Onlinebusinessschool.com Review

Based on looking at the website, Onlinebusinessschool.com presents itself as a platform offering online university pathway programs leading to UK university qualifications.

While the site highlights affordable study options, flexible learning, and tutor support, some key aspects that would typically instill greater confidence in an educational institution’s legitimacy appear to be less prominent or absent on the homepage.

This includes a clear display of accreditations, detailed partnership information, and easily verifiable testimonials or success stories.

Here’s an overall review summary:

• Overall Legitimacy: Appears to offer legitimate pathway programs, but lacks some standard transparency elements.
• Accreditation Information: OFQUAL awarding organization mentioned for diplomas, but direct university accreditation for degrees or pathways is not clearly presented upfront.
• Partnership Clarity: UK university partners are mentioned, but a comprehensive, easily verifiable list with direct links or specific details is not immediately accessible on the homepage.
• Cost Transparency: Pricing starts at £20 enrollment with a £300 off offer, but the full fee structure for various courses and top-up degrees isn’t immediately clear.
• Support System: Promises personal tutors, 24/7 connection, and professional development hubs, which are positive.
• User Experience: Website is generally well-organized, making it easy to navigate course levels and learning processes.
• Ethical Consideration: From an ethical standpoint, the service itself providing educational pathways is generally permissible. However, due diligence is crucial to ensure all claims regarding university recognition and diploma validity are substantiated before committing, as misrepresentation in education can lead to significant financial and time waste.

The Online Business School positions itself as a stepping stone to higher education, allowing learners to “fast track” their way to a UK university qualification.

They emphasize affordability, with degrees and MBAs from UK universities supposedly costing less than £6,000, along with a tempting £20 enrollment fee and £300 off courses using a specific code.

The platform offers various levels, from IGCSE & short courses to Level 7 Masters/MBA equivalents, aiming to cater to different academic backgrounds.

They detail a learning journey involving online modules, multiple-choice tests, and written assignments, culminating in an OFQUAL awarded diploma, which then qualifies students for a “top-up” degree at a partner university.

While this model can be beneficial for some, the lack of immediate, explicit validation for their university partnerships and comprehensive accreditation details raises questions that prospective students should thoroughly investigate.

Trustworthy educational platforms typically prioritize transparently showcasing their affiliations and regulatory compliance from the outset.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Best Alternatives for Ethical Online Learning & Skill Development:

When seeking ethical and robust online learning opportunities that align with sound principles, focusing on platforms with clear academic credentials, verifiable partnerships, and a strong track record is paramount.

Here are some top alternatives for various aspects of business education and skill development:

• Coursera

  

  • Key Features: Offers courses, specializations, and degrees from top universities e.g., University of Pennsylvania, Stanford, Google and companies worldwide. Covers a vast range of subjects, including business, data science, technology, and arts. Many courses offer flexible deadlines and peer-graded assignments.
  • Average Price: Varies widely. individual courses from free audit to hundreds of dollars, Specializations from $39-$79/month, MasterTrack Certificates from $2,000-$5,000, and full degrees from $9,000-$40,000+.
  • Pros: High-quality content, reputable institutions, diverse course offerings, recognized certificates, flexible learning paths.
  • Cons: Can be expensive for full degrees/specializations, requires self-discipline.

• edX

  • Key Features: Founded by Harvard and MIT, edX provides university-level courses in a wide array of disciplines, including business, computer science, engineering, and humanities. Offers MicroMasters programs, Professional Certificates, and full online degrees.
  • Average Price: Free for audit track, verified certificates usually $50-$300, MicroMasters programs can be $1,000-$1,500, and full degrees typically range from $10,000-$25,000+.
  • Pros: Top-tier university content, strong academic rigor, diverse learning formats, financial aid available for many programs.
  • Cons: Less flexible than some platforms due to structured course schedules, some programs can be costly.

