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Merrimack College Master of Business Administration (MBA)
100 Percent Online or Hybrid | Tuition Under $18K | Complete Part Time in 20–24 Months
One MBA, Two Pathways. Designed to Meet You Where You Are.
Advance your career with an industry-aligned Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Merrimack College. Choose from two distinct pathways designed to match your professional experience and future goals.
In both pathways, you’ll master in-demand analytical, strategy, leadership and decision-making skills through a rigorous curriculum grounded in real-world application. Beyond the classroom, you are supported by dedicated mentorship and comprehensive career services.
Whether you’re launching your career or seeking to advance to executive leadership, Merrimack’s MBA provides the tools you need to reach your goals and make a lasting impact.
Quick Facts:
100 percent online
Tuition under $18K
36-credit program
No GRE/GMAT required
Financial aid-eligible
Scholarships and corporate partner discounts available
Learn more about Merrimack’s Master of Business Administration.
Choose Your MBA Pathway
Merrimack’s MBA offers two distinct pathways to support your goals.
The Accelerated Early Career MBA follows a structured curriculum with a defined course sequence, offering you a streamlined path to mastering foundational business knowledge and essential managerial skills. This focused format prioritizes core essentials and does not offer electives or concentrations.
Within the Professional MBA, you can tailor your studies through elective coursework and concentrations in areas such as applied data science and AI, marketing or leadership. This pathway also includes a capstone experience, where you apply your learning to real-world business problems.
| Accelerated Early Career MBA | Professional MBA | |
|---|---|---|
| Designed For | Professionals beginning their careers | Experienced professionals |
| Credits | 36 | 36 |
| Start Terms | Fall I and Spring I | Enrolling every eight weeks |
| Modality | 100% online | 100% online |
| Online Format | Live (evenings) or on demand | Live (evenings) or on demand |
| Completion Time | 9–12 months (full time) or 18–24 months (part time) | 18–24 months (part time) |
| Prerequisites | None | Minimum two years of relevant, full time, post-undergraduate work experience |
| Curriculum | 36 credits of core curriculum focused on foundational skills in accounting, finance, marketing, leadership, analytics, business communication and project management | – 24 credits of core curriculum focused on advanced business and leadership topics – 8–12 credits of electives in a chosen concentration – 4-credit capstone project emphasizing applied, real-world problem-solving |
| Tuition | Under $18K | Under $18K |
Designed For:
Professionals beginning their careers
Credits:
36
Start Terms:
Fall I and Spring I
Modality:
100% online
Online Format:
Live (evenings) or on demand
Completion Time:
9–12 months (full time) or 18–24 months (part time)
Prerequisites:
None
Curriculum:
36 credits of core curriculum focused on foundational skills in accounting, finance, marketing, leadership, analytics, business communication and project management
Tuition:
Under $18K
Designed For:
Experienced professionals
Credits:
36
Start Terms:
Enrolling every eight weeks
Modality:
100% online
Online Format:
Live (evenings) or on demand
Completion Time:
18–24 months (part time)
Prerequisites:
Minimum two years of relevant, full time, post-undergraduate work experience
Curriculum:
- 24 credits of core curriculum focused on advanced business and leadership topics
- 8–12 credits of electives in a chosen concentration
- 4-credit capstone project emphasizing applied, real-world problem-solving
Tuition:
Under $18K
Why Earn a Merrimack MBA?
Tuition Under $18K
Earn your degree and unlock new career opportunities at an affordable tuition. Corporate partner discounts and scholarships are also available.
Faculty Working in the Field
Build skills aligned with your experience and goals through coursework developed with industry leaders and taught by expert faculty working in the field.
A Flexible Learning Experience
Live classes are held one evening per week from 7–9 p.m. ET and led by experienced faculty. Sessions are delivered in person and online, with recordings also available on demand for later review. Outside of live class sessions, students complete structured coursework through asynchronous learning activities designed to support ongoing academic progress.
Stack Your Degrees
Earn your Merrimack MBA and another of our business master’s degrees in accounting, business analytics or finance for as little as $10K.
