California is by far the largest state in the United States, with an estimated population of 39,250,017 (2016). California’s higher education system is the biggest in the nation with over 2 million students. This system is made up of three segments: the University of California schools, California State University schools, and California Community Colleges. California students also have over 100 nonprofit institutions and roughly 200 for-profit universities. This enormous network of higher education institutions gives students a massive amount of opportunities for students who want to get an online MBA in California.
Consider an Online MBA in California
California is home to numerous schools with online MBA programs. There are various factors students should weigh when deciding the best online MBA programs in California. Tuition is an essential consideration for every student who wants to advance their education. California online MBA programs are usually less expensive than on-campus counterparts because students are spared many of the extra fees associated with attending on-campus classes.
MBA online programs are located all over the state. One of the best benefits of distance education is that students can complete their studies anytime, anyplace. However, some programs may have on-campus requirements that prevent enrollment for students who do not live close to a school. Another thing to keep in mind when applying to business school is that numerous business schools expect applicants to submit their scores for the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT). Some schools are moving away from by including work experience (which can help a student be successful in an MBA program), or they give students a choice to obtain a GMAT waiver.
The Mason School of Business at William & Mary
Location:Williamsburg, VA
Length:24 – 36 Mos
Leavey School of Business at Santa Clara University
Location:Santa Clara, CA
Length:24 Mos
California State University, Monterey Bay
Location:Seaside, CA
Length:18 – 24 Mos
Seattle University Albers School of Business and Economics
Location:Seattle, WA
Length:30 Mos
University of Kansas School of Business
Location:Lawrence, KS
Length:27-36 Mos
MBA Concentrations for Students in California
Students in online MBA programs in California can choose from various degree concentrations. California is known as a hub for world-class healthcare, tech firms, and entertainment – which means California employs large numbers of professionals in these areas. Students registered in online MBA programs in California can choose a degree concentration in information technology or healthcare management to prepare them for careers in these leading industries.
California MBA Graduates Economy, Job, and Career Outlooks
The largest industries in the state of California are trade, transportation, and technology along with education and health care. Many professions within these industries are predicted to experience significant growth in the upcoming years – such as operations research analysts, medical assistants, and nurse practitioners.
CALIFORNIA WILL ADD OVER 2.5 MILLION TOTAL JOBS FROM FROM 2014 – 2024.
California job growth should be encouraging for students who are interested in earning their online MBA. This degree, especially with a concentration in either information technology or healthcare management, gives the education and preparation necessary for graduates to enter these desired fields.
Top Employers in California:
| Company | Industry | Headquarters City | # of Employees |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP, Inc. | Information Technology | Palo Alto | 287,000 |
| Wells Fargo & Company | Banking | San Francisco | 264,700 |
In many fields, a higher-level degree equals an increased salary – and graduates from California online MBA programs, are no exception. The following sections show potential careers these graduates qualify for and the varieties of wages they might earn.
MBA Careers in California:
Health Medical Service Manager
Medical health services manager coordinates medical and health services for a particular clinical department, facility, or group of doctors. Median pay is $96,550 per year, and this career is projected to grow by 25% between 2016 and 2026.
Computer and Information Manager
A computer and information systems manager is in charge of directing the computer-related processes of an organization — these include implementing systems and new technologies to help the company reach its information tech goals. Computer and information systems managers make an estimated annual salary of $134,800 and positions are projected to grow by 12% from 2016 to 2026.
Computer Systems Analyst
A computer systems analyst specializes in blending business and information technology to maximize the performance of an organization’s computer system. They command a median annual salary of $88,320, and the number of open positions is projected to grow by 9% from 2016 to 2026.
Human Resources Manager
A human resources manager works as the connection between an organization’s management and its employees. They oversee administrative functions such as recruitment, contracting, and strategy. Human resources managers make an annual median salary of $107,910, and a growth rate of 9% is projected for jobs from 2016 to 2026.
Top Executive
Top executives are responsible for directing and coordinating activities related to operations at a particular company/organization. They are regularly in charge of making high-level decisions about strategy. Top Executives professionals earn a median annual salary of $105,950 and job growth is projected to be at 8% between 2016 and 2026.
Online MBA Programs in California
With the appearance of large employers in the fields of healthcare and information technology, California online MBA programs give the skills and knowledge necessary for students to obtain employment in these and countless other industries. The following is a list of online MBA programs in California.
How to Select an Online MBA Program in California
There are many significant considerations to make before deciding on an online MBA program in California – these include factors explained above like cost, specialization, and concentrations. The following list is made up of some necessary steps to follow during the MBA program research process (in any state).
COMPARE STUDENT OUTCOME DETAILS
Student outcomes incorporate graduation rate, retention rate, the average debt student will take on, and overall student achievement with their degree program. Student outcomes do not ensure you will be pleased with a particular program but can help pinpoint a school’s pros and cons.
CONSIDER EXPECTED COSTS OF YOUR PROGRAMS
Practically every college or university posts tuition costs online. Additionally, you should research other college-related expenses like housing accommodations and meal plans (if you plan to study on-campus), official fees, and IT fees (for online students). You should also look into grants, scholarships, and financial aid that can offset some of the expenses.
CHECK THAT CLASSES WILL FIT INTO YOUR BUSY SCHEDULE
Scheduling is crucial for students with other significant commitments, such as childcare or full-time jobs. Many online programs are self-paced; students in these classes are free to complete coursework on their own schedule. Synchronous programs (on the other hand) demand weekly online meetings with teachers and other students.
PARTNERSHIPS WITH LOCAL BUSINESSES
A large number of online MBA programs will include internships and capstone requirements ― and in many cases, students can obtain on-the-job training with real-world office experience. Look into the school’s industry partnerships, particularly regarding the field you plan to enter after receiving your MBA.
TALK TO CURRENT STUDENTS AND RECENT ALUMNI
You should reach out to the alumni office at each school you are weighing and ask to be connected with previous students. These individuals can be great sources of information about education costs, life on (or off) campus, local tips, and other fundamental details for aspiring MBA students.