Welcome to another review article for Online MBA Course, at University of North Alabama’s Colleges of Business. You may also be interested to read our prior review on Online MBA Course at University of Phoenix. If your are looking for one of the best online MBA programs around, then read on.
Where is University of North Alabama?
The University of North Alabama is located in the city of Florence, which is located in the northwest corner of the State of Alabama. Florence has a magnificent history, and is situated on two lakes formed by Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) dams on the Tennessee River and is, therefore, an important point for anglers, boaters, and water sports enthusiasts. Also there are many public parks and picnic areas available to our students and their families.
The University of North Alabama occupies a beautiful campus on 130 acres in a residential section of Florence, Alabama. Florence, located just north of the Tennessee River, is the largest city in a four-city area that includes Tuscumbia, Sheffield, and Muscle Shoals, all located south of the river. The entire metropolitan area has a combined population in excess of 134,000. Since Florence is the hub of the metropolitan economic area, it provides a great number of retail establishments for shopping and a wide array of restaurants for dining. Additionally, there are many first-rate health care facilities providing top-notch health care. The UNA's initial campus facility master plan was developed by world famous Frederick Law Olmsted architectural firm who designed New York City's Central Park.
Online MBA at the College of Business at University of North Alabama
The Colleges of Business at University of North Alabama has a long tradition of offering certified MBA programs for those who are seeking for better career advancement. The certified MBA programs offered by University of North Alabama’s Colleges of Business is one of the best online MBA programs around, has quite a few specialisation or as they term it as concentration, namely, in accounting, information systems, international business, finance and health care management.
The certified Online MBA course offered by University of North Alabama Colleges of Business is suitable for students of various backgrounds. Students with a degree from other fields of studies may need to fulfil some other prerequisite requirement.
An interesting feature of the certified MBA program offered by the University of North Alabama’s Colleges of Business is that students may chose to enrol to attend class on-campus, online or combining the two approaches. The quality of the MBA online course is similar to the traditional MBA course, and students are advised to select the approach most appropriate to their lifestyle and commitment.
University of North Alabama Colleges of Business requires that prospect students to be able to demonstrate a satisfactory background in either accounting principles, economic principles, statistical and quantitative methods, financial management, information systems, management principles and marketing principles from their work experience in order to be admitted into the best online MBA programs. However, they are options available for those students who do not have such background.
Online MBA Course Curriculum at University of North Alabama’s Colleges of Business
For qualified students for the certified online MBA course, the program consists of 33 semester hours. Effectively from Fall 2008, all MBA specialisations or concentrations consist of eight core courses and three elective courses. The on-campus accounting concentration has a different requirement.
The MBA Core Courses offered by University of North Alabama’s Colleges of Business are:
• Cost for Management Decision Analysis (not open to MBA-Accounting majors)
• Enterprise Systems Analysis
• Managerial Economics
• Financial Management
• Marketing Strategy
• Quantitative Methods
• Organizational Behavior
• Management Policy
MBA students are further required to complete different electives based on the concentration or specialization that they choose.
Students who wished to pursue their certified MBA program using the traditional method usually start in August, January or June. The typical course meets one evening per week for a 16-week semester.
Online MBA course students start their certified MBA program in August, January or June. Classes are conducted using a combination of on-line instructions and lectures in digital format.
Admission Process for Online MBA Course at University of North Alabama’s College of Business
The followings describe the admission process for an Online MBA Course at the University of North Alabama’s Colleges of Business. Step 1 of the process involves submitting a formal application. All application forms with official transcripts should be filed with the Admission Department of the university. There are also requirements on GMAT, GRE and TOEFL scores, and MBA students are advised to check with the university in details on these admission requirements.
Step 2 of the admission process for an Online MBA course at the University of North Alabama’s Colleges of Business involves registering for the classes. This should be done after your application has been accepted.
Students for the Online MBA course at University of North Alabama’s College of Business are also advised to review the course schedule for a listing of upcoming sessions. Students may register online for the classes.
Most students register for two courses per session. However, it may also be a good idea for starting students to take just a single course. This will enable
you to settle comfortably into your program and gain a sense of what is expected of you.
Cost of Online MBA Course at University of North Alabama’s College of Business
The cost of each semester hour of credit is $320 or $960 per course (for year 2008). Tuition payment is due at the time of registration and can be paid by a check or major credit card. There are also other fees and charges which is non-refundable. These include application fee, late registration fee, change of course fee, graduation fee and transcript of credit fee.
Payment is due at the time of registration and can be paid by check or major credit card. Under special and unusual circumstances, the University of North Alabama may accept payments by instalment.
Institutional Accreditation or Recognition
University of North Alabama are accredited by the following accreditation agencies:
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)
Other Accreditations
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (AACN). Accrediting Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). American Chemical Society (ACS). Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA). Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), Commission on Accreditation. National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), Commission on Accreditation. National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Doing an Online MBA Course from one of the best online MBA programs at University of North Alabama's College of Business may a right decision for you, and you are advised to find out more details.
Online MBA at University of North Alabama Colleges Review
Review of Best Online MBA Programs at University of Phoenix - An Honest Review
An Honest Review of the Best Online MBA Programs at University of Phoenix
This article is a review of one of the Best Online MBA Programs at University of Phoenix. We have published some student’s reviews of Online MBA Course of other universities. While most of these reviews are positive, we have found that students’ review about the best online MBA programs at University of Phoenix contains almost equally positive and negative reviews.
Some students had even established a website just for the purpose of criticizing and reviewing the online MBA at University of Phoenix. We shall publish both positive and negative reviews, but first, let’s read more about the University of Phoenix.
University of Phoenix was founded in 1976. They were one of the first universities to be accredited to offer online programs via the Internet. They claimed that their “commitment to educational excellence and unsurpassed student service” has enabled them to be the leading accredited university offering one of the best online MBA programs in the United States (US).
University of Phoenix is largest private university in the US; with over 17,000 highly qualified instructors, 170 campuses, and Internet delivery worldwide. They boast that they had more than 171,000 working graduates since 1976.
