

George Mason University’s Donald G. Costello College of Business stands out as one of the premier business schools in Virginia, offering a dynamic and innovative MBA program. Located in Fairfax, near the bustling Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, the school provides students with unparalleled opportunities for networking, internships, and career advancement. The college’s commitment to entrepreneurship, innovation, and community engagement, combined with its strategic location, makes it an ideal choice for aspiring business leaders.

Key Student Benefits

Strategic Location

Situated near Washington, D.C., George Mason University offers students access to a wealth of professional opportunities in one of the most important political, economic, and intellectual hubs in the world. This proximity allows for unique networking opportunities, internships, and career placements in top organizations.

Entrepreneurship and Innovation

The Costello College of Business places a strong emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation. The Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship collaborates with local entrepreneurs, civic leaders, and businesses to provide students with hands-on entrepreneurial training and opportunities to engage in real-world business ventures.

Diverse and Inclusive Community

George Mason University is known for its remarkable diversity, enrolling nearly 40,000 students from 130 countries. This diverse environment enriches the learning experience, fostering a global perspective and inclusive atmosphere that prepares students for the international business landscape.

Robust Career Support

The college offers extensive career support services, including personalized career coaching, networking events, and connections with a vast alumni network. These resources help students navigate their career paths and secure positions in their desired fields.

Flexible Learning Options

The MBA program at George Mason University offers flexible learning options, including part-time and online formats, allowing students to balance their studies with professional and personal commitments. This flexibility ensures that students can tailor their education to fit their unique needs and schedules.

MBA Concentrations Offered by the School

Accounting

• The Accounting concentration equips students with advanced skills in financial reporting, auditing, and tax planning. This concentration is ideal for those pursuing careers in public accounting, corporate finance, or consulting.

Business Analytics

• The Business Analytics concentration focuses on data-driven decision-making. Students learn to leverage big data and advanced analytics to solve complex business problems, making them highly valuable in today’s data-centric business environment.

Consulting

• The Consulting concentration prepares students for careers in management consulting by teaching them how to analyze business problems and develop strategic solutions. This concentration is perfect for those looking to work with top consulting firms.

Finance

• The Finance concentration offers a deep dive into financial markets, investment strategies, and corporate finance. Students gain the expertise needed to succeed in roles such as investment banking, asset management, and financial consulting.

Marketing

• The Marketing concentration focuses on consumer behavior, brand management, and digital marketing strategies. This concentration prepares students for careers in marketing management, advertising, and market research.

Project Management

• The Project Management concentration provides students with the skills to manage complex projects efficiently. This concentration is ideal for those looking to lead projects in various industries, ensuring timely and successful project completion.

For more detailed information about the MBA program and its concentrations, visit the Costello College of Business website.

Citations:
[1] https://www.gmu.edu/news/2023-04/george-mason-university-school-business-be-named-honor-donald-g-costello
[2] https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-business-schools/george-mason-university-01230
[3] https://business.gmu.edu
[4] https://giving.gmu.edu/business-building-campaign/
[5] https://www.linkedin.com/school/george-mason-university-costello-college-of-business/

James Madison University

College of Business

• 3018 Hartman Hall, Harrisonburg, VA - 22807
• 

James Madison University’s College of Business offers a highly regarded MBA program that stands out for its flexibility, affordability, and strong focus on practical, real-world applications. Located in Harrisonburg, Virginia, JMU’s MBA program is designed to cater to working professionals, providing a hybrid format that combines the benefits of both online and in-person learning. The program’s commitment to high-quality education, coupled with its strategic location near Washington, D.C., makes it an excellent choice for students looking to advance their careers while balancing other commitments.

Key Student Benefits

Flexible Learning Format

JMU’s MBA program is designed with the working professional in mind, offering a hybrid format that blends online and in-person classes. This flexible approach allows students to manage their studies alongside their professional and personal responsibilities, making it easier to achieve a work-life balance.

Affordability

The program is competitively priced, offering a high-quality education at a reasonable cost. This affordability ensures that students can invest in their future without incurring excessive debt, making it a financially sound choice for many.

