Online MBA · Iowa · 4 programs compared

Best Online MBA Programs
in Iowa 2025

Compare the top 4 accredited online MBA programs in Iowa, real tuition ($25,848-$33,750), GMAT requirements, specializations, and acceptance rates. All data sourced directly from the schools.

4
Programs
$25,848
Lowest tuition
4/4
AACSB-accredited
4/4
GMAT optional
See all programs ↓ Compare all 49 states By state

Online MBA in Iowa: what to know

Iowa offers a solid choice of accredited online MBA programs, 4 on our list, led by the University of Iowa (Tippie) and Iowa State (Ivy), alongside the University of Northern Iowa and private Drake University. All 4 hold AACSB accreditation, the gold standard earned by a minority of business schools worldwide.

On cost, the most affordable option on our list is Drake University at roughly $25,848 in total tuition (about $718/credit), with the University of Northern Iowa (≈$26,190 out-of-state) also among the best values. Across the listed programs, published tuition ranges up to about $33,750, so it pays to compare. Tuition and fees change every year and in-state and out-of-state rates often differ, so confirm the current figure directly with the school before you budget.

Admissions are relatively accessible: every program here makes the GMAT optional or waivable, which removes a common barrier for working applicants. Available specializations include Leadership, AI and Tech Management, Business Analytics, and Business Communication. Because the format is fully online, it suits professionals who want to keep working while they study rather than relocate to campus.

International applicants are generally welcome, check each school's TOEFL or IELTS requirements early. Treat the numbers on this page as a starting point for comparison, and verify accreditation, deadlines, and specialization availability on the university's official admissions pages before you apply.

Researched top 4

Top Online MBA Programs in Iowa

★ #1 in IAAACSB

University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA
Iowa MBA
Tuition
$33,750
Per credit
$750/credit
GMAT
Optional
GPA
3.3 average
Duration
2-3 years
Acceptance
83%
LeadershipAI and Tech ManagementBusiness AnalyticsBusiness Communication+2 more
Intl VisaTOEFL req
#14 U.S. News
#2 in IAAACSB

Iowa State University

Ames, IA
Online Professional Master of Business Administration
Tuition
$31,500
Per credit
$750/credit
GMAT
Optional
GPA
3.2 average
Duration
2 years
Acceptance
97%
FinanceLeadershipManagement Information Syst…Marketing+2 more
Intl VisaTOEFL req
#205 U.S. News
#3 in IAAACSB

University of Northern Iowa

Cedar Falls, IA
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Tuition
$26,190 (out-of-state)
Per credit
$873/credit (out-of…
GMAT
Optional
GPA
Very Important
Duration
2 years
Acceptance
65%
General Management
Intl VisaTOEFL req
#4 in IAAACSB

Drake University (Zimpleman College of Business)

Des Moines, IA
Online MBA
Tuition
≈$25,848 (36 cr)
Per credit
$718/credit
GMAT
Optional
GPA
N/A
Duration
≈2 years
Acceptance
N/A
AccountingBusiness AnalyticsLeadership & Human Capital…Public & Nonprofit Manageme…
Intl VisaTOEFL req

Iowa Online MBA: Quick Comparison

SchoolTuitionPer credit GMATDurationAcceptance AccreditationIntl
University of Iowa$33,750$750/creditOptional2-3 years83%AACSB
Iowa State University$31,500$750/creditOptional2 years97%AACSB
University of Northern Iowa$26,190 (out-of-state)$873/credit (out-…Optional2 years65%AACSB
Drake University (Zimpleman College of Business)≈$25,848 (36 cr)$718/creditOptional≈2 yearsN/AAACSB
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Online MBA in Iowa: FAQ

What is the cheapest online MBA in Iowa?
The lowest-cost online MBA in Iowa on our list starts at $25,848 in total tuition. See the comparison table above for all programs and their costs. Always check with the school for current pricing and any financial aid options.
Do online MBA programs in Iowa require the GMAT?
4 of the 4 programs listed for Iowa have waived or made the GMAT optional. Check the GMAT row in the comparison above and confirm the current admissions policy directly with each school.
Are online MBA programs in Iowa AACSB-accredited?
4 of the 4 programs on this page hold AACSB accreditation, the gold standard for business education worldwide. Use our main comparison tool to filter by AACSB only across all 49 states.
Can international students enroll in an online MBA in Iowa?
3 of the 4 programs listed for Iowa welcome international students. Check the Intl and Visa indicators on each program card above for details, and confirm TOEFL/IELTS requirements with the school.
How does MBA Compass choose these programs?
We compile programs from publicly available sources including U.S. News rankings, Poets&Quants, AACSB directories, and the schools' official websites. We list the leading accredited programs we can verify per state based on accreditation, reputation, and availability. Schools cannot pay to appear or rank higher.
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