The Six Fastest and Cheapest 12-Month MBA Online Degrees | 2024 Top Programs

An online MBA can open doors to great career prospects. In today’s fast-paced world, a 12-month MBA online program presents a unique opportunity. These programs offer efficiency and flexibility! Despite their accelerated nature, they host a broad curriculum tailored to meet the demands of a dynamic business landscape.

Now, an MBA within a condensed timeframe has its perks and its cons. But overall, they can push you into the marketplace at record speed. This article dives into one year MBA programs online, highlighting their benefits, challenges, and some of the best options for prospective students.

Article Navigation: Accelerated MBA Programs Online Overview | Pros and Cons of One-Year MBA Programs Online | The 2 Fastest MBA Programs Online | Top Six 12-Month MBA Online Programs Under $27K | Who Should Pursue a 12-Month MBA Online? | Transform Your Career With A One Year Online MBA Program

Accelerated MBA Programs Online Overview

Accelerated online MBA programs are still graduate-level business programs. They just combine the traditional MBA curriculum into a shorter time frame. As a student, you more than likely want the same quality education and coursework in a traditional MBA. One year MBA’s should provide this, but within a more intensive and quicker format.

Traditional MBA online vs. 1-year MBA online programs

Let’s look at the differences between a traditional MBA online and a 1-year MBA online program. While they both feature similar elements, they cater to different goals and preferences.

Traditional MBA online programs generally take two years to complete. This, of course, provides a more extended timeline to explore the core business curriculum. This longer timeframe makes managing academics with other commitments more flexible. You’ll also gain a more rounded view on aspects of business. Core classes in business pair with electives and areas of focus, and students can tailor their degree to their goals.

On the other hand, you’ve got to complete 1-year MBA online programs in their restrictive timeframe. This makes them less flexible, and more rigorous. Accelerated MBA online programs compress the curriculum into 12 months, and don’t skimp on the studies. However, there will be fewer chances for electives in a fast-track program. You will focus more heavily on core business topics. Those who pursue accelerated degrees are typically seeking entry to the marketplace faster, or to move up the ladder into a new position. A one-year program needs to condense the need-to-know while still being thorough enough to directly apply to the workplace.

A primary attraction of a one-year online MBA program is their time and cost savings. Completing the degree in a shorter duration can mean lower overall tuition fees. The MBA programs on our list cost below the national average of online MBA programs, which is $27,900.

Another key difference is networking opportunities, which you may get more of in a traditional program. Also, face time with peers and faculty in the virtual classroom is more prevalent in a traditional online degree. But it all depends on the program.

Related Article: The 287 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs

How a 12-Month MBA Online Works

A 12-month MBA online typically operates in a fully virtual format. You’ll complete your coursework remotely, often without any in-person requirements. However, specific programs may have occasional on-campus residencies, workshops, or immersive experiences throughout the program. That said, these are generally brief and, oftentimes, not mandatory for the program’s entirety.

Most 12-month MBA online programs do not include internships, as they run year-round and have a full-time course load. But there are some cases of programs offering optional internships. These programs may still include capstone projects or consulting assignments where students apply theory to real-world problems. Ultimately, the condensed timeline means a more concentrated workload built around core courses, assignments, readings, and projects.

To qualify for admission to a fast-track MBA online, applicants usually need a bachelor’s degree in a business-related field. Alternatively, they could complete some prerequisite courses in accounting, economics, statistics, and finance. Other academic requirements include:

• A competitive GPA
• Strong GMAT or GRE scores
• Relevant work experience
• Significant professional achievements, depending on the university

Some other factors to consider are the cost, accreditation, curriculum, and faculty. Not to mention the possible career outcomes. Remember, these programs can be more demanding and less flexible, so you want a program worth the sprint. It’s important to research the program details, options, and select the one that best suits your goals, interests, and needs.

Related Article: AACSB Online MBA No GMAT: Exhaustive List of Programs

Pros and Cons of One-Year MBA Programs Online

As with anything academic, there are pros and cons. Yes, the one-year MBA programs online will get you where you need to go faster. But there are limitations involved, too! Check out this section to see if an accelerated MBA is right for you.

