Online MBA vs Full-Time MBA: Which One Should You Choose?

Online MBA vs Full Time MBA: With the growing years, the online MBA or Masters in Business Administration programme has gained a lot of traction over the last few years owing to the flexible culture it provides. However, for all those who are confused, online MBA and full-time MBA courses are both the same and there is not much difference. To know how they are different and how you can pursue them, continue reading this blog post for more information. 

Online MBA vs Full-Time MBA – What’s the Difference?

When deciding the best option for an MBA – an online degree or a regular course? You must understand each mode of learning. To conclude, let’s understand the difference between online MBA and full-time MBA degrees.

Particulars	Online MBA	Full-Time MBA
Mode of Study	All classes, project assignments and even exams are conducted in an online mode.	Regular offline classroom study happens with a fixed timetable of classes with offline exams as the mode of study.
Curriculum	The curriculum is the same as that of the regular MBA program which combines theoretical and practical knowledge that happens virtually.	It also includes both theoretical and practical training.
Principles of Teaching	It offers an extremely flexible teaching-learning environment.	Students are expected to follow a fixed and strict schedule for assignment submission, class participation and exams.
Duration of Program	The course is of 2 years according to the universities. However, students also study at their own pace provided they complete the course in the stipulated time.	The duration of the MBA course is 2 years. There is no flexibility in terms of duration.
Fees	The fee range for online MBA programmes ranges between 2-4 Lakhs	While the fee for a regular MBA degree comes in the bracket of 15-20 Lakhs. However, the fees vary depending on what type of college or university it is.
Intake Process	There is a specific time period for admission. Although there is a provision for lateral entry.	With the number of seats fixed, there is a lot of competition.
Admission Process	The admission process is simple and one can simply apply online. You just need to fill out an application form, submit documents and pay fees.	Candidates are supposed to go through a proper examination to get into college, meet the eligibility criteria which vary for each college and exam and then get admitted.
Exposure	Online MBA program provides exposure with the help of regular webinars, interactive live sessions and meetings with industry experts.	While a regular MBA provides industrial visits, factory visits are conducted to give all exposure.
Placement	Various types of placements and career assistance are provided to the students.	Here a proper placement process is conducted at the end of each final academic year and get the opportunity to be placed in one of the best companies.
Networking	Students get the opportunity to connect with their fellow batchmates through online faculty discussion which takes place regularly. Moreover, virtual webinars are also conducted.	In this case, students get to interact live with batchmates, and faculty members and network.

Online MBA vs Full-Time MBA – What Should You Choose?

So, which is the best option – an Online MBA vs a Full-Time MBA? Looking at the difference mentioned above, it can be seen that both modes of MBA courses have their pros and cons. It is up to the students what mode of studying they prefer. Both of them are different in various aspects – attendance, placements, admission process, principles of teaching and much more. 

Also Read: Benefits of Online MBA

MBA Degree: Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible to pursue the MBA degree, the candidate needs to fulfil the eligibility criteria. Below are the eligibility criteria which required to be met by almost all the colleges. However, this may vary depending on college to college. 

• It is expected that all candidates should hold a minimum of 3 years of bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university. 
• Candidates in their final year can also apply for the same, provided they will have to submit their degree at the time of admission. 
• Candidates with work experience will also be given preference. 
• Finally, all candidates must have 50 per cent marks for the General Category and 45 per cent marks for the reserved category. 

Also Read: Distance MBA from IIM

Online MBA vs Full-Time MBA – Career Opportunities

When it comes to career opportunities, there is no difference if the student holds an MBA degree from a regular college or online. There are equal and numerous career opportunities available to candidates after pursuing this degree. 

Here is a list of some of the top career choices that are preferred by students after pursuing an MBA:

• Sales Manager
• Marketing Manager
• Human Resource Manager 
• Project Manager
• Market Research Analyst 

Top Colleges Offering Online MBA

Here are some top colleges in India which offer online MBA programs to candidates aspiring to get into this field. 

Amity University	Manipal University Jaipur
Dayananda Sagar University​	Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University)
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)	Loyola Institute of Business Administration (LIBA)​

Also Read: Online MBA in India

Related Reads

MBA for Working Professionals	Online MBA Options From Universities Across the Globe
Online MBA from IIM 2023: Course Details	Types of MBA Courses
MBA Distance Education

FAQs

Is an online MBA better than a full-time MBA program?

Both the options for pursuing an MBA are okay and valid. It is up to the student how well they can manage their studies. 

Is an online MBA degree accepted by companies?

Yes, an online MBA degree is recognised by UGC in India and is also accepted by all the companies in India. 

Does IIM offer an MBA degree to students?

Yes, IIM does offer an MBA degree to students.

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