One-year MBA programs allow students to graduate twice as fast as traditional top MBA programs. Most MBA degrees take two years to earn, but there are accelerated MBA programs available that can be completed in as little as one year or less.
The Nation’s Best One-Year MBA Programs
Thankfully, MBA students do not have to choose between a fast completion time and a quality education. Some of the top business schools in the nation now offer accelerated one-year MBA programs, in both traditional formats and online. Our consensus ranking of the best one-year MBA programs helps students quickly identify those top programs so they can find the one that matches their unique interests and needs.
Recommended Online MBA Programs
Explore our featured online programs to find the right match for you today.
Ranking Methodology
College Consensus rankings are different. We believe all rankings have their limitations and biases, which is why we’ve developed a consensus approach. For our consensus ranking of the Best One-Year MBA Programs we combine the results of the five of the most respected MBA ranking systems. This gives prospective MBA students a broader view of the best programs available, separate from any particular ranking system’s preferences. Ranking results from each system were weighted equally, averaged, and converted to a score on a 100-point scale to reveal each program’s Consensus Score.
Once we determined the top consensus-ranked MBA programs overall, we narrowed it down to programs that can be complete in close to one year or even less.
Data for our consensus ranking of the Best One-Year MBA Programs was collected from:
We expanded our list this year, so you will find several new programs on the list compared to last year. However, students can be sure that all are prestigious and accelerated degrees.
Summary of the Top 10 Accelerated One-Year MBA Programs
| Rank | School | Accreditation | Tuition | Consensus Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Northwestern University – Kellog School of Management | AACSB | $112,336 | 100 |
| 2. | Cornell University – SC Johnson College of Business | AACSB | $124,922 | 94.2 |
| 3. | Duke University – Fuqua School of Business | AACSB | $100,000 | 92.7 |
| 4. | New York University – Leonard N. Stern School of Business | AACSB | $112,516 | 90.7 |
| 5. | University of Southern California -Marshall School of Business | AACSB | $127,872 | 86.5 |
| 6. | Emory University – Goizueta Business School | AACSB | $110,550 | 83.3 |
| 7. | University of Washington – Michael G. Foster School of Business | AACSB | $97,025 | 81.3 |
| 8. | University of Florida – Warrington College of Business | AACSB | $48,000 | 57.0 |
| 9. | Southern Methodist University – Cox School of Business | AACSB | $63,685 | 52.8 |
| 10. | University of Pittsburgh – Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business | AACSB | $79,500 | 49.95 |
Here is a comprehensive list of the best accelerated one-year MBA programs.
A full-time MBA with an accelerated completion time is available at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management. The one-year Full-Time MBA provides distinct options for earning this top business credential. This program offers extensive possibilities for achieving educational, personal, and professional goals. On-campus MBA students develop as people and learn how to generate growth in organizations.
Full-Time students graduate with a broad-based, agile skill set. They are prepared to lead confidently in the face of challenges and opportunities. Northwester’s one-year MBA Program builds upon business fundamentals. This program gets students back into the workforce with quality skills and knowledge. This one-year MBA will propel careers forward.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 847-491-5279
AACSB Accredited: YES
The SC Johnson College of Business at Cornell University features a good MBA with an accelerated completion time. The one-year MBA features a tight-knit community. The program boasts a unique curriculum with a dual-campus approach. Graduate students are equipped to hit the ground running. These MBA students stand out among colleagues. The program features internships and the excitement of starting new careers.
Johnson’s full-time one-year MBA is STEM-designated. The one-of-a-kind curriculum boasts fully integrated leadership development aspects. Graduate students take advantage of the programming at Cornell Tech in New York City. This one-year degree features a required summer internship. Cornell is the right place for today’s MBA.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 607-255-5820
AACSB Accredited: YES
Duke University features an accelerated MBA at the Fuqua School of Business. In less than a year, Duke’s Accelerated Daytime MBA program builds on students’ prior knowledge and skills to help them develop into new kinds of leaders.
Graduate students who earn master’s degrees in management have a leg up on the competition. Those students skip the business fundamentals and immerse themselves in the electives and experiential learning opportunities that support their goals. All MBA students learn alongside a diverse group of peers. Graduate students develop a new way of working that draws out others’ strengths. MBA graduates become leaders who can inspire businesses to do better while doing what’s best.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 919-684-3913
AACSB Accredited: YES
New York University features a one-year MBA at the Leonard N. Stern School of Business. MBA students immerse themselves in an early-stage technology company in New York. Enrolled students study the value creation model and the founding vision. Program designers show how business metrics are connected to priorities and growth. All MBA students work in partnership with organizations to solve fundamental branding challenges.
NYU’s one-year curriculum features lessons on international branding concepts and frameworks. Graduate students gain valuable consulting skills as they manage complex projects. They can hone their company’s vision with business-leader mentorships. MBA students have access to seasoned executives. NYU’s one-year MBA has it all.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 212-998-4500
AACSB Accredited: YES
The University of Southern California’s Marshall School of Business offers a one-year MBA. Enrolled students can complete this stellar program in twelve months at USC’s Campus in Los Angeles. The USC Marshall MBA degree is perfect for mid-career professionals seeking international leadership positions.