Strong Faculty Engagement

The faculty at JMU’s College of Business are known for their passion and expertise. Courses are designed to be relevant and adaptive to the ever-changing business landscape, ensuring that students receive an education that is both current and practical. The small class sizes foster a close-knit learning environment where students can engage deeply with their professors and peers.

High Employment Rate

With 100% of students employed when they first enroll, JMU’s MBA program is tailored to those who are already in the workforce. This high employment rate underscores the program’s effectiveness in enhancing career prospects and providing immediate value to students’ professional lives.

National Recognition

JMU’s online MBA program is ranked #18 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, highlighting its excellence and the high regard in which it is held. This national recognition adds significant value to the degree, enhancing graduates’ credentials in the job market.

MBA Concentrations Offered by the School

Executive Leadership

• The Executive Leadership concentration is tailored for mid-level managers with at least five years of professional experience. It focuses on developing the skills necessary for transitioning into C-suite or high-level management positions. The program includes periodic in-person sessions in Tysons Corner, VA, providing opportunities for networking and hands-on learning. For more information, visit the Executive Leadership concentration page.

Information Security

• Designed for managers who need a strong understanding of the business implications of information security, this concentration prepares students to take the CISSP exam upon completion. It requires at least two years of professional work experience and includes periodic in-person sessions in Tysons Corner, VA. This concentration is particularly valuable in today’s digital age, where cybersecurity is a critical concern for businesses. For more information, visit the Information Security concentration page.

Innovation

• The Innovation concentration captures the traditional MBA experience in a part-time format with evening classes. It includes a signature Leadership Development program and a 10-day global experience, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of innovation in business. This concentration is ideal for professionals looking to drive change and foster innovation within their organizations. For more information, visit the Innovation concentration page.

For more detailed information about the MBA program and its concentrations, visit the JMU College of Business website.

Citations:
[1] https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/james-madison-university-OBUS0288/mba
[2] https://www.jmu.edu/grad/programs/business.shtml
[3] https://www.princetonreview.com/business/james-madison-university-college-business-1037607
[4] https://www.jmu.edu/grad/programs/all-programs/business-administration.shtml
[5] https://www.jmu.edu/cob/mba/index.shtml

Virginia Commonwealth University

School of Business

• 301 W. Main Street, Box 844000, Richmond, VA - 23284-4000
• 

The Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Business is a premier institution located in Richmond, Virginia, offering a robust MBA program that is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in a dynamic and global business environment. As part of a leading urban, public research university, the VCU School of Business combines academic rigor with practical experience, providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their careers. The school’s commitment to innovation, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong industry connections make it an excellent choice for aspiring business professionals.

Key Student Benefits

State-of-the-Art Facilities

VCU’s School of Business features cutting-edge labs, centers, and institutes that provide students with hands-on learning experiences. Facilities like the Capital Markets Center, Customer Experience Lab, and the Center for International Business Advancement offer students the opportunity to engage in real-time stock trading, conduct eye-tracking experiments, and network with industry leaders, respectively.

Strong Career Services

The school has a dedicated Business Career Services center located in Snead Hall, which provides personalized career advice, internship placements, and job search assistance. This support helps students transition smoothly from academic life to professional careers, ensuring they are well-prepared for the job market.

High Employment and Salary Outcomes

Graduates of the VCU School of Business report strong employment outcomes and competitive starting salaries. The average reported starting salary for undergraduates is $55,805, reflecting the high value employers place on a VCU business education.

National Recognition

VCU’s online MBA program is ranked 32nd nationally by Fortune in 2021, highlighting the program’s quality and the school’s commitment to providing flexible, high-quality education options for working professionals.

Extensive Alumni Network

With 72% of alumni living in Virginia, VCU offers a strong local network that can be invaluable for career advancement and professional development. This extensive network provides students with numerous opportunities for mentorship, networking, and job placements within the region.

MBA Concentrations Offered by the School

Finance

• The Finance concentration at VCU equips students with advanced knowledge in financial management, investment analysis, and corporate finance. This concentration is ideal for those looking to pursue careers in investment banking, asset management, or financial consulting. For more information, visit the Finance concentration page.

