Top Affordable Hybrid MBA Programs For Working Students

Why Choose a Hybrid MBA?

Here, we’ll feature the top 10 affordable hybrid MBA programs. We’ll also discuss what makes them worthwhile, what your funding options are, and how to choose the right one.

What are hybrid MBA programs, you ask? Here are their typical characteristics that make them attractive:

Combine online courses and in-person sessions.

Candidates complete the didactic courses via synchronous and/or asynchronous classes. Then, their in-person sessions can include workshops and residencies, among others.

These programs use a learning management system to deliver courses. Canvas, Moodle, and Blackboard are popular platforms.

Offer flexibility for working professionals and other types of learners

Candidates are usually working professionals, parents and caregivers, and other busy individuals. The flexible schedules and convenient access enable them to learn while they earn.

Provide a more cost-effective option.

Candidates enjoy more affordable tuition and fees, too, thanks to online rates. You’ll also enjoy reduced transportation, books, and other on-campus costs.

Did you know that an MBA degree costs $61,800 on average? But distance learning MBA programs only cost $35,000 on average.

Boost your career advancement prospects.

Candidates develop sought-after skills including leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving. Indeed, MBA degree holders make up about 40% of C-suite positions.

Such are the wonderful benefits that an MBA degree brings that it’s the most popular graduate degree. So, earn an MBA degree today and enjoy its benefits tomorrow, so to speak.

What Makes a Hybrid MBA Affordable and Worthwhile?

Not every hybrid MBA has affordable cost and, thus, offers accessible business education. Tepper’s hybrid MBA program, for example, has a $149,000+ price tag.

If you want to find affordable hybrid MBA programs, look for these characteristics:

Tuition costs and value per credit

The program must have competitive tuition and fees in the first place. But look beyond the per-credit or per-semester cost, too. Consider the value of business education – is it widely recognized in the industry?

Financial aid availability

Scholarships, grants, and employer tuition assistance programs are common. Many programs also offer military and veteran education benefits and work-study options.

Of course, the more financial aid you get, the less your out-of-pocket costs. You’re then more likely to complete the program and enjoy higher returns.

ROI and salary outcomes for graduates

The returns on investment (ROI) for MBA holders vary. But the average ROI is 186% over 10 years, and it’s significantly higher for prestigious programs. Stanford’s 10-year ROI, for example, is 325% while it’s 320% for Harvard.

Earning an MBA degree can also result in a $45,000 salary increase, on average. MBA graduates earn $115,000/per year on average or $4.110 million in their lifetime.

For reference, business and financial occupations earned $80,920/year in median wages.

Accreditation and school reputation

Regional accreditation for universities offering hybrid MBA programs is a must. Look for programmatic accreditation, too, because it means quality business education.

The AACSB is the gold standard. But ACBSP, EQUIS, or AMBA accreditation is also acceptable.

Check if the program itself is widely recognized among employers. Prestigious programs carry more weight, so to speak, in employment.

Top 10 Affordable Hybrid MBA Programs for Working Students

All featured programs have AACSB accreditation, the gold standard for business schools worldwide.

Ohio State University

If you’re interested in an excellent hybrid MBA for working students, consider OSU’s program. The Working Professional MBA program requires at least two years of work experience. Once admitted, candidates have access to online and on-campus resources.

This is a 48-credit program consisting of 11 core courses and 21 electives. Candidates can complete it in 2-2.5 years.

Format: Online courses and in-person sessions. Online classes include live synchronous sessions.
Estimated tuition: $29,220/year (in-state); $29,820/year (out-of-state)
Notable features:
- Flexible scheduling suitable for working professionals
- One-on-one coaching, job fairs, and other services
- Experiential learning opportunities (e.g., Global Business Expeditions)

Arkansas State University

A-State offers among the top hybrid MBA programs for managers and executives. Candidates are encouraged to “network, share, and grow”.

The program offers 11 concentrations, such as Business Analytics, Finance, and Retail. The hybrid MBA consists of 38 credits with a part-time format. Candidates can also pursue a Healthcare EMBA (44 credits).

Format: Online courses and one in-person, on-campus session every month
Estimated tuition: $48,650 total
Notable features:
- Cohort model with candidates from diverse backgrounds
- In-person sessions promote immersive learning and networking

University of Washington

UW offers among the best nationally-ranked yet low-cost MBA programs. Working professionals say that it supports their business education journey so well.

The 62-credit program features an intensive curriculum of core courses and business electives. Time-to-completion is about 21 months (i.e., six quarters, summer breaks).

Format: 95% online classes and 5% in-person immersions, usually at the start of the quarter
Estimated tuition: $96,000-$99,000 for all students, total cost of attendance
Notable features:
- Strong career outcomes
- Effective career management support

Western Illinois University

If it’s schools offering the best hybrid MBA degrees you’re seeking, consider WIU. This is a 33-credit program that can be completed in one year. But its accelerated format means candidates must be self-motivated and fast learners.

Format: 75% asynchronous modules and 25% in-person meetings
Estimated tuition: About $24,00o total
Notable features:
- Provides maximum flexibility while also promoting in-person interactions
- Concentrations available (e.g., Accounting, Business Analytics, and Information Systems)
- Interchangeable course formats (i.e., online, on-campus, or hybrid)

Wake Forest University

WFU’s part-time MBA for professionals features a 45-credit curriculum. Candidates progress through the program as a cohort over five semesters. The program has a 20-month completion period.

Format: 40% asynchronous online classes and 60% in-person sessions, usually on Saturdays
Estimated tuition: About $81,900 total
Notable features:
- Team-based learning with cross-disciplinary core courses
- Optional Global Immersion elective
- Concentrations available (e.g., Strategy and Leadership, Project Management, and Finance)

Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Consider SEOSU if you’re looking for MBA programs with flexible schedules. The program features a 30-credit curriculum and an accelerated format. Candidates can earn the MBA degree in about 12 months.