Being the one of the first university to be accredited for online course, University of Phoenix definitely has the advantage over other universities when it comes to offering one of the best online MBA programs. They had learnt a lot from their experience of running online education.
Many of the curriculums of online MBA programs offered by University of Phoenix were created in cooperation with business and community leaders. This enabled them to provide one of the best online MBA programs that provide skills and expertise that are high in demand by the MBA market. They also continually update their program to reflect the changes in the industry.
The followings are what University of Phoenix listed as the benefits of studying with them that makes their program one of the best online MBA programs in US:
• Attend class at times and places that fit your schedule.
• Complete 100% of your education via the Internet, including all administration, registration, and book buying.
• Earn your online education degree in two or three years.
• Take classes one at a time for 5 to 6 weeks each, so you can focus on each subject.
• Acquire skills and expertise that are in high demand with programs that are continually updated.
• Learn from the most effective combination of theory and practical experience; all faculty hold a master’s or doctoral degree and work in the fields they teach.
• Learn with other experienced professionals from various corporations and organizations across the country, and around the world.
• Apply your coursework immediately in your work environment.
• Benefit from the nation’s leading online university, whose online format has proven successful for thousands of graduates since 1989.
• Professional training and previous education can be used to fulfill some credit requirements.
• Financing is available.
• Tuition costs may be partially tax-deductible.
• University of Phoenix college education qualifies for most employer reimbursement plans.
University of Phoenix Online offers a number of online MBA programs. By enabling students to study their online MBA course and complete their coursework through email and internet, students can remain committed to their personal and work responsibilities while studying for their online MBA course at the same time.
Accreditation of Online MBA Course at University of Phoenix
Online MBA Course offered by University of Phoenix is an accredited MBA program accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, North Central Association. To understand more on how an accreditation agency accredits its MBA program, please read How AMBA Accredits Its MBA Programs.
How Online MBA Course works at University of Phoenix
The followings describe how Online MBA Course offered by University of Phoenix works. Students can complete 100% of their MBA program online. They provide software where students may retrieve lectures, questions and assignment from the instructor.
Students also have full access to online research libraries and services. They can also interact with other MBA graduates and working professionals. All interaction with the instructor and other MBA graduates or professionals are done through internet, so a student can just participate at his convenience. Students who study Online MBA course at University of Phoenix no longer need to rush from office for a night class. Students can also take breaks in between the courses.
However, University of Phoenix cautions its students that as one of the best online MBA programs in the US, their Online MBA Course is of high standards and therefore demands high level of discipline on the side of the students. It will be a challenge to MBA students to quickly assimilate new ideas, evaluate complex data, think creatively and communicate effectively.
The Aim of Online MBA Course at University of Phoenix
The aim of an Online MBA Course offered by University of Phoenix is to enhance the management skills and to help students to function effectively within an organization. MBA students learn to solve problems related to crisis management, profit growth and change leadership. The Master of Business Administration program at University of Phoenix used problem-based learning approach to train students in their communication, creativity, information utilization, and critical thinking skills.
MBA students at University of Phoenix are assessed on the basis of their use of the problem solving process, as well as their communication and critical thinking skills during their presentation.
Online MBA Course Curriculum at University of Phoenix
The MBA consists of 39 credit hours and includes three proficiency courses which may be satisfied using an undergraduate business degree, undergraduate coursework or graduate coursework. Students may also waive an additional nine credits using graduate courses and may qualify for a 21-credit hour residency.
The Cost of Online MBA Course at University of Phoenix
University of Phoenix claims that the cost of an online MBA course offered by them is less than half of that of a normal private university. In addition, students can complete their course a lot sooner than other universities, which mean that the students can realize their return on investment a lot earlier as well.
University of Phoenix offers flexible payment scheme where students can pay for their courses one course at a time, rather than for the entire semester. This can helps students manage their cash flow and meets personal budget. There is also the option to pre-pay the entire tuition to guarantee that the rate will not be raised during the entire duration of MBA studies.
University of Phoenix also offers MBA financing for working moms and students, even the non-needy ones. They also have a refund policy for MBA students whose studies were interrupted due to unforeseen circumstances.
Students’ Review about Online MBA Course at University of Phoenix
On the following section, we shall highlight some students’ review on online MBA course offered by University of Phoenix, extracted from Rateitall dot com.
Former students, JC15 wrote, “University of Phoenix was a surprising disappointment… I enrolled and was accepted into the MBA program and was greeted by many happy, helpful people that went the extra mile to get me enrolled in the university. Unfortunately, by my 4th class I was fully aware of a frustrating trend that my fellow classmates also commented on regularly.
“The professors are more of a conversation mediator among the students than an actual professor. Assignments were passed down, but when asked to clarify the assignment because the syllabus had contradicting, poorly worded, information, my professors regularly responded.... ‘refer to the syllabus’ ....but wait, the syllabus IS the question. It never seemed to matter. The biggest issue I had with University of Phoenix is that the professors really didn't seem to care…
“As for the program as a whole, it is organized in a semi-structured manner. Finding your way through the site is above average and the tools provided (such as the writing center) are great! The materials being kept online is a bit cumbersome. Personally I like to have books I can flip through, highlight things, or be able to keep my finger on a page to flip back and forth as I dwell into a concept. Ebooks, are less friendly in this fashion. Plan on taking a lot of notes as your read or you'll be lost when you have to quote the text”
MBA student, JR97 wrote: “The University of Phoenix style requires maturity and personal dedication I don't think most 19 year olds are capable of… My experience with the enrollment, academic, and financial counsellors has been great… My instructors have all been satisfactory for the most part. Timely feedback on written assignments is sometimes lacking and that effects end of course work a lot of the time. But I have yet to have an instructor I felt earned negative reviews in the end of course surveys…
“I guess if I were to put it simply, University of Phoenix is NOT for those with poor writing, learning, research, and social skills. The onus is on the student to learn and work both individually and within a team. University of Phoenix is definitely not for everybody. But for those who work and have families, University of Phoenix provides an alternative to get or continue education.”
