Top Online MBA Programs in Pennsylvania

As a member of the thirteen original colonies of the United States, the state of Pennsylvania received its statehood on December 12, 1787 as the second state in the Union behind Delaware. Geographically, Pennsylvania consists of nearly 45,000 square miles of land and just over 1,200 square miles of water. "The land of Pennsylvania was granted to William Penn, son of Admiral William Penn, who had been given the charter by King Charles II in 1681 to pay a £16,000 debt the king owed the family. The land was named by the king in honor of the elder Penn – it meant ‘Penn's Woodlands.'"

In architecture, a keystone is a wedge-shaped rock or building material placed at the crown of an arch that stabilizes other archway pieces in place. Pennsylvania's being centrally located along the arch of the original thirteen states earned it the name of the Keystone State. While Harrisburg is the state's capital, Philadelphia is Pennsylvania's largest city and includes Independence Hall, the location of the signing if the Declaration of Independence on August 2, 1776. Famous people born in Pennsylvania include singer Taylor Swift, entertainer Tina Fey, and basketball player Kobe Bryant. With a population of over 12 million, Pennsylvania is ranked sixth as the most populated state in the United States.

With a ranking as #12 among four-year graduation rates, Pennsylvania delivers a host of the nation's best online Master's of Business Administration programs. The Master's of Business Administration continues to be the most respected degree for professionals seeking to develop leadership skills in business. While many of the top programs in Pennsylvania require students to have attained at least two years of professional experience, the curriculum offered is based in solid business theory with a relevance for business application. Professionals within MBA programs often begin applying the concepts covered in the classroom simultaneously in their work environments.

There is no more flexible and convenient MBA program than the one offered online. An online MBA combines the excellent curriculum offered by a seasoned staff of educators with the ability for a student to set a class schedule which works congruently with a work and personal schedule without the need for the students to relocate and attend classes on campus.

Understanding there are many factors to consider while researching online MBA programs, we have compiled the top twenty five online Master's of Business Administration degrees in the state of Pennsylvania. While these programs are offered within a spectrum of total tuition cost ranging between being classified as affordable to very expensive, each one of these programs is backed by their business school's being accredited by such reputable organizations as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, or the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education. We hope this ranking of the top online MBA programs in Pennsylvania will help you in your quest of finding an online degree that is right for you.

For more information about other online MBA programs, check out our article on the top MBA specializations and explore our other Online MBA Rankings.

Note: A detailed explanation of the methodology we used to determine the best online MBA programs in Pennsylvania can be found at the end of the ranking.

#1 Lehigh University College of Business and Economics – Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

The College of Business and Economics at Lehigh University features Pennsylvania's best online Master's of Business Administration with concentrations in Corporate Entrepreneurship, Finance, International Business, Marketing, Project Management, and Supply Chain Management. This 36-credit hour program is known as the Flex MBA as it allows students to complete coursework in the classroom, online, or in a combination of the two. This degree is classified as above average in affordability with a total tuition price between $30,000 and $49,999. U.S. News and World Report Best Business Schools Ranking reveals that some graduates from the Martin J. Whitman School of Management report an average base salary of $95,333 after graduation, showing a healthy potential for the return of investment in education. The five guiding principles of the Flex MBA include structured/unstructured decision-maker, leadership, ethical & social responsibility, extensive & inclusive thinking/communication, and comprehensive understanding of domestic & global business. While U.S. News & World Report has recently recognized the business school as offering the 19^th best online MBA in the nation, Quacquarelli Symonds has recognized this online MBA as the 25^th best on the planet. The business school receives its stellar business accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

Home of the Mountain Hawks who wear the school colors of brown and white, the athletic department at Lehigh University supports men's and women's varsity sports teams which compete at the NCAA Division I level as members of the Patriot League. The university is a four-year, private not-for-profit institution of higher learning with a main campus located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The university delivers degrees at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to the 7,059 students currently enrolled there. Lehigh was founded in 1865 by Asa Packer who named the school in recognition of his passion for the railroad. The university receives its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and features Homo minister et interpres naturae "Man, the servant and interpreter of nature" as its official school motto.

Affordability Score: Above Average
OMBAT Ranking Score: 100.00

#2 Drexel University Bennett S. LeBow College of Business – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Drexel University offers an online Master's of Business Administration with specializations in Accounting, Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship/Innovation Management, Finance, Healthcare Management, Marketing, Supply Chain and Logistics at the Bennett S. LeBow College of Business. This program features an accelerated plan of study with each year of coursework being divided into four 10-week quarters. This 49-credit hour program is classified as expensive with a total tuition price between $50,000 and $99,999. A great potential for a healthy return on the investment of education is apparent from U.S. News and World Report's Best Business Schools Ranking, which shows that some graduates from the School of Business report an average base salary of $65,625 after graduation. The Bennett S. LeBow College of Business receives its excellent business accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The AACSB is the gold standard for accrediting bodies in higher education. Courses within this program include Managing & Leading the Total Enterprise, Essentials of Financial Reporting, Leading in Dynamic Environments, Corporate Financial Management, Business Problem Solving, Managerial Economics, Managing & Leading the Total Enterprise, and Legal Options in Decision Making. While U.S. News & World Report has recently recognized the business school as offering the 61^st best online MBA in the nation, the Financial Times considers the program to be the 20^th best in the country. Quacquarelli Symonds has recently deemed this degree as being the 18^th best online MBA on the planet.

Established in 1891, Drexel University is a four-year, private not-for-profit institution of higher learning with a main campus located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Operating under the school motto of "Science, Industry, Art," the university was originally founded as the Drexel Institute of Art, Science and Industry by Anthony J. Drexel. Drexel was a successful Philadelphia businessman. Receiving its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the university delivers degrees at the associate, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to the student body of 24,232 currently enrolled. Home of the Dragons, the athletic department at Drexel supports 18 men's and women's varsity sports teams which compete at the NCAA Division I level as members of the Colonial Athletic Association. The school's official colors are blue and gold.

