Best California MBA Schools and Programs

Your Guide to a California MBA Career, Curriculum and Education

Get Matched With MBA Programs

What Can You Do With an MBA in California


Are you interested in pursuing a career in business, finance, or management in California and already have your undergraduate degree? If so, you may be considering a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Graduate school alumni are usually qualified for a variety of jobs that span across many business-related disciplines. Some of the most common employment opportunities span the country and include work in accounting, human resources, operations, business analytics, information technology systems, general management, and health administration. Not only will this degree prepare you for a variety of professions as well as higher-paying leadership positions in the field, it can also provide you with the knowledge necessary to start your own business.

Working professionals who already have a full schedule or other important life responsibilities, however, may feel that a higher education degree is out of their reach. Fortunately, many business schools offering online MBA programs provide flexible scheduling options (evening or weekend courses and part-time or accelerated programs for leaders and executives) and the opportunity to complete coursework from the convenience of your own home and/or office from anywhere in the U.S. It’s important to realize that many distance learning MBA programs California offers require some type of residency, or on-campus education events; this allows you to connect to your class or community and network with faculty, staff, and classmates in the real world. You don't want to skip these, even if they are offered rather than required, it's easier to create a cohort this way, rather than using email or social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn. This means you'll still gain the most benefits from choosing a college or university that is relatively near your current location, even if it isn't the most affordable.

Compare Popular Online MBA Programs

Best MBA Programs in California


There are many colleges and universities in California that offer admission to online MBA programs. If you are interested in pursuing an advanced degree in business, it’s important to find an institution that fits both your budget and career goals. While there are numerous schools to choose from, read below to see some of the most prominent programs in California.

