Rachel SmithStarting a graduate business degree is a smart move for your future. You might be a new graduate or a worker aiming for a promotion.
Balancing a full-time job with hard classes is a big challenge. So, you need a program that fits your goals. I analyzed the local schools to help you make this important choice.
If you’re looking for the best MBA schools in Indianapolis, this guide can help. These programs offer flexible schedules and practical skills to help you succeed.
Let us find the right school for your career today.
How much does an MBA cost in Indianapolis?
Pursuing an MBA in the area requires a financial investment ranging from around $17,000 for accessible online formats to over $83,000 for premium full-time programs, depending on your residency and chosen institution.
| Program Type | Estimated Total Cost / Annual Tuition |
| Online MBA Programs | As low as $17,000 |
| General MBA Total Tuition | $21,000 – $83,000+ |
| Premium Full-Time (In-State) | ~$32,000 per year |
| Premium Full-Time (Non-Resident) | ~$58,000+ per year |
1. Kelley School of Business Indianapolis
Website: http://kelley.indianapolis.iu.edu/
Address: 801 W Michigan St
Contact: (317) 274-2147
Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
The Kelley School of Business in Indianapolis offers a top-ranked Evening MBA program that’s deeply connected to the downtown business and healthcare scenes. This unique setup lets you apply classroom lessons to your job the very next day.
A former colleague of mine finished this program and often told me how he used a Tuesday night lecture to solve a real-world problem on Wednesday morning.
This direct connection to the local industry is helpful because you work on live projects with major companies. Plus, you get access to a huge alumni network that helps with job placement.
Just keep in mind that the workload is very intense. It can be exhausting to balance such a tough academic schedule with a demanding full-time career.
2. Lacy School Of Business
Website: https://www.butler.edu/lacyschool
Address: 4600 Sunset Ave
Contact: (317) 940-9221 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
When I looked for programs focused on hands-on experience, I was impressed by how the Lacy School of Business approaches leadership training.
They give every student a dedicated career coach right away. This personal guidance helps you track your career goals from your very first semester.
Because the classes are small, you get plenty of attention from professors and build great relationships with your peers. You even work on a capstone project as a consultant for local businesses.
I noticed how much more practical Lacy’s focus on ethical business really is. Graduates leave ready to lead with a strong sense of social responsibility.
Just remember that this program is a major financial investment because the tuition is higher than at public schools.
3. Anderson University Falls School of Business MBA Program – Indiana
Website: https://anderson.edu/
Address: 1100 E 5th St, Anderson
Contact: (800) 428-6414
Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Finding a program that fits your personal values can be hard, but the Falls School of Business at Anderson University makes it easier. Their curriculum combines business strategy with Christian ethics in a very natural way.
I really like how they include moral lessons in finance and management classes to help create leaders with a purpose. If you are a motivated professional, you can use their accelerated timeline to finish your degree much faster.
They also use a team-based learning model that resembles a modern office rather than a traditional classroom. This helps you build the social skills you need for top executive roles.
Because the school is small, the professors are always available for mentoring.
However, the main downside is the commute. The campus is a long drive for anyone working downtown.
4. Indiana Wesleyan University
Website: https://www.indwes.edu/
Address: 3777 Priority Way South Drive
Contact: (317) 574-3980 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Indiana Wesleyan University is a specialist for working adults because it uses a smart model to prevent burnout. You only take one course at a time, so you can focus deeply on one subject instead of worrying about many different exams at once.
I went to a networking event last year and met several students who loved this structure. It’s especially helpful for people who are balancing full-time jobs while managing family life with elementary school-aged kids.
Since you stay with the same group of students throughout the program, you build a very supportive community. Most classes are taught by people currently working in the field, so the lessons are very practical.
However, the fixed schedule makes it hard to change your plans or take a break without falling behind your group.
5. University of Indianapolis
Website: https://uindy.edu/
Address: 1400 E Hanna Ave
Contact: (317) 788-3216 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
If you want to build a real portfolio while you study, you should look into the University of Indianapolis. Their programs focus on community integration and project-based learning.
This means you complete big projects that solve actual problems for local organizations. As a result, you get a practical return on your investment right away.
The school also offers stackable credentials, which is great for busy adults. You can earn smaller certificates that eventually add up to a full graduate degree.
Since the classes are small, you get excellent personal help from faculty on tough subjects. I also appreciate that the campus is very commuter-friendly with plenty of parking to reduce stress.
Just keep in mind that they have fewer specialized electives than much larger state universities. However, the hands-on experience and easy access make it a very strong choice for many students.
