Top 13 Online MBA Programs in Nigeria

MBA or Master of Business Administration programs are graduate degrees that are designed to equip students with advanced skills and knowledge in business and management. MBA is a sought-after qualification by entrepreneurs, leaders and individuals who want to build capacity for business expansion or personal development. It also provides professionals in different fields with the latest business techniques and best practices in their industries to advance their careers and enhance their earning potential.

MBA students gain a holistic understanding of different aspects of business processes and activities, such as finance, marketing, operations, supply chain and logistics and strategy. 

In this article, we look at the benefits of pursuing an MBA degree as well as the unique benefits and value of online MBA programs in particular. We also outline the top 13 online MBA programs in Nigeria.

An MBA program provides learners with a good understanding of the business world, gaining top-notch business and leadership skills, including knowledge of various aspects of business. The skills and knowledge gained enable learners to become work-ready, effective leaders in their different fields and industries, with the capability to analyze complex, real-world business problems, develop strategies and implement solutions.

By deploying their theoretical and practical knowledge in the workplace, MBA graduates help businesses make informed decisions and drive organizational growth. Therefore, organizations are always in search of MBA graduates to help them achieve set goals. According to Statista, 92% of organizations surveyed worldwide had employed MBA graduates as of June 2022.

2. Networking Opportunities

MBA programs bring together professionals, entrepreneurs and leaders from diverse locations, backgrounds and industries. In addition to benefiting from their diverse experiences and complementary abilities, MBA students relish the opportunity to enlarge their network, which often comes with new career support and opportunities. With carefully created cohorts, learners meet others from industries similar to theirs, enabling them to embark on group projects on research and business opportunities.

3. Promotion and Salary Increase

If you desire a salary raise and promotion, consider enrolling in an MBA program. Because of the business and leadership skills acquired from their studies, MBA graduates have higher chances of being promoted and earning better salaries. Investment in an MBA is an investment in your career and future. According to Future magazine, MBA graduates earned two raises on average in 2022 alone. Therefore, if you are seeking better pay and promotion into senior management roles, think of earning an MBA degree.

4. Ease of Career Transition

Switching careers could be daunting. But earning an MBA degree can make it easier as you will acquire transferable skills across functions and industries. Some of the valuable skills employers demand include leadership, communication, project management, strategic thinking and problem-solving. Having these skills can help you switch to different industries and handle new roles.

Also, there are MBA programs that offer specialisations in specific fields and industries such as healthcare management, marketing, supply chain management, accounting and finance, and so on. Similarly, the connections you gain during the program will strengthen your professional network and enhance your chances of unlocking new career opportunities.

5. Increased Job Prospects

If you want to increase your prospect of gaining the job of your dream, enrolling in an MBA can help you achieve that. According to a report by the Graduate Management Admissions Council, about 9 out of 10 full-time MBA students land a job even before graduation. For professionals who combine work with studies, this means increased chances of gaining better employment.

6. Develop Entrepreneurial Skills

In addition to the above, MBA students acquire invaluable skills and expertise required to start and successfully manage a business. Learners take a wide range of courses, including entrepreneurship and innovation, which equip them with the knowledge they need to develop and implement business plans and strategies.  With the quality mentorship received during the program, MBA graduates are well-positioned to launch and nurture their own businesses. Therefore, MBA programs are highly suitable for entrepreneurs seeking to expand their businesses and individuals who intend to start their own ventures.

Benefits of Choosing an Online MBA Program

While studying for an MBA is generally an excellent investment, choosing an online MBA comes with additional benefits. Below are selected advantages you can derive from opting for an online MBA in place of an on-campus program.

1. Flexibility for Work-Life Balance

Work and other personal commitments may make it challenging to cope with an on-campus MBA. Studying on campus may dictate the location of your work and residence and how often you can travel. 

On the contrary, an online MBA helps to eliminate the stress and time involved in commuting to campus, enabling you to earn your degree with less stress and without having to quit your job. You can plan your study schedule to accommodate routine or occasional personal commitments, social needs and family responsibilities. You can study from your chosen location. Add to that the opportunity to earn your degree in as little as a year rather than the typical two years required by most on-campus MBA programs. 

What’s more, with an online MBA program, you can repeat lecture videos as many times as necessary, saving you the time and stress that come with writing during high-level lectures.