Career Outlook for MBA Graduates
The statistics below reflect the many professional opportunities across industries in the Northeast region that may be available to you with an online MBA from Merrimack.
8.1 percent
increase in relevant jobs in the Northeast region, 2024–2034
$106K
median salary for aligned roles in the Northeast region in 2024 (compared to $94K national median salary)
215,161
unique job postings for relevant roles in the Northeast region, January 2024–January 2025
Source: Lightcast utilizing U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics QCEW data, 2025
A Curriculum Built for the Future of Business
Merrimack’s 36-credit MBA program delivers a relevant, hands-on curriculum tailored to the demands of a modern economy and a rapidly evolving job market. Developed in partnership with industry experts, the program equips you with essential skills in analytics, business insight, strategic thinking, leadership and communication.
Built for maximum impact, the Accelerated Early Career MBA delivers a structured core curriculum designed to develop your business foundation expertise efficiently. By bypassing electives, this pathway provides a clear and direct route to professional proficiency.
Within the Professional MBA, you’ll complete core coursework along with electives and concentration options aligned with your career goals. This pathway also includes a capstone experience designed to strengthen your consultative and applied problem-solving skills through real-world business challenges.
Accelerated Early Career MBA (36 Credits)
If you do not hold an undergraduate degree in business, foundational coursework must be integrated into the curriculum to provide the framework needed to succeed in more complex finance courses. These courses will take the place of open electives.
Core Business Essentials (12 Credits)
This course provides a foundational understanding of how data and analytics support managerial decision-making in modern organizations. This course introduces students to the core concepts and techniques of business analytics, focusing on how data can be analyzed, interpreted and visualized to support decision‑making in a business context. Emphasis is placed on framing business questions analytically, understanding and evaluating data, recognizing patterns and trade-offs and communicating insights to support effective decisions. The course equips students with the skills needed to transform data into actionable insights and prepares them to navigate the complexities of data-driven decision-making. Credits: 4
This course strengthens students’ ability to analyze and communicate data-driven insights through mastery of technology tools commonly used by managers and business analysts. Students develop practical skills in using computer-based technologies to access, prepare, analyze, model and visualize data in support of business decision-making. Emphasis is placed on building spreadsheet models for scenario and sensitivity analysis, evaluating uncertainty and tradeoffs and translating analytical results into clear, actionable insights. Students become adept at analyzing data, structuring decisions and presenting results effectively in a professional business context. Credits: 4
This course provides an introduction to the concepts, principles and structures that guide how organizations measure and report their financial performance. The course develops students’ understanding of the principles and structure of financial accounting, including the preparation and interpretation of financial statements. Students examine the accounting cycle, revenue recognition, asset and liability measurement and equity reporting. Emphasizing critical thinking and real‑world relevance, the course prepares students to use financial information to assess organizational health, evaluate strategic choices and communicate insights that support sound managerial decision-making and investment decisions. Credits: 4
The objective of this course is to introduce students to the basic principles and fundamental techniques in the context of financial analysis. The course introduces students to the basic principles of finance, critical financial terminology and key financial management indicators. Emphasis is placed on building a foundational knowledge of financial statement analysis and assessing your organization’s financial health with a focus on practical application and real-world situational analyses. It is a great overview for students to familiarize themselves with relevant finance concepts and provides a structured approach to facilitating the identification of future financing needs and measuring the impact and sustainability of growth. Credits: 4
Prerequisite: Foundations of Financial Accounting (ACC5030)
Modern Leadership & Market Dynamics
Leaders today face highly dynamic business environments characterized by numerous disruptive forces and complex challenges. To be an effective leader in this environment necessitates a new set of skills. In this highly interactive course, students will explore leadership theories and will practice applying various leadership frameworks, approaches and tools to develop a holistic understanding of leadership at the individual, team and organizational levels. Students will also gain valuable insights into their own personal leadership style, and how to collaborate with internal and external constituents in a manner that benefits all stakeholders. Credits: 4
