For working professionals in Texas who want to earn a Master of Business Administration (MBA), cost and flexibility are two of the biggest concerns. An online MBA program offers the flexibility to balance your job and studies, while also saving on relocation and commuting costs.
But finding an affordable online MBA program in Texas that doesn’t compromise on quality can feel overwhelming.
This comprehensive guide highlights the 10 cheapest online MBA programs in Texas for working professionals, with detailed information about tuition, program structure, admission requirements, specializations, and what makes each program unique.
By the end of this article, you will know exactly which programs fit your budget and career goals — helping you make the smartest decision for your education and finances.
Why Choose an Online MBA in Texas?
Before we dive into the cheapest options, let’s quickly look at why an online MBA is a smart choice, especially in Texas:
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Flexibility for working professionals: Continue working full‑time while earning your degree.
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Lower cost: Save on commuting, housing, and often tuition compared to on‑campus programs.
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Accreditation & quality: Many affordable programs in Texas are accredited and respected by employers.
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Career advancement: Boost your salary and move into management roles without putting your career on hold.
Texas is home to many universities offering online MBA programs designed specifically for working adults — with affordable tuition and flexible scheduling.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Affordable Online MBA
When comparing low‑cost online MBA programs in Texas, keep these factors in mind:
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Tuition per credit hour: Understand the full cost based on the number of credits required.
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Accreditation: Look for AACSB, ACBSP, or IACBE accreditation for quality assurance.
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Program length: Some can be completed in as little as 12–18 months; others may take longer.
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Specializations: Does the program offer concentrations that match your career goals?
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Residency requirements: Some programs may still require occasional on‑campus visits.
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Support for online students: Access to career services, technical support, and faculty mentorship.
Summary Table: 10 Cheapest Online MBA Programs in Texas for Working Professionals (2025)
| Rank | University | Estimated Tuition (Total) | Length | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Texas A&M University–Commerce | $12,000 | 12–24 months | AACSB |
| 2 | West Texas A&M University | $13,000 | 12–24 months | AACSB |
| 3 | University of Texas Permian Basin | $13,800 | 12 months | AACSB |
| 4 | Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi | $14,500 | 12–24 months | AACSB |
| 5 | Lamar University | $15,000 | 12–24 months | AACSB |
| 6 | Sam Houston State University | $15,500 | 12–24 months | AACSB |
| 7 | Tarleton State University | $16,000 | 12–24 months | AACSB |
| 8 | University of Houston–Victoria | $16,500 | 12–24 months | AACSB |
| 9 | Texas Woman’s University | $17,000 | 15–24 months | AACSB |
| 10 | University of Texas at Tyler | $18,000 | 12–24 months | AACSB |
Detailed Reviews of the Cheapest Online MBA Programs in Texas
1. Texas A&M University–Commerce
Estimated Tuition: ~$12,000
Length: 12–24 months
Accreditation: AACSB
Texas A&M–Commerce offers one of the most affordable online MBA programs in Texas, and it’s AACSB‑accredited — a mark of high quality.
The program is fully online, with no residency requirement. It offers multiple start dates per year and is designed for working professionals seeking advancement in business, management, or entrepreneurship.
Specializations include: Accounting, Marketing, Business Analytics, and more.
2. West Texas A&M University
Estimated Tuition: ~$13,000
Length: 12–24 months
Accreditation: AACSB
West Texas A&M University’s online MBA program is known for its affordability and flexibility. The program allows students to complete coursework at their own pace, part‑time or full‑time.
Specializations include Healthcare Management, General Business, and Computer Information Systems.
3. University of Texas Permian Basin
Estimated Tuition: ~$13,800
Length: As little as 12 months
Accreditation: AACSB
This accelerated online MBA is ideal for professionals who want to finish quickly and affordably. Students can specialize in Finance, Accounting, or general business.
Courses are delivered in seven‑week terms, and the program has multiple start dates per year.
4. Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi
Estimated Tuition: ~$14,500
Length: 12–24 months
Accreditation: AACSB
The online MBA from Texas A&M–Corpus Christi is designed for working adults looking to move up the career ladder. The program is flexible, with evening and weekend options and a focus on developing leadership skills.
