Best Online Business Schools in Kansas (MBA)

Considering an online MBA? Get information on online master of business administration programs in Kansas and careers for MBAs in Kansas’s top industries.

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Downtown Topeka, Kansas in the daytime Credit: Davel5957 / E+ / Getty Images

Kansas offers a variety of industries for MBA-holders. With top employers in aircraft engineering, universities, sports centers, and food production, graduates of MBA programs in Kansas can take advantage of diverse, lucrative career paths. Kansas' top-paying careers include opportunities for MBA-holders to become chief executives, sales managers, marketing managers, and financial managers -- all of which earn more than twice the state's median household income of $55,500.

This page can help prospective students search for online MBA programs in Kansas, providing a list of accredited schools. Readers can also learn more about what accreditation means for MBA programs, careers for MBA graduates in Kansas (including job descriptions and occupational data), and information on how to align MBA concentrations with key industries in their desired locations.

Best Online MBA Programs in Kansas

The list below offers a sampling of the best accredited online MBA programs in Kansas. An important consideration for any academic program, accreditation validates that a school or program meets certain academic standards set forth by the accrediting body. Regional accreditation is generally considered the highest level of accreditation, though MBA students may also wish to enroll in schools accredited by programmatic accrediting organizations like the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

To learn more about MBA accreditation, visit this page.

  • Baker University
    Location

    Baldwin City, KS

    Tuition

    $26130

    Founded in 1858, Baker University enrolls over 3,000 students annually. Many of these learners earn their degree remotely through asynchronous classes facilitated by Moodle. Among these online offerings is Baker’s online master of business administration. This program teaches students about leadership and collaborative methods, enabling them to pursue work as financial consultants, operations managers, and program directors. Students generally earn their degree in 18-20 months, although individuals with transfer credits can complete this Kansas online MBA in as few as 12 months.

    This 33-credit degree plan consists of classes such as legal environment of business, managerial accounting applications, and strategic planning for competitive organizations. Students can choose a generalist track or opt for a concentration in finance, healthcare administration, human resources, or leadership and organizational change. Baker operates distance learning year-round, with classes starting every seven weeks. The school does not specify minimum GPA or standardized test score requirements for applicants. All distance students pay the same tuition, regardless of where they reside.

    Concentrations

  • Benedictine College
    Location

    Atchison, KS

    Tuition

    $28050

    Based in Atchison, Benedictine College provides an online master of business administration to nontraditional students. Unlike many other online MBA programs in Kansas, Benedictine facilitates classes through live video conferencing. This interactive method enables distance learners to engage in classroom discussions and ask questions in real time. The college accepts applications on a rolling basis. Prospective students must submit GMAT scores unless they possess a minimum GPA of 3.25 or at least a 480 on the GRE.

    The curriculum emphasizes innovation and values-based leadership. Degree candidates take 33 credits, including courses in managerial economics, marketing strategy, and business law and ethical decision-making. Participants also undertake a business creation practicum and a capstone experience in either strategic management or global strategies and international ventures. All graduate students at Benedictine can apply for financial aid, and transfer candidates may qualify for special scholarships.

  • Emporia State University
    Location

    Emporia, KS

    Tuition

    $12348

    Emporia State University is the seventh largest university in Kansas, enrolling over 5,700 students each year. Many learners at ESU pursue distance education through programs such as the school’s online master of business administration. This accelerated track enables students to earn their degree in 12 months by taking asynchronous, seven-week-long classes powered by Canvas. To apply, candidates must possess a minimum 2.65 GPA. Prospective students also need to submit GMAT scores unless they have at least three years of relevant work experience, a master's degree, or an undergraduate GPA of 3.5 or higher.

    Totaling 36 credits, the degree plan includes classes in marketing management, information systems, and business policy. Students may pursue a concentration in accounting, marketing, or information systems. Graduates may go on to work as business analysts, chief information officers, or management consultants. This Kansas online MBA program holds programmatic accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

  • Fort Hays State University
    Location

    Hays, KS

    Tuition

    $12527

    Fort Hays State University enrolls more than 4,500 distance learners every year in programs such as the online master of business administration. This 34-credit track consists of core classes in advanced corporate finance, business research, and organizational behavior in a global context. Degree candidates also take advanced coursework that focuses on one of 13 concentrations. Specialization options include digital marketing, healthcare management, international business, and information assurance.

    Depending on their concentration, students may complete all coursework remotely through Blackboard. Participants generally earn their master's degree in 18 months, but can take up to three years to graduate. To apply, candidates must submit GMAT or GRE scores. Students who do not hold an undergraduate business degree must take 12 additional credits of foundational courses. FHSU offers institutional scholarships to students interested in earning this Kansas MBA online.

    Concentrations

  • Friends University
    Location

    Wichita, KS

    Tuition

    $21111

    Located in Wichita, Friends University operates a global master of business administration program for distance learners. This program emphasizes international business acumen in a domestic context. Students develop the cross-cultural communication, negotiation, and leadership skills needed to occupy management positions in U.S. companies. Degree candidates take asynchronous classes through Moodle, and can earn their Kansas online MBA in under two years.

