An online MBA in Economics can be a game-changer for your career, combining advanced business leadership training with in-depth economic analysis skills. In fact, professionals in business and finance occupations earn a median annual wage around $79,000, which is above the national average. You might be wondering: Is an online program worth it, and will an economics focus really boost my prospects? This guide will show you how an MBA in Economics delivers flexible learning and opens doors to high-growth, high-paying roles in today’s data-driven economy. A general introduction to what I can expect from an online master’s program in economics... An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more… Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree… A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses… What doors open after graduating with my master’s degree…
A Look Inside Online MBA in Economics Programs
An online MBA in Economics combines comprehensive business education with specialized economic analysis expertise. The curriculum integrates core MBA subjects with coursework in microeconomic theory, forecasting, and policy analysis. Programs typically offer flexible online formats with accelerated courses designed to accommodate working professionals. Most degrees require 30-45 credits and welcome candidates from diverse academic backgrounds, often waiving GMAT requirements for experienced professionals. While tuition costs vary significantly between institutions, various financial aid options are available to support your educational investment.
Program Breakdown: Inside 3 Popular Online Economics MBA Programs
Below, we highlight three accredited U.S. universities offering online or hybrid MBA programs with an Economics focus. Each program combines a flexible format with a robust curriculum and student support.
Longwood University—MBA (Economics Track)
Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), Longwood University offers an online MBA with Economics concentration that can be completed in as few as 10 months. Comprising 31 credits, the curriculum integrates data analytics and macroeconomics into management practices, covering business cycles, demand forecasting, and economic indicators through interactive projects. Students also gain broad business knowledge in accounting, IT, entrepreneurship, and leadership, culminating in a strategic management capstone. The program maintains high academic standards while offering flexibility for working professionals. With pay-by-course tuition and financial aid options, it provides an affordable path to an MBA without career interruption.
Duration: 10 months
Mode: Online
Cost: $431/credit in-state, $441/credit out-of-state, $13,361 (in-state), $13,671 (out-of-state) total, respectively
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Minimum 2.75 GPA or 5 years of professional work experience
- Transcripts
- Resume
Liberty University—MBA – Economics
Liberty University offers a 45-credit online MBA with Economics concentration, combining core business administration courses with a four-course economics cognate. The curriculum covers traditional MBA topics plus specialized courses in Microeconomic and Macroeconomic Theory, Money & Capital Markets, and International Economics. The program features flexible, asynchronous online learning with no set login times. Liberty provides comprehensive resources including online library access, tutoring, and career services, plus a faith-based support community. The ACBSP-accredited program prepares graduates for roles like pricing analyst, financial analyst, and economic forecaster. Military discounts and financial aid are available.
Duration: Two years
Mode: Online
Cost: $565/credit (FT), $615/credit (PT), $25,425 and $27,675 total, respectively
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Transcripts
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
Johns Hopkins Carey Business School—MBA in Applied Economics
Johns Hopkins’ MBA/MS in Applied Economics dual degree program offers an efficient path to earning both degrees through the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences and Carey Business School. The program requires 66 total credits, with 42 credits for the MBA portion (16 credits of Business Foundation courses and 26 elective credits). Students can pursue the program in full-time, part-time, or online formats, making it accessible for both traditional students and working professionals. The curriculum leverages Johns Hopkins’ data-driven approach, allowing students to develop both business leadership skills and economic analysis expertise in less time than pursuing degrees separately
Duration: Two to three years
Mode: Online
Cost: $1,985/credit, $131,010 total (dual degree)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Essays
- Transcript
- Resume
- Professional references
- GMAT/GRE scores or waivers
Student Help Center: Economics MBA FAQs
What’s the difference between an MBA in Economics and a Master’s in Economics?
An MBA in Economics combines core business education (management, finance, marketing) with applied economics training, while a Master’s in Economics focuses more deeply on economic theory and research. The MBA prepares you for business leadership roles where you’ll apply economic principles to decision-making. The MS develops specialized expertise for careers as economists, analysts, or academics. Choose an MBA for broader business management with economics knowledge or an MS for focused economic analysis and research roles.
What types of companies specifically seek Economics MBA graduates?