Specializations include Healthcare Administration and Data Analytics.
5. Lamar University
Estimated Tuition: ~$15,000
Length: 12–24 months
Accreditation: AACSB
Lamar University offers an affordable online MBA with specializations like Criminal Justice Management, Enterprise Resource Planning, and Construction Project Management.
The program’s flexibility and low cost make it attractive to students from various backgrounds.
6. Sam Houston State University
Estimated Tuition: ~$15,500
Length: 12–24 months
Accreditation: AACSB
Sam Houston’s online MBA emphasizes leadership, communication, and analytical skills. It’s fully online and accommodates full‑time working professionals.
Students can choose electives tailored to their career goals.
7. Tarleton State University
Estimated Tuition: ~$16,000
Length: 12–24 months
Accreditation: AACSB
Tarleton State’s online MBA offers a good mix of affordability and quality. Students can complete the program at their own pace, and it includes optional specializations like Human Resource Management and International Business.
8. University of Houston–Victoria
Estimated Tuition: ~$16,500
Length: 12–24 months
Accreditation: AACSB
UH–Victoria’s online MBA provides strong support services for online learners, including advising and career development.
Specializations include Finance, Human Resources, and General Management.
9. Texas Woman’s University
Estimated Tuition: ~$17,000
Length: 15–24 months
Accreditation: AACSB
TWU offers an online MBA focused on leadership and organizational development. The program is known for supporting diversity and providing mentorship to working professionals.
10. University of Texas at Tyler
Estimated Tuition: ~$18,000
Length: 12–24 months
Accreditation: AACSB
UT Tyler’s online MBA provides flexibility, affordability, and several concentrations, including Marketing and Cybersecurity.
What Makes These Programs Affordable?
These online MBA programs in Texas are able to keep costs low by:
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Offering in‑state tuition rates for online students.
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Eliminating campus fees and housing costs.
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Using asynchronous online formats that reduce overhead.
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Focusing on working professionals who study part‑time.
Benefits of Choosing a Cheap Online MBA in Texas
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Graduate with less debt.
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Maintain your full‑time income while studying.
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Get a respected degree that improves career prospects.
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Choose from a variety of specializations and formats.
Tips for Choosing the Right Online MBA
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Compare the total cost of tuition and fees — not just per‑credit cost.
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Check for accreditation to ensure the degree is recognized.
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Look for programs that fit your schedule and career goals.
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Contact admissions counselors to ask about financial aid and scholarships.
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Read reviews and talk to alumni if possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the cheapest online MBA program in Texas?
Texas A&M University–Commerce offers one of the cheapest online MBA programs in Texas, with tuition around $12,000.
2. Are affordable online MBAs respected by employers?
Yes, as long as the program is accredited, employers value online MBAs — even affordable ones.
3. Can I work full‑time while doing an online MBA?
Yes. These programs are designed for working professionals and offer flexibility to study at your own pace.
4. How long does it take to complete an online MBA in Texas?
Most programs take between 12 and 24 months, depending on your pace.
5. Are online MBAs in Texas accredited?
All the programs listed here are AACSB‑accredited, which is one of the highest standards for business schools.
6. Do these programs require GMAT or GRE scores?
Some programs waive test scores for applicants with sufficient work experience or undergraduate GPA.
7. Can I get financial aid for an online MBA in Texas?
Yes. Many schools offer scholarships, grants, and federal aid for online students.
8. Which industries hire graduates from affordable online MBA programs?
Graduates often go into industries like healthcare, finance, technology, and management consulting.
9. Do I need to attend any on‑campus classes?
Most of these programs are 100% online, but a few may have optional residencies or workshops.
10. Can I choose a specialization in an affordable online MBA program?
Yes. Most programs offer multiple concentrations to match your career interests.
Final Thoughts: Start Your Journey to an Affordable MBA
Choosing a cheap online MBA program in Texas doesn’t mean compromising on quality. The schools listed in this guide are affordable, flexible, accredited, and respected by employers — making them perfect for working professionals.
Take the next step toward advancing your career while keeping your costs low. Explore these programs, contact admissions offices, and apply to the one that best fits your goals and budget.