As online MBA programs continue to grow in number and popularity, one critical question remains: how do you separate truly elite programs from the rest?
At Solomon Admissions Consulting, we work with applicants navigating this exact decision. I’ve advised hundreds of prospective MBA students, and I also hold an MBA from a top-tier U.S. program myself. In this post—and in the video below—I’ll walk you through the key characteristics that define an elite online MBA program and what red flags to avoid.
It’s Not About the Format
What defines an elite online MBA?
An elite program isn’t measured by its delivery but by its reputation, faculty quality, career services, alumni outcomes, accreditation, and flexibility.
The most important thing to understand is this: elite MBA programs are not defined by their delivery format. Whether a program is online, in-person, or hybrid, its quality comes down to the same foundational elements:
- The brand and reputation of the university
- The strength and expertise of the faculty
- The caliber of the career services team
- The quality and reach of the alumni network
- Program structure, flexibility, and support
Faculty Credentials Matter
Always research the faculty profiles. Are instructors PhD-holding experts in business? Have they worked with professionals in real-world business environments? Great faculty not only teach but mentor students through complex business challenges and transitions.
Career Support Should Be Strong and Personalized
Many students pursue an MBA to move up within their company or pivot to a new industry. The right program will have a career services team experienced in working with professionals. These individuals should have strong ties to relevant industries and a track record of helping students make meaningful career moves.
Ask tough questions:
- Are there dedicated career coaches?
- What companies hire graduates?
- Do alumni land jobs aligned with your goals?
The Alumni Network Is a Window Into Your Future
A strong alumni network signals real-world success. Reach out to graduates:
- Are they in leadership roles?
- Do they speak highly of the career support they received?
- Would they choose the program again?
If alumni aren’t achieving the outcomes you’re seeking—or if the school can’t connect you to any—consider that a red flag.
Accreditation Signals Quality
How important is accreditation?
Very. AACSB accreditation is a global benchmark for business school rigor and employer recognition.
Look for AACSB accreditation. It’s a widely recognized marker of quality among business schools and provides a baseline assurance that the program meets rigorous academic and professional standards.
“Employers recognize the value of AACSB-accredited institutions; many solely hire graduates from schools with this distinction.” University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Rankings Are Helpful—but Just a Starting Point
Do MBA rankings matter?
They’re a great starting point—but don’t stop there. Use rankings to identify programs, then dig deeper into what really counts for you.
MBA rankings can help you narrow your options, but don’t stop there. Use them as a shortcut to identify potential programs, then do deeper research into the factors listed above.
Well-regarded online MBA programs like those at Indiana University, University of Florida, UNC-Chapel Hill, University of Michigan, and USC tend to score highly because they check all the boxes: strong faculty, flexible delivery, excellent career support, and impressive outcomes.
Flexibility and Program Structure Are Key for Working Professionals
Online MBAs vary widely in format:
- Fully asynchronous: Study on your own schedule
- Live synchronous: Join real-time classes or discussions via Zoom
- Hybrid: A mix of self-paced and live components
Each format has pros and cons. Make sure the structure works with your lifestyle—and that any in-person components (such as networking weekends or global immersions) are feasible for your schedule and budget.
Know the True Cost—and the ROI. Is an online MBA worth it?
Online programs can carry additional costs:
- Travel for on-campus events
- Technology fees
- International immersion trips
Ask how many credit hours are required and what the per-credit cost is. Then, compare that against average post-MBA salary outcomes, factoring in your own experience level and goals. This is your return on investment (ROI)—and it’s a critical part of your decision-making process.
Poets and Quants has a good article that can help you understand the factors to consider in determining the ROI of an MBA.
Specializations Can Add Value
If you have a specific career interest—say, data analytics, digital marketing, or sustainability—look for programs offering relevant specializations. Then, research:
- Which companies recruit from that track?
- What elective courses are available?
- Are there experiential learning opportunities tied to your interest?
Watch for Red Flags
Avoid programs that:
- Lack AACSB accreditation
- Have poor alumni career outcomes
- Can’t connect you to alumni working in your target industry
- Offer weak or generic career services
If it feels like you’re not getting clear answers—or like you’re on your own when it comes to job placement—move on.
Final Thoughts
Online MBA programs can offer tremendous value for working professionals—but only if they align with your goals. Do the research. Talk to alumni. Speak with faculty. Examine the program’s structure, cost, and career outcomes.
If you’d like help choosing the right program or need support throughout the admissions process, we’re here for you at Solomon Admissions Consulting. Contact us today! We’ll help you make an informed, confident decision.
Sources:
Former Associate Director of Admissions at Columbia Business School
Former Acting Director of the MBA Program, Johns Hopkins University Carey Business School
1 Year in Columbia Business School Admissions
2 Years in Johns Hopkins Carey Business School Admissions
10,000+ Applications Read and Evaluated
Dr. Bernadine J. Dykes is a Professor of Management and Associate Dean of the School of Business at Shenandoah University. She received her Ph.D. in Strategic Management from Michigan State University, her MBA from the Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia, and her BBA (cum laude) from Howard University. She is also a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
