Articles

What To Expect From Online MBA Degree Coursework

2010-10-07

In response to the growing number of students wanting to work while earning an MBA degree, schools and colleges have developed online programs to mirror or closely match traditional programs. Therefore, online MBA coursework is no easier than what's required in brick-and-mortar schools.

An MBA degree program teaches students basic business skills such as leadership, marketing, human resource management and accounting. Depending on the school, however, some MBA programs focus on specific aspects of business or permit students to choose a concentration for their studies. Program focuses and concentrations vary, but are often oriented toward computer use in business, international business and finance.

Many prospective students view online MBA coursework as an easier route to obtaining an MBA degree. While the length and topic of a particular course may be the same online as it is when taught on campus, this belief does not take into consideration all studying is independent. It takes extreme dedication and an ability to self-teach for an online class to take less time than it would otherwise. Even though an online MBA program may require less face-to-face time, students are often required to log on for lectures to accompany their independent study. Moreover, online MBA degree classes may be offered year-round, requiring students to study through summer break. This, too, adds additional time and effort to earning the degree online.

Online classes cover the same topics and usually have the same requirements as those taught in person. Students are required to complete midterm and final examinations. Some examinations must be completed on the school's campus so that they may be proctored.

Moreover, online MBA coursework contains the same internship, and thesis or composite project requirements. Therefore, an online MBA degree cannot usually be completed entirely online.

Students must fulfill a minimum number of hours at a local business or related company. Work done at a student's current place of employment does not satisfy internship requirements. As with most master's degree programs, MBA students must complete a thesis or a final project prior to graduation. A thesis requires extensive research and defense before a group of program professors. A composite project also requires extensive research, but potentially also means that a student must collaborate with other students about the project. Most final projects are presented before an audience of students or professors.

Because schools have made online MBA coursework the same as what is offered through traditional on-campus programs, the degree is no easier to obtain merely because it is offered through the Internet. However, the ease of attendance and affordability of such MBA programs may make them an enticing option for many students.