Texas has a strong online MBA market driven by its large business community, active entrepreneurship culture, and multiple highly-regarded university systems. An online MBA from a Texas university can open doors at Fortune 500 companies in Dallas and Houston, fast-growing startups in Austin, or provide the credential you need to advance in any industry. Here is a guide to the best online MBA programs in Texas.
Top Online MBA Programs in Texas
- University of Texas at Austin McCombs School of Business: The highest-ranked online MBA in Texas. McCombs online MBA provides the UT Austin brand at a lower cost than residential. Strong alumni network in Dallas, Houston, and Austin.
- Texas A&M Mays Business School: Strong online MBA with research-intensive faculty and Aggie alumni network.
- University of Houston Bauer College of Business: Houston. Strong online MBA well-connected to the Houston energy, healthcare, and corporate sectors.
- Texas Tech Rawls College of Business: Online MBA with lower tuition than UT and A&M. Good value for career advancement.
- Southern Methodist University (SMU) Cox School of Business: Dallas. Private university online MBA with strong Dallas corporate connections.
- University of Texas at Dallas Naveen Jindal School: Online MBA with strong STEM and technology business focus.
Online MBA Cost in Texas
- UT Austin McCombs Online MBA: Approximately $60,000-$75,000 total
- Texas A&M Online MBA: Approximately $40,000-$55,000 total
- UH Bauer Online MBA: Approximately $35,000-$50,000 total
- Texas Tech Online MBA: Approximately $25,000-$40,000 total
- SMU Cox Online MBA: Approximately $65,000-$80,000 total
MBA Graduate Salary in Texas
- MBA graduate (entry management): $75,000-$100,000/yr
- MBA in finance (Houston energy sector): $95,000-$135,000/yr
- MBA in technology (Austin): $100,000-$145,000/yr
- MBA in consulting: $110,000-$150,000/yr
- Senior MBA-level manager (5+ years): $120,000-$180,000/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best online MBA in Texas?
UT Austin McCombs online MBA is the highest-ranked and carries the strongest brand recognition. Texas A&M Mays is strong with an exceptional alumni network. UH Bauer offers good value with strong Houston corporate connections. The best choice depends on your budget, career goals, and which alumni network is most valuable for your target industry.
Is an online MBA from a Texas university respected?
Yes, particularly from UT Austin, Texas A&M, and SMU. Online MBA programs at these institutions are AACSB accredited and use the same faculty as residential programs. Employers in Texas generally understand and respect online MBA degrees from flagship state universities. The brand and alumni network matter more than the format for career purposes.
How long does an online MBA take in Texas?
Most Texas online MBA programs take 2 years part-time or 18-24 months accelerated. UT Austin McCombs offers a 22-month online format. Texas Tech offers a flexible format that can be completed in as little as 12 months with full-time effort.
What industries hire MBA graduates in Texas?
Energy (Houston), technology (Austin), finance (Dallas), healthcare (Houston and Dallas), and consulting are the primary MBA hiring industries in Texas. Major Texas employers of MBA graduates include ExxonMobil, Chevron, Dell Technologies, American Airlines, AT&T, and dozens of large Texas-based companies plus consulting firms with major Texas offices.
Does an online MBA in Texas help with Texas no income tax?
Texas no income tax amplifies the salary gains from an MBA. An MBA salary jump from $70,000 to $100,000 in Texas nets significantly more than the same jump in California or New York due to the absence of state income tax. Over a 20-year career this advantage compounds significantly.








