Online MBA in Operations Management Degree - Top 25 Programs of 2024

Get Matched With Operations Management Programs

An Online MBA in Operations Management is a graduate degree program that focuses on developing advanced business and management skills specifically tailored to the field of business operations management or supply chain management. It can be earned through an online educational platform, allowing you to study and complete coursework remotely. These programs provide professionals like you with the knowledge and expertise needed to effectively manage operations, enhance efficiency, and drive profitable outcomes in various industries. They are designed for individuals seeking to advance their careers in operations management while maintaining flexibility and convenience through online learning platforms.

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What is an MBA in Operations Management?

An MBA, or Master of Business Administration, is a graduate degree that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of various business disciplines. From finance and marketing to human resources and operations management, an MBA curriculum covers a broad range of topics. These programs prepare individuals for leadership roles in a wide range of industries by equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to make strategic decisions, solve complex problems, and drive organizational success.

Whether offered through traditional on-campus programs or online platforms, an MBA offers flexibility and convenience to working professionals. It allows students to pursue higher education while maintaining their career responsibilities. With their emphasis on practical skills and real-world application, an MBA can enhance one's abilities to lead and manage effectively in a dynamic business environment.

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Top 25 Best MBA in Operations Management

Carnegie Mellon University

Score: 88.79

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $48,496
- Out-of-State: $48,496
Net Price: $33,499
Acceptance Rate: 11%
Retention Rate: 97%

Graduation Rate: 92%
Total Enrollment: 16,002
Undergrad Students: 7,059
Graduate Students: 8,943
Grads Salary: $108,000
Student-to-faculty: 5:1

Georgia Institute of Technology

Score: 87.52

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,064
- Out-of-State: $29,140
Net Price: $17,402
Acceptance Rate: 17%
Retention Rate: 98%

Graduation Rate: 93%
Total Enrollment: 45,296
Undergrad Students: 18,415
Graduate Students: 26,881
Grads Salary: $95,000
Student-to-faculty: 19:1

Vanderbilt University

Score: 84.78

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $54,744
- Out-of-State: $54,744
Net Price: $25,606
Acceptance Rate: 7%
Retention Rate: 96%

Graduation Rate: 93%
Total Enrollment: 13,710
Undergrad Students: 7,151
Graduate Students: 6,559
Grads Salary: $89,000
Student-to-faculty: 7:1

University of Notre Dame

Score: 83.11

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $62,030
- Out-of-State: $62,030
Net Price: $28,474
Acceptance Rate: 13%
Retention Rate: 97%

Graduation Rate: 96%
Total Enrollment: 13,105
Undergrad Students: 8,971
Graduate Students: 4,134
Grads Salary: $87,000
Student-to-faculty: 9:1

The University of Texas at Austin

Score: 80.9

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,012
- Out-of-State: $22,954
Net Price: $17,434
Acceptance Rate: 31%
Retention Rate: 95%

Graduation Rate: 88%
Total Enrollment: 52,384
Undergrad Students: 41,309
Graduate Students: 11,075
Grads Salary: $83,000
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

Score: 80.86

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,176
- Out-of-State: $16,680
Net Price: $19,184
Acceptance Rate: 30%
Retention Rate: 94%

Graduation Rate: 85%
Total Enrollment: 22,000
Undergrad Students: 21,026
Graduate Students: 974
Grads Salary: $88,000
Student-to-faculty: 20:1

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Score: 80.54

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,728
- Out-of-State: $24,054
Net Price: $13,376
Acceptance Rate: 49%
Retention Rate: 94%

Graduation Rate: 89%
Total Enrollment: 48,956
Undergrad Students: 36,306
Graduate Students: 12,650
Grads Salary: $80,000
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Score: 80.16

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,459
- Out-of-State: $29,433
Net Price: $14,852
Acceptance Rate: 47%
Retention Rate: 94%

Graduation Rate: 85%
Total Enrollment: 36,700
Undergrad Students: 26,254
Graduate Students: 10,446
Grads Salary: $82,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

Boston College

Score: 79.27

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $35,784
- Out-of-State: $35,784
Net Price: $30,559
Acceptance Rate: 17%
Retention Rate: 95%

Graduation Rate: 91%
Total Enrollment: 15,287
Undergrad Students: 9,982
Graduate Students: 5,305
Grads Salary: $85,000
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

University of Georgia

Score: 76.74

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,878
- Out-of-State: $25,186
Net Price: $17,180
Acceptance Rate: 43%
Retention Rate: 94%

