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Learn how to outflank competitors, implement strategies, and maximize profits while earning your MBA in strategy online.
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Employers rank strategy among the top three most important skills for business school graduates, according to the 2023 Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) Corporate Recruiters Survey. Plus, earning your MBA in strategic management online can help you take the next step in your career.
A strategy MBA emphasizes strategic planning and implementation. You’ll strengthen analytical, decision-making, and leadership skills. With an MBA in strategic management, you can pursue opportunities as a management consultant, operations manager, or financial manager.
Ready to dive into competitive analysis, corporate strategy, and leadership development? Explore our ranking of the best online strategy MBA programs.
Popular Online MBA Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Strategy and Strategic Management MBAs
We use trusted sources like
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
OnlineMBA.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Best Online MBAs in Strategy
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
One of the nation's first public colleges, Carolina enrolls 18,000 graduate learners. Some attend the UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School for its rigorous and customizable online MBA.
MBA With a Concentration in Strategy and Consulting
Carolina's online MBA delivers a well-rounded learning experience. Enrollees receive hands-on training and collaborate with peers. The program requires two immersives held on campus and around the globe. MBA core classes cover finance, accounting, and operations.
Students take required business strategy and business communication classes. They can tailor the rest of the concentration with electives. Elective classes include managing innovation, global supply chain management, and managerial decision-making. Learners can choose training in a niche such as the design and delivery of healthcare systems. Graduates may work as consultants or corporate strategists.
Carolina's Affordability
Students pay a flat tuition regardless of where they live. UNC Kenan-Flagler participates in the Forté Fellowship Program, which financially supports qualified women pursuing an MBA. Learners can also seek scholarships, student loans, and employer tuition assistance.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Public
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges; Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Tuition: $125,589 total
Required Credits: 62
Program Length: 18-36 months
Delivery Format: Hybrid (online and on campus)
Admissions
Process: Applicants need a bachelor's degree from an accredited college and two years of professional experience
GPA: N/A
Standardized Tests: GMAT or GRE
Cost: $150
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,019
Out-of-state
$34,198
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,552
Out-of-state
$28,278
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
23%
Students Enrolled
29,877
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
12%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online MBAs in Strategy
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
Founded in 1867, Illinois is one of the nation's top-ranked public colleges. The school enrolls about 51,000 students. Illinois offers 250 undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.
iMBA With a Focus in Entrepreneurship and Strategic Innovation
Gies College of Business offers a customizable and online iMBA with a focus in entrepreneurship and strategic innovation. Students take live online classes divided into four core knowledge areas. Two areas include strategic leadership and financial management.
Enrollees learn how to develop, evaluate, and pitch business ideas. Students explore various business models. They learn how to generate funding and build a team for the enterprise. Degree-seekers show their knowledge through three capstone projects.
Enrollees can take up to five years to complete the iMBA. Each year, iMBA students attend the iConverge campus retreat to network with faculty and peers.
Illinois' Affordability
Gies offers some need-based scholarships that cover 70% of the iMBA's tuition. Gies also participates in the Forté Fellowship Program, which provides scholarships to qualified women pursuing an MBA.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Public
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission; Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Tuition: $307 per credit
Required Credits: 72
Program Length: 2-5 years
Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Admissions
Process: Applicants need a bachelor's degree and at least three years of professional work experience
GPA: 3.0 (recommended)
Standardized Tests: N/A
Cost: N/A
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,188
Out-of-state
$33,127
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,997
Out-of-state
$28,404
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
51,605
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online MBAs in Strategy
University of the Cumberlands
Williamsburg, KY
4 years
Online + Campus
Kentucky-based UC is one of the state's largest private colleges. The school emphasizes experiential learning, research, and affordability. Most of the school's 19,000 enrollees classify as graduate students.
MBA in Strategic Management
UC's online MBA program provides a flexible curriculum for working students. Enrollees build managerial skills for career advancement in many fields. Students learn core competencies such as managerial accounting, finance, and management. Degree-seekers explore sustainable business practices. They learn how to effectively use business analytics within an organization.
