The transformative journey of an Online Executive MBA

Balancing a demanding career, personal life, and an MBA might seem like an impossible feat. Yet, six graduates from Vlerick Business School's Online Executive MBA (OMBA) programme have done just that. Their stories reveal the true value and transformative power of this flexible learning format, proving that with determination and the right support, anything is possible.

Why an Online Executive MBA?

The reasons for choosing an online format are as diverse as the participants themselves. Philip, and Urological Surgeon in robotic surgery, shares, "After years of intense subspecialisation, I felt I had developed 'tunnel vision' and wanted to broaden my general management knowledge. The fully online format lets me combine work and study, giving me the maximum flexibility of all the MBAs." 

Laurence, a Senior Director, Customer Service in the healthcare industry, chose the Vlerick OMBA “because I currently live in the US and needed the flexibility of an online format, but also wanted the strong academic reputation and European perspective that Vlerick offers." 

For Jonas, an entrepreneur in the pet food industry, the online format allowed him to pursue his MBA while managing his business and personal commitments. "As I’m regularly on the road, both for business and leisure, I chose the online format so I could do it from anywhere, anytime and at my own pace," he says. 

The common thread? Flexibility and the ability to integrate learning with their professional lives.

Experiences That Excite

The OMBA experience is rich and varied. Philip highlights the daily group discussions and international orientation as key aspects that kept him engaged. "The courses are really well designed, with regular group discussions, contributing to others' comments, group assignments, and live sessions, making it possible to connect as much as possible," he noted. 

Laurence enjoyed the optional trips, which provided unique learning opportunities beyond the virtual classroom. "I joined the optional trips to Cape Town and Silicon Valley — fantastic experiences that combined thought-provoking lectures, unique company visits, and great opportunities to connect with fellow students across different MBA formats." 

Jonas appreciated the diversity of profiles in his cohort, which enriched his learning experience. "Meeting people from all over the world because the OMBA is internationally oriented."

Ernst, an Associate Director in financial risk management in the consulting industry, valued the interactive elements of the programme, especially the leadership course. "I liked the interactive element in the Z meetings. The leadership course was one of my favourites," he shares. 

Rocco, Operations Team Leader in a global industrial business, found the practical case studies and diverse cohort particularly enriching. "The diverse cohort brought a wealth of perspectives, enriching our discussions and broadening our understanding of business practices." 

Hannelore, a Full Professor and biomedical research leader, enjoyed "the broad scope of topics, course material often linked to news stories, and hands-on assignments."

Memorable Moments

From attending virtual classes in unusual places to discovering unexpected skills, the OMBA journey is full of memorable moments. 

Philip once attended a virtual class from a hotel in Milan right before a concert. 

Laurence recalls working on assignments with a glass of Californian wine during the Silicon Valley trip. "I still remember us sitting in the evening with a glass of Californian wine, laptops open, trying to meet deadlines. A bit chaotic, but also a lot of fun!" she says. 

Jonas took his accounting exam while on holiday in Austria, reflecting on the parallels between climbing mountains and pursuing an MBA. "I was seated next to a window looking out on the mountains. I reflected afterwards, as I finished the final exam in accounting, that I was near to successfully climbing the OMBA hill." 

Rocco attended a virtual class from the hospital when his second child was born, demonstrating the programme's flexibility. "The strangest place I've ever attended a virtual class was at the hospital when my second kid arrived," he shared. 

Hannelore completed a statistics primer during a transatlantic flight, showcasing her dedication and adaptability. "I had trouble finding a stretch of time to complete the statistics primer. Eventually ended up reviewing the coursework and taking the test just before, during, and after getting off a transatlantic flight."

A Future of Possibilities

Graduating from the OMBA programme is not just an academic achievement; it's a transformative journey that equips professionals with the skills and confidence to tackle new challenges. 

As Philip puts it, he now feels "energised" with a toolkit and network that open doors far beyond his current role. Laurence feels "ready" to take on more strategic roles, while Jonas has shifted his ambitions from running a small business to building a scalable enterprise. Ernst is thinking about new topics and challenges, and Rocco feels overall more confident navigating the business world. Hannelore is implementing new management principles in her lab, demonstrating the practical impact of the OMBA.

The Online Executive MBA programme at Vlerick Business School is more than just a degree; it's a life-changing experience that prepares you for the future. If you're considering an MBA, take the leap and discover the transformative power of an online executive programme. Your future self will thank you.