Affordability Score: Expensive
OMBAT Ranking Score: 92.45

#3 Penn State-World Campus Smeal College of Business – University Park, Pennsylvania

One of Pennsylvania's best online Master's of Business Administration degrees with concentrations in Accounting Foundations, Advanced Accounting, Business Analytics, Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Finance, General Management, Human Resource Management, Marketing Analytics, Project Management, and Supply Chain Management is offered at the Smeal College of Business through the Penn State World Campus. "The program provides opportunities for you to apply your knowledge to solving real-world business problems. Graduates should possess a strong foundation of understanding how businesses operate, how to integrate knowledge across functional areas, how to work effectively in high-performing teams, and how to lead and manage strategically for the future." This 48-credit hour program is classified as expensive in affordability with a total tuition price between $50,000 and $99,999. A great potential for a healthy return on the investment of education is apparent from U.S. News and World Report's Best Business Schools Ranking, which shows that some graduates from the Smeal College of Business report an average base salary of $105,462 after graduation. The business school, which receives its excellent business accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, has recently been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as offering the 10^th best online MBA in the nation.

Penn State World Campus was established in 1998. The campus grew out of the school's long history of prioritizing distance education that dates all the way back to 1892. Receiving its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the university exists today as a four-year, public institution of higher learning with a main campus in University Park, Pennsylvania. Penn State World Campus currently offers over 150 online degrees at the associate, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels, to a student body of over 13,400.

Affordability Score: Expensive
OMBAT Ranking Score: 90.94

#4 La Salle University School of Business – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The School of Business at La Salle University features one of Pennsylvania's best online Master's of Business Administration degrees with specializations in Accounting, Business Systems & Analytics, Finance, Management, and Marketing. This excellent degree is also offered as a general MBA. This 33-credit hour program is classified as average in affordability with a total tuition price between $20,000 and $29,999. According to the U.S. News and World Report Best Business Schools Ranking, graduates from the School of Business report an average base salary of $55,174 after graduation, which shows great potential for a healthy return on the investment of education. The business school receives its stellar business accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. This program has been designed to help students develop "strategic thinking through integrating discipline-specific business knowledge, leadership and teamwork, business-related oral and written communication skills, understanding the ways in which the business environment influences decision-making, and financial analysis, operational reporting, and global and regional markets." Students with the proper academic experience may waive up to six hours of foundational credits.

Home of the Explorers who wear the school colors of blue and gold, the athletic department at La Salle University supports 20 men's and women's varsity sports teams which compete at the NCAA Division I level as members of the Atlantic 10 Conference. La Salle is a four-year, private not-for-profit institution of higher learning with a main campus located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The university delivers degrees at the associate, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to the 5,197 students currently enrolled there. La Salle University was established in 1863 by the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools. The school receives its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and features Virtus, Scientia "Virtue, Knowledge" as its official school motto.

Affordability Score: Average
OMBAT Ranking Score: 81.56

#5 Carnegie Mellon University Tepper School of Business – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Carnegie Mellon University's Tepper School of Business features one of Pennsylvania's best online Master's of Business Administration degrees with a concentration in Accounting, Communications, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Ethics and Social Responsibility, Finance, Business Technologies, Marketing, Operations Management, Operations Research, Organizational Behavior, and Strategy. U.S. News & World Report has recently recognized the business school as offering the 2^nd best online MBA in the nation. This online MBA has also been selected as the 6^th best on the planet by Quacquarelli Symonds. This eight-semester degree is classified as very expensive in affordability with a total tuition price greater than $100,000. According to the U.S. News and World Report Best Business Schools Ranking, graduates from the business school report an average base salary of $119,402 after graduation, which shows great potential for a healthy return on the investment of education. The Tepper School of Business receives its excellent business accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Admission requirements for the degree include a completed application form, a $200 application fee, current resume, one essay, one professional recommendation, unofficial transcripts from all institutions attended, and GMAT/GRE scores. Core courses within this program include Managerial Economics, Global Economics, Finance I, Marketing Management, Managing People and Teams, Managing Networks and Organizations, Ethics and Leadership, and Operations Management.

Established in 1900 as Carnegie Technical Schools, today's Carnegie Mellon University is a four-year, private not-for-profit institution of higher learning with a main campus located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Operating under the school motto of "My Heart is in the Work," the school receives its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Carnegie Mellon delivers degrees at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to the student body of 13,258 currently enrolled there. Home of the Tartans, the athletic department at CMU supports men's and women's varsity sports teams which compete at the NCAA Division III level as members of the University Athletic Association. The school's official colors are cardinal, black, grey, and white.

Affordability Score: Very Expensive
OMBAT Ranking Score: 85.25

#6 (Tied) Shippensburg University John L. Grove College of Business – Shippensburg, Pennsylvania

The John L. Grove College of Business at Shippensburg University delivers one of Pennsylvania's best online Master's of Business Administration degrees with concentrations in Finance, Health Care Management, and Supply Chain Management. This degree can also be pursued as a general MBA. This 30-credit hour program is classified as affordable with a total tuition price between $15,000 and $19,999. The business school receives its stellar business accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. U.S. News & World Report has recently recognized the business school as offering the 116^th best online MBA in the nation. Admission requirements include the submission of a GMAT/GRE score, current resume, official transcripts from all previously attended institutions of higher learning, a goals statement, a complete Track Selection form, and an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university. Applicants possessing five or more years of work experience after finishing an undergraduate degree, or those who are members of Beta Gamma Sigma may be able to waive the GMAT requirement in the application process. This degree is divided between foundation courses, core courses, a capstone course, and elective courses. Core courses include Managerial Accounting, Corporate Financial Management, IT Management and Innovation, International Business, Organizational Leadership, Contemporary Decision Making, Marketing Management, and Supply Chain Management.

