Top Online MBA Programs in Global Management

Some of the most exciting business opportunities are in growing markets overseas. Companies across the country are seeking young executives with global management skills to take advantage of these developments and run their international business campaigns. Federal experts expect steady job growth for administrative service managers and sales managers, who tend to earn high wages, as well.

An online MBA in global management equips learners with valuable skills for employment in the field. Read on to discover how to enter this booming industry, learn about the top online MBA programs, get ideas on how to pay for school, and understand how to grow a career after graduation.

What Is an MBA in Global Management?

MBAs in global management combine a well-rounded education in business and leadership with an understanding of world markets. Students develop executive skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis. They also learn relevant personnel management and communication skills for modern business environments.

Degrees in global management can open up a world of opportunity as graduates apply their knowledge in a variety of fields. Some might work as executives overseas, while others find sales employment stateside. Still others might live a life of travel while directing administrative services. The skills gained in the best online MBA programs prove highly marketable in an array of careers.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects management occupations to grow faster than the average profession over the next decade, making now an ideal time to earn an online MBA.

Why Should You Get an Online MBA in Global Management?

Students can choose from a wealth of online MBA degrees in global management. Due to the nature of typical business programs, online formats offer an excellent medium for MBA learning. Business takes place primarily online today, making the internet a convenient place to learn about best practices in the field.

Online global management degrees cover the basics of business, including accounting, economics, and marketing. They also develop leadership skills and explore the world of business beyond U.S. borders. Some of the top online MBA programs host residencies and internships that provide valuable experience in the field, some of which require travel. Many colleges and universities design their programs to allow students to continue working while earning their degrees.

Online MBA programs often prioritize teamwork and camaraderie by using the cohort model, which builds friendships and networking opportunities. Web-based program graduates tend to earn back their educational investment quickly. Salaries range from $75,000-$150,000.

What Can You Do With an MBA in Global Management?

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Chief Operating Officer

The role of a COO varies among companies and industries. These professionals earn a median salary of $143,000. Most COOs take command of their businesses' daily operations, ranking just below CEOs. They typically bring excellent leadership, communications, strategy, and intrapersonal skills. The job outlook generally stays strong for these important officers because most larger corporations need them.

Management Consultant

Companies hire management consultants to assess their business and suggest areas of improvement. Management consultants look at all aspects of corporate operations, including personnel, assets, productivity, and branding. They help executives hone and refine their companies' profiles, fix problems, and strategize the best ways forward. Median compensation for these consultants is approximately $87,000.

Skills required for management consulting include business analysis, strategic vision, problem-solving, communication, and critical thinking. The job market remains strong as companies try to strengthen their positions in competitive markets.

International Sales Manager

International sales managers promote business overseas. They create demand and find buyers for their companies' products, negotiate contracts, and facilitate the delivery of goods to international markets. Most take home about $78,000 annually. Required skills for these positions include excellent communication (often in foreign languages) and sales, business development, and market analysis abilities. Thanks to growing global markets, international sales managers typically find ready audiences for their services.

Administrative Services Manager

Companies employ administrative services managers to run their operations' support services. These might include human resource duties, fulfillment-type roles, or managing a particular department. Administrative services managers might take responsibility for hiring and firing, shipping and receiving, printing and manufacturing, facilities maintenance, and even training.

Job skills vary by industry, but they usually entail business acumen, logistical aptitude, and communication and problem-solving abilities. Median income sits at about $96,000, with an above-average projected job growth for the profession.

Sales Manager

Sales managers run their companies' marketing and sales staff. These professionals promote goods to buyers, close sales, prepare budgets, analyze sales, and strategize new markets and sales opportunities. Many hold executive positions at corporations. Sales managers earn a median annual salary of $124,000. They usually bring exceptional "people" skills and excel at strategy, customer service, communication, and leadership. Experts predict average job growth in the field.

