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MBA Program Profiles
Deciding you want to pursue an MBA degree is only the first step. With so many different types of MBA programs available, how will you know which program is right for you? The following is a breakdown of the most common kinds of MBA programs:
Full-Time MBA Programs
The full-time MBA program is often considered the most traditional program type, although only 20% of MBA students enroll in such programs. Students usually attend classes during the day on weekdays, hold internships during the summer and graduate in two years. These programs best serve professionals who are seeking to make a major career change.
Part-Time MBA Programs
Part-time MBA programs typically offer classes on nights or weekends to allow students to continue working throughout the program. Students may graduate in two years, but some programs allow a student to take five or six years to graduate if they choose to work at a slower pace.
Online MBA Programs
Online MBA, or distance learning programs, have evolved rapidly in recent years and now provide greater flexibility and accessibility to MBA education through a variety of technologies, including video-conferencing, social networking, message boards and email. And with some of the top business schools offering distance-learning degrees, the top tier of business education is now more accessible than ever before.
Executive MBA Programs
Executive MBA programs are designed for professionals who have more years of professionals experience than those in other types of MBA programs. They are administered as part-time two-year degrees, allowing students to keep their jobs while they complete the degree. These programs are best suited for experienced mid-level managers who want to make the leap to executive levels or international business.
Accelerated MBA Programs
Accelerated MBA programs provide many of the benefits of full-time programs while allowing students to spend approximately 10 to 15 months out of the workforce. Students typically have more work experience than in other programs and are focused on career advancement within their field rather than a significant career change.
Blended MBA Programs
Blended, or Hybrid, MBA programs include elements of both brick-and-mortar and online programs. As technology becomes increasingly integrated into business and education, more blended MBA programs are appearing.Many programs officially marketed as online or part-time are actually, to some degree, blended MBA programs.
Accreditation
Accrediting bodies such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and Accreditation Council for Business Schools & Programs (ACBSP) evaluate the quality and credibility of MBA programs, making sure you get your money’s worth out of your tuition.
Getting into the Top MBA Programs
In this video from MBA PodTV, Tyler Cormney and Chris Aitken, co-founders of MBA Prep School share a complete work plan and application strategy for applying to business school — from researching schools and writing your essays to acing your MBA interview.