Online MBA student, Aeroproof, wrote: “My experience at University of Phoenix has been quite rewarding both on a personal and professional level… You must be stubbornly determined to stay the course and finish the program. Yes, the learning team environment has pros and cons, but what learning model is perfect?
“… One negative issue I have with the school is the incessant online marketing campaign. In some ways potential students can view this negatively and may give the appearance of lowering academic rigor and quality, which is not the case in the MBA program. Hence, I lowered my rating to four stars…
“In terms of promotional opportunities, I interviewed for an internal position with my company and I received a substantial increase in salary (double digit) and responsibility. After graduation, I still keep in touch with many colleagues and the student alumni association…
“There will always be negative people, especially with the current paradigm shift occurring in academia. This pattern is typical of new issues that arise with the advent of technology and education is no different. Consider the evolution of other issues (i.e. workplace, political, economic) that have changed over the past generation. Initially change is resisted, evolves over a period of time and eventually become a standard policy or procedure. Furthermore, at minimum verify the online program is regionally accredited. I wish you the best of luck in your future education. My graduate education at University of Phoenix has served me well thus far.”
So, while there are plenty of negative review about Online MBA Course offered by University of Phoenix, there are equally that many of positive review about the course. We advise our readers to do extensive research to find out for themselves if studying for an Online MBA Course at University of Phoenix is really for them. You may also like to read other Students’ Review on Online MBA Course.
AMBA Accredited MBA Programs
If you are considering an accredited Online MBA Course, then there is a high likelihood that you shall be looking for AMBA accredited MBA programs or MBA accredited by other accrediting agencies.
The Association of MBAs, or better known as AMBA in short, was established in 1967 by eight MBA graduates from Wharton and Harvard. They are the advocate of MBA and they provide accreditation services for MBA programmes, including online MBA course, for course providers throughout the world.
The accreditation service provided by AMBA is internationally recognised as an acceptable global standard for all Masters of Business Administration (MBA), Doctorates in Business Administration (DBA) and Masters in Business and Management (MBM) programmes. Their accrediting services currently covers MBA, DBA and MBM programmes at 145 business schools in 68 countries.
In addition, AMBA also offer professional membership for MBA graduates and students. Their membership network currently includes 9000 members living in 88 countries. AMBA provide support to prospective MBA students, graduates and employers. AMBA’s vision is to become the international authority on business and marketing education.
AMBA offers independent quality assessment on online MBA course offered by providers. They are focused on international accreditation and design their criteria to be applicable to business schools around the world.
AMBA began their MBA accreditation services since the early 1980s. They are currently accredit MBA programs at more than 140 schools in over 65 countries, worldwide. The Online MBA Course at Aberdeen Business School is one such example of AMBA accredited program. Any college who wished to have their online MBA course accredited are advised to contact the association directly.
AMBA’s latest accreditation criteria, was launched in March 2005, and focus on every aspects of MBA course provision, including online MBA course. In the context of an online MBA course, these accreditation criteria include:
The College or University offering the online MBA course
The college or university offering an accredited MBA program should have a clear strategy and mission. They must also be explicitly expressed and regularly updated. AMBA require that this college or university have very clear understanding of the market for the online MBA course that they offers.
The Faculty offering the online MBA course
The faculty that offers the Masters of Business Administration courses, including Online MBA Course, should be have sufficient resources for all its activities. The faculty should ensure the institution is of national or international standing. Their staff should also be credible in terms of academic qualifications, ability to teach and quality of research.
Students of the Online MBA Course
All students that are registered or admitted into accredited MBA programs must have certain minimum years of working experience. AMBA requires that the college or university offering the accredited MBA programs show evidence on admission standards, which should include academic criteria and work experience. AMBA also has a criteria for some minimal intake of MBA students per year.
Curriculum of the Online MBA Course
AMBA requires that the curriculum of the accredited MBA programs to be generalist in nature and cover core business skills. These include marketing, economic and legal environment, accounting, finance, organisational theory and etc. This online MBA course curriculum should also reflect international aspect of business, and should also pay attention to ethical and social issues.
Assessment on the Online MBA Course
Assessment refers to the learning outcomes of the online MBA course. AMBA states that individual examinations should play a significant role in any such scheme since they are seen as testing intellectual rigour under controlled conditions. However, they also welcome any innovative form of assessment.
Additional Factors for an Accredited MBA Programs
They are also other additional factors for the accreditation such as the availability of language teaching, library and computer facilities and international contacts.
The followings describe the accreditation process for an MBA program.
The first step of the accreditation process involves an initial discussion with the college or university seeking accreditation for its MBA program. During this discussion, it is established whether it is appropriate for the institution to be invited into candidacy for the accreditation.
The next step involve self-audit conducted by the college or university. There are established guidelines on what need to be done or achieved during the self-audit. Once the self-audit is satisfactory conducted, the institution shall request for an assessment visit.
The third step involves the assessment visit by AMBA. This usually takes one and a half days, and it follows a pre-arranged agenda. The assessment team comprise of four to five members from AMBA. This assessment team is always mutually agreed with the Institution.
Following the assessment visit, a report is prepared for the Association’s International Accreditation Advisory Board (IAAB), which will recommend:
i) accreditation for the maximum period of 5 years;
ii) accreditation for a period less than 5 years with conditions attached to the extension of that period to the full 5 year term; or,
iii) non-accreditation, with reasons given for this decision
Accreditation is valid for a period up to a maximum of five years after which the institution would be invited to submit an application for re-accreditation.
In cases where the IAAB cannot endorse the findings of the Assessment Team’s report, or where the institution appeals against the outcome, the decision will be referred to the Association’s International Management Board (IMB).
If, during the cycle of accreditation validity, any circumstances arise which adversely affect the accredited MBA programme, the IMB reserve the right to either suspend or cancel the accreditation award.
