2024 Rankings of the Best Online MBA Programs in Washington

Compare MBA Degrees in Washington

$48,466

Average Tuition

$91,447

Average Starting Salary

562

Average GMAT Scores

258

Average Student Enrollment

Key Highlights:

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

- Detailed profiles of both online and on-campus MBA programs in Washington, their strengths, unique specializations, faculty expertise, and alumni networks are included to help align your study choice with your career ambitions.

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

Washington State boasts a robust economy with strong sectors such as technology, aerospace, healthcare, agriculture, and retail. These sectors provide numerous opportunities for MBA graduates.

The technology sector is a significant driver of Washington's economy. An MBA with a specialization in Technology Management or Information Systems could lead to promising opportunities within this industry. Aerospace is another major industry in the state. Those specializing in Operations Management or Supply Chain Management can find rewarding roles within this sector.

Healthcare is another prominent industry in Washington. For those pursuing an MBA with a focus on Healthcare Administration or Healthcare Management, there are ample career prospects. The state's thriving agriculture sector provides opportunities for those with an Agribusiness or Sustainability specialization. Lastly, the retail industry offers roles for those specializing in Marketing or Retail Management.

Find Online MBA Programs Now Accepting Washington Residents

Major Industries	Relevance to MBA Students
Technology	Opportunities for specializations in Technology Management or Information Systems
Aerospace	Ideal for concentrations in Operations Management or Supply Chain Management
Healthcare	Suitable for specializations in Healthcare Administration or Management
Agriculture	Roles available for Agribusiness or Sustainability specializations
Retail	Careers for those with Marketing or Retail Management specialization

Here are some top companies in Washington where MBA graduates often find employment:

- Microsoft: As one of the world's leading technology companies, Microsoft offers various leadership roles suitable for MBA graduates.

- Amazon: This global e-commerce giant provides ample opportunities for MBAs with a focus on marketing and supply chain management.

- Boeing: As one of the largest aerospace manufacturers globally, Boeing offers roles within operations management – ideal for those with an MBA specialization in Operations Management.

- Starbucks Corporation: This globally recognized coffee brand offers roles suited to MBAs specializing in Marketing or Retail Management.

- Providence Health & Services: A healthcare organization that offers various strategic planning and healthcare administration roles – perfect for those with an MBA specialization in Healthcare Administration.

The School of Business at City University of Seattle offers a highly flexible and innovative MBA program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in a diverse range of industries. Located in the heart of Seattle, CityU’s MBA program emphasizes practical skills, ethical leadership, and global business perspectives. The program’s flexible scheduling options, experienced faculty, and strong industry connections make it one of the best choices for aspiring business professionals in the region.

Key Student Benefits

1. Flexible Learning Options

CityU’s MBA program offers a variety of formats, including online, weekday in-class, mixed-mode, and intensive weekend programs. This flexibility allows students to choose the schedule that best fits their professional and personal commitments, making it easier to balance work, life, and education.

2. Stackable MBA

The program features a stackable MBA option, allowing students to add single or multiple emphasis areas to their degree. This customization enables students to tailor their education to their specific career goals and interests, enhancing their expertise in targeted areas.

3. Industry-Relevant Curriculum

Developed in partnership with business leaders from key industries, the MBA curriculum at CityU focuses on emerging business challenges and practical applications. Courses cover topics such as digital marketing, data-driven decision making, financial control, and entrepreneurship, ensuring that students gain the skills needed to succeed in today’s dynamic business environment.

4. Experienced Faculty

Courses are taught by practitioner faculty who bring real-world experience into the classroom. This ensures that students receive a relevant and practical education that is directly applicable to their careers.

5. No GMAT Requirement

CityU’s MBA program does not require the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or any other standardized test for enrollment consideration. This makes the application process more accessible and less stressful for prospective students.

MBA Concentrations Offered by the School

CityU offers several MBA concentrations that allow students to tailor their education to their career aspirations. These concentrations include:

Marketing
Project Management
Accounting
Entrepreneurship
Finance
General Management
Human Resources Management
Leadership
Supply Chain Management/Logistics
Technology Management

Marketing
The Marketing concentration teaches students to leverage digital marketing, content marketing, and marketing management to navigate modern marketing challenges. Courses prepare students to sit for the Professional Certified Marketer (PCM) exam, enhancing their credentials and career prospects. Learn more about the Marketing concentration.

