Top 50 Online Master’s in Marketing Management Degree Programs

Business Management is multi-faceted, with each area playing an important role to the overall success of an organization. Finance, product development, human resource management, law, ethics, and strategic planning is all important. But if there is no relationship between the organization or product and the a consumer, then none of the other areas can make much of a difference. That is where marketing and marketing managers emerge to make a major impact in the life of an organization.

Marketing managers are responsible for developing the customer base of a company, researching customer's needs, and fostering relationships with customers. In our global and digital marketplace today, the role of a marketing manager also expands to navigate the customer relationship beyond the traditional avenues and moves it online to company websites and social media as well. Managerial expertise in these areas is critical to companies when planning marketing strategies for successful multichannel digital communications.

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A graduate degree with expertise in marketing management can set professionals apart as skilled and knowledgeable in navigating this crucial relationship. There are multiple programs available for professionals looking to make the next step in their education, including Marketing MBAs, Master's of Science in Marketing, and more specialized master's degrees focusing on different aspects of marketing or communications. An online marketing master's degree is additionally advantageous for students because they give optimal flexibility. An online degree program allows students to manage their current professional and personal responsibilities while gaining the critical degree to help them reach their next step in their career. Here is our list of the Top 50 Online Marketing Management Master's Degrees.

Methodology

The goal of this ranking was to get the best online degree available in the area of marketing management. A list of almost 200 school programs was obtained and then vetted based on the following six factors:

Flexibility: Students looking for online programs value flexibility. Each school in this ranking was valued based on whether their program was offered entirely online. Programs offered 100% online, or with one initial campus requirement, was give a full score. Programs that required more on-campus visits were then deducted because of a more limited flexibility.

Estimated Tuition Cost: When looking at future programs and future careers, affordability should always be taken into account. Each program was valued based on the estimated tuition. The tuition of each program was gathered from the most recent date given on their specific program or school website. The lowest tuition on the list was $8,200.44 and the highest came in at $104,664.12. The median tuition rate came in at $31,158.

Accreditation: Accreditation always matters. Not only is it an outside party giving testimony to the quality of a program, but it adds to the brand of a school, which inevitably adds to each students marketability. Every single program in this ranking is accredited by one of the six regional higher accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The programs in the business schools and accredited with additional business accreditations were scored higher. These accredited bodies were IACBE, ACBSP, and AACSB. AACSB International-accredited business schools were given the highest marks, as they are seen as the most elite business schools in the nation.

PayScale Early Career Salary: This data was taken from the 2015-2016 PayScale College Salary Report. This report gives a ranking from over 1,000 schools by salary potential. This gives students an idea on the average salary from graduates early on in their career, as well as their mid-career salary. Adding this criterion with the average cost gives students a good idea of their potential Return on Investment. The lowest early career salary in the ranking is $40,500 with the highest at $100,000. The median early-career salary is $62,250.

Prestige and Awards: Data for this criterion was taken from the rankings on US News and World Report and the Princeton Review. Schools were valued on how many rankings and awards they were given from two of the most prestigious education sites today.

Overall Graduation Rates: Each school's overall graduation rate was collected from the National Center for Education Statistics. This factor shows a pattern on student satisfaction. Were students motivated to finish their degrees and shown the value of the time and money they were investing? The higher the graduation rate, the higher perceived value the students had in their time, energy, and financial investment.

After gathering the data for each criterion, all data was weighted the same and then put in ranking order. By weighing the flexibility, accreditation, tuition cost, early career salary, prestige and awards, and graduation rates, we are confident that this ranking can help potential marketing managers find the highest quality online degree for them.

#50 Saint Leo University Donald R. Tapia School of Business – Saint Leo, Florida

Saint Leo University is a four-year, private, nonprofit, Catholic university that was founded in 1889 by the Order of Saint Benedict of Florida. Saint Leo offers high quality undergraduate and graduate, on-campus and online degree programs, to over 16,000 students across the globe. The university is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The Donald R. Tapia School of Business is the largest Catholic business school in the country, with more than 8,000 students enrolled in their online programs. The IACBE-accredited Tapia School of Business's mission is to provide a values-centered education that develops tomorrow's business leaders. Among the online programs available, is an online Master of Business Administration degree, with two different concentrations focused on marketing.

This MBA will start students in fundamental business courses in order for them to build a strong foundation to become successful business leaders. This program offers a concentration in marketing, as well as in Marketing Research and Social Media Analytics. The Marketing concentration explores general marketing concepts with the following courses available to choose from: Global Marketing, Sales Management, Advertising and Promotion, Marketing Innovations and New Product Development, Brand Management, E-Marketing, and Marketing Research. The Marketing Research and Social Media Analytics concentration trains students to use advanced marketing data analytical tools and framework to gain marketing insights and influence business decisions. Courses within this concentration include: Marketing Research, Data Mining, Gamification Applications in Marketing, Web Analytics, and Social Media Marketing GR.

The online programs at Saint Leo accept applications on a rolling basis and offer six convenient start dates throughout the year. Applications should be completed 60 days before the beginning of desired start of term. Official GMAT scores are required for students with an undergraduate GPA under 3.0.

Estimated Program Tuition: $25,020
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $48,700

#49 Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide College of Business – Daytona Beach, Florida

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide is a four-year, private, nonprofit university in scenic Daytona Beach. Embry-Riddle was founded in 1925, just 22 years after the Wright Brothers' first flight, and is now noted as the best aviation and aerospace university in the world. Today, Embry-Riddle offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate educational programs to a total student enrollment of over 14,000. The university is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

Among their programs available, the ACBSP-accredited College of Business offers an online Master of Business Administration in Aviation. This 36-credit hour program is designed to emphasize modern management concepts, methods, and tools for future leaders and decision-makers in the aviation field. The curriculum starts with 24 courses in the aviation business core and then ends with 12 specialization/elective courses. Students can choose a specialization from the following topics: Accounting, Finance, Leadership, Information Technology, Marketing, International Business, and Public Administration. The Marketing courses available within this program, include: Customer Value, Global Marketing, and Digital Marketing.

Applicants to the online MBA program must complete an online application. Online graduate programs offer ten different start dates throughout the year. Official GMAT and GRE scores are not listed on the set of application requirements for these programs.

Estimated Program Tuition: $19,800
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $69,900

#48 Regent University School of Business & Leadership – Virginia Beach, Virginia

Regent University is a four-year, private, nonprofit, Christian university that was originally founded in 1978, by Dr. M.G. "Pat" Robertson, as CBN University. Since its founding, Regent has grown to offer over 85 on-campus and online programs, through eight academic schools, to over 5,900 students annually. The university is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

Regent's School of Business and Leadership believes in a multidisciplinary and entrepreneurial approach to education, that encourages servant leadership and social responsibility. They offer full-time, part-time, and online courses. Among their degree options is a Master of Business Administration. This ACBSP-accredited program is grounded in traditional business theory and contemporary concepts and enhanced by Judeo-Christian values. Students will gain a biblical perspective on global integration and effective business practices to help successfully develop, execute, launch, and lead new or expanded enterprises anywhere across the globe.

This 42-credit hour, online MBA consists of 30-credits of core business management courses, followed by 12-hours of concentration courses. Among the concentrations available is Marketing. This concentration prepares students with the knowledge and skills to create and manage the process of developing consumer audiences and moving products from producers to consumers. Marketing courses within this program include: Advertising & Promotion, Consumer Behavior-The Psychology of Marketing, Public Relations, Media Management, and Crisis Communications, Viral Marketing, and Contemporary Issues in Marketing.

The application process for online and on-campus programs are the same. Students may begin the program in August, October, January, March, May, or June. There is no GMAT required for admission.

Estimated Program Tuition: $27,300
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $40,500

#47 Webster University School of Communications – Saint Louis, Missouri

Webster University is a four-year, private, nonprofit university that was founded in 1915 as one of the first Catholic women's colleges west of the Mississippi River. What started as a school educating five students, is now a comprehensive university offering bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees to over 16,000 students annually. The university is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Webster's School of Communication's mission is to educate and prepare its students to excel as skilled professionals in a global field of communication. Webster's Master of Arts in Advertising and Marketing Communications degree will equip students with the knowledge on how to create and evaluate effective communication plans and develop the skills needed to manage team environments. Students with or without academic or professional experience in the field of advertising and marketing communications will find the theory and application necessary to advance in their future marketing careers.

This 36-credit hour online MA degree is focused on teaching professionals about connecting with people in creative ways. Students within the program can choose to focus their curriculum on either advertising or marketing communications or both. Courses within this program include: Media Communications, Media and Culture, Strategic Principles of Advertising & Marketing Communication, Marketing, Advertising Decision-Making, and Media Organization and Regulations.

Also available to future marketing managers is an online MBA with an emphasis in Marketing. This program is ACBSP-accredited and offered through the Walker School of Business and Technology. This 61-credit hour program will cover a core of foundational business and management courses and end with 30-credit hours of marketing electives.

Applications for these programs are accepted on a rolling basis, but students are encouraged to apply as early as possible for summer, fall, and spring start dates. Official GMAT and GRE scores are not listed on the set of application requirements for these programs. Students with strong education or professional backgrounds may be eligible to waive a required course within the program.

Estimated Program Tuition: $28,080
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $54,100

#46 Nova Southeastern University H. Wayne Huizenga College of Business & Entrepreneurship – Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Nova Southeastern University is a four-year, private, nonprofit, research university that was founded in 1964 as Nova University of Advanced Technology. NSU started as a small college in the physical and social sciences, and now consists of 16 different academic colleges offering associate through doctoral programs, to over 24,000 students every year. The university is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

NSU's Huizenga College of Business and Entrepreneurship offers full-time, part-time, and online master's degree programs, all designed to meet the demands of today's workplace and prepares students to add immediate value in the workplace. Aspiring marketing managers can find a fully online MBA in Marketing. This IACBE-accredited program covers the critical marketing skills that are required for virtually any corporate career, whether in a large organization or starting out as an entrepreneur.

