Top 10 Distance/Online MBA Colleges in Tamil Nadu – 2024 UPDATED!!

Undoubtedly, the demand and credibility of distance and online programmes have increased immensely over the past few years. As per UGC, the maximum number of enrolments is seen for MBA courses at the postgraduate level. The primary reason for this major shift to remote learning is the flexibility to work while pursuing these distance programmes offered to candidates. And the pandemic-induced online learning methodology further accelerated its growth.

Earlier, candidates were concerned about the credibility and acceptance of online and online MBA degrees in the market. However, with the latest advancements in the country’s higher education system, online and offline learning are on the same page regarding quality standards.

Top 10 Distance/Online MBA Colleges in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu is the 10th largest state of India and home to many multinational corporations. Many highly ranked colleges offer online/distance MBA programmes in Tamil Nadu. Therefore, in this article, we will discuss some of the top UGC-accredited colleges in Tamil Nadu.

Let’s discuss these universities one by one in detail:

1. Tamil Nadu Open University

The Tamil Nadu Open University began its operations in 2003-2004. The university was the first in the state to introduce credit-based learning materials in print in 2003. In the past 20 years, the university has effectively enhanced access to higher education and improved academic quality with the help of ICT tools.

The university has always focused on providing education to every section of the society. Owing to this, the fee structure of Tamil Nadu Open University is very economical. Its distance MBA programme is spread over four semesters with the option to choose a specialisation of your choice.

USPs of Tamil Nadu Open University:

• Good infrastructural facilities

• NAAC A+ accredited institution

• UGC-DEB recognised distance MBA

• ICT-equipped regional centres

• Grievance redressal cell

• Video tutorial to assist students

Tamil Nadu Open University Course Details:

• Programme Duration: 2 years

• Fee Structure: The fee for a distance MBA course is INR 25,900 for the complete course.

• Eligibility: Must have passed 12th and undergraduation degree from a recognised university

• Accreditation and Ranking: NAAC A+, UGC-DEB, AICTE

• Specialisations Offered: Finance, Operations Marketing, Human Resource, Information Technology

• Financial Aid: Government offered scholarships for differently abled students

2. Bharathidasan University

Bharathidasan University was founded in 1982 with the objective to instil the need of academic innovation for social change in the region. The university has 4 faculties consisting of 16 schools and 39 departments providing a broad range of courses. Apart from the upgraded on-campus programmes, the university has 15 UG and 26 PG programmes in distance mode as well. The Centre for Distance and Online Education at Bharathidasan University became fully functional in 1992. All its distance and online courses are as credible as the regular programmes.

USPs of Bharathidasan University:

• Multiple learning resources like study guides, practice tests, discussion forums, e-books, etc

• Live and recorded lessons

• Strong complaint-handling mechanism

• Learner support centres

• Online grievance redressal

• Availability of question paper repository

Bharathidasan University Online MBA Course Details:

• Programme Duration: 2 Years

• Fee Structure: The tuition fee for the complete course is INR 19,200. Additionally, there is an admission fee and others.

• Eligibility: A bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks and 45% marks for reserved category students.

• Accreditation and Rankings: UGC-DEB, NAAC A, 45 NIRF Rank 2024 (overall category)

• Specialisations Offered: Marketing, Finance, Human Resource, Systems Management and Operations

• Financial Aid: Differently abled students are given a 100% tuition fee exemption. Scholarships are also arranged for SC/ST students.

3. SRM Institute of Science and Technology

Since 1985, SRM Institute has built its stature for providing world-class programmes and is counted among the top-ranking universities in India. Its curriculum is upgraded timely in accordance with the latest industry standards. To cater to the academic needs of a wider area, the university started a UGC-accredited Directorate of Distance and Online Education. The online and distance education courses incorporate a flexible micro-learning methodology and provide full career guidance as well.

USPs of SRM Institute of Science and Technology:

• Vast alumni network

• Globally ranked institution

• Immersive online learning experience

• Comprehensive curriculum

• 24/7 student support services

• Online proctored examination method

• Advanced LMS technology

• Weekend live interactive session

• Assistance for resume building and mock interviews, along with mentorship

SRM Online MBA Course Details:

• Programme Duration: 2 Years

• Fee Structure: The total programme fee is INR 1,89,000.

• Eligibility:  Having a bachelor’s degree is a must. Though not mandatory, two years of work experience is preferred. To get selected, you must qualify for the online entrance exam or must have qualified CAT/MATGMAT/GRE.

• Accreditation and Rankings: UGC-DEB, NAAC A++,  Ranked #301-350 in the QS University Rankings Asia, 21 NIRF Rank 2024 (overall category)

• Specialisations Offered: Finance, Marketing, Human Resource, Business Analytics, AI & Data Science, Logistics and Supply Chain and Healthcare and Hospital Management

4. Pondicherry University

Pondicherry University is a well-established central university that was established in 1985. It is an affiliated university spread over the UT of Puducherry, Lakshadweep and Andaman & Nicobar Islands. To provide global academic standards in the region, the university has collaborated with various international institutions. As the need and demand for flexible learning increased, Pondicherry University entered this side as well with the Directorate of Distance Education (DDE) in 1995 – 1996.

