In today’s world, defined by fast-paced technological progress and evolving workforce requirements, the format of MBA programmes, online or on-campus, is constantly under evaluation. Are they equally recognised? What should aspiring professionals consider before picking one over the other? To better understand this topic, S.P. Jain Institute of Management & Research (SPJIMR) PGDM Online department, in partnership with Coursera, presented an insightful webinar on the topic, ‘Online vs on-campus MBAs: Which is better for your career growth?’
The session featured insights from Professor Sushmita Srivastava, Associate Professor, Organisation and Leadership Studies at SPJIMR and also highlighted an industry perspective on how executive education is evolving and what really defines a meaningful MBA experience nowadays.
Online vs on-campus MBA: Understanding the landscape
Before deep diving into the webinar discussion, it is important to understand the key differences. An MBA on campus classically offers an immersive, full-time experience. Participants benefit from classroom-based learning, direct peer interaction, campus placements, and access to institutional networks and supportive alumni. This model is predominantly beneficial for those who seek to shift functions or industries, as it provides a structured environment as well as direct access to recruiters.
In contrast, an online MBA offers more flexibility and is tailored to professionals who want to continue working while attaining new skills. These digital programmes let students balance education, work, and personal life, making them perfect for those looking for internal career growth or deeper domain expertise without leaving their work responsibilities.
Watch the webinar replay here
What is important to note is that both online and on-campus MBAs at reputed institutes increasingly share similar curricula, academic rigour, and often, even the same faculty. The main differences are in the level of immersion, the mode of delivery, and the career trajectories they best serve.
As Professor Srivastava clarified, “Are you looking to fast-track your growth, transition to another channel, or follow a passion? That clarity is critical. Your learning mode should ideally follow your goal.”
What employers really think
During the webinar, it was discovered that from a corporate perspective, perceptions are rapidly evolving. Online MBAs are seen as valuable and credible, particularly when aligned properly with the student’s current career path.
Learners who choose to continue to work while studying often showcase an admirable ability to juggle work, competing priorities, education, and personal life. This flexibility and resilience, self-motivation, and discipline do not go unobserved by employers. Hence, for students looking to expand their expertise and rise within their current industry or function, an online MBA is definitely seen as a strong sign of capability and commitment.
However, the equation changes when career pivots are involved. For significant moves, such as shifting from finance to product management or from operations to marketing, the on-campus experience may carry more weight. The cohort immersion, face-to-face networking, and campus recruitment support inherent to on-campus MBAs can prove key in such transitions.
What makes an MBA programme transformative?
The panellists agreed that the success of an MBA, regardless of format, centres on three critical pillars:
Relevance 
A truly impactful MBA must prepare students with the skills and knowledge that echo the needs of today’s ever-changing corporate landscape. This means regularly updating the course curriculum to reflect evolving market trends, emerging technologies, and new leadership challenges. A relevant MBA ensures that what is taught in the classroom, or virtually, can be applied immediately and directly in the workplace.
Behavioural change 
More than just an academic qualification, an MBA should ensure a shift in how learners act, think, and make decisions. It should widen perspectives, build confidence in ambiguity, and foster leadership traits such as emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and adaptability. A robust programme nurtures a student’s ability to view problems from a strategic lens and step into roles requiring greater influence and accountability.
Experiential learning 
True transformation occurs when theoretical insights are grounded in lived experience. This goes beyond simple case studies and includes action learning projects, simulations, cross-functional team interactions, and direct exposure to corporate challenges. Experiential learning helps participants develop practical judgement, internalise lessons, and hone problem-solving skills in real-time settings.
Together, these three pillars ensure that the MBA journey is not just educational but also developmental, preparing students to grow not only in capability but also in contribution and character.
Janardhanan Veeraraghavan, a senior professional with 17 years of experience in international sales and functional strategy, enrolled in SPJIMR’s PGDM Online to balance career growth with continued learning. He appreciates the program’s unique blend of pre-recorded content, live sessions, and group assignments, which ensure consistent reinforcement of concepts. The flexible format allows him to manage a full-time job by day and engage with peers and faculty in the evenings, creating what he describes as a ‘24-hour learning experience’.
Technology: A tool, not a replacement
The webinar also discussed the rise of technology and tools like simulations, generative AI, and augmented reality in the space of executive learning. But both faculty and industry experts agreed that while technology is a powerful enabler, it’s not the endgame.
“Technology in the hands of a good teacher is transformational,” said Professor Srivastava. At SPJIMR, online students engage in simulations, live sessions, and campus immersions to ensure their experience remains rigorous and engaging. “We’re moving away from binary thinking. The lines between online and on-campus are increasingly blurred. What matters is the learning outcome.”
Placement support and career outcomes
A commonly asked question was whether online MBA programmes provide the same placement opportunities as on-campus ones. Online MBAs are more geared towards professionals looking to grow within their organisations. For a career or industry switch, an on-campus programme still provides a more robust recruitment pipeline.
Professor Srivastava also emphasised that placement outcomes depend on the student’s self-motivation and initiative. She cited an example of an online student who produced such an exceptional capstone project that she was invited to present it at an academic conference. “It’s not just about the format; it’s about what you do with it.”
A story of career resilience
To close, Professor Srivastava shared the story of Meera Sharma, a graduate of SPJIMR. Before joining the programme, for years, Meera had been struggling to grow professionally due to personal responsibilities. But when her organisation was acquired and she had to relocate, she seized the moment as her big opportunity.
“She pivoted, relearnt, and grew rapidly. Within ten years, she became the CEO. It wasn’t the degree alone. It was her resilience, her ownership of learning, and her clarity of purpose that made the difference.”
Choosing the right runway
An MBA, whether online or on-campus, isn’t just a degree; it is a tool to be used strategically. The right choice depends on one’s constraints, life goals, and learning preferences. But eventually, success comes down to individual ownership.
“The onus of learning lies with the learner. Faculty and programmes can guide, but the drive must come from within,” said Professor Srivastava.
The format will matter less over time. What will matter is how you apply your learning to make a meaningful impact.
Looking to upskill without pausing your career? Explore the SPJIMR PGDM Online programme, designed for professionals who want both flexibility and transformation.
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