• LinkedIn Learning

  • Key Features: Focuses on professional skills with thousands of courses in business, technology, and creative fields. Offers learning paths, industry-recognized certificates, and integration with LinkedIn profiles for career advancement.
  • Average Price: Subscription-based, typically around $29.99/month or $19.99/month with an annual plan. Free trial often available.
  • Pros: Excellent for practical skill development, short and engaging video lessons, widely recognized in professional circles, great for career enhancement.
  • Cons: Does not offer university degrees, content can sometimes be less in-depth than academic platforms.

• Udemy

  • Key Features: A massive open online course MOOC provider with courses taught by independent instructors. Offers a vast selection across almost every imaginable topic, from business and programming to personal development and hobbies. Known for its affordable, lifetime access model.
  • Average Price: Courses typically range from $12.99 to $199.99, but frequent sales mean courses are often available for $10-$20.
  • Pros: Huge variety of courses, very affordable especially during sales, lifetime access to purchased courses, practical and skill-focused.
  • Cons: Quality can vary widely between instructors, no formal accreditation or university degrees.

• FutureLearn

  • Key Features: Offers online courses, programs, and degrees from leading universities and cultural institutions worldwide. Strong focus on social learning with community interaction. Wide range of subjects, including business, healthcare, and creative arts.
  • Average Price: Free access for a limited time on most courses, paid upgrades for certificates typically $50-$200, ExpertTracks from $150-$400, and degrees can range from $10,000-$30,000+.
  • Pros: Reputable partners, good for guided learning, strong community aspect, diverse course catalog.
  • Cons: Free access is time-limited, some programs can be pricey.

• Khan Academy

  • Key Features: A non-profit educational organization providing free, world-class education in subjects like math, science, computer programming, history, art history, and economics. While not degree-granting, it’s excellent for foundational knowledge and supplementary learning.
  • Average Price: Free.
  • Pros: Completely free, high-quality foundational content, great for self-paced learning and brushing up on basics, widely trusted resource.
  • Cons: No official degrees or professional certificates, not suitable for advanced or specialized business training.

• Google Digital Garage

  • Key Features: Offers free online courses and certifications, primarily focused on digital marketing, career development, and data. Courses are self-paced and come with Google-recognized certificates for some programs.
  • Pros: Free, high-quality, practical skills directly applicable to the job market, recognized by Google.
  • Cons: Limited to digital and career-focused topics, no formal degrees, less academic depth.

These alternatives provide strong ethical foundations by prioritizing clear educational outcomes, reputable affiliations, and often greater transparency regarding their offerings and partnerships.

Onlinebusinessschool.com Review & First Look

Onlinebusinessschool.com positions itself as a gateway to UK university qualifications through online diploma programs.

On initial inspection, the website highlights affordability and flexibility as core tenets of its offering.

The promise of “fast tracking learners to a university qualification” and achieving a degree or MBA for “less than £6,000” certainly catches the eye of prospective students looking for cost-effective higher education.

The user interface is relatively clean and easy to navigate, with sections clearly delineating different course levels Level 3, 4 & 5, 6, 7, explanations of how top-up degrees work, and an overview of the learning journey.

Understanding the Online Business School Model

The model presented by Online Business School is that of a “university pathway provider.” This means they offer diplomas that, upon successful completion, allow students to “top up” their qualification to a full undergraduate degree or MBA at one of their partner UK universities. This isn’t a direct degree from Online Business School itself but rather a preliminary phase. The process involves studying online modules, completing multiple-choice tests and written assignments, and receiving an OFQUAL The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation awarded diploma. OFQUAL is a non-ministerial department of the UK government that regulates qualifications, examinations, and assessments. While OFQUAL regulates the diplomas offered by Online Business School, the legitimacy of the final degree hinges entirely on the accreditation and recognition of the partner universities.

Initial Impressions of Transparency and Trust

While the website details the learning process and support mechanisms, the immediate visibility of crucial accreditation details and explicit university partnerships is somewhat subdued.

For an educational institution, especially one facilitating university progression, transparency is key.

The homepage mentions “UK universities” and “respected UK universities” but doesn’t immediately provide a prominent, verifiable list of these institutions or direct links to their partnership agreements.

This lack of upfront clarity can be a red flag for those meticulously researching their educational investments.