Global Business

• The Global Business concentration focuses on international business strategies, cross-cultural management, and global market dynamics. Students gain the skills needed to navigate and succeed in the global business environment. For more information, visit the Global Business concentration page.

Information Systems

• The Information Systems concentration prepares students to manage and leverage information technology in business settings. This concentration covers topics such as data analytics, cybersecurity, and IT project management, making graduates highly valuable in the tech-driven business world. For more information, visit the Information Systems concentration page.

Marketing

• The Marketing concentration at VCU focuses on consumer behavior, digital marketing strategies, and brand management. This concentration prepares students for careers in marketing management, advertising, and market research. For more information, visit the Marketing concentration page.

Real Estate

• The Real Estate concentration provides students with a comprehensive understanding of real estate finance, development, and investment. This concentration is ideal for those looking to pursue careers in real estate development, property management, or real estate investment. For more information, visit the Real Estate concentration page.

For more detailed information about the MBA program and its concentrations, visit the VCU School of Business website.

Citations:
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VCU_School_of_Business
[2] https://business.vcu.edu
[3] https://www.vcu.edu/programs/
[4] https://bulletin.vcu.edu/graduate/school-business/
[5] https://www.linkedin.com/school/vcubusiness/

College of William and Mary

Raymond A. Mason School of Business

• 101 Ukrop Way, Williamsburg, VA - 23187-8795
• 

The Raymond A. Mason School of Business at the College of William & Mary is a top-tier institution that offers a transformative MBA experience. Located in Williamsburg, Virginia, the Mason School is renowned for its innovative curriculum, exceptional faculty, and strong emphasis on real-world applications. As one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in the United States, William & Mary provides a rich educational heritage combined with modern business practices, making it an ideal choice for students seeking to advance their careers in a dynamic and supportive environment.

Key Student Benefits

Innovative Curriculum

The Mason School of Business offers a forward-thinking curriculum designed to prepare students for the complexities of the modern business world. The “Tomorrow’s MBA” curriculum includes specializations in key areas such as Business Analytics, Consulting, Finance, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Marketing, and Supply Chain, ensuring that students gain expertise in their chosen fields.

Exceptional Faculty

Ranked #5 in the country by the Princeton Review in 2020, the faculty at the Mason School of Business are leaders in their fields. They bring a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience to the classroom, challenging students with an evolving curriculum that goes beyond traditional business education.

Real-World Experience

The Mason School emphasizes practical learning through corporate-sponsored experiential sprint weeks, global immersion trips, corporate networking treks, and case competitions. These opportunities allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world business challenges, enhancing their problem-solving and decision-making skills.

Strong Corporate Engagement

Students benefit from extensive corporate engagement opportunities that merge theory with practice. The school’s strong connections with industry leaders provide valuable networking opportunities and help students develop the skills needed to bring immediate value to their organizations.

Personalized Career Support

The Graduate Career Management Center offers personalized career development support, helping students navigate their career paths and achieve their professional goals. With a 100% internship placement rate for employment-seeking students, the Mason School ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the job market.

MBA Concentrations Offered by the School

Business Analytics

• The Business Analytics concentration equips students with the skills to analyze and interpret complex data, making data-driven decisions that drive business success. This concentration is ideal for those looking to leverage big data in strategic decision-making. For more information, visit the Business Analytics concentration page.

Consulting

• The Consulting concentration prepares students for careers in management consulting by teaching them how to analyze business problems and develop strategic solutions. This concentration is perfect for those looking to work with top consulting firms. For more information, visit the Consulting concentration page.

Finance

• The Finance concentration offers a deep dive into financial markets, investment strategies, and corporate finance. Students gain the expertise needed to succeed in roles such as investment banking, asset management, and financial consulting. For more information, visit the Finance concentration page.

Innovation & Entrepreneurship

• The Innovation & Entrepreneurship concentration provides students with the knowledge and resources to start and grow their own businesses. This concentration includes courses on venture capital, innovation, and business planning, making it ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs. For more information, visit the Innovation & Entrepreneurship concentration page.

Marketing

• The Marketing concentration focuses on consumer behavior, brand management, and digital marketing strategies. This concentration prepares students for careers in marketing management, advertising, and market research. For more information, visit the Marketing concentration page.

