The online Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a top ranked program in Kentucky, designed for working professionals who want to advance their career, broaden their business mindset and distinguish themselves in the workplace, with University of Louisville's 100% online MBA program.
This is more than your typical MBA degree.
Offered by the College of Business, UofL's online MBA delivers proven business theories, practices and leadership skills to make you a more engaged and effective business professional – online and on your schedule.
The College of Business has designed the online MBA program to closely follow the traditional MBA program, which is ranked as one of the "Best in the nation" by U.S. News & World Report, Poets & Quants and The Princeton Review. The fully online, asynchronous format provides the flexibility you need to balance work and life while pursuing your career aspirations!
UofL's online MBA has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report for academic excellence and student support.
Schedule a meeting with one of our team members!
Join us at a local Heine Brothers' coffee shop! Bring your business card, get a coffee on us and learn about the amazing opportunities afforded through our online MBA program. Click to register now!
This is more than your typical MBA degree. UofL's online MBA is a 45 credit-hour program that can help you acquire essential advanced business knowledge for career growth and offers the opportunity to travel to other countries to experience various business concepts and cultures.
Learn from expert faculty, guest speakers, business leaders and successful alumni, to develop the business skills to lead teams and drive growth within your organization.
Online MBA Highlights
Develop vital business skills needed to lead teams and improve the bottom line
Customize your MBA with certificate opportunities and innovative electives
Expand your global business savvy with a 10-day business study trip (optional)
Complete the program in 20 months (five semesters) or faster with “dual status”
Earn up to six ACE credits (tuition-free) for your military experience
Transfer up to six credit hours (tuition-free) from an accredited institution
Get lifetime career support and coaching from the Ulmer Career Center, exclusive to College of Business students
College Credit You Can Transfer to UofL's Online MBA
Students who have studied at other accredited institutions and wish to complete their degree at the University of Louisville can transfer up to 6 credit hours into our online MBA program.
To help you determine the best way to transfer your credits, we offer a pre-evaluation of credit so you can apply them in a way that matches your long-term goals. View UofL's Graduate Transfer Policy.
Military Experience Credit Toward a Top Kentucky Online MBA
The University of Louisville is a proud participant in the Yellow Ribbon program. As a military-friendly® institution, our top Kentucky online MBA supports service members in several ways:
Get credit for the work you’ve already completed – up to 6 credits of graduate-level ACE credits can be applied to your MBA elective requirements.
Reduced the cost of the program – competitive, merit-based scholarships are available for active duty military and veterans.
Stay on track – if you deploy during the program, an academic advisor will work with you to map a personalized plan to get you on the fastest route to graduation.
Take the military-focused management elective, Transitions: Military to Civilian
Talk to our enrollment team to get more information!
How to Apply to UofL's Online Master of Business Administration
Check out the typical application deadlines for the online MBA degree program and prepare your application packet according to the requirements outlined below.
Application Deadlines
Preferred Deadline
Term
Start Date
November 1 (Priority Deadline for Scholarship)*
Spring
January 13
December 1
Spring
January 13
May 1 (Priority Deadline for Scholarship)*
Fall
August 22
August 1
Fall
August 22
Please note, international applications are due November 1 for the Spring semester and June 1 for the Fall semester.
*We offer a limited number of scholarships for outstanding candidates who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential and a commitment to achieving their career goals. Scholarships are awarded on a first come, first serve basis, with no additional application needed. We encourage you to apply early to get a better chance of receiving a scholarship that can help offset the cost of tuition and fees. Application due date and terms subject to change.
How to apply for the online master of business administration
Request official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: gradadm@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Graduate School, 2211 S. Brook St., Louisville, KY 40292.
Currently pursuing or recently earned a graduate or professional degree from UofL? You could qualify for dual-status and complete your MBA in just 4 semesters! Reach out to our Online Enrollment Counselors, at 800.871.8635 or online@louisville.edu for more details.
What Is required for admission to the online MBA?
To be considered for admission, applicants must have:
a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution
a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
*Required application packet materials include:
a 1-2 page personal statement describing your interest in the online MBA program, why you selected the University of Louisville, your short- and long-term goals and any additional information you feel is relevant
two letters of recommendation
a professional resume
*Your application portal: Once you have started the graduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.
Online MBA for international students
The online MBA program is open to international students. If you live outside of the United States and intend to complete an online academic program from your home country, be sure to review these additional admission requirements for international students.
International students will not be issued a U.S. visa, since there are no campus attendance requirements.