In the past 25 years, DDE has offered numerous job-oriented programmes and started its own placement cell. So, even in distance learning courses, students are provided with proper career guidance and job opportunities.

USPs of Pondicherry University:

• A dedicated placement cell

• Personal contact programme

• Vast question bank and multiple learning resources

• Well-recognised and accredited degree

• Scholarship for deserving students

Pondicherry University Distance MBA Course Details:

• Programme Duration: 2 Years

• Fee: The total fee for all the MBA specialisations except for hospital management is INR 40,000. For an MBA in Hospital Management,the fee is INR 75,500.

• Eligibility: A graduate from any stream from a recognised university

• Accreditation and Rankings: UGC-DEB, NAAC A, AICTE,

• Specialisations Offered: Marketing, Finance, International Business, Human Resource Management, Hospital Management, Tourism and Operations and Supply Chain Management.

• Financial Aid: Students belonging to the special reservation category can avail of any scholarship from their respective state/UT.

5. University of Madras

Formally established in 1857, the University of Madras has the motto of ‘learning promotes one’s innate talent’. At the time of its inception, it was organised based on the model of the University of London. The university developed its distance education arm in the year 1981, which has now completed over 40 years. Currently, the Institute of Distance Education offers 22 postgraduate courses, 16 undergraduate courses, 16 certificate courses, and 19 diploma courses. Admission for all distance education programmes is open throughout the year. There are two academic sessions: July to June and January to December.

USPs for the University of Madras:

• Self-learning material

• Students grievance redressal

• Personal contact programmes

• Learning support centres

University of Madras Distance MBA Course Details:

• Programme Duration: 2 Years

• Fee: The total fee for Madras University graduates is INR 37,750, and for other university graduates, INR 38,150. There are also other fees, such as a project fee and an admission fee.

• Eligibility: You must have completed a bachelor’s degree from a recognised degree.

• Accreditation and Rankings: UGC-DEB, NAAC A++, 64 NIRF Rank 2024 (overall category)

• Specialisation Offered: Human Resource Management, Financial Management, Hospital Management, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Marketing Management, Systems Management, and Business Analytics

• Financial Aid: Fee exemptions and concessions are available for students who are differently abled, prisoners, visually challenged, or have dyslexia.

6. Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education

The Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education is a top-ranked NAAC-accredited Deemed to be University established in 1984. Its campus is located in Krishnankoil and offers regular UG, PG and PhD programmes along with online and distance learning programmes. The courses in Online Learning (OL) and Open and Distance Learning (ODL) are at par with regular on-campus programmes.

While studying at their own pace without compromising, the candidates can benefit from campus placement and alumni network. Having industry collaborations, its curriculum is constantly upgraded and aligns with corporate standards.

USPs of Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education:

• Affordable programme

• Comprehensive curriculum

• Academic mentor for each student

• Flexibility of learning hours

• Full access to digital library

• Vast alumni network

• Placement assistance

Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education Online MBA Course Details:

• Programme Duration: 2 Years

• Fee: The annual fee for this programme is INR 35,000

• Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university with a minimum of 50% marks in any stream (45% for SC/ST).

• Accreditation and Rankings: UGC-DEB, AICTE, NAAC A, 50 NIRF Rank 2024 (overall category)

• Specialisations Offered: General Management

7. Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology

With the objective to provide students high-quality learning experience without any barriers, the Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology has built its name in the region. It started the Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE) in 2020 to expand the scope of higher education. This centre covers both Online Learning (OL) and Online and Distance Learning (ODL) along the lines of UGC regulations.

Through online and distance learning, the institute offers programmes covering areas of humanities, management, and science. Students enrolled in distance and online degree programmes are assisted with placement services. The dedicated placement cell of the institute invites top recruiters to hire online learning students. Some prominent recruiters at Sathyabama Institute include Wipro, Amazon, HCL, ZOHO, IBM, Infosys, Cognizant, TCS and many others.

USPs of Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology:

• Fully online classes

• Advanced LMS facility

•  Access to virtual learning tools

• Live classes and recorded videos

• Individual mentorship

Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology Online MBA Course Details:

• Programme Duration: 2 Years

• Fee: The total fee for the online MBA programme is INR 90,000

• Eligibility: Must have completed a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university in any stream with a minimum of 50% marks. There is no maximum age limit for this course.

• Accreditation and Rankings: UGC-DEB, AICTE, NAAC A++, 85 NIRF Rank 2024 (overall category)

• Specialisations Offered: Finance, Marketing, Human Resources, Systems, and Operations

8. B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology

The Crescent Institute of Science and Technology has 39 years of legacy for imparting quality education and laying a wide array of academic opportunities for learners. The university has not just crossed a benchmark in world-class academics but has also assisted students with exciting placement opportunities. Every year, top multinational corporations, including Amazon, Capgemini, IBM, Cognizant, Zoho, Mindtree, Virtusa, and many more, recruit Crescent students.