Online MBA in Global Management Curriculum

MBA programs in global management vary by school. Most incorporate business administration and international leadership tracks. Curricula might lean one way or the other, so check with schools of interest to see what they offer. Core classes might include those below.

• Global Strategy

  How businesses position themselves for success in the modern world market is the focus of this three-credit course. Students learn to enter foreign markets, deal with governments, and build strong opportunities overseas.

• Economics for Managers

  This course looks at the microeconomic tools available to administrators. Participants study pricing, demand and costs, market regulations, and international opportunities. They also learn data analysis as it applies to economics.

• Business Leadership

  Students explore top-level executive skills in this course. They develop skills in critical thinking, strategy, communication, problem-solving, and personnel administration. They also look into mentor relationships and learn the best practices for modern management.

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How to Choose the Right Online MBA in Global Management Program

Every online MBA in global management takes its own approach, and finding the right online MBA requires time and care. Many factors weigh into the process, including how much a program costs, full- or part-time attendance, accreditation, faculty, specializations, and career services.

Program cost is among the most important factors for applicants to consider. Online degrees often offer advantages regarding price, and many allow students to work while earning their degrees. Prospective students should consider how many classes they can fit into their schedule, which determines whether they can attend full time or part time. They must also note whether schools require internships, travel, or residencies, all of which affect learners' work schedules.

Master's in international business programs differ from master’s of business in global management. The latter likely takes a more leadership-oriented approach. Moreover, master's degrees in public administration often focus on the public sector. Consider specialization offerings by each MBA, as these can vary widely among global management programs. Some might focus on executive skills, while others veer toward international relations.

Spend some time narrowing down your interests, and you can surely find just the right program for you.

Scholarships for Global Management MBA Programs

Aspiring business students enjoy an array of scholarship options. Learners can begin their search by looking at grant options for their fields of study. They should apply for as many scholarships as possible, as well, even if their grades do not qualify. Many corporations, foundations, and charitable groups sponsor scholarships that consider factors other than academics, such as community involvement.

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Business Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship

Who Can Apply: The Mortgage Reports sponsors these funds to help aspiring professionals finance their education in accredited business programs. Recipients must be 17 or older and hold a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Amount: $1,000

Apply for Scholarship

Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship

Who Can Apply: Zonta offers 38 Jane M. Klausman scholarships to promising young female business students. Candidates must hail from one of the Zonta districts across the country and attend accredited universities. Eligibility runs from the second undergraduate year through a master's.

Amount: $2,000-8,000

Apply for Scholarship

The Association of Women in International Trade (WIIT) Scholarship

Who Can Apply: WIIT established these biannual scholarships to create more opportunities for young women in the global business world. Applicants must identify as female and attend an accredited U.S. university.

Amount: $1,500

Apply for Scholarship

CustomerServ Scholarship

Who Can Apply: Business students at accredited universities may qualify. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and submit an essay and video explaining why they entered the business field.

Amount: $7,500

Apply for Scholarship

AfterCollege Business Scholarship

Who Can Apply: Students pursuing degrees in a variety of business-related fields can apply for this scholarship. Sponsored by AfterCollege, the funds go to AfterCollege members with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Amount: Varies

Apply for Scholarship

Professional Organizations for Global Management

Professional associations bring together like-minded individuals and offer priceless networking, professional development, and career-advancement opportunities. A good idea for anyone in a new profession, membership makes more sense than ever for budding business executives, who need to make connections to build their careers.

International Association for Human Resource Information Management

The association works to share knowledge about HR best practices on a global scale. It strives for business excellence through technology, innovation, and analytics. Members can network, attend conferences and webinars, participate in forums, and access the organization's publications.

The International Association for Contract and Commercial Management

The IAACCM promotes globally networked markets, bringing together business, legal, and communication professionals. It sponsors events, offers training opportunities, provides a research forum, and does advocacy work.

The International Academy of Management and Business

The IAMB takes an academic approach to the world of business, uniting scholars, researchers, and businesspeople. The organization hosts an annual conference and regional events, publishes a journal, and serves as a clearinghouse of research on global affairs.