Top 40 Distance Learning MBA or Online MBA Programs with AMBA Accreditation
The followings are the MBA Courses accredited by AMBA that has made it to the Top 40 ranking of Distance Learning or Online MBA listed by the Financial Times 2008 ranking:
MBA at Open University Business School, UK
Global Distance Learning MBA at Henley Management College, UK
MBA at Manchester Business School, UK
The Warwick MBA by Distance Learning at Warwick Business School
MBA in International Management, Royal Holloway, University of London, UK
The Durham MBA, Durham Business School, UK
Distance Learning MBA, Bradford School of Management, UK
Strathclyde Flexible Learning MBA at University of Strathclyde Business School, UK
eMBA and MBA Oil and Gas Management at Aberdeen Business School, Robert Gordon University, UK
The Surrey MBA at University of Surrey, School of Management, US
Euro*MBA at Euro*MBA Consortium in France, Netherlands, Poland, Spain & Germany
MBA (Distance Learning) at Aston Business School, Aston University, UK
With an understanding on how AMBA accredits its MBA programs, we trust that you are able to choose your Online MBA Course wisely. You may also want to read other students review on MBA course that they are attending.
Students Review on Online MBA Course
Before you sign up for an Online MBA Course, you may want to read through some student’s review about the Online MBA Course.
Most of the students who signed up for an MBA online, wanted to earn the MBA online but simply do not have the time needed demanded by a typical graduate school. If you are one of those people, then studying for an online MBA course may be the answer for you.
Most review by students agreed that an online MBA program is a viable way to earn the degree. Online MBA course accommodates working adults by offering flexible schedules, online study groups, and one-on-one chat sessions with professors.
In fact one students reviewed that he can attend class at two in the morning, which is very convenient to him. Many online MBA course do not require students to be ever on the actual campus. MBA courses at Robert Kennedy College and MBA courses at Aberdeen Business School are such examples. There are also others that require students to spend at least one semester on the campus. The students studying for all these online courses seem to be giving very good review about the courses that they are attending.
Online MBA course also allows you to take classes at your own pace. If you take two classes, spring, summer and fall, you can likely complete the whole MBA degree in 20 months. If you slow it down a bit, you may complete it in four years. You can also speed it up if you wanted to. This is also another aspect that most students gave positive review about the online courses that they are attending.
In another student’s review, Mike revealed that he enjoys doing his MBA online because it mimics a medium that he is very familiar with. He spends hours online on his work, and he wanted the facility, convenience that he is so used to in his works.
However, online MBA course is not for everyone. Review received from some students doing their MBA online has not been so positive for those who would prefer the traditional classroom learning and interaction with lecturers and friends.
The followings are some other students’ review about the Online MBA course that they are attending or completed:
MBA graduate, Michael from Chicago reviewed, “I have just completed my MBA from Keller Online. Their courses were excellent along with the teachers. The web site was easy to navigate and allowed for email, chat rooms and lecture notes along with other material posted by the instructor. The biggest improvement came when the final exams were put online, before you had to arrange to take the final at one of their facilities. I agree with the other posts that you need good time management and be a self-starter. Good Luck!”
Another MBA student from Massachusetts reviewed: “I did my undergraduate (BA) work at the University of Owell. As I neared completion, I took two classes that were for that time frame, online. They were really more telnet than anything - but I enjoyed it.
“Then, as technology and my career progressed, I began a second degree with UML (by now Univerity of Massachusetts at Lowell) and did the majority of the classes on line toward a BS in Information Systems.
“At the time, I was a Director of IT. Mid-way - I was encouraged to get a masters degree and work toward a promotion in my company and I bit. By this point, I was hooked on the on line educational model. I converted the BS credits to a certificate in IT and did an MBA on line exclusively via University of Phoenix. It was challenging material, demanding, exciting and supportive. It was not problematic in terms of technology, people, etc.
“The only issue I faced was that the program was more intense than the online environment at UML (in part because of the compressed timelines). Once I was acclimated to the pace, however, it was great. I would do it again in a heart beat and am now finishing that BS at UML with only 3 classes to go - all online.”
Another MBA student from Chicago reviewed, “I am taking a program through Keller Graduate School of Management and am 3 classes into it. So far so good, but it is a lot of work and requires great time mgt skills.”
Penny, a current MBA student from Kingston reviewed, “I'm a senior systems analyst currently pursuing an MBA by Distance Education with the University of Leicester, with a specialization in Information Technology Management. I've just been doing it for 3 months but you have to have good time management skills to pursue a distance course while working. School assignments due, boss pressuring you to deliver, it can be stressful, but at the end of the day it will all be worth it.
Joe, an MBA student reviewed, “With University of Southern Australia offering MBA studies online, I was able to conveniently continue and complete my MBA after I had moved interstate (and even when I was overseas briefly). Offering the MBA online gives great flexibility to continue study no matter where a person's career takes them around the world.
“With so many organisations now going global, and so many collaborations performed internationally, teamwork and communications are increasingly being done remotely and electronically. Communicating online for group work projects and assignments is increasingly becoming typical of how many people conduct their professional business, and helps to develop the skills that will become increasingly important in future."
Jathin, an MBA student reviewed, “My MBA experience at University of Southern Australia changed my business outlook and structured my thinking process. The campus facilities, staff/faculty contributions and participative class discussions, all made the experience an invaluable learning process.
“The MBA provides the right managerial tools to identify the problems, analyze the situation and formulate the appropriate strategies to deliver the best customer value, yield higher than average stakeholder returns, and ensure employee satisfaction.”
Suzanne, a working mother reviewed, "As a working mother and wife my time is extremely valuable. The UW Consortium online MBA program allows me to work classes around my schedule, advance in my career, and still have time for my family."
Joshua, an MBA student reviewed, "I was really impressed at the effort made by Liberty University’s staff to keep in touch with me through the entire admissions process, making sure that I had the necessary resources available to me as I sought financial aid. It is a service that has continued long after my admittance and is quite unlike that of my experience as an undergraduate student of another university.
“Having so many financial options available has allowed me to afford my education. Not only did I get aid through means of a grant and loans, but I was also able to take advantage of the new Liberty alumni benefit scholarship. In addition, I also received outside scholarship money through corporate assistance at my work—a key factor in my decision to go back to school."
