The largest continent on the planet, Asia has some of the most populous countries and diverse cultures. It is home to some of the world’s fastest-growing economies, driven by investments by established businesses and a boom of home-grown start-ups. Asia is also home to many up-and-coming universities offering diverse educational opportunities. In keeping with the trend toward digital transformation around the world, there has been an increasing demand for online education, including MBA programs.
Recognizing the increasing demand for advanced business education, top universities and business schools in Asia are starting to develop online MBA programs that deliver high-quality instruction, innovative learning experiences, and valuable networking opportunities. In addition to a well-rounded business education with experienced faculty and diverse peers, international students benefit from knowledge about a dynamic business landscape, touted to be the future of the world.
This article explores the top five universities offering online MBA programs in Asia for international students.
Top Schools for Online MBA Programs in Asia
1. HKUST Business School
The HKUST Business School was established in 1991 as a part of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, a leading public university in Hong Kong. The school has risen in prominence in a short span of time to become one of the leading business schools in Asia. It is one of the first in the region to receive accreditation by both AACSB and EQUIS. It is also the first highly ranked Asian MBA program to offer an online learning mode in the form of its Digital MBA program.
Students graduating from the digital program would receive the same MBA degree certificate as regular MBA students. While the typical program duration is two years, students can apply for leave when necessary and extend the period of completion up to five years.
The program is truly digital — the lessons are delivered digitally, students can access and build a diverse network of peers and faculty through digital media, and the program instills the necessary business skills to thrive in a digital world.
2. Asian Institute of Management
The Asian Institute of Management (AIM) was founded in 1968 by Philippine academic institutions, the Harvard Business School, and a group of leading businessmen. It is the first Southeast Asian business school to receive the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accreditation. AIM has a categorical emphasis on Asia, with research, study, and collaborations focusing on the region and its development.
AIM offers an 18-month MBA program that is completely online. Across six terms, students are engaged in preparatory courses and core foundational courses. They graduate upon the completion of a capstone project that they have to write and defend. The program has a heavy synchronous component that provides an immersive learning experience, providing opportunities for interaction and discussions among diverse students.
3. American University of Beirut
The American University of Beirut, established in 1866, is a leading university in the Middle East. The university’s Suliman S. Olayan School of Business (OSB) is accredited by AACSB International and ACCA and offers the top-ranked MBA program in the Middle East and Africa.
OSB offers an online MBA program, which can be completed full-time in one year or part-time in 1.5 years. Before the start of each semester, the program offers a preparatory module comprising three short courses. The program curriculum consists of eight core courses and four elective courses, which students can choose based on their interests and professional ambition.
4. SP Jain School of Management
S P Jain School of Global Management is a private business school located on campuses in Mumbai, Dubai, Singapore, and Sydney. Its Executive MBA program is an 18-month online part-time program designed for working professionals. The MBA program trains students in crucial leadership skills such as strategic thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving. It combines rigorous coursework with practical training to help create business leaders who can make an impact.
Learning occurs through the school’s Engaged Learning Online (ELO) platform, which offers an immersive virtual classroom experience using state-of-the-art technology. Unique in its real-time engagement components, the platform is tailored to keep students active in the learning process.
The program curriculum covers essential foundational concepts of general management, and courses offering specialization in different industries. Based on their interests and professional goals, students can choose the specialization of their choice in either Marketing, Finance, Operations, or Entrepreneurship.
5. Amity University
Amity University is a leading private university in India, with several campuses across the country. It offers an online MBA program designed for both fresh graduates and working professionals. Amity’s online MBA was the only Asian program that made it into the QS Online MBA Rankings for 2022.
The two-year program includes a mix of strong theoretical knowledge and practical training. Students receive coaching from expert faculty and take on real-world projects to build their portfolios. The program aims to provide a complete view of business management and improve students’ decision-making and critical thinking abilities to make them good leaders.
FAQS About Studying Online MBA
Which Online MBA Specialization is the Most In-Demand in Asia?
While the specific demand for online MBA specializations may vary across countries and industries, specializations in technology, entrepreneurship, and international business management are in high demand. Asia has emerged as a hub for technological innovation and digital transformation, and there is a demand for leaders in the rapidly evolving tech industry, and qualified professionals to keep up with the digital revolution across all sectors.
As Asia is witnessing a thriving startup ecosystem, there is a need for specialized professionals who can identify business opportunities, develop innovative business models, and navigate the challenges of launching and scaling a new venture.
Asia’s dynamic business landscape, coupled with the growing demand for specialized skills, has led to the popularity of online MBA programs. As the world embraces the digital revolution, leading Asian business schools have expanded to offer digital programs, and many more will likely follow suit in the future.
We hope the article about the Best Online MBA Programs in Asia was insightful. Do visit the Asia Scholarships Page to find out more about universities and scholarships in Asia!
