Is This the Future of Education? The Explosive Growth of Online MBA

Is This the Future of Education? The Explosive Growth of Online MBA

Edited By Arushi Pandita | Updated on Mar 27, 2025 12:52 PM IST | #MBA

A report by Validated Insights Inc. reveals that 58 percent MBA students enrolled online, making a shift from traditional classrooms to digital education. This trend enhances the appeal of an online MBA degree, which offers flexibility, accessibility, and convenience, making the programme a preferred choice for working professionals and students.

Is This the Future of Education? The Explosive Growth of Online MBA
Is This the Future of Education? The Explosive Growth of Online MBA

There are 75 online MBA colleges in India offer quality education and real-world insights, enabling students to secure top roles in multinational corporations. These UGC-approved colleges provide students with several online MBA specialisations, allowing them to focus on diverse management fields and enhance their expertise for better career opportunities.

While online MBA programmes offer numerous benefits, their long-term impact on employability and skill building remains a question. Success depends on return on investment (ROI), student efforts, and skill development. Popular career options after online MBA include project managers, management consultants, and marketing managers.

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The Growing Trend of Online MBA in India

As per UGC data, online education enrolments surged by 170 percent, while open and distance learning saw a 41.7 percent rise in 2022. The data highlights the increasing popularity and acceptance of online MBA programmes in India. Approved by AICTE and UGC, online MBA programmes have gained immense credibility and have become a relevant choice for students and working professionals.

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Top b-schools also offer online MBA courses in several disciplines. These programmes cater to students seeking quality management education. For instance, IIM Ahmedabad Online MBA includes 900 hours of classroom sessions and blended learning, enhancing credibility. Enroling in such programmes ensures authenticity, strong ROI, and valuable benefits, making online MBA from top Indian B-schools a smart choice for career growth.

To understand the growth of online MBA courses in India, let us look at the 2023-24 UG and PG enrolments of Amity Online, and SRM University Online:

Amity Online UG and PG enrolment 2023-24

Programme LevelEnrolment (July 2023)Enrolment (January 2024)

Undergraduate Level

10,389

5,749

Postgraduate Level

15,141

10,659

SRM Online UG and PG enrolment insights 2023-24

Programme LevelEnrolment (July 2023)Enrolment (January 2024)

Undergraduate Level

681

632

Postgraduate Level

2,295

2,198


The rise of online MBA programmes reflects a variation in enrolment trends in academic years 2023-24. Amity University Online saw UG enrolments drop from 10,389 (July 2023) to 5,749 (January 2024), while PG enrolments fell from 15,141 to 10,659. Similarly, SRM University Online UG enrolments declined from 681 to 632 and PG enrolments from 2,295 to 2,198.

Since Indian universities offer admissions to online UG and PG programmes twice a year, this decline can primarily be attributed to the biannual intake cycle, leading to variations between admission cycles rather than a drop in overall demand for online education.

Also Read: Is an Online MBA the Shortcut to Executive Success? Find Out Now!

Are Online MBA Courses Bridging the Skill Gap or Widening It?

As per the Press Information Bureau, India’s unemployment rate fell to 3.2 percent in 2023-24 from 6 percent in 2017-18. This raises a question on whether online MBA bridges or widen the skill gap. Like traditional programmes, online MBA courses equip students with industry-relevant expertise, helping them develop in-demand management skills for career growth.

An online MBA from a top institute in India enhances management skills, but students must actively seek practical experience. Beyond institutional opportunities, they should build their brand, pursue skill-building certifications, and secure internships or placements. Students should focus on proactive efforts that help bridge the skill gap, ensuring real-world expertise and better career prospects.

SRM University, for instance, offers workshops and placement opportunities, helping students secure management roles in top multinational firms. Ultimately, the success of an online MBA in bridging the skill gap depends on both the institution’s curriculum and the student active approach. Choosing a credible institution ensures graduates gain relevant skills and stay competitive in the job market.

With flexibility, affordability, and industry-aligned curriculum, these online MBA programmes provide valuable opportunities to students. The rapid rise of online MBA enrolment programmes in leading Indian institutions highlights the importance and growing popularity of MBA online degree courses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the future of online MBA?

With increasing demand for management courses, an online MBA has increased in popularity among professionals and graduates. The programme enhances career prospects by developing managerial skills, industry knowledge, and networking opportunities, making it valuable for professional growth.

2. Why choose an online MBA in 2025?

Online MBA programmes will have higher acceptance, industry collaborations, and advanced learning technologies, making them a strong alternative to traditional MBA.

3. Will online MBA help me with placement assistance?

Yes, several universities such as Manipal Online and Amity Online offer placement support, career guidance, and industry connections for better job prospects.

4. Is there any value of online MBA in India?

UGC-approved online MBA holds value in India, offering flexibility and skill development opportunities to students, making them beneficial for career advancement in various industries.

