Key Takeaways
- Atlanta hosts five major MBA programs anchored by Emory Goizueta and Georgia Tech Scheller, both nationally ranked.
- More than 18 Fortune 500 headquarters, including Coca-Cola, Delta, UPS, and Home Depot, recruit from local programs.
- MBA holders earn roughly $2.5 million more over a lifetime, and Atlanta's lower cost of living boosts net ROI.
- Full-time, part-time, and online formats are available across all five schools, with GMAT waivers increasingly common.
Atlanta is home to 18 Fortune 500 headquarters, including Coca-Cola, Delta Air Lines, UPS, and Home Depot, giving MBA graduates direct access to corporate leadership pipelines that most metros cannot match. The city's fintech sector has added thousands of jobs in the past five years, with companies like Kabbage (now part of American Express), Greenlight, and Cardlytics expanding operations across Midtown and the Westside.
The tension for prospective students is real: full-time tuition at Emory Goizueta MBA runs above $130,000 for the two-year program, while Georgia State Robinson and Kennesaw State Coles offer comparable regional employer networks at a fraction of that cost. Georgia Tech Scheller sits in between, with a STEM-designated curriculum that appeals to international students seeking OPT extensions. Mercer Stetson adds a flexible option for working professionals in the northern suburbs. Median post-MBA salaries in the Atlanta metro vary by roughly $40,000 depending on program selectivity, format, and industry placement, a gap that makes ROI analysis essential rather than optional. You can explore the full range of best MBA schools in Georgia for additional context on how these programs compare statewide.
Best MBA Programs in Atlanta: 2026 Rankings
Atlanta's MBA landscape spans elite private research universities, powerhouse public institutions, and accessible regional programs that collectively serve every career stage and budget. Whether you want a STEM-designated degree from Georgia Tech Scheller, a consulting-focused Goizueta MBA at Emory, or an affordable evening program at a University System of Georgia campus, the metro area delivers Fortune 500 recruiting pipelines and a cost of living well below peer cities like New York or San Francisco. Below, we rank the top Georgia MBA programs based on institutional outcomes, program breadth, and overall value for working professionals.
- University graduation and retention rates
- Tuition and net price value
- Program breadth and concentration options
- Admissions selectivity indicators
- Graduate earnings ten years out
- Independent program research
- College Scorecard graduate earnings — collegescorecard.ed.gov
- NCES-IPEDS federal institutional data — nces.ed.gov
- Internal program database
Georgia Institute of Technology
Georgia Tech's Scheller College of Business ranks among the nation's top part-time MBA programs, holding the No. 9 spot nationally in U.S. News' 2026 rankings and earning the No. 1 Executive MBA in Georgia three years running from QS. Its STEM-designated MBA appeals to professionals targeting technology, operations, and analytics roles, while two international immersion trips and a cohort-based structure set it apart for globally minded leaders. As a public university with a 94% graduation rate and a 14.1% admission rate, Georgia Tech pairs academic rigor with strong ROI: in-state graduate tuition starts at roughly $15,962, and the university's median alumni earnings reach approximately $102,772 ten years after enrollment.
- 17-month cohort program with weekend classes
- 50 credit hours with global strategy capstone
- Two international trips to emerging markets
- Rolling admissions; fall start only
- Typically 10 to 15 years of professional experience
- GMAT may be required for admission
- STEM-designated part-time evening MBA
- 14 concentration options including Marketing
- 33 total credit hours; test optional
- Supplemental concentrations available
- Hybrid delivery for working professionals
- Located at Scheller's Tech Square campus
- No. 1 Executive MBA in Georgia per QS
- 17-month hybrid weekend format
- Global Business or Management of Technology tracks
- Leadership development and career services
- Cohort-driven learning with experienced peers
- Friday and Saturday class schedule
- No. 1 Executive MBA in Georgia per QS
- 17-month hybrid weekend format
- Global Business or Management of Technology tracks
- Leadership development and career services
- Cohort-driven learning with experienced peers
- Friday and Saturday class schedule
- Dual degree with Morehouse School of Medicine
- Complete MBA portion in one year
- 15 transferable credit hours from MD program
- MCAT scores accepted in lieu of GMAT
- Merit-based scholarships available
- Healthcare leadership and entrepreneurship focus
MBA - Global Business — Hybrid
Master of Business Administration (MBA), Marketing — Hybrid
Executive MBA, Global Business — Hybrid
Executive MBA, Management of Technology — Hybrid
M.D./MBA Program — On-Campus
Emory University
Emory University's Goizueta Business School is one of Atlanta's most prestigious private MBA programs, offering deep concentrations in entrepreneurship, marketing, and healthcare through its full-time, on-campus format. With a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio and a university-wide 91.1% graduation rate, Goizueta delivers a high-touch experience that extends into dual-degree partnerships with Emory's law, medical, and public health schools. Tuition sits at approximately $48,750 per year, reflecting its private institution status, though the university's median net price is roughly $22,585 after aid.
