Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois

Badge for BEST ONLINE MBA IN ILLINOIS
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Academic Influence Staff
Published:
Updated:

Featured Programs

Top 10 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois

  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
    • Cost of Degree: $18,131
  2. Western Illinois University
    • Cost of Degree: $12,693
  3. Roosevelt University
    • Cost of Degree: $23,094
  4. Benedictine University
    • Cost of Degree: $20,239
  5. National Louis University
    • Cost of Degree: $12,171
  6. McKendree University
    • Cost of Degree: $9,450
  7. North Central College
    • Cost of Degree: $15,822
  8. Lewis University
    • Cost of Degree: $14,960
  9. North Park University
    • Cost of Degree: $14,184
  10. Governors State University
    • Cost of Degree: $8,590

Key Takeaways

  • An online MBA program in Illinois can open leadership role opportunities in accounting, finance, human resources, organizational administration.
  • The state of Illinois has a number of key industries, perfectly positioning online MBA graduates for career advancement.
  • A number of the online MBA degree programs in Illinois can be completed on a part-time basis, making the programs a viable option for busy working professionals.
young business professional standing in an office

Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois

  1. #1

    University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Champaign , IL
    #2 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #8 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #9 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #13 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $18K

    Acceptance

    45%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    62K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1415/31

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Cost of Degree: $18,131
    Expenses: $16,420
    Starting Salary: $111,170
    Salary after 4 years: $136,944
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is one of the largest public universities in Illinois, offering over 100 rigorous and competitive majors leading to certificates and degrees. The university’s Gies College of Business is one of the most competitive business schools in the nation, and is accredited by the AACSB.

    The Gies online MBA degree has a very demanding admission process and offers a comprehensive curriculum. Online students will learn from world-renowned faculty experts and must complete self-paced intensive online classes. Each course in this MBA program consists of online homework in addition to extras like case studies, in-depth discussions, and faculty involvement.

    Concentrations include:

    • Digital Marketing
    • Entrepreneurship and Strategic Innovation
    • Global Challenges in Business
    • Business Analytics
    • Mergers & Acquisitions

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 72
    • Completion time: 2-3 Years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  2. #2

    Roosevelt University

    Chicago , IL
    #8 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2024 #1 Top 3 Best Online MBA in Real Estate Degree Programs Ranked for 2024 #3 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs #4 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    43%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    960/21

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Roosevelt University

    Cost of Degree: $23,094
    Expenses: $20,625
    Starting Salary: $65,085
    Salary after 4 years: $79,709
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Roosevelt University’s Heller College of Business has become a notable name in business education. This ACBSP-accredited business school offers several business degree programs, including its online Master of Business Administration that can be completed part-time through online learning delivery.

    The Heller MBA provides online students the same opportunities and academic rigor as their on-campus peers, including access to networking events, student support services, and experiential learning. The program’s curriculum integrates real business case studies and topics that build on a student’s undergraduate degree knowledge.

    Core courses of the program include Statistics for Business Decisions, Information Resource Management, Strategic Management, and Marketing Strategy. Upon completion of core and foundation courses, students will be able to choose a concentration.

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Accounting
    • Accounting Forensics
    • Finance
    • Human Resource Management
    • Information Systems
    • Integrated Marketing Communications
    • International Business
    • I/O Pscyhology
    • Management
    • Marketing
    • Social Entrepreneurship
    • Training and Development
    • Required Credits: 33
    • Completion time: 1 Year
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  3. #3

    Elmhurst University

    Elmhurst , IL
    #9 11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Speech Pathology #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $40K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    64%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/23

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Elmhurst University

    Cost of Degree: $33,370
    Expenses: $15,760
    Starting Salary: $70,406
    Salary after 4 years: $86,226
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Elmhurst University, known for its excellence in higher education, offers several career-focused academic programs. As a private liberal arts college, Elmhurst is one of the best schools for students seeking to study in small class sizes.

    Elmhurst’s School of Business is one of the top providers of business education in Illinois, offering an online MBA degree designed for busy working professionals. The program aims to equip graduate students with a thorough understanding of various business topics and analytical tools and skills for the business industry.

    Students can pursue a concentration or a general online MBA. Graduates will have the ability to succeed in a variety of diverse, international environments.

