Flexibility and Convenience: How Online MBA Courses are Reshaping Business Education
Flexibility and Convenience: How Online MBA Courses are Reshaping Business Education
The onset of COVID-19 bought major changes to our lives, impacting retail, grocery shopping and even education and business. The pandemic revealed our vital need for connection as a society and how the digital world can offer us some solutions.
Some call it convenience, others a matter of supply and demand, but there is no doubt that COVID-19 nudged us into a digitalised society, a phenomenon that has never been seen before. Even printed money is slowly becoming obsolete and is being replaced by cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology.
The business education sector has also seen a digital revolution in this stead. Given the worldwide lockdown, education and business have seen an unprecedented rise in online education. Online MBA courses are now revolutionising business education with their unmatched flexibility and convenience, reshaping how people pursue higher education.
In this blog, we will explore the advantages of online MBA programmes and their impact on business education. You will learn about what online MBAs are, who can apply for them, and tips on how you can benefit from this.
What is an Online MBA?
An online MBA (Master of Business Administration) is a distance learning option where you can pursue a prestigious business degree through online platforms.
Despite being completely online, this business degree does not compromise on quality and is recognised by key employers in the industry.
The Rise of Online MBA Programmes
Enrolment in online MBA courses has surged in the recent past with a 30% increase according to a recent study conducted by Statista in Singapore.
The reason for this is the convenience and flexibility online platforms offer in pursuing higher education. Online MBA courses help you obtain a reputed business degree without disrupting your career. This turns out to be a great motivator for students seeking higher education.
Why do Students Opt for Online MBAs?
Students opt for online MBAs for various reasons. The most popular reasons are the ability to continue working while studying, affordability compared to traditional on-campus programmes and the convenience of learning from home.
According to a study by Quacquarelli Symonds, an international higher education consultancy, 73% of MBA students prefer online programmes due to flexibility and work-life balance.
Benefits of Online MBA Courses
Online MBA programmes offer numerous benefits that cater to busy professionals. Firstly, the flexibility allows students to create personalised study schedules that align with their work commitments, reducing stress and enhancing the learning experience.
Secondly, online MBA courses erase geographical barriers, enabling you to access top-tier universities around the world at the click of a mouse. Also, online business degrees allow you to connect with renowned professors and industry experts, regardless of their location.
How online MBA courses are reshaping business education
Online MBA programmes are transforming business education in several ways:
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Flexibility: Balancing Work and Education
Top online MBA programmes excel in providing flexibility, allowing professionals to seamlessly balance work and education. Students can access course materials, lectures, and assignments at their convenience. This eliminates the rigid constraints of traditional class schedules.
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Convenience: Learn from Anywhere
One of the key benefits of online MBA courses is the ability to learn from anywhere. Whether at home, in the office, or while travelling, all that's needed is an internet connection to access the course and connect to their peers.
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Interaction and Collaboration
Contrary to common misconceptions, online MBA programmes encourage active connection and collaboration among students. Virtual discussion boards, live chat sessions, and video conferences provide ample opportunities for engaging with classmates, exchanging ideas, and building a professional network.
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Customisation and Personalisation
Online MBA courses offer a wide range of electives and specialisations, allowing students to tailor their education to align with their career goals. This customisation and personalisation can help you reach your goal of acquiring industry-specific skills and knowledge.
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Cost-Effective
These programmes often prove to be more cost-effective compared to traditional on-campus programmes. You can save on many expenses such as accommodation, commuting, and course materials.
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Career Advancement and Networking Opportunities
Online MBA programmes provide excellent avenues for career advancement and networking. You can connect with professionals from diverse industries and improve your professional network. Additionally, many online MBA programmes offer comprehensive career services and mentorship programmes too.
Tips for Choosing the Right Online MBA Programme
When selecting an online degree, consider the following key factors:
Accreditation: Ensure that the programme is accredited by recognised educational authorities.
Curriculum: Evaluate the curriculum to determine if it aligns with your career goals and interests.
Faculty expertise: Research the qualifications and expertise of the faculty members who will be teaching the courses.
Career support services: Explore the available career support services offered by the programme, such as job placement assistance and networking opportunities.
Authentic student reviews: Read authentic student reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the programme's quality and student satisfaction.
Course offerings: Compare programme features such as course delivery format, technological resources, and access to learning materials.
When Can You Pursue an Online MBA?
- Age criteria: Age criteria for online MBAs may vary depending on the institution. However, most programmes require candidates to be at least 21 years old. The average age of candidates in online MBA courses is 31, according to data from the London School of Business and Finance, UK.
- Eligibility criteria: Eligibility criteria may vary per institution. However, generally, a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution may be required along with work experience (often ranging from two to five years). You may also need to submit your test scores in the GMAT, GRE, or IELTS.
- Suitability: The suitability of an online MBA depends on your circumstances and commitments. Online programmes provide the flexibility to study while working. However, effective time management, a reliable internet connection, and self-discipline to stay on track with coursework and assignments are a must for the successful completion of the course.
Online MBA courses have transformed business education by offering flexibility, convenience, and a host of other benefits. Professionals can now access high-quality education, interact with peers, and expand their professional network, from the comfort of their home.
The online MBA course at LSBF X can prove affordable for you and is highly reputed across the business world. This can be the perfect choice for you to boost your career.
The London School of Business and Finance, Singapore (LSBF SG) ranks 5th in the top 50 colleges in Singapore for the MBA as seen on TC Global. LSBF X is an extension of LSBF SG and functions as the online portal for distance learning.
When age, distance, and accessibility are no longer a barrier, there is no reason not to be proactive in your professional growth and enrol in an online MBA today.
This article was written by Rebecca Paulraj and edited by Candice McDowell.
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