This 39-credit hour curriculum will give the potential Marketing Manager or Entrepreneur the tools for strategic thinking and skills that can translate into a successful career. Students will first complete 21 hours of core business and management courses and then dive into the specific marketing electives, including an internship credit. Courses within this program include: Cases in Strategic Marketing, Customer Value, Consumer Behavior, Sales Management, Social Media Marketing, Global Marketing, Marketing Research, Product and Brand Management, Services Marketing, and Managing Marketing Communications.

Admissions in this MBA program is competitive. Admission packets are accepted and decisions made for five annual start dates in August, October, January, March, and May. GMAT and GRE scores are required from applicants with undergraduate degrees from a non-regionally accredited institution or with an undergraduate GPA under 2.5.

Estimated Program Tuition: $32,448
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $53,800

#45 Southern New Hampshire University School of Business – Manchester, New Hampshire

Southern New Hampshire University is a four-year, private, nonprofit university that was founded in 1932 as the New Hampshire School of Accounting and Secretarial Science. SNHU has since become one of the fastest growing private, nonprofit universities in the country. They offer associate through doctorate degrees across five campuses, to over 3,000 students with an additional 60,000 students enrolled in their online programs. The university is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

SNHU's ACBSP-accredited School of Business offers undergraduate and graduate programs focused on the modern global business world. Among their many online degree programs available, is a Master of Science in Marketing. This program is designed to give students a strong foundation in analytic, communication and decision-making skills, as well as strong marketing skills in brand building, marketing campaign planning and engaging target audiences through every modern media channel available.

This 36-credit hour program can be completed in as little as 15 months. Courses within this program include: Multinational Market Strategies, Marketing Strategies, Integrated Marketing Communications, Marketing Analytics, Consumer Behavior, Strategic Internet Marketing, and Ethical and Legal Issues in Marketing. Additionally, students can choose from one of three concentrations: Marketing Research and Analytics, Social Media Marketing, and New Media and Communication.

Also available to aspiring marketing professionals is an online MBA in Marketing. This program consists of 36-credits. The first nine courses lay a business foundation, with an additional three courses focuses specifically on marketing.

Applications to SNU's School of Business are accepted on a rolling basis. Decisions are made throughout the year for each of their five graduate semester starts. No GMAT or GRE scores are required for admission.

Estimated Program Tuition: $22,572
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $52,100

#44 Dallas Baptist University Graduate School of Business – Dallas, Texas

Dallas Baptist University is a four-year, private, nonprofit, Baptist university that was founded in 1898 as Decatur Baptist College. What started as a two-year institution has grown to offer 72 undergraduate majors and 30 graduate programs, through nine schools and colleges, to over 5,400 students every year. The DBU community strives to exemplify the qualities of integrity, honor, and Christ-centered character along with a love and enthusiasm for DBU. The university is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

One of DBU's highly esteemed schools, the Graduate School of Business, offers a Christ-centered launching point for servant leaders setting out to make a difference. Students can find traditional on-campus programs, as well as fully online programs. Among those offered, is an ACBSP-accredited online MBA with a concentration in Marketing.

This 36-credit hour program is a truly flexible program that offers classes completely online, with the added option of taking them on-campus if desired, and done at each students' own pace. This MBA will prepare students for visionary careers with rigorous problem solving and analytical skills, versatile social aptitudes, and foundational business knowledge through practical, real-world projects. Additionally, within the marketing concentration, students will focus on various strategies, processes, and practical applications involved in meeting market demands and satisfying customer needs. Courses available within this concentration include: International Marketing, Marketing Analysis, Advanced Marketing Strategies, and Consumer and Buyer Behavior.

Admission applications are accepted on an on-going basis, but students should be aware that there are specific semester start dates throughout the year. GMAT scores are required for admission, with a minimum requirement of 425. Applicants must also have five or more years of significant, substantive managerial/leadership experience, as well as 12 hours of graduate work from an accredited institution with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Estimated Program Tuition: $30,816
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $63,800

#43 Wilmington University College of Business – New Castle, Delaware

Wilmington University is a four-year, private, nonprofit university that started in 1968 with 194 students. Today, Wilmington is a comprehensive university offering three associate, 26 bachelor's, 20 master's, and three doctoral career-oriented programs, across 14 locations, to over 14,000 students every year. The university is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Wilmington's College of Business offers highly-respected, in-demand undergraduate and graduate programs with curriculum that is based on fundamentals and emerging business practices. The COB is committed to offering accessible programs with low tuitions, offering in-state tuition rates to students no matter their residency. They offer the highly respected Master of Business Administration in a traditional classroom at multiple locations, as well as in an online format.

The IACBE-accredited MBA program is designed to prepare students for management and leadership positions in all types of business enterprises. It offers students a choice to tailor their program with one of eight different concentrations, including Marketing Management. This concentration prepares students with the knowledge of management issues affecting marketing in global environments and business strategies in order to meet sales, marketing and customer service needs. Marketing management concentration courses include: Market Research and Consumer Behavior, Business-to-Business and Business-to-Government Marketing, Integrated Marketing Communications, Global Enterprise Development, and New Business Ventures.

Admissions into this program is offered on a rolling basis with courses that begin every eight weeks. GMAT and GRE scores are not required for this admissions process. Although, the following undergraduate prerequisite courses are required for admission: Mathematics, Economics, Accounting, and Finance.

Estimated Program Tuition: $15,984
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $59,600

#42 Syracuse University Whitman School of Management – Syracuse, New York

Syracuse University is a four-year, private, nonprofit university that was chartered in 1870 to offer education in the physical sciences and modern languages. Syracuse University has since expanded to 12 schools and colleges offering bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs to over 21,400 students annually. The university is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Syracuse not only offers traditional on-campus classes and programs, but also online classes so that full-time professionals do not have to put their careers on hold. Syracuse's Whitman School of Management offers a 54-credit, AACSB-accredited online MBA that holds to the same standards as the on-campus counterpart. The curriculum blends foundational core business courses, specialized study, and face-to-face residencies. The residency requirement comprises of three individual three-day residencies, which can take place in a domestic or international city, in order to meet face-to-face with other students and a professor to discuss relevant business situations.

This online program offers students a choice from five different specializations, including Marketing Management. This specialization prepares professionals with the knowledge and skills to build strategic marketing plans in order to create and maintain customer relationships. Courses options within this specialization include the following: Market Research, Strategic Brand Management, Global Marketing Strategy, and Marketing & the Internet.

The Martin J. Whitman School of Management offers four different semester start dates every year. Official GMAT or GRE scores are valued and required for applicants within this application process. Although, the Whitman School also values professional work experience, thus applicants with five or more years of professional or military experience are exempt from this requirement.

Estimated Program Tuition: $77,922
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $58,100

#41 Sacred Heart University Jack Welch College of Business – Fairfield, Connecticut

Sacred Heart University is a four-year, private, nonprofit university that was founded in 1963 by Reverend Walter W. Curtis. SHU is comprised of six academic schools and colleges that offer more than 55 associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs to over 7,700 students every year. The university is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

SHU's nationally ranked Jack Welch College of Business offers undergraduate and graduate AACSB International-accredited programs. Each program incorporates hands on learning, state of the art technology, and the understanding of the global marketplace. The Welch College a full-time on-campus MBA, a part-time on-campus MBA, and a part-time blended learning MBA. The blended learning MBA is a hybrid format is designed for the working professional, which offers a combination of online learning plus 15 Saturday sessions, in Fairfield and Stamford, over a 2 year period.

This MBA program teaches students to apply business skills that cross many business functions. The curriculum consists of courses in Planning & Assessment, Quantitative Competencies, Leadership Competencies, Business Management Core, Electives, with a final Capstone. Students can choose electives from one of four areas of concentration: Accounting, Finance, Marketing, or Management. The marketing electives available include: Product Development and Management, Marketing Research, Advertising Management, Consumer Marketing and Behavior, Marketing Management, International Marketing, Contemporary Issues in Marketing, and Digital Marketing. Students are also given the choice to complete an additional Marketing Graduate Certificate. The certificate is for students wanting to develop their marketing and decision-making knowledge and skills.

Admissions for the MBA begin in July for a January program start date. GMAT scores are required during the application process. GMAT waivers are occasionally granted on a case-by-case basis for students with strong academic and professional backgrounds.

Estimated Program Tuition: $31,500
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $61,300

#40 Wayne State University Mike Ilitch School of Business – Detroit, Michigan

Wayne State University is a four-year, public university that was founded in 1868 as the Detroit Medical College. Wayne State has grown over the years to encompass a multi-disciplinary university, comprised of 13 schools and colleges, offering more than 380 degree and certificate programs to nearly 28,000 students. The university is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The Mike Ilitch School of Business, at Wayne State, offers a tradition Master of Business Administration at multiple campuses and online. This AACSB-accredited MBA consists of the same coursework with the on-site lectures taped and streamed online. This MBA curriculum is designed to produce well-rounded professionals competent in business operations, ethics, and strategy. This program gives the students a choice from 13 different MBA concentrations in order to customize the program to their professional needs. Among the concentrations available, is marketing.