A trusted educational platform would ideally display logos, names, and even direct links to their university partners’ official websites with clear statements about the partnership. Worldwidetranscripts.com Review

Onlinebusinessschool.com Pros & Cons

Delving deeper into Onlinebusinessschool.com, it’s essential to weigh the potential benefits against the areas that might give prospective students pause.

The platform has certain features that could appeal to a specific demographic, but also aspects that necessitate careful consideration.

Key Advantages of Online Business School

One of the most appealing aspects highlighted on the website is the affordability. The claim of achieving a UK university degree or MBA for “less than £6,000” is significantly lower than traditional university fees in the UK, which often exceed £9,000 per year for domestic students and much more for international students. This could be a must for individuals constrained by budget.

• Flexible Learning Environment: The platform emphasizes a “100% online” model, allowing students to learn “anytime, anywhere, on any device.” This flexibility is invaluable for working professionals, parents, or individuals with other commitments who cannot attend traditional on-campus classes.
  • Self-paced Study: “You can complete these modules at your own pace, as there is no deadline to complete the course.” This feature is a significant draw for those who prefer to manage their own study schedule without strict deadlines.
• Pathway to UK Universities: For many international students, gaining a UK university qualification is a significant goal. Online Business School offers a structured pathway, potentially simplifying the application process to specific partner universities once the diploma is obtained.
• Tutor and Mentor Support: The website states, “When you enrol onto your chosen course, you will be assigned a personal tutor.” This personalized support, available via email, phone, or Zoom, is crucial for online learners who might feel isolated without direct instructor interaction.
• OFQUAL Approved Courses: The mention of “OFQUAL awarding organisation” for their diplomas adds a layer of governmental recognition for the vocational qualifications they offer. OFQUAL’s role is to ensure quality and standards of qualifications in the UK. This indicates the diploma itself is a regulated qualification.

Potential Drawbacks and Areas for Caution

While the benefits are attractive, there are critical elements that warrant careful scrutiny before committing to Online Business School.

These revolve primarily around transparency, the “top-up” model, and the actual value proposition.

• Ambiguity of University Partnerships: The website frequently mentions “respected UK universities” or “partner universities” but does not explicitly list them on the homepage or provide a clear, dedicated section with verified links. This lack of direct transparency is a significant concern. Prospective students should ideally be able to verify these partnerships directly with the universities themselves. Without this, the “top-up” promise remains vague.
  • Verification is Key: A truly transparent platform would list its partner universities with their logos and direct links, ideally accompanied by an official statement on the university’s own website confirming the partnership.
• “Top-Up” Degree Limitations: The “top-up” model means that the degree is not earned directly from Online Business School. Students complete their diploma and then apply for entry into the final year or equivalent of a degree program at a partner university. This process might involve additional application fees, specific entry requirements from the university, and there’s no guaranteed admission.
  • Additional Costs: While the initial diploma cost is low, the “top-up” fee at the university needs to be factored in. While the website mentions “less than £6,000” for the full degree, it’s unclear if this includes the OBS diploma fees and the university’s “top-up” fees combined, or just the latter.
• Accreditation of the Final Degree: While OFQUAL regulates the diploma, the accreditation of the final degree rests solely with the partner university. Students need to ensure the partner university is recognized and accredited by the relevant bodies in the UK e.g., degree-awarding powers granted by the Privy Council, quality assurance by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education QAA.
• No Explicit Refund/Cancellation Policy on Homepage: While flexible payment options are mentioned, details regarding refund policies, withdrawal procedures, or how to cancel a subscription/enrollment are not immediately visible on the homepage, which can be a point of concern for consumers.
• Limited Direct Testimonials/Success Stories: While there are news articles featuring the director, readily verifiable testimonials from former students who successfully completed the pathway and secured a top-up degree at a partner university are not prominently displayed on the homepage. Social proof and verifiable success stories are crucial for building trust in online education.

In summary, Online Business School offers an intriguing, affordable pathway to UK qualifications, but the onus is heavily on the prospective student to conduct thorough due diligence, particularly regarding university partnerships and the full financial implications of the “top-up” degree model.