Graduation Rate: 88%
Total Enrollment: 40,607
Undergrad Students: 30,714
Graduate Students: 9,893
Grads Salary: $73,000
Student-to-faculty: 17:1

Ohio State University

Score: 76.66

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,515
- Out-of-State: $40,245
Net Price: $19,582
Acceptance Rate: 53%
Retention Rate: 93%

Graduation Rate: 88%
Total Enrollment: 60,540
Undergrad Students: 46,123
Graduate Students: 14,417
Grads Salary: $77,000
Student-to-faculty: 17:1

San Jose State University

Score: 75.63

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,176
- Out-of-State: $16,680
Net Price: $14,219
Acceptance Rate: 77%
Retention Rate: 85%

Graduation Rate: 68%
Total Enrollment: 35,751
Undergrad Students: 26,863
Graduate Students: 8,888
Grads Salary: $91,000
Student-to-faculty: 22:1

California State University-Fullerton

Score: 74.49

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,176
- Out-of-State: $16,680
Net Price: $7,925
Acceptance Rate: 67%
Retention Rate: 86%

Graduation Rate: 69%
Total Enrollment: 40,386
Undergrad Students: 35,432
Graduate Students: 4,954
Grads Salary: $80,000
Student-to-faculty: 24:1

Case Western Reserve University

Score: 74.46

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $52,360
- Out-of-State: $52,360
Net Price: $38,279
Acceptance Rate: 27%
Retention Rate: 93%

Graduation Rate: 86%
Total Enrollment: 12,201
Undergrad Students: 6,017
Graduate Students: 6,184
Grads Salary: $84,000
Student-to-faculty: 9:1

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Score: 73.42

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $28,980
- Out-of-State: $28,980
Net Price: $46,876
Acceptance Rate: 57%
Retention Rate: 91%

Graduation Rate: 89%
Total Enrollment: 7,308
Undergrad Students: 5,246
Graduate Students: 2,062
Grads Salary: $95,000
Student-to-faculty: 13:1

University of California-Riverside

Score: 73.41

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,264
- Out-of-State: $27,366
Net Price: $14,487
Acceptance Rate: 69%
Retention Rate: 87%

Graduation Rate: 76%
Total Enrollment: 26,809
Undergrad Students: 22,911
Graduate Students: 3,898
Grads Salary: $79,000
Student-to-faculty: 24:1

Missouri University of Science and Technology

Score: 72.95

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,200
- Out-of-State: $24,000
Net Price: $14,023
Acceptance Rate: 81%
Retention Rate: 86%

Graduation Rate: 62%
Total Enrollment: 7,080
Undergrad Students: 5,498
Graduate Students: 1,582
Grads Salary: $86,000
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

University at Buffalo

Score: 72.28

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,310
- Out-of-State: $24,260
Net Price: $18,524
Acceptance Rate: 68%
Retention Rate: 84%

Graduation Rate: 74%
Total Enrollment: 32,099
Undergrad Students: 20,761
Graduate Students: 11,338
Grads Salary: $76,000
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Wheeling University

Score: 71.98

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,900
- Out-of-State: $9,900
Net Price: $19,998
Acceptance Rate: 73%
Retention Rate: 72%

Graduation Rate: 70%
Total Enrollment: 749
Undergrad Students: 594
Graduate Students: 155
Grads Salary: $82,000
Student-to-faculty: 9:1

Kettering University

Score: 71.85

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,384
- Out-of-State: $14,384
Net Price: $34,486
Acceptance Rate: 81%
Retention Rate: 87%

Graduation Rate: 69%
Total Enrollment: 1,769
Undergrad Students: 1,422
Graduate Students: 347
Grads Salary: $96,000
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

University of Illinois Chicago

Score: 71.42

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,108
- Out-of-State: $25,481
Net Price: $10,384
Acceptance Rate: 79%
Retention Rate: 78%

Graduation Rate: 62%
Total Enrollment: 33,747
Undergrad Students: 21,807
Graduate Students: 11,940
Grads Salary: $80,000
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

Regis University

Score: 71.17

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,573
- Out-of-State: $14,573
Net Price: $26,377
Acceptance Rate: 76%
Retention Rate: 72%

Graduation Rate: 67%
Total Enrollment: 4,668
Undergrad Students: 2,398
Graduate Students: 2,270
Grads Salary: $89,000
Student-to-faculty: 9:1

New York Institute of Technology

Score: 70.03

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $27,720
- Out-of-State: $27,720
Net Price: $22,494
Acceptance Rate: 76%
Retention Rate: 77%