The curriculum within this concentration explore a wide range of topics, prepares students to plan strategies for increasing an organization's competitiveness and satisfying consumer needs. Marketing courses available include: Business Research and Methodology, Consumer and Industrial Buying Power, Strategic Procurement, Principles for Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Strategy and Cloud Applications with Salesforce.com, Advertising Management, International Business, International Marketing Strategy, Management of Retail Enterprises, and Business and Sustainability.

Admissions applications have strict due dates for fall, winter, and spring/summer start dates. GMAT and GRE scores are required during the application process, but waivers can be requested. Waivers will be considered for students with LSAT or MCAT scores, a GPA of 3.0 or higher from an AACSB-accredited business program, a GPA of 3.2 or higher from a regionally-accredited university in any major, or at least three years of relevant professional experience that shows increased responsibility.

Estimated Program In-State Tuition: $21,247.20
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $67,100

#39 Eastern Michigan University College of Business – Ypsilanti, Michigan

Eastern Michigan University is a four-year, public university that was established in 1849 as the Michigan State Normal School. Today, EMU is a comprehensive university offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in over 300 majors and minors, through six colleges, to over 22,000 students annually. The university is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

EMU's College of Business is committed to equips today's students for tomorrow's global business environment. They offer traditional and online AACSB International-accredited degree programs, including an online Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications. This program was designed with the busy business professional in mind. It is set up to be highly interactive without any residency requirements so that students can develop their skills while fitting their education into their busy schedules.

This IMC program curriculum weaves together topics branding, messaging, and media for students to gain the practical skills needed to build a successful brand. The courses use real-world examples and techniques to provide immediately applicable skills and tools needed to advance in a marketing career. Core courses within this program include: Principles, Strategies and Tactics, Brand Development, Audience Behavior, Marketing Communications Research, IMC Ethics, Regulations and Society, and IMC Campaigns.

Admissions into the online IMC program is selective and highly competitive. Official GRE or GMAT scores are not required during the admission process, although exam scores may be submitted to strengthen the application.

Estimated Program In-State Tuition: $21,492
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $56,000

#38 University of Wisconsin – Whitewater College of Business and Economics – Whitewater, Wisconsin

The University of Wisconsin – Whitewater is a four-year public university that was originally founded in 1868 and joined the University of Wisconsin System in 1971. UW-Whitewater offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate majors, through four academic colleges, to over 12,000 students every year. The university is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Wisconsin has the largest business program in the state of Wisconsin. The College of Business and Economics offers accredited on-campus and online degree programs accredited by AACSB International, with the same classes and taught by the same faculty. The 100% online MBA at UW-Whitewater is designed to cater to the working professional and develops students to think globally, behave ethically, and lead innovation.

The curriculum consists of 36-credit hours of breadth requirements, emphasis courses, and electives. Students can tailor their degree with one of ten different available emphases, including Marketing. Courses available within this emphasis include: Buyer Behavior, International Business, Advertising and Promotion Management, Strategic Marketing for Entrepreneurs, Product Innovation and Pricing, Internet Marketing, and Strategic Marketing Planning.

The UW-Whitewater Online MBA has fall, spring, and summer start dates and deadlines. The entrance requirements are the same as the face-to-face MBA. Official GMAT or GRE scores are required and weighted with undergraduate GPAs to determine eligibility for admission.

Estimated Program Tuition: $22,608
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $56,300

#37 Regis University College of Business & Economics – Denver, Colorado

Regis University is a four-year, private, nonprofit, Jesuit university that was founded in 1877. The mission of Regis University is to "educate men and women of all ages to make a positive impact in a rapidly-changing global society." They offer a wide variety of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees to their 9,200 students every year. The university is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Regis' College of Business & Economics is focused on cultivating leaders of integrity who think critically, communicate clearly and implement innovative solutions to complex challenges. They offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional on-campus as well as online formats. Their Master of Business Administration degree is offered online with multiple specialization options, including marketing. The program consists of 36-credit hours of core requirements, specialization requirements, specialization electives, and general electives.

The online MBA in Marketing to understand the relationship between customers and organizations and how to use strategic marketing plans to strengthen that relationship. The curriculum emphasizes the tools and principles needed to further careers as a marketing professional or influential decision maker. The marketing courses offered in this program include: Discovering Marketing Opportunities, Marketing Strategy, International Marketing, Product Management, Digital Marketing and Promotion, Integrating the Marketing Mix, Branding and Promotion: Strategy to Implementation, Customer Relationships: Development and Management, and Entrepreneurial Innovation.

The College of Business & Economics has fall, spring, and summer start dates with applications deadlines two weeks prior. The application process does not require GMAT scores. An admissions essay is required, although GMAT scores with a minimum 3.5 official score on the Analytical Writing portion of the exam could be offered in lieu of the essay.

Estimated Program Tuition: $25,200
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $63,200

#36 Suffolk University Sawyer Business School – Boston, Massachusetts

Suffolk University is a four-year, private, nonprofit university that was founded in 1906 as the Suffolk School of Law. From its beginnings, Suffolk has strived to provide education to working students. They offer bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, through its three schools and colleges, to over 8,000 students every year. The university is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Suffolk University's Sawyer Business School offers AACSB International-accredited undergraduate and graduate programs in full-time, part-time, online, and weekend formats. Among their degree offerings, is an online Master of Business Administration. This 49-credit hour program is delivered by way of video, slideshows, threaded discussions, interactive email, white boards, and a weekly live chat with the professor and classmates.

The core MBA courses cover foundational business and management curriculum with a unique global focus. The core is divided into four sequential blocks: Contextualize from Boston to the World, Understand Business Fundamentals, Construct the Big Picture, and Lead and Implement Change. After these courses are completed, students can finish their studies by choosing from a variety of concentrations, including Marketing. Understanding that marketing is essential to the success of any business, this MBA program constructs these courses around the knowledge and skills that every marketing manager must have. Students can choose from many marketing courses, including: Marketing Research for Managers, Sales Management, Digital Marketing Challenges, Global Branding and Communication Strategies, Managing Relationships in the Global Supply Chain, International Marketing, and Global Perspectives in Consumer Marketing.

Applications to the online MBA program are accepted on a rolling basis, although the program does have fall, spring, and summer deadlines. Official GMAT or GRE scores are required during the application process, but students with exceptional educational and professional qualifications may be awarded a scoring waiver.

Estimated Program Tuition: $67,767
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $72,100

#35 Gannon University College of Engineering and Business – Erie, Pennsylvania

Gannon University is a four-year, private, nonprofit, Catholic university that was founded in 1925 as Cathedral College by Archbishop John Mark Gannon. Gannon has grown over the years to become Northwestern Pennsylvania's premier Catholic university, providing a comprehensive, values-centered learning experience emphasizing faith, leadership, inclusiveness and social responsibility. They offer over 60 undergraduate degrees and 26 graduate degrees to more than 4,400 students annually. The university is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Gannon's College of Engineering and Business focuses on developing leaders who can solve problems, make decisions and put theory into practice in today's rapidly changing economy. In addition to their on-campus programs, they offer two fully online programs, including a Master of Business Administration. The goal of their online programs is to offer their outstanding, value-centered education for professional and personal leadership to students who need a flexible schedule.

The online MBA is an ACBSP-accredited program that gives a comprehensive overview in the core foundational aspects of business operations, and places a strong emphasis on ethics to prepare students to be a principled business leader. Students can choose between four different options of a specialization, including Marketing. This specialization teaches students how to leverage market research, consumer behavior, and market trends, to create a strategic marketing plan. Students will be able to find and use quantitative data and research to make a competitive advantage within the marketplace. Courses within this specialization include: Consumer Behavior, Marketing Research, and International Marketing.

Applications for the online MBA program are accepted and processed on an on-going basis. A GMAT score is required for all students without a 3.2 undergraduate GPA. A GMAT waiver can be awarded for students able to successfully complete "provisional courses" within the first two consecutive terms.

Estimated Program Tuition: $28,950
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $68,200

#34 American University Kogod School of Business – Washington, District of Columbia

American University is a four-year, private, nonprofit university that was chartered in 1893 by Congress with a commitment to educate service-minded students. American University houses seven schools and colleges, and offers over 150 undergraduate and graduate academic programs to over 13,000 students annually. The university is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

AU's Kogod School of Business has been teaching and motivating business leaders since 1955. Kogod is known for its experiential learning and its excellent on-campus and online programs. They offer an AACSB International-accredited online MBA program with a Marketing concentration. In this program, students participate in two real-world immersions in cities around the world. These experiences allow students to expand on their classroom relationships, hear from business leaders, and explore local culture of the host city.

The MBA curriculum consists of 48-credit hours of core courses, elective courses, and immersions. The combinations of courses and immersions are to prepare students with the knowledge and skills to be business leaders around the world. AFter the core courses building a foundation in business practices, students can tailor their degree by choosing from six pre-designed concentrations to pursue or create their own. One of the concentrations available is Marketing. This path is designed for students wanting to develop their skills in brand management, advertising account management, sales promotion, media planning, market research, and marketing campaigns. Courses within this concentration include: Brand Strategy, Integrated Marketing Communication, Business Intelligence, Business Insights through Analytics, and Database and Big Data.

The Kogod School online MBA has four start dates a year, October, January, April, and July. Applicants are reviewed with a holistic approach, considering undergraduate GPA, professional experience, and any advanced degrees. GRE and GMAT scores are not required for admission, but may be submitted to strengthen their application.

