MBA Programs

If you are contemplating getting an MBA degree, it is important to familiarize yourself with the different types of MBA programs, so that you can choose the one that best fits your needs. There are five basic types (not to be confused with degree type or concentration) of programs:

• Full Time MBA
• Part Time MBA
• Accelerated MBA
• Executive MBA
• Online MBA

Each program type has its advantages and disadvantages depending upon individual circumstances.

Pros

• Students are continually immersed in the MBA learning environment.
• Students have the option (or are required) to participate in a summer internship, which provides invaluable hands on experience.
• Material is taught at a pace that allows for easier assimilation as compared to an accelerated MBA.

Cons

• Takes approximately two years to complete.
• Full time MBA students need to give up their jobs and source of income to meet the demands of a full time program.

Pros

• Classes are held nights and weekends.
• Format enables participants to keep their jobs and sources of income.

Cons

Pros

• An accelerated MBA program takes approximately a year to complete.
• Shorter time frame means less income lost and a higher chance of returning to the same job.
• As with a full time program, an accelerated MBA program immerses students in learning environment.

Pros

• For some, the pace of a 1 year MBA program may be to fast.

• Executive MBA programs (EMBA) usually take about two years to complete; however, the time requirement is that of a part time program.
• EMBA programs are geared towards those who have several years upper management experience.
• EMBA programs allow employees to retain their jobs; the goal of most participants is to promote in current jobs. Some employers urge/require employees to enroll in order to assume higher positions.

Pros

• Some online degrees can be obtained exclusively online, while others require class attendance to a certain degree.
• Online MBA programs offer great flexibility in meeting program requirements.
• Online MBA students are able to meet the demands of work and family.

Cons

• Online programs do not offer valuable hands on experience.
• Many online degrees are not as well respected as are traditional degrees.
• Online programs offer less networking and job placement opportunities than do traditional programs.

It is important to understand how different types of MBA programs will mesh with your needs, and choose accordingly. To return to the Get-MBA-Info homepage click here.