All courses in the program are taught 100% online, allowing you to attain the entire degree from the comfort of your home and at any time convenient for you, regardless of your current location, anywhere in the world.
Ready to advance your business knowledge, skills and career?
For more information on the admission and application process, please contact contact our Online Learning Enrollment Counselors at 800.871.8635 or online@louisville.edu.
$38,500 bundled tuition + fees (total program cost) $22,500 bundled tuition for active-duty military and qualifying members of the National Guard/Reserve
Please note that other fees apply – check our UofL Online tuition page for all applicable costs.
This program is a Title IV federal financial aid eligible program. Tuition rate does not include costs associated with a specific course or program, such as textbooks.
Tuition, fees and other charges are subject to change and effective on the date enacted. For additional information on educational expenses and the Cost of Attendance, please visit the Student Financial Aid Office website.
You may be required to submit a request for tuition reimbursement. Download a Sample Request Letter [PDF] to get started.
Scholarship opportunities
View the current list of graduate scholarships offered through our College of Business. Please note that scholarships are limited, therefore we encourage you to contact the College of Business Graduate Programs office at 502-852-6440 to discuss your needs.
The online MBA is a 45 credit-hour program that requires 36 credit hours in core courses and 9 credit hours in electives. You can use your electives to earn a certificate in a specialized business area or select from a variety of innovative courses available across various disciplines.
To see all available online courses and degree completion requirements, please visit UofL's Academic Catalog page (select Degree Requirements tab and Online MBA link/option).
Delphi Certified courses align with design practices that are based on the national Quality Matters standards.
When you take a Delphi Certified course, you can expect to see a logical user interface, clear instructions for expected tasks and opportunities for you to communicate with your peers and instructor as the course progresses.
All core online MBA courses (not including electives) have earned the Delphi Certified designation.
Take the next step with confidence. Start working on your application and feel free to connect with us anytime if you have questions or need further guidance.
Prepare to stand out in today’s competitive business landscape with focused expertise, gained through an online graduate certificate or innovative electives. Graduate with your MBA and a business certificate, earned at no extra time or cost.
Complete a certificate in a focused business area or mix-and-match courses from certificate areas to fit your business interests.
Business certificate opportunities
Business of Healthcare- gain the business skills and healthcare experience necessary to take on leadership roles within healthcare systems, private practices and more.
Distilled Spirits Business – enhance your broad-based knowledge needed to manage business operations in the distilled spirits industry, including finance operations, branding and more.
Franchise Management – learn critical insights and practical knowledge needed to acquire, run and grow a franchise business.
Horse Racing Industry Business – develop broad-based knowledge in the industry areas of crisis management planning, business ethics, sports and wagering analytics, leadership strategy, regulations and industry nuances.
Managerial Analytics – gain knowledge and skills in rapidly-developing and in-demand areas including business analytics, artificial intelligence, blockchain, spreadsheet modeling, storytelling through data and more—all with a business management focus.
NOTE: Certificate courses without prerequisites may be taken individually as part of the 9 required elective hours.
Other electives are available on-campus across various disciplines. Online students are welcome to take seated electives, if desired.
One-day on-campus professional development (PD) courses are available in inclusive leadership, crisis management, negotiation and business etiquette. Complete three PD courses and earn 1.5 credit hours of electives.
A measurable return on your MBA
Earning an MBA is an investment in your career trajectory, not a pause in it. Professionals pursue graduate business education with clear expectations for advancement, influence and long-term earning potential. While outcomes vary by industry, role and experience, market data consistently shows a strong financial upside for MBA graduates.
According to the Graduate Management Admission Council’s Corporate Recruiters Survey, median starting salaries for MBA graduates in the U.S. are around $120,000 – significantly higher than salaries for professionals with a bachelor’s degree alone.
Value that extends beyond salary
Beyond immediate compensation, many graduates see ROI materialize through promotions, leadership transitions and expanded career mobility over time. MBA graduates commonly report outcomes that compound well beyond their first post-degree role, including:
Advancement into leadership and management positions
Broader professional networks across industries
Greater job stability and career resilience
Stronger strategic thinking and decision-making confidence
Long-term earning momentum, not just short-term gains
Expand your mindset
10-Day Business Study Trip (Optional)
Experience business firsthand during an optional 10-day study trip, included in the cost of the program.* During this hands-on learning experience, you will gain exposure to a variety of companies, industries and business cultures through a mix of business visits and immersion activities.