2. Build a Global Network

Online MBA students are enrolled from various regions of the world. This gives students the opportunity to gain global business perspectives, connect with industry leaders across borders and build valuable professional networks. By building relationships with students, alumni and faculty internationally, online MBA graduates are positioned to unlock global career opportunities, business opportunities and professional mentorship. Your global network can promote your career with references and referrals. A report by Glassdoor indicates that employee referrals account for 10% of job interviews.

3. Apply Your Knowledge Instantly

An online MBA allows you to keep your job while you gain new skills and knowledge. The knowledge and skills gained can be immediately applied at work, giving you practical scenarios that enable you to become a better problem-solver as you adopt the techniques and principles of business you acquire in the program. Demonstrating your expertise at work may also lead to taking up new responsibilities and extending your professional experience. Your employer may even pay for the cost of your MBA.

4. Gain Promotion and Increase Your Earning Potential

Enrolling in online MBA positions you for the promotion and salary raise you desire. Demonstrating advanced business skills and superior expertise at work gives you an edge and prepares you for leadership positions. By improving your performance at your current job and making you a more valuable employee, an online MBA empowers you with all you need to negotiate your promotion and improved salary. It can also help you to switch your career seamlessly or take on new roles.

5. Acquire Technological and Digital Skills

Online MBA exposes learners to the world of technology and promotes digital literacy. Students access lecture materials, textbooks, assignments and other resources digitally, improving their ability to cope in a technology-driven, digital workplace.

Online MBA programs make use of a learning management system (LMS) that promotes inclusion by delivering lectures in a multimedia format – audio, texts, images and videos. The LMS also promotes interactive learning with platforms that allow text chat, video conferencing and discussion forums. Furthermore, using their smartphones, laptops and tablets, students can access on-campus resources, including access to career services and technical support. 

6. Affordability

In general, online MBA programs are more affordable. Not only are the fees for many online MBA programs lower in comparison with on-campus programs, but learners also do not have to spend on transportation, accommodation and other costs that are attached to using on-campus facilities. Moreover, staying employed and earning while learning also makes paying fees easier, discouraging indebtedness. Therefore, with online MBA programs, you can eat your cake and have it! 

Are Online MBA Programs Recognized?

The short answer is “Yes”.

Online learning has gradually become popular and online MBA programs are globally recognized despite previous resistance in certain quarters. In fact, many universally renowned institutions now offer both on-campus and online versions of their programs without sacrificing quality education. Most schools encourage students to consider online programs.

Online and on-campus business programs adopt the same curriculum, are taught by the same calibre of industry experts and renowned faculty and accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, preventing the proliferation of low-quality education. This means online MBA programs have the same value as on-campus programs.

Top 13 Online MBA Programs in Nigeria

Find below the top 13 fully online and hybrid MBA programs in Nigeria for those seeking foreign education. They provide online and hybrid options that give students the flexibility to complete their education abroad and work overseas. Learning from renowned faculty and expert industry leaders, students gain vast knowledge in their fields through hands-on projects, simulations and real-world case studies, graduating in as early as a year.

1. Online MBA - Artificial Intelligence

The business world has embraced the automation of processes to enhance decision-making and efficiency. As a result, artificial intelligence (AI) is a rapidly growing industry with stiff competition among top and startup tech companies such as Meta, Google, OpenAI, Microsoft and Baidu. An MBA in Artificial Intelligence (AI) will prepare you for the future of work, equipping you with the skills and tools to lead teams in planning and executing AI-related projects as well as developing and implementing AI solutions capable of boosting organizational processes.

2. Online MBA - IT Management

IT plays an important role in business today. An MBA in IT Management will provide you with the techniques and tools needed to manage and lead IT systems, departments and projects. This program will broaden your knowledge of IT and sharpen your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. You will gain key IT concepts and crucial business skills to solve IT-related problems and succeed as an IT manager.

 
3. Online MBA - Big Data Management

There is an increasing demand for professionals who can manage and analyze the massive amount of data businesses are generating across industries. Therefore, an investment in MBA in Big Data Management is a smart choice. The program will provide you with the tools and skills you need to manage and analyze large sets of data to help organizations make informed, data-driven business decisions. You will gain expertise in data management, data analytic and data visualisation as well as become an astute business manager.

