Traditional in-person MBA programs involve attending a brick-and-mortar classroom or boardroom during the week. Modern business schools also offer online MBA programs that allow you to earn your degree remotely. Here’s an overview of how in-person and online executive MBAs compare:
What Is an Online Executive MBA?
Executive MBAs are part-time degree programs designed for working professionals. If you have a full-time job, you may not have the time to attend a classroom and meet the daily course requirements. Online MBA programs give you the flexibility to work and earn your master’s degree. The classes allow individuals to access study materials and resources at their convenience. No weekly meetings and mandatory live classes are involved, but assignments, projects, and exams will have deadlines.
Everything, from application to orientation, assignments, and exams, is completed online. You can also customize your study and complete coursework around your schedule. This option suits distance learners who need to earn an MBA without relocating. Some schools offer accelerated programs to help you complete your course faster than traditional MBAs. Other benefits include online networking and collaborations in virtual group projects.
What Is an In-person Executive MBA?
In-person executive MBAs provide the same academic and career opportunities as online EMBAs. The main difference is in-person MBA programs are taught on campus and require commuting to attend weekly classes. In-person programs give you access to state-of-the-art facilities and immersive classroom experiences. You get to meet professors and peers face-to-face and attend networking events organized by your school.
These programs also feature engaging on-campus activities, student clubs, libraries, career support, and mentorship programs. Some programs partner with local companies to offer internships. The courses are structured but are more flexible than full-time MBAs. Business schools also offer videoconferencing and live classes. You can download coursework material and recorded streams but must attend the weekly in-person classes.
How Do In-person and Online EMBAs Compare?
In-person and online executive MBA programs go through vigorous accreditation processes to meet education quality standards. Both programs also have similar admission requirements. The main distinction is in attendance, which affects learning costs, course delivery, and learning pace. If you live out of state, commuting to a physical classroom can quickly become expensive.
Online MBAs don’t require traveling to the campus or maintaining campus amenities, so they tend to be more affordable. You also won’t have to reduce working hours, which may happen when you have to leave your job to attend a class. In-person programs offer networking opportunities and personal connections. Distance learners taking online classes don’t have access to as many activities and networking events as on-campus students. In-person programs also give you more time with the professor and peers, allowing you to build stronger connections.
Which MBA Program Should I Choose?
Both in-person and online executive MBAs are tailored toward working professionals. Unlike full-time MBAs, these programs don’t require on-campus residence and weekday classes. The classes may be scheduled for evenings and weekends, allowing you to balance your studies, work, and other personal engagements. In-person MBAs are great if you live close to a campus and have time to attend brick-and-mortar classes.
Online EMBAs are ideal if you’re looking for a flexible program that can fit your schedule. These programs give you full control of the schedule, allowing you to study and learn during your assigned time. If you’re a distance learner, online EMBAs allow you to earn your master’s degree right where you live. You can also access virtual networking opportunities and seminars.
Get Started With Online MBA Programs Today
Online MBAs have made it possible to earn a master’s degree without attending a traditional classroom. You can study from anywhere in the world and earn a recognized degree that may increase your hiring, earning, and promotion potential. Contact a business school today to get started with the online MBA program application.