Institute of Management Specialists

From its home in Manchester, England, the IMS promotes management excellence worldwide. The organization boasts members in almost 40 nations and offers professional certification to those who qualify.

Association of Management/International Association of Management

Based in Virginia, this membership organization serves professionals from around the globe. It sponsors a conference, publishes papers, and disseminates the latest research in global management.

Top Online MBA Programs in Global Management

How We Rank Online MBA Programs

Want to know how we create our rankings? We assess schools based on academic quality, affordability, online flexibility, and student success.

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1. Clarkson University

   Location

   Potsdam, NY

   Tuition

   $31376

   Graduation Rate

   75%

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   Located in Potsdam, New York, Clarkson University offers a flexible MBA with a concentration in global supply chain management, with part- and full-time options. The program requires 42 credits and provides a solid business foundation, allowing learners to tailor the program to fit their career goals. This degree includes 10 foundation courses, and students can choose an additional four.

   Required courses cover topics like leadership and organizational behavior, decision-making, marketing management, corporate and ethical social responsibility, and managerial economics. Before earning their diplomas, students must complete a strategic management capstone involving a real-world business situation.

   Clarkson University maintains relatively small class sizes, with an average student-to-faculty ratio of 14-to-1, and 77% of students earn financial aid. Aside from turning in an online application, individuals must submit all collegiate transcripts, GRE or GMAT test scores and 2-3 letters of recommendation.

   Other Concentrations

   • Global Supply Chain Management
   • Healthcare Management
   • Business Fundamentals
2. University of Virginia

   Location

   Charlottesville, VA

   Tuition

   $17845

   Graduation Rate

   94%

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   In Charlottesville, Virginia, the University of Virginia provides graduates with the skills they need to thrive in business with a global executive MBA. This distance program requires two weekly distance sessions on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.

   The program's core curriculum comprises 10 courses covering topics like leadership communication, marketing, operations management, business ethics, and accounting basics. Students also get to choose their own electives from a predetermined list, which features topics like entrepreneurial thinking, negotiations, mergers and acquisitions and real estate finance and development.

   In addition to an application and application fee, individuals must submit an updated resume, transcripts, a standardized test score, and one recommendation. Students must take the GMAT before earning admission to the university. The University of Virginia offers financial aid, which 28% of students receive.

   Other Concentrations

   • Global Supply Chain Management
   • Healthcare Management
   • Business Fundamentals
3. Rider University

   Location

   Lawrenceville, NJ

   Tuition

   $29284

   Graduation Rate

   65%

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   Rider University, a private nonprofit in Lawrence, New Jersey, offers an online master of business administration with an emphasis in global business. Most students can complete this degree in less than two years, and some may qualify for GMAT or GRE waivers. For added convenience, Rider University offers six program start dates.

   This program places heavy emphasis on the fundamentals of business analytics and the tools and technology innovations that can help in this endeavor. It also covers contemporary business models, like supply chain management and international growth. The global business concentration centers around the international economy and the public policies guiding it. This concentration comprises nine graduate semester hours, which cover topics like international trade theory and ethical dilemmas with other international businesses.

   Rider University offers financial aid, and 64% of students benefit from this aid. Class sizes at Rider cater to students who thrive in smaller classroom settings, as the student-to-faculty ratio stands at 12-to-1.

   Other Concentrations

   • Business Analytics
   • Finance
   • Global Business
4. Florida Institute of Technology

   Location

   Melbourne, FL

   Tuition

   $34139

   Graduation Rate

   60%

   View School Profile

   The Florida Institute of Technology -- a private, nonprofit university in Melbourne, Florida -- offers an online MBA focused on global supply chain management. This program takes a close look at how supply chain management functions on a global scale, from point of origin to point of purchase. Florida Institute carefully designed its program to equip graduates with the qualifications they need for industry certification exams.

