Online Business Schools (also known as distance-learning business schools) are growing in popularity for a number of reasons.  But they are not for everyone. It is important to fully understand the strengths and weaknesses of online business schools before selecting this pathway. You will be investing a great deal of time and money in your degree. Make sure it brings value to your future.

Advantages of Online Business Schools:
• Online business schools allow people to stay at home with their families while studying
• Students can maintain a full-time job even if traveling for work while completing studies.
• Many online schools allow students to work at their own pace.
• Online business schools maybe less expensive
• Online business schools cause less disruption to a family life
• Your fellow students are generally employed! If the online business school offers opportunities to network and interact online with fellow students, take full advantage of this. Many of these students maybe able to help you by passing your resume around within their company.

Disadvantages of Online Business Schools:
• Online business schools have little or no “Wow Factor”. It is important to fully understand the “Wow Factor”, one of the major reasons for eaning an MBA, before selecting a business school. You will be investing a great deal of time and money into earning your MBA, are you sure you want to pass up on the “Wow Factor” which comes from graduating from a Top Business School?
• Some Online business schools may not be accredited. It is extremely important to make certain that your business school is accredited, otherwise, your degree may be considered worthless. There are several accreditation agencies, but one of the best recognized is the AACSB, which specializes in accrediting Business and Accounting Schools. AACSB has accredited all of the top ranked business schools. If you are going to attend an Online Business School, at least make sure it is accredited by the AACSB
• Online business schools may not offer access to recruiters. One of the big advantages of attending business schools is the contact with recruiters from major companies that come to the school to find future grads. Most of the top ranked schools have a professional placement office which nurtures relationships with companies and recruiters and help grads find jobs. Many of the online business schools will not have strong placement offices or relationships with recruiters.
• Some online business schools offer little personal contact with fellow students. While it is important to network and learn from your fellow students, the lack of personal contact will make this much more difficult. Before choosing an online degree program, first explore the opportunities for interaction with fellow students. Ask for an opportunity to see how and if the students interact. The more networking opportunities, the better it will be to use your network to find a job.