How to Choose an Online MBA Program That Advances Your Career

Whether you’re looking to climb the ladder in your current field, pivot to an entirely new industry, launch a business, or simply gain the skills and credentials to compete in a changing market, an online MBA can help you get there. People pursue the degree for all kinds of reasons, and they come from all kinds of backgrounds, from finance and healthcare to engineering, education, and beyond.

Whatever your motivation, one challenge remains the same: with so many programs available, choosing the right online MBA isn’t always straightforward. The decision involves more than picking a well-known school. It means finding a program that fits your career goals, your schedule, your budget, and your vision for the future.

This post breaks down the key factors to consider when evaluating online MBA programs. You’ll learn what to look for in areas like curriculum, specializations, faculty, accreditation, and career support so you can make an informed decision and choose a degree that truly works for you.

Define Your Career Objectives and MBA Goals

Take an honest look at your current role. What skills have you gained? Do you have a clear path to advancement, or is there something holding you back? Would you prefer to stay on your career path or switch to something else entirely?

For example, let’s say you work as a financial analyst. In this role, you’ve learned how to prepare financial budgets and review past performance. You’d know your way around a spreadsheet and your company’s accounting software.¹ But if you aspire to a more data-oriented, strategic leadership role, you could benefit from training in market analysis, data visualization, and storytelling. These skills are highly valued for financial management and investment banking roles.²

With your ideal career path in mind, you can search for online MBA programs that develop the skills you’d need to qualify for the role you envision.

Assessing Time, Cost, and Format Flexibility

Working professionals often choose an online MBA for its flexibility. However, an online MBA can differ in several key areas, including:

• Delivery format: Classes may be asynchronous, taught at specific times, or include some on-site coursework
• Time requirements: Programs can take between one and five years to complete³
• Cost: Universities may charge a flat fee for online MBAs or follow traditional in-state/out-of-state pricing

When searching for a suitable online MBA, consider your availability. Can you commit to courses delivered at specific times, or do you need an asynchronous approach, where you can attend classes at a time that’s convenient for you?

Also, think about the program’s length. An accelerated online MBA can usually be completed within two years, but it may require much of your spare time. Traditional programs provide more flexibility, but it will take longer to receive your credential.³

Graduate degrees require a financial commitment, so carefully evaluate tuition costs and auxiliary expenses, such as technology fees and books. Some schools may offer scholarships that you can apply for. Employers may also be willing to contribute toward your education.

How to Choose the Right MBA Specialization for Your Industry

Many universities offer MBA specializations that equip you with unique skills valued in specific industries. These specializations may align with industry needs and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projections for job growth.

For example, the BLS forecasts substantial job growth in data science and health services management roles between 2024 and 2034.⁴ Earning an MBA with a specialization in either of these areas could help you stand out to employers in those sectors.

A few of the most popular MBA concentrations (and their possible career paths) include:

• Data analytics and business intelligence: Data strategy manager, business intelligence director
• Healthcare management: Medical services manager, hospital administrator
• Digital marketing: Growth marketing manager, digital marketing director
• Supply chain management: Supply chain director, global logistics manager⁵

While choosing an MBA specialization isn’t required, it can help you attain competencies that aren’t taught in a traditional curriculum.

What to Look for in MBA Faculty and Alumni Networks

An oft-overlooked factor when choosing an MBA program is its faculty and alumni network. However, both elements play a significant role in your education and future career prospects. In other words, don’t skip over them when comparing programs.

A university’s business school faculty may have extensive experience in your desired field. They can serve as inspirational mentors, guiding you to reach your career goals. Some may be on the cutting edge of new technological advancements and research that excites you.⁶

When it comes time to find a job as an MBA graduate, you can turn to your university’s career services and alumni networks for help instead of perusing the job sites everyone uses. Programs that boast strong networks may connect you with job prospects in your area. Some also host regular networking activities where you can meet like-minded professionals.⁶

Evaluating Accreditation, Reputation, and Program Rankings

Many schools undergo a rigorous accreditation process that examines the overall structure of their MBA program, including its curriculum, faculty, and student outcomes. Two of the most prestigious accreditations include the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).^7,8 Both are available globally, but have a strong U.S. focus.

Choosing an accredited online MBA program is in your best interest. Accredited schools are recognized by employers and deliver a high-quality learning experience.⁷ Universities often list their accreditations in their program information, but you can verify them independently through the accrediting organization’s website.

Business school rankings give you a feel for the organization’s reputation. Two sources to check include the U.S. News & World Report and the Financial Times.^9,10 You can filter through rankings based on school location, tuition, and other factors.

Position Yourself for Success With an Online MBA

If you’re looking for a way to advance your business career, an online MBA can help accomplish that goal. However, you’ll want to pick an MBA program that aligns with your objectives and availability. When researching options, pay careful attention to the program’s curriculum and career network. Those factors have a strong impact on your future job prospects.

The University of New Haven’s online MBA is designed for working professionals eager to propel their careers to a leadership role. We offer five MBA concentrations in fast-growing areas, including Data and Applied Artificial Intelligence, Business Analytics, Healthcare Administration, Global Supply Chain Management, and Cyber Risk Management.

Our AACSB-accredited MBA is recognized for its top-ranked faculty, curriculum strength, and exemplary student outcomes. Students have full access to our renowned Career Development Center, which hosts regular networking events and connects you with alumni and employers for job opportunities.

To learn more about the University of New Haven’s online MBA programs, explore our curriculum, or request more information to get started.