Online MBAs: Weighing the Pros and Cons
The current ever changing state of the economy and new avenues being opened every day calls for a new set of business administration graduates that will be prepared for this new reality. Current online MBA programs offer formations across industries, may it be healthcare, finance or project management and offer opportunities for students to work in their preferred field. Good accredited MBA programs offer students the possibility to work in a variety of sectors and online programs allow students to follow their formation wherever they want at their own pace.
However, before you decide to go for an online MBA, it’s very important to weigh the pros and cons to see if it’s really the good decision for you. In this article, we’re going to explore the advantages and disadvantages of an online MBA so you can make the right choice.
Pros
Flexibility: one of the most obvious advantages of online MBAs is the flexibility they offer their students. Whether you’re a working professional, single mom or a new student, online MBAs allow you to work around your schedule and follow the course at your own pace. Furthermore, some institutions allow you to combine both online and offline courses so you can get the best formation possible.
Budget friendly: traditional MBAs can be very expensive, and online MBAs allow students to significantly cut the price of tuition. Online universities have lower overhead costs, allowing them to pass savings onto their students. Not only that, but since most manuals are digital, you won’t have to pay as much for study materials. In addition, the content of a regular MBA is easily transferable online, so you pretty much get the same level of education a regular MBA student would get.
Go as you please: another great advantage of online MBAs is that they allow students to study at their own pace. You can either extend your formation over the usual 2 years it takes to complete a traditional MBA or take one of the many online accelerated courses available online. In some cases, these accelerated programs allow students to complete their MBA in as little as 18 months.
Cons
Online formation can be alienating: for some people, college is a chance to socialize and enjoy college life. Unfortunately, you won’t get much of that with an online formation. Most of the courses will be taken alone, even though in most cases universities offer a combination of online and offline courses. But the amount of in class formation will depend on the particular program, so be aware of what that proportion is before you choose a particular class.
It’s easier to get sidetracked: while getting an online MBA can often shorten the time you’ll have to spend to get your degree, it’s easier to give sidetracked since many will be juggling school and their other occupation. The lack of structure, which can be an advantage to some, can actually work to your detriment depending on your personality.
All in all, the advantages of an online formation cannot be neglected, especially for professionals. Online MBAs allow students to follow their formation at their pace and are being increasingly recognized by major organizations. Online and offline formations have their own sets of advantages and drawbacks, the key is to choose the best option according to your needs, budget and expectations.
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