One-Year MBA Program

An affordable AACSB-accredited degree program from Lehigh University

Apply Now and Start Your MBA Track

Full-Time Education That Merges Opportunity, Rigor, and Speed

Our one-year MBA program (1-MBA) is designed for ambitious professionals who are ready to take the next step, whether that means transitioning into a business-focused career path or accelerating growth in their current field.

This intensive STEM-designated program immerses students in the core areas of business while emphasizing a values-driven approach that prepares them to lead in today’s technology-driven world. By stepping out of the workforce for the duration of the program, participants gain the space needed to focus completely on building the knowledge, skills, and network that will define the next stage of their careers.

Want to see how the 1-MBA could move your career forward? Fill out the form to request more information about the program, and an advisor will be in touch. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

How the 1-MBA Ranks

#86

Best Business Schools

U.S. News & World Report 2025

#48

Best MBA Programs

Fortune 2026

#44 (tie)

United States MBA

QS World University 2026

1-MBA Ranks

Career Outcomes

$109,554

Average Salary

$175,000

Maximum Salary

21%

Received Multiple Job Offers

88%

Employed, Continuing education, or pursuing military or volunteer experience

Career Stats
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Industries

  • Consulting (20%)
  • Financial Services (15%)
  • Retail (15%)
  • Technology (10%)
  • Higher Education (5%)
  • Energy (5%)
  • Government (5%)
  • Manufacturing (5%)
  • Media & Entertainment (5%)
  • Non-Profit (5%)
  • Transportation & Logistics (5%)
  • Other (5%)

Concentrations

Curriculum - One-Year MBA Program
ranking-mba-2026

Why Lehigh?

At Lehigh, you’ll find the right balance of academic rigor, personal support, and practical experience that sets our one-year MBA apart.

A Campus Designed for Focus and Opportunity

Nestled in Pennsylvania’s scenic Lehigh Valley, our beautiful, serene campus provides the ideal setting to step away from daily distractions and fully commit to your studies. Located just a short drive from New York City and Philadelphia, students benefit from both a peaceful environment and access to major business hubs. With the Lehigh Valley’s own rapid growth and strong university connections to leading companies, you truly get the best of both worlds.

A Close-Knit Community

Small class sizes, accessible faculty, and a dedicated mentoring team mean you won’t just be another face in the crowd. You’ll form strong connections with professors, advisors, and peers who are invested in your success.

Learning With Real-World Impact

Intensive coursework in quantitative methods, accounting, and leadership prepares you for advanced study in analytics, AI, finance, operations, and strategy. Career Readiness and AI Readiness co-curriculum further develop your professional skills and technological fluency from day one.

One-Year MBA Admissions Requirements

Wondering how to apply to our one-year MBA program? Here’s what you need to know:

Application Deadlines

  • Round One: October 15
  • Round Two: January 15
  • Round Three: April 1 (this is the final deadline for international applicants residing outside the U.S.)
  • Final Deadline: May 1

What You Need to Apply

  • Completed application
  • Essay
  • Resume or CV
  • GMAT or GRE test score (optional)
  • Transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation (2)
  • Admissions interview
  • Demonstrated English proficiency

FAQs

When is the final day to apply?

For U.S.-based students, the final application deadline is May 1. For international applicants residing outside the U.S., the deadline to apply is April 1.

When do classes start?

Orientation for the 1-MBA takes place in late June, with classes beginning at the end of the month or in early July.

Are there any undergraduate requirements to apply?

The program is designed so that there are no prerequisites for enrolling in the 1-MBA.

For non-business undergraduate majors, Lehigh University offers leveling training sessions in areas such as: Accounting, Finance, Economics, and Statistics to serve as a preparatory training prior to students taking these courses.

How long does the degree take to complete?

Full-time MBA students can expect to complete the program in 11 months, with the option to extend to 18 months if they choose to pursue an internship.

Are scholarships available?

Scholarships are offered for all full-time programs. Please see our Scholarships and Financial Aid  page  for more information.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Request more information about the 1-MBA to discover what this degree can do for your career.

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