   Through the global supply change management concentration, students gain knowledge about inventory management, sourcing and purchasing, performance metrics, and even product development. Degree graduates often pursue roles as logistics managers, supply chain analysts, transportation managers, and directors of purchasing.

   The Florida Institute of Technology provides financial aid based on both need and scholastic merit. Currently, 41% of students receive aid. Applicants must submit transcripts and an online application, but an application fee is not required.

   Other Concentrations

   • Accounting
   • Accounting and Finance
   • Cybersecurity
   • Finance
   • Healthcare Management
   • Global Supply Chain Management
   • Information Technology Management
   • International Business Management
   • Marketing
   • Project Management
   • Project Management in Information Technology
5. Murray State University

   Location

   Murray, KY

   Tuition

   $12270

   Graduation Rate

   55%

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   Murray State University, a public institution in Murray, Kentucky, offers an online MBA with a concentration in global communications. Only students serving in active military duty who are stationed in Germany or South Korea may complete the program fully online. This program earns accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, and all students who wish to apply must complete the GMAT exam.

   The MBA with a concentration in global communication offers the same affordable online tuition rate for Kentucky and out-of-state residents, and the school also provides financial aid opportunities. In fact, 48% of students currently receive financial aid.

   Online classes at Murray State University allow students ample one-on-one communication with their professors, with a typical student-to-faculty ratio of 15-to-1.

   Other Concentrations

   • Business Analytics
   • Economic Development
   • Finance
   • Global Communications
   • Health Administration
   • Human Resources Management
   • Marketing
6. University of New Hampshire

   Location

   Durham, NH

   Tuition

   $22694

   Graduation Rate

   77%

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   Located in Durham, the University of New Hampshire provides students with an online MBA with a concentration in global business. This program caters to busy working professionals, as it takes place on a part-time basis, allowing students to apply what they learn in their studies to their current job. Graduates typically earn jobs related to business data analytics, consulting, or marketing.

   The global business concentration positions students to make confident business decisions in a global market. This degree requires 16 courses, totaling 48 credits. Of these courses, nine offer foundational business knowledge, while seven relate directly to global business. Core classes cover topics like management skills, interpreting data, building customer value, and strategic planning.

   The University of New Hampshire provides students with financial aid. Currently, 68% percent of students benefit from university-provided aid. To earn admission to this public university, students must submit GMAT scores along with their application.

   Other Concentrations

   • Finance
   • Information Systems and Business Analytics
   • Marketing
   • Global Business
   • Growth and Innovation
   • Hospitality Management
7. Cornerstone University

   Location

   Grand Rapids, MI

   Tuition

   $20461

   Graduation Rate

   55%

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   Cornerstone University, a private university located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, offers an online MBA with a concentration in global business. The program requires nine concentration courses and 29 credits of core courses.

   Concentration courses cover topics related to international business practices, global economic environment, and global business leadership. Each course spans six weeks. Core courses provide foundational knowledge in research methods, accounting, managerial finance, economics, and innovation. These courses range from 4-7 weeks, and learners often complete their degrees in about 20 months.

   Currently, 74% of students benefit from financial aid at Cornerstone University, which makes this program's optional cultural trip component more feasible. The cultural trip takes place in alternating locations abroad, examining how different global politics affect U.S. business operations. The trip lasts anywhere from 5-10 days, and it requires daily journal reflections on fieldwork and a final paper.

   Other Concentrations

   • Finance
   • Global Business
   • Healthcare
   • Project Management
8. Wayne State University

   Location

   Detroit, MI

   Tuition

   $14366

   Graduation Rate

   47%

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   Wayne State University, a public institution based in Detroit, Michigan, offers an MBA with a concentration in global supply chain management, which students can complete online. More than 34,000 individuals have graduated from this flexible MBA program with either the global supply chain management concentration or one of the other 10 available concentrations.

