Master of Business Administration

Location

Curriculum

36 credit hours

Program Length

as few as 18 months

Accreditation

Regionally Accredited by SACSCOC

Take the Next Step — Earn Your MBA in 18 Months

Now is your time to thrive as a professional. Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Are you a recent graduate looking to build your business skills? Or perhaps you are looking to build the skills required to transition into the world of business. No matter what your background, CIU’s 100% online Master of Business Administration (MBA) is where you can develop your organizational, leadership, and management capabilities to their fullest potential. Our MBA is designed to help you study an advanced core of business-related disciplines, theories, and practices. Each class centers on effective and ethical leadership and management, rooted in solid business principles.

At CIU you can earn your degree on your schedule. With 100% online, 6-week classes and multiple start dates throughout the year, there is no set login times for classes and classwork. This program is built to work for your lifestyle.

Through this program, you will learn how to work efficiently and collaborate with others, as well as develop your strategic thinking to understand what steps an organization needs to take to drive them to success. You will be able to evaluate markets, and develop creative plans for growth. Through it all, Columbia International University seeks to teach you this from an ethical perspective. Our program will equip you with the tools you need to succeed.

CIU now offers the MBA in a hybrid format where you can learn in class AND online! Students that choose the Hybrid modality of learning will be required to physically attend any class designated for seat time on the first and fourth Monday from 6:00-9:00 PM. Six of the twelve courses, or two per term, of the Hybrid MBA program will have residential components. 

Next online class starts April 8, 2024
Abby Heinzel

“After graduating at CIU from Master of Business Administration in 2019, Abby was hired to work at French Business Academy where she leads. She ministers to professionals who have difficult family challenges in a nurturing Christian environment.”

Abby Heinzel, ‘20

Why Choose Columbia International University’s Online MBA?

Columbia International University’s MBA is fully accredited with 6-week, 100% online classes that can be accessed 24/7. No GMAT or GRE required. You can finish your MBA in just 18 months and work the classes around your schedule. Classes are taught by industry professionals who prepare you for today’s workforce.

Benefits of a CIU Online MBA Degree

Columbia International University is distinguished from other colleges and universities by its missional focus and strong core values. CIU Global students experience the integration of truth and rigorous academic learning in a solid online program. It's delivered through a robust, yet intuitive, Learning Management System, supported by a team committed to meeting the unique needs of learners. 

An MBA (Master’s in Business Administration) is one of the most versatile degrees you can get in today’s world. Gaining mastery in business principles and organizational leadership skills is one of the most useful and applicable educational career paths. You are almost guaranteed a solid job with this degree.

The skills you gain open opportunities at a wide range of organizations, and provide the knowledge and tools you need to create your own business. You will handle increasing levels of responsibility with skills and insight that help you professionally and personally. Your ability to grow as a diligent, wise, competent and creative manager will pay long- term dividends.

  • Highly Engaged Classes: The business degree online classrooms are filled with passionate professors who will teach you relevant and impactful information that will shape you as a professional. Mock business situations ensure you have real-world experiences, preparing you for your career.
  • Dedicated Faculty and Staff: Our professors and staff ensure that you have the resources and information you need to be successful, including on-demand tutoring.
  • Networking Opportunities: You will have access to a network of career opportunities and internships throughout your studies.
  • Transfer-Friendly Programs: From any college, anywhere, we provide transfer-friendly programs that allow you to enroll from where you left off in your previous studies.
  • Flexibility in Programs: While you study in the business degrees, you have free reign to try out any other programs that CIU has to offer. Programs are designed with the working professional in mind.

Concentrations

Specialize in Finance while earning your MBA 100% online with Columbia International University. Position yourself as a leader in the corporate world with forward-thinking approaches to accounting and economic strategy.

An MBA with a concentration in healthcare management can give you several advantages, including credentials to move into leadership roles, greater earning potential, and entry into a growing industry. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the number of medical and health service manager jobs will grow by 20% through 2026. Furthermore, salaries for professionals in the healthcare management field often reach up to six figures.

Earning an MBA with a concentration in healthcare management opens up multiple job opportunities. To those aiming to become the director of a hospital should consider getting their MBA in healthcare management. That said, professionals who graduated with this degree also go on to work for nonprofit and for-profit health organizations as financial managers, consultants, and administrators.

What Will I Study?

You will take the following classes to earn your MBA:

  • BUS 5010 Business Research and Data Analysis

    The purpose of this course is to prepare you in mathematical, probability, and statistical concepts for your upcoming studies in quantitative methods. Topics include research design, measurement issues, the sources and collection of data. Ethical issues associated with the conduct of research will also be explored. (3) Limited to online program students.

