General MBA Degrees: Online Course and Training Info at a Glance
In training and online courses in general MBA degree programs, students learn the fundamentals of management in business. Coursework includes study of subjects such as strategic planning, leadership, human resources, and customer and market. Classes also cover topics including global and multicultural aspects of business, as well as stewardship and innovation. In addition, students learn to develop communication and accounting skills to use in business. In general MBA degrees, students get a broad overview of all of the different aspects of management in business, instead of specializing in a certain area. Online courses enable working professionals to continue working full-time while taking classes.
Employment for top executives was predicted to expand five percent from 2010-2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Job growth will depend largely on the rate of growth of the industry.
| Online Course | Training | |
|---|---|---|
| Who is this Degree for? | Individuals who want careers as leaders in business and prefer the convenience of online study | People who would like to work in business in leadership positions |
| Common Career Paths (with approx. median annual salary) | - Chief executive ($177,000)* - General and operations manager ($114,000)* - Marketing manager ($126,000)* - Financial manager ($120,000)* | Same as those for online courses |
| Time to Completion | Two years | 2.5 years |
| Common Graduation Requirements | Core courses in subjects such as finance, operations, marketing, and accounting and possible on-site fieldwork | Core courses in subjects such as finance, operations, marketing and accounting |
| Prerequisites | Bachelor's degree | Bachelor's degree |
| Online Availability | Yes | Yes |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2011 figures).
General MBA Degree Online Courses
In a general MBA degree program online, students can take courses in management, finance, marketing, operations and accounting at home. Online coursework enables students to have regular discussions with classmates and faculty through Web conferencing, multimedia and online forums. Students can continue to work full time while taking courses and apply what they learn to their jobs. In general MBA degree programs, online courses focus on areas such as leadership, information and analysis, strategic planning and human resources. Students who take online courses for a general MBA have the opportunity to network with professionals in different fields and locations across the U.S. Some on-campus work may be required in online programs.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Taking courses online allows for flexibility in your schedule.
- You will be able to learn about all of the key aspects of management in business while staying at home.
- You will save time, since you will not need to spend time getting ready and commuting to campus.
Cons
- You may not have the quality of interaction with other students and faculty that you might have in person.
- You may have to do some work on campus in an online program.
- You may need technological upgrades for your computer system, which can cost money.
Courses and Requirements
In order to graduate in an online MBA degree program, students may need to complete field work on campus. Some common courses include:
- Operations management
- Accounting for management
- Organizational behavior
- Marketing management
- Financial management
Online Course Info
In an online MBA degree program, students participate in a virtual classroom with online lectures and discussion groups. Students take quizzes and tests online, as well as interact with other students and professors about a wide variety of topics in business. Online coursework accommodates students' need for flexible schedules due to work and family commitments.
Getting Ahead with this Degree
You can stand out if you can hone your communication skills, because as a top executive, you need to be able to communicate clearly with subordinates and discuss issues. You have an advantage if you have good time management skills, because if you are a top executive, you will need to complete many tasks in a timely manner in order to meet goals.
General MBA Degree Training
In a general MBA degree program, you learn how to develop your managerial and leadership skills. Students study a wide range of subjects in business, including accounting, economics, financial management and collaborative innovation. You also learn about marketing strategy, organizational behavior and entrepreneurship. In addition, students can study the relationship between business and society, legal aspects of business and sustainable organizations. A general MBA degree program gives an overview of topics in business and prepares students to solve problems and provide direction to companies.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- You will be prepared for becoming a top executive within a business.
- You will learn the key aspects of management in business.
- You will learn how to develop effective communication skills in leadership.
Cons
- An MBA with a specialization may help you to have a competitive edge in some job markets.
- The job market for top executives is very competitive.
- Most top executives work long hours, including evenings and weekends.
Courses and Requirements
In an MBA degree program, students study a variety of subjects in business such as economics, management, and organizational behavior. Some common course topics include:
- Organizational communication
- Marketing management
- Business and society
- Management information systems
Online Course Info
In an online MBA degree program, students can take courses over the Internet in the convenience of their own home. Students can read materials for class online and engage in regular discussions with faculty and classmates. Some on-site field work may be required to graduate.
Getting Ahead with this Degree
You can get ahead if you develop your decision-making skills, since you will need to decide the best course of action to take on a daily basis while managing an organization. You can get ahead by honing your leadership skills, since top executives spend a lot of time coordinating resources, people and policies. One way to demonstrate your commitment to being an executive is to earn the Certified Manager credential, which you can earn through the Institute of Certified Professional Managers.
