If you’re considering pursuing an MBA, choosing the right program is very important, especially if you plan to study online.
Your overall experience depends on whether or not you select a program that aligns with your goals, learning style, and budget.
We all know that there are many options available, therefore, before you choose a particular program, consider the following:
How to choose an online MBA program
To pick an MBA program, check for it’s:
1. Accreditation: Is the MBA program recognized?
Accreditation is the most important factor when choosing an online MBA.
An accredited MAB program means that your degree meets academic and industry standards.
Employers and other universities will not recognize your degree if the school isn’t accredited.
Types of accreditation:
- AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business): Top-tier business schools like Harvard and Wharton hold this accreditation.
- AMBA (Association of MBAs): Common for international business schools.
- EQUIS (European Quality Improvement System): Recognized in Europe and Asia.
✅ Example: If you earn an MBA from an AACSB-accredited school, it carries more weight when applying for jobs at multinational companies.
But if you choose a school with no accreditation, your degree will not be valued.
2. Reputation and Ranking – How does the school compare to others?
The reputation of a university can influence your job prospects.
Business schools are ranked based on their faculty, alumni success, employer reputation, and research output.
Where to check rankings?
- QS World University Rankings
- Financial Times Global MBA Rankings
- U.S. News & World Report
✅ Example: An MBA from London Business School (ranked in the top 10 globally) will have better recognition than one from an unknown university.
3. Curriculum – Does it match your career goals?
Not all MBA programs teach the same subjects.
Some focus on entrepreneurship, while others specialize in finance, healthcare, or technology.
Go through the courses to see if they align with your career goals.
✅ Example:
- If you want to work in tech, an MBA with courses in business analytics and AI is ideal.
- If your goal is to become a financial analyst, look for an MBA with investment and risk management courses.
4. Program format: fully online or hybrid?
Online MBA programs come in different formats:
✔ Fully Online: 100% remote learning, no in-person attendance required.
✔ Hybrid: A mix of online and on-campus learning, which will require you to occasionally visit the campus.
If you have a busy schedule or live far from the university, going for a fully online program will be the best option.
However, if you prefer some face-to-face networking, a hybrid program could be better.
✅ Example: If you have a 9-5 job, a self-paced MBA where you watch recorded lectures will help you manage your time better than one with fixed schedules.
5. Tuition and financial aid – Can you afford it?
Online MBAs are expensive, the prices range from $5,000 to over $100,000.
Some universities have scholarships, financial aid, or payment plans to help students afford tuition.
✅ Example:
- Schools like the University of the People offer free tuition for MBA programs.
Go for the MBA program you can afford.
6. Admission requirements – Do you meet the criteria?
To take most MBA programs, you need:
✔ A bachelor’s degree
✔ Work experience (sometimes 2-5 years)
✔ GMAT/GRE scores (some schools waive this)
✅ Example: If you don’t want to take the GMAT, apply for universities that offer GMAT waivers based on work experience.
7. Faculty quality – Are the professors experienced?
A great MBA program has professors with both academic and industry experience.
Before you pick an MBA program, check the faculty members to see if they’ve worked in real-world business settings.
✅ Example: A marketing MBA should have professors who have worked at Google, Facebook, or Amazon.
8. Networking opportunities – Can you connect with industry professionals?
One of the biggest benefits of an MBA is networking.
Only go for MAB programs that have:
✔ Alumni groups
✔ Industry connections
✔ Internships
✅ Example: If your goal is to work in investment banking, choose an MBA that has partnerships with Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, or JPMorgan.
9. Career support – Will they help you get a job?
A good MBA program will provide you with:
✔ Resume-building workshops
✔ Mock interviews
✔ Career fairs
Some top programs boast a 90%+ employment rate within six months of graduation, go for them.
10. Specializations – Can you customize your MBA?
Check if the MAB has an option for specialization.
If you want to work in data analytics, choose an MBA with courses in big data and AI.
11. Global recognition – Will your degree be valued worldwide?
Some MBAs are well-known internationally, while others are only recognized locally.
If you plan to work abroad, choose a program with global recognition.
✅ Example: An MBA from Stanford is recognized worldwide, while an MBA from a small regional university will only be known locally.
12. Learning platform and technology – Is it user-friendly?
Online MBAs use platforms like Canvas, Blackboard, or Moodle.
Choose a school that has an easy-to-use interface and offers mobile access.
✅ Example: If you travel often, an MBA with mobile learning access allows you to attend lectures on your phone.
13. Student reviews – What do past students say?
Before picking a particular MAB program, check student testimonials, Google reviews, and LinkedIn discussions about the program.
If past students complain about poor faculty support, it might be a red flag.
14. Duration – How long does it take to graduate?
Most online MBAs take 12 months to 3 years. Choose a program based on your schedule and career urgency.
✅ Example: If you want to graduate quickly, a 12-month accelerated MBA is better than a 3-year part-time program.
Final thoughts
If you want to choose the right MAB program (which is important you do), go for one that is accredited, is less costly (if you’re on a budget) and is flexible.
In addition, check the program’s reputation before you decide.
Take your time and select a program that aligns with your career goals, budget, and lifestyle.
💡 Pro Tip: Before making a final decision, attend a virtual open house or webinar to experience the program firsthand!
Key takeaways:
✔ Choose an accredited program for credibility.
✔ Pick a format that fits your schedule (fully online vs. hybrid).
✔ Look for a specialization that matches your career goals.
✔ Compare tuition costs and financial aid options.
✔ Check for networking and career support opportunities.
With the right online MBA, you can boost your career and open doors to better opportunities.
Good luck!