Second Post

MBA – the mix and match way


For many ambitious professionals keen to earn their MBA but unwilling to leave their homes and jobs (or pay a small fortune) for the privilege, distance learning seems like the most sensible option. Modern technology has allowed business schools to set up courses that require no face-to-face interaction but rely instead on ‘live’ e-mail tutorials, internet discussion boards and virtual student cafes.


For others, however, three to five years commitment to a course lacking any ‘real’ contact with tutors or contemporaries can seem a little daunting. That is why a number of business schools have developed courses that try to make the best of both worlds. The Open University Business Schools (OUBS), for example, has adopted what it terms a "blended learning" approach. Wherever any of the students might be located across the globe, they are periodically expected to attend short residential courses in addition to completing the online work.



Other courses offer an even more flexible system, which actually allows students to mix and match elements of traditional distance learning with part-time campus work in a manner suitable to their requirements.



All in all, there are 20 business schools in the UK offering distance learning MBA courses, 10 of which are endorsed by the Association of MBAs. When deciding what type of course to go for, consider how motivated you are to persevere without human contact – there is a higher dropout rate on distance learning courses, especially in the first year.



One of the great advantages is, of course, that you can work while you study so you should consider what type of course will allow you to practice what you learn and make sure the business school you are applying to is respected within your chosen industry. Networking with successful with alumni can be extremely helpful and, importantly, you should enquire as to whether there would be opportunities to meet and exchange ideas with fellow students.