    Concentrations include:

    • Computer Information Technology
    • Data Science
    • Finance
    • General Management
    • Geography and Gis
    • Management of People
    • Managerial Leadership
    • Marketing and Consumer Insights
    • Project Management
    • Supply Chain Management
    • Healthcare Administration

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)

    Concentrations

    • Computer Information Technology
    • Data Science
    • Finance
    • General Management
    • Geography and Gis
    • Management of People
    • Managerial Leadership
    • Marketing and Consumer Insights
    • Project Management
    • Supply Chain Management
    • Healthcare Administration
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  4. #4

    Western Illinois University

    Macomb , IL
    #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2024 #7 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2024 #7 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Anthropology
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    47%

    Student body

    9K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Western Illinois University

    Cost of Degree: $12,693
    Expenses: $13,721
    Starting Salary: $74,479
    Salary after 4 years: $91,747
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Western Illinois University, one of the most prominent higher education institutions in the United States, has a track record of producing business experts. The Master of Business Administration at Western Illinois is among the best online MBA programs nationwide, providing students with an AACSB-accredited curriculum and reasonably priced tuition and fees.

    It aims to produce socially conscious leaders in a varied business environment. With no in-person requirements and no set log-in times, students enrolled in this online program benefit from a very flexible online learning experience.

    Western Illinois University students explore several core courses, including advanced topics in Accounting, Management, Economics, Finance, Management Information Systems, and Marketing. Students can tailor their degree programs and choose a concentration in Management and Supply Chain Management that best aligns with their goals.

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 33
    • Completion time: 1-1.5 Years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  5. #5

    National Louis University

    Chicago , IL
    #6 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Forensic Psychology Programs #13 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology #16 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024 #19 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    31%

    Student body

    10K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at National Louis University

    Cost of Degree: $12,171
    Starting Salary: $69,314
    Salary after 4 years: $84,889

    Known for offering several career-focused degrees, National Louis University has been a top training ground for business experts in Illinois. The school’s business education programs are matched with dedicated student support services and esteemed faculty to ensure students’ success.

    National Louis University’s Master of Business Administration is one of the best online MBA programs in Illinois, emphasizing leadership, diversity, hands-on problem-solving, and business knowledge. Online students can pursue fully online coursework or choose to pursue some courses on campus.

    Students will delve into an IACBE-accredited curriculum that includes advanced topics, such as Critical Thinking and Research Skills, Managerial Accounting, Technology and Leadership, and Strategic Marketing and Storytelling.

    Concentrations include:

    • Accounting
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Health Services Administration
    • Human Resource Management
    • Nonprofit Management
    • Design Thinking

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  7. #6

    North Central College

    Naperville , IL
    #5 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2024 #8 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2024 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2024 #14 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $43K

    Acceptance

    61%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1130/25

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at North Central College

    Cost of Degree: $15,822
    Expenses: $14,920
    Starting Salary: $71,361
    Salary after 4 years: $87,395
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    North Central College is one of the best colleges in Illinois, providing facilities and innovative programs to both online and on-campus students. North Central offers over 60 majors leading to degrees, including an online Master of Business Administration offered by the School of Business and Entrepreneurship. North Central University’s online MBA program focuses on helping students explore, challenge themselves, and prepare for their future, all with a commitment to personal growth and success.

    This online MBA program is designed for ambitious professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in the future without sacrificing their current commitments. In addition to rigorous online coursework, participants will also be able to connect with Chicago area business leaders through the college’s networking opportunities.

    Graduates gain valuable insights, an expanded professional network, and potential career growth, with a focus on business fundamentals, data analysis, global management, ethics, and diverse business concepts.

    Concentrations include:

    • International Business
    • Financial Management
    • Human Resource Management

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 1 year
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  8. #7

    Benedictine University

    Lisle , IL
    #4 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2024 #6 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2024 #13 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024 #19 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    93%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Benedictine University

    Cost of Degree: $20,239
    Expenses: $15,042
    Starting Salary: $76,955
    Salary after 4 years: $94,247
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Students seeking to develop advanced business skills in Catholic environment can consider enrolling at Benedictine University. The university’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a regionally accredited program that has made a commitment to values-driven leadership and ethical decision-making in the business world clear. It features an accelerated one-year option and a traditional two-year track.

    The program provides students with the abilities required for high-level business leadership positions. The curriculum covers key concepts like supply and demand, financial analysis, managerial economics, management, and team-building. Graduates will be able to navigate 21st-century challenges and market dynamics.

