Relationships between motivators and criteria in the selection of a distance learning MBA programme in Hong Kong

The number of distance learning MBA programmes in Hong Kong has dramatically increased in the past decade. The Hong Kong government has to exercise regulatory measures to control the quality of these programmes. This study explores why Hong Kong managers decide to pursue a distance learning MBA degree and the criteria they use in selecting a desirable programme. An MBA degree was pursued mainly because of the urge of retaining an edge in the competitive job market, improving prospects for further career development, and for self achievement. Hierarchical regression analysis results indicated that career development related to all programme selection criteria whereas respondents who were motivated by self achievement emphasized practical issues such as cost, duration, and the structure of the programme itself.