    Ranging from 31-37 credits, the curriculum consists of six core classes and four concentration courses. Concentration options include accounting, change management, cybersecurity, finance, healthcare leadership, human resources, and supply chain management and logistics. The program culminates with a business residency abroad. During this capstone experience, students meet with foreign executives and participate in roundtable discussions about the complex interconnectedness of international business practices.

    The university reserves some types of financial aid, such as the Gerald E. Litherland scholarship, for distance learners. Students also benefit from personalized academic advising and career services. Additionally, Friends was the first school to establish a campus chapter of the National Association of Women MBAs.

    Concentrations

  • Grantham University
    Location

    Lenexa, KS

    Tuition

    $12025

    Grantham University enrolls approximately 17,500 students every year and offers 15 remote graduate degrees. The 37-credit online master of business administration program emphasizes financial data aptitude and distributed collaboration techniques. Grantham’s MBA track prepares students for careers with government agencies, large-scale manufacturers, and multinational corporations.

    Distance learners take asynchronous classes through Blackboard. The degree plan includes core classes in e-business, quantitative analysis, and strategies for change. Students can follow a general MBA track or specialize in either information management or project management. Regardless of their track, all participants complete an integrative capstone project.

    Most MBA students graduate in two years, although Grantham also offers an intensive one-year pathway. To apply to the one-year accelerated Kansas online MBA program, candidates must hold at least three years of relevant work experience or possess an undergraduate business degree earned with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Classes start every month and the university accepts applications on a rolling basis.

    Concentrations

  • Kansas State University
    Location

    Manhattan, KS

    Tuition

    $32500

    Established in 1863, Kansas State University was the first higher education institution in the state. Today, the university offers 73 graduate degrees, including an online professional master of business administration. Distance learners pursuing this MBA online take asynchronous courses delivered through Canvas.

    The 36-credit curriculum consists of courses like economic analysis, marketing research, and managing the triple bottom line. Degree candidates also complete an international business experience and capstone project. New students must attend a two-day regional orientation that includes professional development and team-building components. K-State allows students to transfer up to six credits of undergraduate business classes toward their MBA.

    Applicants should hold a minimum 3.0 GPA and 500 GMAT score. As part of their undergraduate education, students must have completed classes in calculus, statistics, and economics. Distance learners pay a fixed tuition rate, regardless of where they live. This online MBA program holds programmatic accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

    Concentrations

  • MidAmerica Nazarene University
    Location

    Olathe, KS

    Tuition

    $20520

    MidAmerica Nazarene University offers 23 distance education programs, including an online master of business administration. Structured as a cohort learning experience, this 36-credit MBA program trains students through collaborative classroom discussions and projects. Degree candidates can earn their master's entirely online through asynchronous classes powered by Moodle. Alternatively, they can pursue hybrid learning by mixing in weekly courses held on campus in Olathe.

    Courses go over technology for managers, applied quantitative methods, organizational development, and project management. As an elective, students can pursue a global business immersion experience. This interdisciplinary class combines online learning with an international trip to destinations like China, South Africa, or the United Arab Emirates.

    Applicants must possess a regionally accredited bachelor's degree earned with a minimum 3.0 GPA over the last 60 credits. However, MNU does not ask students to submit GRE or GMAT scores. All distance learners pay the same tuition rate. This Kansas online MBA degree holds accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

  • Ottawa University
    Location

    Ottawa, KS

    Tuition

    $22860

    A leader in distance education, Ottawa University has offered flexible classes to nontraditional students since 1974. Today, the university provides 15 remote graduate degrees, including an online master of business administration. Degree candidates can complete this program entirely online, taking asynchronous coursework through Blackboard. Participants can also take evening classes at one of the university's campuses in Wisconsin, Kansas, Arkansas, or Indiana.

    The 36-credit curriculum includes courses in strategic marketing, management accounting, and professional ethics. Students also pursue classes in one of six concentrations, including options in strategic innovation or population health and healthcare management. Learners round out their graduate training with a business policy capstone seminar, during which they create an in-depth case study discussing pertinent organizational issues.

    To apply, candidates need to hold a minimum 3.0 GPA. Application materials include a current resume, personal statement, and three recommendation letters. Ottawa does not require students to submit GMAT or GRE scores. This Kansas online MBA program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

    Concentrations

  • Southwestern College
    Location

    Winfield, KS

    Tuition

    $19860

    Southwestern College hosts 10 distance education programs for graduate students. These offerings include a 30-credit online master of business administration program, which promotes cross-functional leadership skills and organizational character development. Students cultivate skills through hands-on projects and simulation activities. SC operates online learning through Blackboard Learn. Distance learners take asynchronous, six-week courses and can earn their master's in as few as 12 months.

