The rapid growth of digitization has impacted higher education. Today, professionals are confidently opting for online degree programs to stay competitive, especially programs like an online MBA. However, doubts like "Will the word 'Online' appear on the degree certificate?" are still keeping many people uncertain about its long-term value.
While over 75% of employers have hired online degree holders in the past year, concerns about its credibility of online degrees still remain.
Often, the difference between acceptance and rejection can hinge on a single word. Therefore, it is crucial to understand what your certificate will actually show.
This blog dives into the nuances of an online degree certificate, how it works, what it will show, and the value of an online MBA to answer that very question.
How does an Online MBA work?
An online MBA, like its physical counterpart, is a two-year postgraduate program. It encompasses the concepts needed for business administration career roles, delivered through dedicated online classes and lectures. Students can choose from various specializations like marketing, strategy, finance, human resources, etc.
Legitimate online MBA courses from well-known universities offer:
- Accreditation and approval by statutory bodies such as UGC (University Grants Commission) and NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council) for an online MBA in India and other similar authorities abroad.
- Flexible work schedules for professional students or distance program students.
- Live and recorded sessions, interactive case studies tailored to the context, online quizzes, and networking opportunities.
- Different specializations in human resource management, hospital management, finance, marketing, and much more.
This proves the quality and credibility of online courses to be on par with traditional, offline ones. There are no substantial differences that might hamper the credibility of an online MBA degree.
What Your Online Degree Certificate Will Show
After completing two years and four semesters, an online MBA will be a fantastic addition to your resume. But will the word "Online" show up on the degree certificate?
The answer is no. The online degree certificate, a formal document that attests to academic achievement, will not mention the mode of learning. It will be a professional, official document, identical to the one earned post completing a traditional MBA program.
Typically, it will feature:
- University name and crest/logo: Provides authenticity of the university's authority and brand.
- Your full name: Cements a student's claim to the certificate and the degree.
- The degree title: It will state "Master of Business Administration" and not "Master of Business Administration Online."
- Date: The date of the degree's award.
- Signatures: Official signatures from authorities like the vice-chancellor, dean, registrar, etc., that prove authenticity.
Degree of Equivalence: Why Your Certificate Remains Standard
An online MBA degree is usually based on the principle of equivalency since online degree programs are as challenging as their on-campus versions. Therefore, to maintain that standard, institutions, especially UGC-accredited ones, use this idea and leave the term 'online' out of the online degree certificate.
Here's the breakdown:
- Same Curriculum: The main courses, electives, case studies, and academic projects in online MBA programs are usually the same as in the full-time, on-campus program. Students learn the same business principles and strategic frameworks.
- Same Faculty: The same well-known professors who teach on campus are frequently the same individuals who develop and instruct the curriculum for India's online MBA degree.
- Same Standards: Tests, academic requirements, and grading standards are identical for both MBA formats. A pass is a pass, and an 'A' grade requires the same level of mastery. As the academic content is the same, the university awards the same degree: a Master of Business Administration.
The method of delivery is meant for convenience. It is not something to take into account when deciding on the value of the degree or the acquired learning. To label it "Online" would be to create a false ranking and negate the underlying principle that it is the learning that matters.
The UGC guidelines very clearly state that degrees awarded by recognized online courses are to be equated with those of traditional courses. UGC Chairman M. Jagadesh Kumar highlights online courses to be on par with traditional ones. This policy is now official and applicable to Indian schools as well.
The Degree vs. The Transcript: A Small But Important Distinction
The degree certificate does not mention the learning mode. However, graduates also receive an academic transcript, which may state the mode of education.
The transcript is a more detailed, multi-page document listing every course taken, credits earned, and grades received —an official record of your MBA journey.
Here's a distinction between the two:
| Feature | Degree Certificate | Academic Transcript |
|---|---|---|
| Primary purpose | A formal award | A detailed record of academic performance. |
| Detail level | An official summary (degree title, name, date). | Highly detailed (lists all courses, credits, and grades). |
| Length | A single, formal page. | A multi-page document. |
| Mention of study Mode | Doesn't specify learning mode. | May sometimes mention the mode of learning (online or on-campus) |
In some cases, a transcript might indicate the campus or mode of study. However, this is becoming less of a concern for two key reasons:
- Changing Perceptions: Perceiving the global shift to remote opportunities, employers today are far more open to e-learning. They understand that possessing an MBA degree online indicates sheer self-discipline, great time management skills, and a very high level of technocompetence—all much-needed skills in the workforce today.
- Focus on Skills: Most recruiters these days value skills more than how professionals earned them. They will consider specialization, grades, and practical experience through projects. The transcript validates these skills and shows compatibility with the job role.
In short, the mode of education is gradually becoming a detail most employers overlook. So, even if the academic transcript shows the mode of learning, a valuable skill trumps it.
Pre-Application Checklist: How to Verify If 'Online' Appears on Your MBA Degree
Most reputable universities provide the degree certificate without mentioning the mode of learning. However, it's better to do due diligence before starting the online degree application process.
Here are a few ways to do it:
- Ask the admission office directly: This is the easiest and most reliable method. Email the admissions counselor or call to ask if the certificate will show the term "online" as the mode of study.
- Check the university's FAQ page: The university website may have some information on the online programs. Check the program details or the FAQs page to seek clarity.
- Connect with alumni: Try reaching out to the alumni network of the relevant university to get solid insights. LinkedIn is an ideal platform to find them.
Other than these methods, searching for degree-related public posts on community forums like Quora or professional social platforms like LinkedIn might shed some light. It's better to be sure before than regret it later.
'Online' MBA: Does it Matter?
Worrying about the word "Online" on the degree certificate should no longer be a concern.
Most reputed institutions offering online MBA degrees in India and abroad are proud to be part of the changing landscape of education. They provide high-quality online degree programs on par with their on-campus twins.
Moreover, they highlight the degree as a "Master of Business Administration" and not an "Online Master of Business Administration." This solidifies the learning and achievement over the past couple of years and certifies students for the professional world.
The focus should be on finding a suitable, well-accredited program from a recognized university. A good program providing ample education builds the skillset required professionally, negating the point of the mode of delivery. For example, Chandigarh University offers a convenient online MBA program with a huge career impact. With top-notch faculty, 23 specializations, and 100% placement assistance, it is the perfect opportunity for students to upskill. So why wait? Apply today!
