If you’re a Tennessee resident or a working professional looking to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) without pausing your career, you’re in the right place. The best online MBA programs in Tennessee offer top-tier education with the flexibility of remote learning. Whether you’re aiming to switch industries, grow into a leadership role, or start your own venture, these programs provide the skills and network you need to succeed.
Let’s dive into the top Tennessee-based online MBA programs in 2025 that are affordable, accredited, and designed for busy professionals.
🎯 Why Choose an Online MBA in Tennessee?
- Accredited institutions (AACSB, ACBSP)
- Affordable in-state tuition rates
- Hybrid options for local students
- Strong regional employer connections
- Flexible schedules for working adults
Whether you live in Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, or a rural town, these universities make it easy to earn your MBA without stepping on campus.
🏫 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee (2025)
1. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) – Gary W. Rollins College of Business
- Program: 100% Online MBA
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Tuition: ~$24,000 (in-state)
- Duration: 12–24 months
- GMAT: Waiver available
Highlights:
UTC’s program is one of the most respected online MBAs in the state. It offers both general and specialized tracks (e.g., Finance, Healthcare Administration, Business Analytics) and supports asynchronous learning for maximum flexibility.
2. University of Memphis – Fogelman College of Business & Economics
- Program: Online Professional MBA
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Tuition: ~$22,000 (in-state)
- Duration: 18–24 months
- GMAT: May be waived based on experience/GPA
Highlights:
The University of Memphis provides a well-rounded curriculum with a focus on leadership and innovation. The program supports working professionals with flexible scheduling and strong alumni networks in the Southeast.
3. Tennessee Tech University – College of Business
- Program: Online MBA
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Tuition: ~$18,000 total
- Duration: 12 months (accelerated)
- GMAT: Waiver available
Highlights:
Tennessee Tech’s online MBA offers an affordable and fast-track experience. It’s ideal for career changers and working professionals looking to upskill quickly without compromising on quality.
4. Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)
- Program: Flex MBA – Online Option
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Tuition: ~$22,000
- Duration: 12–24 months
- GMAT: Waived with GPA or work experience
Highlights:
MTSU’s MBA combines flexible online delivery with on-campus networking opportunities. Students can tailor their curriculum and take advantage of Tennessee’s extensive business community.
5. East Tennessee State University (ETSU)
- Program: 100% Online MBA
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Tuition: ~$20,000
- Duration: 18–24 months
- GMAT: Waiver available
Highlights:
ETSU’s online MBA is designed with working adults in mind. With small class sizes and one-on-one faculty interaction, it blends the personalization of a private school with public-school affordability.
🧾 General Admission Requirements
While specifics vary by university, here’s what most Tennessee MBA programs require:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university
- Minimum GPA (2.75–3.0)
- Professional resume/CV
- Letters of recommendation (optional at some schools)
- Statement of purpose
- GMAT/GRE (often waived based on GPA or experience)
💼 MBA Specializations in Tennessee
Some online programs offer concentrations such as:
- Healthcare Administration
- Supply Chain Management
- Finance
- Project Management
- Business Analytics
- Human Resource Management
These options allow students to tailor their MBA toward specific industries or career paths.
💸 Tuition & Financial Aid
Tennessee public universities offer competitive tuition, especially for in-state students. Most programs also offer:
- Scholarships & assistantships
- Military & veterans benefits
- Employer tuition reimbursement partnerships
- Deferred or installment payment options
🎓 Why Get Your MBA from a Tennessee University?
- Local connections with companies like FedEx, HCA Healthcare, Bridgestone, and Nissan
- Accredited, respected programs with national rankings
- Flexible options—study from anywhere in the U.S.
- Career-ready curriculum focused on leadership, data, and strategic thinking
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a working professional, an entrepreneur, or a recent grad looking to advance your career, Tennessee’s online MBA programs offer the perfect blend of quality, affordability, and flexibility. With AACSB accreditation, no GMAT options, and flexible formats, these programs are built for success in 2025 and beyond.