Supply Chain

• The Supply Chain concentration teaches students how to optimize business processes and supply chains. This concentration is ideal for those interested in roles in operations management, logistics, and production planning. For more information, visit the Supply Chain concentration page.

For more detailed information about the MBA program and its concentrations, visit the Raymond A. Mason School of Business website.

Citations:
[1] https://mason.wm.edu
[2] https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-business-schools/college-of-william-and-mary-01229
[3] https://mason.wm.edu/graduate/mba/
[4] https://online.mason.wm.edu/mba
[5] https://mason.wm.edu/graduate/mba/full-time-mba/

Old Dominion University

Strome College of Business

• 2008 Constant Hall, Norfolk, VA - 23529
• 

The Strome College of Business at Old Dominion University (ODU) offers a highly flexible and accelerated MBA program designed to meet the needs of today’s busy professionals. Located in Norfolk, Virginia, ODU’s MBA program is known for its rigorous curriculum, strong industry connections, and commitment to providing a comprehensive business education. The program’s flexibility, affordability, and focus on real-world applications make it an excellent choice for students looking to advance their careers while balancing other commitments.

Key Student Benefits

Flexible Learning Options

ODU’s MBA program offers a variety of learning formats, including online, on-campus, and hybrid options. This flexibility allows students to tailor their education to fit their personal and professional schedules, making it easier to balance work, life, and study.

Accelerated Program

The MBA program at ODU is designed to be completed in as little as 21 months. With eight-week course sessions, students can progress through the program more quickly than in traditional semester-based programs, allowing them to achieve their career goals faster.

Dual AACSB Accreditation

The Strome College of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and holds additional specialized AACSB accreditation for its accounting programs. This dual accreditation places ODU among the top business schools globally, ensuring a high-quality education that is recognized and respected by employers.

Customizable Curriculum

Students can enhance their MBA by adding concentrations or graduate certificates in areas such as Business Analytics, Maritime and Ports Management, Project Management, Public Procurement and Contract Management, and Supply Chain Management. This customization allows students to tailor their education to their specific career interests and goals.

Strong Career Support

ODU provides robust career services, including personalized career coaching, networking events, and job placement assistance. The school’s strong connections with industry leaders and a dedicated Business Career Services center help students transition smoothly from academic life to professional careers.

MBA Concentrations Offered by the School

Business Analytics

• The Business Analytics concentration equips students with the skills to analyze and interpret complex data, making data-driven decisions that drive business success. This concentration is ideal for those looking to leverage big data in strategic decision-making. For more information, visit the Business Analytics concentration page.

Maritime and Ports Management

• This concentration focuses on the unique challenges and opportunities within the maritime and ports industry. Students learn about logistics, supply chain management, and the economic impact of maritime operations, preparing them for leadership roles in this specialized field. For more information, visit the Maritime and Ports Management concentration page.

Project Management

• The Project Management concentration provides students with the skills to manage complex projects efficiently. This concentration covers topics such as project planning, risk management, and quality control, making it ideal for those looking to lead projects in various industries. For more information, visit the Project Management concentration page.

Public Procurement and Contract Management

• This concentration prepares students for careers in public procurement and contract management by teaching them how to navigate the complexities of government contracts and procurement processes. It is perfect for those looking to work in public sector procurement or contract management roles. For more information, visit the Public Procurement and Contract Management concentration page.

Supply Chain Management

• The Supply Chain Management concentration teaches students how to optimize business processes and supply chains. This concentration is ideal for those interested in roles in operations management, logistics, and production planning. For more information, visit the Supply Chain Management concentration page.

For more detailed information about the MBA program and its concentrations, visit the Strome College of Business website.

Citations:
[1] https://online.odu.edu/academics/programs/business-administration-mba
[2] https://www.odu.edu/academics/programs/masters/business-administration
[3] https://www.odu.edu/academics/programs/linked/business-administration
[4] https://www.odu.edu/business
[5] https://www.odu.edu/mba

Radford University

College of Business and Economics

• PO Box 6950, Radford, VA - 24142-6950
• 

The Radford University Davis College of Business and Economics offers a transformative MBA program designed to empower students to excel as leaders in today’s competitive marketplace. Located in Radford, Virginia, the program provides a broad-based, cross-functional education in core business areas with targeted electives in analytics and innovation. The program’s flexibility, affordability, and strong emphasis on practical, real-world applications make it an excellent choice for students looking to advance their careers while balancing other commitments.