Graduates are particularly valued in consulting firms, investment banks, and corporate strategy departments where economic analysis drives decision-making. Many graduates find roles in market research firms, government economic agencies, or central banks where both business acumen and economic expertise are essential. Large corporations often seek Economics MBA holders for roles in forecasting, strategic planning, and market analysis. The financial sector, including hedge funds and investment firms, particularly values the combination of economic theory and practical business knowledge.
Do I need a background in business or economics to pursue an MBA in Economics?
No, you usually don’t need an undergraduate degree in business or economics to pursue an MBA in Economics. These programs welcome students from diverse academic backgrounds, including liberal arts and engineering. While some programs may require foundation courses in economics or statistics, many don’t require extra leveling courses for non-business majors. Schools often provide resources like bootcamps or self-study modules to help new students master fundamentals. Your diverse background can actually bring valuable new perspectives to the program.
Will this degree prepare me for both public and private sector opportunities?
Yes, an Economics MBA creates versatility across sectors. In the private sector, you’ll be equipped for roles in corporate strategy, market analysis, and financial forecasting. For public sector work, the degree provides valuable skills for positions in government economic agencies, central banks, or international organizations like the World Bank. The combination of policy understanding and business expertise makes graduates valuable in roles that bridge public and private interests, such as public-private partnerships or regulatory compliance.
Do online MBA in Economics programs require the GMAT or GRE exam?
GMAT/GRE requirements vary by school, with many online MBA in Economics programs now offering test waivers or not requiring these exams at all. Programs often evaluate candidates based on work experience, leadership skills, and academic performance instead Some schools grant automatic waivers for applicants with a 3.0+ GPA or sufficient professional experience. Check each program’s requirements, as policies differ, and consult admissions advisors about waiver eligibility.
How Much Does an Online Economics MBA Cost?
Online MBA programs in Economics typically require 30-45 credits, with tuition charged per credit hour. Total costs vary significantly based on institution type and program length. Many online programs offer flat-rate tuition regardless of residency status, eliminating traditional in-state/out-of-state differences. While programs include technology and online learning fees, students save on commuting and housing costs. Some programs offer cost advantages through flat-rate tuition for full-time enrollment, allowing additional courses without extra expense.
If finances are a critical concern, OMD offers several guides to assist with your planning. Our broad financial aid guide offers insights on how to apply for aid as well as an overview of financial aid options. Take a deeper dive with our guide to top grad school grants and explore 68 scholarships for master’s students. And for those who need help budgeting for their education, explore College Budgeting 101 guide.
| School | No. of Credits | Cost per Credit | Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Longwood University | 31 | $431, $441 (in-state vs. out-of-state) | $13,361, $13,671 |
| Liberty University | 45 | $565, $615 (FT vs. PT) | $25,425, $27,675 |
| Johns Hopkins (dual degree) | 66 | $1,985 | $131,010 |
What’s Next? Careers Possibilities with Your MBA in Economics
An MBA in Economics bridges economic analysis with practical business strategy, opening doors to careers in corporate finance, consulting, government, and analytics. This degree equips graduates with quantitative skills and management training, making them attractive to employers seeking data-driven decision-makers. Opportunities span private and public sectors, including financial services, tech, healthcare, and policy roles. The combination of economics expertise and leadership skills often translates into higher salaries and strong job growth.
Economist
Using economic modeling and data analysis to research trends, Economists forecast conditions, and advise on policy or strategy. With an MBA in Economics, you can work in financial institutions, think tanks, or corporations, often in roles like risk management or market analysis. The median annual wage for Economists is $115,730. MBA graduates bring managerial insight, qualifying for leadership roles within analysis teams or consulting firms, where economic expertise drives decision-making.
Financial Manager
With a median salary of $156,100, Financial Managers oversee an organization’s financial health, guiding investment decisions and long-term strategies. As an MBA graduate, you’ll analyze economic trends and inform budgeting and forecasting. Many financial managers have MBAs, and an economics focus gives you an edge in roles requiring economic data interpretation. This career path often leads to executive positions like CFO.
Management Consultant (Management Analyst)
Management Consultants help organizations improve efficiency and strategy, often advising on data-driven decision-making and planning. The median salary for Management Analysts is $99,400. Whether working for a consulting firm or independently, you’ll bring expertise in analyzing market forces and organizational inefficiencies, and you’ll use your economics background to recommend solutions that improve ROI, reduce risk, and align with business goals.