Questions to Ask Online MBA Schools

If you're thinking about signing up for an online MBA program, it's wise to know what you're getting into. Here's a list of questions to ask the admissions counselor:

  • What percentage of the coursework is presented online, in person, via phone or on video?
  • What career counseling and placement options are available, and how long after graduation can I access those services?
  • Do you have any networking groups?
  • Are you accredited? If so, by whom?
  • What are tuition, fees, books and supplies going to cost? What other expenses will I incur?
  • What training do faculty members receive?
  • Do the same professors teach online and on-campus courses?
  • Can you provide the names and phone numbers of graduates in my area of expertise or in my town?
  • Are classes synchronous (meaning you must be in a chat room at a particular time) or asynchronous (meaning you post your comments whenever)?
  • Do I have to take proctored exams? Where and how will that happen?
  • Is the program ongoing, or is there a particular start date?
  • Will I move through the program with a single group or on my own?
  • What is your dropout rate?
  • How many hours of work are involved each week?
  • What are your refund policies?
  • Do I have to buy my books from your store?
  • Do you have financial aid information?
  • Does my employer have a program with your school?
  • How can I get my employer to pick up the tab for this degree?
  • What prior experience must applicants have? If the answer is none, consider how valuable your interactions with fellow students are going to be.

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