The Best MBA Schools in Rhode Island – Online, Fast, and Affordable Programs
Rhode Island’s economy is powered by industries such as healthcare, financial services, tourism, and advanced manufacturing, creating strong demand for business professionals. Major employers like CVS Health, Hasbro, and Textron actively seek MBA graduates for leadership roles. An online MBA in Rhode Island equips professionals with the expertise to excel in these competitive sectors.
The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training reports that the state is experiencing job growth in healthcare administration, finance, and technology, making a Master of Business Administration from an accredited business school a worthwhile investment for those looking to advance their careers. Business hubs in Providence and Newport offer professionals networking opportunities and access to jobs in these high-growth industries.
Online MBA programs in Rhode Island provide flexibility, allowing students to specialize in fields such as MBA in Healthcare Management, Finance, and Innovation Management while continuing to work full-time.

Table of Contents
Rhode Island MBA Schools, Programs and Tuition Snapshot
Metric | Details |
---|---|
Total Programs | 3 |
Average Tuition Range | $40,000 – $60,000 |
Online Availability | 1 fully online option |
Most Popular Specialties | Strategic Innovation, Healthcare Administration, Finance |
Top-Ranked School | University of Rhode Island (College of Business) |
Projected Job Growth | Positive |
Disclaimer: The information provided in this table is for general guidance only and is based on publicly available data and projections. Tuition costs, program availability, and job growth rates can change over time. We encourage prospective students to conduct their own research, verify details directly with universities, and consult official sources before making any educational or career decisions.
2025 – Best Online Master of Business Administration Degree Programs in Rhode Island
An online MBA from a Rhode Island university equips students with leadership, analytical, and strategic decision-making skills. These programs offer flexible learning formats and career-driven curricula for professionals seeking upward mobility in the business world.
Rhode Island universities emphasize faculty mentorship, networking opportunities, and career support services. Students can find programs that match their career goals, whether they are pursuing a general MBA or a specialized track in finance, healthcare, or innovation management.
To choose the best online MBA program, it is essential to consider accreditation, faculty qualifications, and partnerships with the industry. Rhode Island’s universities offer highly respected programs to prepare graduates for leadership roles across multiple sectors.

Learn more about our methodology
Johnson & Wales University-Online
Providence, RI - Private 4-year - online.jwu.edu
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Operations and Supply Chain Management - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson & Wales University-Online's MBA in Operations and Supply Chain Management is a hybrid program designed for professionals aiming to master logistics and supply chain optimization. It emphasizes Lean principles and strategic decision-making, preparing graduates for high-demand roles. The program is military-friendly and does not require a GMAT for admission. Key highlights include a hybrid delivery model, industry partnerships, and a 90% alumni career placement rate.
- Hybrid program delivery
- Concentration in Supply Chain Management
- Industry expert partnerships
- Strategic problem-solving focus
- 90% alumni career placement
- Online concentration courses
- Global business perspectives
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Sport Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The MBA in Sport Leadership at Johnson & Wales University-Online is a hybrid program tailored for the sports industry, focusing on leadership and management. It combines online and in-person learning, with no GMAT required. Highlights include a global sports industry focus, real-world projects, and faculty with industry expertise, making it ideal for those seeking careers in sports leadership.
- Hybrid learning model
- Global sports industry focus
- Real-world project experience
- Industry expert faculty
- Leadership skill development
- Contemporary sport management
- Strategic business acumen
Master's - MBA - Accounting Concentration
Concentration: Accounting - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson & Wales University-Online offers an MBA with an Accounting Concentration in a hybrid format, blending theoretical knowledge with practical application. This program is designed for professionals seeking leadership roles in financial management, covering advanced accounting principles and strategic business leadership. It is military-friendly and does not specify a GMAT requirement. Highlights include a focus on ethical financial practices and a global business perspective.
- Hybrid program delivery
- 36-60 total credit hours
- Advanced accounting principles
- Strategic business leadership focus
- Global business perspective
Master's - Master of Business Administration – Finance
Online Learning - Visit Website
The online MBA in Finance at Johnson & Wales University-Online is a flexible two-year program for professionals aiming to advance in financial leadership. No GMAT is required for students with a 2.85 GPA, offering conditional acceptance. The curriculum includes financial theories and investment strategies, with highlights such as accelerated courses, competitive tuition, and industry leader faculty.
