University Headquarters (HQ) is an industry-leading, independent educational organization that provides independent college rankings using a proprietary formula to create first class, unbiased rankings. The team at University HQ strives to provide accurate and trustworthy rankings that highlight the best programs for hybrid MBA programs.
A hybrid MBA program is ideal for those in search of the convenience and flexibility of online classes combined with the advantages of occasional in-person sessions for networking, experiential learning, personal interaction, and more. Most MBA programs last for two years, and schools create most programs specifically for working professionals. Students can also expect team projects and presentations, workshops, video meetings, lively debates, and community engagement opportunities. People choose an MBA for a variety of reasons including higher salary, career shifts, promotions, starting a business, reaching C-Suite status, and others.
Featured Online Programs
Top 25 Best Hybrid Online MBA Programs
Carnegie Mellon University
Score: 90.08
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $63,829
- Out-of-State:$63,829
- Net Price: $33,499
- Acceptance Rate: 11%
- Retention Rate: 97%
- Graduation Rate: 92%
- Total Enrollment: 16,002
- Undergrad Students: 7,059
- Graduate Students: 8,943
- Grads Salary: $108,000
- Student-to-faculty: 5:1
Rice University
Score: 89.59
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $58,128
- Out-of-State:$58,128
- Net Price: $19,902
- Acceptance Rate: 9%
- Retention Rate: 98%
- Graduation Rate: 94%
- Total Enrollment: 8,672
- Undergrad Students: 4,494
- Graduate Students: 4,178
- Grads Salary: $92,000
- Student-to-faculty: 6:1
University of Florida
Score: 83.87
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,381
- Out-of-State:$28,659
- Net Price: $11,740
- Acceptance Rate: 23%
- Retention Rate: 97%
- Graduation Rate: 90%
- Total Enrollment: 55,211
- Undergrad Students: 34,552
- Graduate Students: 20,659
- Grads Salary: $79,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Score: 83.83
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,989
- Out-of-State:$39,330
- Net Price: $10,614
- Acceptance Rate: 17%
- Retention Rate: 96%
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- Total Enrollment: 31,705
- Undergrad Students: 20,029
- Graduate Students: 11,676
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
University of Washington
Score: 83.04
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,643
- Out-of-State:$41,997
- Net Price: $10,603
- Acceptance Rate: 48%
- Retention Rate: 94%
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- Total Enrollment: 52,319
- Undergrad Students: 36,213
- Graduate Students: 16,106
- Grads Salary: $87,000
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
University of Maryland
Score: 81.71
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,505
- Out-of-State:$40,306
- Net Price: $16,210
- Acceptance Rate: 45%
- Retention Rate: 95%
- Graduation Rate: 89%
- Total Enrollment: 40,792
- Undergrad Students: 30,353
- Graduate Students: 10,439
- Grads Salary: $83,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Lehigh University
Score: 81.65
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $62,180
- Out-of-State:$62,180
- Net Price: $30,453
- Acceptance Rate: 37%
- Retention Rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- Total Enrollment: 7,394
- Undergrad Students: 5,624
- Graduate Students: 1,770
- Grads Salary: $91,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Villanova University
Score: 81.33
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $64,701
- Out-of-State:$64,701
- Net Price: $34,837
- Acceptance Rate: 23%
- Retention Rate: 96%
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- Total Enrollment: 10,383
- Undergrad Students: 6,989
- Graduate Students: 3,394
- Grads Salary: $91,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Score: 80.94
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,895
- Out-of-State:$31,767
- Net Price: $14,852
- Acceptance Rate: 47%
- Retention Rate: 94%
- Graduation Rate: 85%
- Total Enrollment: 36,700
- Undergrad Students: 26,254
- Graduate Students: 10,446
- Grads Salary: $82,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Stevens Institute of Technology
Score: 80.05
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $60,952
- Out-of-State:$60,952
- Net Price: $41,689
- Acceptance Rate: 46%
- Retention Rate: 93%
- Graduation Rate: 88%
- Total Enrollment: 9,314
- Undergrad Students: 4,070
- Graduate Students: 5,244
- Grads Salary: $101,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
Babson College
Score: 79.64
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $56,032
- Out-of-State:$56,032
- Net Price: $28,400
- Acceptance Rate: 22%
- Retention Rate: 95%
- Graduation Rate: 93%
- Total Enrollment: 3,989
- Undergrad Students: 2,761
- Graduate Students: 1,228
- Grads Salary: $82,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
William & Mary
Score: 79.52
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $25,040
- Out-of-State:$49,412
- Net Price: $25,688
- Acceptance Rate: 33%
- Retention Rate: 95%
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- Total Enrollment: 9,654
- Undergrad Students: 6,797
- Graduate Students: 2,857
- Grads Salary: $80,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Northeastern University
Score: 79.3
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $63,141
- Out-of-State:$63,141
- Net Price: $35,827
- Acceptance Rate: 7%
- Retention Rate: 97%
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- Total Enrollment: 30,013