Stanford University Location
Stanford, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Communication
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Global Experiences
  • Joint and Dual Degrees
  • Leadership
  • Social Innovation
Retention %
99%
Graduation %
95%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$171,800
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
5:1
University of California-Berkeley Location
Berkeley, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Corporate Social Responsibility
  • Energy & Clean Technology
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • Global Management
  • Health Management
  • Leadership, Social Sector Leadership
  • Marketing
  • Real Estate
  • Strategy & Consulting
  • Technology
Retention %
97%
Graduation %
92%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$151,900
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
19:1
University of California-Los Angeles Location
Los Angeles, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
97%
Graduation %
91%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$132,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
18:1
Santa Clara University Location
Santa Clara, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Business Analytics
  • Entrepreneurship and New Venture Creation
  • Finance
  • Food and Agribusiness
  • Marketing, Digital Marketing and E-Commerce
Retention %
94%
Graduation %
92%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$126,700
Hybrid
Yes
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
10:1
University of California-Davis Location
Davis, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting
  • Business Analytics
  • Entrepreneurship/Innovation
  • Finance
  • General Management
  • IMPACT Program
  • Marketing
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Statistics/Info. Tech./Operations
  • STEM
  • Strategy
  • Technology Management
Retention %
92%
Graduation %
86%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$116,900
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
20:1
University of California-Irvine Location
Irvine, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Executive MBA
Retention %
94%
Graduation %
85%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$110,800
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
18:1
University of California-San Diego Location
San Diego, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Business Analytics
  • Finance - incl Banking
  • Management
Retention %
93%
Graduation %
87%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$103,200
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
19:1
San Diego State University Location
San Diego, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • Health Services
  • Information Systems
  • International Business
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Project Management
  • Supply Chain Management
Retention %
89%
Graduation %
76%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$105,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
27:1
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo Location
San Luis Obispo, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting
  • Economics
  • Finance
  • Marketing
  • Operations Management
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Strategy
Retention %
94%
Graduation %
83%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$96,700
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
20:1
San Jose State University Location
San Jose, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting
  • Entrepreneurship & Venture Development
  • Finance
  • Global Business Development
  • Information Systems
  • Marketing
  • Operations Management
  • Organizational Development
Retention %
87%
Graduation %
66%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$107,100
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
25:1
Loyola Marymount University Location
Los Angeles, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • Marketing
Retention %
89%
Graduation %
83%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$102,100
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
10:1
University of Southern California Location
Los Angeles, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
96%
Graduation %
92%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$124,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
9:1
California State Polytechnic University-Pomona Location
Pomona, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
90%
Graduation %
67%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$98,800
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
28:1
San Francisco State University Location
San Francisco, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting
  • Decision Sciences/Operations Research
  • Finance
  • Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM)
  • Information Systems
  • International Business
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Sustainable Business
Retention %
80%
Graduation %
55%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$111,300
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
22:1
California State University-Long Beach Location
Long Beach, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Finance
  • Health Care Administration
  • Health Science
  • Hospitality Management
  • Human Resources Management
  • Information Systems
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Recreation, and Leisure Studies
Retention %
87%
Graduation %
73%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$92,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
24:1
Saint Mary's College of California Location
Moraga, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Executive MBA
Retention %
84%
Graduation %
73%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$121,700
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
11:1
Pepperdine University Location
Malibu, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Finance
  • Leadership And Managing Organizational Change
  • Management
  • Marketing
Retention %
91%
Graduation %
89%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$107,200
Hybrid
Yes
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
13:1
California State University-Northridge Location
Northridge, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • Management/Human Resources
  • Marketing
Retention %
81%
Graduation %
55%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$106,800
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
27:1
California State University-Fullerton Location
Fullerton, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting
  • Business Analytics
  • Finance
  • Information Systems
  • Management
  • Marketing, Marketing Analytics
  • Operations and Supply Chain Management (new)
  • Organizational Leadership
  • Risk Management and Insurance
Retention %
89%
Graduation %
69%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$91,600
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
25:1
California State University-Sacramento Location
Sacramento, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Business Analytics in Healthcare
  • Entrepreneurship & Global Business
  • Finance
  • General Management
Retention %
83%
Graduation %
54%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$105,700
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
26:1
University of California-Riverside Location
Riverside, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting
  • Finance
  • Information Systems
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Operations & Supply Chain Management
Retention %
90%
Graduation %
77%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$87,500
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
22:1
Lincoln University Location
Oakland, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Executive (EMBA)
  • Finance Management and Investments
  • Human Resources Management
  • International Business
  • Management Information Systems
  • Marketing Management
Retention %
100%
Graduation %
80%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$77,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
18:1
Biola University Location
La Mirada, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
83%
Graduation %
71%
Accreditation
ACBSP
Average Salary
$93,000
Hybrid
Yes
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
14:1
University of San Francisco Location
San Francisco, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Business Analytics
  • Entrepreneurship and Innovation
  • Finance
  • Marketing
Retention %
85%
Graduation %
71%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$109,100
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
13:1
California State University-East Bay Location
Hayward, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Business Analytics for Managers
  • Finance
  • Human Resources and Organizational Behavior
  • Marketing Management
  • Operations and Supply Chain Management
  • Strategy and Innovation Management
Retention %
76%
Graduation %
47%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$110,500
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
26:1
University of San Diego Location
San Diego, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Business Analytics
  • Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainable Enterprise
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • International Business
  • Managerial Leadership
  • Marketing
  • Supply chain management
Retention %
92%
Graduation %
80%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$96,300
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
14:1
