Here's a simple 6 step checklist to find out which program is the best online MBA program for you and your desires.

1. Pick a school with accreditation.

Picking an accredited MBA school ensures you are getting a valuable education that covers everything you need to know. It also tells current and future employers that you have the proper training they are looking for. Failing to pick an accredited school may also suggest you lack proper judgement.

2. Match your situation and schedule to the MBA program.

Currently, over 72% of MBA students work 40 hours per week. That means the average MBA student cannot attend classes during work hours, and having an online MBA program that accomodates that, and lets you work and still have time with your family will become an important factor in your level of happiness once you are enrolled in the MBA program.

3. Professor-Student Ratio

The number of students that each teacher has is called the class ratio, and when there are between 7 and 15 students in a given class, it maximizes the learning experience, and provides a rich environment for the students and professor to exchange ideas and opinions. This ratio also signifies a financial commitment by the business school, and when they have the right ratio, it often means they have individual advisors that can help ensure you meet your goals and objectives in your MBA experience.

4. World Famous Teachers

Having a well known teacher teach you their area of specialization is one of the great treats in life. You can usually get so immersed in a subject, so powerfully, so completely, that you wonder why you didn't appreciate the subject more fully before. It's a contagious experience, and once you have been taught by thought leaders, you will never want to settle for mediocrity again.

Teaching style is another important thing to consider. Not all business schools teach the same way, and having a style that fits you is an important consideration. When choosing on online MBA program, you should also make sure the school uses innovative online teaching methods.

5. An Alumni Program

An alumni program is where graduates can turn to when they need resources to move their career forward. It offers powerful features, like networking opportunities, possible mentoring opportunities, and online communities where you can keep in touch with others, and build relationships with other graduates.

6. Career Assistance

Did you know that 50% of all MBA graduates get fired or quit within 3 years of graduation? It's good to know now, since picking a school that will help you get that next job can suddenly become a very important thing for you down the road.

Career help is more than just resume writing. They can also help you understand your strengths and abilities, and match that with opportunities in the marketplace. One way this is done is by role playing, where you act out a role, and then watch a video tape and dissect your decisions.

Another nice thing you can do with the better online MBA programs is attend free follow-up courses and lectures, so if you ever need to brush up on a certain topic, you can.

One last thing. It is well documented that an MBA can, in many cases, boost your yearly income by up to 50%. Now that you know this, don't you think you should carefully consider these 6 factors before you make a decision?