Career Crisis Can Provide the Impetus for Earning an MBA

While career challenges can be stressful, they sometimes provide the opportunity to take a new direction or enhance your professional experience. Earning an online MBA can help increase career options.

by Karen Lawson
MBA Business Schools Columnist

Downsized? Hit a plateau? Facing a merger? Many similar scenarios can compel business professionals to seek new opportunities. Depending on your circumstances, now may be the time to consider an MBA program. It’s possible to tailor your MBA program to specific areas of business. This can be particularly helpful if you have specialized experience in areas like human resources, financial reporting, or information technology.

You no longer have to commit to long hours in a classroom to earn your MBA. Accredited online MBA options are widely available. It’s a good idea to consider several programs before enrolling. Consulting with admissions advisors can help you identify an MBA program that matches your personal and professional goals. Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for an online MBA program:

• Accredited MBA programs demand a significant investment of time. You may enjoy flexibility in completing course work, but you can expect to spend a great deal of time on coursework. If a program promises “an overnight MBA” or doesn’t seem to require much work, it’s probably not an accredited program.
• You’ll need plenty of self-discipline and family support: Online study can be a great option for working professionals, but you’ll need the cooperation of family and friends to allow for study time and coursework.
• You have financing options: If you’re completing your MBA program while working, your employer may pay for some or all of your tuition. Financial aid advisors at your MBA school can provide information about financial aid.

Taking advantage of your down time to complete an online MBA can be a great step toward finding new professional opportunities.

Karen Lawson is a freelance writer with extensive business experience. She holds an MA degrees in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.

Posted on June 11, 2007 at 01:40 PM

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