Will You Get the Same Job Opportunities with an Online MBA Program?

People today are opting to pursue an online degree for a number of reasons. The first is the convenience it offers. One no longer needs to be physically present in a class. The time previously spent commuting to and from campus can now be used for more constructive purposes.

The second reason is the flexibility of the learning process. This makes it possible to study at one’s pace regardless of age, work schedule, and most importantly, location. All that is required is a laptop, an internet connection, some privacy, efficient time management skills, and of course, the will to learn.

Despite the benefits and prevalence of online learning, many students wonder whether their credentials will be recognized by potential employers. Is this fear justified? Does an online MBA program from Washington State University offer the same job opportunities as one acquired from a physical campus?

Employers’ Perception of Online Education

Before online education became as prevalent as it is today most employers viewed online MBAs with suspicion or indifference. As a result, it was nearly impossible for an online graduate to land a good job. Fortunately, these attitudes have all but disappeared. For the most part, recruiters regard online qualifications as equivalent to conventional ones. So, what brought about this change in perception?

The main reason for this shift was the embracing of this type of learning by reputable schools. This had the effect of raising the standards of online education to that of physical universities. Consequently, employers became more receptive and job opportunities became available to online learners. Nevertheless, some questions still linger in the minds of recruiters.

Questions Employers Ask

The first question asked by interviewers is the reputation and accreditation of the school offering the online MBA. This is the best indicator of the quality of training received by its students. As a general rule, qualifications acquired from for-profit institutions are regarded as questionable at best.

The second is the applicant’s reason for choosing to pursue and online degree when there are many traditional options available. Not surprisingly, most are trying to avoid a long drive to and from school or just want to work at their pace.

Applicants are also asked about the teamwork and collaboration skills they acquired during the pursuit of their degree. This is because an online setting differs from that of a regular class where students engage in group-work and learn how to collaborate. To encourage the acquisition of this important skill, most online courses require students to collaborate with each other on joint assignments.

Finally, applicants can expect to be queried on their level of interaction with other students in their program. This is to gauge their level of exposure to different perspectives from around the world.

Are online degrees worth it?

An online degree is the perfect way to further one’s career. It is a convenient way to achieve one’s dreams at one’s own pace. Although it was regarded with suspicion in the past, it now holds a similar standing in the eyes of potential employers and hence improves a job applicant’s chances of getting that dream job.

All the same, there are some points employers will not overlook. Top on their list is an online school’s accreditation status followed by the job applicant’s reason for pursuing the degree. They will also want to know whether a potential employee can work in a team. With all these points satisfied, a job is as good as guaranteed.