“Perennially ranked at the top for online MBA programs,” Indiana University Bloomington Kelly School of Business is “the only top tier program that was affordable and value-adding.” This top-ranking program offers flexible schedules, “a number of networking opportunities,” and devoted professors who “get it.” Professors use “quality materials,” give “personalized attention,” and are able to keep online students just as engaged as if they were physically sitting in the classroom. One student says, “The fact that the online faculty are the same professors who teach the in-person MBA courses is a huge plus, as the online program directly mirrors the physical program.”
Online MBA students agree that IU professors are not “anything less than exceptional.” “There are times when I am actually overwhelmed by how organized my professors are. They are always on top of things, and the quality of teaching is exceptional,” says a student. They are able to break down concepts using “real-world business examples.”
School administration runs “a world-class on-campus week” and provides outstanding overall support to students. Another unique feature of the program is the option for students to earn dual master’s degrees (MBA/MS). Though the majority of students who attend Kelley’s MBA program already have a background in business, one student states, “This was especially attractive to me, since I don’t have a business undergraduate degree.”
While completing MBA coursework online “certainly puts time at a premium,” Kelley’s program definitely allows for “maximum flexibility without compromising on quality.” At first glance, students may find the “rigorous coursework” daunting, however, the program is definitely made to accommodate adults with occupational and/or familial priorities. Students are able to watch recorded lectures, study and complete work at their convenience, and still, find time for personal interests.
“It truly is a program designed for people who have demanding full-time jobs and need to be able to manage their own time,” says a student. Online classmates speak highly of one another, calling themselves “driven,” as well as “bright,” “professional,” and well-respected in their fields. Although they are highly ambitious, they are also “team players.”
There are many credible online MBA programs offered by accredited universities and business schools. Here are some things to look for when considering an online MBA program:
- Accreditation: Make sure the program is accredited by a recognized accrediting agency. Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain academic standards and that your degree will be recognized by employers and other institutions.
- Reputation: Look for programs offered by well-respected universities and business schools with a history of providing quality education. Check the school's rankings in reputable publications such as U.S. News & World Report or the Financial Times.
- Faculty: Look for programs that have experienced faculty members who have both academic and industry experience. Check the faculty profiles on the program's website to see their credentials and experience.
- Curriculum: Look for programs that offer a rigorous curriculum that covers the fundamental areas of business, such as finance, accounting, marketing, and management. Check the course descriptions to make sure the program covers topics that are relevant to your career goals.
- Flexibility: Look for programs that offer flexibility in terms of scheduling, course delivery, and program length. Make sure the program fits with your schedule and allows you to balance work, family, and other commitments.
Student Support: Look for programs that offer robust student support services, such as academic advising, career counseling, and access to resources such as online libraries and research databases.
Some examples of credible online MBA programs include the programs offered by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Indiana University Bloomington, and the University of Southern California. These programs are accredited, well-respected, and offer a rigorous curriculum taught by experienced faculty.
Average Undergrad GPA:3.37
Work Experience:10.0 years
Applicants:2,951
Acceptance Rate:36%
Average Age:33
Online Enrollment:1544
Total Tuition and Fees:$78,246
Average GMAT Score:652
Average Starting Salary:$125,140