CSU Online MBA, Master of Computer Information Systems programs ranked No. 1 in Colorado

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Allison Sylte
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U.S. News & World Report has once again recognized the Colorado State University College of Business’s online graduate programs as the best in the state and among the top degrees in the country. 

The Online MBA has been recognized as the No. 1 program in Colorado since 2018. This year, it was ranked No. 32 among public institutions and No. 44 across all programs nationwide – placing it among the top 15%. U.S. News & World Report also recognized the program as No. 21 for veterans. 

“I am proud that our Online MBA continues to be ranked among the nation’s best programs and rose eight positions this year,” said Beth Walker, dean of the CSU College of Business. “This achievement reflects the caliber of our world-class faculty, individualized academic support and best-in-class technology designed to provide online students with the same high-quality learning experience as their peers on campus. Ultimately, our MBA helps graduates advance their careers and use business for a better world.”

Meanwhile, the Online Master’s of Computer Information Systems program climbed 17 positions in the 2023 rankings, placing it in the top 10 among public institutions and No. 14 across all institutions nationally. It too was recognized as one of the best programs for veterans, placing No. 8 nationwide. 

These rankings recognize faculty achievements, student excellence, the quality of the programs’ technology and support services, as well as the opportunities for students to connect with their peers and faculty. 

“Information technology is a highly competitive field, and our Top 10 STEM-designated Online MCIS program imparts the skills and perspective to stay sharp as systems evolve,” Walker said. 

Students can complete the Online MCIS program in as little as 18 months, and the Online MBA in 21 months. Both programs allow students to take up to five years to finish their degree, and utilize industry-leading lecture-capture technology produced by a dedicated video production staff to provide an extension of the on-campus experience in Fort Collins.

Students also have the opportunity to learn from accomplished faculty at a Research 1 institution, many of whom incorporate their latest research findings in their coursework, as well as tap into their own professional experience. The online learning experience is further supported by instructional coordinators, who have industry experience and advanced degrees, to provide extra one-one-one-support during online classes as well as during working hours.. 

The program flexibility and immersive online experience removes many of the obstacles to achieving a graduate education, making CSU’ College of Business online programs accessible to a more diverse selection of students. In the year ending June 30, 2022, 45% of Online MBA students were women and 13% were veterans or active-duty members of the uniformed services. 

“There are countless valid reasons why it can be tough to attend courses on campus,” said Travis Maynard, associate dean for graduate programs. “That shouldn’t preclude students from acquiring the skills and mindset a high-quality MBA imparts. Our Online MBA’s unique flexibility and format allow those students to balance lifestyle commitments while attaining a career-changing degree without sacrificing the quality of their education.” 

“Our Online MCIS students come from different backgrounds and different points in their careers,” said Leo Vijayasarathy, chair of the Department of Computer Information Systems. “The program caters to their diverse needs while providing the same standard of support our residential students receive. This unique structure serves their needs without compromising the quality of their education.”