Online MBA
Online MBA
Advance your career with the AACSB-accredited Online MBA from the GW School of Business, a flexible, part-time program designed for working professionals. Blending rigorous business fundamentals with leadership training, strategic thinking and advanced business analytics, the program prepares you to navigate a rapidly changing global marketplace.
Influenced by our Washington, D.C. location—where business, government and global institutions converge—the Online MBA program brings the perspective of the nation’s capital into a dynamic virtual learning experience that connects theory with real-world impact.
Flexible, Fully Online Format
Designed for working professionals, allowing you to balance career, education and personal commitments.
Capital Advantage
Engage with the global hub of business, policy and innovation through projects, guest speakers and an optional four-day residency in Washington, D.C.
Experiential Learning Opportunities
Develop strategic thinking through case studies, collaborative coursework and hands-on business applications. Study abroad opportunities available.
World-Class Faculty
Learn from accomplished scholars and industry leaders who pair real-world expertise with innovative teaching methods to bring complex business concepts to life.
Nationally Ranked. Globally Respected.
- #1 Women in Full-Time MBA, Financial Times Top 100 MBA Worldwide (2024-25)
- # 5 Gender Diversity, LinkedIn Top MBA Programs (2025)
- #8 Best MBA for Marketing, The Princeton Review (2025)
- #10 Best MBA for Management, The Princeton Review (2025)
- #25 Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans, U.S. News and World Report (2026)
Jump to: Curriculum | Info Sessions | Admissions | Tuition & Funding | Careers | Meet Your Team | FAQs
Program at a Glance
Total Credits: 46.5 | Commitment: Part-Time | Delivery: Online | Average Completion: 2.5 Years | Entry Semester: Fall, Spring, Summer
Through live weekly sessions, collaborative coursework and real-world business applications, students build the analytical and leadership skills needed to solve complex business challenges. Grounded in ethical leadership, corporate citizenship and a global perspective, the program prepares graduates to lead with confidence, develop effective strategies, navigate global markets and drive innovation within their organizations.
Sample Courses:
Advanced Business Strategy
- Operations Management
- Marketing
- Strategic Management
- Technology Skills for Managers
Leadership & Global Context
- Competition in the Global Economy
- Organizations and Human Capital
- Business Ethics and Public Policy
- Technology for Business in DC
Financial & Data Analysis
- Financial Accounting
- Finance
- Decision Making and Data Analysis
- Accounting for Internal Decision Making
- Microeconomics for the World Economy
- Flexible, Interactive Online Learning
- GW’s Online MBA combines live engagement with asynchronous flexibility to create a dynamic learning experience.
- Courses include a weekly one-hour live classroom session, offered evenings or weekends, that feature lectures, case discussions and group activities.
- Real-time interaction allows students to collaborate with faculty and classmates.
- Sessions are recorded and available on demand, allowing you to learn on your schedule.
- Most students take two courses per semester (six credits) to maintain steady progress.
- Faculty host online office hours to provide personalized guidance, answer questions and discuss assignment feedback.
- Experiential Coursework
- Coursework is designed to connect theory with real-world business challenges.
- Short-term and long-term study abroad program options are available.
- Learn from faculty who advise Fortune 500 companies and help shape policy in Washington, D.C.
- Analyze real ventures through platforms such as Wefunder.
- Participate in live negotiation exercises and consulting projects with real companies.
- Study alongside professionals from diverse industries—from surgeons to technology leaders.
View Curriculum + Degree Requirements
Maximize Your ROI: Customize Your Online MBA
- Dual Degree Opportunity: MBA + MSPM
Students looking to customize an MBA program on a larger scale can pursue multiple joint or dual degree options within not only the School of Business but also the GW Law School and Elliott School of International Affairs. Complement your MBA with a specialized masters.
By sharing some credits, students spend less time and less money than they would if the degrees were earned individually. Students are required to apply to both programs separately.
- Graduate Certificates: Deepen Your Knowledge at No Additional Cost
Tailor your MBA to your professional goals by adding a graduate certificate that builds specialized expertise alongside your core business education. These stackable certificates allow you to deepen your knowledge in a focused area while completing your MBA coursework—at no additional credit cost.
Choose from the following 12-credit graduate certificates or explore all certificate options:
Financial Management
Build a strong foundation in corporate finance, including capital acquisition, investment strategy, value creation for stakeholders and responsible profit distribution.
Human Capital
Develop strategic HR and talent management expertise. Learn how to align people strategies with organizational goals, from workforce development to organizational behavior.
Management Leadership
Strengthen your leadership capabilities across all organizational levels. Focus on building self-awareness, inspiring teams and leading innovation.
Project Management
Gain practical tools and techniques for leading complex projects across industries, based on frameworks established by the Project Management Institute (PMI).
Learn More: Attend an Info Session
Admissions
Admission to GW's Online MBA program is competitive, with limited enrollment to support a collaborative, cohort-based learning experience.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submission is encouraged.
Our admissions team is here to guide you through the process and answer any questions along the way. Learn more about application requirements and next steps on our How to Apply page.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submission is encouraged. The admissions committee takes a holistic approach, considering academic performance, professional experience and achievements, and letters of recommendation.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities
- Current résumé
- Statement of Purpose: In no more than 500 words, describe how this program fits into your professional life and your career objectives.
