On the Rise? Distance Learning and MBAs in the UK

News about the rise of the online and distance learning degree in the US, specifically the MBA, is everywhere. Until recently, however, the same could not be said for the UK. There is no lack of distance learning students in the UK, and MBA hopefuls can choose from a range of MBA schools. So are online degrees finally on the rise in Britain?

The Fall and Rise of the Online Degree in the UK

Until recently, the words "online degree" evoked little or negative response in the UK. This is largely due to the failure of the UK online degree, UkeU, which collapsed in 2003 due to low numbers and poor organization. It seems that, even two years ago, the UK was not ready or properly equipped for the online degree.

This does not mean that there aren't plenty of people willing to study part-time or by distance learning in the UK. A survey by the UK's Department of Education and Skills (DfES), has published the following findings:

• 39% of adults aged between 25 and 50 (8.2 million) have returned to education since starting full-time employment
• 63% of same are considering further study on a part-time basis
• 43% of over-25s have returned to study to gain vocational qualifications
• 90% of part-time students in the UK have taken a break after high school before returning to education

MBA Schools in the UK

Most of the bigger UK MBA schools now offer distance learning MBAs, and an increasing number are turning to the online degree too. The Open University, which has been providing quality distance learning in the UK for decades, is currently the leader in the turnaround for the online degree and distance learning MBA. Plenty of MBA schools are said to be following suit. The University of Liverpool was one of the first, and the school launched its online MBA two years ago in partnership with Laureate Online Education. The current prognosis is good. Something tells me that this is the beginning of a beautiful relationship.

Sources
Does an MBA make sense in a recession? Guardian

About the Author
Fran Walker is a freelance writer, editor and researcher specializing in educational, health, safety and domestic issues.