Graduation Rate: 55%
Total Enrollment: 6,906
Undergrad Students: 3,453
Graduate Students: 3,453
Grads Salary: $91,000
Student-to-faculty: 13:1

University of Portland

Score: 69.76

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $26,100
- Out-of-State: $26,100
Net Price: $33,717
Acceptance Rate: 93%
Retention Rate: 86%

Graduation Rate: 79%
Total Enrollment: 3,793
Undergrad Students: 3,390
Graduate Students: 403
Grads Salary: $83,000
Student-to-faculty: 9:1

Southern Methodist University

Score: 69.13

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $31,590
- Out-of-State: $31,590
Net Price: $45,094
Acceptance Rate: 52%
Retention Rate: 90%

Graduation Rate: 82%
Total Enrollment: 12,053
Undergrad Students: 7,056
Graduate Students: 4,997
Grads Salary: $85,000
Student-to-faculty: 11:1

Where Do You Earn an MBA?

MBAs are offered by many universities and business schools around the world. They can be earned through traditional on-campus programs or online platforms, providing students with flexibility in their learning journey. When choosing where to earn an MBA, individuals should consider factors such as program reputation, accreditation, faculty expertise, curriculum, and specialization options.

Find Your Online Operations Management Schools

Top universities and business schools known for their MBA programs include Harvard Business School, Stanford Graduate School of Business, Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, MIT Sloan School of Management, and others. These institutions are renowned for their rigorous curriculum, experienced faculty, and strong alumni networks, providing students with valuable resources and opportunities for networking and career advancement. However, you don’t need to attend a world-renowned school, known for their graduates but also for their high costs, to earn a worthwhile degree that can help you move your career forward.

Online Vs. Traditional Education in Operations Management

When considering earning a degree in operations management, you have the option to choose between online education and traditional education. Online education offers the flexibility for students to study at their own pace and convenience, allowing working professionals to balance their studies with work and personal commitments. On the other hand, traditional education provides a structured learning environment with face-to-face interactions and networking opportunities.

Both online and traditional educational formats have their advantages and disadvantages, and you should consider your personal preferences and circumstances when making a decision.

What are the Prerequisites for an MBA?

The prerequisites for an MBA program may vary depending on the university or business school. However, most MBAs require applicants to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Some programs may prefer candidates with relevant work experience, while others may prioritize academic achievements and standardized test scores, such as the GMAT or GRE.

Other common requirements for MBA admission include:

Letters of Recommendation:
Applicants are typically required to provide letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to their academic and/or professional abilities.
Resume or CV:
A current resume or curriculum vitae (CV) outlining the applicant's educational background, work experience, and skills.
Statement of Purpose:
A written statement explaining the applicant's career goals, motivations for pursuing an MBA, and how the program aligns with their aspirations.
Application Fee:
Most MBA programs require applicants to pay an application fee to cover the administrative costs of processing their application.

It is important for individuals to review the specific prerequisites and admission requirements of the MBA programs they are interested in to ensure they meet all necessary criteria for acceptance.

Why Earn an MBA in Operations Management?

Earning an MBA in operations management offers numerous benefits and can contribute to career advancement and professional growth.

Some of the key reasons why individuals choose to pursue an MBA include:

Enhanced Knowledge and Skills:
An MBA program provides a comprehensive understanding of various business disciplines, equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to make strategic decisions, solve complex problems, and drive organizational success.
Expanded Network:
Through an MBA program, students have the opportunity to connect and collaborate with professionals from diverse backgrounds, building a strong network of contacts that can be beneficial for career advancement and future opportunities.
Increased Job Opportunities:
Having an MBA degree can open doors to a wide range of job opportunities in various industries. Many employers prioritize candidates with an MBA for leadership and management roles, offering attractive salary packages and benefits.
Specialization Options:
MBAs often offer various specialization options, allowing students to focus on specific areas of interest such as operations management, finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship. These specializations can provide individuals with a competitive advantage in their chosen field.
Entrepreneurial Skills:
An MBA program can also equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to start and manage their own businesses. It provides a solid foundation in business principles and strategies, enabling aspiring entrepreneurs to navigate the challenges of running a successful business.

Why a Degree in Operations Management?

Earning a degree in operations management provides individuals with unique career opportunities and equips them with the skills necessary to optimize business processes, improve efficiency, and drive productivity within an organization with enterprise resource planning and other skills.