Onlinebusinessschool.com Pricing

Understanding the financial commitment required by Onlinebusinessschool.com is crucial for prospective students.

The website makes a bold claim about affordability, stating that one can “Study for a degree or MBA from UK universities for less than £6,000.” However, deciphering the exact cost structure requires piecing together information from various parts of the homepage.

Initial Enrollment and Discounts

The most prominent pricing detail on the homepage is an offer: “Enrol for £20 and get £300 off all courses! Use code 300OFF”. This suggests a low barrier to entry for the initial enrollment.

• Enrollment Fee: £20
• Discount Offered: £300 off all courses with code 300OFF

It’s important to note that this initial £20 enrollment fee and the £300 discount likely apply to the Online Business School’s diploma programs, not directly to the university “top-up” portion of the degree. The website states, “affordable study programmes with exclusive online modules fast tracking learners to a university qualification.” This implies the primary cost structure is for these initial diploma modules. Blomp.com Review

The “Less than £6,000” Claim

The claim of obtaining a degree for “less than £6,000” is intriguing but lacks immediate, transparent breakdown. This figure would presumably encompass:

1. Online Business School Diploma Fees: The cost of completing the Level 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 diplomas. The exact cost of each diploma isn’t explicitly listed on the homepage, only the initial enrollment and discount.
2. Partner University “Top-Up” Fees: The cost charged by the UK university for the final year or dissertation module needed to convert the OBS diploma into a full degree or MBA. These fees can vary significantly between universities and programs.

Without a detailed breakdown of both the OBS diploma fees and the estimated “top-up” fees from partner universities, the “less than £6,000” figure remains a general estimate. Prospective students should prepare for these two distinct phases of payment.

Flexible Payment Options

The website mentions “Flexible payment options,” which is a positive feature, potentially allowing students to spread the cost of their OBS diploma over time.

However, specific details about these payment plans e.g., monthly installments, interest rates if any, duration of payment plans are not immediately available on the homepage.

This flexibility is often crucial for online learners who may be managing their finances while working.

Hidden Costs and Clarifications Needed

When budgeting for an online degree via a pathway provider, prospective students should also consider:

• Application Fees: Some universities may charge an application fee for the “top-up” degree.
• Examination Fees: While online assessments are mentioned, it’s worth clarifying if there are any separate fees for these or for final assessments by the awarding body or university.
• Study Materials: While online modules are implied, check if any required textbooks or supplementary materials incur additional costs.
• Visa/Travel Costs if applicable: If a student opts for an on-campus “top-up” experience in the UK, visa application fees, travel, and living expenses would be significant additional costs, completely separate from the tuition.

In conclusion, while Online Business School promotes affordability, a comprehensive understanding of the total cost requires deeper investigation beyond the homepage.

Prospective students should proactively seek a detailed fee schedule for both the diploma programs and clear estimates for the partner university “top-up” fees to make an informed financial decision.

Onlinebusinessschool.com Alternatives

When considering online education, especially for business qualifications, it’s crucial to explore a range of alternatives that offer different models, accreditation levels, and learning experiences.

While Onlinebusinessschool.com provides a pathway, other platforms might better suit specific needs or offer more direct university qualifications. Biovittawellness.com Review

Comparison with Traditional Online Universities

Unlike Online Business School’s pathway model, many traditional universities now offer fully online degrees directly. These programs typically have:

• Direct Accreditation: The degree is awarded directly by the university, which is accredited by national or regional bodies e.g., QAA in the UK, regional accreditors in the US. This offers a clearer path to a recognized degree.
• Unified Cost Structure: All fees for the entire degree program are usually presented upfront, making budgeting simpler.
• Comprehensive Student Services: Access to full university resources, including career services, libraries, and alumni networks.

Examples include online degrees from the University of London, Open University, or various US universities. These often come with higher price tags but offer direct university credentials.

MOOC Platforms Offering Certificates and Specializations

Massive Open Online Course MOOC platforms like Coursera and edX are excellent alternatives for gaining high-quality business knowledge and professional certificates, often from top-tier universities.