    3.00 credit hours
  • BUS 5020 Organizational Leadership and Ethics

    This course explores the key principles, models, and practices that provide the foundation for effective, ethical organizational leadership and management. Best practices of leadership and management are examined and evaluated as applied to the dynamics of understanding organizational behavior, building cohesive teams, and developing healthy organizations. Ethical and corporate social responsibility (CSR) models and decision making in both for-profit and not-for-profit entities will be addressed. Special emphasis on analyzing and integrating the values and ethics from a Christian worldview will challenge individuals to formulate one's own philosophy of organizational leadership and healthy organizations. (3) Limited to online program students.

    3.00 credit hours
  • BUS 5030 Organizational Behavior and Change Management

    This course examines the dynamics of organizational behaviors, as well as how the major organizational factors such as design and structures, change management, and learning organization significantly impact organizational effectiveness and business outcomes. (3) Limited to online program students.

    3.00 credit hours
  • BUS 5040 Information Systems and Technology for Business

    This course examines the role of information systems and technology in today's rapidly changing business environment and analyzes technology's implications for efficient management of operations. (3) Limited to online program students.

    3.00 credit hours
  • BUS 5050 Marketing

    A course designed to explore the main aspects of strategic marketing theories and concepts and their global applications. This course examines the marketing process, marketing research, product development innovation and diffusion, pricing strategy, distribution value drain, advertising and promotion, and strategic marketing issues. This course is designed to equip the students with the concepts and principles necessary to make market oriented business decisions and to enable students to plan, design and critique marketing promotional materials and campaigns within the framework of an ethical perspective. (3) Limited to online program students.

    3.00 credit hours
  • BUS 5060 Business Law

    This course examines the legal and regulatory environment of business within the U.S. and in a global context. Key legal terms and scenarios for organizational leaders will be addressed as well, including employment law, contracts and negotiations, and organizational structures. (3) Limited to online program students.

    3.00 credit hours
  • BUS 6010 Managerial Finance

    This course focuses on the critical financial issues and decisions facing organizational leaders and business executives. Key concepts covered in the course include analysis of financial statements, time value of money, cost of capital, working capital management, and cash flow forecasting. Using these tools, students will learn to evaluate and determine the value of organizations and proposed capital projects. (3) Limited to online program students

    3.00 credit hours
  • BUS 6020 Accounting for Financial Reporting and Management

    This course explores the use of accounting information for planning, control and decision-making. Students develop analytical and applied skills through problems and cases that focus on preparing, reporting, and analyzing financial data. Special emphasis focuses on ethical reporting and on potential misuses of financial information. Topics covered include the principles and practices of financial accounting and the fundamentals of managerial accounting, such as cost behavior and budgeting. (3) Limited to online program students.

    3.00 credit hours
  • BUS 6030 International Business

    This course presents an analysis of the impact of geographic, political, social, economic, legal, and technological influences on business enterprise conducted across national boundaries. The course also explores best practices and various business strategies for successfully launching and engaging in business activity outside the U.S. Students also acquire familiarity with international institutions engaged in promoting international trade and financial transactions. (3) Limited to online program students.

    3.00 credit hours
  • BUS 6040 Operations and Quality Management

    This course focuses on the basic principles and tools required for efficient and effective operations management. It explores key concepts and dynamics such as productivity, project management, quality concepts, statistical controls, supply chain management, inventory management, forecasting, and material requirements. (3) Limited to online program students.

    3.00 credit hours
  • BUS 6050 Strategic Planning and Management

    This course emphasizes the definition, formulation, and execution of strategy to successfully define and implement organizational vision, mission, and strategic goals. The strategies of for-profit entities will focus on achieving and sustaining competitive advantage against rival firms, while strategies of not-for-profit organizations emphasize strategic positioning to effectively serve the organizations key stakeholders. As this is intended to be a capstone experience within the program, students normally will enroll in this course during their second year. (3) Limited to online program students.

    3.00 credit hours
  • ECN 6010 Economics for Business Management

    This course provides the concepts and principles required for understanding and solving economic business problems. The course especially focuses on microeconomic analysis applied to practical business problems and decision-making -- such as factors relevant to production, cost, demand, pricing, and profits -- and also on monetary and fiscal policies that affect industries, markets, and firms. (3) Limited to online program students.

    3.00 credit hours
For a comprehensive list of courses related to this program visit the Academic Catalog.

