Top 9 Online/Distance MBA Colleges in Tamil nadu
An article in the Times of India states that there has been a 42% increase in admissions for distance learning courses such as a distance/online MBA, and a 170% rise in enrollments for online education in India. The popularity and reputation of distance and online programs have risen in recent years. According to the UGC, the highest number of registrations are seen for MBA programs at postgraduate levels. The primary reason for this significant shift to online learning is the ability to maintain job while engaging in these distance programs available to applicants. Moreover, the growth of online learning was further accelerated by the pandemic-induced method.
Before this, candidates expressed concerns regarding the validity and recognition of online and distance learning MBA programs in the market. However, because of recent developments in the country’s higher education system, both online and offline learning now reach the same high standards of quality. The independent and flexible online learning pattern offers a benefit to MBA aspirants who are looking for higher package and more job prospects.
Addressing specifically to Tamil Nadu, the tenth largest state in India, which hosts many large companies within the country. Tamil Nadu offers a wide selection of prestigious colleges that are highly ranked for online or distance MBA programs. In this article, we will explore some of the leading colleges in Tamil Nadu that are accredited by the UGC and offer online/distance MBA programs.
List of Top 9 Distance/Online MBA Colleges in Tamil Nadu
| College/ University Name | Fee (INR) | NIRF Rank |
| 1. SRM Institute of Science and Technology | ₹ 60,000 Total | 32 |
| 2. Tamil Nadu Open University | ₹ 25,000 Total | |
| 3. Pondicherry University | ₹ 40,000 – ₹ 75,500 Total(based on electives) | |
| 4. Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology | ₹ 90,000 Total | 84 |
| 5. Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education | ₹ 70,000 Total | 48 |
| 6. B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology | ₹ 100,000 Total (distance learning) & ₹ 160,000 Total (online learning) | |
| 7. Periyar University | ₹ 49,860 Total | |
| 8. University of Madras | ₹ 40,750 Total | 65 |
| 9. Alagappa University | ₹ 80,300 Total | 56 |
1. SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Since 1985, the SRM Institute has established a reputation for offering exceptional programs and is recognized as one of the leading universities in India. The curriculum is regularly updated to align with the most current industry standards. In order to meet the educational requirements of a larger region, the university established a UGC-accredited Directorate of Distance and Online Learning.
The online and distance education programs utilize a flexible micro-learning approach and offer full career guidance. In the previous year, SRM had over 1,100 companies visit their campus to recruit qualified candidates.
| Established Year | 1985 |
| Ownership | Private |
| Location | Chennai and more |
| Course | Online MBA |
| Duration | 2 Years |
| Programme Mode | ODL Mode |
| Approvals/ Accreditation | UGC – DEB, NAAC ‘A’, NIRF ‘32’, QS University Rankings |
| Fee Structure | ₹ 60,000 Total (Distance), and ₹ 47,250 per semester (Online) |
| Classes | Online/Recorded |
2. Tamil Nadu Open University
Tamil Nadu Open University opened in 2003-2004. The state’s first credit-based learning materials were established by the university in 2003. ICT tools have helped the university improve academic quality and access to higher education for 20 years.
The university continues to emphasize the provision of education to all segments of society. As a result of this, the fee structure of Tamil Nadu Open College is highly cost-effective. The distance MBA program is divided into four semesters and offers the opportunity to select a specialization of your preference.
| Established Year | 2003 |
| Ownership | Government |
| Location | Saidapet, Chennai |
| Course | Online MBA |
| Duration | 2 Years |
| Programme Mode | ODL Mode |
| Approvals/ Accreditation | UGC – DEB, AICTE,NAAC ‘A’ |
| Fee Structure | ₹ 12,500 per semester |
| Classes | Online/Recorded |
3. Pondicherry University
Pondicherry University is a reputable central university that was established in 1985. It is a university that is connected to and covers the areas of Puducherry, Lakshadweep, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. In order to establish global standards for learning in the region, the university has formed partnerships with several international institutions. Pondicherry University in India established the Directorate of Distance Learning (DDE) in 1995-1996 to meet the growing need and demand for flexible learning.
