The value of a distance learning MBA

There is a common misconception that the value of a distance learning MBA is less than that of one completed in person. Thanks to technology and flexible agreements, it is now possible to obtain a prestigious MBA degree without setting foot in a classroom. Whilst distance learning and on campus study do have their differences, at the end of the day, they have the same value. Are you sceptical? Read on to learn the facts.

As many of us are aware, possessing an MBA opens a number of doors when it comes to your career. Many people have difficulty deciding whether to undertake the MBA in person, or via distance learning, however their decision should be based on the option most convenient to them. Although you don’t have face-to-face contact with a distance learning programme, the course content, networking opportunities and learning outcomes are just as good. In fact, as Nigel Pye, Assistant Dean at Warwick Business School states, studying your MBA via distance learning actually “gives you a brand new skill: that is, managing a virtual team”. When students are asked to work in teams for group assignments, they need to adapt and learn the skill of managing a remote ream. This is an important tool in today’s business world where offices are located around the globe and collaboration is necessary.

Another common perception is that the distance learning MBA results in fewer networking opportunities. This is in fact not the case; distance learning students are actually presented with their own unique networking prospects aside from the in-person events they are invited to. On a regular basis, students interact and discuss course content with fellow business leaders around the world. Distance learning offers networking with no boundaries, and it is not everyday that you can interact with international contacts with ease. Networking is a crucial component to the experience, and these unique opportunities again emphasise the value of a distance learning MBA.

Finally, in terms of monetary value – the flexibility of the distance learning MBA permits students to continue working. When you study full-time on campus, this generally means that you will have to cease work whilst you complete the programme. Distance learning MBAs cater to the working professional, and allow them to base their study around already established commitments such as work, family and social events. Being able to continue work has a huge amount of financial value; students no longer have to choose between study and work, they can do both. The majority of higher education providers will lower fees for those choosing this study method due to the reduced costs in areas such as maintaining physical campuses. CompareMBA argues that money can also be saved when considering travel costs to a campus.

What do you think?

Overall, it is clear that benefits such as developing new skills, unique networking opportunities and monetary gain further enforce the value of a distance learning MBA. I am curious to hear from both distance learning and on campus students though – what value are you gaining out of your degree? Comment below and share your views.  

The following sources have been used to prepare this article: The Telegraph and CompareMBA