What’s a degree that employers love and students can’t get enough of?
An MBA – the world’s most popular graduate management degree.
What most graduates aspire towards happens to be a degree in business and commerce.
Why? Well, it’s a catalyst for soft skills, like leadership, and it paves way for aspiring entrepreneurs in launching their own business.
If that’s not the target, then entering the high-rise corporate scene with an attractive income is also a great life.
Not to mention, there’s opportunities galore.
How convenient is an online MBA?
Just because it’s an online MBA programme, doesn’t mean there’s leniency in the curriculum. It is, in fact, just as demanding as that of its on-campus equivalent.
Professors merely adapt the course material for online delivery.
Technology makes it possible to study anywhere, providing potential students with a wide range of appealing educational opportunities.
With an MBA from a remote learning programme, you can attend out-of-state universities without having to worry about the cost or inconvenience of moving, and you can set your own pace for learning.
How does it operate?
Moodle or Blackboard are platforms used to integrate tools, like web conferencing and class lectures, into the coursework.
Students use the system to access e-textbooks and turn in assignments.
While lectures are flexible, as in asynchronous, synchronous sessions need attendance in real time. Asynchronous communication can also be used to accommodate different time zones.
Proctoring fees may apply for both in-person and virtual testing options.
In terms of grading, tests can be graded manually or automatically by instructors, and group assignments are frequently divided for individual completion.
Pros
- Flexibility cost-saving
- Expands knowledge
- Career advancement
- Builds managerial and interpersonal skills
- High salary potential
- Job security
- Strengthens resume
- Worldwide recognition of your credentials
Cons
Networking opportunities
- Since an online MBA does not require in-person meetings, networking will be more difficult to establish.
- Since online MBAs do not draw top talent, networks will also be weaker
Tough to take seriously
- Even if it’s affiliated with a respectable university, not many people tend to take it seriously
Is there an acceptance toward an online MBA programme?
In some quarters, there is still opposition to online education.
But the fact that more people are enrolling into these programmes is one of several indicators that online education is becoming more and more accepted by the general public.
In 2015, for the second consecutive year, the majority of online MBA programmes – up to 57% – reported an increase in their application volumes, up from 51%, according to a report by the Graduate Management Admission Council.
Likewise, The Economist noted a rise in the number of applications – an online MBA programme in a certain school was quadrupling applications since its launch in 2015.
How do you stay driven while completing an online MBA programme?
- Time management: Enrolled students must be adept at juggling their personal lives, careers, and coursework. A well-planned study schedule can do the trick
- Remain driven: It can be challenging to maintain motivation when teachers and classmates aren’t there in person. So, you have to bring your own incentive strategy
- Tech skills: Proficiency in technology is essential for online learning. It’s standard practice to have video calls, participate in online forums, and turn in work electronically
- Lonely at times: Although some online programmes offer virtual events to socialise, others may feel a little isolated
- Quality matters: Keep in mind that there are differences in the caliber of online MBA programmes. Select a respectable school that offers a programme that aligns with your professional objectives
- Tasks: Get ready for a rigorous workload. Online MBA programmes are no exception to the rule that they are rigorous. You will be occupied with readings, group projects, and assignments
- Adaptability: A major factor is how well you adjust to digital learning. While some people miss face-to-face communication, others flourish in an online setting
Wondering why online MBA programmes are becoming more and more popular?
Well, think about it this way – it is accessible, affordable and recognised worldwide.
But the drawbacks do tend to cast doubt on the breadth and reliability of the networking opportunities.
So, how do you decide if it’s worthwhile?
That truly depends on your motivation, flexibility, and selection of the programme, to be honest.
It’s not a secret that this road untraveled might be bumpy. But the reward comes to those who strategically negotiate its complexities.
The possibility of improved abilities, international contacts, and a launching pad to the top levels of the business world is the dream, right?
The future of education is here. So, how would you go about it as this digital revolution reshapes academia?