Over the last 25 years, DDE has provided a wide range of job-focused programs and established its own placement cell. Even in online courses, students receive full career guidance and access to job opportunities.
| Established Year | 1985 |
| Ownership | Government |
| Location | Puducherry |
| Course | Online MBA |
| Duration | 2 Years |
| Programme Mode | ODL Mode |
| Approvals/ Accreditation | UGC – DEB, AICTE,NAAC ‘A’ |
| Fee Structure | ₹ 40,000 – ₹ 75,500 |
| Classes | Online/Recorded |
4. Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology
The Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology has established a reputation in the region for its dedication to offering students an excellent learning experience without any obstacles. In 2020, the Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE) was established with the aim of broadening the reach of higher education. This center encompasses both online education (OL) and Online and Distance Education (ODL) in accordance with UGC regulations.
The institute provides programs in the fields of the humanities, management, and sciences through distance learning and online methods. Placement services are provided to students who are enrolled in distance and distance learning degree programmes. The institute’s placement cell actively invites prominent recruiters to hire students enrolled in online learning programs. Major recruiters at the Sathyabama Institute include Wipro, Amazon, HCL, ZOHO, IBM, Infosys, Cognizant, TCS, and several others.
| Established Year | 1988 |
| Ownership | Private University |
| Location | Chennai |
| Course | Online/Distance MBA |
| Duration | 2 Years |
| Programme Mode | ODL Mode |
| Approvals/ Accreditation | UGC – DEB, AICTE ,NAAC ‘A’, NIRF ’84’ |
| Fee Structure | ₹ 45,000 per year |
| Classes | Online/Recorded |
5. Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education
The Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education is a highly regarded university that has been accredited by NAAC and recognized as a Deemed University since its establishment in 1984. The campus of the university is situated in Krishnankoil and provides a range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs, as well as online and distance learning options. Programs in Online Learning (OL) and distance learning (ODL) are equivalent in quality to regular on-campus programs.
Candidates can take advantage of campus placement and alumni network while learning at their own schedule without making any compromises. Through industry collaborations, the curriculum is consistently updated and customized to meet corporate standards.
| Established Year | 1984 |
| Ownership | Private University |
| Location | Krishnankoil, Tamil Nadu |
| Course | Online/Distance MBA |
| Duration | 2 Years |
| Programme Mode | ODL Mode |
| Approvals/ Accreditation | UGC – DEB, NAAC ‘A’, NIRF ‘48’, QS 601-650 |
| Fee Structure | ₹ 35,000 per year |
| Classes | Online/Recorded |
6. B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology
The Crescent Institute of Science and Technology has a 39-year history of providing high-quality education and offering a diverse range of academic opportunities for students. The university has not only achieved an important milestone in providing top-notch education but additionally assisted students with promising job placements. Each year, prominent multinational corporations such as Amazon, Capgemini, IBM, Cognizant, Zoho, Mindtree, Virtusa, and others, hire students from Crescent.
This institution offers MBA programs in both online and distance learning modes. Therefore, a learner has the ability to select according to their particular needs. The Centre of Distance and Online Education (CDOE) offers a highly effective learning management system and experienced faculty members to ensure a seamless and continuous learning experience.
| Established Year | 1984 |
| Ownership | Private University |
| Location | Near Tambaram, Chennai |
| Course | Online/Distance MBA |
| Duration | 2 Years |
| Programme Mode | ODL Mode |
| Approvals/ Accreditation | UGC – DEB,NAAC ‘A’ |
| Fee Structure | ₹ 25,000 per semester (distance), and ₹ 40,000 per semester (online) |
| Classes | Online/Recorded |
7. Periyar University
Periyar University, established in 1997 in the Salem region, is named after the renowned social reformer E.V. Ramasamy, also known as ‘Thanthai Periyar’. The university offers higher education through three distinct modes: affiliated universities, the Department of Study and Research, and the Periyar Institute of Distance Education (PRIDE).
