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Searching for the best MBA programs in Houston TX?
This guide highlights the top MBA programs in Houston, TX. Find out which schools offer the specializations, flexible schedules, and career opportunities you’re looking for.
Make an informed choice for your next big career move.
The University of Houston – Bauer College of Business Full-Time MBA
The University of Houston – Bauer College of Business Full-Time MBA offers a comprehensive program tailored for hands-on, customizable business education. It immerses you in real-world business practice right in the vibrant city of Houston. Here’s what you can expect:
- Experiential learning opportunities: Unique programs allow you to earn while learning.
- Flexible scheduling: Evening classes in the second year support a quicker return to the workforce.
- Robust curriculum: More than 20 concentrations and over 100 electives provide high customization.
- Accelerated completion: Graduate within 22 months, facilitating rapid career progression.
- Extensive alumni network: Connect with over 60,000 alumni globally for networking and mentorship.
- Practical applications: A curriculum focused on practical skills with a cross-functional capstone project.
- Additional opportunities: Engage with Cougar Fund, RED Labs, and the SURE program for hands-on experience.
- High ROI: Affordable tuition at a tier 1 university leads to significant career and financial rewards.
Personalized academic advising and career counseling help you develop crucial skills and strategic thinking for your career. This program offers a compelling combination of flexibility, practical learning, and networking.
McCombs School of Business – Weekend MBA at Houston
The McCombs School of Business Weekend MBA in Houston is designed for working professionals seeking to advance their careers without interrupting their work life. Key features include:
- Convenient scheduling: A 21-month program with classes on alternating weekends (Friday evening and all-day Saturday).
- Strategic location: Located at the UT Health Cizik School of Nursing in the Texas Medical Center.
- Focused curriculum: Emphasis on leadership, technology, and global business coursework.
- Networking opportunities: Join co-curricular learning sessions in Austin.
- Highly ranked program: Recognized as one of the best in Texas and the U.S.
- Career support: Dedicated career advisors provide ongoing support and resources.
- Selective admissions: Four application rounds with merit-based test waivers for qualified applicants.
This program offers a flexible, comprehensive education that enhances business knowledge while advancing your career, making it an attractive option for busy professionals.
University of St. Thomas – MBA Program
The University of St. Thomas (UST) MBA in Houston is a flexible, affordable, and fast-paced program comprising 30 credit hours. Here’s why it’s a great choice:
- Customizable experience: Save time and money with flexible scheduling.
- Experienced faculty: Engaging professors with a global business perspective.
- Strategic connections: Network with top Houston employers.
- Industry focus: Specialized emphasis on financial, healthcare, and technology sectors.
- Ethical foundations: Curriculum rooted in Catholic social values and ethics.
- Prime location: Situated near Houston’s Museum District and downtown for easy access.
- Reasonable tuition: Affordable program with the possibility of completing in one year for full-time students.
- Advanced tracks: Offers options like a five-year BBA/MBA in Accounting.
UST’s MBA program is suited for professionals aiming to advance their careers while maintaining a balance with other commitments.
University of Houston-Clear Lake – Master of Business Administration (MBA)
The University of Houston-Clear Lake MBA offers a curriculum combining core courses and various specializations. Key features include:
- Flexible core customization: Tailor your program to your needs with core and optional courses.
- Multiple formats: Available in online and hybrid formats.
- Specializations: Concentrations in Environmental Management, Human Resource Management, and more.
- Competitive career outcomes: Graduates enjoy minimal debt and competitive salaries.
- Faculty engagement: Internships and strong networking partnerships with local industries.
- Prestigious accreditation: AACSB accreditation ensures quality education.
- Flexible start dates: Three program start dates (January, June, August) for varied schedules.
Admissions may include standardized test waivers for qualified students, making the application process more accessible. The program emphasizes a well-rounded business education tailored to regional industry needs.
Rice University – Full-Time MBA
The Rice University Full-Time MBA stands out for its distinguished, research-based curriculum focused on innovation and leadership. Features include:
- High rankings: #1 Graduate Entrepreneurship Program by Princeton Review.
- Strong salary outcomes: Average base salary of $149,521 with an additional signing bonus of $33,909 for graduates.
- Robust career support: 94% of students accept job offers within three months post-graduation.
- Diverse class profile: Inclusive cohort with 39% women and 47% U.S. minorities.
- Specializations: Focus areas like finance, consulting, and entrepreneurship.
- Deferred Enrollment: Option to book a spot in advance.
- Global programs: Engage in global experiential learning.