Pros

First, cost! Accelerated programs might cost less than a traditional MBA. But this really depends on the program. The average cost of an online MBA is around $27,000. Our list of fast-track MBA’s online range from $12,000 to over $30,000.

Another perk of 1-year MBA programs is that they allow you to complete your degree in half the time. Which means you can return to the workforce, apply skills, and start earning money. Students can also save time by taking fewer courses and skipping summer internships usually required in a traditional MBA program.

In the same vein, a crucial benefit is accelerated career options. These programs help you advance your career faster and gain a competitive edge over other candidates. Students can also leverage their existing experience and expertise to explore leadership roles or change to a different industry. Furthermore, a one-year MBA program may offer specialized tracks that align with specific career goals.

Cons

Despite these advantages, you should also be aware of the possible downsides. A 12-month online MBA program compresses the same amount of coursework and learning outcomes as traditional MBA programs in half the time. Students have to deal with rigorous schedules and more intense academic commitments. The fast-paced and demanding nature of these programs also exposes students to stress and pressure.

These programs also tend to limit interactions with peers and instructors. As such, you may miss out on personal feedback, guidance, and support. But this more or less depends on you. If you need to reach out, you still can, but it might be tough to schedule.

Overall, a one-year MBA online program requires strict balance. It may not be for those with a full-time job. You’ve got to balance personal and professional commitment with a rigorous MBA schedule. The lack of flexibility may cause burnout, fatigue, etc.

The 2 Fastest MBA Programs Online

Below are the two fastest MBA programs you can get online. Note that the Endicott College program is a hybrid degree, and part of it must be completed on-campus.

1. Gardner-Webb University

   Degree: 10-month Master of Business Administration
   Accreditation: SACSCOC
   Tuition (in-state & out-of-state): $19,950

   Gardner-Webb University offers an online accelerated MBA created specifically to meet the needs of active professionals. The fully online format can be completed in as little as 10 months. This is an excellent, quick route to develop as a leader in your field.

   The program takes a different route from similar MBA programs. You take two courses every eight weeks, making it one of the fastest MBA programs available today. Despite the limited timeframe, all courses are of the highest quality. They provide students with a working knowledge of business and management skills.

   Students gain effective skills in innovative problem-solving and decision-making. The program is host to a diverse set of professionals with similar interests and varied work experience. This makes it particularly helpful for those seeking interdisciplinary career advancement. Some of the most common careers to come out of this 10-month MBA program include:

   – Small business owners
   – Human resource directors
   – Healthcare administrators
   – Product coordinators
   – Software analysts
   – Regional marketing specialists
   – Sales managers

   Gardner-Webb University’s accelerated MBA programs also feature course projects, simulations, and networking. The program costs about $19,950 for in-state and out-of-state students.

   Find Out More:
   Gardner-Webb University

    

2. Endicott College

   Degree: Fifth Year Master of Business Administration
   Accreditation: NECHE
   Tuition (in-state & out-of-state): $30,600

   Endicott College is a private institution offering a wide array of undergrad and graduate programs. It’s known for its emphasis on experiential learning. Overall, it provides practical studies, cooperative education experiences, and a strong focus on career readiness.

   Regarding career readiness, Endicott offers an accelerated MBA program online. The Fifth Year Master of Business Administration program is a nine-month, full-time intensive MBA designed for those with a business bachelor’s degree. This program requires 36 credits from 12 courses, including eight core courses and four electives.

   This degree comes in a hybrid structure. It mainly takes place on-campus during the fall and spring semesters, and the online session is in the winter. Through this format, students can gain intensive skills leading to careers such as:

   – Construction management
   – Entrepreneur
   – Event management
   – Finance
   – Marketing
   – Project management
   – Real estate

   Through this program, students improve their resume through skill-based programming and action-based learning. The curriculum also comprises self-directed study options and an internship opportunity. Tuition for this program is about $30,600 in-state and out-of-state.

   Find Out More:
   Endicott College

    

Top Six 12-Month MBA Online Programs Under $27K

Now let’s move on to the 12-month MBA online programs! The schools on this list cost less than the national average for a traditional MBA program, under $27K. Each school offers distinct qualities, and we’re sure you’ll find the program that aligns with your career goals.