This institution offers MBA programmes in both distance and online learning mode. So a learner can choose as per his/her needs. The Centre of Distance and Online Education (CDOE) has an efficient learning management system and seasoned faculty members to provide uninterrupted learning experience.

USPs of Crescent Institute of Science and Technology:

• Live classes

• Self-learning material

• Discussion forums

• Online exams

• Efficient LMS

• Expert in-house faculties

• Interactive session with faculty members

Crescent Institute of Science and Technology Online MBA Course Details:

• Programme Duration: 2 Years

• Fee: The per semester fee for Crescent’s online MBA is INR 40,000. Additionally, there is an application fee of INR 1,000.

• Eligibility: A bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% marks, and you must be proficient in English.

• Accreditation and Rankings: UGC-DEB, NAAC A

• Specialisations Offered: Human Resources Management, Financial Management, Marketing Management, Operations Management, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, and Management Information System.

9. Alagappa University

The Alagappa University came into existence in 1985 with the aim of fostering research, development and dissemination of knowledge. The university offers a wide range of programmes through regular, online, weekend, and collaborative modes. All these modes collectively house a community of 1.12 lakh students. As an important member of the prestigious Commonwealth Universities and Association of Indian Universities, Alagappa University has fostered strategic partnerships with various national and international institutions. The online MBA at this university is aligned with the current demands of the industry and provides a chance to choose an elective of your choice in order to expand your expertise.

USPs of Alagappa University:

• Efficient learning management system

• E-content, e-tutorial, web resources, and self-assessment option

• Leading companies as hiring partners

• Updated self-learning material

• Structured grievance redressal mechanism

Algappa University Online MBA Course Details:

• Programme Duration: 2 Years

• Fee: The total fee for an online MBA is INR 80,300

• Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognised university

• Accreditation and Rankings: UGC-DEB, NAAC A+, 76 NIRF Rank 2024 (overall category)

• Specialisations: Human Resources, Marketing, and Finance

• Financial Aid: Availability of e-VBAB scholarship scheme

10. Periyar University

Named after a distinguished social reformer E.V. Ramasamy, popularly known as ‘Thanthai Periyar’, Periyar University was established in 1997 in the Salem region. The university provides higher education through three different modes including; the affiliated colleges, the Department of Study and Research and the Periyar Institute of Distance Education (PRIDE).

Under the umbrella of the Centre for Distance and Online Education, the university offers various online programmes such as B. Com., B.A. (English), M.A. (History), MBA, M.Sc. (Mathematics), Master of Commerce, and M.A. (English).

USPs of Periyar University:

• Self-learning material

• Advanced technology learning management system

• Choice-based credit system

• Comprehensive curriculum

• Availability of learners support centres

Periyar University Online MBA Course Details:

• Programme Duration: 2 Year

• Fee: The complete tuition fee for an online MBA is INR 74,500, and for a distance MBA, it is INR 22,000 to 25,000.

• Eligibility: You must have completed a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from a recognised institution

• Accreditation and Rankings: UGC-DEB, AICTE, NAAC A,

• Specialisations Offered: The institute offers an elective basket that includes marketing management, human resource management, business analytics, and finance management. Whereas in distance MBA, you get specialisations like International Business, Banking Management, Textile Management, Marketing Management, Finance Management, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Transport Management, Hospital Management, Hotel and Tourism Management, Human Resource Management and Airline and Airport Management

Eligibility for Online/Distance MBA Programmes

• Graduation – A candidate must be a graduate from a recognised university with a minimum of 50% score in any discipline (minimum score requirement may vary as per university).

• Entrance Test – For admission in online/distance MBA, most of universities do not have entrance exam criteria. Some institutions may require a valid CAT/MAT/XAT/CMAT score or conduct their own exam.

• Work Experience – While most of the universities do not ask for previous work experience, few institutions require 3-5 years of work experience for admission in Executive MBA programmes.

• Age Limit – A candidate should be at least 21 years old to be eligible to apply, and there is no upper age limit to pursue an online/distance MBA in India.

Admission Process for these courses

• Registration – To apply, register and fill out the online application form at the official website.

• Submit Documents – After registering, submit the required documents, including ID proof, previous year’s academic mark sheet, passport-size photo, entrance score and work experience proof (if required).

• Fee Submission – Pay the required programme fee for seat confirmation. You can choose the payment of your choice, i.e. either by EMI, semester-wise, annually or complete course.

• Confirmation – Once all the documentation is done and the candidature is verified, you will receive an official confirmation letter and other necessary details.

Takeaway

Whether you are a fresh graduate or a working professional, pursuing an online/distance MBA degree is advantageous for all. From economical fee structure and flexible learning hours to self-paced learning, the benefits you get in remote courses are numerous. And, in today’s time, recruiters consider online degrees the same as regular ones. Therefore, it depends on your personal interest and goal, whether an online/distance MBA programme is worth it or not.