Find Online Operations Management Schools

Here are some key reasons why individuals choose a degree in operations management:

Diverse Career Paths:
A degree in operations management opens doors to a wide range of career paths in various industries including manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, retail, and consulting. Graduates can pursue roles such as operations manager, supply chain manager, project manager, quality control manager, and process improvement analyst.
High Demand:
Operations management professionals are in high demand across industries. Companies prioritize hiring individuals who can streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance productivity. The growing focus on efficiency and continuous improvement ensures a strong job market and ample career opportunities for those with an operations management degree.
Transferable Skills:
Operations management degree programs provide a strong foundation in critical skills that are highly valued in the business world. These skills include project management, process optimization, data analysis, logistics management, supply chain coordination, and problem-solving. These transferable skills can be applied to various roles and industries, making operations management graduates versatile professionals.
Impactful Contributions:
Operations management professionals have the opportunity to make significant contributions to an organization's success. By optimizing processes, improving productivity, and driving operational excellence, they have a direct impact on the company's bottom line. This ability to drive positive change and contribute strategically is a rewarding aspect of a career in operations management.
Continuous Learning and Growth:
The field of operations management is dynamic and constantly evolving. Graduates with an operations management degree have opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth in this field, international business, strategic management, operations research, data analysis, financial management, inventory management, etc. They can stay updated with emerging technologies, industry best practices, and innovative strategies to stay ahead in their careers.

What's Involved in an MBA Degree?

An MBA degree covers a wide range of business disciplines to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of business principles and practices. The curriculum typically includes core courses and elective courses that allow students to specialize in areas of interest. Here are some common courses you can expect to encounter in an MBA program:

Common Courses

Financial Accounting
Managerial Economics
Organizational Behavior
Marketing Management
Corporate Finance
Business Strategy
Operations Management
Quantitative Methods
Data Analysis

Concentrations

Many MBAs offer concentrations or specializations that allow students to focus on specific areas of interest. One common concentration is in operations management, which involves studying topics such as supply chain management, quality control, process improvement, and logistics. This concentration equips students with the specialized skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage operations and drive organizational success.

Here are some other common MBA concentrations:

Operations Management
Finance
Marketing
Human Resources
Entrepreneurship
And More

Choosing a concentration allows you to delve deeper into a specific area of business and gain expertise that can differentiate you in the job market.

What to Consider When Choosing an MBA Program in Operations Management

When choosing an online MBA program with a specialization in operations management, there are several important factors to consider:

Accreditation:
Ensure that the MBA program you choose is accredited by recognized accrediting agencies such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), or the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE). Accreditation ensures that the program meets high-quality standards and enhances your job prospects.
Curriculum:
Evaluate the curriculum of the MBA program to ensure it offers a comprehensive and relevant set of courses in operations management. Look for MBA courses specifically focused on supply chain management, process improvement, logistics, and quality control.
Faculty Expertise:
Research the faculty members of the MBA program and their expertise in operations management. Consider their professional experience, research publications, and industry connections, as they will play a crucial role in your learning experience.
Specialization Options:
Examine the available specialization options within the MBA program. Look for opportunities to deepen your knowledge and skills in operations management through concentrations or elective courses tailored to this field.
Internship/Experiential Learning Opportunities:
Check if the MBA program offers internship or experiential learning opportunities in operations management. Practical experience in a real-world setting can significantly enhance your understanding and application of operations management concepts.
Career Services:
Assess the career services and support provided by the MBA program. Look for programs with strong alumni networks, career counseling, job placement assistance, and networking events focused on operations management.
Program Reputation:
Consider the reputation of the MBA program and the business school or university offering it. Look for rankings, reviews, and testimonials from current and former students to gauge the program's quality and reputation in the industry.
Flexibility:
Evaluate the flexibility of the MBA program, especially if you are a working professional or have other personal commitments. Consider whether the program offers online or part-time options that allow you to balance your studies with work and other responsibilities.
Cost and Scholarships:
Take into account the overall cost of the MBA program including tuition fees, living expenses, and any additional costs. Research scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities that can help offset the cost of your education.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when choosing an MBA program in Operations Management that aligns with your career goals and personal circumstances.

Accreditation

Accreditation is an important factor to consider when choosing any educational program as it ensures that the program meets certain standards of quality and rigor. Accredited MBA programs have undergone a rigorous evaluation process conducted by accrediting agencies recognized by the US Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). These programs have demonstrated that they meet or exceed educational standards, providing students with a high-quality education and enhancing their job prospects. Some common accrediting agencies for MBA programs include the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), and the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).