California State University-Fresno Location
Fresno, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
83%
Graduation %
58%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$93,700
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
23:1
Golden Gate University-San Francisco Location
San Francisco, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Adaptive Leadership
  • Business Analytics
  • Entrepreneur
  • Finance
  • Human Resource Management
  • Industrial-Organizational Psychology
  • Information Technology Management
  • Marketing
  • Project Management
  • Public Administration
Retention %
NA
Graduation %
73%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$119,900
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
12:1
California State University-San Bernardino Location
San Bernardino, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting
  • Cybersecurity
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Global Supply Chain Management
Retention %
86%
Graduation %
59%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$88,100
Hybrid
Yes
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
29:1
California State University-Los Angeles Location
Los Angeles, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting
  • Business Analytics
  • Entertainment Business Management
  • Finance
  • Healthcare Management
  • Human Resource Management
  • Information Systems
  • International Business
  • Marketing
  • Real Estate
  • Supply Chain Management
Retention %
81%
Graduation %
52%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$92,500
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
24:1
California State University-Chico Location
Chico, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Enterprise Information Systems
  • Project Management
Retention %
84%
Graduation %
65%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$78,100
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
24:1
California State University-Stanislaus Location
Turlock, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Finance
Retention %
83%
Graduation %
57%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$84,800
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
22:1
Dominican University of California Location
San Rafael, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Business Analytics
  • Global Business
  • Healthcare Leadership
Retention %
89%
Graduation %
74%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$75,395
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
9:1
Sonoma State University Location
Rohnert Park, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
78%
Graduation %
60%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$79,200
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
22:1
California Baptist University Location
Riverside, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting
  • Management
Retention %
78%
Graduation %
62%
Accreditation
ACBSP
Average Salary
$83,600
Hybrid
Yes
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
16:1
Chapman University Location
Orange, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
91%
Graduation %
80%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$85,500
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
Yes
Student-to-faculty
13:1
Concordia University-Irvine Location
Irvine, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
73%
Graduation %
59%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$78,800
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
16:1
Point Loma Nazarene University Location
San Diego, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Organizational Leadership
Retention %
88%
Graduation %
72%
Accreditation
ACBSP
Average Salary
$66,399
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
14:1
University of Redlands Location
Redlands, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Finance
  • Marketing
Retention %
85%
Graduation %
71%
Accreditation
ACBSP
Average Salary
$80,074
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
12:1
University of La Verne Location
La Verne, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Executive MBA
  • Finance
  • Leadership
  • Marketing
Retention %
82%
Graduation %
66%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$74,279
Hybrid
Yes
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
14:1
California Lutheran University Location
Thousand Oaks, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • Human Capital Management
  • International Business
  • IT Management
  • Marketing
Retention %
84%
Graduation %
71%
Accreditation
ACBSP
Average Salary
$72,750
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
15:1
California State University-Bakersfield Location
Bakersfield, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting
  • Economics
  • Finance
  • Management
  • Management Information Systems
  • Marketing
Retention %
77%
Graduation %
46%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$81,300
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
24:1
California State University-Monterey Bay Location
Seaside, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Executive MBA
Retention %
80%
Graduation %
60%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$66,469
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
23:1
Claremont Graduate University Location
Claremont, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • Human Resources Management
  • Information Technology
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Strategy
  • Supply Chain Management
Retention %
0%
Graduation %
74%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$111,600
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
8:1
Fresno Pacific University Location
Fresno, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
74%
Graduation %
67%
Accreditation
ACBSP
Average Salary
$68,696
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
11:1
The Master's University and Seminary Location
Santa Clarita, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
86%
Graduation %
64%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$62,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
12:1
California State University-San Marcos Location
San Marcos, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Business Analytics
  • International Business
  • Supply Chain Management
Retention %
79%
Graduation %
57%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$66,041
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
26:1
Azusa Pacific University Location
Azusa, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • International Business
  • Marketing
  • Organizational Science
Retention %
80%
Graduation %
66%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$66,421
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
11:1
Mount Saint Mary's University Location
Los Angeles, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Entertainment Management
  • Organizational Leadership
  • Project Management
Retention %
72%
Graduation %
59%
Accreditation
ACBSP
Average Salary
$70,430
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
10:1
La Sierra University Location
Riversid, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Finance
  • Health Care Management
  • Human Resource Management
  • Management
  • Marketing
Retention %
78%
Graduation %
52%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$72,303
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
13:1
California State University-Dominguez Hills Location
Carson, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Finance
  • Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management
  • Human Resources
  • Information Technology
  • International Business
  • Logistics Management Certificate
  • Management
  • Marketing Management
Retention %
77%
Graduation %
48%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$69,129
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
26:1
California State University-Channel Islands Location
Camarillo, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
77%
Graduation %
55%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$62,896
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
21:1
Humphreys University-Stockton and Modesto Location
Stockton, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • General Business
Retention %
100%
Graduation %
57%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$60,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
12:1
Cal Poly Humboldt Location
Arcata, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Social Environment of Business
  • Strategic Management
Retention %
75%
Graduation %
49%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$64,365
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
19:1
Notre Dame de Namur University Location
Belmont, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Finance
  • Human Resources
  • Marketing
Retention %
64%
Graduation %
49%
Accreditation
ACBSP
Average Salary
$76,065
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
12:1
Mills College Location
Oakland, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting
  • Arts Management
  • Education
  • Finance
  • Marketing
  • Public Policy
  • Social Entrepreneurship
  • Social Impact and Innovation
Retention %
77%
Graduation %
65%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$72,686
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
10:1
Pacific Union College Location
Angwin, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Management
Retention %
80%
Graduation %
51%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$79,290
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
11:1
Holy Names University Location
Oakland, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting
