The future of MBA education: Exploring Olin’s Online MBA program

  • September 20, 2023
  • By WashU Olin Business School
  • 4 minute read

The Online MBA program at Olin is a transformative journey meticulously designed to accommodate the needs of students balancing their professional obligations with their academic ambitions. Olin’s dynamic program offers the versatility to learn from any location worldwide, empowering students to immediately apply newly acquired knowledge and skills to their current roles.

The Online MBA curriculum continues evolving to address the digital transformation technologies students will encounter. While doing so, it maintains the same convenience and flexibility without compromising the quality of the learning experience. Throughout the program, students collaborate to develop crucial skills necessary for success in today’s dynamic business landscape. Keeping pace with emerging industry trends, the Online MBA curriculum equips students with the latest tools and frameworks to excel and stay competitive.

It’s time to experience the power of a program designed to elevate careers to the next level and focus on learning outcomes that last a lifetime.

How does the Online MBA work at Olin?

Choosing an MBA program is a pivotal decision—one that should be both fulfilling and empowering. This is why Olin designed the Online MBA to be more than just an academic journey; it’s an experience that balances academic rigor, flexibility and community engagement, creating a comprehensive learning environment that is both challenging and supportive.

The OMBA’s evolving curriculum is thoughtfully designed, taking into account the demands of the modern business landscape. This ensures the program is not merely theoretical but practically applicable to students’ existing careers or the ones they’re striving toward. The program encompass a broad spectrum of subjects, including fundamental business principles, emerging trends and innovative business practices.

The cohort model is the key to the program’s evolution, fostering a diverse and collaborative online MBA community. As part of cohorts, students join a collective of like-minded professionals where they will learn, grow and succeed together. This model encourages students to learn from each other’s diverse experiences, perspectives and skills. The relationships students build within their cohorts often extend beyond the program, forming a robust network of business professionals that can significantly influence career trajectories.

Olin’s dedicated team of tutors and advisors supports students’ academic journeys. They provide personalized guidance throughout the program, assisting students in understanding complex concepts, developing effective study strategies and navigating any challenges. With this blend of academic rigor, supportive community and wealth of resources, students will always feel encouraged and equipped to succeed.

Innovating education: Integrating digital and on-campus experiences

As the future of MBA education becomes increasingly digital, Olin is at the forefront of this shift. The OMBA is designed to be 100% online, giving students the flexibility to complete coursework anytime, anywhere. Olin’s proprietary learning management system, learn.WashU, was created with the sole purpose of enabling students to complete their MBA programs with unparalleled flexibility. Through interactive classrooms, robust research tools and personalization features, students have access to an online MBA education that doesn’t sacrifice an engaging, seamless learning experience.

Acknowledging the importance of in-person interactions and on-campus experiences, the program has advanced to incorporate an optional blend of on-campus and online experiences, catering to diverse student needs. Students can enjoy the flexibility of online coursework and the option to take elective courses on-campus with Olin’s Professional MBA students if they wish.

These options enable students to broaden their networks across both programs, connecting with a diverse array of professionals, peers and faculty members. This hybrid model brings the best of both educational worlds, fostering a balanced, enriching and connected learning experience. Olin’s “Chill Chat Series: Network Nights,” in particular, serve as vibrant platforms for idea sharing, relationship building and community fostering that extend beyond the classroom.

Developing leaders for the digital future

The program is constantly evolving, committed to molding leaders to leverage technology strategically. As a result, the Online MBA is not merely a program focused on technical skills; it’s a transformative experience. It prepares students to navigate and manage significant changes in our ways of living, working and connecting.

With the contemporary workplace transitioning towards remote and blended environments, the Online MBA is an optimal choice for refining leadership abilities. Students in the Online MBA program collaborate in teams, fostering an engaging and interactive environment that closely mirrors traditional classroom settings. Through this teamwork, students hone their leadership skills and are well-prepared for success in today’s ever-evolving workforce.

The business world gradually shifts toward digital landscapes. As such, the Online MBA program is committed to equipping students with the necessary tools and insights to navigate this evolving landscape effectively and ethically. Olin is excited about the possibilities the future holds for the Online MBA program—one that adapts to the needs of the students and market trends. Olin’s commitment to providing an enriching, flexible and empowering educational experience remains unwavering.

Pictured above: Sophia Richards at her computer during the inaugural class of Olin’s Online MBA program.

About the Author


WashU Olin Business School

WashU Olin Business School

WashU Olin has been a leader and innovator in business education and research for over a century. We offer a global education in the heart of America that transforms the way students look at business. Our esteemed faculty produces research that makes an impact on the world of business and beyond. We are proud to collaborate with organizations in our home community of St. Louis and worldwide to effect meaningful, constructive change.

Program Update

Olin is no longer offering this program. Learn about our part-time Flex MBA delivered online, on campus or somewhere in between.