    Concentrations include:

    • Change Management
    • Digital Marketing
    • Project Management
    • Talent Management

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 32
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    9. young business professional sitting at a desk in front of a computer
  9. #8

    Aurora University

    Aurora , IL
    #4 Best Online Colleges for Students Who Work Part-Time #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Illinois #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2024 #12 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1089/22

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Aurora University

    Cost of Degree: $14,586
    Expenses: $16,602
    Starting Salary: $63,038
    Salary after 4 years: $77,202
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Aurora University is one of the most affordable choices for distance learners seeking to study in a high-quality graduate program. Online programs at Aurora, including its online MBA, follow the same curriculum and coursework as its on-campus programs.

    Aurora also offers several financial aid opportunities to reduce students’ financial worries.

    The Aurora Master of Business Administration offers customizable online classes designed to help business professionals enhance career opportunities and salary potential. Placing a strong emphasis on fundamental business concepts, the Aurora online MBA delves into critical areas such as marketing, organizational behavior, leadership, finance, and accounting. While no concentration is offered, online MBA students can pursue electives in Healthcare and Leadership.

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 1 Year
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  11. #9

    McKendree University

    Lebanon , IL
    #6 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2024 #9 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2024 #17 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Illinois 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at McKendree University

    Cost of Degree: $9,450
    Expenses: $15,300
    Starting Salary: $68,496
    Salary after 4 years: $83,886
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    McKendree University offers online degree programs emphasizing experiential learning, internships, service-learning, and research opportunities. The university’s School of Business offers several accredited online business programs, including an online Master of Business Administration program for working professionals. Online coursework is conducted in eight-week asynchronous sessions and allows students to focus on one course at a time.

    The McKendree online MBA provides students with IACBE-accredited coursework that equips them with the knowledge to enhance their business careers and advanced business skills for inventive problem-solving. This program promotes a complete understanding of real-world business processes, fostering critical and innovative thinking.

    Coursework explores various subjects, such as Accounting for Managers, Corporate Finance, Organizational Behavior, and Global Organizations and Management.

    Concentrations include:

    • General MBA
    • Corporate Finance
    • Cyber Defense
    • Digital Marketing
    • Human Resource Management

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  12. #10

    North Park University

    Chicago , IL
    #15 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024 #25 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at North Park University

    Cost of Degree: $14,184
    Expenses: $13,825
    Starting Salary: $62,219
    Salary after 4 years: $76,199
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Students seeking a Christian-centered university can explore North Park National University, one of the top private schools in the nation. The School of Business and Nonprofit Management at North Park offers some of the best degree programs in Illinois and prepares students for the business world, including accredited graduate degrees.

    North Park offers a flexible online Master of Business Administration that equips professionals with advanced knowledge and skills for ethical leadership roles in diverse sectors. Graduates will gain abilities in various business areas in the global context and be able to address ethical dilemmas within relevant frameworks. Online students can tailor their MBA degrees by choosing electives that lead to graduate business or nonprofit certificates.

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 21 months
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  13. #11

    Governors State University

    University Park , IL
    #10 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2024 #19 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees #11 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024 #16 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    57%

    Graduation

    21%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Governors State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,590
    Expenses: $15,100
    Starting Salary: $68,991
    Salary after 4 years: $84,987
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Governors State University is focused on guiding students toward their career paths with the help of the university’s excellent academic advisors. The university’s business programs equip students with a solid understanding of essential business concepts, ethics, and leadership skills, ensuring they are well-prepared for their professional journey.

    Governors State offers one of the most competitive 100% online MBA in Supply Chain Management degrees available. Accredited by the AACSB, the program’s curriculum prepares students for a career in managing international manufacturing processes.

    The program aims to provide students with the skills to optimize supply chains in various organizations through advanced courses. Students can complete the program requirements in as little as 18 months, making it a flexible and perfect option for professional progression.

    Online Master’s Degrees

    MBA in Supply Chain Management
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  14. #12

    Lewis University

    Romeoville , IL
    #4 Best Schools for Becoming an Air Traffic Controller in 2024 #13 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #20 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #5 Best Online Master's in Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    8K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1105/25

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Lewis University

    Cost of Degree: $14,960
    Expenses: $15,590
    Starting Salary: $73,135
    Salary after 4 years: $89,568
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Lewis University is a world-renowned liberal arts institution with practical, goal-oriented education programs available online. The Lewis College of Business is a top-performing business school that offers accelerated degree programs designed for adult students with existing work and family commitments.