  • Finance
  • Management & Leadership
  • Marketing
Retention %
67%
Graduation %
39%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$77,851
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
8:1
University of the West Location
Rosemead, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Computer Information Systems
  • Finance
  • International Business
  • Nonprofit Organization Management
Retention %
94%
Graduation %
28%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$70,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
6:1
Northwestern Polytechnic University Location
Fremont, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
NA
Graduation %
33%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$93,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
2:1
William Jessup University Location
Rocklin, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
78%
Graduation %
53%
Accreditation
ACBSP
Average Salary
$55,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
10:1
Hope International University Location
Fullerton, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Marketing Management
  • Non-Profit Management
Retention %
72%
Graduation %
49%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$60,684
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
13:1
United States University Location
San Diego, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
100%
Graduation %
NA
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$83,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
13:1
Woodbury University Location
Burbank, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting-Finance
  • Global Strategy-Leadership
Retention %
84%
Graduation %
60%
Accreditation
AACSB, ACBSP
Average Salary
$75,500
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
9:1
Alliant International University-San Diego Location
San Diego, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Hospitality Management
  • Practical Training MBA, or CPT
Retention %
100%
Graduation %
20%
Accreditation
ACBSP
Average Salary
$86,800
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
10:1
Lander University Location
Thousand Oaks, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting
  • Economics
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Human Resources
  • International Business
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Taxation
Retention %
68%
Graduation %
49%
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$53,695
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
17:1
Brandman University Location
Irvine, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
100%
Graduation %
8%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$82,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
19:1
National University Location
La Jolla, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Bank Management
  • Financial Management
  • Human Resource Management
  • International Business
  • Marketing
  • Organizational Leadership
  • Supply Chain Management
Retention %
50%
Graduation %
47%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$60,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
16:1
DeVry University-Pomona Location
Ontario, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting
  • Business Intelligence and Analytics Management
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • Global Supply Chain Management
  • Health Services
  • Human Resources
  • Information Systems Management
  • Marketing
  • Project Management
Retention %
55%
Graduation %
27%
Accreditation
ACBSP
Average Salary
$76,661
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
17:1
DeVry University-California Location
Long Beach, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Accounting
  • Business Intelligence and Analytics Management
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • Global Supply Chain Management
  • Health Services
  • Human Resources
  • Information Systems Management
  • Marketing
  • Project Management
Retention %
55%
Graduation %
27%
Accreditation
ACBSP
Average Salary
$76,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
17:1
University of Antelope Valley Location
Lancaster, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
72%
Graduation %
66%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$65,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
15:1
International Technological University Location
Santa Clara, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Business Analytics (with a STEM option)
  • Economics Business and Development
  • Enterprise Resource Planning
  • Financial Analysis and Risk Management
  • Global Entertainment Management
  • Healthcare Management
  • Management Information Systems
  • Project Management
Retention %
NA
Graduation %
NA
Accreditation
ACBSP
Average Salary
$103,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
NA
Naval Postgraduate School Location
Monterey, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Acquisition Management
  • Defense Management
  • Financial Management
  • Information Management
  • Logistics Management
Retention %
NA
Graduation %
NA
Accreditation
AACSB
Average Salary
$127,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
NA
American Jewish University Location
Los Angeles, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
NA
Graduation %
33%
Accreditation
WASC Senior College & WSCUC
Average Salary
$74,000
Hybrid
Yes
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
5:1
Abraham Lincoln University Location
Glendale, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
NA
Graduation %
NA
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$60,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
3:1
Northcentral University Location
La Jolla, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Criminal Justice
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Financial Management
  • Global Business Management
  • Health Services
  • Homeland Security
  • Human Resources Management
  • Information Technology
  • Management of Virtual Organizations
  • Project Management
  • Strategic Marketing
Retention %
NA
Graduation %
NA
Accreditation
ACBSP
Average Salary
$71,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
3:1
California Aeronautical University Location
Bakersfield, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
100%
Graduation %
30%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
NA
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
6:1
Antioch University-Santa Barbara Location
Santa Barbara, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
NA
Graduation %
NA
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$69,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
3:1
Fremont College Location
Cerritos, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Business Development Leadership
  • Organizational Leadership
Retention %
NA
Graduation %
38%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
$56,000
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
11:1
Southern States University Location
San Diego, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
100%
Graduation %
NA
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
NA
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
5:1
Bethesda University Location
Anaheim, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
43%
Graduation %
24%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
NA
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
10:1
America Evangelical University Location
Los Angeles, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
100%
Graduation %
NA
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
NA
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
4:1
Westcliff University Location
Irvine, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Business Statistics and Data Analytics (BST)
  • Digital Communications and Multimedia (DCM)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Financial Management
  • General Management, Organizational Management
  • Health Care Management/Administration
  • Health Informatics & Analysis (HIA)
  • Information Technology (ITY)
  • Information Technology Project Management (ITM)
  • International Business
  • Marketing
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Web Development & Design
Retention %
79%
Graduation %
NA
Accreditation
ACBSP
Average Salary
NA
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
11:1
Pacific College Location
Costa Mesa, CA
MBA Concentrations
No
Retention %
NA
Graduation %
77%
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
NA
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
13:1
California Intercontinental University Location
Irvine, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Banking and Finance
  • Healthcare Management & Leadership
  • Information Systems & Knowledge Management
  • International Management and Marketing
  • Project & Quality Management
Retention %
24%
Graduation %
NA
Accreditation
ACBSP
Average Salary
NA
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
5:1
California Miramar University Location
San Diego, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Finance
  • Health Care Management
  • International Business
  • Marketing
  • Strategic Leadership and Management in Global Business
  • Technology Management
Retention %
NA
Graduation %
NA
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
NA
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
12:1
Sofia University Location
Palo Alto, CA
MBA Concentrations
  • Business Analytics
  • Leadership & Organizational Effectiveness
  • Management of Technology and Innovation
Retention %
NA
Graduation %
NA
Accreditation
No
Average Salary
NA
Hybrid
NA
Part-Time
NA
Student-to-faculty
5:1