Project Management
The Project Management concentration is accredited by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and prepares students for the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® and Project Management Professional (PMP)® exams. This concentration is ideal for those looking to manage projects across various industries, including government, healthcare, and IT. Learn more about the Project Management concentration.

Accounting
The Accounting concentration focuses on advanced financial reporting, auditing, and taxation. This concentration is perfect for those pursuing careers in public accounting, corporate finance, or governmental accounting. Learn more about the Accounting concentration.

Entrepreneurship
The Entrepreneurship concentration equips students with the skills to start and grow their own businesses. Courses cover venture creation, business planning, and entrepreneurial finance, providing a comprehensive understanding of the entrepreneurial process. Learn more about the Entrepreneurship concentration.

Finance
The Finance concentration focuses on financial management, investment analysis, and corporate finance. This concentration prepares students for careers in investment banking, financial planning, and corporate finance. Learn more about the Finance concentration.

General Management
The General Management concentration allows students to gain a broad understanding of various business disciplines, making it suitable for those looking to pursue diverse career paths in business. Learn more about the General Management concentration.

Human Resources Management
The Human Resources Management concentration focuses on developing skills in employee relations, talent management, and organizational development. This concentration is ideal for those pursuing careers in HR management and consulting. Learn more about the Human Resources Management concentration.

Leadership
The Leadership concentration emphasizes strategic leadership, organizational behavior, and change management. This concentration prepares students for leadership roles in various industries, including corporate management and non-profit organizations. Learn more about the Leadership concentration.

Supply Chain Management/Logistics
The Supply Chain Management/Logistics concentration provides students with a deep understanding of logistics and operations management. This concentration prepares students for careers in supply chain management, logistics, and operations management. Learn more about the Supply Chain Management/Logistics concentration.

Technology Management
The Technology Management concentration focuses on managing technology-driven industries. Courses cover technology strategy, innovation management, and digital transformation, making it ideal for those pursuing careers in IT management and technology consulting. Learn more about the Technology Management concentration.

The School of Business at City University of Seattle offers a robust and flexible MBA program that prepares students for leadership roles in various industries. With its strong emphasis on practical skills, flexible learning options, and comprehensive student support, the CityU MBA program is an excellent choice for students looking to advance their careers and make a significant impact in the business world.

Citations:
[1] https://www.cityu.edu/programs-overview/master-business-administration/
[2] https://www.cityu.edu/school-of-business-and-management/
[3] https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/city-university-of-seattle-OBUS0115/mba
[4] https://www.cityu.edu/programs-overview/executive-mba/
[5] https://www.cityu.edu/school-of-business-and-management/can-i-get-into-an-mba-program-if-i-didnt-take-the-gmat/

RANKED 1

Seattle University

Albers School of Business and Economics

PO Box 222000, Seattle, WA - 98122-1090

The Albers School of Business and Economics at Seattle University is a top-tier institution located in the bustling heart of Seattle. Known for its immersive, tech-connected academic and professional programs, Albers provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the modern business world. The school’s Jesuit approach emphasizes ethical leadership and social responsibility, challenging students to think deeply about how business can be a force for good. With strong industry support, experienced faculty, and a commitment to equity-focused education, Albers prepares future business leaders to transform the world through innovative and ethical business practices.

Key Student Benefits

1. Small Class Sizes

Low student-to-faculty ratios allow students to build close relationships with professors and peers who support them throughout their careers.

2. Deep Relationships with Seattle’s Business Community

Albers leverages its central location in the heart of Seattle, a hub for major corporations like Amazon, Starbucks, Microsoft, PACCAR and Boeing to provide students with unparalleled networking opportunities. The school’s strong ties to the business community facilitate internships, job opportunities and real-world projects, giving students a competitive edge in the job market.

3. Experienced Faculty

The faculty at Albers are not only accomplished scholars but also seasoned professionals with real-world experience. This combination ensures that students receive a well-rounded education that blends theoretical knowledge with practical application. Faculty members are dedicated to student success, offering personalized attention and mentorship.

4. Ethical Leadership Focus

Since 1947, Albers has taught its students that there’s more to business success than just profitability. Students are taught to lead organizations that prioritize people, communities and the environment, and to leverage business as an instrument of change.

5. Dedicated Career Center

The Albers Career Center is the only college-dedicated career center in Seattle University. It provides extensive support to students and alumni including career coaching, internship assistance, professional development workshops, visits to company headquarters and more. Their acclaimed Mentor Program is nearly four decades old.