- Campus-based with Entrepreneurship or Marketing tracks
- Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation access
- AI in Marketing and Sports Marketing courses
- Entrepreneurs in Residence mentorship program
- Experiential learning embedded in curriculum
- Faculty with real-world entrepreneurial backgrounds
- Campus-based with Entrepreneurship or Marketing tracks
- Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation access
- AI in Marketing and Sports Marketing courses
- Entrepreneurs in Residence mentorship program
- Experiential learning embedded in curriculum
- Faculty with real-world entrepreneurial backgrounds
- Four-year combined JD and MBA program
- 49 business and 79 law semester hours
- Separate admissions to law and business schools
- Five law and three business semesters of tuition
- Prepares graduates for corporate leadership roles
- Collaboration with Emory School of Law
- Five-year dual MD and MBA degree
- One or two-year MBA completion options
- 50 credit hours of business coursework
- Global experiences integrated into program
- Financial aid available for dual-degree students
- Bridges clinical expertise with business acumen
- Five-semester dual degree with Rollins School
- Health Policy, Global Health, or Epidemiology tracks
- Minimum 80 total credit hours across schools
- GMAT accepted for MPH admission
- Summer internship opportunities encouraged
- Separate applications to Goizueta and Rollins
- Five-semester dual degree with Rollins School
- Health Policy, Global Health, or Epidemiology tracks
- Minimum 80 total credit hours across schools
- GMAT accepted for MPH admission
- Summer internship opportunities encouraged
- Separate applications to Goizueta and Rollins
- Five-semester dual degree with Rollins School
- Health Policy, Global Health, or Epidemiology tracks
- Minimum 80 total credit hours across schools
- GMAT accepted for MPH admission
- Summer internship opportunities encouraged
- Separate applications to Goizueta and Rollins
Full-Time MBA, Entrepreneurship — On-Campus
Full-Time MBA, Marketing — On-Campus
Juris Doctor and Master of Business Administration (JD/MBA) — On-Campus
MD/MBA — On-Campus
MBA/MPH, Health Policy Management, Global Health, or Epidemiology — On-Campus
MPH/MBA, Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences — On-Campus
MPH/MBA, Environmental Health — On-Campus
Georgia State University
Georgia State University's J. Mack Robinson College of Business sits in the heart of downtown Atlanta and offers one of the broadest MBA concentration menus in the state, with 16 specialization options spanning finance, hospitality, information systems, and human resources. The Robinson Executive MBA, held at GSU's Buckhead facility, requires no GMAT and draws cohorts with an average salary of roughly $156,000. As a public university, Georgia State keeps tuition accessible at approximately $8,664 in-state and $25,116 out-of-state. The university's overall graduation rate is 53.1%, though its Innovation Studio and embedded graduate certificate model give MBA students strong experiential learning pathways.
- 16 concentration options with embedded certificates
- Finance, HR, Information Systems, and more
- Innovation Studio for interdisciplinary projects
- Dual degree options with other GSU colleges
- Hybrid delivery with downtown Atlanta classes
- In-state tuition approximately $8,664 per year
- 16 concentration options with embedded certificates
- Finance, HR, Information Systems, and more
- Innovation Studio for interdisciplinary projects
- Dual degree options with other GSU colleges
- Hybrid delivery with downtown Atlanta classes
- In-state tuition approximately $8,664 per year
- 16 concentration options with embedded certificates
- Finance, HR, Information Systems, and more
- Innovation Studio for interdisciplinary projects
- Dual degree options with other GSU colleges
- Hybrid delivery with downtown Atlanta classes
- In-state tuition approximately $8,664 per year
- 16 concentration options with embedded certificates
- Finance, HR, Information Systems, and more
- Innovation Studio for interdisciplinary projects
- Dual degree options with other GSU colleges
- Hybrid delivery with downtown Atlanta classes
- In-state tuition approximately $8,664 per year
- 16 concentration options with embedded certificates
- Finance, HR, Information Systems, and more
- Innovation Studio for interdisciplinary projects
- Dual degree options with other GSU colleges
- Hybrid delivery with downtown Atlanta classes
- In-state tuition approximately $8,664 per year
- 16 concentration options with embedded certificates
- Finance, HR, Information Systems, and more
- Innovation Studio for interdisciplinary projects
- Dual degree options with other GSU colleges
- Hybrid delivery with downtown Atlanta classes
- In-state tuition approximately $8,664 per year
- 16 concentration options with embedded certificates
- Finance, HR, Information Systems, and more
- Innovation Studio for interdisciplinary projects
- Dual degree options with other GSU colleges
- Hybrid delivery with downtown Atlanta classes
- In-state tuition approximately $8,664 per year
MBA, Finance — Hybrid
MBA/Master of Health Administration — On-Campus
MBA, Human Resources Management — Hybrid
Executive MBA — On-Campus
J.D. & M.B.A. — On-Campus
MBA, Hospitality Administration — On-Campus
MBA, Information Systems — On-Campus
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw State University's Coles College of Business is one of the largest AACSB-accredited business schools in Georgia, offering nine MBA concentrations that include cybersecurity, digital marketing, entrepreneurship, and fintech. The evening and Executive MBA formats accommodate working professionals, while a dual MBA-MSIS option targets those bridging business and technology. As a public institution, Kennesaw State delivers exceptional affordability: in-state tuition runs roughly $6,702, with out-of-state students paying around $21,390. The university's overall graduation rate is 52.2%.