All on-campus MBA students learn in a class size of 55. These students are diverse and globally focused. The average age of graduate participants is 35. Program students enjoy dedicated career development. Marshall provides individualized career development plans for mid-career professionals. This program features some travel for business networking forums and management consulting projects. Be sure to check out this excellent one-year MBA.
Admissions Email: gradadm.usc.edu
Admissions Phone: 213-740–1111
AACSB Accredited: YES
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A full-time one-year MBA is offered at Emory University’s Goizueta Business School. It takes twelve months. It is completed in 365 days. The Goizueta One-Year MBA program provides the theory that can immediately be applied at work. Enrolled students work with real-world clients. They solve real business problems as they study international business abroad. MBA students become leadership coaches as they learn from some of the world’s top business minds.
By the end of their accelerated MBA, students are ready to take on whatever the business world throws at them. One-year MBA students work on case studies for real business clients. Once students complete hands-on leadership training, they tailor academics to their career interests. This degree means business.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 404-727-6036
AACSB Accredited: YES
A full-time one-year MBA is available at the University of Washington’s Michael G. Foster School of Business. Graduate students take their careers to the next level. This Full-time MBA degree can be completed in just twelve months. The Foster MBA experience in Seattle gives MBA students the curriculum and career support they need. Students have access to faculty support that shapes their future.
The UW Foster School of Business prides itself on comprehensive degree programs. Nationally recognized experts deliver its one-year curriculum in their field. Foster’s MBA spans all aspects of today’s business world. The ROI of a Foster MBA goes beyond financial outcomes.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 206-685-2630
AACSB Accredited: YES
The University of Florida provides a full-time one-year MBA at the Warrington College of Business. Program designers have fashioned an MBA experience that is life-changing. Graduate students enrolled in this one-year program made no compromises when selecting the full-time MBA. UF MBA leaders know this decision is one of the most essential choices in academic and professional life.
Graduate students commit to taking time out of their careers to enter a full-time MBA program. They owe it to themselves to consider the UF MBA. The One-Year program allows MBA students with professional and academic experience to benefit from a dedicated staff and faculty. This full-time MBA team with a one-year completion time delivers.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 352-392-1365
AACSB Accredited: YES
Southern Methodist University currently features a one-year MBA through its Cox School of Business. This program is for those headed for success in their current careers but want to get there faster. This is a full-time, 12-month program. SMU’s One-Year MBA at Cox is tailored for early-career professionals.
MBA students looking for a rigorous, personalized experience within an intimate small-school setting will love it. Enrolled students learn in small classes from award-winning instructors with open doors. They connect with MBA students worldwide and dynamic business leaders from Dallas’s Fortune 500 companies. One-year MBA students will gain the skills, confidence, and global alum connections they need to take their careers to the next level.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 800-472-3622
AACSB Accredited: YES
The Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business at the University of Pittsburgh offers an accelerated MBA. This is a highly focused business program. It is designed to offer MBA students the fastest return on their investment. The Accelerated MBA program enables graduate students to complete a Katz MBA full-time in a 12-month format. This format minimizes the time students spend away from the workforce.
Students with extensive post-bachelor professional experience will thrive in this one-year program. They can focus on advancing in their current professional field or industry. The on-campus program begins in early August. It is designed to be completed in three terms, concluding in July. This one-year MBA has it all.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 412-648-1700
AACSB Accredited: YES
Recommended Online MBA Programs
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The Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, provides an excellent full-time one-year MBA. The business school’s curriculum encompasses business knowledge and professional skills. Enrolled students can develop expertise in one of five specialized areas during their final semester.
UT Knoxville’s Full-Time MBA program includes a required summer internship. MBA students can apply the skills and knowledge they learned throughout the program. They also establish business rapport with industry leaders. By the end of this one-year program, business professionals lead on day one of their post-MBA jobs.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 865-974-3251
AACSB Accredited: YES
TCU’s Neeley School of Business provides a full-time one-year MBA. TCU’s accelerated MBA gives students the entire MBA experience in half the time. This program is designed for professionals wanting to advance in their current or closely related career fields. Neeley’s 36-credit-hour curriculum combines core hours with elective hours that complement and complete résumés.
Enrolled students’ electives can focus on specific disciplines, including finance, supply chain, marketing, and management. MBA students can also focus on industries like energy, health care, consulting, real estate, and entrepreneurship. One-year MBA students at TCU have access to excellent professors and a vibrant curriculum.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 817-257-7531
AACSB Accredited: YES
Babson College’s F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business offers a full-time one-year MBA. Graduate students wanting to start a new career will love this degree. Business leaders interested in switching careers or going further in their current organization will also benefit. The one-year on-campus MBA will help graduate students reach their career goals.
