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Three Things To Make Sure An Online MBA Program Has Before Enrolling

2010-05-17

Getting an advanced degree is increasingly important in today's job market. It may be required to move up in a company. Even though it may be a requirement, it is often impractical for an individual to take time off to pursue an MBA. A combination of family responsibilities and no university within commuting distance cause many non-traditional students to turn to online MBA classes. Online education makes it possible for many to achieve success that, before the Internet, would have been only a dream. There are certain features an MBA program should have.

Accreditation

One of the most important things to check about a perspective MBA program is whether or not it is accredited. Any program selected should, at least, be regionally accredited. This will rule out any diploma mills and guarantee that the diploma will be recognized. Accreditation is meaningful to potential employers. If the student has any idea that a doctorate may be in his future, be certain that the MBA program is accredited through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. This is the supreme accrediting association for business degrees.

Course Schedule

It is paramount that the course schedule is understood before enrolling in online MBA classes. This is especially true for the working student whose time for classes is limited. There are several types of schedules to be aware of. The asynchronous format is the easiest for the working student but requires the most discipline. With this type of format courses can be done at any time, so it is easy to work around a busy schedule. The streaming online format is more rigid. The courses are streaming in real time, and the student must log in a particular time to take the class. The last type of course schedule is one that has a residency requirement. Students must travel to the campus for a specified period of time (usually a weekend or a week). This residency requirement is peculiar to major universities offering online degrees and isn't a requirement of universities that are strictly online.

Opinions

The MBA program should be held in high esteem. Check the Internet for reviews by students who have graduated from the program, and read carefully what they have to say. Don't be surprised to find a bad review or two. A flood of bad reviews, on the other hand, raises a red flag. Check with local employers and others in the business community. Ask what their impression of the program is. If they have an unfavorable impression of the program you hope to enroll in, ask them which program they recommend.