Further Operations Management Education

Individuals interested in furthering their education in operations management have several options:

Doctorate or PhD

A doctorate or PhD in operations management is the highest level of education in the field. It provides individuals with the opportunity to conduct research, contribute to the academic community, and pursue careers in academia or advanced research positions. Doctoral programs in operations management typically involve coursework, research, and the completion of a dissertation. Graduates of these programs are prepared to make significant contributions to the field through their research and scholarly work.

Certification

Professional certifications in operations management can enhance career prospects and demonstrate specialized knowledge and skills in the field. Organizations such as the Association for Operations Management (APICS) offer certifications such as Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) and Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP). These certifications validate expertise in areas such as supply chain management, inventory control, and logistics. Obtaining a certification can increase job opportunities and earning potential for operations management professionals.

Potential Careers for Operations Management MBA Graduates

Graduates of an MBA in operations management program have a wide range of career opportunities in various industries.

Some potential careers include:

Operations Manager
Supply Chain Manager
Project Manager

Operations managers are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of a company. They manage resources, optimize processes, and ensure efficient production. With an MBA in this field, you can pursue leadership roles in operations departments, manufacturing firms, and logistics companies.

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Supply chain managers play a crucial role in coordinating the smooth flow of goods and services from suppliers to customers. They oversee the entire supply chain process, from procurement to delivery. An MBA in operations management equips you with the skills to manage and optimize supply chain operations, maximizing efficiency and reducing costs.

Project managers are responsible for planning, executing, and controlling projects to achieve specific goals. With an MBA in this field, you can specialize in project management and lead teams in the successful completion of complex projects. This career path is ideal for individuals who enjoy problem-solving, organization, and working in a dynamic environment.

Salary Expectations

Salaries for professionals with an MBA in operations management can vary depending on factors such as industry, job level, and geographic location. However, individuals in operations management roles can generally expect competitive salaries. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for operations managers in May 2020 was $105,000. However, salaries can range from around $70,000 to over $140,000 or more, depending on the specific position and level of experience.

Career	Median Annual Salary	Job Outlook
Operations Manager	$100,780	9% growth (faster than average)
Supply Chain Manager	$105,610	6% growth (as fast as average)
Project Manager	$75,470	5% growth (slower than average)

Note: Salary and job outlook data are based on the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Future Outlook for Operations Management

The job outlook for professionals with a degree in operations management is positive. As organizations continue to seek ways to improve efficiency and optimize processes, the demand for operations managers and professionals with operations management skills is expected to grow.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is projected to be a 9% growth in employment for general and operations managers from 2016 to 2026, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This indicates a favorable job market and ample career opportunities for individuals with an MBA and relevant experience in the field.

As the global business landscape evolves and companies adapt to changing market dynamics, the role of operations managers becomes increasingly crucial. These professionals play a pivotal role in streamlining operations, managing supply chains, and driving efficiency throughout the organization. Therefore, there is a strong demand for individuals with the skills and knowledge gained through an operations management degree.

With a positive job outlook and potential for career growth, pursuing an MBA in operations management can open doors to a wide range of exciting and rewarding opportunities in various industries. Whether it's in manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, or technology, operations management professionals are in high demand and can make a significant impact on organizational success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an online MBA in operations management?

An online MBA in operations management is a graduate degree program that focuses on developing advanced business and management skills specifically tailored to the field of operations management. It can be earned through an online educational platform, allowing students to study and complete coursework remotely. These programs provide professionals with the knowledge and expertise needed to effectively manage operations, enhance efficiency, and drive profitable outcomes in various industries.

What are the benefits of earning an MBA?

Earning an MBA offers numerous benefits and can contribute to career advancement and professional growth. Some of the key reasons why individuals choose to pursue an MBA include gaining a comprehensive understanding of various business disciplines, developing leadership skills, making strategic decisions, solving complex problems, and driving organizational success.

Where can you earn an MBA?

MBA programs are offered by many universities and business schools around the world. They can be earned through traditional on-campus programs or online platforms, providing students with flexibility in their learning journey.

What is the difference between online and traditional education in operations management?

Online education offers the flexibility for students to study at their own pace and convenience, allowing working professionals to balance their studies with work and personal commitments. On the other hand, traditional education provides a structured learning environment with face-to-face interactions and networking opportunities. Both online and traditional educational formats have their advantages and disadvantages, and individuals should consider their personal preferences and circumstances when making a decision.

What career opportunities are available with an MBA in operations management?

Graduates of an MBA in operations management program have a wide range of career opportunities in various industries. Some potential careers include operations manager, supply chain manager, project manager, and operations analyst.

Best Online MBA Operations Management Programs for 2024