You will also have the opportunity to expand your network by traveling with fellow UofL MBA students from the online, professional, full-time and innovation programs, as well as College of Business faculty members. Trips occur in May and could include both international and domestic options such as a San Francisco, New York City, Boston and more. Examples of past international options include but are not limited to Argentina, Chile, China, Croatia, India, Romania, South Africa and Taiwan. Note: Alternate non-travel course section must be taken if study trip is not undertaken.
* MBA program charge includes the cost of the trip minus airfare, most dinners and personal incidentals. No refunds or discounts are applied if the student selects not to travel.
"We're truly getting a quality education from the College of Business." Antigona Mehani, Online MBA Graduate
Advance your career
UofL’s online MBA prepares you with the proven business knowledge needed to seek new positions and opportunities across a variety of industries, increase your earning potential, broaden your understanding of leadership best practices and take your career in business to the next level.
"After going through the online MBA program, I know how to be a better leader. I know how to manage them towards success. Before the program, I think I was just managing because that was my job. Through the classes that we took online, I learned how to manage how to reach a goal, how to push people for success and be a better manager." Kathryn Honegger, Online MBA Graduate
Unlock new opportunities for your life and career!
Connect your passion for change with your online MBA at UofL
If you are wondering how you will apply the knowledge gained in this program to your current role or future career, wonder no more! Our online MBA program features a student-centered assignment that provides meaningful and consistent opportunities to apply course concepts to a specific area of interest.
Cardinal choice assignment
To begin the Cardinal Choice Assignment, you will first select one of three recommended focal area: Career, Industry or Issue. You can choose whether you want to focus on enhancing knowledge for a current role, future career advancement, change and innovation in a specific industry or a broader fundamental issue you want to solve for your organization, the community or society at large.
The focus/track you choose will subsequently influence your learning path by:
Guiding the assignments you will complete in each of the core classes to personalize your experience.
Allowing you to apply learning from every core course toward your career, industry or specific issue you or your organization may encounter.
Providing you with a well-rounded understanding of methods, approaches, concepts and best practices that help you enhance your skills and prepare you to make a difference in your field.
Apply to our Online MBA program today and learn how you can set your degree apart from the rest!
Watch the Cardinal Choice Assignment spotlight video to learn even more about this unique program element.
Our students' work
If you are interested in how some of our students have used the Cardinal Choice Assignment, we included a few examples below.
Nolan Cook, Industry, Professional Sports Industry
This white paper was a careful analysis of the professional sports industry. The paper investigated various operations such as marketing, financial management, economic impact, supply chain management and more across the NFL, NBA and MLB, respectively. The findings note that, as an economic driving force, professional sports both create and strengthen new and existing industries.
Michael Chorney, Industry, Cardinal Health System: Proposal for New CT Imaging Platform
This proposal investigated the viability of Cardinal Health Systems acquiring and implementing a new CT scanner for use in the Cardinal Health Systems’ Emergency Department and throughout the hospital system. The report provided a clear and fast path to return on investment, indicated the potential for strong revenue and showcased how the new technology would benefit generations of patients to come.
Aleka Hawes, Issue, Process Improvement Plan (for Formerly Incarcerated Individuals)
This process improvement plan explored the need for a re-entry program for formerly incarcerated individuals. The re-entry program would allow for these individuals to find access to better resources for education and employment, improve mental health and drive stronger community engagement. The plan also included a multi-step process which would help these individuals along their path to reintegration.
This business plan outlines a strategy to offer boutique beauty offerings to individuals who are learning to take care of hair, skin and nails after undergoing cancer treatments. While offering general beauty products and services will make up much of the business, having specific offerings for individuals whose lives have been shaken up by cancer and cancer treatments creates a space for an underserved portion of the population to find a new personal sense of beauty.
Evan Conley, Industry, Opportunities in Commercial and Industrial Real Estate Development
This white paper examines the changing commercial and industrial real estate market. Shifts due to consumer behavior, workplace habits and sustainability/ESG considerations have all resulted in shifts in what the workplace may evolve into over the coming years and decades. This white paper examines these factors while considering the implications of technology’s impact on how people conduct business.
Gi Ann Leung, Career, Comprehensive Career Plan
In this career plan, Gi outlined many of the financial difficulties the younger generations currently face with managing personal finances, including financial literacy and troubles with credit scores. Gi details some of the individual traits that would make for a strong financial advisor, as well as motivations for using this career as a means to creating a positive societal impact.
Jeremy Fejedelem, Industry, Aerospace Industry White Paper
In this whitepaper, Jeremy discusses several different aspects of the aerospace industry, with a specific focus on the 6th Space Warning Squadron (6 SWS), as well as the importance of innovation within the industry. The 6 SWS is responsible for missile warning, missile defense and space domain awareness. Jeremy explores the importance of maintenance and technological innovation in such a critical component of the United States Armed Forces.