- AACSB-accredited with 9 concentration options
- Cybersecurity, Digital Marketing, and Fintech tracks
- Part-time accelerated format completable in 18 months
- Evening classes designed for working professionals
- CPA exam prep with discounted Becker review
- Military benefits accepted
- AACSB-accredited with 9 concentration options
- Cybersecurity, Digital Marketing, and Fintech tracks
- Part-time accelerated format completable in 18 months
- Evening classes designed for working professionals
- CPA exam prep with discounted Becker review
- Military benefits accepted
- AACSB-accredited with 9 concentration options
- Cybersecurity, Digital Marketing, and Fintech tracks
- Part-time accelerated format completable in 18 months
- Evening classes designed for working professionals
- CPA exam prep with discounted Becker review
- Military benefits accepted
- AACSB-accredited with 9 concentration options
- Cybersecurity, Digital Marketing, and Fintech tracks
- Part-time accelerated format completable in 18 months
- Evening classes designed for working professionals
- CPA exam prep with discounted Becker review
- Military benefits accepted
- AACSB-accredited with 9 concentration options
- Cybersecurity, Digital Marketing, and Fintech tracks
- Part-time accelerated format completable in 18 months
- Evening classes designed for working professionals
- CPA exam prep with discounted Becker review
- Military benefits accepted
- 54 total credit hours across both degrees
- Evening MBA plus 100% online MSIS courses
- Blends business strategy with technology skills
- Hybrid format for maximum flexibility
- Prepares for global technology leadership roles
- Fall, spring, or summer entry terms
- AACSB-accredited with 9 concentration options
- Cybersecurity, Digital Marketing, and Fintech tracks
- Part-time accelerated format completable in 18 months
- Evening classes designed for working professionals
- CPA exam prep with discounted Becker review
- Military benefits accepted
Master of Business Administration, Information Security and Assurance — Online
Master of Business Administration, Accounting — On-Campus
Master of Business Administration, Organizational Entrepreneurship and Innovation — Hybrid
Master of Business Administration, Digital Marketing — On-Campus
Executive Master of Business Administration — Hybrid
Dual MBA-MSIS — Hybrid
Master of Social Work and Master of Business Administration (MSW/MBA) — On-Campus
Business Administration/Information Systems Dual Master’s Degree (MBA/MSIS) — Hybrid
University of Georgia
The University of Georgia's Terry College of Business, based in Athens with Executive MBA weekend classes held in Atlanta, offers nine concentration tracks and an MBA-MSBA STEM Track that qualifies international students for a three-year U.S. work permit. Fortune Education has ranked UGA's Executive MBA No. 1 in Georgia. In-state tuition is approximately $11,002 and out-of-state about $29,774, making it one of the strongest public-school values in the Southeast. The university boasts an 89.7% overall graduation rate and a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
- 9 concentrations including FinTech and Social Innovation
- MBA-MSBA STEM Track for analytics careers
- International residency included in curriculum
- Leadership Fellows Program available
- Small cohorts with personalized career alignment
- Applied learning with corporate partners
- Ranked No. 1 in Georgia by Fortune Education
- 18-month hybrid format with Atlanta weekend classes
- International residency component included
- Access to 75,000+ Terry College alumni network
- Certificate options in Lean Six Sigma and more
- 50/50 online and classroom learning split
- Ranked No. 1 in Georgia by Fortune Education
- 18-month hybrid format with Atlanta weekend classes
- International residency component included
- Access to 75,000+ Terry College alumni network
- Certificate options in Lean Six Sigma and more
- 50/50 online and classroom learning split
- Ranked No. 1 in Georgia by Fortune Education
- 18-month hybrid format with Atlanta weekend classes
- International residency component included
- Access to 75,000+ Terry College alumni network
- Certificate options in Lean Six Sigma and more
- 50/50 online and classroom learning split
- Ranked No. 1 in Georgia by Fortune Education
- 18-month hybrid format with Atlanta weekend classes
- International residency component included
- Access to 75,000+ Terry College alumni network
- Certificate options in Lean Six Sigma and more
- 50/50 online and classroom learning split
- Three-year or four-year dual degree options
- Focus areas in banking, entrepreneurship, finance
- Two years of business experience preferred
- Campus-based program in Athens, GA
- GRE waiver available for MBA applicants
- Combines legal and management training
Full-Time MBA, Marketing — On-Campus
Executive MBA — Hybrid
Executive MBA, Workforce Diversity — Hybrid
Executive MBA, Leading Change — Hybrid
Executive MBA, Lean Six Sigma Green Belt — Hybrid
J.D./M.B.A. — On-Campus
MBA/MPH, Health Policy and Management — On-Campus
Mercer University
Mercer University's Stetson-Hatcher School of Business holds AACSB accreditation, placing it in the top 5% of business schools worldwide. Its MBA offers six concentrations and flexible completion through online, evening, or full-time formats, making it well suited for professionals who need schedule adaptability. The Healthcare Management and Analytics track is a particular standout for those targeting Georgia's growing health sector. As a private university, Mercer charges a flat tuition of roughly $14,971 regardless of residency, and the institution maintains an 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio. The university's overall graduation rate is approximately 69.6%.
- AACSB accredited, top 5% globally
- 6 concentrations including Healthcare Analytics
- 30 to 36 total credit hours
- Online, evening, or full-time delivery formats
- Personalized career development support
- Combined degree options available with law school
- Dual MBA and Juris Doctor degrees
- Hybrid program with evening MBA courses
- Credit sharing between law and business schools
- Full-time law school attendance in first year
- Networking across legal and business fields
- Located in Macon with Atlanta career reach
Master of Business Administration (MBA), Healthcare Management and Analytics — Hybrid
Combined MBA/JD — Hybrid
Morehouse School of Medicine
Morehouse School of Medicine partners with Georgia Tech's Scheller College to offer a five-year MD/MBA dual degree aimed squarely at physicians seeking business and leadership skills. Students can transfer 15 credit hours from their MD coursework, shortening both time and cost. The program accepts MCAT scores in place of the GMAT and provides merit-based scholarships. As the only HBCU medical school in Georgia, Morehouse brings a distinctive mission-driven lens to healthcare leadership education.
- Five-year dual MD and MBA degree
- Partnership with Georgia Tech Scheller College
- 15 credit hours transferable from MD program
- MCAT scores accepted instead of GMAT
- Merit-based scholarships available
- Hybrid structure for healthcare entrepreneurs
MD/MBA — Hybrid
Berry College
Berry College's AACSB-accredited MBA, located in Mount Berry, offers a remarkably affordable 30-credit program at roughly $20,000 in total tuition. Its Healthcare Management and Professional Management tracks use a hybrid model with evening classes once per week, making it practical for working adults. The 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio fosters close faculty mentorship and professional networking. The university's overall graduation rate is about 69.5%.
