When pursuing an MBA degree, be sure to consider the different modalities offered. Most institutions offer online, in-person, and hybrid modalities. Each MBA program format presents its own advantages and challenges, so the best choice for you will depend upon the time you plan to devote to your studies and your desired professional outcomes.
Online MBA: Advantages and Challenges
If you are considering enrolling in an online MBA program, there are unique advantages and challenges that you should keep in mind.
Many advantages of an online vs in-person MBA program are because of its flexible nature for working professionals. If you have an existing career that you will continue while earning an MBA, online programs that offer asynchronous classes may best suit your needs. The ability to access your classes and coursework from various locations is key. With an online program, your classwork can exist besides your career work.
While the independence required of students in online MBA programs can be a virtue, it may be important for you to consider the limited face-to-face interaction you will have with your classmates. Instead of doing your work within scheduled times, you must be able to manage your schedule and find time within your busy day to complete your work independently.
Since an online MBA program prioritizes maintaining your professional responsibilities while taking on additional educational commitment, the traditional aspects of an in-person classroom such as collaboration and bonding between classmates are traded in for flexibility.
Adam Botti (MBA candidate) chose to pursue an online degree program right after his undergraduate studies, which earned him an undergraduate and MBA degree in just five years. This learning experience “offered the flexibility for me to work full time to develop as a professional and study to further my education and qualifications.” As an online student, he was able to prioritize the opportunity for professional growth while still earning a competitive edge over other candidates.
The modality is ideal for self-motivated learners who are inspired to further their education while continuing their careers. If you are incredibly self-disciplined and pride yourself on time management skills, this MBA program format may be perfect for you.
In-Person MBA: Advantages and Challenges
If you are looking for a traditional classroom environment in which to earn your MBA, an in-person modality may be the right choice.
By enrolling in an in-person MBA program, you open yourself up to a world of new opportunities. This modality requires you to spend time in the classroom alongside your new professors and classmates, which will offer many chances to network. A traditional in-person program offers students a structured, immersive academic experience that will solidify their studies while creating many opportunities to develop relationships with a new network of workers.
The peers and faculty you meet through an in-person program will be seasoned professionals with connections of their own that can help you in your endeavors. The time you spend collaborating with and learning from these peers and faculty will help you establish strong connections with people who might be able to secure your next role.
While an in-person MBA experience can offer you a traditional educational experience, the time and location commitment it requires creates the potential for career interruptions. Class times are often scheduled in consideration of the students’ busy work lives, however, you might have to alter your schedule to include time for your commute and coursework.
Make MBA classes part of your routine with an in-person program that offers an immersive educational experience with professional opportunities.
Hybrid MBA Programs: The Best of Both Worlds
If you are looking for an MBA program that allows you to further your existing career while enhancing your professional abilities, a hybrid modality might be your best option.
These programs combine the flexibility of online, independent work with in-person interaction that is integral to creating and maintaining relationships with peers and faculty. By combining the flexibility of online programs with the immersive nature of an in-person program, hybrid programs have become an ideal way to expand your skill set without having to sacrifice your existing responsibilities.
Many prospective students who are further along in their careers will find that a hybrid modality works best for their personal and professional needs. After being away from collegiate studies for 17 years, Paul Puhalla (MBA candidate) opted for a hybrid modality to best balance “coursework with my full-time job, family responsibilities with three children, and free time.”
Some schools, like Fairfield Dolan, will offer plans of study that are specifically tailored to your prior experience and desired outcomes, which will inform the balance between how much work is done in person versus online. Each hybrid program is different in what it requires of its students, therefore you should carefully consider the nuances between different institutions before enrolling.
Other Considerations: Full-time vs Part-time
Consider whether you plan to complete your program on a part-time or full-time basis. Your choice will inform how much time you spend earning the degree, which can be helpful when planning around your personal and professional commitments.
If you choose to pursue your program on a full-time basis, you’ll be fully immersed in your MBA curriculum. Your experience as a full-time MBA student would be more akin to traditional schooling since you would be taking a full course load. This choice would require more time and energy dedicated to your program as it would take up a sizable portion of your weeks.
A full-time schedule would be a perfect opportunity to take full advantage of your program through an in-person format. A full-time MBA program requires commitment from its students but allows an immersive, unparalleled educational experience.
If you opt to complete your program on a part-time basis, your schooling would be spread out in a longer time frame through a lighter course load. A part-time MBA program might be the best option for you if you’re unable to make the personal and professional commitments required on a full-time basis and need a more flexible MBA degree program.
Pursuing a part-time degree will help you to continue your existing career while gaining new experiences through your MBA coursework. If you’re considering this option, it might be helpful to inquire with your employer if they offer funding for employees pursuing graduate degrees.
To maximize your efficiency, you might want to go with an online modality, although a less demanding course load might open opportunities for you to take your classes in a hybrid or even in-person modality. By enrolling in a part-time program, your MBA coursework would supplement your existing obligations without you needing to make extensive changes to your routine.
The choice between part-time and full-time is entirely dependent on your existing commitments and how much you are willing or able to move around. There are benefits and challenges with each course load, so be sure to put your values first.
Prioritize Your Values and Professional Goals
When choosing which type of MBA program to pursue, remember that there is no “best” option—only the one that best aligns with your personal values and career goals.
If you hope to enroll in a program that supplements your existing lifestyle and career, the advantages of an online MBA may best suit you. If you are looking to fully immerse yourself in your studies and your institution’s network, an in-person MBA experience may be ideal. If your goal is to continue your career while deriving the benefits of a classroom experience, a hybrid MBA program could be the right choice for you.
Be sure to carefully evaluate your personal circumstances when deciding which format will be most beneficial. In today’s world, there are a plethora of programs that offer quality teaching in whichever modality you decide is best.