This excellent on-campus degree arms MBA students with a ranked MBA in business leadership. Entrepreneurial leadership skills help enrolled students make an impact in business, their community, and the world. Many partner organizations bring their real-world strategies to class annually. This one-year on-campus MBA offers a lot to today’s graduate students.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 800-488-4512
AACSB Accredited: YES
The Smeal College of Business at Penn State provides an excellent accelerated MBA. The Early Career One-Year MBA from the Smeal College of Business is customizable. The STEM-designated program is perfect for current undergrads or working professionals. Students with up to five years of work experience will thrive in the program.
MBA students with Smeal as their business partner sharpen their business acumen. These learners earn their MBA credentials that can prepare them for career advancement. The nine-month format at Penn State is featured on the University Park campus. A world-class faculty, accelerated completion time, and STEM designation? This stellar degree is an excellent choice.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 814-863-0474
AACSB Accredited: YES
The University of Miami provides an excellent one-year MBA through its Herbert Business School. Full-Time MBA students come from diverse backgrounds. They present various academic and professional experiences. They also have one thing in common. MBA graduates have the drive to become global business leaders.
Miami Herbert’s Accelerated MBA allows enrolled students to fast-track their management careers through hands-on opportunities in a city that shapes the future of business. This excellent Accelerated MBA enables eligible students to earn their diploma in less than twelve months. The one-year MBA is ideal for candidates with a degree in business or a related discipline. Students seek advanced business expertise that propels their careers in a short amount of time.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 305-284-4154
AACSB Accredited: YES
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The Carl H. Lindner College of Business at the University of Cincinnati provides an excellent full-time one-year MBA. The on-campus degree is uniquely designed to fit graduate students’ specific needs. Forty-eight credit hours of advanced business courses make up this degree. There are ten credit hours of foundation classes and twenty-six credit hours of core classes. These credits give students a strong foundation in business and management. From this foundation, students choose twelve credit hours of electives.
This one-year program is perfect for recent graduates and those with relevant work experience. Qualified applicants can waive the ten credit hours of foundation courses. The program’s twelve credit hours of electives can customize the MBA to fit specific needs by earning one of over twenty graduate certificates. This degree has it all.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 513-556-4335
AACSB Accredited: YES
If you are looking for a prestigious and accessible MBA program, the College of Charleston is a great place to look. Their School of Business is AACSB accredited and offers a one-year MBA program. The program is built with students’ success in mind. Its accelerated program is rigorous and rewarding. In one year, students can be back in the job force with the most identifiable marker of business leadership under their belt.
This MBA program in the heart of Charleston, South Carolina is known for its esteemed education. The 39-credit hours are designed to improve students’ leadership and teamwork skills. Each graduate emerges as a global leader.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 843-953-5614
AACSB Accredited: YES
Pepperdine’s Graziadio Business School provides a top one-year MBA. Graduate students can advance or switch careers quicker with the business school’s Accelerated Full-Time MBA. Enrolled learners within this intensive one-year full-time MBA re-enter the marketplace with a master’s in business from an elite university. They enjoy increased earning potential.
This program features accelerated MBA degree options. Candidates with prior academic and work experience also benefit from waived courses. Many Full-Time MBA students at Pepperdine’s Graziadio School qualify for the 12- or 15-month MBA option. Pepperdine’s accelerated MBA completion format features an experience-driven curriculum. It is taught in small classes with immersive study-abroad opportunities worldwide. Take advantage of this one-year MBA.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 310-568-5535
AACSB Accredited: YES
A top one-year MBA is delivered at Hult International Business School. Enrolled students can accelerate their careers in international business. They take part in one intensive year with a transformative campus experience. Program leaders immerse MBA students in diversity and take them across the globe.
MBA students in this one-year program develop the skills most in-demand with employers worldwide. They can make an impact from their first day on the job. The curriculum allows students to learn business by doing it. MBA students specialize in their chosen areas, so they graduate with effective mindsets, practical skills, and knowledge to transform their lives and careers.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 617-746-1990
AACSB Accredited: YES
An accelerated one-year MBA is delivered at the University of Kentucky’s Gatton College of Business and Economics. Enrolled students experience an MBA program that accelerates their career goals. UK’s Full-Time MBA program is rich with quality lessons from the field’s top instructors and researchers.
Aspiring MBA students are prepared to learn and apply business functions from day one. They reap the ultimate return on investment. The program is guided by faculty members vested in candidates’ success. Kentucky’s curriculum provides MBA students with the knowledge, tools, and skillsets to be impactful managers and leaders in chosen career paths.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 859-257-2000
AACSB Accredited: YES
Recommended Online MBA Programs
Explore our featured online programs to find the right match for you today.
Deep in the Pacific Northwest, students can find an accelerated MBA with a customizable curriculum. The Lundquist College of Business at the University of Oregon offers an accelerated MBA degree program that can be completed in fifteen months.