- Supportive environment: Tight-knit culture fostering mentorship and peer support.
- Prime location: Located in Houston, a city known for its strong job market and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Rice Business offers a learning experience that emphasizes innovation, practical skills, and leadership in a collaborative environment.
University of Houston-Downtown – MBA Program
The University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) MBA Program, offered through the Marilyn Davies College of Business, ensures versatility for working professionals. Below are key features of this program:
- Hybrid learning mode: A blend of online and face-to-face classes.
- Convenient scheduling: Evening classes and fully online leveling courses cater to your busy schedule.
- Diverse concentrations: Choose from Accounting, Business Intelligence, Human Resources, and more.
- Team-taught classes: Courses are team-taught by faculty and industry experts.
- Affordable tuition: Competitive tuition rates with flexible payment options.
- Soft-start admissions: No initial GMAT score needed, allowing easier program entry.
- Corporate-driven focus: Concentrations align with market needs and corporate job demands.
- Specialized tracks: Master of Professional Accountancy for those focusing on accounting.
This program provides practical knowledge and industry-aligned skills, creating ample opportunities for career growth and networking.
Sam Houston State University – Master of Business Administration (MBA)
The Sam Houston State University MBA Program focuses on interdisciplinary integration to enhance administrative decision-making. Here are the notable highlights:
- Comprehensive coursework: 36 graduate hours covering core courses and electives.
- Format options: Available online or as a hybrid program, completable in as few as four semesters.
- Diverse core courses: Include Accounting for Management, Marketing Management, and more.
- Elective specialization: Customize your MBA with electives in areas such as Economics, Finance, and Project Management.
- Accessible admissions: GMAT waivers for qualified applicants based on GPA and professional experience.
- Supportive environment: Emphasis on practical applications and critical thinking exercises.
- Inclusive program: Open to students from various academic backgrounds.
This MBA program aims to develop leaders equipped with contemporary skills, providing a strong platform for career enhancement.
Texas Southern University – Master of Business Administration (MBA) Program
Texas Southern University’s MBA Program is tailored for aspiring leaders in today’s global market. Key program aspects include:
- Holistic management education: Covers finance, accounting, marketing, and more.
- Skill development: Emphasizes critical thinking and analytical skills for business problem-solving.
- Specializations: 30 credit hours of coursework with specializations such as data analytics and healthcare administration.
- Career preparation: Focused on various fields including finance, information technology, and Human Resources.
- Earning potential: Graduates typically enjoy higher starting salaries compared to bachelor’s degree holders.
- Broad education: Equips students with both foundational and advanced business knowledge.
This program offers a well-rounded education, preparing graduates for competitive business environments.
Houston Christian University – Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Houston Christian University’s MBA Program is designed for busy professionals seeking tailored learning experiences. It includes:
- Flexible options: Full-time and part-time schedules with nine customizable MBA tracks.
- Ethical focus: Emphasis on ethical leadership based on Christian values.
- Small class sizes: Personalized attention from faculty in small class settings.
- Learning formats: Available in residential and online formats; residential classes held once a week in the evenings.
- Global exposure: Optional 10-day international trip with covered travel expenses.
- Accessible tuition: Cost-effective program for both international and domestic students.
Houston Christian University’s MBA incorporates professional and ethical development, fostering an enriched learning experience.
Choosing the Best MBA Program in Houston TX
When choosing the best MBA programs in Houston TX, consider various factors to ensure you find the perfect fit for your career goals. Here are some key considerations:
- Accreditation: Look for programs accredited by reputable institutions such as AACSB to guarantee high-quality education.
- Curriculum flexibility: Choose programs offering a range of concentrations and electives to tailor your education to your specific career needs.
- Faculty expertise: Ensure the program has experienced faculty, bringing both academic and industry perspectives.
- Networking opportunities: Select schools with strong alumni networks and local business partnerships for career advancement.
- Location: Proximity to business hubs can provide additional opportunities for internships and networking.
- Cost and financial aid: Compare tuition rates and check for available financial aid, scholarships, and flexible payment options.
- Work-life balance: Balance personal commitments with education; part-time options are suitable for working professionals, while full-time programs offer immersive experiences.
By weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the best MBA program to advance your career.
Conclusion: Advancing Your Career with an MBA from Houston
Houston offers a vast array of MBA programs tailored to diverse professional goals. With well-regarded institutions offering high-quality, flexible programs, you can find the right fit for your career aspirations. Begin your journey by exploring these programs, researching further, and applying to the ones that align with your needs. Your next big career move starts here.