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17 Mar 2025
5 mins

10 Things to Know Before Pursuing an Online MBA

Written by: Editorial Team

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Did you know that Forbes predicted that the worldwide online education market will hit $350 billion by 2025, back in 2020? Today, online degree programs are fast gaining popularity, confirming this prediction. 

One of the most common programs, online MBA programs, are exceptionally popular due to their flexibility, affordability, and potential for career growth. Nevertheless, there are certain crucial features that one should be mindful of when selecting an online MBA program so that it matches their professional prospects. 

As such, understanding these aspects may help you to make a good choice on which program would fit your expected future.

1. Quality of the program is validated through accreditation

Accreditation is a guarantee that an online MBA program satisfies high academic requirements and is acknowledged by every employer around the world. Accredited programs come with superior faculty, curriculum structure, and relevance to industry trends. Ensure you go for programs which are UGC entitled as well as honored by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).

2. Flexibility and course format

One of the reasons why online MBA degree programs have become dearer to professionals is because they offer flexibility. However, not all programs can provide equal space for maneuvering. There are online programs that are conducted through recorded sessions with self-paced learning as required, whereas there are on-campus ones that demand a fixed timetable. Before enrolling, you must look into issues related to course format and workload assessments.

3. Choosing specializations based on career objectives

An important consideration when selecting an online MBA is picking out a specialization which is relevant to one’s career goals. A few examples of areas of specialization that you might find in various online MBA programs are Digital Marketing, Business Analytics, International Business, among others. For instance, Manipal University Jaipur’s (MUJ) online MBA program through Online Manipal has 13 career-focused specializaitons for learners choosing an online MBA program.

4. Faculty expertise and industry relevance

Faculty combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience from actual industry life can add more value to learning. Therefore, when you evaluate online MBA programmes, consider the type of academic background the faculty possesses, their exposure to the industry, and how they deliver their lessons.

5. Technology and learning platform

The success of a seamless online MBA degree program hinges on an effective learning management system (LMS). Thus, one needs an efficient platform capable of supporting the delivery of course materials smoothly, interactive content and access to recorded lectures in real time.

6. Cost and financial aid

One reason people lean towards choosing an online MBA program is that it’s cheaper than traditional ones. However, it’s essential to know how much you will pay in total for the learning. Tuition fees, study materials and other expenses should be considered. To make the program more accessible, learners could explore financial aid options such as scholarships and EMI schemes.

7. Placement assistance and career support

A good online MBA program should be able to provide its students with career counseling services, assistance in finding placements, and connections to professionals in the industry. As a matter of fact, Online Manipal offers MBA programs that facilitate a smooth transition to leadership roles by providing 100% placement assistance.

8. Alumni network and industry connections

A solid alumni network is one key resource after graduating from an online MBA program. They offer advice, mentorship, and career development insights, which all contribute significantly in shaping your career path post-graduation. Institutions like MUJ and SMU over Online Manipal have already established industry-connected alumni networks.

9. Time commitment and workload management

Even though online MBA programs are known for their flexibility, they require continuous effort and proper time management. It is not easy to juggle between these courses’ workloads with other academic responsibilities at hand simultaneously. Knowing how much time is needed before enrolling in one of them can save you this hassle.

10. Employer perception and credibility

Despite the increasing recognition of online education, knowing that your future potential employer values the specific online MBA program you chose for yourself really matters a lot. And when it comes to employer perception, an online MBA degree from reputable institutions like MUJ and SMU under Online Manipal stands as valid almost anywhere.

You can also read: Career prospects after an MBA in Healthcare Management

Why Choose an Online MBA through Online Manipal

Online Manipal is a Manipal Group entity that provides access to UGC-entitled online degree programs from prestigious institutions like Sikkim Manipal University (SMU), Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) and Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ).

  1. Online MBA from MUJ: Ranked as number one by Careers360, this program has 13 industry-specific specializations that help learners land lucrative jobs.
  1. Online MBA from SMU: A dual-specialization program targeting future leaders with flexible learning options.
  1. Online MBA from MAHE: This program covers 10 high-demand specializations for working professionals, combining a robust academic discipline with practicability.

Conclusion

An online MBA degree program is a big investment in your future. The 10 factors listed here match your professional goals before you make a decision. Enroll into the online MBA programs by MAHE, MUJ and SMU through Online Manipal to take advantage of advanced career options that lead to a successful professional journey. Good luck applying!

Checkout different MBA specializations

MBA Specializations
Master of Business Administration (Online MBA)Online MBA in IT & FinTech
Online MBA in Digital MarketingOnline MBA in Operations Management
Online MBA in FinanceOnline MBA in International Business
Online MBA in MarketingOnline MBA in Information System Management
Online MBA in Human Resource ManagementOnline MBA in Project Management
Online MBA in Analytics and Data ScienceOnline MBA in Supply Chain Management

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Editorial Team

Editorial Team

Online Manipal

  • MBA
  • Online
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