Jonathan Short, Issue, Process Improvement Sustainability Efforts within the Tobacco and Nicotine Industry
“The Cardinal Choice Assignment provides the opportunity to creatively link your course work throughout the MBA program to a specific area of your choosing. In my experience, it allowed me to gain a better understanding of sustainability from multiple angles and to develop strategies for implementing positive change in my industry.”
Kristen Southworth, Career, Career Plan
Kristen currently works as the COO with North Lime Coffee and Doughnuts and provides examples of the skills, tools, and experience she uses to effectively run operations within the company. After years of effective leadership, Kristen discusses the desire to transition into a new company and a new field (including in tech, gaming and/or entertainment). This career plan explores how Kristen’s skills would translate well into the new field.
Food for thought…
If you were starting your MBA online at UofL, what would be your Cardinal Choice Assignment topic or project? How would you change your work and the world around you? Are you ready to find out?
UofL’s 100% online MBA program is one of the most personable online MBA programs in the United States. We’ve intentionally designed every facet of our program with the student in mind and offer thoughtfully designed benefits intended to help you feel connected to your team, cohort, program and your school.
We understand that pursuing an online degree can feel lonely at times, especially for those balancing education with work and family obligations. But every step forward is another step towards your degree and lasting change in your life.
How our students and alumni stay connected
Here are a few ways we try to get you involved so that even if you’re fully online, you are never going through this journey alone.
The Stanley Hall scholarship
Kenneth Stanley Hall was a first-generation graduate student and member of the Fall ‘19 online MBA cohort. In the Spring of 2020, he passed away due to complications that arose from the COVID-19 pandemic. Stanley’s classmates were obviously profoundly moved by his death and decided to act to meaningfully honor his life and his legacy. Led by the Fall ‘19 cohort president and vice president, Fall ‘19 cohort banded together and were able to raise $25,000, the required amount necessary to generate an endowment scholarship.
This scholarship is still awarded today, thanks largely to Stanley’s Omega Psi Phi fraternity brothers’ ongoing contributions. Stanley’s family is still involved with the family they have found in UofL’s online MBA program and still give out the Stanley Hall Outstanding Character Award at the online MBA graduation dinners. Stanley’s memory will live on in the lives of everyone he touches through the scholarship that bears his name. You can learn more about Stanley in this article and you can also watch this video which shares more information about his time and impact on UofL’s online MBA program.
This video showcases both the legacy and story of Stanley Hall, as remembered by his peers, friends and family.
10-day international business trip
Our 10-day business trip often takes students around the world to different countries. This provides an opportunity to forge and strengthen lasting friendships with program members, while also enjoying exposure to other cultures, lifestyles and business practices. Watch the video below to check out some of the interesting places we visited in 2023!
This video captures some of the moments shared by our MBA cohorts as they traveled the world together. For many, this trip also serves as the first time cohort members get to meet in-person, a rarity for many online programs!
Welcome & orientation week
From the very start, we want you to feel like you’re on the same page as everyone else in your cohort. During this reception week students will receive a special “welcome” package from the College of Business and have the opportunity to meet others in their cohort.
Graduation dinner
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After months of challenging work, the finish line is finally in sight and graduation week has arrived! Celebrate your accomplishments with your cohort in-person at our graduation dinner, hosted in Louisville, KY prior to the commencement ceremony.
Student/Alumni/Faculty meet-ups
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Our online MBA students study with us from across the country and globally. When the opportunity presents itself, College of Business faculty and staff enjoy a chance to meet up with students and alumni in-person in cities and towns throughout the country! This provides a chance to meet up and catch up with those currently in, and those who have graduated from, our nationally renowned program!
Cardinal choice assignment
Collaborate with fellow cohort members to strategically align and customize your curriculum, focusing on the career, industry or specific issue that holds the greatest significance for you. Beyond earning your MBA degree, this project ensures you gain valuable, resume-enhancing experience and tangible deliverables that highlight your skills and expertise for potential employers.
Exclusive LinkedIn alumni group access
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The online MBA community extends far beyond those in your cohort. Upon graduation you will be invited to join an exclusive group of UofL online MBA alumni, comprised of individuals located throughout the country. Your network is about to get a lot bigger!
Ready to join our supportive community of learners who are making a positive impact wherever they are? We are here for you, to help you get started!