    The web-based Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Lewis is known for its low student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, emphasizing a tight-knit online learning environment. This low ratio ensures that students receive personalized attention and support, enhancing the quality of their educational experience.

    The program’s curriculum, which the ACSBP acknowledges, is designed to address social and economic disruptions. Registered nurses seeking to broaden their knowledge of healthcare management can pursue an MSN/MBA dual degree option.

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 36-54
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  15. #13

    Dominican University

    River Forest , IL

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1015/19

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Dominican University

    Cost of Degree: $20,400
    Expenses: $13,622
    Starting Salary: $68,086
    Salary after 4 years: $83,385
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Recognized as one of the top schools for social mobility and innovation in the MidWest, Dominican University offers several opportunities for students seeking to advance their careers or explore new options. The Brennan School of Business at Dominican is one of the highest-ranked business school in Illinois, offering several online degrees, including a Master of Business Administration.

    The Brennan online MBA program offers an AACSB-accredited curriculum with collaborative small classes, real-world experiences, and an academic-practical balance, making it a top choice for prospective students. The curriculum includes modules covering leadership, ethics, problem-solving, finance, marketing, and operations, creating well-rounded business leaders. Students can also opt for elective courses or earn certificates for specialization.

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: 18 months
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  17. #14

    Olivet Nazarene University

    Bourbonnais , IL
    #12 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024 #15 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024 #22 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $38K

    Acceptance

    58%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Olivet Nazarene University

    Cost of Degree: $12,290
    Expenses: $13,540
    Starting Salary: $60,036
    Salary after 4 years: $73,526
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Olivet Nazarene University is one of the most progressive private institutions in Illinois, offering various programs, including business education. Its strong dedication to academic quality gives students excellent possibilities to succeed in their chosen industries. Olivet is also known for its generous transfer credit policies, accepting up to six transfer credits.

    The Master of Business Administration at ONU, offered by the McGraw School of Business, is a versatile online MBA program for busy working professionals. The curriculum equips students with essential business skills while providing elective options that lead to certificates.

    Students develop competence in communication, ethics, financial analysis, branding, problem-solving, change management, and leadership strategies.

    Concentrations include:

    • Corporate Communications
    • Healthcare Leadership
    • Intercultural Competence
    • Leadership
    • Nonprofit Management

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 1.5-2 Years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  18. #15

    University of St. Francis

    Joliet , IL
    #21 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    58%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1135/25

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of St. Francis

    Cost of Degree: $14,325
    Expenses: $15,230
    Starting Salary: $77,092
    Salary after 4 years: $94,414
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The University of St. Francis is famous for offering students valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth. One of its major programs is the online MBA offered by the College of Business and Health Administration. This accelerated degree program has an average completion time of 12 months.

    Online MBA students can complete the required online courses at their own pace, giving business professionals maximum flexibility and control over their schedules. Accredited by the ACBSP, the USF MBA offers an updated curriculum that prepares students for the competitive business landscape. It covers global issues, the corporate value chain, analytical thinking, leadership, and decision-making.

    Online Master’s Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 1 Year
    • Format: Online
    Compare school

Working professionals seeking to advance their business education and skills have a lot of online opportunities in Illinois. The state has a wide selection of online MBA programs, guaranteeing that people from different backgrounds and industries can find a program that matches their career goals and aspirations.

These online programs allow graduate students to continue working and applying what they’ve learned in real-world settings, gaining useful skills, growing professional networks, and pursuing leadership roles within their chosen sectors.

What are Illinois’s Colleges & Universities?

Illinois’s Best Overall

Learn more about what you can do with an MBA.

Students can pursue an online MBA program in any state, but a neighboring state can expand your choices of excellent degree programs. Students in Illinois may choose to explore programs in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, or Indiana. An online education can be a great option no matter your state of residence.

Why pursue an online MBA in Illinois?

In addition to being home to several world-renowned universities and business schools, Illinois is also at the forefront of business, technology, and healthcare.

There are over 1.2 million small businesses in Illinois, employing over 2.5 million people, accounting for 44.7 percent of the state’s workforce. Moreover, there are 35 Fortune 500 companies headquartered in the state and more than 2,000 foreign-based businesses. These numbers are clear indicators of booming business climate in Illinois.

