Online MBA programs

Earning your MBA online can help you build the career-critical business skills necessary to thrive in mid- to senior-level business roles — on a flexible schedule. Learn why this path may be right for you.

Explore MBA degrees

Why earn an online MBA?

Flexible schedules

Schools may offer or fully remote classes with evening or asynchronous options.

Executive career path

Schools tailor programs to prepare graduates for management and executive roles.

Better job security

MBA grads enjoy the highest hiring rate in the field.

Key takeaways

  • Online MBA programs build advanced leadership, management, and analytical skills.
  • With an MBA, you can pursue management roles that pay a median salary of $125,000, according to GMAC data.
  • On edX, you can study on a flexible schedule and earn your MBA online from an accredited university.

Are you ready to discover new, higher-paying opportunities in business? Earning an online master's in business administration (MBA) can position you to land leadership roles like executive, director, and manager. Explore employment outlooks for online MBA grads and learn about earning your degree with edX in this guide.

What jobs can you get with an online MBA?

Typical industries associated with MBA-level roles include , , , healthcare, and . These jobs can include:

Human resources manager

Human resource managers work across industries to coordinate workforce hiring, benefits, and duties. These employees are often responsible for negotiating and mediating workplace conflict. They may also consult with managers to ensure compliance with employment regulations.

Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) median annual salary (2024): $140,030


Typical salaries for MBA graduates

According to the 2025 Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) Corporate Recruiters Survey, MBA graduates earn a median salary of $125,000. However, this varies based on a worker's industry, location, and role.

For instance, according to 2024 data from the BLS, health services managers make a median salary of $117,960 a year, while chief executives earn a median salary of $206,420 annually.

Career outlook for MBA graduates

With a 91% hire rate, according to the 2025 GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey, MBA grads represent the most hired group among job seekers in the business field. Additionally, graduates can apply the skills they've developed across industries.

Is an online MBA worth it?

If you're following an executive career path and aiming for high-salary roles, an may be .

MBA degree-holders commonly qualify for high-paying positions, with graduates earning a median salary of $125,000 a year, according to the 2025 GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey. This is greater than the median salary of professionals who only hold a bachelor's degree: $80,236, according to BLS data. It’s a payoff that many workers expect. In a , 91% of respondents reported that further education their chances of earning a raise.

edX offers online business administration degree programs in partnership with leading universities. In all the online MBA programs, university faculty teach live online classes that are kept small to encourage discussion and debate. These programs are designed for working professionals and can accommodate a variety of schedules.

What can you learn in an online MBA program?

An online MBA program typically covers the major tenets of business, including , , and . Most schools design with management roles in mind. You'll often find the following topics and concentrations in a full-time MBA program:

  • Leadership
  • Organizational behavior

Admissions requirements for an online MBA

Every MBA program operates differently, but most include such as:

  • A bachelor's degree
  • Statement of purpose
  • Personal essay
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Work experience

While work experience and or scores aren't required for every MBA program, it's worth noting that work history and scores are commonly required for applicants.

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Preguntas frecuentes

What can you do with an online MBA?

An online MBA can open the door to a variety of high-paying roles in industries like finance, tech, and healthcare. The lessons learned in an MBA program, such as leadership and operations, can apply to many management positions.

Is it worth it to get an online MBA?

Whether or not an online MBA program is worth it depends on your career goals and finances. Graduates of MBA programs earn a median salary of $125,000 per year, according to the GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey. Exact salaries depend on your industry, role, and location.

How long does it take to earn an online MBA?

As a , completing an online MBA program typically takes about two years. However, if you enroll on a , it may take three or four years to graduate.

What is the difference between an online MBA and an online master's degree?

A can focus on various subjects, while an MBA — a master of business administration — concentrates solely on business principles. MBA programs often operate as stepping stones to leadership roles. As a result, MBA programs may list work experience as an admissions requirement.