Home of the Raiders who wear the school colors of blue and red, the athletic department at Shippensburg University supports men's and women's varsity sports teams which compete at the NCAA Division II level as members of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference. Shippensburg is a four-year, public institution of higher learning with a main campus located in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. The university delivers degrees at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to the 6,972 students currently enrolled there. The university was founded in 1871 as Cumberland Valley State Normal School. Through the years the institution would change names serval times and have its focus grow to the point of it receiving its university status in 1983. Shippensburg University receives its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Affordability Score: Affordable
OMBAT Ranking Score: 67.61

#6 (Tied) West Chester University of Pennsylvania College of Business and Public Management – West Chester, Pennsylvania

West Chester University of Pennsylvania offers an online Master's of Business Administration with certificates in Entrepreneurship, Health Care Management, Human Resource Management, Project Management, Business Analytics, and Public Administration through the College of Business and Public Management. This 30-credit hour program is classified as affordable with a total tuition price between $15,000 and $19,999. The College of Business and Public Management receives its excellent business accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The AACSB is the one of the nation's best accrediting bodies in higher education. This degree "features a dynamic curriculum that exposes students to the core business topics relevant to a global business environment." This degree consists of 10 courses including Strategic Cost Management, Financial Analysis and Valuation, Global Operations and Supply Chain Management, Components of Effective Leadership, Business, Society & Environment, and economic Analysis for Business. U.S. News & World Report has recently recognized the business school as offering the 85^th best online MBA in the nation.

Established in 1871, West Chester University of Pennsylvania is a four-year, public institution of higher learning with a main campus located in West Chester, Pennsylvania. The university was originally founded as West Chester Normal School with the express intent of training future public school teachers in the region. West Chester would later become a state college before being granted its university status in 1983 when it joined the Pennsylvania State System. Receiving its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, WCU delivers degrees at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to the student body of 17,005 currently enrolled there. The athletic department at the school supports nine men's and 14 women's varsity sports teams which compete at the NCAA Division III level as members of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference.

Affordability Score: Affordable
OMBAT Ranking Score: 67.61

#8 Clarion University College of Business Administration and Information Sciences – Clarion, Pennsylvania

One of Pennsylvania's best online Master's of Business Administration degrees with concentrations in Accounting, Finance, Healthcare, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Nonprofit Business is delivered at the College of Business Administration and Information Sciences by Clarion University. This 30-credit hour program is classified as affordable with a total tuition price between $15,000 and $19,999. The business school has recently been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as offering the 100^th best online MBA in the nation. The College of Business Administration and Information Sciences receives its excellent business accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Admission requirements for this degree include a completed online Graduate Application with corresponding $40 application fee, official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended, and a resume. Core courses within this program include Leadership and Organization, Quantitative Analysis for Business, Management Accounting, Legal & Ethical Environment of Business, Advanced Managerial Economics, Managerial Finance, Marketing Decision Making, Operations Management and Information Systems, and Strategic Management/Business Policy.

Clarion University was established in 1867 as the Carrier Seminary of Western Pennsylvania. The commonwealth of Pennsylvania purchased the school in 1915 and Clarion became a college-level institution five years later. Receiving its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the university exists today as a four-year, public institution of higher learning with a main campus in Clarion, Pennsylvania. Delivering degrees at the associate, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels, Clarion oversees a student body of 5,224. Home of the Golden Eagles who compete at the NCAA Division III level as members of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference, the school's official colors are blue and gold.

Affordability Score: Affordable
OMBAT Ranking Score: 67.25

#9 Point Park University Rowland School of Business – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

The Rowland School of Business at Point Park University features one of Pennsylvania's best online Master's of Business Administration programs with an emphasis in Management. This 36-credit hour program is classified as average in affordability with a total tuition price between $20,000 and $29,999. The Rowland School of Business receives its excellent business accreditation through the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education. The curriculum for this program has been designed to help students "gain a deep understanding of critical business topics, including ethics, international finance and business law. Each course is taught by one of our experienced faculty members, who bring their real-world knowledge to the classroom. Thanks to our supportive learning environment, you'll have access to all the tools you need to succeed now and in your future career endeavors." Admission requirements for this program include an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university with a corresponding GPA of at least 2.75, a 500-word statement of purpose explaining goals and objectives, two letters of recommendation from employers, supervisors, or professors, and a current resume. Courses within this program include Accounting for Managers, Ethical Leadership & Sustainable Organizations, Global Environment of Business, Legal Environment of Business, Marketing, Corporate Finance, Organizational Behavior, Organizational Systems, Quantitative Methods, Strategic Planning, and Managerial Economics. U.S. News & World Report has recently recognized the business school as offering the 205^th best online MBA in the nation.

