By Alexis Sam
Since the start of the pandemic, there’s been a surge of online MBA courses and other college courses that can provide high-quality education to a number of students. However, not all students take online courses into consideration. This is a shame, since online courses can provide a wealth of opportunities at a fraction of the cost. There are even Master of Business Healthcare programs online, showing just how versatile online programs can be.
The decision of whether to attend an online or in-person MBA course is a personal one that depends on your learning style, schedule, and other factors. Here are some things to consider when making your decision, and some common FAQs that can help you when deciding whether to attend in-person courses for MBA or online courses.
Do you learn better in a traditional classroom setting or do you prefer the flexibility of online learning?
Evidence shows that students that learn online might be a bit more distracted than their peers who receive in-person education. However, if you’re a grown adult and have the discipline to sit still and take in the information presented by an instructor online, you might be able to fair well in online courses.
Consider your learning style, and whether you prefer to be taught in class or have the discipline and ability to learn online. For many students with disabilities, online courses also offer accommodations to help you learn just like you would in an in-person class.
Do you have the time to commit to attending regular classes, or would online learning be a better fit for your schedule?
Online learning offers flexible options for learning, allowing you to stay in the comfort of your home while taking the best college courses have to offer. If you don’t have the time to attend regular classes, don’t push yourself by enrolling in an in-person program. The costs of commuting can also add up, with many students spending around $900 to commute to and from class. This is especially true for students that live far from campus.
If you’re on a tight budget, stretched to your limit due to stress, and need to save time while commuting, it’s best to consider taking an online MBA course instead.
What is your budget for pursuing an MBA?
In-person courses tend to be more expensive than online courses. NBC News recently reported that around half of students attending private colleges for their MBA had to borrow around $100,000 to pay for their education! Instead of attending an in-person or private college, it’s best to consider online courses offered by accredited institutions.
Online courses are often done in fewer hours, and also allow you the flexibility to work while you go to school. When it comes to paying for your education, anything you can do to offset debt, such as working while in school, becomes incredibly valuable.
Why do you want to pursue an MBA?
If you are looking for networking opportunities, an in-person course may be a better option if you’re uncomfortable speaking online with others. However, online courses still offer networking opportunities through online meetings, email, and other online methods. You can take advantage of the distance and learn how to craft a perfect email, helping refine your communication skills while networking. Don’t be afraid to ask your professors for help networking with outside sources as well.
Final Thoughts
The bottom line is that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether to attend an online or in-person MBA course. It’s important to consider your own needs and objectives before making a decision. However, online MBA courses can help you obtain a high-quality education at a fraction of the cost and a fraction of the time than a regular MBA course would.