- AACSB accredited at $20,000 total tuition
- 30 credit hours completable in five semesters
- Healthcare Management or Professional Management tracks
- Hybrid format with evening classes at 6:00 PM
- Small class sizes build lasting professional networks
- No prior business degree required for admission
- AACSB accredited at $20,000 total tuition
- 30 credit hours completable in five semesters
- Healthcare Management or Professional Management tracks
- Hybrid format with evening classes at 6:00 PM
- Small class sizes build lasting professional networks
- No prior business degree required for admission
Master of Business Administration, Healthcare Management — Hybrid
Master of Business Administration, Professional Management — Hybrid
Augusta University
Augusta University's Hull College of Business offers an AACSB-accredited MBA with a Healthcare Management concentration designed to be completed in just one year and 30 credit hours. Aimed at clinical professionals and healthcare managers, the program covers health policy, operations, and economics. In-state tuition is approximately $6,992 and out-of-state roughly $21,060, with the university's overall graduation rate at 48.8%. An MD/MBA dual-degree track is also available for medical students.
- AACSB-accredited Healthcare Management concentration
- 30 credit hours completable in one year
- Designed for clinical professionals and managers
- Work experience required for admission
- Waivers available for advanced degree holders
- Must complete within five consecutive years
- Combined medical and business dual degree
- 90% in-person with 10% online coursework
- Completable within four years total
- Healthcare management leadership preparation
- Hybrid format blends clinical and business study
- Located at Augusta University campus
Master of Business Administration, Healthcare Management — Hybrid
MD/MBA Dual Degree Program — Hybrid
Clayton State University
Clayton State University, located just south of Atlanta in Morrow, delivers one of the most affordable AACSB-accredited MBAs in Georgia. With in-state tuition at roughly $6,493 and eight concentration options including Supply Chain Management, Data Analytics, and Human Resource Leadership, it targets cost-conscious professionals who need flexibility. Courses run in eight-week sessions with online and on-campus options, and the school's proximity to Hartsfield-Jackson Airport bolsters its supply chain and logistics offerings.
- 8 concentrations including Supply Chain Management
- 33 credit hours completable in 12 to 24 months
- No entrance exam required for admission
- 8-week course sessions for faster completion
- Three annual start dates: fall, spring, summer
- Near Atlanta airport and major logistics hubs
- AACSB-accredited with online delivery
- Data Analytics and HR Leadership tracks available
- Five eight-week terms per academic year
- Ranked among most affordable business colleges
- SHRM-approved HR curriculum
- Financial aid options available
- Fully online AACSB-accredited format
- Rolling admissions with 5 starts per year
- Asynchronous classes for schedule flexibility
- Accounting concentration for CPA preparation
- Ranked for affordability by multiple outlets
- Eight-week term structure
- AACSB-accredited with online delivery
- Data Analytics and HR Leadership tracks available
- Five eight-week terms per academic year
- Ranked among most affordable business colleges
- SHRM-approved HR curriculum
- Financial aid options available
- AACSB-accredited with online delivery
- Data Analytics and HR Leadership tracks available
- Five eight-week terms per academic year
- Ranked among most affordable business colleges
- SHRM-approved HR curriculum
- Financial aid options available
Business Administration, MBA, Supply Chain Management — On-Campus
Master of Business Administration, Data Analytics — Online
Online MBA in Accounting, Accounting — Online
Master of Business Administration, Human Resource Leadership — Online
Master of Business Administration, International Business — Hybrid
University of West Georgia
The University of West Georgia offers an AACSB-I accredited MBA that can be finished in as little as one year, with 30 credit hours delivered through evening courses at campuses in Carrollton, Newnan, and Douglasville. In-state tuition is approximately $6,046 and out-of-state about $19,600. The GMAT is optional, and students may mix campus locations each semester. Concentrations include Digital Marketing, and a dual MPAcc/MBA is available for those pursuing CPA eligibility.
- AACSB-I accredited; completable in one year
- 30 credit hours with Digital Marketing concentration
- GMAT not required for admission
- Evening courses across three campus locations
- Prior learning credit accepted to reduce costs
- Financial aid and scholarships available
- 45 graduate course hours total
- Prepares students for the CPA exam
- Face-to-face learning format
- Advanced data analytics coursework
- Combines accounting and management skills
- Transfer credits accepted
Master of Business Administration, Digital Marketing — On-Campus
Dual Degree MPAcc/MBA — On-Campus
Valdosta State University
Valdosta State University offers an AACSB-accredited MBA with a Healthcare Administration concentration delivered primarily online with synchronous and asynchronous options. The 30-credit program requires no entrance exam and no prerequisite courses, lowering barriers for career changers. In-state tuition is roughly $6,316 with out-of-state at about $18,934. Up to six transfer credits are accepted, and students have seven years to complete the degree.
- AACSB-accredited online MBA program
- 30 credit hours with no entrance exam required
- No prerequisite courses needed for admission
- Fall, spring, and summer start terms
- Up to 6 transfer credits accepted
- Seven-year maximum completion window
Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Administration, Healthcare Administration — Online
Georgia Southwestern State University
Georgia Southwestern State University's AACSB-accredited Executive MBA is a 12-month hybrid cohort program designed for mid- to upper-level professionals. With no GMAT or GRE required and in-state tuition starting at approximately $4,626, it ranks among the most affordable executive-level options in the state. The curriculum covers strategic management, global economics, leadership, and innovation across ten specialized courses with two entry points per year.
- AACSB-accredited 12-month hybrid program
- No GMAT or GRE required for admission
- Among the most affordable EMBAs in Georgia
- Two annual entry points available
- Ten specialized executive-level courses
- Focus on strategy, innovation, and leadership
Executive Master of Business Administration — Hybrid
Shorter University
Shorter University, a private Baptist-affiliated institution in Rome, Georgia, offers a fully online 33-credit MBA with a Healthcare Management concentration. The curriculum covers healthcare informatics, legal issues, and marketing alongside core business fundamentals. The university's overall graduation rate is approximately 37.7%, and tuition is a flat $17,000 regardless of residency, making costs predictable for out-of-state students.
