When looking for an online MBA program, students should always check if the program has an on-campus residency requirement and what the benefits of those programs are. Some students decide against degree programs of this type because they don’t think they can get time off work to complete one or because they think that the cost of traveling to that campus is too high. Doing a residency though has a number of advantages that can help those students become more competitive in their fields.
Cohort Feel
Devon Haynie, a news editor for U.S. News & World Report, claims that these programs have a more intimate feel than others do. She points out that the programs are quite small and allow small groups of students to work together in a quieter setting. Those small groups also give the program a cohort feel. Working as a part of a small cohort allows each student to have his or her voice heard. Students often feel more comfortable working in a smaller group than a larger group. Working together offline can help them talk about things not mentioned in their online classes too.
More Socializing
Traditional MBA programs offer students a number of different ways to socialize and get to know each other. They can hang out in the library when working on a group project, stop for a bite to eat or a drink after class and even make plans to see each other on the weekends. Online programs do not offer many options for socializing, which is why an on-campus residency is so helpful. Doing a simple residency that takes place over a weekend allows students to get to know each other in a more casual environment without any class restrictions getting in the way.
Networking Experiences
One of the biggest benefits of doing a residency is that is provides those students with networking experiences. Finding a job in the business world today is as much about what the student knows as who that individual knows. Members of professional organizations and Greek organizations have a better chance of landing a job because of the connections they have. Online programs allow students to build up their networks while doing a residency. Not only can they form connections with other students and people working in the program, but they may have the chance to network with alumni and other professionals too.
Job and Practical Experience
Many students enrolled in MBA programs have some business experience, but doing a residency helps those students gain even more experience. With an online MBA residency, those students can work on projects that answer questions and find solutions to problems that real business owners have. Some programs have a job shadow day too, which allows smaller groups of students and select individuals to shadow a professional on the job and see what that person does every day. Students will gain practical experience and develop skills that they can put on their resumes.
MBA programs teach students more than just the fundamentals. These programs expand on the knowledge students gain at the undergrad level and allow them to focus their studies on a specific aspect of business. Online MBA programs with an on-campus residency have some added benefits, including giving students networking experience and providing them with more opportunities for socializing.