Candidates choose from more than 15 concentrations. Choices include Human Resources, Data Analytics, and Strategic Communication. The program even offers unusual concentrations like Native American Leadership and Aerospace Logistics.

Format: Asynchronous classes and optional in-person sessions
Estimated tuition: $11,400 total (Flat tuition for all students)
Notable features:
- No GMAT required for admission. GPA and work experience required.
- Challenging capstone requirement

University of Wisconsin

UW’s two-year MBA program can be completed on a part-time basis. Candidates can earn the degree in 2-5 years, depending on their enrollment. The program has a 44-credit curriculum consisting of core and specialization courses.

Format: Weekly online classes and one weekend in-person, on-campus session per month
Estimated tuition: $1,700/credit plus fees (Total of $80,000-$83,000)
Notable features:
- Ranked as among the top 20 part-time MBAs in the country
- Cohort-based, team-focused learning format
- Badge-based electives (e.g., Financial Insights and Customer Insights)

East Carolina University

ECU’s MBA program offers low costs and high quality, meaning it’s a best value program. Candidates gain not only a quality business education but a supportive network. The program consists of 11 classes that can be completed in two years.

If you want an accelerated program, consider the immersive one‑year MBA pathway. Candidates complete didactic courses and a regional internship.

Format: Online courses and in-person activities
Estimated tuition: About $1,250/credit (in-state); $3,450/credit (out-of-state)
Notable features:
- Take 1-5 courses per semester, depending on your preference
- Streamlined admissions

Fayetteville State University

FSU – Fayetteville offers its 36-credit MBA program for working professionals and others. There’s a strong emphasis on real-world applications and adaptability. Candidates can complete it in 12-72 months, depending on their pace.

Format: Online courses and in-person sessions. Courses are in 16- and 18-week formats.
Estimated tuition: About $9,000 (in-state); $21,000 (out-of-state) total
Notable features:
- Low cost but delivers on high-quality business education
- 12 concentrations available (e.g., Business Intelligence & Data Analytics)

New Mexico State University

NMSU’s MBA program features a cohort-based program with a two-year time-to-completion.

Format: Asynchronous courses, one weekly live Zoom session, and optional in-person activities
Estimated tuition: About $444/credit plus additional course fees $250/credit). Military discounts available.
Notable features:
- Strong emphasis on collaborations
- Concentrations available (e.g., Health Services Management and Information Systems)

How to Choose the Right Program for You

Every featured hybrid MBA program offers the best value in affordability and quality. But not every program will align with your interests, resources, and goals.

With that said, here are the steps to choose the right hybrid MBA program for yourself.

Consider your schedule and learning style.

What’s your current schedule, including your personal and professional commitments? How much time can you set aside for your studies, if ever? What’s the recommended weekly commitment in the MBA programs you’re considering? What’s the delivery format (e.g., synchronous or asynchronous)?

Once you have the answers, you can make an informed choice. Choose the program that fits in with your schedule and learning style.

Compare tuition and fees.

First, review the total cost of every program. Total cost means the tuition and compulsory fees, technology charges, and other costs. Watch out for hidden costs, too.

Then, consider the hybrid MBA financial aid options. The more options you have, the better for your pockets.

Look for strong student support.

The best online and in-person MBA programs provide effective student support services. Online students need them more than their on-campus counterparts. Their geographical distance from their professors and peers means studying in isolation.

Academic advising, access to online libraries, and tech support are a must. Look for career counseling, writing, and job placement assistance services, too.

Check accreditation and program length.

Again, regional and programmatic accreditations are a must. Check if the program’s duration is to your liking, too. Accelerated programs offer faster time-to-completion but are more challenging. Standard-paced programs take longer to complete but accommodate busy schedules.

Financial Aid and Scholarships for Hybrid MBA Students

Making a detailed hybrid MBA tuition comparison before choosing a program is a must. Then, you must consider the availability, types, and amounts of financial aid. Your ultimate goal: Find affordable tuition and fees and generous financial aid.

FAFSA and federal aid options

Complete the FAFSA even if you think you won’t qualify – you’ll likely qualify. Federal aid for MBA students is:

Direct Unsubsidized Loans
Graduate PLUS Loans

The FAFSA is also a required document for many state-based aid programs. Many need-based financial aid programs also use it to assess applications.

Scholarships for MBA students or working professionals

Check with your program director and financial aid office for more information. Professional business associations and nonprofits also offer scholarships. Check with these organizations:

National Black MBA Association
Forté Foundation
Prospanica
The Consortium for Graduate Study in Management
Reaching Out MBA (ROMBA)

Use Fastweb and other scholarship search engines to your advantage.

Employer tuition reimbursement programs

Check with your employer if partial and full tuition reimbursements are available. Many corporations offer tuition assistance programs for MBA candidates, too, including:

Deloitte’s Graduate School Assistance Program
Amazon’s Career Choice Program
Bain & Company’s MBA Sponsorship Program

Apple, Google, and J.P. Morgan Chase are also known for their sponsorship programs.

Final Thoughts: Balancing Work, School, and Budget

In conclusion, cost shouldn’t be a barrier to your MBA aspirations. You’ll find many affordable hybrid MBA programs that offer quality business education. Plus, these programs offer a wide range of financial aid options.

Of course, you must be proactive during the entire admission-to-graduation process. For starters, compare hybrid MBA programs based on fit.

You must consider your unique interests, resources, schedule, and goals first. Then, you must consider the total cost of attendance. Keep in mind that affordability and quality – best value – can go hand in hand, but it takes work.

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