Students can use elective credits to pursue specialized training in various aspects of strategic management. They learn how to drive competitiveness and execute mergers and acquisitions. Degree-seekers also learn how to manage in a global environment.
All students culminate the program with a paper or project that highlights their expertise.
UC's Affordability
Active military personnel and veterans receive a tuition discount.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges; International Accreditation Council for Business Education
Tuition: $315 per credit standard rate; $275 per credit for active military/veterans
Required Credits: 37
Program Length: 2 years
Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Admissions
Process: Applicants need a bachelor's degree from an accredited college and must submit all school transcripts
GPA: 2.5
Standardized Tests: N/A
Cost: $30
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,875
Out-of-state
$9,875
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,670
Out-of-state
$5,670
Retention Rate
69%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
16,966
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
91%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online MBAs in Strategy
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
Virginia-based Liberty runs 15 colleges and schools. The Christian college offers 450 online programs and serves about 100,000 students.
MBA in Strategic Management
Liberty's online MBA program features 20 specializations. The 45-credit MBA in strategic management provides training in functional areas across the enterprise. Enrollees study accounting, marketing, and finance.
The strategic management specialization develops managers who can ethically lead. Students learn how to implement effective workforce planning and employment strategies. They explore leadership and management theories and best practices.
Students can choose more than one specialization. Online learners can network with business leaders from across the nation.
Liberty's Affordability
Liberty has not increased tuition since 2015. Students pay the same tuition regardless of residency. They can save money by transferring up to half of the MBA's credits from another program.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $565 per credit for full-time students; $615 per credit for part-time students
Required Credits: 45
Program Length: 2 years
Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Admissions
Process: Applicants need a bachelor's degree and must complete prerequisite business courses
GPA: 3.0
Standardized Tests: N/A
Cost: $50
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,417
Out-of-state
$15,417
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,980
Out-of-state
$7,980
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
85,586
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Online MBAs in Strategy
The University of Texas at Dallas
Richardson, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Home to 29,000 students, UT Dallas offers 140 undergraduate and graduate programs. The school features top-ranked programs such as STEM and management.
Professional MBA With a Concentration in Strategic Management
The Naveen Jindal School of Management offers the professional MBA in strategic management. Students complete 53 semester credits entirely online. They can earn the MBA in 21-72 months. Learners develop advanced skills in accounting, business economics, and operations management.
The concentration allows students to choose their training. Enrollees can take classes such as strategic management and strategy implementation. A management and organizational consulting class includes coursework, workshops, and hands-on exercises.
Enrollees can also pursue hands-on opportunities such as an executive study trip, a private equity project, or a field project.
UT Dallas' Affordability
MBA students can lock in UT Dallas' guaranteed tuition for four years. Students may also qualify for merit-based scholarships.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Public
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges; Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Process: Applicants need a bachelor's degree and prerequisite classes; prospective enrollees submit school transcripts and test scores
GPA: N/A
Standardized Tests: GMAT/GRE scores with waivers available
Cost: $50
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,442
Out-of-state
$38,168
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,874
Out-of-state
$27,796
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
29,543
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
19%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
How We Choose Programs
At OnlineMBA.com, we rely on reputable sources to rank the best MBA programs. We use trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to find standout programs. We consider four metrics: affordability, reputation, academics, and program availability.
Earning an MBA can open new career doors. Many employers prefer to hire candidates with a master’s degree for management-level roles. And specializing in strategic management leads to diverse career paths in consulting, management, and leadership.
Earning Potential
An MBA in strategy can increase your earning potential more than other master’s degrees. In the GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey, employers reported that MBA grads earned an average starting of $125,000, compared with $85,000 for a master’s in management or a master’s in data analytics.
High Demand
Across all industries, MBA graduates will likely see stronger demand than other professionals with a master’s degree. As GMAC reports, 90% of employers plan to hire more MBAs, compared with 79% for a master’s in management.
