An online MBA in entrepreneurship can be what aspiring entrepreneurs need to take their innovation, creativity, and vision to the next level. These programs prepare graduates for exciting roles in various industries, such as startup founder, business consultant, and corporate innovation manager. It typically takes two to three years to earn this degree, and many online programs offer flexible part-time options for learners who need to balance their education with professional and personal responsibilities.
While costs vary across institutions, the average annual tuition for a graduate degree program is $12,596 at public universities and $28,017 at private schools. With the help of financial aid, it’s possible to earn your degree without incurring substantial debt.
How to Choose an Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Program
Choose your area of study
Many programs will allow you to select a concentration and focus your studies on a particular niche in this field, such as innovation management, social entrepreneurship, technology entrepreneurship, or venture capital. Before committing to a specific program, consider your career goals, interests, and strengths.
For example, students interested in developing new products or services may benefit from specializing in innovation management, while those passionate about creating a cultural impact can opt for social entrepreneurship. Technology entrepreneurship suits students interested in the intersection of business and technology, while a venture capital specialization is ideal for those aspiring to work in investment and funding for startups.
Research schools and programs
Once you have chosen your area of study, you’ll want to gather information about online schools that support your interests. Keep an eye out for schools offering faculty who specialize in your chosen field.
You should only apply to institutions that have been approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.
Ideally, your MBA in entrepreneurship program will also be accredited by a respected industry group like the Association for the Advancement of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). These programmatic accrediting organizations have particularly high standards for business education.
To learn more about any schools that you’re interested in, you can visit the school’s website, contact an admissions counselor, follow the school on social media, or attend an in-person or virtual open house.
Prepare for tests and applications
Now that you have identified the programs aligned with your interests and career goals, you can prepare for applications and standardized tests by following a few critical steps.
You should create a study plan and leverage practice materials and resources for standardized tests like the GMAT or GRE. Many students benefit from enrolling in a test preparation course, as these courses teach specific test-taking strategies and help familiarize students with each test’s format.
Application requirements vary by school, though you will likely need to submit undergraduate transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a well-crafted personal statement tailored to each program. Always contact an admissions counselor to ensure you have the most accurate information regarding requirements and deadlines.
Select your program
Before making your final decision, review your needs and goals again. Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Do you want your program to be as online as possible, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a fair amount of in-person requirements? Some programs offer asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace, while others only offer synchronous courses, which involve remotely attending lectures and completing assignments at the same time as other students — which of these two online learning formats do you prefer? Your school should accommodate your scheduling needs and learning preferences.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Speak to financial aid counselors at the schools you’re interested in for the most accurate and specific information about program cost. To fund your education, you will first want to research scholarship and grant opportunities your institution offers explicitly targeted at entrepreneurship and business students. Private organizations and government agencies also provide scholarships and grants, so explore those funding opportunities.
Next, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which will determine your eligibility for federal financial aid programs, including loans and work-study opportunities.
If you’re currently employed, explore your employer’s tuition reimbursement programs. These programs incentivize employees to seek higher education and may cover a portion of their tuition if they plan to remain in the same field.
Best 50 Accredited Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Programs
Discover More Options
How We Rank Schools
For this list, one of our main criteria was that programs be delivered fully or primarily online. Some of these programs can be completed through a combination of online and on-campus classes.
We looked for programs offered at regionally accredited institutions to ensure they meet the highest standards of quality for postsecondary education. Many of these options also have programmatic accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), or the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
We evaluated each program based on reputation, faculty, flexibility, cost, and outcomes. Then, we calculated an Intelligent Score for each program on a scale of 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out our ranking methodology.
What Can You Expect from an Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Program?
During an online MBA in entrepreneurship program, you can expect to learn about strategic planning, financial management, marketing, innovation, leadership, and venture capital — all necessary skills for a successful career in this field. While curricula can vary, most programs equip students with the knowledge to identify and evaluate business opportunities, develop effective business plans, and navigate the challenges of starting and growing a new venture.
Due to the demand for fully online learning, most MBA programs in entrepreneurship offer a virtual education designed to be completed independently and at your own pace. However, some programs may offer optional on-campus events or networking opportunities that allow you to engage with faculty and fellow students.