Home of the Pioneers and featuring the mascot Black Diamond II the Bison, Point Park University is a four-year, private not-for-profit institution of higher learning with a main campus situated in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The university delivers degrees at the associate, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to the 4,093 students currently enrolled there. The college was established in 1960 as Point Park Junior College. Six years later the school began offering a four-year curriculum and in 2004, Point Park was awarded its university status. Operating under the motto of Pro Arte, Pro Communitate, Pro Professione (For Knowledge, For Community, For Career), the school receives its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Affordability Score: Average
OMBAT Ranking Score: 64.01

#10 Robert Morris University School of Business – Moon Township, Pennsylvania

Robert Morris University's School of Business features one of Pennsylvania's best online Master's of Business Administration degrees. Admission requirements for this degree include an online application, submission of all official transcripts from previously attended colleges and universities, two current letters of recommendation, and graduate entrance exam scores. This degree has been designed to prepare the student for a fruitful career in business leadership. "Our industry insiders will teach you practical, applicable skills that will enhance your ability to identify and implement strategic and tactical solutions. The program will reinforce your tacit knowledge while filling the gap in areas outside your current expertise. You'll graduate with a refined repertoire of problem-solving and management skills and be capable of working effectively in the accelerating marketplace of ideas." Divided between 21 credits of core courses, nine credits of electives, and a prerequisite course, the core courses within this 30-credit hour program include Leading the Business Enterprise, Customer Value/Digital World, Analytical Methods for Decision Making, Today's Business Environment, and Strategic Knowledge Integration. This program is classified as average in affordability with a total tuition price between $20,000 and $29,999. The School of Business, which receives its excellent business accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, has recently been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as offering the 72^nd best online MBA in the nation.

Established in 1921 when Andrew Blass founded the Pittsburgh School of Accountancy, today's Robert Morris University, is a four-year, private not-for-profit institution of higher learning with a main campus located in Town Moonship, Pennsylvania. The university changed its name to the Robert Morris School of Business in 1935 to honor the founding father who is widely regarded as the financier of the American Revolution. Receiving its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the university delivers degrees at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to the student body of 5,199 currently enrolled there. Home of the Colonials, the athletic department at RMU supports men's and women's varsity sports teams which compete at the NCAA Division I level as members of the Northeast Conference. The school's official colors are blue, white, and red.

Affordability Score: Average
OMBAT Ranking Score: 64.33

#11 Waynesburg University Department of Business Administration – Waynesburg, Pennsylvania

One of the Pennsylvania's best online Master's of Business Administration degrees with concentrations in Applied Business, Energy Management, Finance, Human Resources/Leadership, Health Systems Administrator, Market Development, and Project Management is offered at Waynesburg University's Department of Business Administration. This 36-credit hour program is classified as average in affordability with a total tuition price between $20,000 and $29,999. Core courses included in this program are Accounting Concepts & Applications, Seminar in Applied Economics, International Business, Financial Management OR Financial Management in Healthcare, Organizational Behavior, Management Information Systems, Marketing Management, Statistical Methods, and Management Policy. U.S. News & World Report has recently recognized the business school as offering the 205^th best online MBA in the nation. Admission Requirements for this program include a completed application, official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities, an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution revealing a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0, a current resume, and two completed reference forms. The Department of Business Administration receives its business accreditation through the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education.

Home of the Yellow Jackets, Waynesburg University features an affiliation with the Presbyterian Church (USA). The athletic department at the university supports men's and women's varsity sports teams which compete at the NCAA Division III level as members of the Presidents' Athletic Conference. Waynesburg is a four-year, private not-for-profit institution of higher learning delivering degrees at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to the 1,805 students currently enrolled there. The university was founded in 1850 as Waynesburg College and named after General Anthony Wayne, a United States Army officer and statesman. The school's official motto is Fiat Lux (Let There Be Light).

Affordability Score: Average
OMBAT Ranking Score: 63.88

#12 Widener University School of Business Administration – Chester, Pennsylvania

Widener University offers one of Pennsylvania's best online Master's of Business Administration programs with concentrations in Business Process Management and Health Care Management at the School of Business Administration. The degree can also be completed as a general MBA. This 33-credit hour program is classified as above average in affordability with a total tuition price between $30,000 and $49,999. U.S. News & World Report has recently recognized the business school as offering the 205^th best online MBA in the nation. The School of Business Administration receives its excellent business accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The AACSB is one of the most prestigious accrediting bodies in higher education. This excellent 100% online MBA has been designed to train students to be able to "develop creative, responsible, and ethical business strategies and measure their impact on performance, create and lead innovative approaches to business issues, and recognize the interaction and interdependence of management, economics, politics, and social responsibility." Core courses within this program include Leading Organizations and People, Information Systems and Data Analytics, Managerial Economics in an Innovative Environment, Marketing, Accounting and Managerial Decision Making, Strategic Financial Management, Managing Business Processes, and Managing for Results.

Established in 1821 as the Bullock School for Boys in Wilmington, Delaware, today's Widener University is a four-year, private not-for-profit institution of higher learning with a main campus located in Chester, Pennsylvania. The school later centered on military instruction and was renamed Pennsylvania Military Academy in 1862. In 1972 the school was once again renamed to honor the Widener family of Philadelphia and received its university status in 1979. Receiving its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the university delivers degrees at the associate, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to the student body of 6,402 currently enrolled there. Home of the Pride, the athletic department at Widener supports 20 men's and women's varsity sports teams which compete at the NCAA Division III level as members of the MAC. The school's official colors are Widener Blue and gold.

Affordability Score: Above Average
OMBAT Ranking Score: 63.26

#13 University of Scranton Arthur J. Kania School of Management – Scranton, Pennsylvania

An online Master's of Business Administration with Accounting, Enterprise Resource Planning, Healthcare Management, Human Resources, International Business, Operations Management specializations, or offered as a general MBA, is delivered by the Arthur J. Kania School of Management at the University of Scranton. "Designed to meet the needs of working professionals, The University of Scranton's online Master's of Business Administration degree offers rigorous academic preparation, AACSB accreditation and access to courses taught by our world-class faculty on a 24-hour daily basis." This 36-credit hour program is classified as above average in affordability with a total tuition price between $30,000 and $49,999. The Arthur J. Kania School of Management receives its excellent business accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and has recently been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as offering the 108^th best online MBA in the nation. This degree begins with the required Cornerstone courses of Responsibility, Sustainability, and Justice and also includes the following core courses of Accounting for Management, Managerial Economics, Financial Management, Operations Management, Management Information Systems, Organizational Behavior, and Marketing Management.

