A Master's of Business Administration, commonly known as an MBA, is a graduate degree that focuses on the application and theory of business principles. Not only do MBA programs cover fundamental topics in business management, they also place a necessary emphasis on critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership.
Some students go directly from their bachelor's degree program into MBA studies; most applicants, however, first spend several years gaining experience in the corporate world before moving on to graduate business study. Earning an MBA can have a significant impact on a professional's career. Most graduates find that their MBA helps them advance within their chosen industry and increase their salary. Other MBA students pursue the degree in order to change careers or transition into entrepreneurship.
Getting an MBA Online
Many prospective students know the benefits of earning an MBA but are hesitant to make the commitment due to time constraints. For people who need a bit more flexibility in their course schedule, online MBA programs offer a welcome alternative to the traditional university experience. These online programs offer students the best of both worlds: the flexibility to complete coursework on their own schedule combined with the same quality and prestige of a traditional MBA program.
Online MBA programs, like their traditional counterparts, usually require a bachelor's degree and an acceptable GMAT score for admission. Since many entrants come from the working world, professional experience is also taken into consideration.
Getting an MBA online will take time. The fastest they are typically completed is in 12-18 months, but that’s in an accelerated program. These will occupy all of your time and focus, so you probably won’t be able to keep working. The typical route, whether you’re taking online classes or a mix of online and in the classroom, will take about 3-5 years, depending on the university. While the traditional route takes a little longer, it will allow you to go to school part-time and work as much as you’d like.
Getting a Business Admin Degree Online
Even at the undergraduate level, many prospective students are faced with a conflict between their work obligations and a typical college class schedule. Fortunately, a large number of universities offer online options for accredited online master’s degree in business administration. While requirements differ from school to school, most online business degree programs have the same admission requirements as a traditional business administration program.
Earning an MBA degree online gives students a level of flexibility not found in typical programs. Coursework can be completed from any location, as long as students have access to the internet. Additionally, the freedom to complete coursework on their own schedule is a tremendous benefit to busy students who wouldn't otherwise be able to pursue a college degree.
Prospective students should examine programs carefully, however. Not all online MBA programs are created equal. Make sure that the program you are wanting to take is accredited by the proper educational agency. If you are unsure, the Department of Education has information on accredited institutions, accrediting bodies, as well as the recognition criteria and process. Typically, if an institution's traditional MBA program is accredited, the corresponding online MBA program will be, as well.