4. Online MBA - Healthcare Management

The healthcare industry is one of the most thriving industries globally. There is an increasing demand for healthcare professionals all around the world. If you are passionate about pursuing leadership roles in the healthcare sector, then you should consider an MBA in Healthcare Management. The program will expand your knowledge of healthcare policy, technology and finance. You will gain the practical and theoretical skills to succeed in management roles in hospitals, government agencies and insurance companies.  

5. Online MBA - Engineering Management

If you want to acquire multidisciplinary skills in business and engineering, the MBA in Engineering Management is a perfect program for you. You will gain skills in product development, project management and technology commercialization. You will be equipped with the relevant skills to successfully manage teams and complex engineering projects from the design stage to implementation. This program will make you a thoroughbred project manager in the field of engineering.

6. Online MBA – Supply Chain Management

As a key component of many businesses, supply chain management is critical to the success of organizations. This MBA in Supply Chain Management will give you the latest cutting-edge skills and techniques to plan, design and manage supply chain processes, reduce costs, improve efficiency, optimise operation and increase profitability. As one of the in-demand qualifications, an MBA in Supply Chain Management will prepare you for careers in different industries, from manufacturing to procurement, transportation and logistics.

7. Online MBA – Financial Management

If you intend to take your career in finance to the next level, you should consider this MBA in Financial Management. It is designed for learners who want to develop their financial, leadership and managerial skills and help organizations achieve business goals by developing and implementing financial strategies. You will gain top-notch financial knowledge and skills that will give you an edge in the fast-paced and dynamic world of finance, helping businesses to minimise risks by aiding investment decisions with extensive financial insights and analyses.

8. Online MBA – Innovation and Entrepreneurship

If you are passionate about providing innovative solutions to real-world problems, the MBA in Innovation and Entrepreneurship is a good match for you. The course equips learners with a holistic knowledge of entrepreneurship and innovation management. You will acquire the skills and techniques to identify and evaluate business opportunities, helping organizations to develop new products and services that will put them in strategic positions in the competitive world of business.

9. Online MBA – Finance & Accounting

This program is designed for those who want to acquire the latest skills and techniques in accounting and finance and the knowledge of global best practices in business management and administration. It will help you to realize your full potential in business finance and financial analysis by equipping you with the expertise you need to become a leading finance and accounting specialist. In addition to gaining the knowledge of financial principles, taxation and financial reporting, you will be able to manage financial risks effectively, analyze financial statements and help businesses make informed investment decisions.

10. Online MBA – Business Management

This is a course for those who want to take their careers to new heights and make impact in the world of business. It equips learners with a broad range of business skills, from marketing to finance, accounting, management and leadership. The MBA in Business Management is designed for those who want to acquire a comprehensive understanding of business principles and practices that will enable them to excel in any industry. Through real-word case studies, simulations and hands-on projects, learners acquire the ability to develop and implement strategic plans, lead teams effectively and make informed business decisions.

11. Online MBA – Marketing

If you want to learn about the latest techniques in traditional and digital marketing and gain advanced skills in marketing strategy, this MBA in Marketing is a perfect choice. You will develop a vast knowledge of marketing strategy, marketing analytics, product design, development and launch. You will drive business growth with an advanced understanding of customer behaviour analysis, latest digital tools and technologies.

12. Online MBA – International Business Management

If you want to take your career to the global stage, this program will prepare you for global opportunities. This MBA in International Business Management is designed to equip learners with the skills and knowledge to develop strategic management and leadership skills for effective global operational performance. You will learn global best practices in international business management that will enable you to effectively lead teams and manage business and transactions across borders.   You will learn the essential principles and practices of international business management, develop effective cross-cultural strategies and analyze global market trends.

13. Online MBA – Human Resource Management

The MBA in Human Resources Management is designed to equip learners with a comprehensive knowledge of the principles of human resource management. You will acquire the latest techniques and best practices to attract and retain top talent by developing compensation and benefits programs that will create a positive workplace environment and drive organizational success. You will work with experts and other professionals to gain practical skills that will set you apart from the competition.

Achieve More with Online MBA

Enrolling in an online MBA will equip you with advanced business skills that will enable you to take your career to new heights. You will acquire latest techniques, knowledge and skills in your industry that will increase your earning potential, expand your professional network beyond national boundaries and prepare you for leadership roles. An online MBA can ease career transition by keeping you employed while acquiring the relevant skills and certification for your desired field and industry. For more online and hybrid MBA options, click here.