Correspondence Mba
What Is Correspondence MBA Program?
Once, correspondence MBA programs were very popular around the world. Students would apply and be sent the coursework, sending it back as they completed it in order to obtain their MBA degree. Today, they’re still very popular, though they go by a slightly different name: distance learning programs.
History of Correspondence MBA Programs
The main difference between distance learning and correspondence MBA programs is the medium used. When correspondence programs first started, lessons were sent by mail to the students taking the class, who would complete them and send them back. Slowly, correspondence programs morphed into what is today called Distance Learning. The advantages of a correspondence or distance learning program include:
- Students receive instruction anywhere in the world
- Students complete the lessons when they have the time
- Students learn the lessons and can complete a degree program
- Students stay competitive and can apply what they’re learning immediately
- Students have access to new technologies as the programs morph and change
- Students can take advantage of learning opportunities later in life
Correspondence programs have used many different mediums, according to the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA), www.usdla.org. Although originally they were sent by mail, and today many use the internet, they also used:
- The telephone
- Videoconferencing
- Webconferencing
- Tapes, CDs and DVDs
- Fax
- Message boards and forums
Correspondence MBA Programs Today
Today, correspondence, or distance learning, MBA programs are very popular around the world, and the desire for distance learning is growing especially quickly in India, according to Education Resources Information Center (ERIC), www.eric.ed.gov. The correspondence MBA programs give professionals the opportunity to complete their business education while working and spending time with their families. They also set a standard that must be met and keep people who earn them competitive, wherever they live. Many correspondence MBA programs are accredited, so the degree is recognized by other universities and potential employers.
According to BusinessWeek.com, there are more than 60 schools offering distance learning MBA programs, including:
- Arizona State University
- Colorado State University
- James Madison University
- University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
- Carnegie Mellon University
