We recently spoke with Dr. Balaji Krishnan, the University of Memphis' Director of MBA Programs about their Online MBA program.
What type of student typically enrolls in University of Memphis’ online MBA program?
The typical Online MBA program is employed full time. More than half our Online MBA students are outside the Memphis area.
Do students work as a cohort or in another way?
Groups are formed in each course but students do not work as a cohort.
University of Memphis emphasizes advanced technology to encourage interaction between students online. What can students expect in terms of technology tools?
We have tools for discussions, chats, video conferencing which are available to students.
How do students in the online MBA program interact with faculty?
Most of the interactions are via email but some video conferencing and chats also take place.
What is unique about the structure of your online MBA program?
I am not sure if it is unique but we have significant flexibility where students can switch between online and traditional classes and can choose to pace themselves as they see fit.
Tell us about the career services and professional resources that are offered to online MBA degree candidates?
Since most of our students have full time jobs there is not a dedicated person for career services for online MBA students. However, they can use the University Career services office if they choose to. Further, the MBA office helps students in their job search in select cases.
Can you share a short example or highlight of faculty achievement in the program?
One of our faculty members, Dr. Sandy Schaeffer, conducted a seminar on online instructional design to help our new faculty improve online teaching.
What companies typically recruit MBAs from your program?
Companies such as FedEx, AutoZone, International Paper, Cummins, Smith & Nephew, Medtronic, St. Jude/ALSAC etc. regularly recruit from our MBA programs.
What advice would you give a prospective candidate for your online MBA program?
There is a general misconception that online courses are easier than traditional classes. Based on my experience I caution students that they need to take up more responsibility to be organized and keep up with the pace of the class.
Why should a prospective MBA candidate choose University of Memphis’ Fogelman College MBA program?
We are an award-winning, accredited, affordable MBA program.
Thanks to Dr. Balaji Krishnan for participating. For more interviews, check out our Online MBA Report Interview Series.
