Distance Learning Programs

The Advantages of Distance Learning

The origins of distance learning stretch all the way back to the 18^th Century, when an American teacher of business shorthand offered learn-by-mail courses in New England. By the mid-1800s, London universities were routinely offering degree programs by mail. By the latter part of the 20^th Century, breakthroughs in digital technology transformed the international learning system, enabling MBA degree programs to flourish in the online space.

Employing breakthrough technology in messaging, chat, streaming lectures, and video presentations, today's MBA degree programs offer the best opportunities for earning an accredited MBA online without compromising your busy work or family schedules. They can be a perfect solution for business professionals who can immediately apply their learning in the workplace, or for those who want to boost their credentials to move into better-paying, management roles within their organization.

The Online MBA Advantage

Students report that the online Master in Business Administration experience is not isolating. In fact, they say that collaborative online project work with their fellow students forges life-long professional and personal relationships.

Distance learning provides some distinct advantages:

• Flexible, 24-hour access to learning materials and research
• Savings by eliminating commuting, parking, and college housing costs
• Increased opportunities for employer-assisted tuition
• Focused time commitment on only courses that apply to business and management

For it all to work, however, students enrolled in accredited online MBA degree programs must be disciplined and organized, creating a regular routine to attend classes, teleconferences, lectures, and workshops.

Possible Drawbacks of an Online MBA

The self-paced, accelerated online MBA may not be your best option if you have trouble with routine online communications, chat, or browser software. You'll need access to broadband connectivity for most of the sessions to operate smoothly. On the other hand, if you're used to the business world and its software, you'll fit in nicely.

Online colleges typically do not offer as many scholarships as brick-and-mortar schools because students are often already employed or are sometimes funded by their employers. While many online MBA programs offer career placement and assistance, some do not. You'll need to evaluate your needs and individual school offerings carefully before making a choice.