10 Best Online MBA/MS Dual Degree Programs 2027

An MBA gives you a broad view of how organizations run, but many leadership roles also call for deep expertise in a specific function. An MBA/MS dual degree lets you build both at once, pairing core business training with a Master of Science in a field like information technology, human resources, supply chain management, or cybersecurity. Of all the online dual MBA programs available, this is the most flexible category, since the MS half can be tailored to almost any business specialty.

Because shared courses count toward both degrees, many of these programs take only a semester or two longer than a standalone MBA. The schools below range from 18-month accelerated programs to part-time options built for full-time professionals, and the sections that follow cover coursework, costs, financial aid, and career outlook.

What Is an Online MBA/MS Degree?

An MBA/MS dual degree combines a Master of Business Administration with a Master of Science in a specialized discipline, and you graduate with two separate diplomas. Some programs run both degrees concurrently, while others let you complete one master's and then add the second with a reduced course load. If cost is your main concern, comparing affordable MS/MBA dual degree programs can help you narrow your search further.

Most programs require between 48 and 63 credits, compared with 66 to 78 credits if you earned both degrees separately. The MBA side covers accounting, finance, marketing, economics, and strategy, while the MS side adds technical depth in your chosen field. Common MS pairings include information technology, management information systems, human resource management, supply chain management, operations management, cybersecurity, and business analytics.

Best Online MBA/MS Dual Degree Programs

The programs below offer MBA/MS dual degrees that you can complete fully or mostly online. Each one pairs an established MBA with a specialized MS that builds expertise in a high-demand business function.

1. Emporia State University

Emporia State University in Kansas offers an online MBA and MS in Information Technology dual degree that you can finish in as few as 18 months. The program totals 51 credit hours across 17 seven-week courses, compared with 66 if you completed the degrees separately. Emporia State's School of Business and Technology is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

IT coursework covers project management, systems analysis and design, database management, cloud computing, and enterprise architecture, while business courses address managerial economics, financial management, and strategy. The STEM-designated program welcomes students with or without a technology background, though you'll need statistics and object-oriented programming (or relevant IT experience) before you start. Six start dates per year and a flat tuition rate for in-state and out-of-state students add to its appeal.

2. Lamar University

If speed and affordability are top priorities, Lamar University's online MBA and MS in Management Information Systems dual degree deserves a close look. You can complete all 48 credit hours in as few as 18 months, taking seven- and eight-week courses with multiple start dates throughout the year. Lamar's College of Business holds AACSB accreditation.

MIS coursework uses SAP-enabled courses and lets you choose electives like database management, cybersecurity, and IT project management. The GMAT and GRE are waived for applicants with a bachelor's GPA of 2.5 or higher, and students with non-business degrees may need a few leveling courses. Graduates often target roles like director of IT, chief information officer, or cloud architect.

3. Auburn University

Auburn University's Harbert College of Business lets online MBA students add a second master's in information systems, supply chain management, or industrial and systems engineering. The online MBA paired with the MS in Supply Chain Management, for example, requires 57 total credit hours. Harbert is AACSB-accredited.

Information systems students complete a major project in their final semester with a faculty advisor, which can be done and presented at a distance. Most dual tracks also include an integrated business project and case analysis near the end of the program. You'll apply to and meet admission requirements for each program separately.

4. Temple University

Through Temple University's Fox School of Business, you can pair the Fox Online MBA with an entirely online MS in Human Resource Management. Up to 15 credits count toward both degrees, bringing the combined total to 63 credits instead of 78. Fox is an AACSB-accredited business school.

This pairing suits professionals who want to lead HR departments or move into people-focused executive roles. You'll meet with your primary advisor to build a customized plan, then apply to the second program before your final semester in the first. Fox also offers MBA dual degrees in other areas, so it's worth asking about the full range of options.

5. Indiana Wesleyan University

Indiana Wesleyan University's fully online dual degree combines an MBA in Project Management with a Master of Information Technology Management. The program requires 60 credit hours, compared with 72 if earned separately, and students who already hold a current PMP certification can skip several project management courses. IWU's business programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

You'll take 21 courses spanning management, finance, marketing, economics, project management, and IT management. Tuition stays locked at your starting rate as long as you remain continuously enrolled, which makes budgeting easier. As a Christian university, IWU also provides chaplain support alongside tutoring and technical help.

6. Kettering University

Kettering University Online in Michigan takes a stackable approach, letting graduates of its online MS in Operations Management earn an MBA with just four additional courses. A similar path pairs the MBA with an MS in Lean Manufacturing, which was developed with General Motors and blends engineering theory with Lean Six Sigma skills. Both programs are 100% online, and Kettering holds institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

The online MBA doesn't require the GMAT and can be customized with a graduate certificate in global leadership, healthcare management, operations management, or supply chain. Many students complete both degrees in about two years. If you work in manufacturing, automotive, or operations, Kettering's industry connections make it an especially practical fit.