    The degree plan includes classes such as global economics, financial management, and marketing strategies. Students may pursue a generalist track or a finance specialization. All degree candidates also complete an MBA graduate project. This capstone requirement tasks students with preparing and presenting a portfolio.

    To apply, candidates submit two professional letters of recommendation, a one-page personal statement, and a resume. Unlike several other online MBA programs in Kansas, SC does not ask applicants to submit standardized test scores. The college does not charge out-of-state distance learners higher tuition rates, and military personnel receive substantial tuition discounts.

    Concentrations

Online MBA Programs for You

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Careers and Salaries for MBA Graduates in Kansas

After completing an online MBA in Kansas, graduates enjoy a variety of career opportunities. The state's top industries include advanced manufacturing, aerospace, alternative energy, animal health, biosciences, food processing, and logistics and distribution. Despite their differences, each of these industries relies on educated business professionals to expand and thrive.

Kansas' current economic forecast highlights a slight recession in 2020 and 2021, but workers can expect a rapid rebound. In 2019 alone, the state's production sector is projected to grow by 1.5%, creating 3,500 more jobs. With an online MBA, Kansas graduates can take advantage of the state's growing industries. Kansas' relatively low cost of living makes it easy for candidates to find fulfilling careers and affordable housing after graduation.

Nearly every business, corporation, and nonprofit organization hires talented MBA-holders, but the following three hire more Kansas workers than any other employers in the state.

CompanyLocationMain IndustryNumber of Employees
Spirit AeroSystemsWichitaManufacturing15,000
Sprint Corp.Overland ParkWireless Telecommunications12,500
Spirit AeroSystems HoldingsWichitaAircraft Manufacturers11,500

Source: Career One Stop

Like most companies, Sprint Corporation and Spirit AeroSystems require skilled professionals to drive sales and secure clients. Fort Riley is a U.S. Army installation, but military bases operate in similar ways to businesses. MBA programs provide candidates with versatile skill sets, qualifying graduates for positions in many different industries and settings.

Careers for MBA Grads in Kansas

Chief Executive Officer

Chief executive officers oversee company operations from the top of the organization. Focused on the big picture, they direct overall company policy and strategy, delegating more hands-on work to other managers. With MBA degrees, candidates can align their career goals to focus on leadership and business strategy. They also gain a solid understanding of the complex workings within large and small companies.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that 3,790 CEOs worked in Kansas as of May 2018, and they earned an annual mean wage of $172,100.

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Development Manager

Development managers focus on training the staff of their organizations. They may seek out training materials, create programs for new and veteran staff, and manage training teams, depending on their organization's size. Employers may prefer an MBA, which prepares development managers for the position's required leadership skills.

Kansas employed 220 training and development managers as of May 2018, according to the BLS, and they earned an annual mean wage of $106,680. Projections Central expects a 13% spike in demand in the state from 2016-2026.

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Marketing Manager

Collaborating with other departments within their organizations, marketing managers identify potential markets for their companies' products or services, determining needs and helping develop products to meet them. With MBAs, candidates can develop their understanding of the intricacies of market research, consumer behavior, and pricing strategy.

As of May 2018, Kansas employed 1,640 marketing managers, who earned an annual mean salary of $142,740, according to the BLS. Projections Central expects a 13.2% growth rate in the profession from 2016-2026.

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Financial Manager

Financial managers study their organizations' financial data and work to optimize profit through streamlined processes and well-placed investments. They supervise budget-relevant employees, ensure that their companies adhere to legal regulations, and report their findings and suggestions to higher-level executives. Employers often prefer candidates with MBAs, which provide a solid foundation of financial practices and budget strategies, plus a thorough understanding of the stock market.

Kansas employed 3,990 financial managers as of May 2018, and they earned an annual mean wage of $129,660, according to the BLS. Projections Central expects a spike in demand for financial managers in Kansas, anticipating a 20.1% growth from 2016-2026.

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Human Resources Manager

Human resources managers deal with personnel-related matters for their companies. Depending on their role and organization's size, they may participate in hiring processes, benefits administration, training, scheduling, or conflict resolution. Candidates seeking higher-level careers in human resources, particularly for larger organizations, may complete an online MBA program in human resources to enhance their leadership skills and prepare them to handle budgets and understand labor regulations.

Kansas employed 1,150 human resources managers as of May 2018, according to the BLS. These professionals earned an annual mean wage of $107,810. Projections Central expects demand for human resources managers to grow by 10.6% in Kansas from 2016-2026.

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MBA Concentrations for Kansas Students

For MBA students with a location target in mind, it is important to choose a concentration that aligns with the key industries in their prospective state of employment.

In Kansas, key industries include aerospace, alternative energy, and logistics and distribution. As such, students of MBA programs in Kansas might concentrate their degrees in technology, environmental management, or supply chain management.

In addition to considering concentrations that align with key industries, prospective MBA students in Kansas may also explore accelerated MBA programs, which offer a fast-paced and intensive curriculum to help students gain their degrees more quickly.

To learn more about available MBA concentrations and how they relate to key industries, visit our specialization hub.

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