- Undergrad Students: 16,302
- Graduate Students: 13,711
- Grads Salary: $87,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Florida State University
Score: 78.16
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,656
- Out-of-State:$18,786
- Net Price: $14,003
- Acceptance Rate: 25%
- Retention Rate: 94%
- Graduation Rate: 85%
- Total Enrollment: 44,161
- Undergrad Students: 32,936
- Graduate Students: 11,225
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Score: 77.86
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $19,022
- Out-of-State:$35,934
- Net Price: $17,762
- Acceptance Rate: 66%
- Retention Rate: 89%
- Graduation Rate: 74%
- Total Enrollment: 12,332
- Undergrad Students: 9,019
- Graduate Students: 3,313
- Grads Salary: $88,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Score: 76.81
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $61,884
- Out-of-State:$61,884
- Net Price: $39,127
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Retention Rate: 89%
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- Total Enrollment: 6,968
- Undergrad Students: 5,902
- Graduate Students: 1,066
- Grads Salary: $97,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Texas A&M University-College Station
Score: 76.8
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,099
- Out-of-State:$40,328
- Net Price: $20,375
- Acceptance Rate: 63%
- Retention Rate: 95%
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- Total Enrollment: 74,014
- Undergrad Students: 57,512
- Graduate Students: 16,502
- Grads Salary: $80,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
University of Delaware
Score: 76.53
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $16,080
- Out-of-State:$39,720
- Net Price: $18,044
- Acceptance Rate: 74%
- Retention Rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 80%
- Total Enrollment: 24,039
- Undergrad Students: 19,482
- Graduate Students: 4,557
- Grads Salary: $81,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh
Score: 76.17
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $21,524
- Out-of-State:$39,890
- Net Price: $24,286
- Acceptance Rate: 49%
- Retention Rate: 93%
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- Total Enrollment: 33,767
- Undergrad Students: 24,420
- Graduate Students: 9,347
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Score: 76.03
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $17,357
- Out-of-State:$39,293
- Net Price: $22,291
- Acceptance Rate: 64%
- Retention Rate: 90%
- Graduation Rate: 83%
- Total Enrollment: 32,229
- Undergrad Students: 24,391
- Graduate Students: 7,838
- Grads Salary: $82,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
The Pennsylvania State University
Score: 75.22
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $20,234
- Out-of-State:$40,188
- Net Price: $26,747
- Acceptance Rate: 55%
- Retention Rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 83%
- Total Enrollment: 50,028
- Undergrad Students: 41,745
- Graduate Students: 8,283
- Grads Salary: $81,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Score: 75.05
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $59,070
- Out-of-State:$59,070
- Net Price: $46,876
- Acceptance Rate: 57%
- Retention Rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 89%
- Total Enrollment: 7,308
- Undergrad Students: 5,246
- Graduate Students: 2,062
- Grads Salary: $95,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Indiana University-Bloomington
Score: 74.68
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,790
- Out-of-State:$40,482
- Net Price: $16,234
- Acceptance Rate: 82%
- Retention Rate: 90%
- Graduation Rate: 81%
- Total Enrollment: 47,005
- Undergrad Students: 35,660
- Graduate Students: 11,345
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
University of South Florida
Score: 74.67
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,410
- Out-of-State:$17,324
- Net Price: $11,004
- Acceptance Rate: 44%
- Retention Rate: 90%
- Graduation Rate: 74%
- Total Enrollment: 49,600
- Undergrad Students: 38,047
- Graduate Students: 11,553
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
Santa Clara University
Score: 74.66
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $59,241
- Out-of-State:$59,241
- Net Price: $50,551
- Acceptance Rate: 52%
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 89%
- Total Enrollment: 9,178
- Undergrad Students: 6,115
- Graduate Students: 3,063
- Grads Salary: $96,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Why Get an MBA Degree?
People pursue an MBA for various reasons. Some choose it to switch careers, especially as technological advances and automation make traditional jobs less common or obsolete. An MBA allows individuals to specialize in a new area without needing another bachelor’s degree.
Hybrid MBA programs offer valuable networking and hands-on learning opportunities. Students gain connections through interactions with peers both in person and online. These programs often include projects with real businesses and work experiences. Additionally, alumni events and career fairs provide access to potential employers, and some teams may even start their own ventures after graduation.
Career advancement is another key reason for pursuing an MBA. This can lead to promotions, salary increases, and new opportunities. Ultimately, an MBA enhances career prospects and earning potential. An MBA also helps candidates stand out in a global job market. With competition now coming from talent across the world, an MBA can give applicants an edge over those without one.
Find Your Online Business Administration Program
What to Look for in a Hybrid/Online MBA?