David, an MBA student reviewed, “When I graduated from college, the furthest thing from my mind was going back to school for graduate studies. However, as a Certified Public Accountant, I began to realize the need to continue my education with an MBA in order to distinguish myself from my colleagues….After looking into several online programs from respected institutions, I was most impressed with Liberty University.
“The three most important things that impressed me about Liberty were the challenging programs, excellent professors, and spiritual perspective. The online program took my book knowledge and real-life experiences and projected them beyond what I thought imaginable."
Kellie, an MBA student reviewed, “After being out of school for ten years before pursuing my MBA degree, I was very overwhelmed with the online setting of distance learning. Two and a half years later, I am graduating with a 3.94 GPA. This has been an awesome milestone in my life."
Scott Campbell did his distance learning MBA from University of Leicester. This is what he has to say about the program.
“After doing some research it became apparent that the University of Leicester was a very good institution, I believe at the time it was nineteenth in the country. It seemed that the university had an exceptional distance learning programme, with dedicated staff, workshops and support through Blackboard. This was well above any other institution
I came across. I had also spoken to a number of contacts that had done, or were doing distance learning courses, and none of their courses could compare with what Leicester
was offering.
“My main reason for studying was to expand my knowledge and skills; the second reason was for career progression. An MBA is a means of bringing all of that together and testing myself to see what I can achieve.
“The summer schools are a great opportunity to interact with the lecturers and to network and meet fellow students, it also allows you to feel a part of the University. Blackboard is a fantastic tool and the electronic library is available to use for study as well as work.
“I would recommend the programme because of the dedicated staff and the systems in
place. As a distance learning student at Leicester, you feel a part of the process and feel valued.
“I have no doubt that obtaining an MBA will have a significant impact on my career.”
We believe that the students’ review about their Online MBA Course is helpful to you in making your MBA choices. The benefits of MBA and getting an AMBA accredited MBA programs may also be an important criteria as to why you want to pursue an MBA, and all these should also be taken into account.
MBA Course Review at Aberdeen Business School, Robert Gordon University
If you are considering to study for an Online MBA Course in Aberdeen Business School, Robert Gordon University, you have came to the right place. This article reviews the Online MBA Course in Aberdeen Business School, Robert Gordon University.
Robert Gordon University is based in Aberdeen, the third largest city in Scotland. The Robert Gordon University’s history was so diverse and deep that it is difficult to trace its beginning. Its founder, Robert Gordon was born in 1668 in Aberdeen. When he died, he willed his entire estate to build a residential school for educating young boys.
In 1881, this residential school was converted to Robert Gordon’s College. This college went on to develop into various type of college before being the university status in 1992 and Robert Gordon University was born.
The Robert Gordon University is well reputed for its pragmatic approach to its Online MBA course in Scotland. Robert Gordon University is also internationally recognised for responding to the need of its students. The Aberdeen Business School has long known the value of work placements as a significant feature of all its courses.
Aberdeen Business School is one of the leading providers of management and professional education in Scotland. They have over 3,000 UK and international students on their undergraduate and postgraduate programme.
The Aberdeen Business School of Robert Gordon University was founded in 1965. Aberdeen Business School’s strong links with industry, commerce and the public sector enable them to ensure that their Online MBA Course is practical to the industry. According to The Times magazine in June 2006, Robert Gordon University has one of the best graduate employability records of all UK universities. Robert Gordon University was ranked 56th making it the top new university in Scotland and third overall in the UK.
Online MBA course offered by Aberdeen Business School is an Association of MBA (AMBA) accredited MBA programs since 1999 and is one of the largest providers of management education in the UK. In March 2007, The Financial Times the Online MBA Course provided by Aberdeen Business School as one of the Top 32 online MBAs available globally.
What are the benefits of pursuing a MBA Course at Aberdeen Business School? There are nine listed reasons why you should pursue for an Online MBA Course at Aberdeen Business School. There are:
Excellent teaching facilities
International exchange Summer Schools
Interactive six week business simulation exercise
Ten week internship in a local organisation
Free laptop with wireless capability for all full time students, to keep on completion of studies with us
Use of our award winning Virtual Campus for all Online MBA students
Access to the Scottish Fresh Talent Initiative, leading to two years additional visa stay
Mentoring and career guidance
Membership of the Aberdeen Business School Alumni Association and networking opportunities
What are the criteria to do an Online MBA Course at Aberdeen Business School, Robert Gordon University? The Online MBA Course is a challenging masters' level programme demanding a combination of intellectual abilities and business experience. To gain admission applicants will normally need to hold a first degree, at honours level at a top class banding, have at least three years relevant business experience and where appropriate, be able to demonstrate competence in written and oral English.
There are various options to for an Online MBA Course financing available to prospect students. These include:
Scholarships
The Aberdeen Business School is able to offer a limited number of scholarships to assist exceptionally able students who wish to undertake its International Masters of Business Administration programme on a full-time basis.
Bursary
Hobsons is offering several bursaries for international students wishing to study an Masters of Business course. You can find out about the Hobsons Bursary and how to apply for it by looking at Hobsons MBA Course.
Loan Scheme
The Association of MBAs in conjunction with NatWest Bank have a loan scheme available.
The followings are an overview of the Online MBA Course offered by Aberdeen Business School, Robert Gordon University.
Aberdeen Business School’s AMBA accredited online MBA course commenced in September 2005. The online MBA course has been listed in The Financial Times as one of the Top 40 Distance Learning MBAs available globally in 2008. Business Week has also recognised its Online MBA Course in the 2008 ranking list.
The online MBA course offered by Aberdeen Business School, Robert Gordon University has been developed specifically to provide an exciting opportunity for those unable to attend either the full or part-time taught programmes. This Online MBA Course also provides the opportunity for students to progress through the programme at a pace commensurate with their own personal circumstances.
The online MBA course provided by Aberdeen Business School, Robert Gordon University uses a dynamic learning environment which focuses on the development of Strategic Leaders who can achieve beneficial and meaningful change in international businesses.