Originally founded as St. Thomas College in 1888, today's University of Scranton operates under the school motto of Religio Mores Cultura (Religion Morals Culture). Receiving its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the university exists today as a four-year, private not-for-profit institution of higher learning with a main campus in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Delivering degrees at the associate, undergraduate graduate, and doctoral levels, the university oversees a student body of 5,380. Home of the Royals and Lady Royals, the official school colors are purple and white. The athletic department at the university consists of men's and women's varsity sports teams which compete at the NCAA Division III level as members of the Landmark Conference.

Affordability Score: Above Average
OMBAT Ranking Score: 62.87

#14 Temple University Fox School of Business – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Fox School of Business at Temple University features one of Pennsylvania's best online Master's of Business Administration programs with concentrations in Business Management, Corporate Compliance, Governance and Regulatory, Entrepreneurship, Financial Management, Human Resource Management, Innovation Management, Marketing Management, Sport Business, Strategic Management, Supply Chain Management, Travel & Tourism (Business Analytics, Enterprise Risk Management, Health Sector Management-these concentration courses are only delivered on campus). This 48-credit hour program begins with a one-week residency on campus which allows for professional development, networking, and counts as your first course of the program. This online program is classified as expensive with a total tuition price between $50,000 and $99,999. As many as nine credits may be waived by students with the proper academic experience. Courses within this program include Leadership Development, Financial Accounting, Quantitative Methods for Business, Industrial Organization for Business Strategy, Managing Risk, and Business Strategy in a Global Environment. The Princeton Review has recently recognized the business school as offering the 3^rd best online MBA in the nation while Quacquarelli Symonds has named it the eighth best in the world. The Fox School of Business receives its excellent business accreditation through the AACSB.

Temple University is a four-year, public institution of higher learning with a main campus located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The university delivers degrees at the associate, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to the 39,296 students currently enrolled there. Temple was originally established in 1884 by Russell Conwell who began teaching students at night in Grace Baptist Church's temple. The students were referred to as "night owls" which led to the school's mascot, the Owls. Temple receives its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The men's and women's varsity sports teams at Temple compete at the NCAA Division I level as members of the American Conference, the school's official colors are cherry and white.

Affordability Score: Expensive
OMBAT Ranking Score: 64.79

#15 DeSales University Division of Business – Center Valley, Pennsylvania

DeSales University's Division of Business features one of Pennsylvania's best online Master's of Business Administration degrees with concentrations in Accounting, Data Analytics, Finance, Financial Planning, Healthcare Management, Human Resource Management, Information Systems, Management, Marketing, Project Management, Self-Design, and Supply Chain Management. This 12-course, 100% online degree is classified as above average in affordability with a total tuition price between $30,000 and $49,999. Students lacking a business undergraduate degree may still apply for this program and will need to complete some foundational coursework. There is a GMAT waiver available for applicants. Core courses within this program include Financial and Managerial Accounting, Business and Society, Marketing Management, Organizational Management, Financial Management, Executive Skills Development, and Business Computing. This program also features an open-enrollment policy allowing students to begin coursework at any time of year. Students taking three 12-week terms in the fall, winter, and spring followed by one six-week term in the summer can complete this degree in an accelerated time period. U.S. News & World Report has recently recognized the business school as offering the 96^th best online MBA in the nation. The Division of Business receives its business accreditation through the ACBSP.

Established in 1964, DeSales University is a four-year, private, not-for-profit institution of higher learning with a main campus located in Center Valley, Pennsylvania. Operating under the school motto of "Be Who You Are and Be That Well," the university was originally founded as Allentown College of St. Francis de Sales by the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales. Receiving its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the university delivers degrees at the associate, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral and levels to the student body of 2,742 currently enrolled there. Home of the Bulldogs, the athletic department at the school supports men's and women's varsity sports teams which compete at the NCAA Division III level as members of the Middle Atlantic States Collegiate Athletic Conference. The school's official colors are blue and red.

Affordability Score: Above Average
OMBAT Ranking Score: 62.37

#16 Saint Francis University Shields School of Business – Loretto, Pennsylvania

The Shields School of Business at Saint Francis University delivers an online Master's of Business Administration with specializations in Accounting, Finance, Health Care Administration, Management Information Systems, Human Resource Management, Labor Relations, and Marketing. This 36-credit hour program is classified as above average in affordability with a total tuition price between $30,000 and $49,999. This 100% online program "offers a quality management education that provides the personal touch that comes with small classes, great customer service, and a talented faculty who genuinely care about teaching and learning outcomes. Our program is convenient, flexible, and offers many choices in elective/specialization areas." Courses within this degree include Strategic Management, Marketing Management, System Analysis & Design, Perspectives on Management, Leadership, and Leadership Through Gender. The Shields School of Business receives its top-notch business accreditation through the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education. Applicant requirements for this degree include a completed ad signed application for admission with non-refundable $30 fee, two letters of recommendation, a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0, official transcripts, and GMAT exam results. A GMAT waiver may be granted to applicants with four years of professional work experience or a cumulative GPA of 3.3 or higher.

Home of the Red Flash who wear the school colors of red and white, the athletic department at Saint Francis University supports men's and women's varsity sports teams which compete at the NCAA Division I level as members of the Northeast Conference. Saint Francis is a four-year, private not-for-profit institution of higher learning with a main campus located in Loretto, Pennsylvania. The university delivers degrees at the associate, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to the 2,742 students currently enrolled there. The school was founded in 1847 as one of the first Catholic universities in the nation and the first Franciscan college in the United States. Saint Francis University receives its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and offers 25 undergraduate majors and seven graduate fields of study.