- 33 credit hours with Healthcare Management focus
- Fully online delivery format
- Flat tuition regardless of residency status
- Courses in healthcare informatics and legal issues
- Prepares for hospital and clinic leadership roles
- Projected 22% job growth in healthcare management
Master of Business Administration, Healthcare Management — Online
Clark Atlanta University
Clark Atlanta University is a private HBCU in Atlanta offering MBA concentrations in Supply Chain Management, Accounting, and more. The campus-based program emphasizes quantitative analysis, professional ethics, and leadership in a global business environment. Tuition is approximately $22,474, and the university's overall graduation rate is 49%. Clark Atlanta's location within the Atlanta University Center Consortium provides unique networking opportunities across multiple historically Black institutions.
- HBCU with Supply Chain and Accounting concentrations
- Campus-based program in Atlanta
- Emphasis on quantitative and analytical skills
- Global business and ethics curriculum
- Prepares for CPA licensure via Accounting track
- Atlanta University Center Consortium networking
- HBCU with Supply Chain and Accounting concentrations
- Campus-based program in Atlanta
- Emphasis on quantitative and analytical skills
- Global business and ethics curriculum
- Prepares for CPA licensure via Accounting track
- Atlanta University Center Consortium networking
Master of Business Administration, Supply Chain Management — On-Campus
Master of Business Administration, Accounting — On-Campus
Columbus State University
Columbus State University offers a campus-based MBA with a Management Information Systems concentration that combines global business strategy, human behavior, and technology management. Partnerships with regional businesses provide hands-on management experience. In-state tuition is roughly $5,898, making it a budget-friendly option for professionals in the Columbus, Georgia, area.
- Management Information Systems concentration
- Campus-based program in Columbus, GA
- Partnerships with regional businesses
- Focus on leadership and ethical decision-making
- Real-world problem-solving curriculum
- Affordable public university tuition
Master of Business Administration, Management Information Systems — On-Campus
Brenau University
Brenau University, a private institution in Gainesville, provides a fully online MBA with nine concentration options including Business Analytics, Healthcare Management, and Human Resource Management. Its Executive MBA for Women offers a 16-month hybrid format with three on-campus intensives. The 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures personal attention, and tuition is roughly $845 per credit hour for most tracks. Brenau's university-wide graduation rate is approximately 32.9%.
- Fully online with Business Analytics concentration
- 1.5-year completion timeline
- ACBSP-accredited program
- Small class sizes with personal faculty attention
- $845 per credit hour tuition
- Nine total concentration options
- 39 credit hours; 13 courses total
- Online or hybrid delivery format
- Seven-week accelerated course sessions
- Approximately $21,000 total program cost
- Military-discounted tuition available
- Designed for clinical professionals
- Fully online with Business Analytics concentration
- 1.5-year completion timeline
- ACBSP-accredited program
- Small class sizes with personal faculty attention
- $845 per credit hour tuition
- Nine total concentration options
- 16-month hybrid program with three intensives
- Women-only cohorts for focused networking
- Executive coaching partnerships included
- Global perspective and innovation intensives
- Applied learning with capstone project
- Industry-experienced faculty
Master of Business Administration (MBA), Business Analytics — Online
MBA in Healthcare Management — Online
MBA in Human Resource Management — Hybrid
International Business — Online
Master of Business Administration, Management — Hybrid
Executive MBA for Women — Hybrid
Albany State University
Albany State University is a public HBCU offering an ACBSP-accredited MBA with four concentrations, including Supply Chain and Logistics Management and Healthcare Administration. The program can be completed in one year, with online tuition totaling roughly $9,870 for 30 credit hours. Graduate assistantships with stipends are available, and no entrance exam is required under most admission pathways.
- ACBSP accredited with 4 concentration options
- Completable in one year online or on campus
- Online tuition approximately $9,870 total
- Graduate assistantships with $4,000 stipends
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification included
- Test optional for most admission categories
- ACBSP accredited with 4 concentration options
- Completable in one year online or on campus
- Online tuition approximately $9,870 total
- Graduate assistantships with $4,000 stipends
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification included
- Test optional for most admission categories
- ACBSP accredited with 4 concentration options
- Completable in one year online or on campus
- Online tuition approximately $9,870 total
- Graduate assistantships with $4,000 stipends
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification included
- Test optional for most admission categories
- ACBSP accredited with 4 concentration options
- Completable in one year online or on campus
- Online tuition approximately $9,870 total
- Graduate assistantships with $4,000 stipends
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification included
- Test optional for most admission categories
- Hybrid learning with fast-track completion
- 30 semester hours of coursework
- ACBSP and SACS accredited
- Prior learning assessments available
- Provisional admission options for lower GPAs
- Core courses in leadership and strategy
Master of Business Administration, Supply Chain and Logistics Management — Online
Master of Business Administration (MBA), Accounting — On-Campus
Master of Business Administration, Healthcare Administration — Hybrid
Master of Business Administration, General — Hybrid
MBA (Executive) — Hybrid
American InterContinental University-Atlanta
American InterContinental University's Atlanta campus offers an online MBA with a Human Resource Management specialization aligned to SHRM standards. The 48-credit, ACBSP-accredited program covers HR strategy, employment law, and international management, making it accessible for professionals who need maximum scheduling flexibility. The university's overall graduation rate is approximately 20.8%.
- 48-credit ACBSP-accredited MBA program
- Human Resource Management specialization
- SHRM-aligned curriculum
- Online and Atlanta campus delivery options
- Covers employment law and global management
- Capstone business research project required
Business Administration M.B.A., Human Resource Management — Online
DeVry University-Georgia
DeVry University's Keller School of Management, with a Georgia campus in Decatur, offers a fully online MBA with a Human Resources specialization. No GMAT or GRE is required, and courses start every eight weeks, allowing completion in as few as 12 months with prior credits. The ACBSP-accredited program aligns with SHRM guidelines and covers workforce planning, talent management, and organizational change.
