How is an online M.B.A. Viewed versus classroom?
I'm curious how people view an online program versus one that require face to face (or hybrid) attendance. So many seem to offer the same curriculum online-what's you opinion/experience?
Answers (16)
Vincent V.
Breakthrough Coach | Global Ambassador at Shaklee Independent Distributor
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I recommend the book version: The Personal MBA. A great refresher and a potential big-time money saver for someone who wants to pursue a more serious career.
Links:
William T. C.
Facebook Marketing Expert with 1,100,000 Fans
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Classroom only. Too many easy to bonus online programs.
The MBA degree is worthless in itself.
Brijendra C.
Human Resources at Dodsal E & C Pte Ltd
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No good
dont go for it
Yes.. classroom is best place to study.
Sahar A.
Diversity& Inclusion|Leadership training|Social Media Marketing|Social Media Training|Public Speaker|Culture Competence
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What really matters is what school/ college is offering it ans is it accredited
Judy H.
*Exp. CEO & Speaker *Leadership Development Specialist *Mentor & Coach to SMEs *Writer, Trainer and E-learning Designer
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Hi Jason,
If the University has a strong reputation and you can do a blend of online and face to face learning with them, even better. Many people will have an opinion, but it might be worth seeking the expertise and advice of some of the executive recruiters here on LI, who see first hand the opinions of decision makers in this area.
While I am not sure why online MBA's get a bad rap simply because one is not physically present, many recruiters seem to be asked by hiring managers to focus on the classroom experience from a good school. While I am sure some online masters programs have more credibility than others, I do hope this changes, as distance learning become more important for those seeking career advancement.
Hakan T.
Works on the psychology of decision-making and behavioral economics
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Classroom. You have to meet face to face with other MBA students. Business is all about networking.
Lisa A. N.
Writer - Blogger - Telephone Operator
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I had a relative who chose a classroom MBA and has done very well. He decided against an online program.
Roy W.
Director of Technical Marketing at RAVE LLC
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It completely depends on the program. There are plenty of degree mills out there that will give you a certificate that is worth what is printed on it. There are also plenty of reputable programs that offer high quality online or hybrid education opportunities including MBA, that are every bit as good as full time programs.
I went to the University of Florida MBA program, which was a hybrid online/face to face program. It was superb and one of the highest ranked values in an MBA program. Information on that program can be found at the links... #1 online MBA, top 5 value MBA.
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Victor W.
IT Professional, Photographer, Social Media Marketer.
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Online degrees are still viewed with suspicion, and I believe it is mostly due to the fact that it is 'different'.
Five years ago online programs were met with much disdain in the education industry; today, very prestigious schools offer online-only programs - Boston University, USC, Colorado State, and many others. Drexel even offers a completely online MBA, yet the final degree nowhere stipulates "online".
School reputation is important, of course, but you must also realise that some schools have a very good reputation locally yet are still considered "second tier". For example, Wilmington University here in Delaware has a terrific reputation locally, but pales in comparison to Drexel. Mileage will vary depending on what your plans are after the fact.
Personally, I am just finishing my first class in an online MBA in a low tier school and have so far been impressed. It is a different learning and teaching experience, and the incentive needs to be on the student to step up. Personally, I can vouch that I am learning; whether any one else views it as useful remains to be seen.
If an on-line program effectively uses remote communication / seminars and conference calls, as many business leaders today have to employ as part of the global nature of business, and complements the on-line aspect with engagement within the student's own community, (for example, producing a thesis that examines a specific approach to making a start-up company successful), then that type of program may very well replicate what the modern business world experiences.
Linda F.
Recruiting Specialist at RFT Staffing
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It really doesn't matter to me if it's online or in school per se, but it is EXTREMELY important that the school is accredited and has a good reputation. Realistically, I don't care of you receive an online MBA from U of M. The school is outstanding (I didn't go there, so it's not a shameless plug) so either way, I know you received a great education.
In addition, if the school is not accredited, or has a poor reputation, it would make me quesiton your judgement. Did you do your homework before choosing that school? Why did you choose that school? What was your thought process? These things are much more telling for me as well.
Bottom line, make an intgelligent, educated decision about where to get your MBA. It could make the difference as to whether or not it was worth it for you!
Knowledge is always good, but from a comparison basis, I wouldn't take an online one seriously. Just interviewed a guy from Western Governors - respect that he did it, but it isn't 'an MBA' in mine or anyone I know's book.
Do it in the classroom at the best school you can get into, or forget it.
Focus your energy on your career and current job.
Angel L R.
Education Management | Marketing | Nonprofit | Blogger | Looking to make a permanent move back to Central Florida.
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@Jason, from my experience a complete online degree is not worth as much if you do it with a brick and mortar school. It is something nice to have and may get your foot in the door, but it doesn't guarantee anything.
People don’t offer you opportunities because they somehow feel you deserve it. They do so because they have a problem and need someone to help them resolve it. Plain and simple, right? Don’t ever forget that! Again, you could be the most educated person in the world with the best pedigree, but it doesn’t mean you’re entitled to anything.
I had to learn that lesson after graduate school. The economy has made it very hard for advance professionals to climb the ladder. Now you have what use to be mid-level positions within organizations are now considered entry-level. What that means the value of a higher degree doesn't mean as much in terms of opportunities for advancement.
Two books that brought focus and clarity to my career development in the current market:
1. Get The Job You Want, Even When No One's Hiring: Take Charge of Your Career, Find a Job You Love, and Earn What You Deserve.
2. "Headhunter" Hiring Secrets: The Rules of the Hiring Game Have Changed . . . Forever!
At the time I started to read these books, I was not actively seeking employment. I was however worried about the economy and lack of opportunities that would be out there after graduate school. What I got from them is basically a new mentality towards career development and advancement. I basically changed my approach and strategy of how I looked at at my career progression.
So, what I learned so far is to create a personal brand. Everyone is an expert in something. Create your own platform to share your knowledge with others. Put yourself out there, and you'd be surprised at the doors that could open up. One way that helped me with my personal brand was to develop my own blog and podcast about my personal growth journey. If you get a chance check it out and let me know your thoughts. http://fromjaystobrooks.com/
If you ever want to lend your expertise to my blog with an article. Let me know.
Good Luck,
-Angel L. Ramos
