The Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree has long set the standard for business education, providing graduates with a powerful credential that can lead to career advancement and business success. Providing rigorous training in management, leadership and core business principles, the MBA opens the door to a wide range of career possibilities, from executive positions to entrepreneurial ventures.
However, between work, family and life commitments, pursuing an in-person MBA program can pose challenges, such as a more rigid schedule, commuting time or even the need for relocation. In the past, students might attend in-person night courses at remote campuses, but even this format can be hard to juggle with work and other obligations.
Online MBA programs can provide a viable alternative to in-person programs, particularly for working professionals, active-duty military personnel or out-of-state students. Still, students often worry that in the online format, they’ll miss out on one-on-one connections, strong relationships or practical learning experiences.
To ensure a satisfying online educational experience, it’s important to choose an MBA program that makes these a priority. As a leader in online education, Troy University knows the importance of interpersonal connection and how to help students overcome potential obstacles to successful online learning.
If you’re wondering, “Why get an online MBA?” or whether this type of program is for you, here’s what TROY’s online MBA has to offer.
Online MBA Benefits
Perhaps the greatest benefit of online MBA programs is accessibility. Online programs remove obstacles to earning an MBA. Working professionals, active-duty military, rural students or others who have limited access to traditional on-campus programs can pursue their MBA remotely. The online MBA also allows them to better balance their studies around work, family and other life commitments.
“Online MBA benefits also include flexibility, affordability and a diverse learning environment,” says Dr. Phillip Mixon, MBA Director of TROY’s Sorrell College of Business. “Students can access coursework and lectures at their convenience and from anywhere. They can also save on expenses such as housing, commuting and campus fees.”
Dr. Mixon says online MBA students also benefit from interacting with students from other industries, cultures and geographic locations, creating a rich and diverse learning environment that further enhances the learning experience.
TROY’s online MBA program can be completed in just one year. Whether you’re looking to assume managerial positions or start your own business, this timeline can get you to your goal faster.
“Online MBA benefits are myriad when you choose a program like TROY’s,” says Dr. Mixon.
The Online MBA: An Ideal Path for Military Students
The flexibility of the online MBA program, with its nine-week terms, is particularly popular with military students. This structure helps military students study around transfers or active duty — and if they happen to get transferred, TROY will work with students to ensure they can complete their coursework.
For example, one TROY student transferred into the U.S. Space Force and was unsure of his upcoming orders. TROY allowed him to miss a term without having to reapply for the program. When he was ready, he seamlessly resumed his studies.
Military students also value earning TROY’s MBA because it helps them build the leadership knowledge and skills they need to get promoted in the military. The online MBA is also directly applicable to active military personnel, particularly in areas such as management, supply chain and project management.
For veterans transitioning to civilian life, an online MBA positions them for success in their post-military career, whether they work for a company or start their own business venture.
It’s these benefits, along with TROY’s dedication to military students and status as a Military Friendly® School, that make our military MBA graduates give an emphatic “Yes” when asked, “Is business school worth it?” or “Is an online MBA respected?”
Building Community and Experience in Online MBA Programs
According to Dr. Mixon, one of the many benefits of pursuing an MBA is the relationships students cultivate — with one another and with their professors. These connections can blossom into real-world job opportunities well after graduation.
These relationships, he explains, are forged in many ways. TROY’s online MBA is intentionally designed to encourage student collaboration.
“TROY’s online MBA professors facilitate online discussion forums where students can interact with classmates and faculty, ask questions, share insights and participate in academic discussions,” Dr. Mixon notes. “Faculty members actively engage with students by moderating discussions, providing feedback and posing thought-provoking questions.”
Group projects and collaborative assignments also give students opportunities to “work together, exchange ideas and leverage each other’s strengths,” he adds. “To achieve this, we use virtual collaboration tools and platforms to facilitate teamwork and communication among students.”
TROY faculty host virtual office hours where they are available to meet with students to provide academic support, mentoring and guidance. Dr Mixon explains how these sessions allow students to clarify concepts, seek advice and build rapport with faculty members.
He also emphasizes that these connections are so important that TROY requires regular, meaningful interaction between students and their professors and with other students. This requirement provides students with much-needed interaction and collaboration.
Finally, TROY’s online MBA connects students with inspirational and influential business leaders. Guest speakers include business executives, entrepreneurs and other industry experts who share their experiences and insights with MBA students, providing a valuable way to network and connect classroom learning with the real world.
“Incorporating real-world business cases and experiences into the MBA program is essential for providing students with practical insights and skills that they can apply in their future careers,” says Dr. Mixon.
“TROY’s program also features other real-world experiences, such as examining case studies and participating in games and other hands-on learning activities.
“Analyzing case studies allows students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, make strategic decisions and develop critical thinking skills,” Dr. Mixon adds. “Students may look at a range of topics such as strategy, marketing, finance, operations and organizational behavior. The online MBA program also features simulations, role-plays and business games to help students develop practical skills and decision-making abilities.”
Is an Online MBA Respected?
While online MBA programs have been around for decades, the question still arises: “Is an online MBA respected?” While quality can vary widely between programs, TROY’s AACSB-accredited online MBA meets the gold standard for MBA degrees. TROY’s online MBA program is constantly updated, whether it’s adding courses, changing course content or removing courses.
“Utilizing the current resources, the MBA remains nimble enough to change and update quickly to meet the business challenges of the day,” Dr. Mixon notes.
TROY’s MBA program is also regularly ranked and recognized. U.S. News & World Report, for example, ranks TROY’s program among the best online MBA programs — and best online MBA programs for veterans.
“Our faculty are all current in the field and actively publishing,” Dr. Mixon notes. “And TROY’s support staff has a well-established record of helping students achieve their academic goals.”
TROY’s online MBA alumni also contribute to the program’s reputation.
“Our MBA graduates get hired, get promoted and start businesses, which makes a statement,” says Dr. Mixon.
What Can You Do with a Master’s in Business Administration?
Whether it’s in manufacturing, healthcare, business intelligence, government or the music industry, TROY’s online MBA program prepares you to thrive. Specific job titles include chief executive, supply chain manager, human resources manager, business intelligence analyst, purchasing manager or business owner.
Learn more about what you can do with a Master of Business Administration.
Learn More About TROY’s Online MBA
Still wondering why you should get an online MBA? If you’re asking questions like “Is business school worth it?” or “Is an online MBA respected?”, explore TROY’s general business MBA to learn more about the value of our program and how it can help you achieve your goals.