- No GMAT or GRE required for admission
- Completable in as few as 10 courses
- New class starts every 8 weeks
- ACBSP-accredited, SHRM-aligned curriculum
- Graduate certificate earned en route to MBA
- Prior learning credit and course waivers accepted
Master of Business Administration, Human Resources — Online
Atlanta MBA Tuition, Salary & ROI Comparison
The table below compares annual tuition, institution-level median earnings, median graduate debt, and ROI ratio for MBA programs across Georgia. Tuition figures reflect published in-state and out-of-state rates for each program. Note that program-level earnings and debt data are not yet available for these MBA programs specifically, so the earnings and debt columns reflect institution-wide medians from the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard, reported ten years after enrollment. Use these figures as directional benchmarks rather than MBA-specific guarantees.
| School | In-State Tuition (Annual) | Out-of-State Tuition (Annual) | Median Earnings (10-Year, Institution-Wide) | Median Graduate Debt | ROI Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia Institute of Technology (Scheller) | $15,962 | $32,144 | $102,772 | $21,672 | 4.74 |
| Emory University (Goizueta) | $48,750 | $48,750 | $80,137 | $18,250 | 4.39 |
| University of Georgia (Terry) | $11,002 | $29,774 | $68,726 | $18,500 | 3.71 |
| Georgia Southwestern State University | $4,626 | $15,534 | $48,757 | $18,851 | 2.59 |
| Kennesaw State University (Coles) | $6,702 | $21,390 | $57,552 | $23,833 | 2.41 |
| Mercer University (Stetson) | $14,971 | $14,971 | $58,354 | $24,199 | 2.41 |
| Augusta University | $6,992 | $21,060 | $48,472 | $20,500 | 2.36 |
| Berry College | $13,646 | $13,646 | $53,800 | $23,250 | 2.31 |
| Georgia State University (Robinson) | $8,664 | $25,116 | $47,384 | $20,903 | 2.27 |
| University of West Georgia | $6,046 | $19,600 | $49,587 | $23,970 | 2.07 |
| Brenau University | $15,840 | $15,840 | $54,003 | $27,000 | 2.00 |
| Valdosta State University | $6,316 | $18,934 | $49,361 | $24,779 | 1.99 |
| Clayton State University | $6,493 | $12,779 | $49,179 | $25,706 | 1.91 |
| Clark Atlanta University | $22,474 | $22,474 | $42,712 | $27,000 | 1.58 |
Questions to Ask Yourself
Program Spotlights: Emory Goizueta, Georgia Tech Scheller & More
Atlanta's MBA landscape spans elite private institutions and high-value public universities, each with distinct strengths. Below are mini-profiles of the five programs most worth your attention.
Emory University, Goizueta Business School
The Emory Goizueta MBA ranking consistently places it among the top 25 MBA programs nationally, and its AACSB-accredited Two-Year MBA remains the flagship offering in the Atlanta market.12 With more than 20 concentration options3, including a standout Consulting & Strategy track that placed 49% of a recent graduating class into consulting roles4, Goizueta offers depth that few regional competitors can match. The program carries a STEM designation, which grants international graduates eligibility for a 24-month OPT extension on top of the standard 12-month period.5 Emory's institution-level acceptance rate sits near 11%, underscoring the caliber of the broader university community. Dedicated international student support services, combined with Atlanta's concentration of Fortune 500 employers, make Goizueta one of the best MBA programs in Atlanta for international students seeking long-term U.S. career placement.
Georgia Institute of Technology, Scheller College of Business
The Georgia Tech Scheller MBA leverages the university's engineering and innovation DNA to produce graduates who thrive at the intersection of technology and business. Scheller's STEM-designated MBA tracks are a major draw for international candidates because they unlock up to three years of U.S. work authorization through OPT and STEM OPT. The college offers both full-time and part-time formats, and its Global Business executive track features two international residencies and a cohort-based structure tailored for professionals with 10 to 15 years of experience. In-state tuition of roughly $15,962 per year versus $32,144 for out-of-state students makes it a strong value proposition among AACSB-accredited programs, especially for Georgia residents. For a deeper look at how these two flagships stack up, see our emory vs georgia tech mba comparison.
Georgia State University, J. Mack Robinson College of Business
Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, Robinson offers an AACSB-accredited MBA with 16 concentration options, from Finance to embedded graduate certificates in areas like Innovation. Robinson is one of the most affordable options on this list: in-state tuition runs approximately $8,664 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $25,116. That gap makes Robinson especially attractive for working professionals already living in Georgia. The Innovation Studio provides experiential learning opportunities, and the school's proximity to major corporate headquarters gives students convenient access to networking events and employer partnerships. Dual-degree options add further flexibility for candidates who want to layer specialized credentials onto a core MBA.
Kennesaw State University, Michael J. Coles College of Business
Kennesaw State's Coles College delivers another public-university value play, with in-state MBA tuition near $6,702 per year compared to roughly $21,390 for out-of-state students. The AACSB-accredited program recently expanded to include concentrations in Information Security and Assurance, Digital Marketing, and Entrepreneurship, reflecting demand for tech-oriented business skills in the metro area. The Evening MBA format is designed for working professionals and can be completed in as few as 18 months in an accelerated track. While Coles does not carry the same national brand recognition as Goizueta or Scheller, its affordability and practical curriculum make it a smart choice for professionals who want to advance without taking on significant debt.
Mercer University, Stetson-Hatcher School of Business
Mercer's Stetson-Hatcher School of Business holds AACSB International accreditation, placing it in the top 5% of business schools worldwide by that measure. The MBA offers six concentration options, including Healthcare Management and Analytics, and can be completed in online, evening, or full-time formats across 36 credit hours. Tuition is approximately $14,971 regardless of residency status, which simplifies cost planning for students relocating to the Atlanta area. Mercer also maintains a campus presence in Atlanta's Cecil B. Day Graduate and Professional Center, giving students direct access to the city's professional ecosystem. Personalized career development support and combined degree options round out a program that balances flexibility with academic rigor.
