Why Choose an Online MBA Course Over a Full-Time Program?
In the past, online degrees sounded like science fiction or something an employer wouldn’t take seriously. This is no longer the case, especially with many professionals using distance learning to earn advanced degrees while retaining jobs they already have. Online degrees are standard fare and employers don’t look twice if you’ve earned your MBA online. Here are a few reasons why choosing an online MBA is just as good as a full-time program, and possibly even better.

When It’s Time to Get an MBA and How
A pressing question for many people about going back to school is how and when. The fact is that right now is an excellent time to earn an MBA degree. According to CNBC, this year 79 percent of companies expect to hire an MBA graduate, a ten percent increase from the previous year. Whether you’re looking for a new job or aiming to continue climbing the corporate ladder in your current company, watching trends like these are important.
The Pros and Cons of Online Versus Full-Time
MBA Crystal Ball chronicles the journey of one IT professional who attempted a full-time route, then an online program. He found that the online version was preferable in terms of both time and money. In fact, after going through the extensive, expensive, and time consuming process of simply applying to other programs, he stated he’d have rather used the resources to start his own business. Online degrees are also usually more cost effective and less expensive than full-time programs. For example, the online MBA program from California Baptist University Online is estimated to cost $24,000.
It’s All About Timing
Pursuing an MBA full-time at a university often means that you’re compromising a career you already have. Many professionals pursue an MBA because they’ve reached a point where continuing to ascend the corporate ladder is impossible without a certain title attached to their name. This is where earning an MBA general management online degree comes in and acts as a boon for many people. You can earn your MBA completely online while still maintaining your regular work schedule and responsibilities.
What You’ll Learn and Gain
The piece of paper that states you have an MBA is the endgame that allows you upward professional mobility. However, along the way, you’ll also learn indispensable skills that you can integrate into your already tried and true working habits. This includes refinements to presenting oral and written information, business writing and strategic planning, interpreting business statistics in the global marketplace, and more.
Overall, an MBA is an extremely useful asset for anyone in the business world. Whether you work in a specific field like IT or are general project management, having the degree gives you an additional, often essential qualification. Distance learning now makes earning the degree more accessible and affordable than ever. While the programs offered online certainly aren’t free, they’re much more flexible than something full-time. If you’re ready to dedicate the energy and funds to earn your MBA online, there’s never been a better time than now.