5. Do companies accept online MBA programmes?

Companies such as TCS, and Infosys accept online MBA from recognised institutions, focusing on skills and experience rather than the mode of education.

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Questions related to MBA

Have a question related to MBA ?

An MBA in HR can be pursued after a BA, but you must consider your interests , career goals and other circumstances. If you have a genuine interest in human resources, working with people and management , then MBA in HR can be a good choice. If unsure, please explore other specializations in MBA. However, every decision comes with pros and cons .


Pros:


  1. There is no restriction on background in MBA.
  2. HR professionals are need in every company, which provides a stable career.


Cons:

  1. If you are not particularly interested, then forcing yourself can lead to dissatisfaction.
  2. HR can be a very demanding position, requiring strong communication and conflict resolution skills.


Take your time to ensure that is a step that you want to take, not a step that you feel forced into.

With an MBA in Marketing from Chennai, you are eligible to apply for part-time PhD programs, but eligibility and admission processes vary by university. Research universities in Pune and Chennai offering part-time PhD programs in your area of interest and check their specific requirements.

•Eligibility and Requirements:

•Postgraduate Degree:

Having an MBA is a good starting point, as most PhD programs require at least a postgraduate degree.

•Research Focus:

Prepare a research proposal or abstract outlining your PhD topic and research interests, as this is a key factor in admission.

•Entrance Exams:

Some universities may require entrance exams like NET (National Eligibility Test), while others may have interview-based admissions

With an MBA in Marketing from Chennai, you are eligible to apply for part-time PhD programs, but eligibility and admission processes vary by university. Research universities in Pune and Chennai offering part-time PhD programs in your area of interest and check their specific requirements.

•Eligibility and Requirements:

•Postgraduate Degree:

Having an MBA is a good starting point, as most PhD programs require at least a postgraduate degree.

•Research Focus:

Prepare a research proposal or abstract outlining your PhD topic and research interests, as this is a key factor in admission.

•Entrance Exams:

Some universities may require entrance exams like NET (National Eligibility Test), while others may have interview-based admissions

With an MBA in Marketing from Chennai, you are eligible to apply for part-time PhD programs, but eligibility and admission processes vary by university. Research universities in Pune and Chennai offering part-time PhD programs in your area of interest and check their specific requirements.

•Eligibility and Requirements:

•Postgraduate Degree:

Having an MBA is a good starting point, as most PhD programs require at least a postgraduate degree.

•Research Focus:

Prepare a research proposal or abstract outlining your PhD topic and research interests, as this is a key factor in admission.

•Entrance Exams:

Some universities may require entrance exams like NET (National Eligibility Test), while others may have interview-based admissions

Hello Bala chandar,

  • For pursuing a part-time PhD in Marketing, there are various institutions in Chennai offering flexible options. A PhD is a prestigious degree aimed at those who want to specialize in advanced research, academics, or consultancy. Here’s what you need to know:
  • Eligibility : Candidates must have completed an MBA or equivalent postgraduate degree in Marketing or related fields with a minimum of 55% marks from a recognized university. Some universities provide relaxation of 5% for SC/ST candidates. Additionally, candidates must have relevant work or research experience in some cases.


Institutions in Chennai:

  • University of Madras (https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://www.unom.ac.in/index.php%3Froute%3Dresearch/research&ved=2ahUKEwizjqC--amMAxX6d2wGHeWSDYQQFnoECBsQAQ&usg=AOvVaw2YroqEzEM0IpDiE6ARLDS7) : Offers a part-time PhD program in Management Studies.
  • Anna University (https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://cfr.annauniv.edu/&ved=2ahUKEwil-PCu-qmMAxUbSGwGHXaeJ2oQFnoECA0QAQ&usg=AOvVaw0KmaEwEJdK4XpSfg1vq3zk) : Known for its strong research orientation, it provides part-time PhD opportunities in business management.
  • Loyola Institute of Business Administration (https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://liba.edu/courses/doctoral-programme/&ved=2ahUKEwjO7JO--qmMAxX3UGcHHRwdLaQQFnoECA8QAQ&usg=AOvVaw0jCpGy-LIs2cmoAi0vFp95) (LIBA): Offers doctoral research opportunities with flexible schedules


  • Admission Process : Generally, you need to:
  • 1. Submit an online application through the respective university's portal.
  • 2. Appear for a university-level entrance test (if applicable), or through UGC-NET, CSIR-NET
  • 3. Clear an interview conducted by the institution's research committee.


  • Documents Required : Academic transcripts, work experience certificates, research proposal, and letters of recommendation.
  • Once admitted, candidates are expected to attend classes (if any) on weekends or as per the schedule, and the program duration typically ranges from 3 to 6 years. Research areas in Marketing may include digital marketing, consumer behavior, or brand management.

It’s advisable to contact the universities directly for updated information and to discuss part-time flexibility options.

Let me know if you need further assistance for any specific college.

Have a nice day !!

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