By Tala Zoubi
UNIVERSITY CITY, SHARJAH – The American University of Sharjah’s well-regarded Master of Business Administration program switched at the start of the spring term to a blended approach including both face-to-face and online learning.
A collaboration between the School of Business Administration with the University Consortium for Quality Online Learning prompted the switch.
Professor of Information Systems and Business Analytics Dr. Jeff Baker said the program aims to create an accessible, convenient and quality learning environment. He added that it includes both synchronous and asynchronous content.
“No drawbacks have been identified at this point,” said Baker. “We’re optimistic and we are moving forward with this program because we do not anticipate major drawbacks.”
The graduate programs and research coordinator at SBA, Merle Antonio, said “The program has 49 students and is expected to double in the next four years.”
AUS built two specially equipped studios to deliver MBA classes remotely.
According to the AUS website, the program is highly rated by the QS World University Rankings, and is listed among the region’s top 10.
UCQOL was founded by the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Education and nine UAE universities.