The 49-credit program offers four different specializations for students to tailor their studies. Specializations include: sports business, innovation and entrepreneurship, finance and securities analysis, and sustainable business practices. These four areas are birthed out of specific strongholds within the College. This allows students to dive deep into important topics, create connections, and drive innovation within these sectors.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 541-346-5129
AACSB Accredited: YES
The University of Mississippi features a top-notch one-year MBA through its School of Business Administration. Bloomberg Businessweek has ranked this on-campus program as a Top 75. The Ole Miss Campus MBA Program is a highly valued business degree. It allows students to earn their credentials in a traditional classroom setting.
This 36-hour program features a comprehensive curriculum. World-renowned instructors teach it. Students can enter the program in the summer or fall. Students enrolling on a full-time basis can expect to graduate in 12 months. Students with full-time jobs should register for the part-time track. This one-year MBA is a challenging program that encourages teamwork and networking.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 662-915-7474
AACSB Accredited: YES
The Atkinson Graduate School of Management offers business students a top one-year MBA program from Willamette University. Some might wonder if an accelerated program has a watered-down curriculum and experience. Willamette shows that a quick program doesn’t mean it is a shallow program. Students should expect a rigorous experience within this 12-month program. Then, after one quick year, graduates are rewarded with a degree with benefits far into the future.
This program is intentional about experiential learning. And what sets this one-year MBA apart is that they have pathways for students with and without business experience. This is truly a program for everyone.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 503-370-6167
AACSB Accredited: YES
A full-time one-year MBA is available at the University of South Carolina. The Darla Moore School of Business is famous for its undergraduate and graduate programs. This one-year degree emphasizes innovative, experiential learning. The program is committed to producing superlatively prepared graduates.
Highly qualified and motivated MBA students will enjoy the program’s robust curriculum and seasoned instructors. Enrolled students make choices to best fit their current needs and long-term goals. This one-year accelerated MBA allows graduate students to select the functional specializations that align with their interests and career goals.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 803-777-4243
AACSB Accredited: YES
The Rawls College of Business Administration at Texas Tech University is a highly esteemed business school situated in West Texas. Business students with their eyes on leadership are drawn to Texas Tech for a quick but rigorous MBA program. Their STEM MBA has an accelerated format that allows students to graduate in 12 or 24 months.
This 42-credit hour program is specifically for professionals with a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math background who want to step into business leadership roles. It marries business and technology principles so graduates are prepared for management roles in any sector they choose.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 806-742-2787
AACSB Accredited: YES
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The Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business at Purdue University offers professionals an elite MBA program on an accelerated timeline. This Purdue MBA program is STEM-focused and can be completed in just one year. MBA programs that combine a quick pace with a highly accredited curriculum prove that students do not have to sacrifice quality for speed.
The Daniels School of Business understands that our world is built on technology. So, they focused this program around the tech leaders who lead our economies. Students will complete 44 hours of curriculum, build their communication and leadership skills, and participate in experiential learning opportunities. Students quickly graduate with a top business leadership credential.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 765-494-2600
AACSB Accredited: YES
Check out the University of Detroit Mercy if you want a top accelerated MBA. Their College of Business Administration is AACSB accredited and ranked among the top business schools. They understand that MBA programs must be flexible enough to be tailored to business students’ current and future needs. Students in the Detroit Mercy MBA can choose different formats, campuses, curriculum, and timelines. If desired, students can complete this top program in just one year.
The 33 hours of coursework in the accelerated MBA program covers all the major topics that today’s leaders need to explore. Students dive into management, technology, finance, and more. This program is intentional about providing value to every student.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 313-993-1245
AACSB Accredited: YES
Many students might think they must sacrifice preferences when looking for an MBA, but Appalachian State has a program that checks the boxes. The AACSB-accredited Walker College of Business offers a highly esteemed MBA at an affordable price and accelerated timeline. You can tell that Appalachian State is committed to accessibility.
The full-time program is comprised of 36 credits and offers seven concentrations. Concentration options include:
- Cybersecurity,
- Supply Chain,
- Human Resources,
- Economics,
- Sustainable Business,
- Business Analytics, and
- International Business.
This on-campus program allows professionals to study business and management and get back into the workforce at the quickest possible pace.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 828-262-2130
AACSB Accredited: YES
Professionals look to MBA programs to hasten their climb to business leadership. An accelerated degree makes the timeline even shorter. But students must not forfeit excellence in education for speed. This makes the one-year MBA program at Kent State University a great option. The Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship is AACSB accredited. This means that each student in Kent State’s MBA gets one of the best business educations from around the world.
Students in the full-time, on-campus, accelerated program get a deep dive into business management. The 37-credit course includes professional development, career coaching, and the choice of six concentrations. This program is a gem.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 330-672-2444
AACSB Accredited: YES
A one-year MBA is available at Louisiana State University’s E. J. Ourso College of Business. This LSU Flores MBA Program provides graduate students with a flexible path. This path allows professionals to advance their careers. This is a nationally-ranked program, and it helps unlock an MBA student’s full potential as a business leader.