Estimated Program Tuition: $75,792
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $70,000

#33 Wright State University Raj Soin College of Business – Dayton, Ohio

Wright State University is a four-year, public university that was named after Orville and Wilbur Wright, and to this day continue their tradition of innovation. Wright State offers over 230 undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and professional degree programs, through 11 schools and colleges, to over 16,800 students every year. The university is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The Raj Soin College of Business, at Wright State, has earned an AACSB International accreditation in both business and accountancy, which makes them one out of 182 schools in the world that hold this elite accreditation. They offer award-winning programs at one of the most affordable tuition rates in Ohio. Their degree offerings include a traditional MBA, a weekend MBa, and an online MBA.

The online MBA is a cohort-based program with an atmosphere of collaboration. This program was build with the working professional and mind, and can be completed on a part-time basis in a little over two years. Before starting the core courses, students must show aptitude in a few foundation topics with appropriate business prerequisites in the past seven years as well as passing a few placement exams. The 33-credit hour program consists of core business management courses, concentration courses, and a capstone course. After finishing the core business management courses, students can choose from one of ten concentrations to tailor their degree, including a Marketing concentration. Courses within this concentration are as follows: Market Research & Analysis, Market Simulation & ROI, Entrepreneurship, and International Marketing.

Admissions into the online MBA program is competitive and spaces are limited. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but the Graduate School has fall, spring, and summer application deadlines. An official GMAT score of at least 400 is required for admission, but a GRE score can be submitted as a substitute. Students with six or more years of executive management and leadership experience may request a GMAT waiver.

Estimated Program In-State Tuition: $19,932
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $52,700

#32 Central Michigan University College of Business Administration – Mount Pleasant, Michigan

Central Michigan University is a four-year, public university that was established in 1892 as the Central Michigan Normal School and Business Institute. Since opening its doors, CMU has grown to sit among the 100 largest public universities with over 40 locations around North America. They offer over 200 different undergraduate and graduate programs to over 26,800 students. The university is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

CMU's Global Campus offered its first online courses in 1994 and now offers a wide variety of courses and degrees online, including a Master of Science in Administration. The Global Campus, in conjunction with the College of Business Administration, offers a 36-credit hour, AACSB-accredited, online MBA that consists of the same content and coursework as the on-campus program. The curriculum consists of a solid foundation of business courses with a choice of five different emphases, including Marketing. This emphasis helps students develop and grow into marketing managers with strong skills in advertising, brand management, market research, new product development, communications, and public relations. Courses in this emphasis include: Voice of the Customer, Market and Sales Forecasting, and International Marketing.

Prospective CMU online MBA students must demonstrate competency in nine prerequisite courses before entering into the program. Applicants must also submit official GMAT scores, with a minimum required score of 450.

Estimated Program Tuition: $21,600
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $57,900

#31 Saint Joseph's University Erivan K. Haub School of Business – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Saint Joseph's University is a four-year, private, nonprofit, Jesuit university that was founded by the Society of Jesus in 1851. Saint Joseph's consists of three principal academic colleges offering over 30 undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs to almost 9,000 students annually. The university is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Not only does Saint Joseph's offer rigorous liberal arts programs on-campus but online as well. They offer seven online graduate certificates and 15 online master's degrees, including their online Master of Business Administration through the highly acclaimed Haub School of Business. This mission of this program is to strengthen the managerial effectiveness and leadership potential while fostering a genuine sensitivity to the ethical, moral, and cultural aspects of contemporary global society.

This AACSB-accredited online MBA program consists of 33-credit hours focusing on developing ethics-based leaders with strong analytical skills, technical competence, and social responsibility. After the core business foundation courses, online students can choose to focus their studies in a concentrations, including Marketing. This concentration trains marketing managers to develop customer-driven strategies using some of the latest marketing metrics and techniques in today's lightning-fast online marketplace. Students select three courses from available marketing courses, including: Promotional Strategy, Strategic Marketing Management, International Marketing, Research in Marketing, Consumer Behavior, Marketing and Social Media, International Marketing Research, and Global Marketing Communications.

The Haub School of Business offers fall, spring, and summer application deadlines. Official GMAT or GRE scores are required within the application process. Score waivers may be requested for applicants with proven professional and/or academic excellence. Waivers will be decided upon the following criteria: high academic achievement, professional certifications, professive work experience, and a completion of master's or terminal degrees.

Estimated Program Tuition: $53,159
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $64,000

#30 University of Maryland, College Park Robert H. Smith School of Business – College Park, Maryland

The University of Maryland, College Park is a four-year public research university that was founded in 1856 and is the flagship of the University System of Maryland. The University of Maryland, College Park houses 12 academic colleges and schools and offers 91 bachelor's, 106 master's, and 83 doctoral degree programs to over 37,600 students every year. The university is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

The Robert H. Smith School of Business, offers AACSB International-accredited undergraduate programs, full-time and part-time MBAs, an executive MBA, an online MBA, specialty masters, and PhD programs. The same Smith School of Business academic rigor and expert faculty are offered across format lines. The online program requires two three-day residencies. The opening residency starts students on coursework and initiates the important peer and professor relationships. The closing residency is a capstone experience exploring the knowledge of all various functional business areas.

The Smith School's 54-credit hour online MBA is designed to develop expertly skilled, ethically sound business leaders with insight into core business ideas in leadership, communication, ethics, teamwork, marketing, accounting, finance, and strategy. The program offers four different specializations, including Marketing. The curriculum explores the latest marketing topics, and develops leaders with brand management expertise. Courses within this specialization include: Consumer Behavior, Customer Equity Management, and Co-Creating Customer Experience.

The Smith online MBA program offers four start dates a year, in January, April, July, and September. An official GMAT/GRE score is required in the application process. A waiver may be requested of an applicant who can demonstrate excellent quantitative and analytical skills through academic records and/or a successful career trajectory.

Estimated Program Tuition: $79,974
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $61,600

#29 Texas A&M University-Commerce College of Business – Commerce, Texas

Texas A&M University-Commerce is a four-year, public university that was established in 1889 as the East Texas Normal College in Cooper. In 1996, the college became a member of the prestigious Texas A&M University System. The Commerce campus alone offers over 100 major areas of study at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, through its four academic colleges, to over 12,000 students. The university is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

A&M Commerce has grown to not only offer on-campus programs, but online degree programs in order to make higher education more accessible and available. The College of Business at A&M Commerce offers a 100% online Master of Science in Marketing for students from business and non-business backgrounds. This AACSB International-accredited program has a mission to provide quality academic and practical learning experiences to equip students with the knowledge to apply the marketing concepts and theories of marketing management, business-to-business (B2B), marketing, international marketing, and marketing research in a variety of organizations. Courses within this program include: Financial Management, Management & Organizational Behavior, GLB/Marketing Management, Business to Business Marketing, GLB/International Marketing, and GLB/Strategic Management.

Applications for the online MS in Marketing are accepted year-round. Official GRE/GMAT scores are required for applicants without a 3.0 overall undergraduate GPA, a graduate degree from an accredited institution in an area of study approved by the department, or passing score on all parts of the Uniform Certified Public Accountant Exam. If applicants do not possess all the requirements for admittance, they can still choose a non-degree option and start taking up to four classes before officially entering the program. Although, this option does not ultimately exclude applicants from all requirements in the application packet.

Estimated Program In-State Tuition: $10,991
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $63,200

#28 Michigan State University Eli Broad College of Business – East Lansing, Michigan

Michigan State University is a four-year, public university that was founded in 1855 after the famous Morrill Act of 1862. Michigan State draws over 50,000 students from over 130 countries around the world with over 200 exceptional undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The university is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The Eli Broad College of Business is home to more than 7,700 students and is one of the largest AACSB International-accredited business schools in the country. The Broad College offers a full-time and an online Master of Science in Marketing Research for students wanting to build or accelerate their careers in marketing research. Both program formats consist of the same courses taught by the same professors, but the 19-month online program is designed specifically for students who work a full-time job. The online program does contains an on-campus component. Students must travel to East Lansing twice during the 19-month program to attend classes on campus.

The 34-credit hour, curriculum prepares students for fulfilling career in marketing research, be it with corporations, strategic consulting organizations, advertising agencies and/or marketing research firms. Students will become proficient in traditional marketing research techniques as well as leading-edge marketing technologies, methodologies, and software packages. Courses within this program include: Marketing Management, Communications, Marketing Research for Decision Making, Consulting in Market Research, Software Tools for Market Research, Consumer Insights, Experimental Design, and Sampling and Questionnaire Design.

Applications for the full-time and online MSMR programs are the same and admission is competitive. Standardized test scores are required for admission, GRE scores are accepted, but GMAT scores are preferred. Admissions are accepted on a rolling basis, but the online program only has one start date per year, which is in May for the summer semester.

Estimated Program In-State Tuition: $27,000
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $73,300

#27 West Virginia University Reed College of Media – Morgantown, West Virginia

West Virginia University is a four-year, public university that was founded in 1867. Today, WVU enrolls over 29,000 students and offers 193 bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and professional degrees through its 15 colleges and schools. The university is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Among its online offerings, WVU's Reed College of Media offers an online Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications. This 33-credit hour program can be completed in as little as 18 months with a curriculum specifically focused on the marketing relationship between organizations and consumers and the communication skills needed to facilitate that relationship well in today's marketplace. Recently added is an option for an area of emphasis in Management. This emphasis will prepare IMC students to apply their skills in a traditional business administrative setting with coursework in leadership, ethics, negotiations and management information systems. Courses within this program include: Marketing Research & Analysis, Audience Insight, Brand Equity Management, Emerging Media & the Market, Creative Strategy & Execution, Direct Marketing, and PR Concepts & Strategy.