The coexistence of small businesses, Fortune 500 companies, and international corporations in Illinois provides online MBA students with a diverse array of career opportunities. Whether you’re interested in joining a multinational corporation, launching a startup, or working with small businesses, Illinois offers a multitude of options to match your career aspirations.

Illinois also has a thriving cultural scene, a wide variety of culinary experiences, and many leisure activities in addition to its business opportunities. These enhance the overall quality of life and contribute to the enriching and delightful experience of earning and using an MBA in Illinois.

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Largest Employers of MBA Graduates in Illinois

Allstate Corp

Allstate is one of the top insurance companies in the country. Offering a variety of professional pathways in fields like finance, marketing, data analytics, and strategic planning, Allstate is a significant employer of recent MBA graduates. Allstate offers MBA professionals a stable and fulfilling work environment with opportunities to impact the insurance market.

Adjutant General

In the Illinois National Guard, the Adjutant General plays a pivotal role in supervising the management and administration of the state’s armed forces. This company is ideal for MBA graduates interested in government and military service.

State Farm Mutual Auto Insurance Company

Another significant participant in the insurance market is State Farm, which provides several opportunities for MBA graduates in several disciplines, such as operations, marketing, finance, and IT. Because of its reputation for embracing technology and innovation, State Farm attracts individuals interested in working on cutting-edge insurance solutions.

Along with these three well-known firms, Illinois has various businesses and industries that respect MBA skills. With its thriving financial, technological, healthcare, and consulting sectors, Chicago, in particular, offers MBA graduates a wealth of chances to put their knowledge and experience to use.

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Student Submitted Questions about Online MBA Programs in Illinois

Do online MBA programs in Illinois require the GMAT?

The GMAT is still required by many graduate schools of all shapes and sizes — elite research universities, public universities, liberal arts colleges, online colleges, etc. There’s no real common denominator for which types of schools require the GMAT or don’t.

If you are considering a graduate business school that requires the GMAT, then you certainly want to do well on the exam. Even if schools you’re considering don’t require it, you may want to take the test because a high score could still help your application and because there may be another college that suddenly interests you, and it might require successful completion of the GMAT.

What are the admission requirements for online MBA programs in Illinois?

Admission requirements vary from school to school. For instance, colleges and universities with lower acceptance rates may require more competitive application materials than those with a 100% acceptance rate.

Most MBA programs require applicants to earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Some programs may specify the preferred undergraduate major, often in a related field such as business, economics, or engineering. However, many MBA programs also accept students from diverse academic backgrounds.

Additionally, some MBA programs, mainly those considered more prestigious or competitive, prefer candidates with prior work experience. The required work experience can range from a few years to a decade. This work experience is often seen as an indicator of your ability to apply the knowledge gained in the program to real-world situations.

However, there are a few general MBA admission requirements at most schools, including:

  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Statement of Purpose or Essay
  • Interview
  • Transcripts and Academic Records
  • Resume
  • English Language Proficiency Test

How long does it take to get an online MBA?

Typically, an online MBA can be earned in about two years. However, specializations range from healthcare management to entrepreneurship to international business. Because online MBAs offer so many educational paths, program requirements can vary greatly, from 30 to 60 credits, which means this degree may take anywhere between two and four years to complete.

However, an accelerated online MBA program can take as little as 12 months of full-time study to complete.

What are the courses in an online MBA program in Illinois like?

MBA courses are available both online and on campus, and many programs require a thesis or professional experience component. Students will study topics like corporate law, organizational behavior, and negotiations.

Most online MBA programs will be asynchronous for maximum flexibility. This means students watch lectures and read when they can and likely join web forums for class discussions. While online MBA courses can be “self-paced,” there usually are still mid-term and end-of-term deadlines. Typical online MBA courses will have multiple deadlines throughout the semester for various assignments.

What can you do with an MBA in Illinois?

MBA graduates can advance to leadership roles in accounting, finance, human resources, organizational administration, and more. MBAs are popular because of their versatility. With so many choices of concentrations, your MBA can prepare you for leadership or executive roles in virtually any industry.

Illinois is just one of many states offering excellent online MBA programs. To check out our rankings, look into the best online associate’s degrees in Alaska, Rhode Island, Maine, and more!

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