Most Affordable Online MBA Programs in San Francisco

This article lists top online MBA programs from San Francisco colleges and universities for aspiring business professionals to thrive in their chosen industry.

Busy professionals can still further their education by pursuing an online Master of Business Administration (MBA). These programs provide the flexibility needed to balance work and personal commitments. Online MBA degrees cover many topics, including:

  • international business practices
  • management information systems
  • human resource management
  • data analytics

Assess your career and life goals before enrolling in an MBA degree program to ensure you select one that aligns with your ideal job. MBA graduates tend to choose careers as business leaders, such as entrepreneurs and project managers.

Most Affordable Online MBA Programs in San Francisco

Don't let high tuition rates discourage you from attending graduate school. Online colleges and universities offer affordable tuition and financial aid options to help students complete their degrees.

Research each institution to see what unique funding opportunities they offer to help with educational expenses. In addition, ensure the institution you choose is accredited to boost your professional credibility and employability.

Here are some affordable MBA programs from the best online colleges in and near San Francisco.

1. University of San Francisco

The University of San Francisco offers an online MBA through the Masagung Graduate School of Management. The coursework in this program is a mix of on-demand content and live classroom sessions. Some of the courses here include:

  • Financial Management
  • Building and Leading Effective Teams
  • Business Modeling & Design Ideation
  • Marketing Management

Students should expect to participate in client-based projects with several startups to gain work experience. You will learn to collaborate with team members and understand ethical business implications.

2. University of the Pacific

The Eberhardt School of Business at the University of the Pacific offers a self-paced online MBA program. Students can choose between business analytics, finance, leadership, and healthcare concentrations.

This AACSB-accredited program focuses on cultivating leadership skills and providing industry-relevant knowledge. Coursework here consists of:

  • Decision Making and Analytics
  • Power, Conflict, and Negotiations
  • Managerial Economics
  • Leading and Managing Organizations

3. University of California, Davis

The University of California, Davis, is not located in San Francisco but it's less than 100 miles away. The university's Graduate School of Management offers an online MBA with in-person residential experiences.

Qualified applicants can receive GMAT waivers and may be eligible for scholarships or corporate sponsorships. Students should expect to take classes such as:

  • Data Analysis for Managers
  • Managing for Operational Excellence
  • Organizational Strategy and Structure
  • The Individual and Group Dynamics

4. Golden Gate University

Golden Gate University offers its online MBA in fully online and hybrid formats. You do not need to submit GRE or GMAT scores. This program provides students with business education through an activity-based learning approach.

MBA students must have strong writing and mathematical proficiencies. Some of the courses here include:

  • Information Technology
  • Operations and Supply Chain Management
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Public Administration

5. San Francisco Bay University

San Francisco Bay University's online MBA program provides foundational knowledge by teaching interdisciplinary business concepts. Learners may pursue concentrations in marketing management, management, or business analytics.

This program emphasizes the development of written and oral communication skills. This is important as effective teamwork is vital to success in today's global business environment. Coursework here comprises:

  • Logistics and Operations Management
  • Business Capstone
  • Agile Project Management
  • Technology and Product Management

Other Online MBA Degrees in the U.S.

Some of the best business schools nationwide offer online MBA programs. These top affordable MBA programs provide networking opportunities with peers and industry professionals. You can learn critical thinking and business strategy skills at your own pace with these online programs.

Top industries like healthcare and manufacturing are looking for MBA graduates to fill leadership and management roles. MBA holders are essential for driving innovation and improving organizational performance.

Here are some of the best online MBA programs in the US.

1. Arizona State University

Arizona State University offers an online MBA through the W.P. Carey School of Business. Students take one core course at a time and can customize their degree program with flexible electives and concurrent degree options.

Students may utilize transfer credits to complete their degrees quickly and affordably. Some of the courses here include:

  • Ethical Issues for Managers
  • Create and Deliver Customer Value: Marketing Management
  • Leading People, Teams and Organization: Organizational Theory
  • Decisions, Market Structure, and Games: Managerial Economics

2. Walden University

Walden University's online MBA offers general, human resource management, and healthcare management specializations. This program teaches students soft skills (e.g., negotiation and systems thinking) to be impactful leaders.

The new Believe & Achieve Scholarship is available to all eligible students to help support their educational journey. Courses here include:

  • Managing People and Promoting Collaboration
  • Dynamic Leadership
  • Business Essentials
  • Improving Business Performance

FAQs About Low-Cost Online MBA Programs in San Francisco

Here are the answers to frequently asked questions about low-cost online MBA programs in San Francisco.

What Is the Average Tuition Cost for an Online MBA in San Francisco?

Tuition costs for an online MBA vary among institutions in San Francisco. Several factors influence online MBA tuition costs, such as:

  • institution type
  • residency status
  • fees and expenses
  • financial aid availability

One example of this cost is the University of San Francisco's online MBA program. This school's program costs $1,750 per unit. There is also a one-time enhancement fee of $750. With 40 units to complete, University of San Francisco students will pay approximately $70,750 in total tuition before financial aid.

Where Can I Find Scholarships or Financial Aid for an Online MBA Program in San Francisco?

Students can find scholarships and financial aid options for online MBA programs in San Francisco in several ways. Many local institutions provide scholarships and grants to support student's education and improve retention rates.

In addition, learners should fill out the FAFSA online form to see what financial aid they are eligible for. Apply early to maximize your benefits package. After applying, you will receive a student aid report (SAR). Here you will see what federal student aid you can receive.

How Long Will My Affordable Online MBA Program Take To Complete?

The time it takes to complete an online MBA varies from person to person. Several factors influence the time it takes to complete this graduate degree, such as:

  • program format
  • specializations
  • use of transfer credits
  • institutional policies

Part-time online MBAs take longer than full-time ones because students enroll in fewer courses per semester. Also, using transfer credits can help you complete an MBA in a shorter time frame. Check with your institution to see if they have strict policies concerning the timeline of their MBA programs.

Earn Your MBA Online Today

Earning an online MBA is the first step toward a fulfilling and profitable career. Learn about fundamental business principles and gain hands-on experience in various industries. Contact one of the featured institutions on Learn.org for more information.