The online MBA programme is delivered electronically through the Robert Gordon University’s award winning ‘Virtual Campus’ and, by the nature of its format, recreates the same challenging interactive format as for the taught programmes.
The material and contents of the online programmes are the same as for the taught programme offered by Aberdeen Business School, Robert Gordon University and are co-ordinated by the same subject specialists. In addition all of the course materials are provide as part of the course fee.
Students of the Online MBA Course will study the following core modules:
• Business Economics
• Human Resources Management
• Marketing Decisions
• Operations Management: A Supply Chain Approach
• Knowledge Management
• Financial Decision Making
• Strategic Management
There are two further elective modules and a dissertation. Students are required to attend a Leadership Week in year 2 and will have the option of participating in a study tour to IAE Aix en Provence Université in the South of France.
The followings list some profile of students who are studying for an Online MBA Course at Aberdeen Business School, Robert Gordon University.
Men to Women = 70:30
Average Age = 39
Industry profile: Oil and Gas, Media, Banking and Finance, Pharmaceuticals, Manufacturing, Telecommunication amongst others.
Average management experience = 11 years
Country profile: 24 different countries with 60% from Europe and 20% from Africa and 20% from Rest of World.
Cohort size: 25-40
Tuition Fees offered by Aberdeen Business School, Robert Gordon University
The fees for the course have been set at £10,392 payment of which can be spread over the duration of the programme.
Year 1 £ 4293
Year 2 £ 4293
Year 3 £ 1806
Tuition fees can be paid by instalments in any one year. The above fees are for 2007/8, and are reviewed annually.
Scholarships offered by Aberdeen Business School, Robert Gordon University
There are scholarships available for the most deserving candidates. Scholarships range from £500 to £3,000.
Prospect students are advised to contact Aberdeen Business School, Robert Gordon University for the latest information on its Online MBA Course.
Accredited Online MBA Programs
Those who are seeking for an Online MBA would most likely looking for accredited MBA programs. As a matter of fact, getting an accredited MBA programs may be at the top of your list. This may relate to why you pursue an MBA in the first place.
Which Online MBA Programs get Accredited?
Which Online MBA course gets accredited? To get accredited, the school that offers the Online MBA Accreditation must seek accreditation from an accreditation organization. This accreditation organization shall look at every detail of the school and the MBA programs to ensure that it meets the criteria.
It is not easy and it is an expensive process to have an online MBA course accreditated. Therefore, it can be considered as good benchmark for quality. If getting an accredited MBA programs is an important criteria for you, then you should do thorough research on this.
You may also need to consider if your potential employer put any importance of whether your online MBA course is an accredited one or not. The U.S. Department of Education provides a list of approved accrediting agencies, which in turn list the online MBA programs that is accredited.
How does MBA Programs get accredited?
How does an online MBA course get accredited? Accrediting agencies work closely with the college that is providing the Online MBA Course that is seeking accreditation. They establish the standard of evaluation. Based on this standards, the college or university shall work towards achieving this standard.
The MBA college then shall carry-out self evaluation to determine if they meet the standards set. If not, then they shall re-work their strategy and policies to ensure that they are meeting the accreditation standards.
When the MBA college or university feels that they are ready for an actual evaluation by the accrediting agency, they shall apply for the evaluation. The accredited agency shall carry out the evaluation based on the MBA course programs and also carry out an on-site evaluation. If the MBA college meets the criteria, then they shall be recommended to be accredited for the MBA programs.
The accrediting agencies are also required to re-evaluate the university periodically to ensure that they continuously meet the standards.
How Online MBA programs are Accredited in the United States (US)
In the United States, accreditation is carried out by private accreditation agencies. One such agency is the Universal Council for Online Education Accreditation (UCOEA).
The Universal Council for Online Education Accreditation was founded to help students in getting quality education online. It was founded with an aim to provide a platform for distance education institutions - established and developing - to judge their quality of educational service on the basis of sound educational standards and ethical business practices set by UCOEA. Its core function is to promote high quality distance education by identifying standards that outline the best educational practices.
As as independent, non-profit membership organization, the Council is responsible for the evaluation and accreditation of eligible online institutions, meeting the stringent standards.
How Online MBA programs are Accredited in the United Kingdom (UK)
There are basically two established accreditation agency which is the Association of MBAs (AMBA) and the Foundation for International Business Administration Accreditation (FIBAA).
The Association of MBAs was founded in 1967 by eight UK graduates from Harvard and Wharton. Realising the fundamental strength of the qualification in terms of business and leadership, but seeing little knowledge of it in Europe, they decided to form a lobby and membership group.
AMBA accreditation service is internationally recognised as the global standard for all Masters of Business Administration (MBA), Doctorates in Business Administration (DBA) and Masters in Business and Management (MBM) programmes. We currently accredit MBA, DBA and MBM programmes at 145 business schools in 68 countries.
The Foundation for International Business Administration Accreditation (FIBAA) accredits Bachelor and Master degrees in fields such as business administration, economics, business computing, engineering and business administration, business psychology, business law, etc. in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
Since 2003, FIBBA also accredits "Diploma" courses. FIBBA is usually the first stop for German Business School to look for an official accreditation of their MBA courses. Also several MBA programs in Austria and Switzerland are accredited by FIBBA.
There is also a need to understand that accreditation is a lengthy process. So the bottom line is to find an Online MBA Course that meet provide you with the maximum benefits of an MBA.
You may also wish to read AMBA Accredited MBA Programs and AACSB Online MBA Program.
Online MBA Course Review – University of Wales, Robert Kennedy College
This article is a review on Online MBA Course offered by Robert Kennedy College, University of Wales. Robert Kennedy College is located in Zurich, Switzerland and offers one of the best online MBA programs in Europe.
Robert Kennedy College was founded in 1998 as the first Swiss not-for-profit private college entirely dedicated to adult post graduate education at a distance. The college's mission is "to provide academic excellence in online distance education for students worldwide, through appropriate application of leading-edge technologies."
