The Online MBA: How Does it Work?

Online degrees don’t have the stigma they once did. In fact, many universities are pouring money into their online degree programs because it’s such a practical option for so many people looking to go back to school. What’s not to like about it? It’s cheap. It’s convenient. But when you’re aiming for an MBA, how does it work? Does it differ at all from an “in-the-classroom” MBA?

Many students worry about two aspects of the online MBA: its accreditation system and whether or not their degree will specify they received an online degree as opposed to an in-person degree. In general, MBAs require 36 credits, usually divided into two years: one for generalized business study, the other for specialized study. The online MBA works no different. A slight alteration, however, is discussion in the classroom is replaced by forums and message boards through the Internet. In terms of your degree, most degrees don’t actually say where the degree was obtained. According to “OnlineMBADegrees.net,” the only way a potential employer would know you received an online degree was if you received it from a school that only functioned online.

Students also wonder if it takes longer to complete an online MBA versus that of an MBA at a university. Actually, students can finish their degrees in less than the two years it normally takes to do so in person since so much of the work you do in the online degree program is self-motivated.

Another major concern about the online MBA is whether it assists candidates in increasing their salaries like traditional MBAs are advertised to do. According to “elearners.com,” online MBA degree candidates hold all sorts of positions after graduation – including vice presidents and CEOs. The GMAC averaged in 2005 that all MBA graduates (online and off!) could expect to earn an average of $106,000.00. Wanting an even better bet?

What are some top schools to get an MBA from? Check out MacQuil and Onlinembaguide.

In summary: an online MBA is no more legitimate than an “in-person” MBA. Pursue the MBA program that’s right for you.