For candidates evaluating the best MBA programs in Atlanta for international students specifically, Emory Goizueta and Georgia Tech Scheller stand out for their STEM designations and dedicated support infrastructure. Meanwhile, Robinson and Coles offer compelling affordability for domestic students who want to minimize their total investment while still earning an AACSB-accredited degree in one of the Southeast's most dynamic job markets. You can explore all mba programs in georgia for additional options beyond the Atlanta metro.
Related Articles
Full-Time vs. Part-Time vs. Online MBA Options in Atlanta
Choosing the right MBA format is just as important as choosing the right school. Atlanta programs span all three major delivery modes, and each one serves a different type of candidate. Full-time programs are built for career switchers who can dedicate two years to immersive study, part-time programs let working professionals earn the degree without leaving their jobs, and online programs offer maximum geographic and scheduling flexibility for remote or distance learners. Here is how the three formats compare across the dimensions that matter most.
| Dimension | Full-Time MBA | Part-Time MBA | Online MBA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Time to Complete | 12 to 24 months | 24 to 48 months | 18 to 36 months |
| Delivery Mode | In-person, weekday classes | In-person, evening or weekend classes | Fully online (synchronous, asynchronous, or both) |
| Networking Intensity | High: daily cohort interaction, on-campus recruiting events, club leadership | Moderate: evening cohort bonds plus access to campus events on a limited schedule | Lower: virtual networking and optional residencies; fewer spontaneous peer connections |
| Best Fit Candidate | Career switchers, early-career professionals seeking a full reset | Working professionals advancing within their current industry or employer | Remote workers, military members, or professionals unable to relocate to Atlanta |
| Employer Perception | Widely regarded as the gold standard; strongest signal for consulting and finance recruiting | Viewed favorably, especially when earned at an AACSB-accredited school; same degree conferred | Acceptance has grown significantly; GMAC surveys show most employers now view AACSB-accredited online MBAs comparably to in-person degrees |
| Schedule Flexibility | Low: requires full-time commitment with limited capacity for outside employment | High: classes scheduled around a 9-to-5 workday | Highest: coursework can often be completed from anywhere, on your own timetable |
| Atlanta Schools Offering This Format | Emory Goizueta (campus), Clark Atlanta University (campus), University of West Georgia (campus) | Georgia State Robinson (hybrid), Georgia Tech Scheller (hybrid), Mercer Stetson (hybrid, evening, or full-time options) | Kennesaw State Coles (online), Valdosta State (online), Brenau University (online) |
| Approximate Annual Tuition Range (Georgia Residents) | $8,600 to $48,750 depending on institution | $4,600 to $32,100 depending on institution and pace | $5,000 to $17,000 depending on institution |
| Access to Atlanta Employers | Strongest: structured internship pipelines with Fortune 500 firms like Coca-Cola, Delta, and Home Depot | Strong: many students already work at Atlanta employers and leverage alumni networks on campus | Variable: students must be proactive about attending virtual career fairs and optional on-site events |
Why Atlanta for an MBA? Fortune 500 Access & Industry Growth
Atlanta is not just a regional powerhouse. It is one of the most strategically valuable cities in the country for MBA graduates looking to launch or accelerate their careers. With a metro population of roughly 6.1 million and over 150,000 businesses operating in the area, the city offers a density of corporate opportunity that rivals any major MBA hub, often at a significantly lower personal cost.1
A Fortune 500 Epicenter
Atlanta ranks among the top four U.S. cities for Fortune 500 headquarters, with roughly 13 to 16 Fortune 500 companies calling the metro area home.2 Expand that to the Fortune 1000 and the count climbs to approximately 35 to 37 firms, collectively generating north of $470 billion in annual revenue.2 The headliners are names every MBA candidate recognizes:
- The Home Depot: The world's largest home-improvement retailer, with over $157 billion in revenue.1
- UPS: A global logistics giant generating roughly $103 billion annually.1
- Delta Air Lines: One of the world's most profitable carriers, with nearly $56 billion in revenue.1
- The Coca-Cola Company: An iconic consumer brand with $46 billion in revenue and deep ties to Emory's Goizueta Business School.1
- Southern Company: A major energy utility with approximately $24 billion in revenue.1
For MBA students, this concentration translates directly into internship pipelines, on-campus recruiting events, and post-graduation job offers. Many of these companies actively recruit from local programs, giving Atlanta MBA graduates a placement advantage without requiring a cross-country move.
A Growing Fintech Corridor
Beyond legacy Fortune 500 firms, Atlanta has emerged as a national fintech hub. Global Payments (ranked 410 on the Fortune 500), Intercontinental Exchange, Equifax, and the successors to NCR all maintain significant operations in the metro area.1 Corpay, another payments technology firm, adds further depth to this ecosystem. The Georgia Fintech Academy, a statewide initiative connecting universities and industry, provides MBA students with direct exposure to this fast-growing sector through coursework, networking, and employer partnerships. For candidates interested in payments technology, financial data, or startup ecosystems, Atlanta offers a pipeline that few other MBA cities can match.
Cost-of-Living Advantage
One factor that often goes underappreciated is how far your post-MBA salary stretches in Atlanta compared to New York, San Francisco, or best mba programs in boston. Housing, transportation, and day-to-day expenses are meaningfully lower, which means your real return on an MBA investment can be substantially higher even if the nominal starting salary is comparable. This is a critical consideration for candidates evaluating total ROI rather than headline compensation alone. Georgia consistently ranks among the best states for MBA graduates for this reason.
The Hartsfield-Jackson Factor
Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport consistently ranks as the world's busiest airport by passenger volume. For MBA graduates pursuing careers in consulting, corporate development, or any travel-intensive role, this is a genuine quality-of-life and productivity asset. Those considering a management consultant mba career path will find Atlanta an ideal home base, with direct flights to virtually every major U.S. city and dozens of international destinations.
