5 Premium Platforms for Learning an MBA Online

Studying for an MBA online is easier than ever these days. The problem you face is choosing the right platform that provides what you need. Cost versus quality, prestige against recognition, and flexibility over rigid study are all top concerns. So, where do you begin? There are many top-level online platforms you can use, but they all offer something different. From the most analytical programs to platforms offering innovation, here are some of the best to consider.

MBS Online – Ivy-League Level Networking

Coming from the Melbourne Business School, it doesn’t get much better than  MBS Online for an Ivy League-level education at an affordable cost. Further, the connections that MBS has mean you have access to a degree of networking that most students dream of. The digital MBA experience from MBS is second to none, especially when you consider how it mirrors elite campus education. Through live classes, collaboration, and leadership, this is a top-level MBA.

Pros:

• As a student of MBS, you will be matched with global executive and industry leaders.
• The quality of live and interactive classes rivals any in-person educational establishment.
• Doors will open to you due to the prestigious recognition that MBS can offer.

Cons:

• Programs are intense, so self-discipline and time management are essential.
• You may require some basic understanding of business fundamentals.
• Interactive sessions require a working knowledge of basic tech configuration.

The Melbourne Business School sits among the more prestigious institutions that offer an online MBA without sacrificing quality, while maximizing career outcome and networking potential.

Wharton Online – Finances and Analytics

Wharton needs no introduction, but you may not know the school offers a comprehensive online course for MBA students. Through an intensive online program, the legacy of Wharton is accessible to anyone in a full online format. Shaped by respected business professors, the program combines MBA fundamentals with complex analysis of financial systems for a deeper understanding of global business unmatched by almost every other school or online platform.

Pros:

• A focus on analysis, global economy, finance, and quantitative curriculum.
• Wharton is globally recognized for its excellence when it comes to business programs.
• Online students have access to Wharton’s incredible alumni support networks.

Cons:

• The prestige of Wharton means that the cost of tuition is relatively higher.
• Some courses that the school offers are not as flexible as other online platforms.
• Students are required to have excellent mathematical and analytical skills.

Wharton is a stunning business school with a focus on analysis and finance. However, the higher cost and mathematical skills required can be a barrier to entry for most students.

INSEAD Online – Global Business Perspective

INSEAD’s executive program has over 10,000 participants from over 3,800 companies., around the globe. As a world leader in MBA certification and online learning, you can unlock academic success as a business student with an MBA online course from INSEAD. With a focus on cross-cultural leadership, INSEAD offers a unique approach that prepares students for a broader business perspective related to wider global economies and more complex markets.

Pros:

• A unique curriculum based on global affairs rather than local or national.
• Global and diverse peer groups of students for enhanced collaboration.
• International students can benefit from highly flexible learning structures.

Cons:

• Live participation can be hampered by global time zone issues.
• The price of INSEAD’s courses is higher than that of some respected institutions.
• Because of the prestige of the school, admissions can be fairly competitive.

As a leader in business classes, INSEAD offers a diverse and global approach to learning. However, flexibility and collaboration can be somewhat hampered as a direct result. 

IE Business School – Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Catering to aspiring innovators and future business leaders, IE Business School focuses on current and future trends as part of the online MBA programs it offers. This is excellent for students engaged in cutting-edge methods over traditional ones, who want to innovate within specific sectors. This makes IEBS an excellent choice for aspiring leaders interested in scalable projects, digital transformation, and sustainability, all of which are valuable for startups.

Pros:

• A focused emphasis on entrepreneurial tendencies is valuable for startup leaders.
• The school uses cutting-edge technologies related to business tools.
• Students from all over the world attend this school, increasing valuable diversity.

Cons:

• The structure of classes and time zone issues means they can be out of sync.
• Students hit the ground running, which can be confusing and off-putting for some.
• Startup-focused modules may not appeal to students who want traditional business.

Startups are essential for world economies, and IE Business School delivers the modules you need for modern business. This can, however, be off-putting for traditional business learning.

London Business School – Strategic Leadership

For high-impact MBA programs that hit hard but deliver results, the London Business School might be for you. More than standard MBA modules, you will also receive tutorials in leadership, strategy, and consultancy. These are highly sought-after skills that employers look for beyond certification and will enhance your career prospects. With an analytical approach to European business networks, you can expect LBS to also aid with placement within advisory roles.

Pros:

• London Business School has an unrivalled reputation within European markets.
• Modules include practical strategy simulations based on real-world scenarios.
• LBS has solid business connections and networks for recruitment opportunities.

Cons:

• All courses are based on GMT time zones, so aren’t suitable for international students.
• The prestige of the school means the admissions process is highly selective.
• As a European standard school for business, the costs are higher than other platforms.

If you want prestige combined with world-class connections and networking, then London Business School is just what you need, provided you meet the requirements and costs.

Summary

MBS Online offers Ivy League prestige at an affordable price when studying for an MBA online. However, INSEAD can offer a more diverse and global exposure when learning about business. But if you want prestige and European connections, London Business School is a better option. Of course, flexibility and affordability are always considerations that you must make when deciding upon an online learning platform. So carefully analyze all of your available options.

Photo by Mikhail Nilov