What is distance MBA?

A Distance MBA program is imparted over long distance with the help of modern technology and communication facilities. It is designed for individuals seeking to pursue higher education alongside their job. However, graduates too can take up the program. Distance MBA programs are ideal for working individuals or students who, for various reasons, cannot join the formal education system. Postgraduate, Graduate degree/diploma level programs are offered in various disciplines such as Information Technology, Management Studies, Vocational Sciences, Life Sciences and Allied Health Sciences.

Students pursing distance MBA programs are endowed with all the relevant study material. But some institutes offer classes during weekends through multimedia facilities, these being audio-video, internet and satellite communication to conduct lectures, hold conferences, take viva and create a sort of virtual college environment.

On the other hand, Correspondence MBA is the traditional form of providing distance learning which involves sending the study material prepared by the college/institute to a candidate through post. It depends completely upon self study. The objective of correspondence MBA is to make it cost effective and exclude the hassles of classroom learning.

Correspondence MBA program is quite similar to Distance MBA but it does not offer class room assistance. In a correspondence course, a student is expected to study on his/her own using the Self Learning Materials (SLMs) provided by the University. A student does not have the benefit of a teacher for most part of the learning process, who can provide him/her with academic counseling.

The duration for both distance and correspondence MBA is 2 years though it may vary from institute to institute.

Eligibility:

The minimum eligibility requirement for both type of MBAs are:

• Bachelor's Degree from a recognized university.
• Diploma holders need to possess three-year work experience to pursue the program
• B-schools select students based on entrance exams that test the analytical, verbal and numerical abilities of students.

Distance and correspondence MBAs are offered in the following streams:

• Import/Export
• Bio-Technology
• Telecom Management
• Infrastructure & Development
• Hospitality Management
• Retail
• Accounting
• Aviation
• General Management
• Finance
• International Business
• IT
• Marketing Management
• Sales Management
• Hospital/Health care Management
• Operations

Career Prospects:

This is ideal for professionals who do not want to quit their regular job and still want to add on to their qualifications. Freshers who are starting off in the industry can also benefit from this. With technological advancement, distance learning can be your first choice of study. The kind of opportunities will almost be the same as the regular MBA.