Are you looking to study an MBA and can’t decide if you should study online or in-person? You aren’t alone! Many students struggle to decide whether online or in person study is right for them. To help you, we will guide you through the benefits and drawbacks of online and in person studies to help you see which is the best method. 

What is an MBA?

An MBA, or master of business administration, is a postgraduate course that provides you with the skills and knowledge you need to thrive in a leadership or management role. MBAs are taught across the world, with several respected programs in Australia. An Australian MBA will last around two years, with the option to study full-time, part-time, or entirely online. The flexibility here helps you study while working, making it a great option for parents or those with caring and employment responsibilities. 

The aim of an MBA is to prepare you for the business world with case studies and real-world examples that help you put your knowledge into practice. The units covered on an MBA vary depending on the course provider and if you choose to specialise in change management or finance. Many MBAs will offer similar units, helping you to deepen your knowledge about ethics, business policy, marketing, and more. You can expect to see similar titles for units in your course handbook: 

• Art and practice of leadership 

• Advanced organisational behaviour 

• Business analytics and visualisation 

• Business consulting 

• Business ethics and sustainability 

• Financial analysis 

• Marketing management 

• Managing innovation and entrepreneurship

• Organisation change management

• Performance management rewards 

• Strategic human resource management

• Strategic management and business policy

What are the benefits of studying an MBA online?

Studying for an MBA comes with several benefits that make it an attractive option for many students. We have outlined our favourite benefits for you below: 

It is flexible 

Studying online is very flexible, allowing you to complete the MBA on your own time. All of your classes are pre-recorded so that you can complete your studies in your own time, fitting it around your work or caring responsibilities. The flexibility makes it an attractive choice for anyone working alongside their studying or who is unable to commit to regular class times. 

It is cheaper 

In some cases, studying online can also be cheaper. The courses are paid per unit, too, helping you to spread the cost of your online MBA, so you don’t have to worry about any large fee bills. Despite studying online, you can access discounts and funding for your course like you would with in-person classes, making them cheaper for students. 

What are the drawbacks of studying an MBA online?

An online MBA does come with some drawbacks that are worth noting before deciding if it's the right study option for you. 

It can be isolating 

Studying alone at home can make it isolating for some students. You might find it difficult to engage with the content or seek support as you are alone without any assistance. There is support available for you, but as there are no in-person classes or discussions, some students find it difficult to reach out for support. 

It can be difficult to remain motivated 

As you are studying at home and usually in isolation, some students can find it difficult to remain motivated. There are no set dates or times to attend classes, which can make it tricky to keep yourself motivated. You need to have excellent motivation and time management skills to succeed in an online MBA. 

What are the benefits of studying for an MBA in person?

You can also choose to study an MBA in person, which comes with its own set of benefits, outlined below. 

It makes it easier to get feedback 

As you are attending in-person classes and engaging with your professors face-to-face, you can get feedback instantly without needing to seek anyone out. Gaining feedback instantly makes it easier for you to know if you are making the right progress or answer any questions you have, reducing any confusion and making it easier for you to complete the course. 

It allows for collaborative learning 

Studying in person allows you to collaborate with other learners. Collaborative learning is a great way to bounce ideas off other students and can inspire new ideas that will help you complete your MBA. Some students prefer this method of learning and find it easier to study. 

What are the drawbacks of studying for an MBA in person?

Studying an MBA in person does come with drawbacks that are worth considering before deciding if it's the right option for you. 

There can be additional costs 

It's not just the cost of the course you need to pay when studying in person. You might need to pay commuting or parking costs, which add to the daily and weekly cost of studying. The cost of textbooks, food on campus, and other costs can make studying in person very expensive. 

It isn’t flexible 

In person studying does not come with much flexibility, making it harder for students with jobs or caring responsibilities to complete their studies. You will want to check the timetable for the course before applying to determine whether studying in person is a viable option. 

Start your MBA today

Before deciding which method of study is best for you, make sure that you weigh up the benefits and drawbacks of studying in person and online. Doing so will help you decide if an online MBA or in person MBA is the right choice for you. 

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