The MBA Journey Goes Hybrid and Remote

Online and flexible learning formats have surged in popularity since the COVID-19 pandemic, transforming the higher education landscape. As demand for them grows, schools are investing in cutting-edge technologies to enrich the learning journey and combine the convenience of virtual learning with the power of in-person networking.

It’s great news for those who want to pursue an MBA while balancing life and work responsibilities. Online and hybrid programs make the degree more accessible and adaptable than ever before. As these MBA formats are relatively new, it’s natural to wonder about their pros and cons. Here we provide an overview of these program options and share a few strategies for success.

Online or Hybrid? Pros and Cons

For students seeking to advance their careers, online and hybrid MBAs maximize flexibility and minimize travel. Some of these programs, like ours, are taught by the same world-renowned faculty as in-person MBA programs. They also provide access to the entire university alumni network.

These formats may not be the best fit for students seeking to switch careers through an internship program. They also may not offer as many in-person networking opportunities as fully in-person programs. (Note: At Rice, we have an open-door policy for all our online and hybrid MBA students to visit campus at any time they wish.)

Here’s what you need to know about online and hybrid programs, including their potential advantages and drawbacks.

Online MBA

In fully online MBA programs, courses and lectures are delivered virtually, either in real-time (synchronous) or as recordings (asynchronous). Students can attend classes from anywhere in the world, often on their own schedule.

Pros

• Unmatched flexibility in location and learning schedule
• No commuting time or costs
• Join a diverse, global community
• Access to universities not located where you live and work

Cons

• Potential technical difficulties
• High demand for self-discipline
• Limited hands-on learning
• Limited peer socialization (although our learning management systems and virtual study groups can foster a strong sense of community)

Note: Students of Rice’s Online MBA can still benefit from in-person learning. Our program includes two week-long immersive experiences — one on campus and one global field experience — to facilitate networking and collaboration.

Strategies for success:

• Create a dedicated study space to establish a routine and minimize distractions.
• Use tools like calendars and task managers to keep track of deadlines and class schedules.
• Engage actively with classmates and faculty through online forums and study groups.
• Join student clubs and find other ways to engage in the school’s community.

Hybrid MBA

In hybrid programs, courses and lectures blend both in-person and online sessions. At Rice, for example, classes are 70% in-person and 30% remote. Students attend in-person classes one weekend a month — three per semester. The rest of the program takes place remotely.

Pros

• Access to multiple learning experiences
• More networking opportunities, both online and face-to-face
• In-person benefits such as libraries, coffee chats, office hours, and career consultations
• Ability to join a program that is not in your hometown while also benefitting from significant in-person class time

Cons

• Balancing online and in-person schedule
• Travel and associated costs

Note: Rice’s Hybrid MBA has a structured residency program. Students stay in the same hotel during in-person weekends, and costs are included in tuition.

Strategies for success:

• Block your work and personal calendars in advance of online and in-person sessions.
• Organize travel and accommodation well in advance.
• Create both remote and in-person communities.