Affordability Score: Above Average
OMBAT Ranking Score: 62.07

#17 California University of Pennsylvania School of Graduate Studies and Research – California, Pennsylvania

California University of Pennsylvania offers one of the state's best online Master's of Business Administration degrees with concentrations in Entrepreneurship, Business Analytics, Healthcare Management and delivered as a general MBA at the School of Graduate Studies and Research. This 36-credit hour program is classified as affordable with a total tuition price between $15,000 and $19,999. This incredible, 100% online MBA has been designed to "provide a well-rounded business education that focuses on quantitative and technology tools to make you job ready to compete in our global economy, meet the needs of today's professionals to easily fit courses into busy schedules: complete your online MBA degree full time in as little as 12 months, and train you for strong career opportunities here in Pennsylvania or across the country." U.S. News & World Report has recently recognized the business school as offering the 179^th best online MBA in the nation. Courses within this program include Marketing Management, Managerial Accounting, Business Law, Investment Management, International Business Management, Business Ethics, Quantitative Methods, Production Management, and Human Resource Management.

Established in 1852, California University of Pennsylvania is a four-year, public institution of higher learning with a main campus located in California, Pennsylvania. The university got its start as an academy for kindergarten through college students which quickly became a normal school. In 1928 the school was renamed the California State Teachers College after developing a four-year curriculum. The State System of Higher Education accepted the school in 1983 and it received its university status the same year. Receiving its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the school delivers degrees at the associate, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to the student body of 7,553 currently enrolled.

Affordability Score: Affordable
OMBAT Ranking Score: 60.56

#18 Chatham University School of Arts, Science & Business – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

One of Pennsylvania's best online Master's of Business Administration programs with concentrations in Food and Agriculture, Healthcare Management, Entrepreneurial Leadership and Strategy, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management, Project Management, Self-Designed, and Information Management is delivered by the School of Arts, Science & Business at Chatham University. This 36-credit hour program "prepares aspiring professionals for careers in specialized fields through an innovative curriculum, personalized attention, and a dynamic network of business leaders" and is classified as above average in affordability with a total tuition price between $30,000 and $49,999. Divided between eight core courses, three concentration courses, and an MBA capstone, the core courses within this program include Global Business, Sustainable Human Capital, Information Systems and Analytics, Accounting Information Systems, Economics for managers, Managerial Accounting, Cost Analysis, Managerial Accounting, Marketing Management, Corporate Finance, Strategy and Entrepreneurship, and Business Consulting Capstone. The School of Arts, Science & Business, which receives its excellent business accreditation through the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education, has recently been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as offering the 205^th best online MBA in the nation.

Chatham University was established in 1869 as the Pennsylvania Female College by Rev William Trimble Beatty. The school's original campus consisted of the Berry mansion within the neighborhood of Shadyside. The school became Chatham College in 1955 and would receive its university status in 2007. Receiving its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the college exists today as a four-year, private not-for-profit institution of higher learning with a main campus in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Delivering degrees at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels, Chatham oversees a student body of 2,110. Home of the Cougars, the school's official motto is Filiae Nostrae Sicut Antarii Lapides (That our daughters may be as cornerstones, polished after the similitude of a palace.)

Affordability Score: Above Average
OMBAT Ranking Score: 61.59

#19 Delaware Valley University – Doylestown, Pennsylvania

One of Pennsylvania's best online Master's of Business Administration degrees with concentrations in Accounting, Food and Agribusiness, Supply Chain Management or delivered as a general MBA is offered at Delaware Valley University. Key features of this program include the option to take courses 100% online, in person, or as a combination of the two, a rolling admission and seven entry points for starting each year, no minimum credit-per-term requirement, and a practitioner-based faculty. This 30-credit hour program is classified as average in affordability with a total tuition price between $20,000 and $29,999. Qualifying students with the proper academic background may waive up to 24 credit hours of coursework saving time and money on this incredible degree. The core requirements for this degree consist of 21 credits including such courses as Managerial Accounting for Decision Makers, Financial Management, Marketing Management, Organizational Dynamics, Operations Management, Strategic Management of Business enterprises, and Executive Capstone Seminar. Admission requirements include an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university, a minimum GPA of 2.7 for GMAT waiver, three letters of recommendation, and a completed admission application with $50, a current resume, and a "500-word personal statement that includes personal and career goals, interest in the chosen DelVal graduate program, and a summary of strengths and areas for growth." U.S. News & World Report recently recognized the business school as offering the 189^th best online MBA in the nation.

Home of the Aggies who wear the school colors of green and gold, the athletic department at Delaware Valley University supports 22 men's and women's varsity sports teams which compete at the NCAA Division III level as members of the Middle Atlantic Conference. The college is a four-year, private not-for-profit institution of higher learning with a main campus located in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. DelVal delivers degrees at the associate, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to the 2,376 students currently enrolled there. Delaware Valley University was established in 1896 as National Farm School. The school's original purpose was to teach science concepts through practical application on the farm. Delaware Valley receives its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Affordability Score: Average
OMBAT Ranking Score: 59.10

#20 Alvernia University Business Department – Reading, Pennsylvania

Alvernia University's Business Department features one of Pennsylvania's best online Master's of Business Administration degrees. This 30-credit hour degree is classified as affordable with a total tuition price between $15,000 and $19,999. Students can complete all requirements for this degree in just one year while taking all courses online. Divided between required interdisciplinary courses, required business courses, an elective, and a capstone course, the core courses within this program include Accounting for the Workplace, Management and Marketing, Economics and Finance, Managerial Accounting, Corporate Communication, Marketing Services, Legal Environment, and Managerial Economics. Candidates interested in this program are encouraged to complete an application, provide proof of an undergraduate degree, and submit three letters of recommendation, a one-page personal statement, a resume, and graduate entrance exam scores to the admissions office in order to begin the acceptance process. The Business Department receives its stellar business accreditation through the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

Established in 1958, Alvernia University is a four-year, private not-for-profit institution of higher learning with a main campus located in Reading, Pennsylvania. Operating under the school motto of "To Learn, To Love, To Serve," the university got its start as a teacher's seminary established in 1926 by the Bernardine Sisters of the Third Order of Saint Francis. Alvernia was granted its university status in 2008. Receiving its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the university delivers degrees at the associate, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to the student body of 2,872 currently enrolled there. The athletic department at the university supports eight men's and 10 women's varsity sports teams which compete at the NCAA Division III level as members of the MAC Commonwealth.

