October 26, 2010
Enrollment growing in online MBA program
CARBONDALE, Ill. -- The online MBA program at Southern Illinois University Carbondale has experienced significant growth in its first year, according to officials with the College of Business.
The program went online in 2009 with 14 students enrolled. Since then, enrollment is up 60 percent. This fall, 24 students are working on their Master of Business Administration via the Internet connection to SIUC.
“The growth of our online MBA program further confirms the demand for high-quality, accredited online education options from our University. This encourages us to maintain our focus on these new programs and we look forward to continued success for the online MBA program in the future,” said Dennis Cradit, dean of the College of Business.
The two-year program utilizes a combination of videos, audio lectures and other online presentations and materials. It also features discussion boards and blogging tools, allowing students to interact with faculty and other students. Students advance through the program using learning modules with specific deadlines for completion.
The online master’s program, taught by full-time faculty, allows students to complete their graduate degree while still working full-time. To participate in the online program, students must have a bachelor’s degree and take the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Applicants with five years or more of professional work experience are exempt from the GMAT/GRE requirement. The online program allows students to earn 41 credits and finish their MBA in 24 months.
In her recent State of the University Address, Chancellor Rita Cheng said one of the goals for the University is the expansion of online degree programs.
Recruiting will begin soon for the 2011 online master’s class, with the college accepting applications beginning Jan. 1, 2011. The early decision application deadline is March 15, 2011, with the final deadline of May 15, 2011, for applications.
For more information about the College of Business’ online master’s programs, look online at http://online.business.siuc.edu, e-mail onlinerep@business.siuc.edu or call 618/453-7978.