- Two-year flexible online program
- No GMAT for 2.85+ GPA
- 8-week accelerated courses
- Competitive tuition rates
- Industry leader faculty
- Strategic financial planning focus
- Learn investment management
- Conditional acceptance available
- Customizable degree path
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Human Resource Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
Johnson & Wales University-Online's MBA in Human Resource Management is an online program designed for professionals seeking leadership roles in HR. It offers a flexible schedule with no GMAT required for qualified candidates. Highlights include an accelerated course format, strategic HR management focus, and training in ethical decision-making and global business interactions.
- Two-year online MBA program
- No GMAT for 2.85+ GPA
- 8-week course format
- Industry leader faculty
- Competitive tuition rates
- Strategic HR management focus
- Flexible learning schedule
- Advanced communication skills
- Global business perspective
- Ethical decision-making training
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Organizational Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The hybrid MBA with an Organizational Leadership concentration at Johnson & Wales University-Online prepares professionals to drive organizational change. It focuses on emotional intelligence and strategic skills, with no GMAT specified. Highlights include an action learning approach, career growth potential, and an average alumni salary of $97,872, making it ideal for those aiming for management careers.
- Hybrid program delivery model
- Professionally-focused curriculum
- Emotionally intelligent leadership focus
- Action learning approach
- Career growth potential
- Average alumni salary $97,872
- 78% work in related fields
- Management careers trending upward
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Marketing - Online Learning - Visit Website
Johnson & Wales University-Online's online MBA with a Marketing concentration offers expertise in digital and traditional marketing strategies. The program focuses on brand management and analytics, with no GMAT mentioned. Highlights include industry-experienced faculty, omnichannel marketing strategies, and advanced marketing analytics training, preparing graduates for modern business environments.
- Online MBA Marketing Concentration
- Digital and Traditional Marketing Focus
- Expert Faculty with Industry Experience
- Strategic Marketing Course Offerings
- Advanced Marketing Analytics Training
- Omnichannel Marketing Strategies
- Stakeholder Management Skills
- Brand Positioning Techniques
- Digital Marketing Curriculum
Master's - MBA – Hospitality
Concentration: Hospitality Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
The online MBA with a Hospitality Management concentration at Johnson & Wales University-Online is designed for professionals in the hospitality industry. It covers operations management and strategic marketing, with flexible online or on-campus options. No GMAT is specified. Highlights include competitive tuition, industry-experienced instructors, and a focus on ethical decision-making and cultural awareness, ideal for global hospitality leadership roles.
- 2-year program duration
- Online and on-campus options
- Concentration in Hospitality Management
- Competitive tuition rates
- Industry-experienced instructors
- Real-world scenario applications
- 7- or 16-week courses
- Generous transfer credit policy
- Focus on global hospitality industry
- Ethical decision-making curriculum
Johnson & Wales University-Providence
Providence, RI - Private 4-year - jwu.edu
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Operations and Supply Chain Management - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson & Wales University-Providence's MBA in Operations and Supply Chain Management is a hybrid program designed for aspiring business leaders. It focuses on logistics, strategic decision-making, and global business practices, preparing students for high-impact roles in various industries. The program highlights include a supply chain concentration, partial online course delivery, and a strong emphasis on strategic problem-solving and lean principles. No entrance exam is required for this program.
- MBA with Supply Chain Concentration
- Courses delivered partially online
- Industry expert partnership
- 90% alumni career relevance
- Strategic problem-solving focus
- Global business perspective
- Lean principles integration
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Sport Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The MBA in Sport Leadership at Johnson & Wales University-Providence is tailored for professionals aiming for careers in the sports industry. This hybrid program offers a blend of online and in-person learning, focusing on leadership strategies and global sports market insights. It prepares graduates for leadership roles in the rapidly evolving sports business landscape. No entrance exam is required.
- Hybrid learning model
- Sport leadership concentration
- Industry-collaborative curriculum
- Professionally focused projects
- Global sports industry expertise
- Faculty with industry experience
- Real-world business challenges
- Contemporary leadership focus
- Strategic organizational development
- Sports market growth insights
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Data Analytics - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson & Wales University-Providence offers a STEM-designated MBA in Data Analytics, combining technical expertise with management skills. This hybrid program focuses on statistical analysis, visualization, and predictive modeling, preparing students for data-driven decision-making roles. The curriculum emphasizes executive leadership and strategic problem-solving. No entrance exam is required.
