What is a distance MBA program?
Definition of distance MBA:
An MBA program in which course content can be imparted without your physical presence in a class falls into the category of a distance MBA program.
Why would anyone choose an MBA distance program?
For experienced professionals experiencing an MBA education in another geographic location, the option of a full-time or part-time MBA program can be ruled out considering that at this time, you would be well settled with a family and take a break from work Or relocating to a new location for a year or two would bring several interruptions.
Executive MBA programs come with an abrupt price tag. You should also consider the additional costs involved in traveling to attend the sessions. This may not be a viable option for many.
Given that most other options are ruled out, the most practical as well as economical alternative for these people would be an MBA distance program.
What are the other advantages of a distance MBA program?
1. A program of this type would save you the opportunity cost you would have if you were unemployed for a year or two you would spend doing your full-time MBA.
2. If the case of an international MBA program, the cost of a distance MBA program would be much lower compared to a full-time MBA. Tuition rates would be lower; You would also be saving on the cost of living in an international location and other associated costs.
3. These programs usually have a flexible schedule. It allows you the convenience of completing course requirements while continuing your professional engagements. If you need a break due to your work pressure or account for any personal reason, usually your program should allow that. For example, at UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, you can complete the program in as little as 18 or 36 months.
4. Even if you change your location or have travel involved, it is possible to continue with your program.
5. You can apply the business concepts you learn in your workplace.
Dan Bursch, director of the online MBA at UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School is of the opinion that the number of online MBA program would continue to take control and evolve and it will not be long before you see half of the top 20 business schools that Have their MBA programs online.
What are the different types of distance MBA programs?
Prior to the emergence of online MBA programs, correspondence courses were popular where printed material would be delivered to you. This would require a lot of dedication on your part as self-study would be involved. In addition to course material, there may be some audio / video learning aids to aid the learning process. In the end, you would be assessed through assignments and exams. This mode of delivery is still in use in India.
Technology has revolutionized the delivery methods of distance education. MBA distance in the form of online MBA and MBA hybrid is gaining popularity with reputed b international schools offering these programs. The hybrid MBA programs differ from an online MBA as they would have some element on campus (multiple immersion experiences) in addition to online delivery of content used by online MBA programs.
What online delivery methods do these programs use?
Usually, the online MBA component consists of a mixture of asynchronous and synchronous course work.
Synchronous courses are the live sessions where you can interact with your teachers and classmates thus simulating a real classroom. For this, the participating teachers and students must be online at the same time. Through videoconferencing, live class sessions can be held with the teacher and several students who can participate and participate in the discussions. Class sizes are generally kept small to ensure a better learning environment.
Such sessions are held at periodic intervals, usually once (or more) per week covering the course work for that period. The only requirement to take such sessions is an Internet connection and a webcam. Such interactive sessions can also be recorded so you can view them at a later date.
There can also be one-on-one interactions with your instructor or feedback sessions.
Synchronous chat rooms allow multiple users to log in and have a text chat.
Asynchronous learning includes reading material, videos, presentations, case studies, assignments, tests that you can access at your convenience and complete at your own pace.
Depending on your preferences, there may be students who vote for synchronous sessions considering active participation and derived learning by sharing thoughts and experiences and the opportunity to get to know their classmates better.
Some may not be able to attend these live sessions due to their hectic work schedule.
On the other hand, there may be others who attest to the asynchronous courses as you are able to take without much pressure and these sessions are more relaxed and offer more time to think, understand diverse concepts, and form your opinion or come up with any response.
Even an online MBA program can have a residency component. These sessions can be held on campus or elsewhere so that students can mingle with their lot partners and form lasting relationships. So you need to check out where these sessions are held. Many students look forward to this opportunity to network with faculty, staff, classmates, and possibly alumni during these visits.
What are the admission requirements for an international distance MBA program?
International programs may offer multiple entries (either a fall and spring entry or rolling admissions) for the distance MBA program.
Admission requirements are not standardized and will vary depending on the school.
Although there is a perception that for an online MBA, no GMAT or GRE score is required, this can not be applied to all schools. A GMAT / GRE score is required for United States reputed b schools for candidates with lesser work experience. However, this requirement can be eliminated for professionals with more work experience. In addition, the rest of the components: MBA essays, letters of recommendation and interviews may also be required as part of the application process. International candidates may also have to take IELTS or TOEFL.
However, there are good distance MBA programs that have a mandatory minimum experience requirement, where no GMAT score should be submitted.
How do I know that the program I choose is a reputed one?
Check if the academic standards of the MBA program are of high quality. Here are a few things you can include in your checklist:
Is the course content for the online MBA the same as the full-time or part-time college program offered?
Do you offer the same degree / diploma as the full-time program?
What are the entry requirements to enter the program? A good program adheres to certain entry criteria in order for the best candidates to join.
Are the live sessions being taken by the same faculty as the full-time / part-time MBA?
Does b-school have an AACSB (Association for Advancement in Collegiate Business Schools) accreditation? This accreditation ensures that the university adheres to high quality standards and meets strict guidelines. According to the official AACSB website, less than 5% of the more than 16,000 schools worldwide awarding business titles have been awarded AACSB accreditation. These schools are the best choice among recruiters as well.
Other international accreditations include the AMBA (Association of MBAs), EQUIS - European Quality Improvement System and for Indian MBAs, you can look for DEC recognition.
What type of career services does the university provide?
What is the college graduation rate for the online MBA program?
What is the scope of the program in terms of networking opportunities offered? How does the university allow you to bond with your classmates and alumni?
You can check the distance online several MBA rankings to compare the various programs to find out what is in store for you.
How Good is an MBA Distance Program? Are there any disadvantages associated with it?
Networking is one of the top takeaways of an MBA program. A distance MBA program offers limited opportunities for networking. Check how much of the network your MBA program is able to offer. Make the best use of any residency opportunity. Live sessions also provide an interactive platform for you to get to know others and engage in conversations. Group projects also offer an excellent opportunity to have close interaction with peers and develop strong bonds.
Second, although there is a change in perception with good schools b offering distance MBA programs, there may be recruiters who may have their own biases and consider it of secondary importance.
What are MOOCs? How do they differ from an MBA distance program?
MOOC stands for "Massive Open Online Course". The content of the course, which includes video lectures, quizzes, individual and group assignments and exams, is available free of charge. You can design your own course structure and decide which course you want to take. However, unlike an MBA distance program that will grant you an MBA / diploma degree you can make use of, the MOOC does not confer an MBA degree. However, MOOCs are a good way to gain knowledge in several areas with which you are unfamiliar.