Affordability Score: Affordable
OMBAT Ranking Score: 57.75

#21 Messiah College School of Graduate Studies – Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

The School of Graduate Studies at Messiah College offers an online Master's of Business Administration with Digital Marketing, Social Entrepreneurship, Organizational and Strategic Communication, Strategic Leadership, Management, and Dietetics specializations. This 36-credit hour program is classified as average in affordability with a total tuition price between $20,000 and $29,999. The business school receives its stellar business accreditation through the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. This 100% online degree has been "designed for recent graduates and professionals who want to advance their career and opportunities by developing ethical leadership skills and management tools that can transform organizations, benefit employees and enrich the community." Consisting of eight-week terms, students can complete all requirements for this program in just two years. The core courses within this degree include Managerial Accounting and Finance, Business Strategy and Execution, Decision-Making with Data, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Management Capstone, Global Business & Economic Development, Best Practices in Leadership, Organizational Effectiveness, and Marketing Strategy.

Home of the Falcons who wear the school colors of Navy and white, the athletic department at Messiah College supports men's and women's varsity sports teams which compete at the NCAA Division III level as members of the Middle Atlantic Conference. Messiah is a four-year, private not-for-profit institution of higher learning with a main campus located in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. The university delivers degrees at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to the 3,305 students currently enrolled there. Messiah College was established by the Brethren in Christ Church in 1909 and was originally named Messiah Bible School and Missionary Training Home. The school receives its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and features "Christ Preeminent" as its official school motto.

Affordability Score: Average
OMBAT Ranking Score: 56.01

#22 Saint Joseph's University Erivan K. Haub School of Business – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Saint Joseph's University's Erivan K. Haub School of Business features an online Master's of Business Administration programs with concentrations in General Business, Accounting, Business Intelligence & Analytics, Finance, Health and Medical Services Administration, International Business, International Marketing, Leading, Marketing. This 53-credit hour degree is classified as expensive with a total tuition price between $50,000 and $99,999. The Erivan K. Haub School of Business receives its excellent business accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. This degree has been designed to "strengthen the managerial effectiveness and leadership potential of both current and future professionals while at the same time fostering a genuine sensitivity to the ethical, moral, and cultural aspects of contemporary global society. This objective is to be accomplished through effective teaching, meaningful curricula, appropriate advising, and faculty commitment to research and service." This program is divided between 20 Foundation Course credits, six Gateway Course credits, 15 Core Course credits, nine Concentration credits, and three Cross-functional Capstone credits. U.S. News & World Report has recently recognized the business school as offering the 91^st best online MBA in the nation.

Established in 1851, Saint Joseph's University is a four-year, private not-for-profit institution of higher learning with a main campus located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Receiving its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the university delivers degrees at the associate, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to the student body of 8,415 currently enrolled there. Home of the Hawks, the athletic department at SJU supports men's and women's varsity sports teams which compete at the NCAA Division I level as members of the Atlantic 10 Conference. While the school's official colors are crimson and gray, the school's motto is Universitas Sancti Iosephi (Spirit, Intellect, Purpose).

Affordability Score: Expensive
OMBAT Ranking Score: 57.95

#23 Misericordia University College of Business – Dallas, Pennsylvania

The College of Business at Misericordia University delivers one of Pennsylvania's best online Master's of Business Administration programs with specializations in Accounting, Healthcare Management, Human Resource Management, Management, and Sport Management. This 36-credit hour program has been designed to "address the ethical, moral, and philosophical issues related to management and business leadership in a direct and meaningful approach. The program is uniquely designed to intertwine a traditional MBA curriculum with ‘soft skills' and will cover ‘the human side of management.' The program goals and objectives reflect an emphasis on critical thinking, practice-based creation and interpretation of business data, and comprehensive decision making that considers all information available and all aspects of the impact of decisions." This degree is classified as average in affordability with a total tuition price between $20,000 and $29,999. The business school receives its noteworthy business accreditation through the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education. The core courses within this program include Organizational Behavior and Development, Law and the Business Environment, Marketing Management, Information Analysis and Interpretation, Human Resources Management for Leaders, Information Systems for Management, and Managerial Economics. The application process for this program features no GMAT or letters of recommendation requirements.

Home of the Cougars who wear the school colors of blue and yellow, the athletic department at the Misericordia University supports men's and women's varsity sports teams which compete at the NCAA Division III level as members of the Middle Atlantic Conference. Misericordia is a four-year, private not-for-profit institution of higher learning with a main campus located in Dallas, Pennsylvania. The university delivers degrees at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to the 2,808 students currently enrolled there. The university was founded as College Misericordia in 1924 by the Religious Sisters of Mercy. Misericordia University, known as the oldest four-year institution of higher learning in Luzerne County, receives its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Affordability Score: Average
OMBAT Ranking Score: 54.98

#24 Gannon University College of Engineering and Business – Erie, Pennsylvania

Gannon University offers an online Master's of Business Administration with Finance, Human Resource Management, and Marketing specializations at the College of Business. Students with the proper academic experience can waive up to 18 credits of Foundation courses and complete all requirements for this degree by taking only 30-credit hours. This 100% online program is classified as above average in affordability with a total tuition price between $30,000 and $49,999. "The collective experience of the program's expert faculty transcends academics and industries, and their unique interdisciplinary approach toward business education allows you to immediately apply the tools, skills and strategies taught throughout the program. Gannon graduates embody the spirit of entrepreneurship in their local communities and beyond." Students with the proper academic experience can waive up to seven foundation courses saving time and money. Divided between 21 credits of Core courses and nine specialization credits, the MBA Core Courses within this program include Managerial Accounting, Organizational Culture, Creativity and Change, Operations and Supply Chain Management, Strategic Marketing Management, Financial Management, Leadership and Business Ethics, and Business Policy and Strategy. The College of Engineering and Business receives its excellent business accreditation through the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. The ACBSP is one of the most highly-respected accrediting bodies in higher education.

