Distance MBA: Bridging the gap (Part 1)

Distance MBA: Bridging the gap (Part 1)

Are you a working professional devoid of an MBA? Do you feel low for not earning enough green bucks at the end of every month? Here is how we help you to get closer to your MBA dream, by providing a detailed review of distance MBA.

WHAT IF you are a busy working professional who just cannot afford to attend the daily classes in brick and mortar classrooms? Then quality Distance MBA is what you can rely upon.

We have explored in depth the various facets of Distance MBA in this three part series. Here is the first one, bringing to you an overview of the basic elements encompassed by distance MBA, and that how it is different from a regular MBA, including the views of the experts whom we exclusively interviewed.

What is Distance MBA?

Imparting the essentials of management without the physical boundaries of a classroom, at a time feasible to the schedule of the students is the basic concept behind the correspondence MBA. “Distance Learning in MBA lends flexibility and convenience to the distance MBA takers. They get an option to learn online while doing their jobs.” says Anand Sudarshan, MD & CEO, Sikkim Manipal University-Distance Education.

For Whom?

At the same time, it’s a well known fact that without learning the basic concepts behind management and mastering the skills of decision making, financial analysis, interpersonal relationships etc. associated with it, their career will grow at a turtle pace.

Also, distance MBA proves to be a boon for those who cannot find access to the B School campuses for their own reasons.

Generally, the ones opting for MBA through Distance Learning are those who are already working with an organization and want MBA to enhance their efficiency.

Distance Learning MBA vs. Regular MBA

Distance Learning MBA degree differs from a regular MBA in that it is earned through a college or university with a distance learning format. Students who enroll in an online degree program do not attend classes at a brick and mortar school; rather, they receive assignments through an interactive web-based portal and complete required work as per their own convenience.

Though compared to regular MBA, the enrollment ratio in Distance MBA lags much behind. “In India the inclination towards distance learning is still low as distance learning is in growth phase in India. Though it is growing at the rate of 30 per cent per annum,” states Dr. Kamal Singh. Director, AIMA-CDL.

As far as the course curriculum of Distance MBA is concerned; the institutions offering distance education claim it to be at par with that of regular MBA.

Advantage Distance MBA

Regular MBA candidates might scorn at the idea of distance MBA education, but such MBA has its own set of target students. The USP of distance education MBA lies in the fact that it provides job-oriented knowledge that can be immediately practiced as one works alongside. Distance MBA allows you to enjoy the comfort of learning from your home, at a time which is most convenient for you and doesn’t interfere with your busy work schedule.

“One of the major advantages of distance learning programs offered by us is an AICTE approved PGDM/PGDITM degree. Students may take the course anywhere in India with wide network of study centers. They get well-recognized degree at comfortable fee structure,” tells Dr. Singh of AIMA – CME.

Hence, distance education proves to be an icing on the cake for those who are already working professionals, as adding an MBA degree can enhance their skills multifold and also guarantee a thicker pay package.

In our next article, we will extend our research to the different key players offering distance MBA, and compare the programs and pedagogy offered by them. So, stay tuned.