- STEM-designated graduate program
- 36-42 total credit hours
- Focuses on data analysis skills
- Develops executive leadership competencies
- Advanced communication skill development
- Strategic problem-solving emphasis
- Global business perspective
- Courses include data visualization
- Big data analytics training
- Research methods included
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Finance - Online Learning - Visit Website
The online MBA with a Finance concentration at Johnson & Wales University-Providence is designed for professionals seeking advancement in financial roles. The program covers financial strategy, estate planning, and strategic financial planning, with courses tailored to industry demands. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for working professionals.
- MBA with Finance Concentration
- Designed for Working Professionals
- Industry Collaboration
- Covers Financial Strategy Topics
- Career Growth Potential
- US Bureau of Labor Statistics Predicts 12% Industry Growth
- Sample Courses Include Financial Management
- Courses Cover Estate Planning
- Strategic Financial Planning Focus
- Top Employers Include Bank of America
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Human Resource Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
Johnson & Wales University-Providence's online MBA in Human Resource Management prepares students for strategic HR roles. The program focuses on personnel management, talent acquisition, and organizational strategy, with real-world projects enhancing learning. It's designed for working professionals, with no entrance exam required.
- MBA with HR Management Concentration
- Designed for Working Professionals
- Real-world Project Experience
- Bureau of Labor Stats 6% Growth
- Expert Industry Faculty
- Strategic HR Management Focus
- 76% Alumni Work in Field
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Organizational Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The hybrid MBA in Organizational Leadership at Johnson & Wales University-Providence develops leadership and strategic capabilities. The program focuses on emotional intelligence, organizational effectiveness, and innovative management techniques. It's ideal for professionals aiming to lead high-performing teams. No entrance exam is required.
- MBA with Organizational Leadership concentration
- Online concentration courses
- Courses include leadership strategies
- Professionally-focused curriculum
- Estimated alumni salary $97,872
- 78% work in related field
- Campus-based foundation courses
- Management careers trending upward
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Marketing - Online Learning - Visit Website
Johnson & Wales University-Providence offers an online MBA with a Marketing Concentration, focusing on digital analytics, brand positioning, and customer-centric strategies. The program is designed for professionals looking to enhance their marketing leadership skills. No entrance exam is required.
- Marketing Concentration MBA
- Digital and Traditional Marketing
- Strategic Brand Management
- Marketing Analytics Focus
- Experienced Faculty Instruction
- Interactive Customer Experience
- Omnichannel Marketing Strategies
- Growth Strategy Development
- Digital Marketing Channels
- Brand Positioning Expertise
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Online Learning - Visit Website
The flexible online MBA program at Johnson & Wales University-Providence is tailored for working professionals. It emphasizes real-world projects and comprehensive business skills development, with opportunities for specialization. No entrance exam is required, offering accessibility for career advancement.
- Flexible MBA program
- Available in Providence/Online
- One-year accelerated option
- Real-world project focus
- Industry expert faculty
- Median salary $88,300
- Electives in marketing, finance
- 15.4% projected job growth
- Academic advisor support
- Career services available
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Hospitality - Online Learning - Visit Website
Johnson & Wales University-Providence's online MBA in Hospitality prepares students for executive roles in the hospitality industry. The program focuses on operations management, strategic marketing, and leadership, with flexible options for full-time and part-time students. Alumni may receive a tuition discount. No entrance exam is required.
- 36-42 credits required
- Flexible full/part-time options
- Hybrid online and in-person
- Focus on hospitality industry
- 25% tuition discount for alumni
- Courses in strategic marketing
- Leadership and operations focus
- Prepares for executive roles
- Small class sizes
- Expert faculty with industry experience
Salve Regina University
Newport, RI - Private 4-year - salve.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Entrepreneurial Enterprise - Online Learning - Visit Website
Salve Regina University offers an online Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Entrepreneurial Enterprise, designed for future business innovators. This 36-credit program blends a core curriculum with electives, emphasizing creative thinking and strategic planning for entrepreneurship. Accredited by IACBE, it features flexible asynchronous learning with optional synchronous components, ideal for working professionals. While no entrance exam is specified, prerequisite business knowledge is recommended. Rooted in the university's Roman Catholic Mercy Mission, it's also military-friendly, offering a unique humanistic approach to business leadership.
- Fully online MBA program
- IACBE accredited
- 36 total credit hours
- 12 total courses required
- Entrepreneurship concentration available
- Flexible asynchronous learning
- Core curriculum of 10 courses
- Two elective courses
- Synchronous engagement components
- Prerequisite business knowledge recommended
Brown University
Providence, RI - Private 4-year - brown.edu
Master's - IE Brown Executive MBA
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Brown University's IE Brown Executive MBA is a prestigious 15-month hybrid program that merges Ivy League academic rigor with a global business perspective. Tailored for seasoned professionals with a minimum of 10 years' experience, this program emphasizes leadership with a societal impact. It uniquely combines online learning with immersive residential sessions in Madrid, Providence, and Cape Town, offering a blend of flexibility and intensive study. Admission is competitive, targeting individuals poised to drive meaningful change. The program stands out for its focus on international business, leadership development, and a commitment to positive societal contributions, with financial aid options to support eligible candidates.
