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California State University, Chico

Masters Programs

Chico State has been offering a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree since 1968. Our AACSB-accredited and affordable program is consistently ranked among the best value in the country.

Starting Fall 2025, Chico State will offer a Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA), equipping students with the skills to turn data into impact. Our AACSB-accredited and affordable program is consistently ranked among the best value in the country. 

MBA program ranking badges

Close up of student, Zion Brigham, accepts their degree in Agricultural Business during the 2023 commencement ceremony.

On the Fast Track

Our programs are typically completed in 18-24 months. Faculty engage students with case studies, lectures, and project work to elevate your competitive edge for career advancement.

MBA or MSBA: Which Path Fits You Best?

Both the MBA and MSBA are powerful degrees that can launch your high-level business career, but they offer distinct paths:

  • MBA

    • Build a broad foundation in business leadership with a focus on marketing, strategy, and operations.
    • We offer a General MBA (online or in-person) or specializations in Project Management (online or in-person), Business Analytics (STEM-designated; in-person only), or Health Services Administration (online only). 

  • MSBA

    • Dive deep into data analytics, emphasizing technical skills and data-driven decision-making.
    • Ideal for those passionate about uncovering insights and applying data to solve complex business challenges.

  • Key Similarities

    • Both programs offer an AACSB-accredited degree, recognized for excellence, top 6% in the world.
    • GRE/GMAT optional. GRE/GMAT is not required for the MBA program and is optional for MSBA program.
    • STEM-designated Business Analytics MSBA and MBA: Business Analytics degrees. Which allows qualifying F-1 students will be eligible for up to 36 months of OPT employment authorization in the U.S.
    • Individualized course planning. Since we are not a cohort-based program, you can complete the program in the timeframe that works best for you.
    • Prerequisites streamlined. Students without an undergraduate degree in business can take prerequisite coursework and modules to prepare for the MSBA or MBA program. These can be completed prior to applying to the program, prior to starting the program, or as you begin taking courses.
    • Outstanding faculty and small class sizes. Our high-quality learning environment provides practical hands-on knowledge and skills.
    • Dedicated Director and Advisor. Our staff are here to answer any questions related to the program!

  • Key Differences

    • Prerequisite Courses:
      The MSBA requires specific technical prerequisites (or equivalents) to ensure you’re prepared for the program’s data-focused curriculum. The classes listed below, also known as modules, can be completed by enrolling in flexible, self-paced online courses. Each course includes 4-7 hours of online instructional content. 
    • MINS 301: Information Management Systems
    • MATH 108: Statistics of Business Economics 
    • ECON 103: Principles of Microeconomic Analysis
    • MKTG 305: Survey of Marketing
    • FINA 307: Survey of Finance
    • MATH 109: Survey of Calculus

Masters Program Highlights

  • STEM-designated Business Analytics MBA degree. Our Business Analytics MBA option is a STEM degree, which allows international student MBA graduates to take advantage of a full three-year OPT.
  • Designed with working professionals in mind. Most classes start at 5 p.m. or later Monday-Thursday making it possible to be a working professional and a graduate student.
  • Individualized course planning. Since we are not a cohort-based program, you can complete the program in the timeframe that works best for you.
  • Prerequisites streamlined. Students without an undergraduate degree in business can take prerequisite coursework and modules to prepare for the MBA program. These can be completed prior to applying to the program, prior to starting the program, or as you begin taking MBA courses.
  • Outstanding faculty and small class sizes. Our high-quality learning environment provides practical hands-on knowledge and skills.
  • Dedicated MBA Director and Advisor. Our staff are here to answer any questions related to the program!