The University of Wales, founded in 1893, is second in the UK only to the University of London, in terms of full-time student numbers. At RKC you will experience Swiss Quality Education combined with British Tradition.
Student Centred Philosophy
At University of Wales, you are not treated as just a student but are part of their learning community-online. Hence, you can expect to get the most out of one of the best online MBA programs around.
State of the Art Technology
In pursuit of its commitment to provide exemplary services to its students, the Robert Kennedy College has tailor-made, state-of-the-art software for online MBA course delivery. Called "Online Campus", it is an all encompassing, interactive and easy-to-use software, which makes studying online MBA course an enjoyable experience and makes them one of the best online MBA programs.
World Class Faculty
Robert Kennedy College at University of Wales employs highly qualified faculty graduated from leading Universities like Harvard Business School, Stanford University, Oxford University, New York University, Wharton to name just a few, to carry out the Online MBA Course.
Although the one week residencies are optional for the Online MBA Course, they represent a unique opportunity for students to combine the online MBA course learning experience with a traditional class environment. They offer a vigorous but flexible online MBA learning program, enhanced by state-of-the-art online e-learning technology.
The Online MBA course has been designed specifically to take full advantage of Robert Kennedy College's unique delivery technology, and through a partnership with the University of Wales to lead to an online MBA degree that is fully accredited and will be recognised worldwide as one of the best online MBA programs.
The Online MBA course at Robert Kennedy College is a generalist program that provides professionals with the education they will need in challenging and demanding positions. It aims to produce qualified professionals equipped with the full range of skills needed to lead successful businesses.
The overall design aims of the Online MBA course are to:
Provide an underpinning of both the knowledge and skills needed by senior managers;
Provide an analytical and multi-perspective framework, to enable students to recognise, identify and evaluate key management issues which critically impact on organisational performance and strategic direction;
Enhance the student's ability to integrate into the strategic thinking, direction setting, planning and operation of the organisation;
Develop the students' ability to analyse management issues of relevance to their work by undertaking a piece of research which culminates in the completion of a dissertation;
Provide an opportunity for participants to make a contribution to the body of knowledge and understanding in the area of strategic management;
Encourage holistic thinking within the areas of Management and Business.
Learning Outcomes of the Online MBA course
On completion of the Online MBA course, students should be able to demonstrate:
Knowledge, understanding and skills appropriate to effective performance at senior management level in the following areas:
Marketing Management
Organisational Behaviour
Corporate Finance
Managerial Economics;
An understanding of the context within which strategic activity occurs and its role in achieving organisational objectives;
Advanced research and consultancy skills;
Contribution to organisational success by developing, delivering and managing high quality personnel and development policies.
The Online MBA course fits within the overall mission of Robert Kennedy College:to provide academic excellence in online distance education for students worldwide, through appropriate application of leading-edge technologies.
Recognition
The Online MBA course is validated and awarded by the University of Wales.
Duration of Online MBA Course at University of Wales
Minimum 2 years - Maximum 5 years
Delivery Method of the Online MBA Course
- 99% Online via Online Campus with intensive class discussion and collaboration
- 1% in a one week compulsory residency.
The College organise 5 residencies per year therefore you do have many opportunities to meet the mandatory residential requirements. You can opt to take more than one residency if you like.
Ranking of the Online MBA Course
Among the Top 32 Online MBA's in the World FT 2007 Distance Learning Survey, which makes them one of the best online MBA programs in Europe and around the world.
Tuition Fees for the Online MBA Course
14'000 CHF (Swiss Francs) includes libraries access, Online Campus, graduation fees, UoW matriculation fees. Payable in installments with no interest fees. (Approximately 14'300 USD / 9'050 EUR / 7'100 GBP)These fees are for the full course including all courses and the final dissertation.
Not included in these fees: Residency in Switzerland (one is compulsory) 1'000 CHF (Swiss Francs). Some Textbooks are not included (approx cost 450-600 Swiss Francs).
Selectivity Ratio for Online MBA Course
60% of the applicants are invited for an admission interview. Out of 7 applicants one is admitted to the Online MBA Course.
Majors and Specialisations of the Online MBA Course
over 15 specialisations to choose from.
Terms of Study for the Online MBA Course
Three terms per year (Hilary, Trinity and Michaelmas)
Accreditation of the Online MBA Course
This Programme is Validated and Awarded by the University of Wales. After successfully completing your studies at the Robert Kennedy College, you will receive a degree from the University of Wales which is duly Accredited by the British Government by means of a Royal Charter.
University of Wales degrees are recognised worldwide.
Online MBA Course Curriculum
Stage 1 of the Online MBA Course - eight taught modules
4 core subjects - mandatory
Organisational Behaviour
Financial Management
Entrepreneurship
Marketing Management
3 electives (Three electives, of which at least one must be a residency)
Electives (choose two)
Management of Technological Change
eBusiness
Applied Leadership
International Business Management
Contemporary Project Management (new course approved in April 2007)
Defining Excellence in Project Management (new course approved in April 2007)
Residential Electives (choose at least one)
Michael Porter on Corporate Strategy and Competitiveness (residency) (offered in affiliation with The Institute for Strategy and Competitiveness at Harvard Business School
The Art of Business (residency)
Investment Management (residency)
Capstone - mandatory
Strategic Management
Stage 2 of the Online MBA Course - individual dissertation
Dissertation work
The total study time for the Online MBA Course is based on the notion of 10 hours study per credit. For the 15-credit modules, the study time requirement is usually divided as follows:
50 hours textbook and other reading matter;
45 hours case preparation;
40 hours case and other class discussion on-line;
15 hours interim and final exam preparation.
Where the requirements differ from this standard, the rationale is made clear to students.
The dissertation for the Online MBA Course is an exception to this general principle, requiring a total of 600 hours of largely independent study time and a degree of direct supervisor contact, as follows:
25 hours direct supervisor contact;
500 hours independent studies hours;
75 hours directed studies hours.