- 15-month duration.
- Hybrid online and residential.
- 10+ years experience required.
- Global sessions in three cities.
- Focus on societal impact.
- Ivy League and global partnership.
- Financial aid available.
- Leadership development focus.
- Blended learning format.
- International business perspective.
What Are the Fastest MBA Programs in Rhode Island?
Accelerated MBA programs in Rhode Island allow professionals to complete their degrees in as little as a year, providing an expedited path to career growth.
Benefits of Accelerated MBA Programs:
- Earn an MBA in 12-18 months
- Reduce tuition costs and time away from work
- Quickly gain leadership skills for business advancement
Shortest Online MBA Programs in Rhode Island:
School Name | MBA Program Specialty | Program Length | Format |
---|---|---|---|
University of Rhode Island | Business Analytics | 12 months | Online |
Bryant University | Finance | 14 months | Online |
Johnson & Wales University | General MBA | 16 months | Online |
To explore additional options, visit Fastest MBA Programs.
What Are the Cheapest MBA Programs in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island offers cost-effective MBA programs that provide a strong return on investment without compromising quality.
Benefits of Budget-Friendly MBA Programs
- Lower tuition rates compared to national averages
- Competitive ROI for long-term career growth
- Access to top-tier faculty and networking opportunities
Most Affordable Online MBA Programs in Rhode Island:
School Name | MBA Program Specialty | Tuition Range | Format |
---|---|---|---|
University of Rhode Island | General MBA | $10,500 – $14,000 | Online |
Bryant University | Finance | $12,500 – $16,500 | Online |
Johnson & Wales University | Healthcare Management | $13,500 – $17,500 | Online |
To explore additional options, visit Cheapest MBA Programs.
Are There Online MBA Program Options in Rhode Island?
Working professionals in Rhode Island can find online MBA programs that offer flexibility to balance their careers with furthering their education.
Pros and Cons of Online MBA Programs:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Flexible learning schedules | Limited face-to-face networking |
Continue working while studying | Requires strong self-discipline |
Often more affordable than on-campus | Some employers prefer traditional MBAs |
Access to national and global networks | Fewer on-campus career services |
What Are the Admissions Requirements for MBA Programs in Rhode Island?
Admissions requirements vary by program, but most universities evaluate applicants based on academic background, work experience, and leadership potential.
Pros and Cons of MBA Admissions Requirements:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Bachelor’s degree required | Some applicants may need prerequisite coursework |
GMAT/GRE waivers available | Some programs still require standardized tests |
Work experience preferred | Competitive programs may have limited seats |
Career support available | Application fees may be costly |
Common Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Scores from the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) Work experience (preferred but not always required)
- Personal statement outlining career goals
- Letters of recommendation from academic or professional references
- Application deadlines vary by institution
Popular MBA Specialties in Rhode Island
Rhode Island’s business landscape supports the demand for specialized MBA programs tailored to industry needs.
In-demand MBA concentrations in Rhode Island:
- MBA in Healthcare Management – Prepares graduates for leadership roles in the state’s large healthcare industry.
- MBA in Finance – Equips professionals with investment and banking expertise for the financial services sector.
- MBA in Innovation Management – Helps professionals drive business growth and product development.
- MBA in Hospitality and Tourism Management – Supports careers in Rhode Island’s robust tourism and hospitality industry.
- MBA in Supply Chain Management – Focuses on logistics, procurement, and operations management.
Your Next Step Toward an MBA in Rhode Island
An MBA in Rhode Island can accelerate your career, enhance earning potential, and provide critical leadership skills. Whether you’re looking to transition into a new industry, start your own business, or move into executive leadership, Rhode Island’s top online MBA programs offer the flexibility and expertise necessary for success.
Start researching programs, preparing applications, and exploring financial aid options to take the next step toward achieving your career goals.
Stay informed with expert insights on MBA programs, career development, and leadership opportunities. Whether you’re evaluating schools, preparing for admissions, or exploring career paths after graduation, our carefully selected articles offer valuable guidance to help you make informed decisions and maximize your MBA investment.
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