Is an MBA from the IGNOU Distance Learning Program Approved by WES?
When seeking to evaluate the status of a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree obtained from the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) through the distance learning program with the World Education Services (WES), it is crucial to understand the complexities involved and the procedures to follow.
Understanding WES Evaluations for IGNOU’s MBA Program
WES, a renowned organization for educational credential evaluation, categorizes the MBA from IGNOU under a bachelors-level equivalent upon checking on their website. This classification might leave many applicants with questions about the legitimacy and acceptance of their degree.
According to WES, the MBA from IGNOU is noted as equivalent to a bachelor's degree over a four-year period. This categorization suggests that the evaluation considers the credit hours accumulated and the comprehensive nature of the program but places it in the bachelors category rather than at the master’s level.
Why Might WES Classify the MBA from IGNOU as a Bachelors Degree?
The decision by WES to classify the MBA from IGNOU as a bachelors degree can be attributed to several factors, including the nature of the program, the credit hours required, and the curriculum structure. The distance learning program from IGNOU focuses on providing a broad understanding of business administration within a shorter timeframe compared to traditional master’s programs.
Consider that the credit hours required for the MBA program at IGNOU may be less than the typical standard for master’s degree programs, which could be a factor in the WES evaluation. Additionally, the curriculum might not cover as many specialized courses as a full master’s program, leading to a bachelors-level classification.
It is important to note that while WES might classify the MBA from IGNOU as a bachelors degree, this does not necessarily detract from the quality of the education received. Many employers and educational institutions recognize the value and relevance of distance learning programs.
Options for Alternative Evaluations
If you have concerns about the WES evaluation, there are alternative organizations you can consider for credential evaluation. Two such entities are the Canadian Evaluation Service (CES) and the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS).
Canadian Evaluation Service (CES): CES is recognized for its rigorous and comprehensive assessments. They often provide a detailed evaluation report that can provide insights into the equivalence of the MBA from IGNOU in relation to Canadian educational standards. CES is particularly useful if you are planning to study or work in Canada.
International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS): IQAS is another reliable option for credential evaluation. They offer a detailed analysis of your educational qualifications and can provide a report that is valuable for various purposes, including but not limited to work and study visa applications in Australia.
Both CES and IQAS have the expertise to provide a more granular assessment of your educational background. They consider not only the credit hours and curriculum but also the overall structure and depth of your program. This can help in obtaining a more accurate and detailed evaluation of your MBA degree from IGNOU.
Conclusion
While WES may classify the MBA from the IGNOU distance learning program as a bachelors degree, it is important to understand the reasons behind this classification and explore alternative evaluation options such as CES or IQAS. These services can provide a more comprehensive and specific evaluation of your educational qualifications. By doing so, you can ensure that your MBA from IGNOU is accurately recognized and valued by international standards.
Further Reading and Resources
Why Use WES?
Canadian Evaluation Service (CES)
International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS)