A quality online MBA must replicate the classroom experience through live discussions and interactive sessions that foster engagement. | iStock/Getty Images
As people move up in their careers, they often feel an MBA would be a springboard to greater responsibilities. In the past, distance education and part-time MBAs were an option.
As online education gains momentum, selecting the right online MBA program has become a critical decision for working professionals. In a recent webinar hosted by The Hindu, Prof. Joshy Jacob, Chairperson of the Blended Post Graduate Programme in Management at IIM Ahmedabad, and Prof. M. Thenmozhi, Head of the Department of Management Studies at IIT Madras, shared valuable insights on choosing an online MBA that delivers real career impact.
The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst in driving digital education forward. According to Prof. Jacob, three major shifts have increased the popularity of online MBA programs.
Technological advancements have improved virtual platforms, enabling interactive and immersive learning experiences. Faculty members have also adapted to digital education, enhancing its effectiveness. Additionally, there has been greater social acceptance, with online degrees now recognized as credible by employers and industry professionals.
An MBA is not just about theoretical knowledge; it is a transformational experience that combines skill development and behavioral training. Both professors outlined critical factors professionals should evaluate before enrolling in an online MBA program. A quality online MBA must replicate the classroom experience through live discussions and interactive sessions that foster engagement. Case-based learning should encourage real-world problem-solving, and collaborative group projects must enhance peer-to-peer learning.
To maximize value, an online MBA should integrate real-world applications. Prof. Thenmozhi emphasized that students should seek programs that encourage problem-solving through industry-specific case studies, equip them with AI-driven decision-making and data analytics skills, and provide cross-functional business exposure to enhance strategic thinking.
Flexibility is key for working professionals, but structure is equally important. The best online MBA programs offer a blend of virtual and in-person sessions for comprehensive learning, industry mentorship and networking opportunities, and a cohort-based structure to enhance collaboration and accountability.
While fully online MBAs offer convenience, blended programs, which incorporate both online and offline learning, provide a more holistic experience. Prof. Jacob highlighted that some courses, such as leadership training and negotiations, are best learned through in-person interactions. Prof. Thenmozhi added that immersive campus sessions enhance peer networking, making blended MBAs a preferred choice for many professionals.
For professionals looking to re-enter the workforce after a career break or transition to a managerial role, an online MBA can be a strategic move. Prof. Thenmozhi advised candidates to define their career objectives before selecting a specialization, choose programs with strong alumni networks for better career prospects, and opt for industry-relevant courses to develop skills that align with future job market trends. A common concern is the low completion rate of online courses. Prof. Jacob noted that fully online, self-paced programs tend to have lower completion rates, whereas structured blended programs see completion rates as high as 90%.
Factors that improve completion rates include faculty engagement in live sessions, group-based learning and peer motivation, and clear deadlines with structured coursework.
With the abundance of options available, professionals should assess programs based on the quality of faculty and curriculum, experiential learning and peer engagement opportunities, and flexibility and industry relevance. Online MBAs can be powerful career accelerators, provided they replicate the interactive, experiential, and application-based learning of traditional programs. Whether for career growth, industry transition, or skill enhancement, choosing the right online MBA can make all the difference.
Published – February 21, 2025 06:01 pm IST