The odds are that you’re not lucky enough to have a really good business school in your nearest town. So whether you’re considering an online MBA for its flexible learning or because it lets you pick your course on the basis of its own merit rather than its location, the good news is that this method of study is only becoming more prolific and more highly regarded amongst employers. Online MBA graduates these days only earn on average 5% less than a full-time MBA, and having an MBA is said to boost your earning power by around 40%.

Academics are firm of the belief that blended learning is on a huge rise thanks to rapid improvements in media. From easily-available broadband to the world-domination of smartphones and tablets, it won’t be long before every potential MBA student has the means to access course material fully online – from podcasts to lecture streaming and beyond.

Warnborough College

Ireland has ten MBA programs at universities and business schools in Dublin, Cork, Galway and Limerick – some ranking very highly in world listings – but only one online option at present, run at the prestigious Warnborough College in Dublin which has links with Oxford University.

The MBA is also available as a residential program if preferred. An independent college is known for its open-minded approach to learning and academically rigorous courses influenced by its Oxford origins, the Warnborough MBA is highly regarded amongst employers. And like lots of other online MBAs, enrolment is a rolling process and students can kick off their study on the first of any month.

Its alumni association is thriving and the college places a huge emphasis on the value of networking opportunities between current and past students of the college. The college actively intends to open doors for its students, and also shows commitment to inclusivity through its various awards and bursaries.

The MBA at Warnborough College costs EUR 11,400 at the time of writing, and takes three terms to complete, though the college does offer a range of scholarships and payment plans, with fee reductions for full up-front payments as well.

Course structure

Core Modules:

– Managing Learning
Creating a level playing field for all students by establishing a universal business and learning skills base.

– Managing Organisations
Studying management theories: motivation, leadership, problem-solving, organisational design.

– Management Accounting and Finance

Theoretical and practical concepts of accounting.

– Business Statistics and Analysis
How statistical data is produced, analysed and presented to stakeholders.

– Economics for Managers

The economic foundations of decision-making.

– Managing Marketing

Focussing on the core marketing principles.

– Managing People
Self-diagnosis and learning for management development.

– Managing Operations

A framework for understanding and analysing the function and management of operational systems.

– Managing Strategy

Strategic approaches and managerial policies from objectives to implementation.

– Final Project

Project or thesis aimed that consolidates all learning in an applied outcome.

Electives

– Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Learners will construct a business plan by applying a range of templates and approaches.

– Business Law and Ethics
An understanding of business laws such as contracts, torts, product liability, business structures, and employment law.

– Culture and International Business
Planning for cultural complexities

How Do Irish Online MBA Fees Compare?

Online MBA CourseCost
Warnborough College, IrelandEUR 11,000
UK - London School of Business and FinanceEUR 17,000
Switzerland - Educatis University
EUR 25,000
France – France Business SchoolEUR 22,000
Denmark – International Business AcademyEUR 15,000
Cyprus – University of Cyprus
EUR 9,000
USA – University of DelawareEUR 28,000