It typically takes two to three years of part-time study to complete all of the degree requirements. Students who can devote more time to their studies can graduate in as little as 18 months.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online MBA in entrepreneurship program
- Entrepreneurial Finance: Most reputable entrepreneurship programs include a finance course, although the title can vary depending on the institution. These classes focus on the financial aspects of entrepreneurship, teaching students to evaluate and secure funding for new ventures. They will learn about financial analysis, valuation techniques, and various funding sources like angel investors, venture capitalists, and crowdfunding platforms.
- Strategic Entrepreneurship: Also called “Strategic Management,” this class focuses on the strategic aspects of entrepreneurship, helping students understand how entrepreneurial thinking can drive innovation and competitive advantage with established organizations. They will explore corporate entrepreneurship, strategic decision-making, industry disruption, and managing growth in entrepreneurial contexts.
- Quality Management: Often included in curricula as a core requirement, this class teaches students about the principles and practices for ensuring and improving the quality of products or services in a business context. Students study Six Sigma and Total Quality Management methodologies and learn to apply them to identify, analyze, and address quality-related issues.
- Marketing for Entrepreneurs: In this course, students will learn how to create effective marketing strategies tailored to the needs of startups and small businesses. They will study market research, customer segmentation, branding, digital marketing, and other essential marketing concepts to help them effectively promote and differentiate their ventures in competitive markets.
What Can You Do With an Online MBA in Entrepreneurship?
Career outlook
It may seem that the primary career path for someone with an MBA in entrepreneurship would be to start a business in an area of interest. Whether you hope to found a thriving accountancy firm, for example, or wish to purchase and grow an existing retail operation, your MBA will give you the skills to take a leadership role in creating or shaping a business as you wish.
Entrepreneurs exist in almost every area of business and industry, from healthcare to manufacturing, with some working in nonprofit or educational venues. Beyond serving as the founder of your own business, there are other career paths open to you with an online MBA in entrepreneurship. Consider the following examples:
- Top executive — Coordinate the work of an organization by establishing goals, overseeing activities, and appointing department heads and managers.
- Median annual salary: $103,840
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 3%
- New job openings projected: 311,600 annually
- Management analyst — Advise organizations on how to increase revenue, reduce expenses, and improve efficiency.
- Median annual salary: $99,410
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 10%
- New job openings projected: 92,900 annually
- Project management specialist — Oversee all aspects of a project, including budgeting, staffing, and progress monitoring.
- Median annual salary: $98,580
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 6%
- New job openings projected: 68,100 annually
Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online MBA in entrepreneurship degree program?
To apply for an online MBA in entrepreneurship degree program, you will need to visit the website of the institution offering the program. There, you will find an online application form where you can submit your personal and educational information.
Admissions requirements may vary, but they generally include a bachelor’s degree, transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume demonstrating relevant work experience, and a statement of purpose highlighting your interest in entrepreneurship and career goals.
Before applying, it’s crucial to talk to an admissions counselor. They can give you a clear understanding of the program’s requirements, prerequisites, and any specific documentation that can strengthen your application.
How much does an online MBA in entrepreneurship degree cost?
The average annual tuition for a graduate degree program is $20,513. You should also keep in mind that there will be additional expenses associated with your program, such as textbooks, software, technology requirements, and potential travel expenses for optional in-person events or networking opportunities.
How long does it take to earn an online MBA in entrepreneurship degree?
On average, completing an online MBA in entrepreneurship program takes around two to three years of part-time study. Full-time enrollment may allow students to earn their degree sooner, usually within one to two years.
It’s also important to consider the program’s required credits, as these can vary depending on the institution and significantly impact completion time. In addition, online programs often offer more flexibility in course scheduling and allow students to balance their studies with other commitments, potentially resulting in a shorter or longer program duration than on-campus programs.
Is an online MBA in entrepreneurship worth it?
Earning an MBA in entrepreneurship can be worth it if you are interested in starting your own business — or working with those doing so. Your MBA will give you a solid grounding in the essential elements of business, from finance to sales, which all play a role in business ownership. Your program should also help you build a network of like-minded individuals who can assist, mentor, and support your efforts.
With an MBA, you stand to earn a desirable salary. Top executives, for example, make a median salary of $103,840 annually, with the possibility of much higher compensation as the business grows and expands.
Also, if you are an adult learner with other personal or professional commitments, earning your degree online offers the flexibility that may allow you to continue to work or care for family members while earning your degree.