This course integrates core marketing principles with emerging trends and innovation to provide a strategic introduction to the principles that guide effective marketing in modern organizations. Students explore how firms create, communicate and deliver value by understanding consumer behavior, market segmentation, branding, pricing, digital marketing and managing the marketing mix. The course emphasizes applying marketing frameworks and emerging technologies to address real-world business challenges. By integrating foundational theories with real‑world relevance, the course equips students to think critically about how marketing shapes competitive advantage in an evolving business landscape. Credits: 4
This course is designed to equip students with the communication, self‑presentation and strategic planning skills required for professional success and career advancement. The course focuses on how individuals communicate value, fit and direction across key professional contexts, including resumes and cover letters, LinkedIn and networking platforms, interviews, meetings and presentations. Students develop competencies in professional communication, relationship building, executive presence and situational awareness, with emphasis on articulating ideas clearly, reading the room and engaging stakeholders effectively. The course prepares students to navigate professional environments and their careers with confidence, clarity and intentionality. Credits: 4
Strategy & Innovation
Developing and implementing successful strategic innovations are requirements for achieving competitive advantage in most markets. This case-based course addresses how organizations deploy innovation strategies to create new markets and to compete in novel ways. Students will learn how to analyze the external environment and assess the capabilities of an organization to craft innovation-based competitive strategies. The case studies discuss important strategic decisions for value creation and appropriation, value innovation, business model innovation and digital transformation in the context of industry evolution and competition. Credits: 4
This course equips students to plan, execute and improve work at scale by integrating project management principles and tools with process optimization methodologies. Students learn project planning, scheduling, resource optimization, risk assessment and stakeholder management. Emphasis is placed on aligning initiatives with strategy and portfolio priorities and using metrics, dashboards and controls to drive accountability and measurable performance. The course also explores process design and continuous improvement principles from Lean/Six Sigma, including process mapping, eliminating waste, reducing variability and enhancing flow. Credits: 4
Professional MBA (36 Credits)
If you do not hold an undergraduate degree in business, foundational coursework must be integrated into the curriculum to provide the framework needed to succeed in more complex finance courses. These courses will take the place of open electives.
Management Tools & Data
As organizations increasingly rely on data-intensive technologies, managers must understand the technical foundations of analytics and how artificial intelligence tools are used to extract insight from data. This course introduces the technical principles underlying data analytics, including data acquisition and preparation, exploratory analysis, predictive modeling and the use of AI and machine learning techniques to analyze complex datasets. Students apply analytical tools to generate predictions and recommendations, with particular attention to practical implementation in business contexts. The course also explores the role of AI-based tools in enhancing analytical workflows and decision-making. Credits: 4
This course examines how organizations design, manage and modernize operational systems to achieve efficiency, resilience and competitive advantage. Topics include process efficiency, capacity planning, quality management, supply chain coordination and technology-enabled optimization, including automation, analytics, cloud platforms and digital workflows. Students develop an understanding of how operational and technological capabilities interact to streamline processes, reduce costs, enhance service levels and enable scalable growth. Credits: 4
This course provides students with a solid foundation in accounting and finance, focusing on the critical concepts and tools needed for effective decision-making. Students will learn to interpret and analyze financial information to assess business performance, evaluate risks and make informed strategic choices. Emphasizing practical application, the course prepares students to create and interpret financial statements, and to use financial data to drive organizational success and make sound business decisions in a variety of professional contexts. Credits: 4
This course explores the concepts, methods and applications of decision modeling to address various marketing issues, such as segmentation, targeting, positioning, new product design, advertising and promotional planning and strategic planning. Topics include connecting with customers, building strong brands, creating value, supply chains and distribution and integrated marketing communications. Students gain practical experience conducting market research and use substantiated facts and inferences to present recommendations and make managerial decisions in a client-based atmosphere. Credits: 4