Starting in Fall 2016, students in the Online Hybrid MBA program can now add an Area of Emphasis in Integrated Marketing Communications. This program in WVU's College of Business & Economics, formerly the Executive MBA, is offered online with four required 3-4 day on-site residencies. This 48-credit hour, AACSB International-accredited program prepares MBA students to develop the skills required to manage integrated marketing communications campaigns for their firms. This MBA area of emphasis requires the following four courses: Introduction to Integrated Marketing Communications, Audience Insight, Brand Equity Management, and Emerging Media and the Market.

Admission into the Integrated Marketing Communications program is competitive. Even though the program is offered online, the number of accepted applicants is limited. This keeps class sizes small in order to enable intimate communication between peers and professors. The program operates on a rolling admissions basis, although the IMC program has three start dates, fall, spring, and summer. Official GRE/GMAT scores are required, although a waiver may be requested if students have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.3 or higher, six or more years of marketing-related work experience, or have earned a master's degree or higher.

Estimated Program In-State Tuition: $19,932
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $50,400

#26 Drexel University LeBow College of Business – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Drexel University is a four-year, private, nonprofit university that was founded in 1891. Drexel consists of 15 colleges and schools, offering over 200 associate through doctoral degree programs, to over 26,000 students every year. The university is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Drexel started offering online courses in 1996, and of the 26,000 students today, 5,200 of them are online students. Drexel's highly acclaimed LeBow College of Business offers online master's students two AACSB-accredited online Master of Business Administration programs, an accelerated program and a flex program. The online MBA programs at LeBow are taught with the same academic rigor of the on-campus programs, with the same curriculum and taught by the same faculty. The Accelerated MBA can be completed within a 24-month timeframe and the Flex program can be completed in a 42-month schedule. The accelerated program does require one four-day intensive residency course to encourage social interaction in the learning process.

These MBA programs emphasize the fundamentals of business along leadership and ethics, technological infrastructure, and industry perspectives. Students are able to tailor their program with a choice of five concentrations, including Marketing. This concentration emphasizes marketing skills in the context of planning, strategy, research, and management. Students can tailor their concentration from the following marketing courses: Buyer Behavior Theory, Channels of Distribution Management, Global Marketing, Integrated Marketing Communications Management, Business to Business Marketing, New Product Planning, Strategy, and Development, Services Marketing, Marketing Management Cases and Problems, and Marketing Information Management and Research.

Drexel's LeBow online MBA programs hold four start dates throughout the year, fall, winter, spring, and summer. The admissions process does require official GMAT, although GRE scores are also accepted. GMAT waivers can be requested for students who hold terminal degrees or for students with five years of professional experience in management with consistent career progression and can demonstrate strong quantitative skills.

Estimated Program Tuition: $64,005
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $68,600

#25 University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Kenan-Flagler Business School – Chapel Hill, North Carolina

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill started teaching students in 1793 and stands as the nation's oldest state university. Today, UNC Chapel Hill is a four-year, public university that offers 78 bachelor's degrees, 112 master's degrees, 68 doctorate degrees, and seven professional degrees, through 14 schools, to over 29,000 students on-campus as well as in virtual classrooms. The university is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

Through UNC Chapel Hill's Kenan-Flagler Business School, students can enroll in an online Master of Business Administration. This Online MBA is a 66-credit hour AACSB-accredited program that is taught by the same faculty and covering the same coursework as the on-campus equivalent. Students are additionally given the opportunity to enroll in global immersion experiences throughout their program. Students are required to attend at least two immersions during their program.

The MBA coursework is designed to build foundational business knowledge, hone essential business skills, and allow students to tailor their education to their unique career goals. Students can choose between eight different concentrations, including Marketing. The marketing concentration courses can help current and aspiring marketers expand their knowledge on the fundamentals of marketing and gain expertise by exploring how global marketing strategies can impact major brands. Courses focus on four key areas: Customer Management, Product Management, Marketing Strategy, and Market Analysis. Marketing electives available include: Digital Marketing, Global Marketing, Services Marketing, and Information for Decision Making, Incentives & Strategy.

MBA@UNC applicants are held to the same elite admissions standards as our on-campus students. The online program applications are accepted on a rolling admissions schedule, with four start times per year, January, April, July and October. Applicants are required to have at least two years of professional experience. Those with seven or more years of professional full-time experience are exempt from submitting GMAT or GRE scores, while those with less than seven years professional experience must submit official scoring within their application.

Estimated Program Tuition: $104,664.12
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $91,600

#24 Babson College F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business – Wellesley, Massachusetts

Babson College is a four-year, private, nonprofit college that began in 1919 as a school of business administration. Today, Babson is a collaborative community offering over 3,000 students, bachelor's and master's degrees covering fundamental business skills and liberal arts knowledge. Babson uses a methodology, called Entrepreneurial Thought and Action, in every program in order to encourage students to develop an entrepreneurial mindset and create economic and social value within any industry or job. The university is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Babson's F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business offers students programs to pursue advanced business instruction through their Blended Learning Master of Business Administration. This 21-month, AACSB-accredited, cohort based, MBA program combines online courses with two Residency Weeks, and 14 Face-to-Face Sessions in Wellesley. The 46-credit hour curriculum is focused on entrepreneurship, leadership, management, team building, and people skills that can be applied in real business situations. After the core business courses are completed, students can choose nine elective credits from five concentrations, including Marketing. This concentration offers students to choose courses within the following key themes: Research & Analytics, Policy & Strategy, Pricing & Product Management, Digital & Marketing Communication, Brand Management, Sales, and Retailing.

Babson operates their application process through a web-based system. The admissions process follows a deadline-driven timetable with March and October enrollment dates for the blended learning MBA. GMAT and GRE scores are not required for the blended learning program, although the admissions committee retains the right to request them.

Estimated Program Tuition: $82,340
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $96,900

#23 University of North Texas College of Business – Denton, Texas

The University of North Texas is a four-year, public university that was founded in 1890 as the Texas Normal College and Teachers' Training Institute. Today, The University of North Texas is one of the largest universities in Texas with 12 schools offering 98 bachelor's, 82 master's, and 36 doctoral degrees to over 36,000 students every year. The university is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

The College of Business at the UNT not only offers many AACSB-accredited on-campus business programs, but online as well. UNT offers four 100% online MBA programs: an MBA in Marketing, an MBA in Finance, an accelerated MBA in Strategic Management, and an accelerated MBA in Organizational Behavior. Each of these programs requires 36-credit hours consisting of MBA core courses and concentration specific courses.

The MBA in Marketing is offered through the Department of Marketing and Logistics. The curriculum provides students with the breadth of a traditional MBA combined with specialized marketing courses. After completing the core courses, students will explore major marketing concepts in the following courses: Advanced Marketing Research and Analytics, Effective Marketing Planning in Dynamic Environments, Customer Behavior, Decision Making in Global Markets, Supply Chain Management, and Strategic Logistics Management.

The College of Business has three application deadlines for their spring, fall, and summer start dates. Official GMAT scores, from within five years, are required during the admission process. A GMAT waiver may be requested if an applicant has the following requirements: a doctoral or professional doctoral degree from a regionally accredited institution, master's degree from a regionally accredited institution with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher, or for UNT Honors College graduates with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher.

Estimated Program In-State Tuition: $8,200.44
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $63,200

#22 Washington State University Edward R. Murrow College of Communication – Pullman, Washington

Washington State University is a four-year, public, nonprofit university that was founded in 1890 as Washington's original land-grant university. WSU is comprised of 11 academic colleges, offers 95 undergraduate majors, 76 master's degrees, 66 doctoral degrees, and three professional degrees, to over 28,000 students every year. WSU not only offers traditional on-campus programs, but virtual classrooms offering nine undergraduate degrees and 12 graduate degrees. The university is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

The Edward R. Murrow College of Communication clinical faculty offers online programs through cutting-edge technologies to give students a key advantage in the workplace. Within this college is an online Master's in Strategic Communication. This 30-credit hour, cohort-style program is accredited by the IACBE and all courses are offered in an online format. This program is designed for students wanting to advance in advertising, public relations, corporate communication, and communication management. Students will learn how to gather data in order to create communication campaigns with traditional and new media methods. Courses within this program include: Professional Multimedia Content Creation, Crisis Communication in Global Contexts, Ethics for Professionals, Persuasion for Professional Communicators, Creative Media Strategies & Techniques, Professional Digital Content Promotion, Consumer Behavior and Brand Development, and Professional Marketing Communication Management and Campaigns.

Also available to students wanting to advance in the marketing profession, is an AACSB International-accredited MBA with a concentration in Marketing. This program is 36-credit hour MBA that is taught out of the Carson College of Business. Students will start with a core foundational business core and the elective courses in the marketing concentration. This program is designed to build strong management professionals and highly effective leaders while being immediately applicable in a working professional's career.

Applications deadlines are given for spring, summer, and fall start dates. GRE and GMAT scores are not required for the Master's in Strategic Communication program but are required for the MBA. Score waivers can be requested in the MBA application process if applicants exceed GPA requirements, hold a graduate or professional degree, and have seven years of progressive managerial experience.

Estimated Program Tuition: $17,580
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $57,800

#21 Indiana University Kelley School of Business – Bloomington, Indiana

Indiana University is a four-year, public university that was founded in 1820, and now stands as the flagship campus of Indiana University's eight campuses. The IU campus in Bloomington offers more than 330 undergraduate and 190 graduate degree programs to over 46,000 students every year. The university is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

IU's highly acclaimed Kelley School of Business offers AACSB International-accredited programs. Students interested in marketing management have two different options for online degrees. A 30-credit hour Master of Science in Marketing program is available, or turning it into a dual degree with their highly acclaimed online MBA program. The programs do require two separate week-long residency intensives. The first is an orientation week to kick off the program, and the second jump starts the second year off with a business analysis course and connecting with peers and faculty.