7. University of Maryland Global Campus

Built for working adults and military-connected students, the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) offers a dual degree pathway that lets graduates of its master's programs in cybersecurity management and policy, cybersecurity technology, or data analytics add an MBA. The pathway saves up to nine credits, leaving 21 credits of MBA core courses and a capstone. UMGC's MBA is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).

You'll need to start the second degree within two years of finishing the first, and each degree must be completed within five years. Courses are designed for online learners, and success coaches help you map out your sequence. This route works well if you want technical credentials first and plan to add business leadership training later.

8. Eastern Illinois University

Eastern Illinois University (EIU) pairs its MBA in Applied Management with an MS in Cybersecurity from the School of Technology. Shared courses reduce the total from 65 credits to 56, and the program is delivered online with a limited on-campus requirement in Charleston, Illinois. EIU's Lumpkin College of Business and Technology holds AACSB accreditation.

Three management information systems courses count toward both degrees, linking business strategy with security risk management. This combination is a strong option if you want to lead security teams or bridge the gap between IT security and executive leadership. Plan ahead for any campus sessions, since the program isn't entirely remote.

9. University of Massachusetts Amherst

Data-minded business students can pair an MBA with an MS in Business Analytics at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, through the AACSB-accredited Isenberg School of Management. The combined program requires 61 credits, and online students can complete it part time over up to four years.

Business analytics coursework builds skills in data modeling, predictive analytics, and data-driven decision-making that complement MBA strategy and finance courses. The part-time online format is designed for professionals who want to keep working while they study. A full-time, on-campus version is also available for students who prefer an in-person experience.

10. University of Michigan-Dearborn

The University of Michigan-Dearborn's MBA/MS in Supply Chain Management combines evening on-campus classes with numerous online course options, so you can build a schedule around work. Part-time students typically finish in about three years, and the AACSB-accredited College of Business accepts students from all academic backgrounds.

Recently redesigned, the MBA covers business analytics, AI applications, and stakeholder-focused leadership. The STEM-designated MS in Supply Chain Management focuses on operations optimization, sustainable sourcing, and data-driven supply chain tools. If you live in southeast Michigan, the program's blended format and ties to the region's manufacturing and automotive sectors are major advantages.

How We Rank Schools

To create this list, we review data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), along with program-level details published by each university. Since MBA/MS programs vary so widely by specialty, the list was built to cover a range of in-demand MS fields. These factors guided the selections:

• Accreditation: Preference went to schools with AACSB, ACBSP, or IACBE business accreditation.
• Online availability: Fully online programs ranked highest, and any campus requirements are noted in each entry.
• Credit efficiency: Programs with meaningful shared coursework and reasonable total credit counts were favored.
• Career alignment: MS specialties tied to high-demand roles in technology, HR, supply chain, and cybersecurity earned extra weight.
• Student outcomes: Publicly reported graduation rates and outcomes data were reviewed where available.

Learn more about our ranking methodology.

What Will You Learn in an MBA/MS Degree Program?

Your MBA coursework builds a foundation in financial and managerial accounting, corporate finance, marketing, economics, organizational behavior, and strategic management. Many programs also include quantitative analysis, business analytics, and a capstone where you develop a strategic plan for a real or simulated organization.

The MS coursework depends on your specialty. An online master's in information technology or MIS track covers systems analysis, databases, cloud computing, and IT project management, while a master's in human resource management focuses on talent management, compensation, and employment law. Supply chain programs teach logistics, procurement, and operations, and cybersecurity programs address risk management, network security, and incident response.

How Long Does It Take To Earn an MBA/MS Degree Online?

Accelerated online MBA/MS programs with around 48 to 51 credits can be completed in as few as 18 months. Most programs with 55 to 63 credits take about two to three years, depending on how many courses you take each term.

Part-time students often need three to four years, and some schools allow up to five years for each degree. Stackable or sequential pathways may take longer overall, but they let you earn one credential at a time and decide on the second degree later.

How Much Does an Online MBA/MS Degree Cost?

Total tuition for an online MBA/MS dual degree typically ranges from about $18,000 to $60,000 or more. Regional public universities with flat online rates sit at the lower end of that range, while flagship universities and private schools tend to cost more.

Credit totals have a major impact on price, so a 48-credit program can cost thousands less than a 63-credit program at a similar per-credit rate. Watch for leveling or prerequisite courses, technology fees, and graduate certificate add-ons, which can increase your total cost.

Financial Aid for Online MBA/MS Degrees

Several funding sources can help you manage the cost of earning two degrees. Many working professionals combine employer support with federal aid to limit borrowing.