1. Florida Gulf Coast University

   Degree(s): Traditional MBA; MBA in Data Analytics; MBA in Management/Leadership
   Accreditation: SACSCOC
   Tuition (in-state & out-of-state): $12,321

   FGCU offers an excellent, accredited 12-month MBA online. It emphasizes the application of analytical, technical, and behavioral tools needed to work in executive, supervisory, and management positions.

   The online accelerated MBA program offers competencies and a personal growth plan to lead teams. Students also learn to collaborate, assess the impact of business decisions, and solve complex business problems.

   Aside from the general track, students can choose from two other areas of focus:

   – Data Analytics
   – Management/Leadership

   The data analytics concentration provides students with a broad-based business background. In addition, you’ll graduate with the leadership skills to meet business challenges. Students also learn the fundamentals of data management, data mining, BI methods, visualization tools, and more.

   On the other hand, the Management/Leadership track emphasizes meeting a diverse array of business challenges. You’ll expand your expertise in accounting, economics, and financial management. The curriculum also emphasizes data-driven decision-making and the global supply chain.

   All programs require 33 credit hours. It costs about $12,321 in tuition for in-state and out-of-state students.

   Find Out More:
   Traditional MBA
   MBA in Data Analytics
   MBA in Management/Leadership

    

2. Clayton State University

   Degree(s): Master of Business Administration in: Accounting; Digital Marketing; HR Leadership; International Business; General Business; Supply Chain Management
   Accreditation: SACSCOC
   Tuition (in-state & out-of-state): $13,933

   Clayton State University can push your career to the next level. Uniquely, this fast-track MBA program features small classes and personalized feedback! This provides the support and feedback often lacking in these types of programs.

   Clayton’s 12-month MBA online consists of eight-week sessions. It also features a wide variety of focus areas, making it one of the best 1 year MBA online programs. For example:

   – Accounting. Financial reporting, forensic accounting, government, nonprofit accounting, or a series of courses in taxation. Students learn the ethical issues and practices in the profession and qualify for the CPA, CMA, OR CIA exams.
   – Digital Marketing. This focus prepares students with the skills and knowledge to respond to customer expectations in the market. Students also develop creative solutions for engaging customers.
   – HR Leadership. Learn to think strategically in areas such as employee training, career development, performance management, and development. Identify and address industry challenges in creative, engaging, and innovative ways.
   – International Business. Prepare for leadership positions in an increasingly global business world. You’ll explore various dimensions of global industries.

   Other areas of focus include general business and supply chain management. Clayton’s one-year online MBA program is a rigorous 33-credit hour program and costs about $13,933 in tuition.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Business Administration

    

3. Western Governors University

   Degree(s): Traditional MBA; MBA in IT Management; MBA in Healthcare Management
   Accreditation: NWCCU
   Tuition (in-state & out-of-state): $18,120

   WGU is a non-profit, fully online university that offers competency-based education. Here, you’ll find accessible and affordable higher education for nontraditional students. WGU applies this focus to business administration with three online accelerated MBA programs.

   WGU’s accelerated general MBA track prepares students for business leadership. You’ll rise to the next level in your field. There are 11 business and management courses, and you’ll work with program mentors who help build a personalized degree plan.

   On the other hand, the MBA in healthcare management trains students specifically for executive leadership roles. Graduates learn about regulatory requirements, standards, and expectations, needed to influence decisions and navigate the future of healthcare.

   Finally, students can build their technology leadership career with an online MBA in information technology management. This program offers key learning in leadership, project management, IT management, strategic solutions, and financial management. All these components prepare students for any challenge they may face as IT managers.

   All options are 12 month online MBA programs. Students are in control of the schedule and timing. Finally, all these MBA program options cost about $18,120 in tuition.

   Find Out More:
   Traditional MBA
   MBA in IT Management
   MBA in Healthcare Management

    

4. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

   Degree: Accelerated Master of Business Administration
   Accreditation: HLC
   Tuition (in-state & out-of-state): $21,700

   Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers professional programs in education, business, health, arts, sciences, and other fields. The college is particularly well-regarded for its graduate programs in business administration.

   SMUM’s MBA programs emphasize a practical, hands-on approach to business education. They integrate real-world experiences and case studies to prepare students for leadership roles. This Catholic university’s commitment to business education includes ethical leadership, critical thinking, and innovation.