The online MS in Marketing degree allows students to dive deep into the multi-faceted study of marketing. Students will investigate the art and science behind the relationship between customers, organizations, and products and services. The curriculum will first cover the quantitative foundation of marketing and then learn how to develop marketing strategies in a global marketplace. Courses within this program include: Quantitative Analysis, Strategic Marketing Management, Managing Accounting Information for Decision Making, Performance Driven Pricing, Advertising and Promotion Management, Marketing Strategies for Emerging Markets, and Marketing in the Era of Digital Technology.

Pursuing a dual degree with the MS in Marketing will give students the opportunity to gain broad business skills with the online MBA. The dual program option takes less time than earning two degrees separately. The foundational business topics include: Business Law and Ethics, Economics, Finance, Operations, Information Technology, and Project Management.

The Kelley School of Business offers fall and spring start dates. Official GMAT/GRE scores are required during the admission process. Most applying students have at least two years of relevant work experience, but the Kelley School looks for a wide range of accumulated experiences and achievements and encourages students to apply no matter their academic background or career experience.

Estimated Program Tuition: $39,000
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $54,700

#20 University of Denver University College – Denver, Colorado

The University of Denver is a four-year, private, nonprofit university that was founded in 1864. They offer a variety of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees to over 11,800 students annually. The university is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University College is Denver's College of Professional and Continuing Studies. This college offers flexible and accredited evening and online programs for today's busy students. They offer an online Master of Arts in Communication Management program with a concentration in Marketing Communication.

This 48-credit hour program will help students learn to navigate internal and external communication challenges. Students will become familiar with utilizing traditional and digital communication methods to influence constituents, implement organizational change, manage crises, and cultivate creative leadership. The concentration in Marketing Communication will help students create and manage strategic marketing campaigns. Courses within this program include: Communication in Professions and Organizations, Applied Critical Thinking in Communication, Communication and Society: Theories and Applications, Marketing Strategy and Process, Branding & Market Positioning, Digital Marketing Communication, and Web Analytics.

The University College offers Fall, Spring, and Winter admission deadlines. The application process does not require a GMAT or GRE score. If students find that they have missed the application deadline, the college encourages them to start taking classes. Students are allowed to take courses for one quarter before their completed application has been submitted.

Estimated Program Tuition: $30,144
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $49,100

#19 Pepperdine University Graziadio School of Business and Management – Malibu, California

Pepperdine University is a four-year, private, nonprofit, Christian university that was founded in 1937 by George Pepperdine. Over the years, the university has grown in size and prestige offering bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, through five academic colleges, to over 7,400 students every year. The university is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission.

Pepperdine's Graziadio School of Business and Management is nationally and globally known as a leading business school. They offer an AACSB International-accredited MBA program in a part-time in-resident format as well as online. The online program is designed for the working student and can be completed in as little as two years. The beginning of the program requires one weekend-long residency leadership development workshop which establishes the foundation of the program as well as initiate working relationships with peers and faculty.

The curriculum focuses on building a comprehensive and applicable business foundation in areas such as finance, marketing, accounting, economics, quantitative analysis, law, human behavior, information systems, strategy, management, and leadership. In addition to the core business foundation work, Pepperdine offers four elective concentrations in Finance, Leadership and Managing Organizational Change, Marketing, and General Management. The management concentration covers the important concepts, techniques, and tools need to develop marketing strategies and programs. The courses within this concentration include: Global Brand Management, Market Innovation and Commercialization, and Marketing Communications in the Digital Age.

Graziadio offers three different application deadlines throughout the year and offers an online application process. The online MBA program does require a minimum of two years of work experience and official GMAT scores. A GMAT waiver may be requested for students with three years of full-time work experience and a STEM bachelor's degree or a master's degree.

Estimated Program Tuition: $84,240
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $77,900

#18 Marist College School of Communication and the Arts – Poughkeepsie, New York

Marist College is a four-year, private, nonprofit, liberal arts college that was founded in 1929. From its humble beginnings, Marist College has grown to offer 46 bachelor's programs, 13 master's programs, and 14 certificate programs to over 6,000 students annually. Marist not only has a strong background in on-campus education, but has also been teaching high-quality online courses for over 15 years. The university is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Marist's School of Communication and the Arts offers an online Master of Arts in Integrated Marketing Communication. This schools is dedicated to prepare students to live and work successfully in the global communication and arts environment. This MA is offered in a 100% asynchronous online environment in order to give students optimal flexibility and accessibility. The curriculum is designed to inspire the next general of marketing strategists. These students will gain the skills to develop well thought out marketing communication plans to help organizations effectively utilize traditional and media-driven avenues to develop, distribute, and analyze consistent messages. The courses within this program include: Principles of Integrated Marketing Communication, Public Relations Management, Brand Management, Global Consumer Insights, Advertising Management, Social Media Strategies & Tactics, and Analytical Tools for Decision Making.

Students can apply to the program for a fall or spring semester start date. August 1 and December 1 are the fall and spring application deadlines. Students are required to include an official GRE or GMAT score in the application process. This requirement, however, can be waived for applicants with an undergraduate degree in Communication or Business with a 3.0 GPA or higher, combined with either one completed graduate course with a grade of B or higher or at least three years of professional experience in Advertising, Public Relations, Corporate Communication, Marketing, or Sales.

Estimated Program Tuition: $22,500
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $53,200

#17 University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Business Administration – Lincoln, Nebraska

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is a four-year, public university that was chartered in 1869, and dedicated to diffuse knowledge to people of any age, sex, color, or nationality. Today, UNL educates over 25,000 students and offers over 5,000 undergraduate and graduate degrees every year. The university is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The College of Business Administration offers an AACSB-accredited Master of Business Administration program in three different formats, on-campus, online, and a combination of online and on-campus courses. This online program is the same as its on-campus counterpart and taught by the same award-winning professors and researchers. And while the program offers online students the option of taking classes on-campus, it has no campus requirement.

The 48-credit hour curriculum is designed to equip future business leaders for the business world. After the ten core courses, there are nine hours of breadth electives and nine hours of electives. There is an option of five different specializations, including a specialization in Marketing. Courses within this specialization include: Services Marketing, Strategic Issues in Marketing Communications, and Marketing and Globalization.

Admission is offered on a rolling basis for the MBA program. There are five different start dates, August, October, January, March, and June. Admissions requirements include two years of professional experience, a 3.0 GPA, and an official GMAT score. GMAT waivers may be awarded for students with over seven years of managerial or operational professional experience, or for students who hold a PhD, a JD, an MD, or a Pharm D.

Estimated Program Tuition: $25,488
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $57,200

#16 Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications – Evanston, Illinois

Northwestern University is a four-year, private, nonprofit university that was founded in 1851. The campus at Evanston is the main Northwestern campus with additional campuses in Chicago, Doha, and Qatar. What started out as a school for ten students is now a university with 12 schools and colleges, offering bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, to over 21,500 students every year. The university is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Northwestern's Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications offers an online Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications. The school has been training generations of highly respected journalists and advertising and IMC professionals for more than 90 years. Northwestern specifically built their IMC program in the Medill School as its own field of study instead of as an offshoot of an MBA program. This is partially how programs in advertising, direct marketing and public relations have evolved over the years, but also because they wanted to dive deep into marketing communications and media.

This online IMC MS program is taught by the same faculty as the on-campus, full-time counterpart. The courses are mostly offered in an asynchronous format with occasional live sessions. To graduate, students must complete 13 courses, five of which are core classes, and the remainder electives. The core courses within this program include: Consumer Insight, Marketing Management, Financial Accounting, Statistics and Marketing Research, and IMC Strategic Process.

Medill offers Online IMC students four different semester starts, fall, winter, spring and summer quarters. Official GMAT or GMAT scores are required for admissions. Applicants may request a waiver from the test score requirement if they are a Northwestern alumni, current Northwestern student, a student who earned a graduate degree within the past five years, or a professional with ten or more years of full-time professional work experience in marketing or a closely related field.

Estimated Program Tuition: $54,379
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $61,200

#15 Temple University Fox School of Business – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Temple University is a four-year, public university that was founded in 1888, as The Temple College. The school was founded to "benefit the Working Men" after one Reverend spent his nights tutoring young professional men who worked during the day. From that one tutoring reverend, Temple University has grown to nine campuses around the world, 17 academic schools and colleges, offering over 400 degree programs to over 37,000 students every year. The university is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Temple University's prestigious Fox School of Business and Management offers a 100% online Master of Science in Digital Innovation in Marketing that can be completed in a streamlined 16 months. This degree prepares digital marketing leaders and innovators with exposure to exciting new technologies and experience in measuring and interpreting data with sophisticated analytics. The 30-credit hour curriculum is taught by Fox School's nationally ranked MIS department and from the Department of Marketing and Supply Chain Management. Courses within this program include: Information Technology Management, Digital Marketing, Data Analytics, Digital Business Innovation, User Experience Design, Social Media Innovation, Mobile Marketing Strategy, and Digital Brand Management.

Students interested in a master's degree in marketing can also look into the Fox School's 48-credit hour AACSB-accredited online MBA program with a concentration in marketing management. This program does require one initial week-long residency course held on the main campus. This program provides a collaborative and dynamic experience for aspiring leaders in the business community.

The Fox School does have official registration deadlines for the online programs which can be found on their website. Standardized test score are required. The GMAT is preferred, but the GRE is also accepted. Although, waivers are sometimes given on a case by case basis for students with over ten years of relevant industry experience. They offer online info sessions for prospective students with information on the program and admission with Q&A directly to staff.