Key Student Benefits

Flexible Learning Options

Radford’s MBA program offers both online and on-campus options, allowing students to choose the format that best fits their lifestyle. The online program is particularly flexible, featuring 7-week courses and multiple start dates throughout the year, making it ideal for working professionals.

AACSB Accreditation

The Davis College of Business and Economics is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a distinction held by less than five percent of business schools worldwide. This accreditation ensures that the program meets high standards of excellence and is recognized globally.

Practical Learning Experience

The MBA program at Radford bridges theory and practice through experiential learning opportunities. Students engage in projects that focus on budgeting, human resources, customer acquisition, international finance, and more, providing them with hands-on experience that is directly applicable to their careers.

Career Advancement

The program is designed to prepare students for advanced leadership roles in both the private and public sectors. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers as marketing managers, financial managers, operations managers, and other high-level positions.

Personalized Education

Students can tailor their MBA by choosing electives that complement their core business studies. This customization allows students to focus on areas that align with their career goals and interests, providing a personalized educational experience.

MBA Concentrations Offered by the School

General MBA

• The General MBA provides a comprehensive education in core business areas such as accounting, economics, finance, marketing, operations, organizational behavior, and strategic management. This concentration is ideal for students seeking a broad-based business education that prepares them for a variety of leadership roles. For more information, visit the General MBA page.

Business Analytics

• The Business Analytics concentration focuses on developing skills in data analysis, predictive analytics, and business forecasting. Students learn to leverage data to make informed business decisions, making them highly valuable in today’s data-driven business environment. For more information, visit the Business Analytics concentration page.

For more detailed information about the MBA program and its concentrations, visit the Davis College of Business and Economics website.

Citations:
[1] https://www.radford.edu/content/grad/home/academics/graduate-programs/mba.html
[2] https://online.radford.edu/degrees/business/mba/general/
[3] https://www.radford.edu/content/cobe/home.html
[4] https://www.radford.edu/content/grad/home/academics/graduate-programs/mba/academics/curriculum.html
[5] https://www1.radford.edu/content/grad/home/academics/graduate-programs/mba/about.html

University of Mary Washington

College of Business

• 1301 College Avenue, , VA - 22401
• 

The University of Mary Washington’s College of Business offers a dynamic and transformative MBA program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in today’s competitive business environment. Located in Fredericksburg, Virginia, UMW’s MBA program combines the tradition of a liberal arts education with modern business practices, providing a well-rounded and comprehensive learning experience. The program’s flexibility, strong faculty engagement, and emphasis on practical applications make it an excellent choice for aspiring business leaders.

Key Student Benefits

Flexible Learning Options

UMW’s MBA program offers both online and in-person classes, allowing students to choose the format that best fits their lifestyle. Classes meet one night per week, and most courses are eight weeks long, providing the speed of an accelerated program with the flexibility needed by working adults. Students can earn their degree at their own pace, with options to take a full-time course load or as little as one course at a time.

Small Class Sizes and Accessible Faculty

The program follows the tradition of UMW’s liberal arts mission, featuring small classes taught by accessible and innovative faculty members. This ensures personalized attention and a supportive learning environment where students can engage deeply with their professors and peers.

Strong Career Opportunities

Graduates of the UMW MBA program are well-prepared for leadership positions in various sectors, including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, not-for-profits, and entrepreneurial ventures. The program’s strong reputation and extensive alumni network provide valuable connections and career advancement opportunities.

Practical Learning Experience

UMW integrates theory with hands-on experience, empowering students with practical business skills. The program includes real-world projects and case studies, allowing students to apply their knowledge to actual business challenges and develop critical problem-solving abilities.

Affordability

The UMW MBA program is competitively priced, offering a high-quality education at a reasonable cost. This affordability ensures that students can invest in their future without incurring excessive debt, making it a financially sound choice for many.