The university provides a range of online programs, including B. Com., B.A. (English), M.A. (History), MBA, M.Sc. (Mathematics), Master of Commerce, and M.A. (English), all of which fall under the Centre for Distance and Online Education.
| Established Year | 1997 |
| Ownership | State University |
| Location | Salem |
| Course | Online/Distance MBA |
| Duration | 2 Years |
| Programme Mode | ODL Mode |
| Approvals/ Accreditation | UGC-DEB, AICTE, NAAC ‘A’, ARIIA Rank 4 |
| Fee Structure | ₹ 71,000 full course |
| Classes | Online/Recorded |
8. University of Madras
The University of Madras was officially founded in 1857 and its motto is “learning promotes one’s innate talent.” During its establishment, it was structured based on the University of London’s model. The university established its distance education division in 1981, which is approaching 40 years of operation. The Institute of Distance Education currently provides a total of 22 postgraduate courses, 16 undergraduate programs, 16 certification courses, and 19 diploma courses.
Admission to all distance education programs is available year-round. There are two academic sessions, one from July to June and another from January to December.
| Established Year | 1857 |
| Ownership | Government University |
| Location | Chennai |
| Course | Online/Distance MBA |
| Duration | 2 Years |
| Programme Mode | ODL Mode |
| Approvals/ Accreditation | UGC-DEB, NIRF 65, NAAC ‘A |
| Fee Structure | ₹ 40,750 full course |
| Classes | Online/Recorded |
9. Alagappa University
Established in 1985, the primary objective of Alagappa University is to promote research, development, and the sharing of knowledge. The university provides a diverse selection of programs through traditional, online, weekend, and cooperative formats. These modes together support a community of 1.12 lakh learners.
Throughout the years, the university has obtained many awards and accreditations, ensuring the legitimacy of all its programs. Alagappa University, an established member of the esteemed Commonwealth Colleges and Association of Indian Universities, has established strategic alliances with numerous national and international institutions. The online MBA program offered by this university is designed to meet the current industry demands and offers the opportunity to select an elective course of your preference to enhance your expertise.
| Established Year | 1985 |
| Ownership | State University |
| Location | Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu |
| Course | Online/Distance MBA |
| Duration | 2 Years |
| Programme Mode | ODL Mode |
| Approvals/ Accreditation | UGC-DEB, NAAC ‘A’, NIRG ’56’, QS |
| Fee Structure | ₹ 80,300 full course |
| Classes | Online/Recorded |
Online JAIN University
- MBA
- Established 1990
- UGC-DEB | NAAC A++
- NR 50,000 per semester
AMITY UNIVERSITY
- MBA
- Established 2012
- UGC-DEB, NIRF, NAAC A+,NIRF,AOIS,IAU
- 1.5lacs to 1.76 lacs
LOVELY PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY
- MBA
- Established 2005
- UGC-DEB, NAAC A++, NIRF, NCTE, AICTE,
- 24,500/ per semester
CHANDIGARH UNIVERSITY
- MBA
- Established 2012
- UGC-DEB | NAAC A+
- 57800 INR
ANNAMALAI UNIVERSITY
- MBA
- Established 1997
- UGC | NAAC A+
- 31,000 to 50,000 INR
University of Mumbai
- MBA
- Established 2006
- UGC | NAAC+ | NCTE
- 50650 INR
Jaipur National University
- MBA
- Established 2012
- UGC-DEB | NAAC A+
- 70,000 to 1.9Lakh INR
IGNOU
- MBA
- Established 1985
- UGC | NAAC A+
- 72000 INR
SMU
- MBA
- Established 2006
- UGC | NAAC+ | NCTE
- 1,09,500INR
Also read- Top 10 Online MBA Colleges in India
Eligibility Criteria
Graduation – Candidates must be graduates from a recognized university with a minimum 50% score in any discipline (university requirements vary).
Exam: Most universities do not require an entrance exam for online/distance MBA admission. Some institutions require CAT/MAT/CMAT/XAT scores or administer their own exam.
Work Experience – Most universities do not require previous work experience for Executive MBA admission, but some require 3-5 years.
Age Limit – Indian online/distance MBA candidates must be 21 years old, but there is no upper age limit.
Conclusion
Regardless of whether you are a recent graduate or an employed individual, pursuing an online or distance MBA degree offers benefits to all. The advantages of remote courses are multiple, ranging from cost-effective fee structures and flexible learning hours to the ability to learn at one’s own pace. In modern times, recruiters regard online degrees on par with traditional ones. Hence, the value of an online/distance MBA program is dependent upon your particular interests and objectives.