Estimated Program Tuition: $33,420
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $65,700

#14 University of Alabama Manderson Graduate School of Business – Tuscaloosa, Alabama

The University of Alabama is a four-year, public university that was founded in 1831 as "The University of the State of Alabama." Today Alabama stands as the state's flagship institution of higher learning, enrolling over 36,000 students every year through bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in over 200 fields of study. Their Bama by Distance program allows students to enroll in one of their 13 colleges and schools and study in a flexible online format. The university is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

UA's Manderson Graduate School of Business offers an online Master of Science in Marketing with a specialization in Marketing Analytics from faculty that are leading the nation in data management and analytics. This prepares students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in one of marketing's fastest growing fields. This 33-credit hour, AACSB International-accredited degree teaches students how to evaluate marketing campaigns based on a myriad of data as well as develop other critical skills such as communication and time management. The curriculum consists of a combination of marketing and statistics courses. The management courses within this program include: Advanced Marketing Analysis, Global Business, Global Marketing Management, and Advanced Import/Export Strategy.

Students can complete their application online on an ongoing basis. An official GMAT or GRE score is required as an important part of the application, in addition to their statement of purpose, resume, three letters of recommendation, and transcripts.

Estimated Program Tuition: $11,880
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $50,100

#13 University of Arizona Eller College of Management – Tucson, Arizona

The University of Arizona is a four-year, public university that was founded in 1885, even before Arizona became a state. Today, the University of Arizona teaches over 42,000 students through 356 academic programs in traditional and online classrooms. The university is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Arizona's prestigious Eller College of Management offers an AACSB International-accredited online MBA that is taught by the same faculty that teaches the on-campus courses. This program is a total of 45-credit hours long and can be completed in as few as 14 months. Students will first cover core business competencies essential to a global business practice and then choose between four market-driven concentrations. The concentrations available in this online MBA are: Finance, Management and Organization, Management Information Systems, and Marketing.

The Marketing concentration focuses on how to gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace with a deep understanding of marketing strategies, tactics, and tools. Students will receive training on how to strengthen their skills in brand management, market research, and product development. Marketing courses within the program include: Market-Based Management, Social Media Marketing, Special Topics in Marketing-Marketing Strategy, Marketing Research for Managers, and Marketing of Innovations.

Students are encouraged to apply at any time with the option of five start dates throughout the year. Official GMAT scores are required within the application process. Students may receive a GMAT waiver if they hold a STEM Bachelor's or Master's degree from a regionally accredited university, a PhD, MD, or JD, or are a military service member or veteran.

Estimated Program Tuition: $45,000
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $72,400

#12 Brandeis University Rabb School of Graduate Professional Studies – Waltham, Massachusetts

Brandeis University is a four-year, private, nonprofit, research university that was founded in 1948. Brandeis consists of five schools and colleges, offering bachelor's through doctoral degrees, to over 5,900 students annually. The university is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Brandeis' Rabb School of Graduate Professional Studies offers an online Master of Science in Digital Marketing and Design. This 30-credit hour program gives students the knowledge and tools to understand and master the wide range of digital channels that are critical to business branding and communication in our digital world today. The curriculum equips students to design marketing campaigns across a variety of digital platforms, optimize campaigns for digital audiences, and capture and use advertising analytics to inform marketing decisions. Students will focus on seven foundational courses in the digital marketing field and then branch off into electives more specific to their skillsets. Foundational courses include: Innovation and User-Centered Design, Digital Marketing Strategy, Principles of Search Engine Marketing, Writing for Digital Environments, Multichannel Marketing Campaigns, Social, Web and Marketing Analytics, Foundations of Data Science and Analytics.

Brandeis offers rolling admissions, but has recommended deadlines if a student is seeking admission for a specific term. There is no GRE or GMAT requirement for admission. If students are still unsure about applying, Brandeis offers the option of taking up to two courses before applying to a degree program.

Estimated Program Tuition: $33,250
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $55,600

#11 University of Florida Warrington College of Business Administration – Gainesville, Florida

The University of Florida is a four-year, public university that started in 1853 as a small seminary. Today, UF offers associate through doctorate programs, with over 4,000 faculty members, to over 49,400 students. The university is regionally accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

UF has not only strived to offer exceptional on-campus courses, but also online programs as well. They were one of the first schools to offer an accredited online degree program. The highly acclaimed Warrington College of Business Administration offers two AACSB International-accredited online MBA program options that have a focus area in Marketing. They offer a two-year option for students with undergraduate degrees in any major. This 48-credit hour program allows students to build a strong core business foundation and then moves into focused study. Also available is a one-year accelerated program for students with business undergraduate degrees awarded in the last seven years. This 32-credit hour program accelerates study by not requiring students to repeat courses covered in a business undergrad. The online degree programs at UF require a 2-day, on-campus requirement every four months to take exams, give presentations, and take advantage of face-to-face interactions with faculty and classmates.

Admissions for the UF MBA program operates on a rolling basis and is highly competitive. Students must provide a official GMAT score from the past five years, as well as have at least two years of full-time professional experience.

Estimated Program Tuition: $58,000
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $69,100

#10 North Carolina State University Jenkins Graduate School of Management – Raleigh, North Carolina

North Carolina State University is a four-year, public university that was founded in 1887 as the North Carolina College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts with the belief that all should have access to higher education. NC State has grown to be the the largest university in North Carolina, employing over 2,000 faculty, through 12 colleges, and teaching almost 34,000 students every year. The university is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

NC State offers relevant and high-quality online degree programs that equal their on-campus counterparts in quality of education and teaching. Among the many online programs available, is an AACSB-accredited, 40-credit hour, Professional Online MBA from the Jenkins Graduate School of Management. The program is delivered in an online format with one three-day Raleigh Residency, and with the option of an additional International Residency. The core curriculum is focused on technology, business processes, and practical applications. Students are given the opportunity to choose a six-credit hour Depth Requirement in a particular business area, including Marketing.

In addition to the depth requirement, students can also choose to complete an optional certificate. The Marketing Certificate is a unique program consisting of 12-credit hours covering marketing concepts and practical applications. The curriculum will cover important marketing topics, including branding to consumer, marketing analytics, developing products/services, and building/maintaining customer relationships.

Applicants to NC State's Professional Online MBA must have two years of full-time employment and submit an official GMAT or GRE score. GMAT/GRE waivers may be granted if applicants have an undergraduate cumulative GPA of a 3.6 or higher from the degree granting institution, a graduate degree, ten or more years of full-time professional work, nine or more hours of an AACSB International-accredited MBA program, or US military service. The Professional Online MBA program has two start dates per year, with two to three admission deadlines.

Estimated Program In-State Tuition: $42,195
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $62,900

#9 Boston University Metropolitan College – Boston, Massachusetts

Boston University is a four-year, private, nonprofit university that was founded in 1839 as the Newbury Biblical Institute. Over the past 177 years, the university has grown in prestige and size. Today, BU offers undergraduate and graduate programs in over 250 fields of study, across two campuses, through 17 schools and colleges, to over 32,000 students every year. The university is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

BU's Metropolitan College started offering part-time programs in 1965, and alone offers over 70 on-campus and online, undergraduate and graduate programs. The Administrative Sciences department offers six MS degrees in management that specialize in a specific industry, Applied Business Analytics Management, Banking & Financial Services Management, Business Continuity, Security & Risk Management, Insurance Management, Project Management, and International Marketing Management.

Their Master of Science in International Marketing Management is offered in a 100% online format and connects students with other professionals from Europe, South America, and Asia. This 12-course program will offer students a solid foundation in business and management as well as cover specific international marketing topics. Core courses within this program include: Financial Concepts, Project Management, Ecommerce, International Business, Economics, and Cultures, Quantitative and Qualitative Decision-Making, and the Innovation Process: Developing New Products and Services.

Students applying into the online MS in International Marketing Management are held to the same academic standards as the on-campus students. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis and can be submitted online. GMAT and GRE scores are not required during admission but can be submitted to strengthen your application.

Estimated Program Tuition: $24,900
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $55,600

#8 University of Massachusetts Amherst Isenberg School of Management – Amherst, Massachusetts

The University of Massachusetts Amherst is a four-year, public university that was founded in 1863. UMass Amherst has grown to be the largest public research university in New England by their excellent academic, research, and community outreach programs. They offer six associate degree programs, 111 bachelor's, 76 master's, and 47 doctoral programs to over 28,600 students annually. The university is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

The Isenberg School of Management offers an AACSB International-accredited Master of Business Administration degree program in a convenient and challenging online format. This accreditation represents the highest standard of achievement for business schools, worldwide. The online MBA program has no residency requirements and consists of 42-credit hours. Students will complete two foundation courses, 11 core MBA courses, and three elective courses. Students are given the choice of five different focus areas for their elective courses, including Marketing. This focus area offers a mix of general business and marketing elective courses that gives students a deep understanding of advertising, branding, communications, and consumer behavior as well as provides managerial skills and business knowledge needed in today's marketplace.

The Isenberg School of Management holds Fall, Spring, and Summer admissions deadlines. Applicants must submit GMAT scores. GMAT scores may be waived for students with one of the following exceptions: a Master's Degree from a US accredited institution with an overall GPA of 3.5 or above plus at least 5 years of work experience; a Doctoral Degree; or a minimum of 10 years post undergraduate professional work experience with leadership and supervisory experience combined with an overall undergraduate GPA of 3.2 or higher.