MBA Concentrations Offered by the School

General MBA

• The General MBA provides a comprehensive education in core business areas such as accounting, finance, marketing, operations, and strategic management. This concentration is ideal for students seeking a broad-based business education that prepares them for a variety of leadership roles. For more information, visit the General MBA page.

Business Analytics

• The Business Analytics concentration focuses on developing skills in data analysis, predictive analytics, and business forecasting. Students learn to leverage data to make informed business decisions, making them highly valuable in today’s data-driven business environment. For more information, visit the Business Analytics concentration page.

Project Management

• The Project Management concentration provides students with the skills to manage complex projects efficiently. This concentration covers topics such as project planning, risk management, and quality control, making it ideal for those looking to lead projects in various industries. For more information, visit the Project Management concentration page.

Public Procurement and Contract Management

• This concentration prepares students for careers in public procurement and contract management by teaching them how to navigate the complexities of government contracts and procurement processes. It is perfect for those looking to work in public sector procurement or contract management roles. For more information, visit the Public Procurement and Contract Management concentration page.

For more detailed information about the MBA program and its concentrations, visit the UMW College of Business website.

Citations:
[1] https://business.umw.edu/sample-page/degree-programs/graduate-degrees-mba-msmis-dual-mbamsmis/
[2] https://www.umw.edu/admissions/graduate-admissions/mba/
[3] https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-business-schools/university-of-mary-washington-01641
[4] https://find-mba.com/schools/usa/virginia/mary-washington
[5] https://www.unimy.com/school/university-of-mary-washington-college-of-business/full-time-2-years/2069

Virginia State University

Reginald F. Lewis College of Business

• 101 A Singleton Hall, Petersburg, VA - 23806-9398
• 

The Reginald F. Lewis College of Business at Virginia State University (VSU) is a pioneering institution, being the first public Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in Virginia to offer a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program. Located in the heart of the Greater Richmond region, the college is dedicated to providing a comprehensive and innovative business education that prepares students for leadership roles in various industries. The program’s flexibility, strong emphasis on practical applications, and commitment to addressing the underrepresentation of Blacks/African Americans in business management make it an excellent choice for aspiring business professionals.

Key Student Benefits

Flexible Learning Formats

The MBA program at VSU offers both traditional face-to-face and fully online delivery formats. This flexibility allows students to choose the learning style that best fits their personal and professional schedules, making it easier to balance work, life, and study.

Comprehensive Curriculum

The program provides a robust foundation in essential business disciplines, including accounting, finance, computer information systems, data analytics, strategic management, and marketing. This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in various business roles.

Real-World Experience

A capstone course is required, exposing students to real-world business scenarios and providing valuable experience in making informed decisions and implementing effective strategies. This hands-on approach ensures that graduates are ready to tackle real-world business challenges.

Addressing Underrepresentation

With a student population that is over 90 percent Black/African-American, the MBA program at VSU is uniquely positioned to address the underrepresentation of Blacks/African Americans in business management and leadership professions. The program aims to equip a diverse population of men and women with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to thrive in today’s business world.

Strong Career Prospects

According to a 2023 Corporate Recruiters Survey conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), MBA graduates had an estimated median starting salary of $125,000. This highlights the strong career prospects and financial benefits of obtaining an MBA from VSU.

MBA Concentrations Offered by the School

General MBA

• The General MBA provides a comprehensive education in core business areas such as accounting, finance, marketing, operations, and strategic management. This concentration is ideal for students seeking a broad-based business education that prepares them for a variety of leadership roles. For more information, visit the General MBA page.

Business Analytics

• The Business Analytics concentration focuses on developing skills in data analysis, predictive analytics, and business forecasting. Students learn to leverage data to make informed business decisions, making them highly valuable in today’s data-driven business environment. For more information, visit the Business Analytics concentration page.

Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management

• This concentration prepares students to start and grow their own businesses by providing knowledge in venture capital, innovation, and business planning. It is ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to turn their ideas into successful ventures. For more information, visit the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management concentration page.