• Coursera: Offers courses, Specializations, and even full Master’s degrees from institutions like the University of Illinois iMBA, Imperial College London Global MBA, and HEC Paris. Their “Professional Certificates” are highly regarded in specific industry sectors.
• edX: Provides MicroMasters programs and Professional Certificates from universities like MIT and Wharton, which can sometimes count towards a full Master’s degree at a partner institution. They also offer full online Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
• Key Differentiator: While OBS focuses on a “top-up” to a degree, MOOC platforms offer both standalone certifications for specific skills and fully integrated online degrees.

Professional Development Platforms

For those primarily seeking to enhance specific business skills or gain industry-recognized credentials without pursuing a full degree, platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Udemy are strong alternatives.

• LinkedIn Learning: Ideal for practical skills in areas like project management, marketing, data analysis, and leadership. Courses are taught by industry experts, and completion certificates can be displayed on LinkedIn profiles.
• Udemy: Offers an enormous variety of courses on business topics, often very affordable, taught by independent instructors. While quality can vary, many courses provide practical, hands-on learning for specific tools or methodologies.
• Key Differentiator: These platforms are generally not degree-granting but are excellent for continuous professional development, upskilling, or exploring new career paths.

Ethical Business & Finance Education Platforms

When considering ethical alternatives, especially from an Islamic perspective, it’s important to look for platforms that uphold principles of fair dealing, transparency, and avoid interest-based models.

While most mainstream business education doesn’t explicitly focus on Islamic finance, one can find specialized courses or look for institutions with strong ethical codes.

• Islamic Finance Education: For those specifically interested in Islamic finance and business ethics, institutions like the INCEIF International Centre for Education in Islamic Finance in Malaysia or programs offered by some universities in the Middle East provide specialized degrees and certifications.
• Ethical Leadership and Management Courses: Many universities and business schools offer courses on corporate social responsibility, ethical leadership, and sustainable business practices. These can be found on platforms like Coursera and edX.

The best alternative depends on individual goals: a direct degree, a pathway, specific skill enhancement, or specialized ethical education.

Thorough research into accreditation, curriculum, cost, and direct university partnerships is paramount for any online learning investment.

How to Cancel Onlinebusinessschool.com Subscription

While the Online Business School website mentions “flexible payment options,” direct information on how to cancel a subscription or withdraw from a course is not prominently displayed on the homepage.

This lack of upfront clarity is a common concern with online service providers and warrants specific attention. 88vape.com Review

Standard Cancellation Procedures for Online Education

Typically, online educational platforms or course providers have a designated policy for cancellation, refunds, or withdrawal. This usually involves:

1. Checking Terms and Conditions: The most authoritative source for cancellation policies will be the full Terms and Conditions or Terms of Service document, which is usually linked in the footer of the website. This document will outline the specific conditions under which a student can cancel, any applicable refund periods, and potential penalties.
2. Contacting Support: The primary method for initiating a cancellation or withdrawal is usually by contacting the provider’s customer support or admissions department directly. The Online Business School mentions “Tutor and mentor support structure,” so it’s likely they would also handle administrative queries.
   • Email: Sending a formal email to their stated support or administrative email address is often required for documentation purposes.
   • Phone: A direct phone call can sometimes expedite the process or provide immediate clarification.
   • Support Portal: Some platforms have a dedicated student portal where cancellation requests can be submitted.

Common Scenarios and Potential Outcomes

• Refund Periods: Many online courses offer a short refund window e.g., 7, 14, or 30 days from the date of enrollment, provided the student has not completed a significant portion of the course material or accessed certain resources. If a refund is sought outside this window, it may be partial or denied.
• Prorated Refunds: For longer programs or subscriptions, some providers offer prorated refunds based on the amount of material accessed or the time elapsed in the enrollment period.
• Withdrawal vs. Cancellation: Differentiate between simply stopping payments which might lead to outstanding debt and formally withdrawing from the course or program according to the provider’s policy. Formal withdrawal protects a student from future billing and potentially negative academic records.
• Access to Course Materials: Upon cancellation, access to course modules, support, and resources will typically be revoked.

