Learning online has become an accepted method of education, and advanced business programs are no exception as they make increased use of distance learning technology. Students are responding to the flexibility of online learning and the fact that they can get an M.B.A. online while keeping their careers on track.The content of distance learning programs covers a wide range. Many institutions offer hybrid degrees, where students can learn online and also in a traditional class setting.
Pros and Cons
Online M.B.A. programs offer many advantages, but they're not for everyone. While many distance learning students say they can enhance their careers without disrupting them or their personal lives, others stress the importance of face-to-face learning, especially for business students.
Networking and teamwork are critical factors of M.B.A. programs, which some say are lost in online education. On the plus side, online students report they learn greater networking and teamwork skills because they are not limited geographically. And in today’s global business setting, they learn to work well with online teams of people from diverse cultures.
Choosing Your Online School
However, despite the advantages of earning an M.B.A. online, you can’t depend on name recognition or price to determine which program suits your needs. Begin by checking an M.B.A. program’s accreditation. Anyone can set up an organization, call itself an accrediting agency, and accredit their bogus institution. Private, nongovernmental educational agencies have established standards to evaluate whether or not colleges and universities provide educational programs at basic levels of quality.
Accreditation: A Critical Detail
You should be aware of the difference between regional and national accrediting organizations and make sure reputable and genuine agencies recognize the program you are considering. There are several agencies and Web sites from which to get this information, such as the U.S. Department of Education, the Distance Education and Training Council, and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Curriculum
After determining the credibility of the program, investigate the curricula. M.B.A. programs have specific focuses. Does the program fit your needs and career plans? Look at the rate of degree completion and who is hiring the program’s M.B.A. graduates. Who is teaching the online courses? Do they have experience teaching online? Do they have the business and teaching credentials? What do previous students say about their experience? Just as with residency-based programs, potential students must thoroughly investigate the program before signing the first tuition fee.
Learn more about some of our featured M.B.A. online programs on our next article, or browse the rest of the site for campus-based b-schools offering online MBA programs