Enrolled students enjoy a robust curriculum centered on application-based education. Business school leaders provide students with a foundation to succeed in the business world. MBA students get the tools to see a valuable return on investment. The Flores MBA Program rigorously prepares graduate students to enter the business world with a one-year advanced degree from a premier university.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 225-578-2311
AACSB Accredited: YES
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The G. Brint Ryan College of Business at the University of Texas understands that the timeline of an MBA program can have tremendous consequences. That is why they offer multiple programs in order to cater to many different lifestyles and needs. Among their programs is an MBA in Business Management, offering a top business education and allowing students to graduate in 11 short months.
This fast-paced program is only open for a select cohort. The intensive program focuses on team collaboration, industry interaction, and experiential learning. Students emerge as change agents ready to lead in today’s businesses.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 940-565-2383
AACSB Accredited: YES
The Spears School of Business at Oklahoma State University is focused on empowering business students. One way they do that is by providing top-notch management degrees that can be tailored to students’ needs. Among their foundational offerings is a full-time MBA program. This campus-based program consists of 33-36 credits, offers multiple specializations, and can be completed in 12 short months.
The Spears School offers a collaborative environment, a world-class curriculum, and affordable tuition. They are not only recognized for excellence in the classroom, but students boast a job placement rate of over 98 percent after graduation. This program sits high on the charts for return on investment.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 405-744-6368
AACSB Accredited: YES
In the field of entrepreneurship and innovation, people and organizations are constantly pushing the envelope. Clemson University does it with its full-time MBA in Entrepreneurship and Innovation. The AACSB-accredited degree is marked with opportunity from start to finish. Clemson’s MBA is a prestigious program with a rich curriculum at an accelerated pace. Students can graduate in just one year from starting.
The College of Business at Clemson doesn’t cut corners in this fast-paced MBA program. The curriculum is full of foundational business and management courses, and students even have the opportunity to complete an international internship. With innovation at its core, Clemson’s accelerated MBA is one that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 864-656-3195
AACSB Accredited: YES
Lehigh University’s College of Business understands that business professionals seek a way to advance their careers and gain a competitive advantage. Because of this, Lehigh offers many master’s programs, including their One-year, full-time MBA program. This MBA degree was designed to accelerate a student’s career growth.
The 47-53 credit accelerated MBA program offers more opportunities than some two-year programs. This MBA offers four specializations, a STEM option, a mentoring team, a consulting practicum, professional development, and global immersion. They also offer a dual degree opportunity in Public Health. Lehigh did not neglect program depth for speed.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 610-758-4450
AACSB Accredited: YES
The AACSB-accredited Richard A. Chaifetz School of Business at Saint Louis University is committed to developing tomorrow’s business leaders. It stands on a foundation of business excellence and the University’s strong Jesuit mission. Among their 21 business degree offerings is a One-Year MBA degree. This accelerated program is STEM-certified with a data analytics focus.
MBA students don’t just learn concepts at Saint Louis University; they explore solutions. Because business is global, they include an international business immersion in this quick-paced program. Students get to graduate from this top MBA program with in-demand skills and hands-on experience under their belts.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 314-977-2500
AACSB Accredited: YES
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If you are looking for an accelerated MBA program from a top business school, check out Drexel University’s Bennett S. LeBow College of Business. The LeBow CoB has a long history of experience-based business education. Their intentionality and attention to detail can be found in every part of the college, from the research to the facilities. Within that same spirit, they have many MBA degree offerings, including an accelerated MBA degree.
Their accelerated full-time MBA is a rigorous degree that can be completed in 12, 15, or 18 months. Even though this program is on a condensed schedule, it is not a minimized experience. This program explores cutting-edge topics and offers a variety of concentrations, including STEM-designated options.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 1-800-2-DREXEL
AACSB Accredited: YES
An exemplary one-year MBA is featured at Florida International University’s Alvah H. Chapman Jr. Graduate School of Business. Graduate students within this program gain a deeper understanding of global business issues. They can study abroad or elect an internship experience at international and multinational companies. FIU Business reflects the world’s diversity. On-campus MBA students represent over 130 countries. The faculty members of the business school hail from 40 countries.
FIU is based in Miami. Its location offers learners all the advantages of an urban, multicultural, and ethnically rich center. Miami is a business hub that connects the two Americas. Graduate students benefit from its being the regional headquarters for multinational corporations. This one-year degree is a top choice.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 305-348-0148
AACSB Accredited: YES
If you are a resident of New York, then you understand the prestige and impact of the SUNY System. With over 60 colleges and universities, the State University of New York System offers programs for everyone. If you are looking for a top business school with an accelerated MBA program, Binghamton University’s School of Management has a great option.
Binghamton’s School of Management provides a One-Year STEM MBA program. The curriculum covers all the important foundational business courses and allows students to tailor their studies with a specialization. Additionally, this program is open to students without a business or accounting background. The School breaks down barriers to make this top program accessible for the state’s highly motivated business students.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 607-777-2151
AACSB Accredited: YES
Another top one-year MBA program can be found in the SUNY System at the University at Albany’s Massry School of Business. This School’s focus is to serve as a gateway of opportunity. One way they do that is with their advanced business education. Among their seven available master’s programs is their MBA. This degree is AACSB accredited and known to offer excellent business management education. Students can choose to complete this degree in various formats and timelines, including a one-year track.
