Why Pursue an Online MBA Degree?
Why Pursue an Online MBA Degree?
Why Pursue an Online MBA Degree?

With a little experience in the world of management, it’s not unusual for professionals to seek out their next career step, whether that means moving into a management role at a corporation or entering the startup world. Taking the initiative and setting up this future can mean pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree.

The path to receiving an MBA has become more direct and accessible than ever before, with fully accredited programs offering 100% online courses. These programs can offer relevant education delivered online, potentially taking less time to complete than a traditional course schedule.

Professionals wondering if the online MBA route is right for them should consider three separate questions: What are the benefits of pursuing an MBA? What sets online programs apart? And, finally: What are the signs of a worthwhile MBA program?

The benefits of pursuing an MBA are really twofold. Actually having the degree may show potential employers that an individual has the skills and initiative to be a top performer. In addition, the classes that lead up to receiving the diploma deliver up-to-date and relevant information that will help students transform their personal problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

When a position is highly contested, there can be many well-qualified and intelligent candidates. Hiring managers need a way to determine which among the group has the skill set to succeed in business. An advanced degree such as an MBA can be a mark of uniqueness.

While the ability to add a new line to their resume is something many students may crave, the actual process of studying for the MBA is its own reward. When working with a top program, students can interact with real business experts, learning from individuals who have expertise to share. Gaining relevant and targeted knowledge about present-day industry conditions may prove extremely useful for anyone seeking a position in leadership.

The internet has revolutionized the way business is done, so it’s only appropriate that a forward-thinking business education is available online. Today’s digital programs have been developed with professionals’ real needs in mind, offering geographic freedom and a reprieve from the normal academic calendar.

The flexibility of online programs also extends to their ability to offer full-time or part-time schedules. The potential for individuals in any location, at any stage of their lives or careers, to fit the program into their schedules is infinite.

The one caveat with seeking an MBA online is that people shouldn’t settle for just any degree program. Excellence isn’t automatic, and there are a few exciting advantages that students can keep an eye out for.

For instance, faculty members who have current and relevant business expertise can bring a valuable perspective. Today’s corporate world is very different from the one that existed even 10 years ago lessons learned from industry insiders can provide a valuable complement to academic instruction.

Furthermore, degree programs that are divided into focused concentrations can help individuals gain knowledge and experience relevant to the roles where they see themselves excelling. The divisions can be by industry — such as finance or health administration — or focus on concepts that are relevant across sectors — including project management, cybersecurity and human resources.

Admissions requirements also vary depending on the school and program. Professionals may be interested to know that not every school calls for standardized tests such as the GMAT or GRE. It’s possible for driven and ambitious students to end up in such programs without taking the time and effort to study for exams, going right into studies focused on the future.

Each businessperson will chart a unique course over a career. Many of those paths could include an MBA from an online program. With numerous different subject matter concentrations existing within these offerings, and a huge amount of flexibility in where and when people can apply, enroll and graduate, there is more than one reason to seek an MBA.

Whether it’s to stand out to recruiters and hiring managers, stockpile skills for the foundation of a new company or seek knowledge that will help in a current role, individuals with a deep interest in business excellence can consider an online MBA program.

Maryville University’s online MBA program, complete with nine highly relevant concentrations and flexible schedules that can take as little as a year to complete, is one of the prominent options available today.

Sources
Maryville University, “Business Administration Program Features”

Maryville University, “Graduate Admission Requirements” 

Maryville University, “Master of Business Administration”