Action Steps for Online Business School Students

To cancel an Online Business School subscription or withdraw from a course, a student should:

1. Locate the Terms and Conditions: Scroll to the footer of the Onlinebusinessschool.com website and look for links like “Terms & Conditions,” “Refund Policy,” or “Cancellation Policy.”
2. Identify Contact Information: Find the official email address or phone number for student support or administration.
3. Initiate Contact: Clearly state the intention to cancel or withdraw, providing all necessary enrollment details e.g., name, course enrolled in, enrollment date, student ID if applicable.
4. Document Everything: Keep records of all communication, including dates, times, names of representatives, and summaries of conversations. If canceling via email, save the sent emails.

Given the importance of financial commitments in education, the absence of an easily discoverable cancellation policy on the homepage is a point of concern. Transparency in this area is a hallmark of ethical service providers. Prospective students should always review these policies before enrolling in any online program.

How to Cancel Onlinebusinessschool.com Free Trial

The Online Business School website prominently features a “Try for free” option, allowing prospective students to “try our short module to introduce you to the OBS online learning experience.” While a free trial is an excellent way to assess a platform, understanding how to terminate it before incurring charges, if applicable, is critical.

Typical Free Trial Mechanisms

Most online services offering free trials operate in one of two ways:

1. No Credit Card Required: The trial simply grants access for a limited time or to limited content. No payment information is collected upfront, so there’s nothing to “cancel” in terms of billing. Access simply expires.
2. Credit Card Required Auto-Renewal: Payment information is collected at the start of the trial. If the trial isn’t cancelled before its expiration date, it automatically converts into a paid subscription, and the user’s card is charged.

Given the general nature of online education platforms, it’s more likely that Online Business School’s free trial falls into the first category, especially since it’s described as trying a “short module.” However, without explicit clarification on the “Try for free” page itself or in the general terms, it’s impossible to confirm which model they use.

Action Steps to Avoid Unwanted Charges

If a free trial requires credit card information or if there’s any ambiguity about automatic conversion to a paid enrollment especially if the “£20 enrolment fee” is somehow linked after the trial:

1. Review the Free Trial Specifics: Before signing up for the free trial, read any fine print associated with the “Try for free” button or page. Look for statements like “No credit card required,” “Cancel anytime,” or “Your trial will expire automatically.”
2. Check Your Account Settings: If you proceeded with the free trial, log into your Online Business School account if one was created. Look for a “Subscription,” “Billing,” or “Settings” section where you might find an option to manage or cancel your trial.
3. Check for Automatic Payments: If you linked a credit card or PayPal, check your payment provider’s recurring payments or subscriptions list to see if Online Business School is listed. If so, you might be able to cancel future payments directly from there, though it’s always best to cancel through the service itself first.
4. Contact Support if Unsure: If there is any doubt about whether the free trial will lead to an automatic charge, or if you cannot find a clear cancellation option, immediately contact Online Business School’s support team.
   • Email is Best: Send an email clearly stating your intention to terminate the free trial and requesting confirmation that no charges will be incurred. Keep this email as proof.

Importance of Clarity in Free Trial Offers

For ethical online service providers, the terms of a free trial should be exceptionally clear upfront, especially if it involves collecting payment information.

This transparency builds user trust and prevents accidental subscriptions, which can be a source of frustration and negative reviews.

The current presentation of the “Try for free” option on Online Business School’s homepage does not immediately provide these critical details, necessitating proactive checking by the user. Landsonstudios.com Review

Onlinebusinessschool.com vs. Other Pathways

When comparing Onlinebusinessschool.com to other educational pathways, it’s essential to analyze their core models, target audiences, and the value proposition each brings.

The primary differentiator for OBS is its focus on a “fast-track” diploma-to-degree model for UK qualifications.