The full-time, one-year MBA at Albany is an accelerated path to students’ career goals. MBA students will gain a strong foundation in business management and then branch off into concentration courses. Concentrations are offered in information systems and business analysis, marketing, HRIS, entrepreneurship, finance, and cybersecurity.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 518-442-3980
AACSB Accredited: YES
The Sykes College of Business at the University of Tampa provides an MBA with an accelerated completion time. This full-time/day program is designed for accelerated completion with peer students. Enrolled students take between eight and fourteen credit hours per semester of classes. On-campus students in the program can complete the 40 hours in as few as one year.
The University of Tampa’s on-campus MBA program helps students develop the advanced strategic mindset retained by successful executives. UT’s one-year Master of Business Administration program is one of Florida’s most established and exclusive degrees. MBA students will thrive within this business leadership program.
Admissions Email: [email protected]
Admissions Phone: 813-253-6211
AACSB Accredited: YES
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Explore our featured online programs to find the right match for you today.
What is an Accelerated One-Year Master of Business Administration?
Graduate students seeking this excellent business degree can pursue an MBA in general management. This program gives them a broad overview of many of the most critical aspects of management and leadership. Some MBA students decide to specialize in a major. So, besides the general core coursework, they take several courses in a concentrated business area. These topics can include Strategy, Accounting, Economics, Operations, Finance, Management Science, Marketing, and Managing Organizations.
MBA graduates often work in high-level leadership roles in the private and public sectors. The expedited nature of the one-year MBA allows graduate students to reach their professional goals in less time than a traditional program allows.
Two-Year vs. One-Year
Traditionally, the one-year MBA has been popular outside the United States, where the two-year MBA remains the default business credential. But times are changing. Many of the nation’s best business schools now offer one-year options for students looking to expedite their business education.
In the interest of cost-effectiveness and flexibility, MBA applicants are pursuing programs that can accelerate their professional and personal success.
The Graduate Management Admission Council’s (GMAC) Prospective Students Survey reveals that for the last two years, one-year global demand has topped two-year programs. Almost half of all MBA candidates consider a one-year program a viable option. This increase is up from less than 40% just two years ago.
Should You Consider an Accelerated One-Year MBA Degree?
Pros
Cons
Here are some key benefits of the program:
1) A One-Year MBA Could Be More Cost-Effective
A business degree that takes half the time to complete should cost less. One of the essential components of the one-year MBA is cost-effectiveness. This aspect can be found in lower tuition fees and the overall running cost of the on-campus program.
Tuition
For example, a traditional full-time MBA can cost a lot in tuition and expenses, easily spanning from $40K to $100K. It is common for business schools to offer substantial discounts and more affordable tuition rates for their one-year programs.
Cost of Living
In some instances, the tuition per year can be higher for a one-year MBA (although the total cost of the degree is still cheaper). While the tuition rate may be higher for the one-year program, students will save on the cost of living during that extra year they do not have to pay for as a full-time student. Living expenses include accommodation, food, and travel. You significantly adds to the overall cost of any program. Halving the time students spend studying can produce significant savings.
Some communities are more expensive to live in than others. The cost of living can vary based on what part of the country you are in. Lower living expenses translate into added affordability. Many business schools offer cost-of-living calculators to help program researchers estimate investment returns.
2) One-Year MBA Students Can Quickly Restart their Careers
MBA students who choose one-year programs can take advantage of getting quickly back into their careers. Everyone in business leadership knows MBA degrees are great career boosters. Taking time away from work to study is a costly pause in earning potential. Many prospective students express concern over an MBA delaying attractive job opportunities, according to GMAC research.
The quicker business professionals return to work, the faster they’ll start seeing a return on their investment. Moreover, most grads from the latest graduation class are employed three months after completing their MBA. Many graduates receive, on average, a significant salary increase.
Many MBA students want to combine their careers and study life. Some graduate students pursuing an accelerated MBA will supplement their degrees with online learning and weekend classes. These less-than-traditional approaches to graduate school ensure students can continue their careers in real time.
Experienced and active professionals may want to consider an Executive MBA. It allows them to maintain their careers while studying for qualifications that enhance their prospects.
3) One-Year MBA Programs Make Career Changes Possible
Many graduate students in business make significant changes to their careers after completing a one-year MBA. The one-year MBA is synonymous with career acceleration. Many business students experience significant career changes after completing the program.
MBA graduates often make at least one major job transition during their careers. This switch may include a shift in the industry, job function, or location. One-year MBA students can significantly transform their careers due to the program’s effect on professional opportunities.
4) One-Year MBA Students Enjoy a Rigorous and Focused Curriculum
Just because a program takes less time doesn’t mean it suffers from comprehensibility. One-year programs are more condensed. But students get all the content. MBA students seeking this format have the same rigorous core courses that sharpen their economic and business skill sets. One-year MBA students then have more immediate access to focus on their careers.
