6 Features to look for in quality online business administration programs

So, you’ve decided to pursue a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree. You know that with your busy schedule, an online program is the best choice. Congrats! You’re already well on your way to starting your higher education journey.

But when you sit down at your laptop to research business administration programs, do you actually know how to decipher a quality one from a mediocre one? Keep reading to learn about some important factors to look for.

6 Things to consider when evaluating online business administration programs

Not all online business degrees are created equal. If you want to get the highest possible return on investment for your time, money and effort, you’ll want to do some research before determining the right program for you. Let’s explore six of the most important factors to think about when examining online business schools.

1. Highly qualified faculty who bring professional experience into the classroom

Online business courses are most effective when the instructors have firsthand insight into the subject matter they’re teaching. If you notice that the professors in a program tend to be career academics with limited professional experience, you may want to keep searching.

At UMass Global, all of our business administration faculty are scholar–practitioners, and many are still actively working in the field. This combination of strong academic credentials and real-world industry knowledge makes them invaluable resources for students determined to advance in their own careers.

2. Concentrations that allow you to tailor your degree to meet your career goals

On its own, a high-quality online BBA degree prepares graduates who are competent in core business principles. While there are plenty of job opportunities for generalists, many students may also benefit from specializing in a field that interests them.

As you shop around, look for business administration programs that offer opportunities to customize your curriculum. Some popular BBA concentrations include:

• Entrepreneurship
• Finance
• GIS and Data Analytics
• Human Resources
• Information Systems Management
• Leadership
• Marketing
• Organizational Communications
• Supply Chain Systems

3. Flexible ways to learn

Every student comes to the classroom with a unique set of circumstances and needs. At UMass Global, we specialize in making higher education accessible for adult students with busy lives and loaded schedules. That’s why the School of Business & Professional Studies offers two ways to earn your degree:

• Online: An online degree offers students all the structure of an on-campus course without the commute. These courses have a traditional grading system, cohort pacing and fixed start and end dates.
• Self-paced: This 100% online modality is competency-based and tempo is driven by the student. It’s an ideal option for individuals with ample industry experience, which can help them master skills faster.

Not sure which modality is best for you? Take our quiz to find out: What type of online learner are you?

4. Relevant courses that are immediately applicable to the workplace

As an adult learner, you don’t have time to waste on courses that cover things you already know. Most UMass Global students enter the BBA program with professional experience — in fact, 90 percent of our students work while completing a program. Many have even found a career they love but need a degree in order to climb the ladder.

Our business administration curriculum is designed to leverage your existing knowledge to help you deepen your understanding of core business concepts and theories. BBA students will examine real-life business case studies, equipping them with practical knowledge and tangible skills that can be immediately applied in their current career.

5. Dedicated student support services

While the convenience of online business schools is unmatched, doubts or concerns are bound to come up at some point. If your program doesn’t do a good job of connecting with you people who can support you in these times of need, it can feel like you’re doing it all on your own.

In moments like this, having someone to reach out to can make all the difference in the world. UMass Global’s student support services are second-to-none. From enrollment coaches to academic advisors, our team of dedicated professionals is there to assist you every step of the way.

6. Accreditation from a reputable organization

No matter what degree you’re considering, you will want to ensure your school and program are properly accredited. The exact standards schools must meet depends on the certifying body. UMass Global is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), which evaluates 39 criteria across four broad standards that together ensure an excellent education.

Why does accreditation matter? This status can determine your ability to transfer credits, take out student loans and more. You can learn more in our article: What is an accredited college or university?

Find your ideal online business administration program

Now that you know what to look for when evaluating online business administration programs, you can make a well-informed decision. If you’re looking for an industry-leading online education provider that’s designed for working professionals like yourself, look no further than UMass Global.

Take the next step by exploring our business programs and career resources.