Strong Local Placement Without Relocation Pressure
The common concern with programs outside the traditional Northeast or West Coast corridors is whether graduates need to relocate to find top-tier opportunities. Atlanta largely sidesteps this problem. The sheer employer density in the metro area, spanning consumer goods, logistics, energy, healthcare, technology, and financial services, means local MBA programs consistently report strong placement rates within the region. Graduates from Emory Goizueta, Georgia Tech Scheller, Georgia State Robinson, and other area programs frequently land roles with Atlanta-headquartered employers, building careers in a city where professional networks run deep and opportunity continues to expand.
Which Atlanta MBA Has the Highest Salary Outcomes?
Program-level post-MBA earnings for Atlanta schools are not yet available in the current dataset, so a direct side-by-side comparison cannot be published at this time. However, national salary surveys consistently show that private, full-time programs like Emory Goizueta tend to report the highest median starting salaries among Atlanta MBAs, while public institutions such as Georgia State Robinson and Kennesaw State Coles offer strong returns relative to their lower tuition. The gap between the highest and lowest median outcomes in the metro area can exceed $40,000, driven largely by program format (full-time vs. part-time), employer recruiting pipelines, and whether graduates enter consulting and finance or operations and technology roles.
Admissions Requirements & GMAT Waiver Policies
Atlanta MBA programs vary considerably in their admissions expectations, from highly selective to broadly accessible. Understanding each school's requirements, especially around standardized testing, can save you months of preparation time and help you target the right program.
Typical Admissions Benchmarks
Most Atlanta MBA programs share a common set of application components: undergraduate transcripts, a resume, essays or a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a standardized test score (GMAT or GRE). For a broader look at what schools expect, see our guide to mba application requirements. Beyond those basics, here is what you can generally expect across the five core programs:
- GMAT/GRE scores: Top-tier programs like Emory Goizueta and Georgia Tech Scheller typically see median GMAT scores in the high 600s to low 700s. Georgia State Robinson and Kennesaw State Coles accept a wider range, and some formats at those schools are test-optional.
- GPA expectations: Minimum GPAs range from 2.7 at Georgia Tech Scheller's executive programs and Kennesaw State to 3.0 or higher at more selective programs. A strong upward trend in your transcript can offset a lower cumulative number.
- Work experience: Full-time MBA cohorts at Goizueta and Scheller average roughly four to six years of professional experience. Executive and evening formats, such as Scheller's Global Business MBA, often expect 10 to 15 years.
- Application components: Essays, interviews (by invitation at Goizueta), and professional recommendations are standard. Some schools also require a video component or portfolio.
Do Atlanta MBA Programs Offer GMAT Waivers?
Yes, and the trend is expanding. Here is a school-by-school breakdown:
- Emory Goizueta: Offers both GMAT and GRE waivers for its Two-Year MBA.1 Applicants must submit a separate Test Waiver Application by September 15, 2025, ahead of the October 1 application deadline.2 Waiver decisions are returned within 10 to 14 business days.2 Eligibility criteria are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, so candidates with strong professional credentials, advanced degrees, or relevant certifications should apply early.
- Georgia Tech Scheller: Waiver policies depend on the specific MBA format. The Executive and Global Business MBAs require the GMAT, though candidates with significant professional experience may petition for consideration.
- Georgia State Robinson: Has offered test-optional pathways for its Flexible MBA, particularly for applicants with substantial work history or a prior graduate degree.
- Kennesaw State Coles: The Evening MBA does not require a GMAT for applicants meeting GPA and experience thresholds, making it one of the most accessible options in the metro area.
- Mercer Stetson: Offers online, evening, and full-time formats with flexible admissions. The school evaluates waiver requests and considers professional certifications and prior graduate coursework.
Because waiver policies update each admissions cycle, always confirm directly with your target school's admissions office before assuming you qualify.
Emory University Selectivity
Emory University's institution-level acceptance rate sits at roughly 11%, making it one of the most selective universities in the Southeast. Keep in mind that this figure reflects undergraduate and overall university admissions, not the Emory Goizueta MBA acceptance rate specifically. Program-level acceptance rates for the business school may differ and are not always publicly reported. That said, the university's overall selectivity signals a highly competitive applicant pool, so strong GMAT scores, clear career goals, and differentiated essays carry real weight.
International Applicant Requirements
International candidates face a few additional steps at most Atlanta MBA programs:
- English proficiency: Emory Goizueta accepts TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, and Duolingo English Test scores.3 Other programs generally accept TOEFL and IELTS at a minimum. Goizueta waives the English proficiency requirement for applicants who completed at least three years of undergraduate study in the United States or who hold a U.S. graduate degree combined with at least one year of U.S. work experience.3
- Transcript evaluation: Most schools require a credential evaluation from WES or a similar agency for degrees earned outside the United States.
- Visa sponsorship: Full-time MBA programs at Goizueta, Scheller, and Robinson support F-1 student visa sponsorship. Part-time and evening formats may have different eligibility rules, so international applicants should verify visa compatibility before applying.
International students exploring funding options may also want to review available mba scholarships for international students. Planning early, particularly around test waivers and English proficiency documentation, gives you the best chance of a smooth admissions cycle.
According to the 2024 GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey, companies planned to offer MBA graduates a median starting salary of $115,000, and the Graduate Management Admission Council estimates that MBA holders earn roughly $2.5 million more over a lifetime compared to those with only a bachelor's degree.
Frequently Asked Questions About Atlanta MBA Programs
Choosing the right MBA program in the Atlanta metro area means weighing salary outcomes, admissions selectivity, format flexibility, and return on investment. Below we answer the questions prospective students ask most often, drawing on the data and program details covered throughout this guide.