Online Business School’s Pathway Model

OBS’s model is a two-stage process:

1. Diploma Completion: Students complete online modules and assessments with OBS, earning an OFQUAL-regulated diploma e.g., Level 4/5 for first/second year university equivalent, or Level 7 for Master’s entry.
2. University Top-Up: Upon successful completion of the diploma, students apply to a partner UK university to complete the final year of a Bachelor’s degree or the final module/dissertation of an MBA.

Pros:

• Cost-Effective Entry: Potentially much cheaper for the initial diploma phase compared to a full university enrollment from day one.
• Flexibility: 100% online, self-paced modules, good for balancing commitments.
• Structured Progression: Provides a clear academic progression route for those seeking UK qualifications.

Cons:

• Indirect Degree Award: The degree is not awarded by OBS. it’s a partner university degree, requiring a separate “top-up” phase.
• Ambiguous Partnerships: Lack of upfront, clear listing and verification of specific university partners.
• Potential for Additional Costs: The “top-up” fees from the university and potential application fees are separate from OBS’s initial enrollment.

Vs. Direct Online Degrees from Universities e.g., University of London, Open University

Model: These institutions offer full Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees directly online, with the degree awarded by the university itself.

• Direct Accreditation: The degree is from a fully accredited university, providing immediate recognition.
• Unified Curriculum: The entire program is designed and delivered by the university, ensuring coherence.
• Full University Services: Access to university library resources, career services, alumni networks.
• Higher Cost: Generally more expensive than the initial OBS diploma, though potentially comparable to the total cost including the OBS diploma and university top-up.
• Less Flexible Entry: Often have stricter admission requirements and fixed academic calendars.

Vs. MOOC Platforms Coursera, edX for Full Degrees

Model: These platforms partner with top universities globally to host full online Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, often with specific admission cycles and robust academic support.

• Prestigious Institutions: Access to degrees from world-renowned universities e.g., University of Illinois, Imperial College, MIT.
• Globally Recognized: Degrees are internationally recognized.
• Diverse Options: Wide range of specializations and fields.
• Significant Investment: Tuition can be substantial, often comparable to or even exceeding on-campus fees.
• Rigorous Admission: Can have competitive entry requirements.

Vs. Professional Certification/Skill-Building Platforms LinkedIn Learning, Udemy

Model: Focus on delivering practical skills and professional certifications rather than academic degrees.

• Highly Practical: Content is often directly applicable to job roles and industry needs.
• Affordable/Subscription-Based: Very cost-effective for skill development.
• Fast Completion: Many courses are self-paced and can be completed relatively quickly.
• No Degree Award: Do not lead to academic degrees, only certificates of completion or professional certifications.
• Less Academic Depth: While practical, they may not offer the theoretical depth of a full university curriculum.

In essence, Online Business School offers a niche solution for those specifically seeking a flexible, potentially lower-cost entry into a UK university degree. However, prospective students must be fully aware that it’s a pathway, not a direct degree-granting institution, and the ultimate recognition and value depend on the partner university they eventually “top up” with. For direct university credentials, greater flexibility, or targeted skill development, other alternatives might be more suitable.

FAQ

What is Onlinebusinessschool.com?

Onlinebusinessschool.com is an online learning platform that offers university pathway programs, providing diplomas that allow learners to “fast track” their way to a UK university qualification by completing a “top-up” degree or MBA at one of their partner universities. Gfxpro.co Review

Is Onlinebusinessschool.com accredited?

Onlinebusinessschool.com’s diplomas are awarded by an OFQUAL awarding organization, meaning they are regulated by the UK government’s Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation.

The final degree’s accreditation would depend on the UK university where a student completes their “top-up.”

How do Online Business School’s “top-up” degrees work?

After completing the required online modules and assignments with Online Business School and receiving your OFQUAL-awarded diploma, you become eligible to apply for progression onto a final year of a Bachelor’s degree or the final stage of an MBA at a recognized UK university, either on campus or via distance learning.

What qualifications can I earn through Onlinebusinessschool.com?

You can earn diplomas equivalent to UK academic levels: Level 3 A-levels, Level 4 & 5 first and second year of a Bachelor’s, Level 6 graduate level, and Level 7 Masters/MBA entry. These diplomas serve as pathways to full university degrees.

