Earning a Master of Business Administration (MBA) can significantly impact your career by enhancing your leadership skills, expanding your professional network, and increasing your earning potential. Washington State University (WSU) offers a flexible Online MBA program through its Carson College of Business, making it an attractive choice for working professionals.
If you’re considering applying to WSU’s MBA program, this guide will walk you through the admission requirements, application process, tuition, and key program details to help you make an informed decision.
Why Choose WSU’s Online MBA?
WSU’s Online MBA is designed to accommodate busy professionals who want to advance their careers while continuing to work full-time. The program is known for its:
✔ 100% Online Format – Study from anywhere at your convenience.
✔ AACSB Accreditation – Assurance of high-quality business education.
✔ GMAT Waiver Options – Flexible admission for experienced professionals.
✔ Multiple Specializations – Customize your MBA experience.
✔ Strong Alumni Network – Access career opportunities and professional connections.
With several specializations to choose from, including Marketing, Finance, Hospitality Business Management, and International Business, students can tailor their MBA to fit their career goals.
WSU MBA Admission Requirements
To apply for WSU’s Online MBA, prospective students must meet the following criteria:
1. Bachelor’s Degree from an Accredited Institution
Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university. This ensures that students have a strong academic foundation before pursuing graduate-level business studies.
2. Minimum GPA Requirement
- The program typically requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Applicants with a lower GPA may still be considered based on their work experience and other qualifications.
3. GMAT/GRE Scores (With Waiver Options)
- WSU generally requires GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) scores for admission.
- However, GMAT waivers are available for students who meet specific conditions.
GMAT Waiver Eligibility Criteria:
Applicants can qualify for a GMAT waiver if they meet any of the following conditions:
📌 Five or more years of progressive work experience with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
📌 A graduate or professional degree from an accredited institution with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
📌 A business degree from an AACSB-accredited university with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
📌 A STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
📌 Ten or more years of progressive work experience with a GPA of 2.79 or higher.
How to Apply for a GMAT Waiver:
Applicants requesting a GMAT waiver must include a detailed justification in their personal statement, explaining how their experience and education make them a strong candidate for the program.
4. Professional Work Experience (Recommended, Not Required)
- While professional experience is not mandatory, having at least two years of relevant work experience can strengthen an applicant’s profile.
- Executive MBA (EMBA) applicants typically have 7+ years of leadership experience.
5. Personal Statement (Essay Requirement)
Applicants must submit a personal statement that highlights:
✔ Their career goals and how an MBA from WSU will help achieve them.
✔ Relevant professional experience and skills.
✔ Justification for a GMAT waiver (if applicable).
6. Letters of Recommendation
- Two letters of recommendation from supervisors, mentors, or academic faculty are required.
- These letters should provide insight into the applicant’s leadership skills, work ethic, and potential for success in an MBA program.
7. Resume or CV
Applicants must submit a detailed resume showcasing:
📌 Educational background
📌 Professional experience
📌 Leadership roles and achievements
8. English Proficiency Requirement (For International Students)
- Non-native English speakers must submit TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) scores.
- Minimum required scores:
📌 TOEFL iBT: 80
📌 IELTS: 7.0
WSU MBA Application Process
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
Prospective students must fill out the WSU Online MBA application form and pay the application fee.
Step 2: Submit Transcripts
Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions must be sent directly to WSU.
Step 3: Provide Required Documents
📌 Resume
📌 Personal Statement
📌 Letters of Recommendation
📌 GMAT Scores (if required) or GMAT Waiver Request
Step 4: Await Admission Decision
- WSU typically reviews applications within a few weeks and notifies students of their admission status.
- Admitted students receive further instructions on course registration and orientation.
WSU MBA Tuition and Financial Aid
Understanding the cost of an MBA is crucial when planning for graduate school.
WSU Online MBA Tuition
- $834 per credit hour
- Total estimated cost: $39,930 for 48 credit hours
Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities
WSU offers several financial aid options for eligible students:
✔ Federal Student Loans – Available for U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
✔ Military and Veteran Benefits – Special tuition assistance for military personnel.
✔ Employer Tuition Reimbursement – Many companies provide tuition assistance for employees.
Career Benefits of a WSU MBA
Earning an MBA from WSU can open doors to higher-paying leadership roles across industries.
Average Salary Increase After an MBA:
📈 20–50% increase in salary within 2–5 years of graduation.
Top Companies Hiring WSU MBA Graduates:
🏢 Amazon
🏢 Microsoft
🏢 Boeing
🏢 Nike
🏢 Google
Common Career Paths After WSU MBA:
- Senior Business Analyst
- Marketing Director
- Financial Manager
- Operations Manager
- Product Manager
Final Thoughts: Is WSU’s MBA Right for You?
If you’re looking for an affordable, high-quality, and flexible MBA program, Washington State University’s Online MBA is an excellent option. The no-GMAT requirement for experienced professionals, combined with the AACSB accreditation, makes it a great choice for career-driven individuals.
Before applying, consider:
✔ Do you meet the admission requirements?
✔ Are you eligible for a GMAT waiver?
✔ Do you need financial aid?
✔ What specialization aligns with your career goals?
If you’re ready to take the next step, apply to WSU’s Online MBA today and start your journey toward career success!