Why Consider An Online MBA?


There are several reasons people choose to search for an online degree in business in California. For starters, MBAs are immensely popular among individuals who want to further advance their careers. While not all of the business industries in California expect their employees to have a graduate degree, it does provide an edge over potential competition, including access to upper-management and administration positions, which often require more training and experience. It’s also common for a professional with an MBA to make more money than those without one. Additionally, some companies and organizations require promotion candidates to have an advanced degree or limit the potential for future raises until after the next level of education is completed.

Find Your Online MBA Program

At the very least, an MBA will impress a hiring committee; it shows great dedication to the field as a whole, indicates familiarity with more advanced concepts in business management, builds on your work experience, and suggests you're not afraid of innovation and are willing to learn. For this reason, current professionals interested in applying for leadership roles, changing their careers, or starting their own business should strongly consider enrolling in a part- or full-time MBA online. This type of degree makes graduates extremely marketable because content usually covers basic business, finance, and management techniques. The skills you develop throughout the program will be useful regardless of the focus of your specific career plans and goals.

Many people also choose to earn an MBA online because they are already employed, have family responsibilities, thrive academically without distractions, or are interested in a specific academic program, or one with great rankings, but are unable to move in order to study.

Earning an MBA, online or otherwise, does not guarantee advancement in your career, however. While a graduate degree in business will likely make you more marketable, impress potential employers, and result in a higher salary, these changes don’t occur overnight. You must combine the skills and knowledge attained from your MBA program with hard work and dedication to be truly successful in the field.