Are the degrees earned through Online Business School fully recognized?

The full degrees are awarded by the partner UK universities, not by Online Business School itself.

Therefore, the recognition of the degree depends on the accreditation and standing of the specific UK university you choose for your “top-up” study.

It is crucial to verify the partner university’s recognition.

How much does Onlinebusinessschool.com cost?

The website mentions an enrollment fee of £20 and a £300 discount on courses with a specific code.

It also claims a full degree or MBA from UK universities can cost “less than £6,000.” This figure likely includes both the Online Business School diploma fees and the subsequent university “top-up” fees, but a detailed breakdown is not immediately available on the homepage.

Does Onlinebusinessschool.com offer flexible payment options?

Yes, the website states they offer “flexible payment options,” which likely allows students to spread the cost of their diploma programs over time. Ecohydra.com Review

However, specific details about these payment plans are not explicitly outlined on the homepage.

What kind of support does Onlinebusinessschool.com offer students?

Online Business School states that enrolled students are assigned a personal tutor for support via email, phone, or Zoom.

They also mention 24/7 connection, online tutorials, webinars, and access to “8 free support hubs” for personal development and well-being.

Can I try a course from Onlinebusinessschool.com for free?

Yes, Onlinebusinessschool.com offers a “Try for free” option that allows prospective students to access a short module to get an introduction to their online learning experience.

What is the assessment process like at Online Business School?

Assessment involves completing online multiple-choice tests after each module 30 questions, one hour, answered in sets of five. Upon passing, you receive a certificate.

After completing all online modules, you take final written assignments provided by OBS, leading to your OFQUAL diploma.

What is OFQUAL and why is it important for Online Business School?

OFQUAL The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation is a non-ministerial department of the UK government that regulates qualifications, examinations, and assessments in England.

Its approval indicates that the diplomas awarded by Online Business School meet certain quality and standards.

How long does it take to complete a course at Onlinebusinessschool.com?

Online Business School states that students can complete modules “at your own pace, as there is no deadline to complete the course,” implying self-paced learning.

The actual duration will depend on the student’s dedication and the course level. Anatomicshoes.com Review

Does Online Business School provide professional body membership?

Yes, the website indicates that “select courses also include free membership of professional bodies appropriate to the course students are enrolled on to,” which can offer benefits like professional development and networking.

Are there specific entry requirements for Online Business School courses?

While general levels are explained e.g., Level 3 equivalent to 2 A levels, specific entry requirements for each course are not detailed on the homepage.

Prospective students should check individual course pages for prerequisites.

Can international students enroll in Onlinebusinessschool.com?

Yes, the website states that Online Business School “delivers online university pathway programmes… to learners from all corners of the world,” indicating it is open to international students.

How does Online Business School compare to Coursera or edX?

Online Business School focuses on a specific “pathway” to UK university degrees.

Coursera and edX are broader MOOC platforms offering a vast range of courses, specializations, professional certificates, and even full degrees from top universities globally, often with direct university accreditation for their degree programs.

What kind of articles or resources does Online Business School offer?

The homepage features a “Latest articles” section with blog posts covering topics such as celebrating excellence, accessible online courses in specific regions e.g., Malta, and navigating remote work while pursuing online degrees.

Is the Online Business School diploma sufficient for employment?

While the OFQUAL-regulated diploma is a recognized qualification in the UK, many employers, especially for higher-level positions, may prefer a full university degree.

The diploma acts primarily as a stepping stone towards that degree.

What types of courses are most popular at Online Business School?

Based on the homepage, some of their most popular courses include Accountancy 60 Credits, Project Management, Psychology, and Logistics and Supply Chain Management. Flymedi.com Review

How transparent is Onlinebusinessschool.com about its university partners?

While the website mentions “respected UK universities” and “partner universities,” a clear, verifiable list of these institutions or direct links to their official partnership pages is not prominently displayed on the homepage.

This lack of explicit transparency requires prospective students to conduct further research.