MBAs: What to Consider in Choosing a Program

Deciding on the right MBA program for you can be a daunting task. The following article will help you to consider various approaches to study as well as the usefulness of rankings and school reputation in deciding on a suitable program.
Different Ways to Earn an MBA
Traditional, two-year programs generally involve a core curriculum in the first year, and room for specialization in the second. However, in recent years, more non-traditional MBAs are emerging both here in the United States and around the world, enabling students to create a program structure that fits their current professional situation.

• Joint MBAs combine business studies with other disciplines-such as law, international relations, or public health-allowing students to "double-count" coursework for quicker degree completion.
• Modular MBA programs usually require less frequent (though longer) periods of group study. These enable flexibility via the Internet with an element of face-to-face interaction with peers.
• Cohort-based programs, similar to modular MBAs, place a group of students together (usually 10-20) who work through the program simultaneously. These involve face-to-face interaction, called "residencies," which are short, on-campus gatherings typically held at the beginning and middle of a program.
• Part-time MBA programs have become increasingly popular, primarily because more people are seeking to earn MBA degrees, and life circumstances do not always allow for students to commit to two full-time years of study.

Common Core Curricula
While core requirements may vary from school to school, coursework will generally include some of the following:
While core requirements may vary from school to school, coursework will generally include some of the following:

• Finance and accounting
• Quantitative analysis
• Economics
• Marketing
• Organizational behavior and leadership
• Business strategy
• Human resources
• Marketing management
• Manufacturing and production
• Operations management
• Statistics
• Technology and information systems

Importance of Reputation and Rankings
While rankings remain useful for getting an overall impression of an MBA program, they should not serve as a substitute for considerations such as program practicality, location, course structure, duration, cost, job placement services, content, specialization offerings, and student body.
However, an excellent resource for global MBA program rankings can be found at http://www.mbainfo.com/rankings.html. The MBA Program Information site provides rankings from several U.S. and global polls, as well as extensive information on selecting an MBA program, the application process, GMAT tips, etc.
When considering which MBA program is right for you, it is important to look both inward and outward. In other words, consider what your professional goals, expectations, and financial resources are (looking inward), alongside school rankings, specialization offerings, and reputation (looking outward). These considerations, in combination, will put you in a position to make the best possible decision.

The 5 Biggest Mistakes Online MBA Students Make

How to Avoid Serious Trouble When Earning Your Online MBA Degree.

An online MBA degree can help you get a better job, a higher position, and a pay raise. However, a simple mistake such as choosing the wrong school or failing to network with your peers could harm your chances of finding success.

If you want to do well in your online MBA program, avoid these common mistakes:

Mistake #1: Enrolling in a non-accredited online MBA program.

Avoid it: A degree from an unaccredited school may not be accepted by other universities and future employers. Before enrolling in any online MBA program, check to see if the school is accredited by the proper regional association.

Fix it: If you're already attending a school that isn't properly accredited, try to transfer to a school that is. Before applying to a new school, ask them to explain their transfer policy. With any luck, you may still be able to salvage some of your work.

Mistake #2: Not taking online MBA work seriously.

Avoid it: It's easy to do less than your best when an instructor isn't standing over your shoulder. But, don't dig yourself into a hole by neglecting your assignments. Good grades can mean a better chance at scholarships and a better chance at nailing your first post business school job. Make a schedule that allows time for school as well as family, career, and anything else that is important to you. Set aside time each day to complete your work without distraction. If you're still having trouble getting your work done, consider taking a lighter load. Remember that balance is key.

 Fix it: If you're already behind on work, arrange a phone meeting to talk to each of your professors. Explain your situation, and your renewed commitment to complete your assignments. You may offer to do extra credit or participate in special projects to get your grades back up. If you find yourself slipping again, recruit family members and friends to help keep you on track.

Mistake #3: Ignoring MBA program peers.

Avoid it: Networking is one of the biggest perks of business school. Most traditional students leave their MBA program with a rolodex full of contacts that can help them in their new profession. It can be hard to meet people through a virtual classroom; but, it's not impossible. Start off your program right by introducing yourself to your peers and professors. Always participate in class chat sessions and message boards. When you complete a course, send a message to your peers letting them know that you've enjoyed meeting them and giving them a way to contact you in the future. Ask them to respond likewise.
Fix it: If you've let networking fall to the wayside, it's not too late. Start introducing yourself now. Before you graduate, send out a note or an email to students you may be able to work with in the future.

Mistake #4: Paying for an online MBA degree out of your own pocket.

Avoid it: There are tons of financial resources for online MBA students. Scholarships, grants, and special programs can help ease the cost of tuition. Before starting your first semester, get as much financial help as possible. Also, be sure to set up a meeting with your boss. Some employers will help pay an employee's tuition if they think the degree will benefit the company.

Fix it: If you're already paying for everything out-of-pocket, check to see what opportunities are still available. If your school offers access to a financial counselor, call her up and ask for advice. Many scholarships allow students to re-apply each year, giving you multiple chances to be granted cash.

Mistake #5: Missing out on work experience.

Avoid it: Internships and work-study programs provide students with real-life business knowledge, valuable contacts, and, often, a new job. Since many online MBA programs don't require that students spend their summers interning for major corporations, some students simply forgo this opportunity. But, don't let this chance get away! Call up your school and ask them what work experience programs are available or contact a company to ask for internship details.

Fix it: Most internships are only available to students, so be sure to arrange something before you graduate. Even if you already have a job you may still be able to get an internship for a brief period of time or during irregular hours.
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