Established in 1925, Gannon University is a four-year, private not-for-profit institution of higher learning with a main campus located in Erie, Pennsylvania. Operating under the school motto of Sanitas, Scientia, Sanctitas (Health, Knowledge, Holiness), the university was originally founded by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Erie and known as Cathedral College. Receiving its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the university delivers degrees at the associate, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels to the student body of 4,343 currently enrolled there. Home of the Golden Knights who wear the official school colors of maroon and gold, the school's athletic department supports men's and women's varsity sports teams which compete at the NCAA Division II level as members of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference.

Affordability Score: Above Average
OMBAT Ranking Score: 54.30

#25 Villanova University School of Business – Villanova, Pennsylvania

One of Pennsylvania's best online Master's of Business Administration programs with concentrations in Finance, Marketing, Analytics, International Business, and Strategic Management is delivered by the School of Business at Villanova University. This 48-credit hour program is classified as expensive in affordability with a total tuition price between $50,000 and $99,999. The business school has recently been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as offering the 61^st best online MBA in the nation. The School of Business receives its excellent business accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. This 100% online degree offers "the community, robust curriculum, elite faculty and quality of an established, highly ranked on-campus MBA program. You can enjoy an individualized experience, graduate with esteemed credentials, earn your place in the Nova Nation and give your career a competitive edge." Divided between Functional Core Courses, VSB Pillars, and Capstones, the Functional Core Courses within this program include Performance Measurement and Reporting Fundamentals: A Global Accounting Perspective, Business Operations in the 21^st Century, Analyzing and Leveraging Data, Corporate Finance, Team Leadership and Group Dynamics, and Strategic Marketing Management.

Villanova University was established in 1842 as the Augustinian College of Villanova by two Augustinian friars from Philadelphia's Saint Augustine's Church. The school lasted only three years due to financial difficulties but was incorporated in 1848 and would award its first graduate degrees eleven years later. Over the years the school would go through growing pains and several name changes before becoming coeducational in 1968. Receiving its regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the university exists today as a four-year, private not-for-profit institution of higher learning with a main campus in Villanova, Pennsylvania. Delivering degrees at the associate, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels, the university oversees a student body of 10,842 students. Operating under the school motto of Veritas, Unitas, Caritas "Truth, Unity, Charity," the school's official colors are blue and white.

Affordability Score: Expensive
OMBAT Ranking Score: 55.67

Methodology

To find the top Online MBA programs in Pennsylvania, a list of almost 490 online MBA programs was collected, and each program was evaluated first for a location in the state of Pennsylvania, and then ranked on the following factors:

Estimated Tuition Cost (25%): Each online MBA was evaluated to find the estimated total base tuition cost. Data was gathered from the most recent information on each program or school website. The base tuition was calculated for the whole program, but does not included fees, books, or room and board; with the exception of programs that use all-inclusive figures. For colleges that offer a lower in-state tuition, the in-state pricing is used. Twenty-five percent of the final ranking score is calculated from this figure.

Based on this base tuition data, each program is given an Affordability Score:

Very Expensive = $100,000+
Expensive = $50,000-$99,999
Above Average = $30,000-$49,999
Average = $20,000-$29,999
Affordable = $15,000-$19,999
Very Affordable = $0-$14,999

Accreditation (25%): Accreditation plays an important role in education. It attests to which school has attained high national and global standards in its research and delivered education. Each online MBA in this list is evaluated on whether it holds a regional accreditation from one of the six institutions that are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Additional business accreditations affect an MBA's brand and prestige, which can thus affect a graduate's competitive advantage in the job market. Each school is ranked on if the online MBA program is accredited by one of the top business accrediting institutions: ACBSP, IACBE, or AACSB. AACSB is regarded as the highest standard of business accreditation in the world, and thus schools that hold this accreditation are given the highest scores. Twenty-five percent of the final ranking score is calculated from this figure.

Average Base Salary (25%): The salary data is highlighted in this top online MBA ranking because it allows prospective students to explore the affect an online MBA degree can have on a graduate's salary. The average base salary is collected from the 2018 Best Business School Ranking by US News and World Report. Programs without a recorded average base salary from this list was calculated at zero because of no available third-party data. Twenty-five percent of the final ranking score is calculated from this figure.

Prestige (25%): The prestige for each program is calculated by evaluating lists from some of the most prestigious educational rankings systems for online MBA programs: US News and World Report's Online MBA Ranking, the Princeton Review's Online MBA Ranking, the Financial Times' Global Online MBA Ranking, and Quacquarelli Symonds' Distance Online MBA Ranking. Each online MBA was evaluated on how many rankings included their program. Twenty-five percent of the final ranking score is calculated from this figure.

All of this criteria was weighted equally, averaged, and then calculated on a 100-point scale. This score is the OMBAT Ranking Score, which provides the ranking order for this list. By evaluating the tuition cost, accreditation, average base salary, and prestige, this ranking helps prospective students find the highest quality online MBA programs in Pennsylvania.