Leadership & Big Picture Strategy
Companies are increasingly participating in global business activities influenced by various institutions, policies and cultural norms. Competing on an international scale presents distinct challenges and opportunities compared to domestic competition, which is critical for today’s business leaders to understand. This course introduces essential concepts for crafting and executing effective global strategies. It highlights the complexities of modern globalization, and the impact of politics and international trade regulations on businesses. Additionally, it explores the advantages of becoming a multinational organization and the steps necessary for entering global markets. The course also addresses how physical distance and cultural differences can create social barriers and hinder emotional connections between groups. By combining strategic and communication skills, this course focuses on developing a robust international strategy and effectively conveying it to diverse stakeholders with varying interests. These integrated skills not only help identify optimal strategies for global market entry but also promote cross-collaboration among team members from different countries and cultures. Credits: 4
This course delves into the intersection of strategic leadership and human capital management, providing students with the tools and frameworks to effectively lead organizations in a dynamic and competitive environment. Focusing on the strategic alignment between leadership, organizational culture and human capital, students explore how to drive performance and innovation through the development and management of talent. Topics include leadership theories and styles, organizational design, talent acquisition, employee development and performance management. Students also learn how to create and sustain a high-performance culture that fosters engagement and growth. By the end of the course, students are equipped to lead organizations with a deep understanding of how to leverage human capital as a strategic asset, ensuring long-term success and adaptability in a rapidly changing business landscape. Credits: 4
The MBA Capstone course offers students the opportunity to engage in consultative projects that address real-world challenges faced by organizations across various industries. Through collaboration with each other and with corporate partners, students apply their academic knowledge to solve strategic problems, gaining hands-on experience in areas such as business transformation, market analysis and operational optimization. The course provides direct access to industry leaders who offer guidance, feedback and professional insights. Additionally, opportunities are integrated throughout the course, allowing students to build valuable connections and enhance their professional presence within their chosen industries. This capstone experience is designed to bridge academic theory with practical application, preparing students for higher-level leadership roles. Credits: 4
Concentrations (8–12 credits)
Concentrations are available within the Professional MBA pathway, allowing you to tailor your studies to specific career interests or pursue a general management focus. Some concentrations align with industry-recognized certifications, supporting continued professional development.
Each concentration features courses led by expert faculty with real-world experience and is designed to reflect current workforce demands.
Concentrations include:
- Capital Management
- Taxation
- Fraud Risk Management
- AI Strategy & Applications
- Data Science
- Business Analytics
- FinTech
- Product Management
- Engineering Management
- Organizational Leadership
- Strategic Human Resource Management
- Digital Media and Content Creation
- Sports Management & Marketing
- Strategic Marketing Communication
- Community-Based Nonprofit Leadership
Master the Skills of Business Administration
The Merrimack Master of Business Administration equips you with the skills and expertise that today’s employers value. Through our program, you’ll learn to:
Analyze how decisions in one functional area affect performance across other areas of an organization
Use business analysis, data interpretation and problem-solving techniques to support effective decision-making
Navigate complex business challenges across industries, applying key management theories and best practices
Evaluate business operations in a global context, considering international influences and dynamics
Apply structured, strategic approaches to solve organizational problems
Student Support Resources
Students in the Girard School of Business benefit from a dedicated success team.
Support includes:
- 1:1 advising and mentoring from the Girard School of Business graduate advising team
- Access to LinkedIn Learning, Handshake and a host of career services
- Online professional development workshops
- Math, writing and accessibility services through the Academic Success Center
Optional Professional Packages for Career Acceleration
Merrimack offers optional Professional Packages to fast-track job placement and career growth. They provide additional personalized career support, networking opportunities with potential employers and executive coaching.