Marketing Management

• The Marketing Management concentration focuses on consumer behavior, brand management, and digital marketing strategies. This concentration prepares students for careers in marketing management, advertising, and market research. For more information, visit the Marketing Management concentration page.

Strategic Planning and Implementation

• This concentration provides students with the tools to develop and implement effective business strategies. It is suited for those aiming for leadership roles in corporate strategy, business development, and strategic planning. For more information, visit the Strategic Planning and Implementation concentration page.

For more detailed information about the MBA program and its concentrations, visit the Reginald F. Lewis College of Business website.

Citations:
[1] https://www.vsu.edu/news/2024/vsuto-become-first-public-hbcu-in-virginia-to-offer-masters-of-business-administration.php
[2] https://www.vsu.edu/business/about/history.php
[3] https://www.vsu.edu/business/departments/
[4] https://www.vsu.edu/business/
[5] https://www.vsu.edu/business/mba.php

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Pamplin College of Business

• 1030 Pamplin Hall (0209), Blacksburg, VA - 24061
• 

The Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University’s Pamplin College of Business offers a highly regarded MBA program that caters to the needs of working professionals. Located in Blacksburg, Virginia, and with a strong presence in the Washington, D.C. area, the Pamplin College of Business provides a flexible and comprehensive MBA experience. The program’s commitment to academic excellence, innovative curriculum, and strong industry connections make it an excellent choice for students seeking to advance their careers.

Key Student Benefits

Flexible Learning Options

Virginia Tech’s MBA program offers both online and part-time formats, allowing students to choose the learning style that best fits their personal and professional schedules. The online MBA program is 100% online, featuring both synchronous and asynchronous classes, while the part-time MBA offers in-person classes during weekday evenings.

High Rankings and Accreditation

The Pamplin College of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), ensuring a high standard of education. The online MBA program is ranked No. 51 out of 344 in Best Online MBA Programs by U.S. News & World Report, highlighting its quality and reputation.

Strong Career Support

Students have access to the same career services as on-campus business students, including personalized career coaching, networking events, and job placement assistance. This support helps students transition smoothly from academic life to professional careers.

Experienced Faculty

Courses are taught by experienced Virginia Tech MBA faculty members who bring a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience to the classroom. This ensures that students receive a high-quality education that is both current and practical.

Cohort-Based Learning

The cohort-based format fosters a collaborative learning environment where students can build strong professional networks and engage deeply with their peers. This approach enhances the overall learning experience and provides valuable connections for future career opportunities.

MBA Concentrations Offered by the School

Business Analytics

• The Business Analytics concentration focuses on data-driven decision-making. Students learn to leverage big data and advanced analytics to solve complex business problems, making them highly valuable in today’s data-centric business environment. For more information, visit the Business Analytics concentration page.

Entrepreneurial Leadership

• This concentration prepares students for leadership roles in entrepreneurial ventures by teaching them how to develop and implement innovative business strategies. It is ideal for those looking to start their own businesses or lead innovation within existing organizations. For more information, visit the Entrepreneurial Leadership concentration page.

Cybersecurity

• The Cybersecurity concentration provides students with the skills to manage and protect information systems. This concentration covers topics such as risk management, information security policies, and cybersecurity technologies, making it ideal for those looking to pursue careers in cybersecurity management. For more information, visit the Cybersecurity concentration page.

Global Business

• The Global Business concentration focuses on international business strategies, cross-cultural management, and global market dynamics. Students gain the skills needed to navigate and succeed in the global business environment. For more information, visit the Global Business concentration page.

Health Care Administration

• This concentration prepares students for leadership roles in the health care industry by providing knowledge in health care policies, management practices, and health care systems. It is ideal for those looking to advance their careers in health care administration. For more information, visit the Health Care Administration concentration page.

For more detailed information about the MBA program and its concentrations, visit the Pamplin College of Business website.

Citations:
[1] https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/virginia-polytechnic-institute-and-state-university-OBUS0822/mba
[2] https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-business-schools/virginia-polytechnic-institute-and-state-university-01236
[3] https://mba.vt.edu
[4] https://mba.vt.edu/online.html
[5] https://www.mba.com/program-finder/schools/virginia-polytechnic-institute-and-state-university/pamplin-college-of-business