Difference between IIM Executive MBA and Online MBA (Distance MBA)

What is an executive IIM MBA program?

IIM (Indian Institute of Management) is one of the pioneers of management institutions that are globally recognized and reputed. These programs are offered through a blended learning mode which involves both online and offline learning classes.

These programs are specially designed for working professionals to assist them in acquiring industry-relevant skills and abilities for future advancement. The duration of this program is 2 years but a few IIMs offer 18-month programs as well which are known as PGP (Post Graduate Program).

These IIM Executive MBA programs are fast-paced and help students develop managerial, entrepreneurial, and leadership qualities through their program to build a successful career in their preferred domain.

What is an Online MBA program?

An Online MBA (Master of Business Administration) is similar to a traditional MBA it is only offered through an online learning mode and students connect and resolve their queries through an online interactive learning environment.

It is a 2-year postgraduate degree program delivered through a highly accessible and flexible LMS (Learning Management System) that allows student-teacher interaction via live sessions, discussion forums, webinars, virtual classes, etc.

An Online MBA is offered by multiple universities and there is also a category of MBA program i.e. a distance MBA program which is similar to an online and traditional MBA program but does not require any online or offline classes. Students enrolled in a distance MBA program are on themselves to prepare and qualify for the exams.

Difference between IIM Executive MBA and Online MBA

Both the program, IIM Executive MBA and Online MBA are similar in almost every aspect but there are slight differences among them as well. A few major differences between IIM Executive MBA and Online MBA programs are listed below:

• An IIM Executive MBA is a 15 - 24 month program whereas an online MBA is a 24-month program. The duration of both programs differs from one another.
• The fee structure for an Online MBA program is quite affordable and budget-friendly as compared to an IIM executive MBA program.
• The IIMs are globally renowned and hold immense value as compared to an Online MBA from a private university.
• An IIM executive MBA is a fast-paced program that is based on elective specialization whereas an Online MBA program enhances the theoretical and practical understanding of an individual in various basic aspects.
• The learning mode of an online MBA program is only virtual and online classes whereas, Online executive MBA programs are delivered through a blended learning mode that includes online and weekend offline on-campus classes as well.

The above-mentioned differences star among the major key aspects that separate an Online program from an IIMExecutive MBA program. Students can enroll in any of them however their eligibility criteria also differ from one another.

The majority of Online MBA programs allow direct admission without any experience whereas, a student is required to clear the admission test or qualify for an entrance exam to enroll in an IIM executive MBA program and it also requires a minimum of 2 - 5 years of work experience in a relevant domain and industry.

What assistance does College Vidya offer?

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Students can distinguish various universities based on their accreditations, recognition, rankings, placement support, fee structure, and all other essential aspects a student looks for before enrolling in a university. College Vidya also offers free counseling assistance to guide students who still haven’t decided on their university, program, and specialization. The counselors are highly qualified and experienced and give unbiased opinions to guide students according to their career goals and objectives.

College Vidya is the best companion a student can ever have, it also ensures a hindrance-free and smooth academic journey for the student through the various post-admission services offered by them.

Conclusion

An IIM Executive MBA and Online MBA both are equivalent to a traditional MBA and hold the same value and recognition as per the regulations and guidelines circulated by the University Grants Commission (UGC). An IIM Executive MBA holds immense and great value as compared to an online MBA and distance MBA. Students can enroll in any program depending upon their preferences and future goals, opting for a program is solely a student's choice and right. However, it can be concluded that the online mode of learning is a revolution in education and both the programs IIM Executive MBA and online MBA are beneficial for students.