Each MBA program has its own features and structure, with your chosen concentration influencing the format and content. It’s important to select a concentration that aligns with your personal interests, as this will make your career more enjoyable. However, remember that what you excel at may not always be what you enjoy most, so finding the right balance is key.
Consider whether your chosen concentration will remain relevant over the next 20 years, as specializations can change quickly. Since an MBA is a terminal degree for many, selecting a future-proof concentration is important. Also, think about the flexibility of the program—check if the school offers evening or weekend classes if needed, and ensure you can easily access the campus for any in-person requirements.
Other factors to consider include the cost, school accreditation, networking opportunities, corporate partnerships, experiential learning options, peer engagement, career services, and mentorship programs. Ultimately, choose an MBA program that best aligns with your personal and professional priorities.
MBA Concentrations
An MBA with a concentration offers a greater advantage for long-term job security. Specializing in a niche area makes you more in demand compared to a general MBA, giving you a competitive edge and showcasing your expertise to employers.
Choosing a concentration also allows you to work with peers who share similar interests, expanding your network and making the MBA experience more enjoyable. These connections can provide long-term career benefits. The concentration you select can shape your future career opportunities, whether by improving your prospects within your current field or enabling a career shift to enhance job security. It will also affect the types of roles you qualify for.
You can choose from a wide array of concentrations, such as:
- Accounting
- Business Analytics
- Corporate Strategy
- Criminal Justice
- Cybersecurity
- Economics
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- Forensic Accounting
- Healthcare Management
- Human Resources
- International Management
- IT
- Logistics
- Marketing
- Operations Management
- Project Management
- Public Administration
- Supply Chain Management
Jobs for MBA Graduates
- Analytics Manager:
Data is power in today’s business world. Analytics managers will create strategies for collecting and analyzing data as well as provide solutions for conducting research. - Marketing Manager:
Marketing managers are responsible for developing a strategic marketing plan that encompasses all industry-relevant marketing initiatives including social media, content, videos, branding, and more. - Medical and Health Services Manager:
A medical and health services manager is in control of regulation compliance, standard of care, records protection, quality control, and cost reductions. - Finance Manager:
Finance managers continue to increase in demand to help make businesses more profitable and sustainable. - IT Manager:
An IT manager can specialize in many different areas including sales, systems, databases, networks, the cloud, and more. - Operations Manager:
An operations manager position often requires an MBA as the operations of many businesses today are highly complex, diverse, and global. The overall goal of these managers is to create efficiency without compromising quality.
Costs/Rewards of an MBA
While an MBA can be costly, the benefits often outweigh the expenses. On average, a two-year MBA program costs between $50,000 and $80,000, though top programs can exceed $100,000 annually, while less prestigious ones may be closer to $25,000. Additionally, consider the time commitment, as balancing work, family, and personal life with coursework may require significant sacrifices.
Despite these costs, the rewards can be substantial. MBA graduates often see salary increases of over $30,000 per year, with some even doubling their income over time. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of global markets, strengthen business skills, and improve communication, presentation, and time management. Networking opportunities are also a major benefit, and many graduates find that employers begin to pursue them, rather than the other way around.
Find Your Online Business Administration Program
Frequently Asked Questions
- When should you start an MBA?
The right time to start an MBA is whenever it is right for you. It will disrupt your life in at least a minor way no matter when you choose to take your courses. Luckily, hybrid programs help to make work, life, and an MBA program more manageable. Be sure to look for flexible programs that work with your life schedule, and it's a good idea to sit down and create a five-year plan so that you can manage the time and life decisions that are within your control while you complete the program. - Do I have to take the GMAT or any other entrance exam?
The GMAT or GRE is traditionally necessary to gain acceptance into most top programs. However, this is changing. In a growing number of programs, you can substitute your work experience for having to complete a standardized test for admission. Keep in mind that some MBA programs do not require it at all. - Is there an accelerated MBA program?
It is possible to complete an accelerated MBA program in one year or less. These programs typically focus more on a student’s career goals and concentration rather than having students take a large number of business core classes. This type of advanced program is often more demanding than a two-year program; however, some people feel a greater disruption for one year is better than moderate disruption for two years. The decision is ultimately yours. - Can I complete a bachelor’s degree and an MBA at the same time?
Many students are choosing programs that combine both a bachelor’s degree and an MBA. The programs are often called by different names at different colleges and universities, such as a dual MBA degree, 4+1, combined, and more. You can also choose the format of a program including in-person, online, hybrid, nights, or weekends. - How can I lower the cost of an MBA?
MBAs are a significant investment for most people. It’s possible to secure scholarships and grants to help lower the cost of an MBA. Colleges and universities offer scholarships as well as professional organizations. And keep in mind that employers will often help pay for tuition reimbursement as long as you maintain a C average. This average and their willingness to provide this assistance will depend upon the employer.