Looking for an MBA to combine with your job
NOT all MBA programmes are the same. Besides differences in content, quality, reputation, network and success rates, one of the key distinctions between MBA programmes are their structure and target demographics.
“In general, we can break MBA programmes into two main categories: those that cannot be studied while working and those than can. MBA programmes that require all your time and physical presence are full-time MBA programmes. All other MBA programmes are part-time MBA programmes,” explains Thomas Graf, founder of the MIM Compass, MBA Compass and DBA Compass platforms.
“Potentially confusingly to prospective MBA students, these part-time MBA programmes are not always called ‘part-time’ MBA programmes and are often quite different. They are put into subgroups, such as executive MBAs (EMBAs), online MBAs, distance MBAs, and blended MBAs, as well as part-time MBAs. The following definitions may assist students in selecting the right MBA.”
Those programmes on the website of the schools, in advertisements and in programme brochures that are officially called part-time MBAs are programmes that are open for any professional with some years of professional experience and can be studied alongside one’s job. The structure can be modular, where students learn individually and come together every few weeks to meet with professors and each other. Alternatively, the structure might be weekly, with students coming onto campus on a weekly or biweekly basis. This format lends itself to studying at a local provider.
Online or distance MBA programmes are also part-time MBA programmes because they can be studied while working. They are not called parttime MBAs, however, because they follow a different structure. In online MBAs, contact with professors and fellow students is primarily through web applications (though, naturally, the use of such applications is increasingly used across all part-time formats), through which discussions, individual assignments and contact can take place. The advantages of this programme type are that students can study at home, easily fitting these around their lifestyles and are not limited to local providers. Most reputable programmes however, will include an in-person element, which usually takes place over an intensive week. Distance MBAs – a format that has largely given way to online MBAs except where internet access is poor – see students receive texts (for example case studies) via snail mail. Residential periods are required for exams or for a kick-off meeting.
Blended MBA programmes combine residential periods with online components. They tend to lean towards the latter, with a handful of in-person elements thrown in. Again, blended MBA programmes are part-time programmes that can be studied alongside a job.
The executive MBA (EMBA) covers the same core courses as a full-time MBA. It is also a part-time MBA, as it can be studied alongside ones’ job; indeed, one is required to be in work for an EMBA. Traditionally, these programmes are company funded, whereby the company aims to improve its top-level talent and aid its performance. EMBA programmes ask for more leadership experience than the other formats mentioned here as part of their entry requirements. Because of this, EMBA students are often older than full-time MBA students are. The programmes are more expensive and network-oriented, and feature distance learning elements often comingled with international in-person elements.
The QS World MBA Tour gives you an opportunity like no other. You get to meet faceto-face with admissions directors from local and international business schools, learn more about the different programmes on offer, get an understanding of the GMAT and of course meet like-minded people also looking to advance their career aspirations. There will also be some GMAT prep course giveaways at the Johannesburg event being held on 9 May 2017 at the Maslow Hotel Sandton from 4-8pm.