Estimated Program Tuition: $37,125
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $57,900

#7 Northeastern University D'Amore-McKim School of Business – Boston, Massachusetts

Northeastern University is a four-year, private, nonprofit, research university that was founded in 1898. They offer a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs to over 19,700 students, through nine colleges and schools, at three campuses across the US. The university is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Northeastern offers students highly ranked on-campus and online degree programs. The highly acclaimed D'Amore-McKim School of Business offers an AACSB International-accredited online MBA with a concentration in Marketing. This accreditation represents the highest standard of achievement for business schools, worldwide. This year marks the tenth year they have been offering their MBA program online. The D'Amore-McKim School of Business has earned a reputation for excellence in research, teaching, experiential learning, and innovation and couples that with a decade of experience offering an online MBA program.

This 50-credit hour online MBA program takes 24-27 months to complete. After the 13 foundational core business courses, students choose five courses in the following specializations: Finance, Healthcare Management, High Technology Management, Innovation Entrepreneurship, International Management, Marketing, Supply Chain Management, and Sustainability.

Northeastern's College of Professional Studies additionally offers an MS in Corporate and Organizational Communication. This 45-49-credit hour program offers concentrations in Social Media, Public Relations, Human Resource Management, Project Management, and Leadership. This program is less expensive than the MBA, but does not offer the brand strength of having an MBA from the D'Amore-McKim School.

The MBA admissions requirements include five years of professional experience in leadership of teams, financial and/or budgetary responsibility, and management of staff. While GMAT scores are not required for admission, some students might offer GMAT scores in lieu of the minimum work requirements.

Estimated Program Tuition: $75,650
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $73,400

#6 Johns Hopkins University Zanvyl Krieger School of Arts & Sciences – Baltimore, Maryland

Johns Hopkins University is a four-year, private, nonprofit university that opened its doors in 1876, and today stands as a world leader in teaching and research. The university offers bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and professional programs, across three major campuses, to over 21,000 students annually. They are regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

The Master of Arts in Communication within the Krieger School is offered on-campus in DC, 100% online, or with a combination of both. This 10-course program combines best practices with research in effective communication to design and implement the most effective communication campaigns. This online masters equips professionals with the tools and practice to improve their critical thinking, problem solving, and writing skills to manage teams, projects, and organizations within our highly-interactive business world today. Courses within this program include: Applied Research in Communication, Public and Media Relations, Political Communication, Health Communication, and Corporate and Non-Profit Communication. After core courses are finished, students have the choice of a concentration to tailor their electives. Concentrations available in the program include: Applied Research in Communication, Public and Media Relations, Political Communication, Health Communication, Digital Communication, and Corporate and Non-Profit Communication.

Admissions for the online program are the same as the on-campus counterpart. Admissions are accepted year-round for Summer, Fall, and Spring semester starts. This MA accepts GRE scores, but waives this requirement for students with a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 and higher or at least five years of full-time work experience after completing college.

Estimated Program Tuition: $38,530
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $65,500

#5 University of Southern California Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism – Los Angeles, California

The University of Southern California is a four-year, private, nonprofit university that started in 1880 with 53 students. Over the past 136 years, USC has grown to be one of the nation's leading research universities. They offer a wide variety of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees to over 42,000 annually. The university is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission.

USC's highly esteemed Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, the leader among communication schools, offers an online Master of Communication Management degree. This online program is taught by full-time USC faculty, all with PhDs and extensive professional experience.

The Annenberg 32-credit hour MCM program exhaustively explores communication principles and practices, diving deeply into topics such as research and data synthesis, organizational communication, audience analysis and communication strategies for emerging media. While other programs might train professionals with a business core and then add marketing specific courses at the end of the program, every course in this program is focused on communication professionals in today's workplace. This multidisciplinary program not only covers external marketing, but internal language and problem solving techniques based upon evidence-based research and communication best practices. Courses within this program include: Managing Communication, Strategic Corporate Communication, Communication in Work Settings, Communicating Strategy and Change, Communication, Attitudes, Values and Behavior, Uses of Communication Research, Integrated Marketing Communication Strategies, Online Marketing Comm, Development & Analysis, Global Marketing Communication, and Audience Analysis.

Admissions into the master's degree at the Annenberg School operates on a rolling basis for fall, spring, and summer terms. A GRE or GMAT is recommended within the admissions process.

Estimated Program Tuition: $55,456
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $67,400

#4 University of Texas at Dallas Naveen Jindal School of Management – Richardson, Texas

The University of Texas at Dallas is a four-year, public university that was founded in 1969, and is a member of the greater University of Texas System. UT Dallas has grown to offer nearly 140 undergraduate and graduate degree programs to over 24,500 students every year. Sitting as the largest school among the eight highly esteemed schools at UT Dallas is the Naveen Jindal School of Management. The university is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges, and the Jindal School of Management is accredited by AACSB International. This accreditation represents the highest standard of achievement for business schools, worldwide.

The Jindal School offers an online Master of Science in Marketing degree program, as well as a Professional MBA online with a Marketing concentration. The MS in Marketing consists of 36-credit hours teaching the principles and application of marketing concepts, as well as best practices. The Professional MBA Online Program consists of 53-credit hours with 24 hours of electives that are specific to the marketing lense of business. Students are also given the choice to pursue a dual degree, MBA/Masters in Marketing, with just a combined 63-credit hours total.

Admission into the Jindal School of Management does require either the GMAT or the GRE. Students can apply for an exception if they hold a doctorate degree or if they are a high achieving candidate with an undergraduate degree from a university with an AACSB accredited business school.

Estimated Program In-State Tuition: $31,848
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $69,900

#3 Carnegie Mellon University Tepper School of Business – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Carnegie Mellon University is a four-year, private, nonprofit, research university that was founded in 1900. Today, Carnegie Mellon consists of seven academic schools and colleges offering undergraduate and graduate degree programs to over 12,500 students. The university is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

The prestigious Tepper School of Business, offers an MBA program in three formats, full-time on-campus, part-time on-campus, and part-time online hybrid. Tepper upholds the standards of their prestigious AACSB International-accredited across all formats by offering the same coursework by the same professors with intimate class sizes. Their AACSB accreditation represents the highest standard of achievement for business schools, worldwide.

The Tepper School's online hybrid 32-month MBA consists of weekly synchronous and asynchronous classroom sessions and requires a residency every six weeks. The small class sizes coupled with the on-campus residency promotes a high degree of interaction with professors and peers. This programs gives students a choice between 12 different concentrations, including Marketing. The marketing curriculum incorporates the main topics of product marketing, market entry planning, marketing with social media, segmentation, communications management, pricing/sales forecasting, channel distribution and management and marketing research.

Admission requirements are equal for all three MBA formats, which specific evaluations on leadership potential and the ability to make an impact in the world. Official GMAT scores are preferred, but GRE scores are accepted. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for a program start in September.

Estimated Program Tuition: $46,080
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $100,000

#2 Arizona State University W.P. Carey School of Business – Tempe, Arizona

Arizona State University is a four-year, public university that was founded in 1885 as a normal school. Today, ASU is a large, comprehensive university consisting of seven locations and educating over 50,000 students every year. They offer a wide array of undergraduate and graduate degrees through their 15 academic colleges and schools. The university is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Among the highly acclaimed schools at ASU, is the W. P. Carey School of Business. The Carey School is accredited by AACSB International. This accreditation represents the highest standard of achievement for business schools, worldwide. They offer prospective MBA students many options for how and when to complete their degree, a Full-time MBA, a Part-time MBA, an Online MBA, an Executive MBA, and a Custom Corporate MBA.

The Carey Online MBA uses the same curriculum as the on-campus MBA, and is taught by the same faculty members. The curriculum is delivered one course at a time, allowing students to focus on their studies while balancing career and life responsibilities at the same time. Beyond the core courses, students are given the choice to tailor their degree to their future professional goals. Students can select a concentration between Finance, International Business, Marketing, Supply Chain Management, or opt for a general management degree by selecting courses across concentration topics.

The Carey MBA does require a GMAT or GRE scores. The have four more application deadlines till the end of the year. The beginning of the program requires an on-campus orientation to acclimate students to their peers, professors, and staff to create a seamless transition into their graduate studies.

Estimated Program Tuition: $29,520
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $71,900

#1 Lehigh University College of Business and Economics – Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Lehigh University is a four-year, private, nonprofit university that was founded in 1865. They educate over 7,000 students and offer over over 100 undergraduate and graduate degrees through four distinguished colleges. The university is regionally accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

The College of Business and Economics is accredited by AACSB International. This accreditation represents the highest standard of achievement for business schools, worldwide. They offer three distinct MBA programs: a one-year, full-time, on-campus MBA, a Joint MBA with an Engineering or Educational Leadership degree, and a Flex MBA which is an evening program that is available online or on-campus, or both.

The 36-credit hour Flex MBA is business savvy, globally aware, and economically and environmentally conscious. After completing the core courses, students can choose a concentration topic or their own set of electives. Concentrations available in this program are: Corporate Entrepreneurship, Finance, International Business, Marketing, Project Management, and Supply Chain Management.

The concentration in Marketing focuses on using marketing to create superior customer value and sustainable competitive advantage. Courses within this concentration include: Strategic Marketing Management, Creating Breakthrough Innovations, Marketing Research and Analysis, Sales Management, Marketing Communications Strategies, Strategic Brand Management, Global Marketing Strategies, and Marketing Analytics.

Lehigh's Flex MBA has four application deadlines every year, two in the summer, one in the fall, and one in the spring. The application requirements do include GMAT or GRE test scores. Students can apply for a GMAT/GRE waiver if they have ten years of full-time professional experience or a master's degree combined with a minimum of six years of full-time professional experience.

Estimated Program Tuition: $38,700
PayScale Early Career Median Salary: $72,900