MBA Programs Offered by Seattle University

The Albers School of Business and Economics offers many MBA Programs that allow students to tailor their education to their career aspirations. These Programs include:

Early Career MBA

The Early Career MBA at Seattle University’s Albers School of Business and Economics is a 12-month, full-time, cohort-based program designed for recent graduates with non-business degrees and limited work experience (0-3 years). This accelerated program provides a strong academic foundation in business, offering hands-on experiential learning through projects, internships, and co-curricular activities like career development seminars and the Albers Mentor Program.Students complete 48 credits over four quarters, including a six-credit capstone course. Classes are held in the mornings during the fall, winter, and spring quarters, with evening classes in the summer to accommodate internships. The program is tailored to help non-business undergraduates gain business acumen and leadership skills to fast-track their careers or pivot into business-related fields.

Accounting and Analytics

Designed for individuals with an accounting undergraduate degree, the STEM-designated MS in Accounting & Analytics equips students with a unique blend of financial expertise and analytics knowhow. Learn how to leverage data analytics for strategic financial insight while sharpening critical thinking skills.

Master of Professional Accounting

The STEM-designated Master in Professional Accounting program helps non-accounting undergraduates pivot fully to a career in accounting or boost their career trajectories. The program allows individuals looking to sit the CPA exam a roadmap to gaining this credential or other preferred credentials such as CIA, CMA, CISA or EA.

Business Analytics

The Business Analytics program equips students with the skills to analyze and interpret complex data to make informed business decisions. Courses cover topics such as data mining, predictive analytics and business intelligence. This program is for individuals looking to be the interface between tech teams and senior leadership by parsing data, understanding the implications for the organization and making strategic recommendations based on the findings.

Finance

The Finance program focuses on financial management, investment analysis, and corporate finance. Students learn to evaluate financial performance, manage investment portfolios, and understand financial markets. This program prepares students for careers in investment banking, financial planning, and corporate finance.

Sport and Entertainment

The Sport and Entertainment Management MBA at Seattle University’s Albers School of Business and Economics is an immersive program designed to develop leaders in the sports and entertainment industries. The curriculum is closely integrated with industry professionals, providing students with hands-on projects, mini-consulting opportunities, and insights from experts. Students benefit from extensive networking opportunities with sport executives, mentors, and an active Advisory Board, while also engaging in a Professional Development Program that focuses on leadership and career skills. The program emphasizes experiential learning through partnerships with Seattle’s business community, including unique opportunities like the Seattle Seahawks – MBA SEM Associate Program. Additionally, it promotes diversity and inclusion within the industry. The MBA is available both in-person and online, offering flexibility for working professionals. An immersive program that works closely with sport industry professionals and experts to develop leaders in this dynamic industry. Online option available.

Leadership Executive MBA

The Leadership Executive MBA (LEMBA) at Seattle University’s Albers School of Business and Economics is a top-tier program designed for seasoned professionals looking to elevate their leadership capabilities. This program emphasizes strategic thinking, executive decision-making, and a deep understanding of global business dynamics. The curriculum is structured around five broad themes and includes multidisciplinary exposure, rigorous application of concepts, and ongoing one-on-one executive coaching. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized faculty interaction, and a cohort of accomplished peers, providing a rich network for collaboration and growth. The program is designed to accommodate busy professionals, with classes meeting once a month in three-day modules, allowing students to complete the degree in two academic years. The LEMBA is ranked #21 nationally by U.S. News & World Report for 2025 and is the only Executive MBA program in the Pacific Northwest recognized in the Top 25. The program focuses on developing authentic leaders who can influence and inspire others while making a positive impact on their organizations and communities.

Institution
Institution Control: Private
AACSB Accreditation: Business
Academic Year: Quarter

Student / Faculty Ratio
Institution: 10:1
MBA Tuition & Fees
In-State Tuition: 54594
Average GMAT Score
Average GMAT MBA: 549

RANKED 2

Gonzaga University

School of Business Administration

502 East Boone Avenue, Spokane, WA - 99258-0009

The Gonzaga University School of Business Administration offers a distinguished MBA program that combines rigorous academics with a strong emphasis on ethical leadership and social responsibility. Located in Spokane, Washington, Gonzaga’s MBA program is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in a dynamic and complex economic environment. The program’s flexibility, expert faculty, and Jesuit values make it one of the best options for aspiring business leaders in the state.