Weigh Your Options: The Pros and Cons of Getting Your MBA Online
(full story below)
By Dixie Somers
An MBA degree is an advanced degree that can help you further your career and increase your earning power.
With modern advances in online technologies, professionals who are serious about earning a Master of Business Administration can now network with other professionals while completing a reputable MBA program during their free time.
If you are debating whether or not an online MBA program is right for you, it's important to familiarize yourself with the advantages and the drawbacks of these modern programs.
Weigh the pros and the cons below, and pursue your degree the way that's best for you.
PROS
Flexibility
When you take a traditional MBA program, you must attend courses when the courses are being held. While most counselors will work with you so that you can register for classes that can fit into your busy schedule, you're still restricted when you take on-campus courses.
By taking an online MBA program, you can complete coursework around your work schedule without having to commute to a campus. Your schedule will open up much more when you aren't at the mercy of your teacher's schedule or the schedule of the university—you'll be on your own schedule.
Cost
Another benefit of an online MBA is that the tuition for online programs is lower than the tuition for traditional programs.
This can be a big help if you are still paying off loans from your undergrad, or aren't able to work as much while trying to get your masters. If you find that your financial situation isn't ideal after you graduate, the cost of online classes can be very appealing.
Variety of Programs
Many people have the misconception that online classes are only for generals or easy elective classes. However, you really can get your entire degree online.
This could be helpful if the schools that are near you don't offer the program you want, or don't have a good MBA program.
With online classes, you'll have a lot less fees, and won't have to worry about things like out of state tuition.
If there is an online program for a school in another state, you could stay at home and “attend” that school by participating in their online MBA program.
The schools in your state or area might not offer the exact program you want, or might not be up to your standards. You will have a lot more choices in the world of online classes.
CONS
The Balancing Act
Juggling your family life, the house work, your career, and your classwork can be difficult, but you must consider some of the common disadvantages of taking online college courses.
If you learn best with person-to-person interaction, you may not benefit from the online lectures and discussions that are common with an online MBA program.
Because a major benefit of earning an MBA is networking with professionals in various fields, you could miss out on building strong relationships.
Getting Proper Recognition
Another common complaint is that online programs are not always recognized by employers.
When you're comparing different online MBA programs, make sure that the program that you apply for is accredited by a body that the US Department of Education recognizes.
You will need to take a step back so that you can decide if online grad school is right for you. Are you self-disciplined and motivated or do you need someone to push you?
Are you a visual learner? Do you have kids or a full-time job? These are all factors you'll need to consider to ensure you make the right decision for your future.
This article was written by Dixie, a freelance writer who loves writing for business, finance, women's interests, and home and family. Dixie lives in Arizona with her husband and three daughters who are the inspiration for her writing. Students who are seeking to lower the costs associated with an MBA should consider the impact of online classes on tuition. Some students who are working to get their GARD Masters of Business Continuity Online have chosen to do their masters online because they don't want to pay out of state tuition on top of all the other expenses that actually going to school requires.
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