   The fast-track MBA programs online dives into real-world issues. It provides a valuable education that positions students for success. As an online degree, it is flexible, but the degree maintains a rigorous course.

   You can complete this course at your own pace in 12–20 months. There is also the option to add a 12 or 15-credit certificate and waive two courses to create a custom MBA experience for 36 credits. Whichever the case, SMUM’s accelerated MBA program can set you up for leadership roles in various industries.

   Some program requirements include an undergraduate degree, a minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale, a minimum of two years of work experience, and a job-related writing sample. The total tuition in-state and out-of-state for this accelerated MBA program is about $21,700.

   Find Out More:
   Accelerated Master of Business Administration

    

5. National American University

   Degree: Master of Business Administration (Accelerated)
   Accreditation: HLC
   Tuition (in-state & out-of-state): $25,825

   NAU offers affordable online graduate programs in business, healthcare, technology, and applied health fields. The university has campuses across the country, but also features an online division. One such option is an accelerated MBA program online.

   NAU’s accelerated online master of business administration empowers students to advance knowledge and skills in less time than a traditional program. You’ll gain the solid business foundation to advance your career at your convenience. Furthermore, it eliminates electives and a thesis. In this way, students can focus on meaningful assignments that are immediately relevant in the workplace.

   NAU implements multiple methods of instruction and open-source materials. For example, this program features scaffolding and high-impact assessments. One outcome includes a digital career portfolio of program assignments that highlight workplace skills, knowledge, and abilities.

   The program poises graduates to join management or executive teams. Professionals without a business background can also explore this program in switching to corporate positions. This makes it one of the best 12 month MBA programs available.

   NAU’s accelerated MBA program consists of 10 courses totaling 45 credit hours taken over four terms. It also costs about $25,825 in tuition for in-state and out-of-state students.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Business Administration (Accelerated)

    

6. Northern Illinois University

   Degree: One-Year MBA
   Accreditation: HLC
   Tuition (in-state & out-of-state): $26,901

   NIU’s College of Business offers business programs across undergrad, graduate, and doctorate levels. Typically, the college emphasizes experiential learning, internships, and real-world applications. These factors prepare students for the challenges of modern business environments.

   The 12-month MBA online program provides a quicker pathway to gain a valuable perspective on the business field. This program highlights leadership development and career growth through a personalized professional development plan.

   Over 12 months, students create an integrative mindset in addressing business problems and leading teams. There are five building blocks, with courses mapped out and co-curricular experiences aimed at enhancing your goals. These building blocks include:

   – Leadership and strategic thinking
   – Managing operations and technology
   – Understanding customers and people
   – Managing with a global perspective
   – Understanding and managing financial resources

   The core MBA courses combine business theory with practical knowledge. There are also case studies for hands-on learning directly applicable in the workplace. Earn your online MBA degree in one year at $26,901 in tuition for in-state and out-of-state students.

   Find Out More:
   One-Year MBA

    

Who Should Pursue a 12-Month MBA Online?

If you want a fast-track approach to a career, choose a 12-month MBA online program! They’re excellent options for ambitious professionals. Particularly those seeking managerial and leadership expertise. You’ll gain essential business skills, leadership insights, and industry knowledge and keep ahead of the competition. And the best part is that an MBA can cover an array of industry. This includes marketing, finance, management, logistics, and more.

According to the GMAC survey, the median annual base salary for MBA graduates in 2020 was $115,000, compared to $65,000 for bachelor’s degree holders. Earning an MBA degree quicker can also contribute to good ROI. The tuition might cost less than in a traditional MBA program.

The scheduling for these programs is less flexible than traditional MBA programs. However, the formats may still vary between synchronous, asynchronous, hybrid, or blended. Someone earning an accelerated MBA online might not enjoy juggling that and a full-time job, but the shorter timeframe means they’re done quicker with fewer disruptions. That said, consider the time crunch.

Ultimately, your 12-month MBA program depends on interest, availability, and financial resources.

Transform Your Career With A One Year Online MBA Program

If you are on the fast-track, ready to lead, accelerated MBA online programs are the way. As you’ve read, you’ve got options! Whether you’re looking at cost, format, or quality, there’s a best online program just for you. Make your move today, or check out more 12-month MBA online business degrees on GetEducated.com!