Flexibility of Distance Learning

• Most distance learning programs allow you to review materials at your own pace and on your own time, as long as you complete all the work by an assigned due date. The technology used for distance learning programs is quite advanced, so a lot of the interactivity of in-person instruction is maintained during online classes. You will likely be required to participate in class discussions via chats, message boards and other social media platforms, but the time requirements of your participation will be very flexible.
  
  

Programs Offered at Cambridge

• Cambridge University offers a traditional 12-month, full-time MBA program as well as a more flexible Executive-MBA program. According to the school's website, "The Cambridge Executive MBA program lasts for 20 months, and takes place in Cambridge once a month on Fridays (beginning at noon) and Saturdays. In addition to weekend sessions, there is an orientation week in early September, a 10-day international business trip, and a week-long group project."
  
  

UK Schools with Distance MBA Programs

• There are a number of schools in the United Kingdom that do offer MBA programs through distance learning. Many programs are conducted entirely through distance learning, but others follow an open-learning approach that consists of a mixture of distance learning and class attendance. The UK schools are:
  
  Brunel University
  Durham University
  Henley Management College
  Heriot Watt University
  Keele University
  Kingston University
  Leicester University Management School
  Napier University
  Open University
  Oxford Brookes University
  Paisley University
  Reading University
  Stirling University
  Strathclyde University
  Surrey European Management School (SEMS)
  Warwick University
  
  

American Schools with Distance MBA Programs

• Many schools in the United States also offer distance-learning MBA programs. One school is Auburn University, an established and accredited (by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) graduate school of business that began offering MBAs through distance learning in 1990. Other schools can be found by searching the US News and World Report Online Education pages.
  
  

Considerations

• Completing an online program may be just as challenging as completing a classroom-based program. Research the time commitment that the program you choose demands and assess your own ability to attend online lectures, complete assignments and study the required readings. Clarify the specific equipment that you will need to do the program, including computer hardware requirements, Internet connection speed and peripherals such as a web camera.