Jobs for MBAs in Strategy Graduates
With an MBA in strategic management, you’ll qualify for many high-paying roles with advancement opportunities. Across sectors, employers look for strategic leaders who can innovate and implement effective plans. Here are some common career paths for professionals who earn their MBAs in strategy online.
Management Analyst
Management analysts and consultants evaluate organizations to identify areas for improvement. They recommend strategies to boost revenue and reduce expenses. Demand for consulting professionals continues to grow, particularly in tech.
Financial managers oversee an organization’s financial strategies and health. They implement investment strategies while managing financial analysts and other staff. Specialties such as risk management report particularly strong growth.
Operations managers oversee daily operations, create policies for growth, and manage projects. They play an important role in diverse sectors, where their responsibilities often overlap with chief executive officer duties. Operations managers are projected to see job growth over the next decade.
How should organizations implement their strategic plans, evaluate their results, and seize a competitive advantage? During an MBA in strategy, you’ll explore these exciting areas while strengthening analytical, leadership, and management skills.
Earning your MBA in strategy online typically takes 1-2 years, depending on the program and your enrollment status. During that time, you’ll take core business classes and advanced strategy courses. You’ll also prepare for careers at the management and executive levels, including consulting roles.
The top accredited business schools offer several different strategy-focused MBA programs. They may offer concentrations in strategic management, corporate strategy, strategic leadership, or strategy and consulting. While these are all strategy concentrations, the specific focus of the program can vary depending on the business school.
Degree and Format Options
MBA programs offer several format options. By comparing programs, you can find one that best fits your schedule and needs.
Online vs. in-person vs. hybrid: In a fully online MBA, you’ll take all of your classes online, while an in-person program requires on-campus courses. A hybrid model blends the two delivery options.
Asynchronous vs. synchronous: Do you want live class sessions where you debate strategy with classmates? Or recorded lectures you can absorb on your own time? This matters especially if you’re working while in business school.
Accelerated vs. traditional: You can earn your MBA in strategy online in as little as 12-18 months. However, an accelerated format requires intensive coursework. Alternatively, you can consider a traditional two-year format or enroll part time.
Admissions Process
It’s no secret that MBA admissions can be competitive. That’s one reason it’s a good idea to apply to multiple programs.
During the admissions process, you’ll typically submit the following materials:
An online application plus an application fee
Official transcripts showing that you have a bachelor's and meet the minimum GPA requirements
Standardized test scores; most often from the GMAT or GRE
Letters of recommendation
A statement of purpose
A professional resume or CV
Programs may also require applicants to have prerequisite undergraduate business courses or professional experience. Review the admission requirements before starting your application.
Online MBA in Strategy Courses
You’ll take core business classes and strategy concentration classes during your online MBA. Many programs incorporate a capstone or final project at the end of your degree. While each business school has a slightly different curriculum, here are five common courses you’ll see in online strategy MBA programs.
Business Strategy
Learn how to analyze corporate strategy, including strategy theories and the application of different strategies in practice. The course emphasizes leadership and behavioral concepts. Through case studies and analytical exercises, you’ll strengthen strategic management skills.
Strategic Competitive Analysis
In order to gain a competitive advantage, business leaders need to know how to conduct a strategic competitive analysis. In this course, MBA students learn how to assess a competitor’s position and understand their strategies. Learners then link the analysis to their own strategic planning.
Financial Strategy
By analyzing the financial strategies of corporations, MBA students learn how to make strategic decisions in the finance sector. The course covers topics such as capital structure and financial risk management. In addition to theoretical analysis, students will apply strategic approaches to real-world examples.
Organizational Management
Explore organizational design and implementation to identify the components of successful organizations. The course incorporates change management, workforce planning, and organizational planning to strengthen the skills necessary for decision-making roles.
Technology Strategy
In electives focused on tech strategy, MBA students learn how to foster innovation and gain a competitive advantage in the fast-paced tech sector. Topics such as research and development, technology investment, and innovation management prepare graduates for strategic roles in tech.