Admission Requirements

  • NO GRE or GMAT REQUIRED
  • Online application
  • Official transcripts for bachelor’s degree and any master’s degree work
  • Bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.0 GPA

Accreditation and Accolades

SACSCOC (The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges)

Career Path Opportunities

With an online MBA, you will increase your opportunities for career advancement and a competitive salary. You’ll also learn to be an effective leader in diverse fields, including law, accounting, international business, finance and marketing. Career options include professions such as:

  • CEO
  • CFO
  • Chief Technology Officer
  • General Manager
  • Customer Relations Manager
  • Business Analyst
  • Director of Operations
  • Sales Manager
  • General Manager
  • Customer Relations Manager
  • Management Consultant

Top FAQs

What is an MBA?

An MBA, or Master’s in Business Administration is an advanced course that is typically taken after one finishes their bachelor’s degree. Through this master’s degree, you will build on your previous educational foundation and sharpen your knowledge with advanced lessons through the world of business. This degree offers fundamental management knowledge, granting you a precise view of business across departments such as finance, accounting, and marketing while developing crucial leadership skills. No matter your background, if you are interested in learning management skills, then an MBA is definitely for you. This degree assists you in creating and managing institutions, companies and industries effectively.

What career opportunities are available with an online MBA?

An online MBA opens career paths such as accountant, finance manager, global manager, human resources manager or even health care administrator.

Other potential options include:
Logistics Manager Operation Research Analyst

With a wide range of possibilities, the MBA gives you a springboard to a rewarding career in many areas. Building your professional skills and credentials with an MBA is a steppingstone to higher salaries. According to research, attaining your MBA is one of the best investments you can make for your career.

  • Financial Analyst
  • Human Resource manager
  • Investment Banker
  • Budget Analyst
  • Policy Analyst
  • Consultant
  • IT Manager
  • Product manager
  • Chief Executive Officer
  • Chief Financial Officer
  • Sales Manager
What can I do with an MBA?

The choices and opportunities given through an MBA degree are almost endless. You can go from starting businesses, to accentuating business success, analyzing finances successfully, and making effective creative choices to grow a brand. You’ll know how to market a company, effectively manage the members of your team, and decide on the best kind of budget for any financial situation. You’ll be prepared to be:

Accountant: Preparing and organizing financial records for individuals and companies, while making sure everything is accurate and that tax returns and statements are completed accurately, and on time. Investment Banker: Selling equity in companies, and providing advice to help clients with investment opportunities. Human Resources Manager: Overseeing recruiting and hiring, and working to create long-term plans while handling disciplinary protocols. And many more …

Does an MBA increase salary?

Getting an MBA has the possibility of boosting your pay significantly. If you combine your years of experience and the company you are working with, an MBA can aid you in earning a much larger paycheck.

According to the Graduate Management Admission Council, the average starting salary for an MBA is $105,000 per year. With additional years of professional experience, salaries increase. Making the choice to devote the time and money to earning an online MBA is an investment that will pay you back many times over.

Can I get an MBA online?

Of course, you can! CIU offers online MBA programs that are just as effective as classes offered in person. Also, it doesn’t matter where you are in the country, or even around the world, you can earn your MBA from CIU, allowing you the opportunity to continue to work, and providing you accessibility anytime from anywhere. Over 40% percent of students around the world are currently attending classes online.

CIU’s online business degrees began early in the 2019–2020 school year, and have been some of our most prolific and effective degrees to date.

How long does it take to get an MBA?

You can finish your MBA in just 18 months! Our online degrees offer students a flexible schedule that works well for people who have full-time jobs. It allows you to effectively finish your classes and focus on other things in your life. The classes are designed with the understanding that your education is a part-time commitment. You can balance your education, your career, and manage personal responsibilities. The classes are designed for flexibility.

When can I start my MBA?

With multiple starts dates throughout the year, it is easy to get started! We have specifically designed our classes for people who are attending college part time. Many working students try to balance their education and career, as well as personal responsibilities. Fill out the application and go with the start time that works best for you. If needed, you can also delay your start time once you are accepted. Online courses are made to be flexible and comfortable for your own pacing. Whether you are in a full-time job, or a stay-home student, no matter where you are, you can find a time to begin your MBA.

How much does an MBA cost?

For a standard, 36 credit hour, online MBA, tuition and fees come to just over $20,000. Learn more by checking the online tuition and fees schedule. There are certain discounts and benefits given for military status, and to employees and family members of our partner organizations. Our financial aid counselors will help you determine the best way to finance this important investment in your future career earnings. For more detailed information, check our financial aid page and select option for online students.

Do you need the GRE or GMAT for CIU’s online MBA?

You do not need a GRE or GMAT for CIU’s online MBA. While many universities require these scores for admission to their master’s degrees, CIU believes a record of academic achievement from your previous institution suffices. We do not want to put any obstacles between you and your goals.

We want to make sure that your degree choice, isn’t determined by a test score.

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