Many top curriculums utilize case study methods to prepare students for the business world. MBA students can be exposed to hundreds of actual cases. Instead of basic theoretical lectures, one-year MBA students benefit from an action-oriented approach that reflects the issues in the business environment. Students with exposure to real-world scenarios will thrive after they graduate. One-year programs feature dynamic techniques where graduate students are fully immersed for twelve months. These students can maximize results over a shorter time.
5) One-Year MBA Students Make Connections that Last Entire Careers
Do not think that less time spent with classmates means bonds will suffer. There is an intensive nature within a one-year program. Enrolled students quickly form a camaraderie that keeps them connected. The class duration is over quicker in a twelve-month program. But, the connections MBA students make over the year can last a lifetime.
Some business schools offer small student numbers per cohort. Smaller class sizes can breed a more intimate atmosphere. Students living on campus with classmates often develop a cohesive and tight-knit network of students.
Once graduated, one-year MBA students join an alum network of thousands of business school grads. This network provides a wealth of knowledge and opportunity across many countries and industries.
How Can I Become Eligible for an Accelerated One-Year MBA Program?
The eligibility requirements for one-year MBA programs vary by school. These prerequisites often include the following:
A Bachelor’s Degree in Business
An undergraduate business degree or a related field is a standard prerequisite for acceptance into a one-year MBA program. This criterion is more of a preference at some business schools than a requirement. Many excellent programs welcome graduate students who lack a business education. In these cases, be prepared to take some prep courses in business that bring you up to speed in topics like accounting, statistics, and finance.
A Minimum GPA Score
Because of the one-year MBA’s intensive and accelerated nature, the minimum GPA is typically demanding. Expect programs to expect an undergrad GPA of 3.4 or 3.5. Mid-career professionals can substitute a stellar GPA with extensive work experience.
Academic Transcripts
In addition to a solid GPA, business schools will request sealed academic transcripts from all previous undergraduate and graduate institutions. Admission officers will check your overall academic ability.
Letters of Recommendation
Instructors, mentors, supervisors, and other figures familiar with your academic or professional ability can write letters of recommendation. These letters are standard requirements for graduate schools. Business schools typically ask for two to three letters.
Statement of Purpose
This eligibility component is a personal essay. It introduces you to the admission committee and explains your academic and professional goals. An effective statement of purpose shows how a candidate can be an asset to the school they are applying to.
In addition to the above-listed components, a business school may ask applicants to write one or two short essays on specific topics. Fewer schools require candidates to submit GMAT scores. They will accept them if offered. A high GMAT or GRE score still improves one’s chances of acceptance.
How Affordable is an Accelerated One-Year MBA Program?
A one-year MBA degree can often be more affordable compared to longer programs. The condensed nature of a one-year program means that you will spend less time in school, resulting in reduced tuition fees and living expenses. This can translate into significant cost savings, making it a more cost-effective option for many individuals. Additionally, since you will be able to re-enter the job market sooner, you can start earning a salary earlier, minimizing the opportunity cost of being out of the workforce for an extended period. However, it’s important to note that affordability can vary depending on the specific program and institution you choose.
Expenses
Within an MBA program, the number of credits stays pretty consistent, between 30 and 35 credit hours. This remains true for accelerated programs as well. Thus, the tuition per credit hour can be similar in nature. But, in addition to tuition fees, several other fees may be added to an MBA program. These fees can vary depending on the institution and program you choose, but they can greatly increase the out-of-pocket expenses for students.
The additional fees can include:
- Technology Fee.
- Health Services Fee.
- Advising Services Fee.
- Recreational Sports Fee.
- Library Fee.
- Career Services/Writing Center/Administrative Services Fee
- Transportation Fee.
- Student Center Complex Fee.
While these fees are applied toward important services for all students, they can really add up. These fees are generally charged per semester, thus making an accelerated program much more frugal.
An MBA degree can run students between $15,000 to over $100,000 for the program. US News reported that while some full-time MBA students can pay almost double because of expenses other than base tuition. One great way to increase affordability is to minimize a program’s timeline. With the added salary boost that an MBA can give and the affordability of an accelerated timeline, a one-year MBA can give students the best of both worlds.
Debt
“After completing my MBA program, it took ten years to finish paying off my student loans.” – MBA Grad.
While some MBA students might be able to pay for their program in cash or get their employer to pay for the degree, many students have to look for loans. Debt from a master’s degree program can compound over time due to several factors.
If you have taken out loans to finance your master’s program, interest may start accruing on those loans while you are still in school or during the grace period after graduation. Unpaid interest can accumulate and be added to the principal balance, resulting in a larger loan amount to repay. This is one great attribute of an accelerated MBA. Graduates are faster into the workforce with a higher salary, allowing them to pay off their loans quicker.
