Valdosta State University offers WebMBA� program

Valdosta State University's College of Business Administration has expanded its Master of Business Administration (MBA) program to better serve the needs of working students. The WebMBA� program, which is taught entirely online, enables business professionals to earn a master's degree without interrupting their professional or personal schedules.

"This program is aimed towards working professionals who need flexibility, because of their work hours or travel schedule," said Jim Elliot, WebMBA� director.

Using a WebCT platform, students will take courses in accounting, organizational behavior, marketing, finance, production/operation management, international business, decision analysis, business strategy and two electives as part of the 30 hours required to complete the degree. Students will begin their online classes January 2001 and are encouraged to take two courses each semester for five consecutive semesters.

According to Dr. John Oliver, director of the MBA program at VSU, offering a totally online MBA program will help the local economy. "This program will aid economic development in our region by providing a way for mid-level managers to pursue a master's degree from any location."

"Students with motivation and self-discipline can access learning twenty-four hours a day from virtually anywhere," said Dr. Andrew Ostapski, associated professor of management at VSU. "Executives on a flight to Tokyo or in a motel room in Amsterdam can access assignments as easily as those in a library, on campus, or in their home."

WebMBA� is offered through a consortium of five Georgia universities. In addition to Valdosta State University, the participating universities are Georgia Southern University, Kennesaw State University, State University of West Georgia and Georgia College and State University.

Courses will be taught by professors from each of these institutions, and are selected based on a number of criteria, including their ability to engage students in experiences that provide learning while solving real business problems.