   The school aims to help current students afford tuition and recent graduates gain successful jobs. Currently, 60% of Wayne State University students benefit from financial aid, and they can seek help from the school's career planning and placement office before graduation.

   To gain a better understanding of how global supply chain management works in action, students can participate in study abroad programs in Brazil, China, Italy, or Central Europe. Participants can visit the foreign operations of Detroit-area companies.

   Other Concentrations

   • Accounting Systems
   • Entrepreneurship and Innovation
   • Finance/Financial Accounting
   • Global Supply Chain Management
   • Human Resources
   • Information Systems Management
   • International Business
   • Management
   • Marketing
   • Sports and Entertainment Marketing
9. Bellevue University

   Location

   Bellevue, NE

   Tuition

   $9635

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   Bellevue University, located in the quaint city of Bellevue, Nebraska, offers an online MBA with a concentration in global economic threat environments. This program requires 36 credits, with courses covering business performance management, business analysis for decision-making, strategy innovation and integration, and marketing.

   Upon completing their degrees, students should have strong confidence in their decision-making skills and know how to communicate with global stakeholders. The global economic threat environment concentration provides knowledge related to sustainability, human rights in Asia, democracy development in Africa, and transnational crime.

   Bellevue doesn't require applicants to submit GMAT scores, but they must demonstrate a minimum 2.5 GPA in their most recent 60 credits of bachelor's coursework. Right now, 44% of students attending this university benefit from financial aid, and the school maintains a 31-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio.

   Other Concentrations

   • Accounting
   • Acquisition and Contract Management
   • Business Analytics
   • Cybersecurity
   • Entrepreneurship
   • Executive Coaching
   • Finance
   • Global Economic Threat Environment
   • Healthcare
   • Human Capital Management
   • Human Resources Management
   • Information Security Management
   • Interdisciplinary
   • International Management
   • Management
   • Management Information Systems
   • Marketing/Professional Communication
   • Project Management
   • Supply Chain Management
   • Tax
10. University of North Alabama

    Location

    Florence, AL

    Tuition

    $12121

    Graduation Rate

    46%

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    A public university located in Florence, Alabama, the University of North Alabama provides learners with an online MBA with a global business concentration. According to the University of North Alabama, the institution ranks No. 3 in the state, with the highest number of MBA graduates per year.

    The University of North Alabama aims to hire professors with real-world experience who can pass along their gained knowledge to students. Classes cover case studies, which examine how businesses have solved problems related to global economic threats. After studying these examples, students can apply their knowledge to solve current business problems.

    The university rests in a calm suburban setting, and classes typically boast a 21-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. Currently, 67% of students at the University of North Alabama benefit from financial aid, though the school prides itself on offering affordable programs, even without financial aid.

    Other Concentrations

    • Executive MBA
    • Accounting
    • Sales and New Business Development
    • Finance/Global Business
    • Healthcare Management
    • Project Management
    • Human Resources Management
11. City University of Seattle

    Location

    Seattle, WA

    Tuition

    $20567

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    Located in Washington, the City University of Seattle provides students with online MBA degrees with global management or global marketing concentrations. Depending on the selected concentration, learners must complete 48-54 credits. The MBA program core covers topics like managerial accounting, applied marketing, strategic financial management, business operations, and business strategy.

    The global marketing emphasis examines how global politics and culture affect consumer behavior. It also covers how to effectively communicate with individuals from different backgrounds. This concentration includes an internship, as does the global management concentration. The global management concentration emphasizes ethical global leadership and management.

    Right now, 50% of students who attend the City University of Seattle receive some sort of financial aid, and all applicants must submit GMAT scores along with their applications. This private school currently maintains a 12-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio.