How Much Do Strategic Management MBAs Cost?
Attending a top-ranked MBA program can cost over $100,000 per year. Online MBA tuition rates vary widely, with some as cheap as a few hundred dollars per credit and others costing over $1,000 per credit.
Because costs vary, it’s important to understand what factors influence cost. Public universities typically charge the lowest tuition rates, but attending business school online can help you compare costs without having to relocate for your degree. In addition to tuition, you’ll need to factor in textbooks, fees, and living expenses.
Fortunately, you’ll qualify for several forms of financial aid by attending an accredited university. You can submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to qualify for federal student aid, including student loans. You may also qualify for MBA scholarships through your university or private organizations.
Should You Get an Online Strategy MBA or a General MBA?
Is it better to earn your MBA in strategy online or choose a general MBA degree? While both options have their pros and cons, you’ll need to consider your interests and career goals to decide which path is right for you.
With both options, you’ll likely take the same core business classes that typically make up the first year of a two-year MBA curriculum. A strategy MBA offers focused coursework beyond the core classes that emphasize strategic decision-making and analysis. With a general MBA, you’ll take courses from many business fields, often with the option to choose electives to focus your degree.
If you’re interested in strategic management and strategy-related consulting roles, a strategy MBA can highlight your strengths in those areas.
Online MBAs in Strategic Management vs. General MBAs
Key Factor
Strategy MBA
General MBA
Focus
Strategic leadership and decision-making
Business core
Program Length
1-2 years
1-2 years
Credit Requirement
36-60 credits
30-54 credits
Admissions Requirements
2.5-3.0 GPA; GMAT scores; resume; statement of purpose; recommendation letters
2.5-3.0 GPA; GMAT scores; resume; statement of purpose; recommendation letters
Common Courses
Strategic management; workforce planning; change management; leadership development
Marketing management; organizational behavior; managerial finance; business analytics
Common Roles After Graduation
Management analyst; financial manager; management consultant; general or operations manager
How to Select the Right Online MBA in Strategy Program
The right MBA program will fit your career goals, schedule, and budget. Several other factors can help you choose a quality program, including:
Competitiveness: How many applicants does the MBA program admit compared to the number of applications? If you’re applying to competitive programs, consider also applying to some less selective schools to give yourself options.
Financial aid: MBA programs can be expensive. Comparing your financial aid offers from schools can help you narrow your options.
Reputation: Program reputation can matter when you’re networking or on the job market. Research career services and placement rates for different programs to get an idea of their graduate outcomes.
Location: You can earn your MBA in strategy online from a university across the country, or you can choose a program closer to home. If you want to engage with the on-campus community, location can matter.
Internship opportunities: An internship can help you transition from your MBA program into the workforce. You’ll also gain valuable professional experience. Research internship opportunities and partnerships with major employers when choosing a program.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting a Strategy MBA Online
What is a strategy MBA?
A strategy MBA emphasizes strategic management, preparing graduates for careers as analysts, managers, and consultants. Common courses include strategic competitive analysis, workforce planning, change management, and leadership development.
Is it OK to get a strategy MBA online?
Yes, accredited online MBA programs meet the same academic standards as on-campus programs. Many of the top business schools offer online and in-person programs that use the same curriculum, faculty, and teaching materials.
What can you do with an online MBA in strategic management?
With an online MBA in strategic management, you can pursue a career as a management analyst, financial manager, or operations manager. The degree also leads to opportunities in management consulting.
What's the difference between a strategy MBA and a certification?
A strategy MBA is a degree that typically takes 1-2 years. In contrast, a professional certification demonstrates your experience and knowledge within a field. Rather than an educational program, a certification typically requires passing an examination.
Is an online MBA in strategy worth it?
Earning your MBA in strategy online can pay off. In the 2023 GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey, employers reported a starting salary of $125,000 for MBA graduates. MBA-holders are also in high demand by recruiters.
The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by OnlineMBA.com. Page last reviewed June 24, 2024.
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