• Employer tuition assistance: Many employers pay for graduate business and technology degrees, often up to $5,250 per year tax-free. Exploring companies that offer tuition reimbursement can show you how common and generous these programs are.
• Federal student loans: Graduate students can use Direct Unsubsidized Loans to cover part of their costs, within annual and aggregate limits. Completing the FAFSA for an MBA is also required for many school-based awards.
• Scholarships: Business schools, professional associations, and industry groups in fields like HR, IT, and supply chain offer graduate scholarships. Some schools also offer tuition discounts for alumni or employees of partner organizations.
• Graduate assistantships: On-campus and hybrid students may qualify for assistantships that provide tuition waivers or stipends. Online students should ask whether remote research or teaching roles are available.
• Military benefits: Service members and veterans may be able to apply education benefits toward both degrees. Checking whether the GI Bill covers an MBA can help you plan your funding.

How To Choose the Right MBA/MS Degree

With so many possible pairings, choosing an MBA/MS program starts with your career goals. These factors can help you compare your options more effectively.

MS Specialty and Career Fit

Pick the MS field that aligns with the role you want, whether that's IT leadership, HR management, supply chain operations, or cybersecurity strategy. If you're unsure, compare job postings for your target role to see which credentials employers request most often.

Business Accreditation

AACSB, ACBSP, and IACBE accreditation all signal quality business education, with AACSB being the most widely recognized internationally. Check whether accreditation covers both the MBA and the MS, since they may be housed in different colleges.

Concurrent vs. Stackable Structure

Some programs run both degrees at once, while others let you finish one master's and add the second with fewer courses. Stackable options offer more flexibility if you want to earn one credential first and decide on the second later.

Prerequisites and Leveling Courses

Technical MS programs may require statistics, programming, or IT experience before you start, and MBA programs may require foundation courses for non-business majors. These extra courses can add time and cost, so check requirements before you apply.

Admission Requirements

Many online MBA/MS programs waive the GMAT or GRE for applicants with strong undergraduate GPAs or work experience. Looking into MBA programs with no GMAT or GRE requirement can help you find schools with flexible admission policies.

Career Outlook With an Online MBA/MS Degree

MBA/MS graduates often move into management roles that require both business leadership and technical expertise. For students pairing the MBA with information technology, MIS, or cybersecurity, one of the most common and lucrative paths is computer and information systems manager, a role that plans and directs an organization's technology strategy and teams.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer and information systems managers earn a median annual wage of $175,140. Employment is projected to grow 16% through 2035, much faster than the average for all occupations, with about 53,500 openings expected each year. Graduates with HR, supply chain, or operations specialties can pursue similar leadership tracks within their own functions.

FAQs About the Best Online MBA/MS Degree Programs

Choosing between an MBA, an MS, or both can raise questions about value, workload, and career fit. These answers address several of the most common ones.

Is an MBA/MS Better Than an MBA With a Concentration?

An MBA with a concentration adds a few specialized electives, while an MBA/MS gives you a full second master's degree with much deeper technical training. The dual degree takes longer and costs more, but it can be the stronger choice if your target roles expect specialized credentials. Reviewing common MBA concentrations and specializations can help you decide whether a concentration would cover what you need.

Should You Earn an MS or an MBA First?

In stackable programs, starting with the MS can make sense if you need technical skills right away for your current job. Starting with the MBA may be better if you're aiming for a broader management role or still deciding on a specialty. Concurrent programs remove this decision by blending courses from both degrees throughout your studies.

Do You Need a Technical Background for an MBA/MS in IT or Cybersecurity?

Many programs accept students without a technical background, though you may need prerequisite courses in statistics or programming. Relevant work experience can sometimes substitute for these prerequisites. Comparing an MS in cybersecurity vs. an MBA can also help you understand which skills each degree emphasizes.

Can Professional Certifications Count Toward an MBA/MS?

Some programs award credit or waive courses for professional certifications like the PMP, especially in project management and IT tracks. These waivers can shorten your timeline and lower your total cost. Ask each school how it evaluates certifications before you enroll, since policies vary widely.

Are STEM-Designated MBA/MS Programs Worth Considering?

STEM-designated programs emphasize quantitative and technical skills, which can strengthen your qualifications for analytics and technology leadership roles. For international students on F-1 visas, STEM designation also extends Optional Practical Training eligibility. Keep in mind that many online programs don't qualify for student visas, so international students should confirm format and eligibility first.

Explore Online MBA/MS Dual Degrees

An online MBA/MS dual degree can help you combine business leadership with specialized expertise in the function you want to lead. Browse programs through Learn.org and connect directly with schools to get personalized information about pairings, admission requirements, and costs.