| Professional Catalyst Package Cost: $750 | Executive Coaching Add-on Package Cost: $1,250 | Career Acceleration Package Cost: $2,500 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| MBA Professional Development Summit — connect with employers, hear from industry leaders and expand your network | (X) | (X) | |
| Job search, networking and interview preparation webinars | (X) | (X) | |
| Professional review and optimization of LinkedIn profile | (X) | (X) | |
| Access to the Homecoming tailgate social connecting students with alumni | (X) | (X) | |
| Two executive coaching sessions focused on professional profile enhancements (resume review, job search, elevator pitch, networking strategies) | (X) | (X) | |
| Alumni mentorship for career guidance | (X) | ||
| Personalized networking opportunities and tailored interview preparation with direct feedback from an experienced industry professional | (X) |
- MBA Professional Development Summit — connect with employers, hear from industry leaders and expand your network
- Job search, networking and interview preparation webinars
- Professional review and optimization of LinkedIn profile
- Access to the Homecoming tailgate social connecting students with alumni
- Two executive coaching sessions focused on professional profile enhancements (resume review, job search, elevator pitch, networking strategies)
- MBA Professional Development Summit — connect with employers, hear from industry leaders and expand your network
- Job search, networking and interview preparation webinars
- Professional review and optimization of LinkedIn profile
- Access to the Homecoming tailgate social connecting students with alumni
- Two executive coaching sessions focused on professional profile enhancements (resume review, job search, elevator pitch, networking strategies)
- Alumni mentorship for career guidance
- Personalized networking opportunities and tailored interview preparation with direct feedback from an experienced industry professional
Tuition and Financial Aid
$488
per credit*
36
credits
$17,568
tuition
*Tuition is based on 2025–2026 academic year.
Tuition and fees are subject to change annually.
Additional program fees may apply based on optional coursework.
Financial Aid
Merrimack College remains committed to providing one of the most affordable online MBA programs, ensuring students can access a high-quality regionally accredited, private business school education at a competitive price.
As a graduate student, you may qualify for federal support in the form of loans. We strongly encourage all eligible* graduate students to apply for federal financial aid, even if they don’t demonstrate an exceptional financial need.
All graduate students also have the option of obtaining private loans and/or enrolling in an institutional payment plan.
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Merrimack College’s FAFSA school code is 002120.
*Certificate programs do not qualify for federal financial aid.
Tuition Assistance, Scholarships and Discounts
- Employer Tuition Assistance: Many employers offer tuition reimbursement — check with your HR department.
- Alumni Discount: Double Warrior Scholarships are available to all Merrimack graduates. New alumni automatically receive a 33 percent savings on tuition if they begin a graduate degree program within two terms following graduation. All other alumni (i.e., those with an earlier graduation date) are eligible for a tuition discount of 25 percent.
- Partnership Discount: Employees of affiliated companies may qualify for discounted tuition rates. Partners include Blue Cross Blue Shield, Citizens Bank, Mass General Brigham, New Balance and many more. Contact us or ask your employer whether your organization is an official partner with Merrimack’s online programs.
It’s Easy To Apply Online
A complete application includes:
- Online application (no fee)
- Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions
- Resume or LinkedIn profile
- Two+ years of relevant, full-time, post-undergraduate work experience (Professional MBA pathway only)
Candidates are encouraged to book an informational call with the business school team to learn more about how this program aligns with their career and academic interests. No GRE/GMAT scores are required. Additional materials may be requested.
Key Dates and Deadlines
This program enrolls six times a year. Each term is eight weeks.
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Accolades and Accreditation
At Merrimack College, we’re proud of our long history of providing quality degrees to students entering the job market. Our faculty are more than just teachers. We are committed to helping you grow — academically, personally and spiritually — so that you may graduate as a confident, well-prepared citizen of the world.
U.S. News & World Report | Best Regional Universities North (2026)
- Most Innovative Schools (No. 8)
- Regional Universities North (No. 38)
- Best Undergraduate Teaching (No. 20)
- Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs (No. 82)
(at schools where doctorate not offered) - Best Colleges for Veterans (No. 16)
- Best Value Schools (No. 52)
NECHE-Accredited
- Merrimack College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
Tell me more about Merrimack’s programs.
*This applies to new students entering the Summer II 2026 term. Does not roll over to subsequent terms. Does not include MEd-School Counseling, CMHC, MSW, certificate programs. Not combinable with other offers (i.e. Double Warrior, Fellowship, Partnership Discounts, etc.) For CSC 6000, credit will be applied to their second course.