Percentage of Students Enrolled By Distance Education


Typical MBA Concentrations


As with many degrees, some MBA programs offer students the opportunity to choose a specialization in various areas. While the main coursework required will be the same, selecting a focus will allow you to take classes that will help you specialize in a specific business sub-field. Two of the most popular concentrations available for online MBA degrees in California are Health Administration and Information Technology. These may be completed in nearly the same amount of time as the usual degree, with only a few additional months needed for the most difficult specializations, such as engineering.

  • Health Administration MBA

    California is home is some of the most prominent healthcare facilities in the nation. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the state had the highest employment level for medical and health services management in 2020. With 42,200 professionals in the field, the opportunity for employment as a director of a hospital, nursing home, or outpatient care center is promising. Students should expect to lean a variety of business, management, finance, and marketing techniques geared specifically toward these careers.

    Common coursework includes:

    • Current Issues in Healthcare Administration
    • Ethics and Decision Making
    • Law and Compliance
    • Health Information and Analytics
  • Information Technology/Systems

    California is also a center for many world-class technology firms. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistic, the state had the highest employment level for both database administrators and network and computer systems administrators in 2020. With over 81,500 professionals in these fields alone, the opportunities for employment as information technology directors, chief technology officers, and entrepreneurs are abundant. Students should expect to lean a variety of business, management, finance, and marketing techniques geared specifically toward technology-related careers.

    Common coursework includes:

    • Database Development and Applications
    • Electronic Commerce
    • Emerging Technologies
    • Business Process Analysis and Design

Accreditation in California


As you will quickly find out, no two online MBA programs are exactly the same. To ensure their programs meet certain quality standards, colleges and universities must undergo an accreditation process. Essentially, they must prove that their degree and each course follows the guidelines established by one or more accreditation organizations.

Some of the most prominent international accreditation agencies include:

  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB Rankings)
  • Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP Rankings)
  • The Association of MBAs (AMBA)
  • European Quality Improvement System (EQUIS)
  • The Distance Education and Training Council (DETC)

Of these, the AACSB is by far the most reputable organization. It does not, however, accredit many online MBA programs. For this reason, students looking for a quality program in California should consider colleges and universities accredited by the DETC. Students who complete an online MBA program accredited by either of these organizations will have little trouble finding employment within and outside of the United States.

An even better option is to attend a program accredited by a regional organization. Professionals who intend to work in California should consider institutions approved by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. This type of accreditation proves the program meets all necessary professional standards within the region and is accepted by employers across the nation.

The value of your degree, in terms of pay offered, greatly depends on the accreditation of the institution you select, regardless of whether you prefer a hybrid or on-campus program. Depending on your professional goals, you’ll likely want to avoid colleges and universities that are not accredited. Choosing a college or university with accreditation for its online MBA program is important. Not only will it add credibility and value to your degree, but it ensures that you will graduate with the ability to work professionally internationally and/or within the United States. It’s highly recommended that you avoid institutions which have not been recognized as high quality by an international or regional accreditation agency.

Career and Job Outlook for MBA Graduates


The economy in California is quickly growing. In fact, according to the Employment Development Department, the state is expected to have an additional 2,585,500 job openings available before the year 2024. That’s on top of the 3,962,200 jobs expected due to replacement needs. About 12% of new jobs are expected to be office and administrative support occupations. Additionally, some of the fastest growing occupations include web developers, software developers, and operations research analysts.

Based on info provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals working in the business and financial operations field can expect a 10% increase in employment between 2016 and 2026. As of 2020, California was also the leading employer for medical and health services managers, database administrators, and network and computer systems administrators. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that all of these fields can also expect up to a 20% increase in job availability. The projected growth in many of these industries is faster than average.

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While the Employment Development Department in California states that most new positions will not require a graduate education, having an MBA will be extremely beneficial as requirements for higher-level positions continue to change. Individuals with a master’s degree in business will be qualified to apply for upper-level leadership, consulting, and executive positions. The training and skills acquired will also make it easier to find a place in a variety of different industries.