    Other Concentrations

    • Public Accounting
    • Change Leadership
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Finance
    • Global Management
    • Global Marketing
    • Human Resources Management
    • Project Management
    • Supply Chain Management
    • Technology
12. University of Louisiana at Lafayette

    Location

    Lafayette, LA

    Tuition

    $11190

    Graduation Rate

    48%

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    The University of Louisiana at Lafayette, a public university, offers an online MBA with a concentration in global management. Students can complete this 33-credit hour program in as few as 15 months, and the program holds accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

    The global management emphasis takes place entirely online, providing learners with information on international economics and how effective management plays a large role in the success of global businesses. Topics covered include the relationship between domestic and foreign goods, an overview of how ethics differs between cultures, and how to maintain positive relationships with global partners on behalf of a business.

    Program applicants must fill out an application and submit a $25 application fee along with their transcripts and letters of recommendation. Currently, 31% of students at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette receive financial aid.

    Other Concentrations

    • Entrepreneurship
    • Finance
    • Global Management
    • Healthcare Administration
    • Hospitality Management
    • Human Resources Management
    • Project Management
    • Sales Leadership
13. Touro University Worldwide

    Location

    Los Alamitos, CA

    Tuition

    $19045

    Graduation Rate

    50%

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    Located in Los Alamitos, California, Touro University Worldwide offers an online MBA with a concentration in global management. The program comprises 36 semester credits, which include nine core courses and three concentration courses.

    The global management concentration covers important skills, which help graduates thrive in roles related to international management or global management consulting. The curriculum covers leadership theory, and class discussions center around how to apply these theories on a global scale.

    Touro University Worldwide offers various types of tuition assistance programs, like scholarships and student loans. The school's tuition assistance counselors help learners determine their financial aid eligibility. Students who prefer smaller class sizes fit in well at the school, which boasts a 13-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. The university doesn't charge an application fee or GMAT scores. However, applicants must have earned a bachelor's degree demonstrating a minimum 2.5 GPA.

    Other Concentrations

    • Accounting
    • Artificial Intelligence (AI) Management
    • Cybersecurity Management
    • Finance
    • Global Management
    • Health Administration Management
    • Human Resources Management
    • Marketing
    • Nonprofit Management
    • Physicians and Healthcare Executives
14. Golden Gate University

    Location

    San Francisco, CA

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    In San Francisco, Golden Gate University offers an online MBA with a concentration in global supply chain management. This program comprises 54 credits: Nine in foundation classes, 33 in core courses, 12 in concentration classes, and three in capstone credits. Students can expect to learn how to strategically analyze business problems and oversee various aspects of a business, including operations, finance, and marketing.

    The global supply chain management concentration teaches students about the various business processes involved in providing goods and services, including logistics and international trade operations, to customers. Classes cover theories and best practices for successful business operations in the global market. The program uses real-world applications to teach students to make key decisions on an organization's behalf.

    Currently, 67% of Golden Gate University students receive financial aid, and the student population stands at 2,735 learners. Applicants must submit an application form, plus GMAT or GRE scores.

    Other Concentrations

    • Accounting
    • Adaptive Leadership
    • Business Analytics
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Finance
    • Global Supply Chain Management
    • Human Resources Management
    • Information Technology Management
    • Marketing
    • Project Management
    • Public Administration
15. William Woods University

    Location

    Fulton, MO

    Tuition

    $20934

    Graduation Rate

    58%

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    William Woods University, a private institution in Fulton, Missouri, offers an online MBA with a concentration in global business. This program holds accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Program.

    This program requires 12 courses, worth three credits each. A few noteworthy classes include management and leadership, human resources and organizational behavior, economics for managers, managerial ethics, financial decisions, and integrated studies in business administration.

    This university doesn't raise tuition for learners who maintain continuous enrollment. Moreover, 61% of students attending William Woods University receive some form of financial aid. Program graduates earn an average annual salary of $65,000. Graduates often find jobs as business partners, entrepreneurs, and financial managers.

    To apply, individuals must submit a completed application and official transcripts demonstrating a minimum 2.5 GPA. Applicants must also acquire three hours of accounting and three hours of economics, and William Woods offers these courses online.

    Other Concentrations

    • Small Business
    • Global Business

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