I have recently started the Quantic Executive MBA, and after about 2 months, I thought it might be useful to drop a note of my initial thoughts. I will then do an update later in the course.
I have always been keen to undertake an MBA (Master of Business Administration) to provide further business knowledge to enable me to provide further value at work. I am an avid self developer always looking to learn and apply more to what I do, be this work or personal focussed.
A couple of downsides to a ‘traditional’ MBA is either time out of the workplace if undertaken full time over a year or so, or the financial burden of either full time (plus lost wages) or part time. It can also be very inconvenient to have to study somewhere which is away from home or disruptive to your lifestyle. Hence I was looking at distance learning courses.
I found out about the Quantic School of Business and Technology, and it seemed to tick many of the boxes I was looking to fulfil. This Executive MBA course allows me to further embed my business knowledge through distance learning and flexible study, which is self paced but with structured learning. The course also mixes self study (modules, case studies, exams, exercises) with group participation projects, presentations, meet ups and excellent support.
Quantic offer a free MBA or a paid for Executive MBA (greatly reduced price to traditional MBAs due to business model of funding by potential recruiters and companies looking to recruit MBA graduates). This is a clever alternative on the market, by altering the business model to reduce costs for students thus making it financially more accessible.
What I also found intriguing was the innovative approach to learning via an app accessible on phone, tablet and laptop. Working in the IT industry this was very appealing, especially as it helped my ‘work anywhere’ mentality and interest in a technology led learning path. This had to be worth a try.
After competing the first couple of modules over 2 months (there is a preset and structured module list, although you can pick and choose if you want to) I can certainly say the approach is working for me, furthering my understanding of terminology, concepts, practical application and recaps. I am able to learn when and where I want to, at home, on the train, in a hotel etc, which was one of my critical requirements so enabling me to flex learning around work and family time – this is excellent, and a major draw compared to having to learn on a campus – flexibility is key.
You can find out more about the Quantic MBA here: Quantic.mba.
How do the group projects and exams work? Do you need to carve out time to meet up with other students to complete group projects? And go to specific venues for exams?
Hi Jacqui, thank you for reading and your comment.
The exams are the same as the course, all via the app, and self paced. They are open book and should take around 1 hour or so to complete, reality it takes 1-3 hours depending on topic and how much checking notes etc you need to do. Once the exam is started you have 48hrs to complete.
The group projects can be undertaken remotely or in person. Choice is yours. Remote is likely easier if collaborating with class mates in other countries or geographically dispersed. I know some folk meet up in their local city etc and work there.
One of the benefits of an MBA (or any learning for that matter) is the networking and collaborative learning. So I recommend to work with others on the appropriate projects etc.
Are you thinking of undertaking an MBA?
Regards,
Ed
Hi Ed,
Thanks for writing this.
Do you know others who have taken this MBA and what they say it has done for marketability for potential jobs?
Hi Vince, thanks you for your note. There are lots of Quantic Alumni who have successful roles, and I am sure having the MBA knowledge has supported them. I am still networking with Quantic colleagues, and will keep an ear out for any direct information. Regards, Ed
Any update on this program?