Our nationally ranked, ACBSP-accredited MBA degree is a versatile, affordable and flexible program that can be completed in as little as one year—either online or in a hybrid format in Joliet, Illinois. USF’s MBA is designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in business, accounting, economics or a related field, or equivalent work experience. No GMAT is required for admission, and you can transfer up to nine credit hours if you’ve started your studies at another school.
Choose one of nine concentrations that will expand your leadership and communication skills through training based on latest business and industry trends. You’ll learn from dedicated instructor-mentors who have strong corporate experience and a genuine interest in the success of their students. You also have the option to start with lower cost graduate certificates (from $399/credit hour) that can lead to a USF degree later. Numerous bridge programs and dual degree opportunities are available if you want to double the impact of your learning.
COBHA Graduate Studies Top Links
Online, In-Person
$799/credit hour
12-24 Months
Classes run in eight-week cycles, meaning you can enroll at six different times during the year. A key component of the MBA is coursework focused on real world experience, led by faculty with impressive academic credentials who are experts in the field. Students will immediately engage in work that applies to their workplace or a specific industry certificate or credential. USF’s classes feature adult-learning activities such as case study exercises, directed discussions, and team projects and presentations.
Tailor your degree to fit your career goals! The MBA program at the University of St. Francis includes a competitive curriculum, with several concentrations to choose from, including:
You’ll demonstrate the ability to make sound fact-based business decisions using various tools including data analytics, research, and decision-support models
You’ll be able to formulate and communicate a decision based upon quantitative, qualitative and strategic considerations.
You’ll develop interpersonal communication skills in presentations, written communication, and teamwork.
The University of St. Francis is accredited by both the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org) and the Illinois Board of Higher Education (ibhe.org). This program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (acbsp.org). 
Our programs are accredited are top-ranked! From 2021-2023, U.S. News & World Report’s Online MBA Programs Ranking listed the University of St. Francis MBA as the #1 ranked private program in Illinois, and in the 36th percentile nationally in 2023.
“When I decided to pursue my MBA, I researched several programs at local universities and was surprised to learn about USF’s national ranking as one of the best educational values for tuition cost. USF’s hybrid program of both in-class and online courses made pursuing an advanced degree manageable with a full time executive position, volunteer work, and a family. The faculty members were extremely knowledgeable in their various disciplines and connected the course work to the real world. The curriculum and textbooks were timely and relevant for today’s highly competitive work environment, and assignments and projects gave purposeful practice to the material discussed.”
Colleen Mathy, Program Graduate
Curious to know more about online learning and what it entails? USF prides itself on delivering a practical, real-world curriculum and faculty expertise in a medium proven to be conducive to the needs of working adults. Explore USF’s online learning environment here!
Our admissions staff is here to make sure every question you have about graduate studies gets answered! Learn more about graduate studies and make an appointment today!
Continuing and adult students are eligible for some aid and scholarships. Review our scholarships page to see what’s available to make financing your education easier.
Graduate students are invited to participate in student life, even if you’re an adult or studying from afar! Learn about the resources USF provides to all students to prepare them for success.