If you are looking for one of the best online MBA programs in Europe, Wales MBA is a choice that you must definitely consider. Please visit the University website for the latest information on Online MBA Course offered by Robert Kennedy College, University of Wales.
Other online MBA reviews:
Online MBA at University of Phoenix
Benefits of Online MBA Course
Why do you wish to pursue an Online MBA Course? The followings are some of the most of the reason on why pursue an MBA:
- Online MBA course candidates are able to develop analytical skills to identify, analyze and resolve problems faced in management and business
- Online MBA course candidates are able to develop the skills of leading people and managing people
- Online MBA course candidates are able to develop a life-long personal and professional relationships with other students, which may turn out to be extremely useful business network.
Online MBA Course Benefit No. 1 - Analytical Skills
The forte of virtually all online MBA course is to be able to teach its students analytical skills in analyzing and addressing business problems. These problems range from more simple human resource problem such as maintaining harmonious working relationship within the organization to complex business decision such as investing million of dollars in a business venture.
In fact, survey results carried out on employers of online MBA graduates show that the attributes that they were most satisfied with is the analytical skill demonstrated by these online MBA graduates.
Therefore, any online MBA course that focus on the effectiveness of developing a student’s analytical skill can hardly go wrong. Big schools, small schools, well-known schools, and little-known schools - they all produce online MBA graduates who get high marks for analysis and technical competency.
Online MBA Course Benefit No. 2 - People Skills
The next important tangible benefit that you may derive from an online MBA course is the people skills. Soft management skills, interpersonal, people-management skills are all soft skills which are hard to be taught.
That is why it is important to choose an online MBA course with a detailed curriculum on people skills. The reality is that as business managers rise in their organizations and take on ever-greater responsibilities, the percentage of their time devoted to "people problems" increases exponentially.
The CFO of one of the world's largest soft-drink giants (one of only two), whose training had been in accounting, mentioned that 95 percent of his time was spent dealing with people problems; the financial issues had to be compacted into the remaining 5 percent. Hence you can see how important is the people skills in today’s business world.
Online MBA Course Benefit No. 3 - Business Networking
Of course, probably the most important and most enduring benefit for all online MBA graduates are the acquitances found during the program. The deep relationships with other members of the online MBA course had proven to be important business network to the life-time career of the graduate.
For those whose online MBA course failed to foster a strong sense of connection among their student colleagues, the entire online MBA experience is discounted as little more than a "hurdle" to have jumped over in pursuit of greater management responsibility, rather than as a time of personal growth, important learning and life-enhancing relationships.
Even though relationship building is very important to the online MBA experience, few courses actually make a conscious effort to facilitate that process. That failure diminishes the value of services rendered to their online MBA students, and accordingly leads to lower retention rates and a diminished sense of alumni loyalty and support once the students finish their programs.
This not only results in the loss for both programs and their students; it is a needless one.
Therefore, every credible online MBA course should facilitate this connection and networking. However, it takes more than merely providing forum space for students to discuss their problems; there should be organization of face-to-face meetings of some sort.
CONCLUSION
The decision to pursue an online MBA course is becoming increasingly more complicated in this era of business world. The demand of a good online MBA graduate is likely to increase over the years.
If you are still contemplating the online MBA experience, the choice among the different online MBA course will not likely yield a measurable difference in the mastery of technical and analytical skills. These skills are the hallmark of virtually every accredited program.
In contrast, the concurrent mastery of people-management, leadership, and teaming skills is a greater variable in choosing among the different online MBA course. Prospective MBA students should expect that - should demand that - from their online MBA course.
Online MBA Course - Why Pursue an MBA
Why do you need to pursue for an Online MBA Course? There are many reasons why someone would like to pursue an MBA Course online. Most of the times, many do it to pursue better career advancement, as better career advancement would eventually translate to better salary. Some others pursue it purely to enhance their knowledge.
They are also those who pursue a MBA course online in order to improve on their management skill. Whatever the reason, to pursue an MBA course requires a lot of commitment. It is therefore wise to give much consideration and planning before you decide to sign up.
Why do it online? With the technological advancement in computer and internet, it is easier to connect lecturer and students. An MBA course offered online allows the student to do it at their own time without needing to give up on their full-time job.
Do you really need an MBA? Consider this scenario. You have just been appointed the CEO of an education portal that provide an Online MBA Course. Where do you begin? Assuming that all the technological infra-structure for this Online MBA course is already in place, there are still plenty that you need to consider.
What about the funding for your Online MBA Course business? Do you borrow from the bank or do you raise it from the public? This is the accounting aspect of the business which you will need to handle.
How do you market your Online MBA course? Do you engage just an outside marketer? Do you market it online through the internet? How do you find students to sign-up for your course? This is the marketing aspect of your Online MBA Course business that you will need to handle.
Next, how does the economic situation of the day affect your business? As the CEO of the Online MBA Course, you are required to observe carefully how the economy of the world unfold and you need to understand its effect on your business. How do you generate profit in the long run when the economy is good? How do you survive in the short run when the economy is bad?
Then, there is also human resource issues that you need to handle. How do you employ the best staff to help you run your Online MBA Course business? How do you keep them motivated? You will soon realise that not all staff works just for salary. There may be conflicts between your staff. How do you keep them in a harmonious working relationship?
As your business grow, you may find yourself needing to make the decision if you wish to expand your business further. Supposed that someone offer you to expand your MBA Course business by building a campus. Does the money spent on building the campus justify the potential additional revenue from the business? Or, would it be a better choice to just expand your Online MBA Course business?
In any business that make money, there shall be competitor who would try to duplicate your success. How do you strategically position your Online MBA Course business ahead of your competitor? What if your competitor managed to provide the same course at a much lower cost. How do you negotiate with your course provider?
So you see, the business environment is always a dynamic and competitive. In order to constantly position your business, you will need all the management and financial knowledge. Therefore a good Online MBA Course should offer you with the following skills and knowledge:
- Marketing
- Accounting
- Financial
- Strategic Planning
- Economic
It should also train you with the analytical skills require to manage a successful business.
So, do come back for more articles on Online MBA Course.