While the core curriculum and academic rigor are the same, an online MBA provides the added advantage of flexibility, allowing you to earn your degree on your terms, anywhere. An online MBA empowers you to pursue higher education while staying balanced in other areas of your life, such as work, family and travel.
How do I know if I should get an MBA?
An MBA could be the right choice if you're looking to advance your career, broaden your business acumen and strengthen your leadership abilities. It's a valuable investment for those seeking to navigate the complexities of today's business landscape, whether you're aiming to switch industries, take on management roles or start your entrepreneurial journey.
How do I choose an online MBA program?
Selecting the right MBA program is all about aligning its offerings with your career aspirations, evaluating its curriculum and other experiential opportunities, considering your preferred learning mode and networking potential, as well as factoring in location, reputation and financial feasibility. A well-informed choice ensures a program that maximizes your growth potential and paves the way for your future success.
How hard is an MBA online?
It depends largely on your ability to balance the MBA coursework with your existing commitments, such as a full-time job or family care. For each three-credit course in the UofL Online MBA program, you should plan for around 15-25 hours of coursework per week. How much time you spend every week on coursework will vary based on the intensity of the course and any prior knowledge you may have of the subject matter.
How long does it take to get an MBA online?
On average, the online MBA program takes 20 months or roughly two years, to complete.
How much does UofL’s online MBA cost?
For regular applicants, bundled tuition and fees is starts at $38,500. Bundled tuition for active-duty military, Coast Guard and qualifying members of the National Guard/Reserves, starts at $22,500. Tuition assistance and competitive scholarships are available.
Is there an active duty tuition rate?
Yes, bundled tuition for active-duty service members is $22,500 for all 45 credit hours ($500 per credit hour).
Are there scholarship opportunities available?
Yes! Visit our scholarship webpage to view the current list of graduate scholarships offered through our College of Business. Please note that scholarships are limited, therefore we encourage you to contact the MBA and Graduate Programs office at 502-852-6440 to discuss your situation.
Is the business trip required?
No, although the trip does count as a core and the trip is all-inclusive, outside of incidentals and airfare, so we highly encourage you attend if able. Alternate non-travel course section must be taken if the optional study trip is not chosen. MBA program charge includes the cost of the trip minus airfare, most dinners and personal incidentals. No refunds or discounts are applied if the student selects not to travel.
Am I required to visit campus at any point?
No, you are not required to visit campus. You are welcome to visit at any time to meet with faculty, admissions team, career services, etc. and to participate in the university-wide commencement ceremony.
Is there a part-time option?
No. Our program is cohort based which means you will complete 9 credit hours per semester over five semesters. However, the courses themselves are accelerated, so you only ever take one course at a time, completing three – four courses in a semester. We have found that students appreciate the structure of the program (no worries over which class to take and when) and find that the structure helps them stay on course to graduate. Additionally, we manage your enrollment therefore lessening any undue stress of registration concerns.
What if I need to take a semester off (or am active duty and have to leave on orders)?
This is not an issue, although we ask that you contact the MBA and Graduate Office and inform them of your situation. As with our on-campus programs, you would rejoin the next cohort and pick up where you left off.
How much time should I dedicate to each course per week?
For each three credit hour course, you should plan for around 15-25 hours per week. However, this will vary from individual to individual. For example, if you are knowledgeable and/or have had exposure to the subject matter, it may take less time. This may seem time-intensive, but the online MBA is designed so that you take only 1 course every five weeks, deliberately allowing you to hyper-focus on the subject matter of the particular course. Further, all the courses are delivered asynchronously, meaning there are never specific class meeting times. The flexibility of this online structure allows you to work around your schedule and priorities each week to complete assignments, etc., by the deadline.
Are there any career services available for MBA students?
Yes! Our College of Business offers career services for life. To learn more, visit our Career Services page.
Am I allowed to visit UofL?
Yes! While the online MBA program is 100% online, the UofL College of Business is located in beautiful Louisville, Kentucky, where southern charm meets urban innovation, creating a vibrant tapestry of culture, culinary delights and friendly faces that beckon you to explore. All online MBA students are welcome to visit our wonderful campus at any time to meet with faculty, admissions team, career services, etc. and to participate in the university-wide commencement ceremony. We hope to see you online or in person as a student of our online MBA degree program!
Success in a graduate program requires more than strong coursework – it requires the right support. From application through graduation, MBA students are backed by a knowledgeable team that understands the demands of working professionals. Enrollment counselors, academic advisors, program leadership staff and faculty collaborate to provide clear guidance, timely support and practical insight so you can stay focused, confident and on track throughout your degree.