Loan repayment timelines, loan consolidation terms, and career and income factors can also play a part. It is important to carefully consider the financial implications of taking on debt for a master’s program and develop a repayment plan to minimize the long-term impact. Exploring options like scholarships, grants, part-time work, or accelerated programs can help mitigate the need for excessive borrowing.
Affordability of the Top Accelerated One-Year MBA Programs
The top 1-year MBA programs are available for around $20,000 to over $100,000.
| School | Affordability |
|---|---|
| Northwestern University | $$$$ |
| Cornell University | $$$$ |
| Duke University | $$$$ |
| New York University | $$$$ |
| University of Southern California | $$$$ |
| Emory University | $$$$ |
| University of Washington | $$$ |
| University of Florida | $ |
| Southern Methodist University | $$$ |
| University of Pittsburgh | $$ |
| University of Tennessee, Knoxville | $ |
| Texas Christian University | $$$ |
| Babson College | $$$$ |
| Penn State | $$$ |
| University of Miami | $$$ |
| University of Cincinnati | $$ |
| College of Charleston | $$ |
| Pepperdine University | $$$ |
| Hult International Business School | $$$ |
| University of Kentucky | $$ |
| University of Oregon | $$$ |
| University of Mississippi | $$ |
| Willamette University | $$$ |
| University of South Carolina | $$ |
| Texas Tech University | $$ |
| Purdue University | $$ |
| University of Detroit Mercy | $$ |
| Appalachian State University | $ |
| Kent State University | $ |
| Louisiana State University | $$ |
| University of North Texas | $ |
| Oklahoma State University | $ |
| Clemson University | $$ |
| Lehigh University | $$$ |
| Saint Louis University | $$ |
| Drexel University | $$$ |
| Florida International University | $$ |
| Binghamton University SUNY | $$ |
| University at Albany | $$ |
| University of Tampa | $$ |
What Careers are Available to Accelerated MBA Graduates?
One-year MBA graduates have a wide range of career opportunities available to them. The MBA degree provides a strong foundation in business and management. It equips graduates with the important skills and critical knowledge to pursue various roles in different industries. Some common career paths for one-year MBA graduates include:
Consulting
Annual Salary: $94,904
Many graduates opt for careers in management consulting. This is a great role where they can apply their problem-solving skills and strategic thinking to help organizations improve their performance. Management consulting is a dynamic and influential field that offers advice and solutions to organizations seeking to improve performance and overcome challenges.
Consultants bring expertise in various areas, such as strategy, operations, finance, and human resources. They work closely with clients to analyze complex problems, identify growth opportunities, and develop actionable plans. With their analytical skills, industry knowledge, and problem-solving abilities, management consultants help businesses optimize their processes, enhance efficiency, and achieve their goals. They provide valuable insights, implement changes, and guide organizations through transformational journeys, significantly impacting their overall success and competitiveness in the market.
Finance
Annual Salary: $100,176
The finance industry offers diverse roles, such as investment banking, corporate finance, and financial analysis, where MBA graduates can leverage their financial acumen. Finance management is critical to any organization’s success, as it involves effectively managing financial resources and making strategic decisions to ensure financial stability and growth. It includes a range of activities, including budgeting, financial planning, cash flow management, investment analysis, and risk assessment.
Finance managers are crucial in monitoring and analyzing financial data, providing accurate reports and forecasts, and advising on key financial decisions. By maintaining financial discipline, optimizing resource allocation, and mitigating risks, finance management enables businesses to maximize profitability, make informed investment choices, and navigate economic uncertainties. It is a key driver of sustainability and long-term financial health for organizations across industries.
Marketing and Brand Management
Annual Salary: $72,161
With their strong business insight and understanding of consumer behavior, MBA graduates can pursue marketing, brand management, and market research careers. Marketing and brand management are integral components of a successful business strategy. Marketing involves the activities and tactics employed to promote products or services, attract customers, and drive sales. It encompasses market research, advertising, pricing, distribution, and customer relationship management.
On the other hand, brand management involves:
- Developing a unique brand positioning.
- Crafting a compelling brand story.
- Ensuring consistent brand communication across various channels.
Effective marketing and brand management strategies help businesses differentiate themselves from competitors, establish credibility, foster customer loyalty, and ultimately drive business growth.
Entrepreneurship
Annual Salary: $69,119
The one-year MBA program can provide aspiring entrepreneurs with the necessary skills to start their own ventures or join startups. Entrepreneurship is the spirit of innovation, risk-taking, and business creation. It identifies opportunities, develops ideas, and turns them into successful ventures.
Entrepreneurship is an important driver of economic growth, job creation, and societal progress. It fosters innovation, encourages competition, and brings new products and services to market. Successful entrepreneurs possess a combination of skills, including leadership, adaptability, strategic thinking, and salesmanship. They navigate uncertainties, learn from failures, and embrace continuous learning and growth.
Graduates can pursue leadership and management roles in various industries, overseeing operations, strategy, and business development. It’s important to note that the specific career options may vary depending on individual interests, prior work experience, and the industry in which they wish to specialize.
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