Some of the most common employment opportunities for professionals with an MBA include:

  • Accountant
  • Budget Analyst
  • Business Operations Manager
  • Financial Analyst
  • Health Information Manager
  • Health Policy Analyst
  • Healthcare Administrator
  • Human Resources Manager
  • Information Systems Manager
  • Market Research Analyst
  • Marketing Manager
  • Operations Research Analyst
  • Project Manager
  • Purchasing Manager
  • Securities Analyst
  • Top Executive

Top Employers in the State by Number of Employees


Company Industry Headquarters City Number of Employees
32nd Street Naval Station Government San Diego 25,000
UCLA Health System Healthcare Los Angeles 3,000+
Walt Disney Resorts and Parks Entertainment Anaheim 130,000 worldwide
Caltrans Transportation Sacramento 15,000

Careers and Salaries for MBA Graduates in California


According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the median wage for business and financial occupations was $87,550 in 2020. It’s important to note, however, that California is one of the highest paying states for many business-related occupations. For example, accountants, auditors, human resource specialists, health services managers, database administrators, and computer systems administrators working in California in 2020 were paid significantly more than they would have been if they worked in most other states.

Having an MBA improves salary potential. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, business, finance, and sales professionals with a graduate degree made more money than those without one in 2019. In fact, some occupations provided as much as a 90% increase to those with an advanced degree.

An MBA can help you find employment in many different industries, however, so you will need to research earning potential for your specific job of interest. California tends to pay business professionals well, but regional location, job type, and position title will all play a role in your salary.

Careers for California MBA Grads


As previously mentioned, there are numerous career opportunities for individuals with an MBA in California. While MBA graduates can usually find work in any industry, positions commonly deal with business management and finance. To give you a clearer understanding on some typical positions in the field, consider the following job descriptions.

  • Financial Business Analyst
    Financial business analysts utilize internal and external client data to advise company administrators, especially when thinking about and making important financial decisions. These professionals often evaluate income statements, cash flow statements, and balance sheets to better predict how current financials will impact ongoing operations.
  • Financial Manager
    Financial managers are primarily responsible for monitoring spending, preparing financial reports, and making financial forecasts. They are often asked to research how the company can improve its overall profitability. In some cases, these professionals also provide valuable insight regarding potential expansions, mergers, and acquisitions.
  • Business Development Manager
    Business development managers have two important responsibilities: identify beneficial opportunities for the company or establish relationships with potential clients. These professionals also find sales leads, manage marketing literature, and provide valuable information to customers about products and services.
  • Chief Financial Officer
    Chief financial officers report directly to the president or chief executive officer of a company or organization and oversee all business finances. They are also responsible for finding funding, forecasting financial futures, managing potential risks, and reporting important data to the administration.
  • Accounting Manager
    Accounting managers are in charge of managing a company or organization’s accounting department. They often develop any guiding financial principles and practices, as well as ensure procedures are being followed. These professionals are also responsible for monitoring and analyzing financial data and creating necessary financial reports.

How to Choose & FAQ's


If you believe an online MBA degree is right for you, it’s important that you research the available programs in California. You will need to find a college or university that offers a curriculum that suits your lifestyle and career goals. Keep in mind that some online graduate degrees do require physically being on campus from time to time. For this reason, it may be necessary to choose an institution that isn’t too far away from your home and job. Other factors to consider are curriculum expectations and the potential to gain hands-on experience throughout the program.

Most online MBA programs consist of 30 to 60 credit hours of coursework and are designed to be completed within one to two years. While no two programs are alike, many offer flexible scheduling for full-time professionals.

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Classes also vary, but often include topics like:

  • Enterprise Management, Organization, and Strategy
  • Business Ethics and Law
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Marketing Management
  • Strategic Decision Making
  • Information Technology Management
  • Financial Principles and Policies
  • Marketing Research
  • Corporate Finance
  • Innovative Business Models
  • International Business
  • Human Capital Management Strategy
  • Data Management
  • Sustainable Business Strategies

Many students worry that an online MBA will not provide them with the hands-on experience they need to be successful in the field. This is why some colleges and universities often require distance learners to complete certain requirements on campus during residency experiences.

You will need to seriously consider whether an online MBA will provide you with the skills necessary to be successful in your preferred business profession. Some careers require little in-person interaction to begin with. Accountants, for example, would likely benefit as much from an on-campus program as they would an online one. A health administrator, on the other hand, may prefer some hands-on management experiences.

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