- One letter of recommendation from a professional and/or academic reference
- Application fee (non-refundable)
- Completed online application form
No GRE or GMAT is required. However, applicants who feel their test scores strengthen their candidacy are welcome to submit them.
Applicants who require a visa to study in the United States must also fulfill additional requirements in order to be considered for admission to a graduate program at the School of Business.
Application Deadlines
Candidates seeking financial assistance and international students requiring visas are encouraged to apply early. Only completed applications, with all required materials, will be considered for admission.
- Spring 2026 - Closed
- Summer 2026 - April 15, 2026
- Fall 2026 - April 15, 2026
Please note: Admission to the Global MBA, Accelerated MBA, Master of Accountancy in Accounting Analytics, M.S. in Applied Finance, and M.S. in Business Analytics programs is only offered for the fall semester. Summer admissions deadlines apply only to our online MBA and Specialized Master's degree programs. Admission to all other programs is only offered for the fall and spring semesters. Additionally, our doctoral and executive education programs may have different admissions deadlines.
Tuition, Fees & Funding
Funding your graduate education is an important step in your journey, and there are a number of resources that can help you navigate tuition information, costs and fees and financial aid opportunities.
A Scholarship Built Into Your Degree
If you’re accepted to our Online MBA program for the Summer or Fall 2026 semesters, you’ll automatically receive a scholarship to save up to 25% off tuition.
No additional applications. No special requirements. Just a world-class education that’s more affordable.
Career Outlook
An MBA opens the door to a wide range of leadership roles across industries—from consulting to finance to technology—while expanding career opportunities and increasing earning potential. In fact, the median annual starting salary for MBA graduates is $129,900 (Source: Lightcast). But what specific types of jobs can you get with an MBA? Explore where your MBA can take you in your career.
View median salary ranges for common career paths pursued by MBA graduates, reflecting the versatility and earning potential of the degree:
| Job Title | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Business Intelligence Analyst | $112K |
| Chief Executives | $206K |
| Financial and Investment Analyst | $101K |
| Financial Managers | $161K |
| General and Operations Managers | $103K |
| Human Resources Manager | $140K |
| Information Systems Manager | $173K |
| Management Analyst | $101K |
| Marketing Managers | $161K |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | $118K |
- Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024) | |
Where GW Alumni Are Leading
Our graduates step into advanced positions in consulting, finance, technology, healthcare and beyond—leading teams, shaping strategy and driving organizational success.
- Amazon
- Apple
- Dell
- Deloitte
- Delta
- Distributed Sun
- IBM
- IFC
- JP Morgan Chase & Co.
- Pepsico
Career Support
Personalized Career Coaching
Experienced career coaches—who have a proven track record of supporting student placement and career advancement—help refine your goals and build an effective job search strategy.
Dedicated Career Center
Gain exclusive access to employer connections, recruiting opportunities and career resources through the GW Business F. David Fowler Career Center.
Mentorship Opportunities
Participate in the Careers360 program to connect with industry mentors in consulting, finance or marketing.
Global Alumni Network
With more than 60,000 alumni spanning 260+ organizations, Fortune 500 companies, startups, and nonprofits around the world, you’ll gain access to mentorship, connections, and career opportunities that open doors and accelerate your impact.
Meet Your Team
Admissions Director
Faculty Director
Academic Advisor
Frequently Asked Questions
- MBA vs. Master’s in Management: What’s the Difference?
The MBA at GW Business emphasizes an advanced, real-world business education with a focus on strategy, operations and decision-making. The MS in Management focuses on leadership essentials and core business knowledge.
We've put together a guide to explore the differences and help you decide which might be the best fit.
Read the full article "MBA vs. Master in Management (MiM): What's The Difference?"
- Do I need professional work experience to apply to the Online MBA program?
Accepted students typically have at least two years of full-time, post-undergraduate professional experience at the time of entry to the program. However, GW does not have a minimum work experience requirement for admission.
The admissions committee considers work experience, including internships and cooperative education assignments, but those experiences are usually considered supplementary. Military experience and non-traditional backgrounds will be strongly considered when evaluating applications.
- Is an MBA worth it?
Absolutely. An MBA equips you with the business knowledge and leadership skills to significantly enhance your career prospects. According to a 2025 recruiters survey from the Graduate Management Admissions Council, roughly two-thirds of employers believe full business degrees are more effective for employee success than micro-credentials alone.
- In what modalities is the MBA program offered?
In addition to the Online MBA, we offer on-campus options for those seeking an in-person experience.
- Can on-campus MBA students take online courses and vice versa?
Yes, students enrolled in the on-campus MBA may be eligible to take online courses if space is available. Similarly, online students may take on-campus courses, subject to availability.
Latest News
GW Business Takes a Step Forward in Online Rankings
January 27, 2026
M.B.A. Student Architects a Story of Ambition and Resilience
November 19, 2025
GW Business Students Gain Firsthand Insights at Gallup Foundation
November 5, 2025
MBA Mavericks Win The First Buff & Blue Cup
October 30, 2025