Choosing between online programs starts with facts, not marketing. Continents International University is an online university based in St. Louis, Missouri. In July 2024 it was granted candidate status by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE), with the candidacy period running through July 31, 2029. Candidacy is a preparatory step. Its business programs are not yet IACBE-accredited.
Missouri State University is a public university in Springfield, Missouri, founded in 1905. Its College of Business holds accreditation from AACSB International for its undergraduate and master’s business programs, and the university offers online programs, including an online MBA.
The two schools differ in ways that matter. Missouri State is a large public institution with a long history and full programmatic accreditation for business from AACSB. Continents International University is a newer online-only school working through the early stages of the IACBE process.
Online programs in general come in several forms: synchronous classes that meet live, asynchronous courses students complete on their own schedule, blended formats that mix the two, and self-paced options. Any school can claim engagement and support, so ask for specifics. Compare accreditation status, published student outcomes, and total cost before deciding.
For more on studying online, see tips for succeeding in online learning, whether online learning matches in-person learning, and a comparison of Continents International University and the University of Missouri.

