Part-Time MBA FAQs

We know balancing a graduate program with work and life takes real commitment. This page covers the questions we hear most about the Part-Time MBA, from scheduling and format to admissions, tuition, and career support.

Have a question not answered here? Feel free to email us anytime at [email protected].

 

Overview

The Part-Time MBA (PTMBA) is a 52-credit Master of Business Administration program designed for working professionals. It offers a flexible schedule with in-person evening, Saturday, and online courses.

Working professionals with a minimum of two years of full time, post-bachelors professional work experience who want to earn an MBA while maintaining their full-time career.

Part-time format. Completion time is flexible, typically taking 3.5 years on average, but students can accelerate to about 2.5 years or take up to 7 years. Classes can be completed in a mix of formats, including in-person evening/Saturday classes and online courses.

There are multiple intake periods each year: Spring (January), Summer (June), and Fall (September).

Designed for experienced candidates/working professionals. A minimum of two years of full-time, post-undergraduate professional work experience is required by the time the program begins. Applicants with less work experience are encourage to consider our Business Certificate programs first.

The Part-Time MBA is not STEM-designated and does not qualify students for F-1 visa sponsorship or OPT. International students who are authorized to work in the USA are eligible to apply but must meet all application and admission requirements. Proof of English language proficiency is required.

The Part-Time MBA is built for working professionals, with classes in the evenings, on Saturdays, and online, and allows you to study at your own pace over 2 to 7 years while you continue working. The Full-Time MBA is a cohorted, daytime program with a two-year, immersive structure. You cannot internally transfer from the Part-Time MBA into the Full-Time MBA.

The Part-Time MBA offers in-person evening and Saturday classes on the Minneapolis campus and online sections in many courses. You can complete the degree with a mix of in-person and online courses. It is possible to finish the program entirely through online and Saturday offerings.

No. Carlson does not allow internal transfers from the Part-Time MBA to the Full-Time MBA, as the Full-Time program is cohorted and follows a lockstep core. Part-Time MBA students may take a full-time course load in the Part-Time format, but changing programs requires a separate application to the Full-Time MBA.

Applying to the Part-Time MBA program is straightforward and accessible. Use our online application portal to start your application. We're excited to help you take this next step.

The Part-Time MBA fits working professionals with flexible pacing. Most students complete it in about 3.5 years, but you can accelerate to as little as 2.5 years or extend up to 7 years for all 52 credits. Explore our curriculum and sample plans.

Yes. You can complete the program entirely online or through Saturday courses. Some elective options may be limited in these formats.

We offer flexible scheduling to accommodate travel. You can stack courses in the first half (A-term) or second half (B-term) of a semester to leave the other half open. Faculty address missed classes due to professional travel on a case-by-case basis.

Expect to spend approximately 3-5 hours per week per class on readings, assignments and team projects outside of class. The exact time varies by course and your learning style, but this guideline helps busy professionals plan effectively.

This flexible structure fits right into your schedule, making the Part-Time MBA manageable alongside work and life.

Enrollment counselors are ready to help you explore the Part-Time MBA or discuss your application.

Email [email protected] or call 1-800-293-5689 to connect with our team and get your questions answered.

Admissions

Its high level of flexibility allows students to choose their course load each term and pace completion over 2.5 to 7 years. Choose from over 100 elective courses spanning 15 specializations to tailor the experience to reach your professional goals. The curriculum is built for working professionals and includes a required International Experience component that can be fulfilled with a study abroad experience.

Requirements include a bachelor's degree (in any field), two years of full-time professional work experience, unofficial transcripts, a current resume, two professional recommendations, a personal statement and a required video essay.

Required. A minimum of two years of full-time, post-undergraduate work experience is mandatory by the time the program starts.

GMAT/GRE are not required to apply, but they are recommended for candidates who have undergraduate records below our profile admit. A strong test score signals readiness for the demands of the MBA.

Applications are reviewed in three priority rounds for each of the three start terms (Spring, Summer, Fall). Decisions are typically released within 10 business days after the application is complete.

Minnesota Carlson requires a first degree comparable to a U.S. bachelor's degree. If you are unsure whether your degree is acceptable, inquire early. Degrees from a diverse range of backgrounds are accepted.

You can start in the spring (January), summer (June), or fall (September). Applications are reviewed in three priority rounds for each start term. Decisions are typically released within 10 business days after your application is complete.

Yes. You must provide contact information for two professional recommenders. You also write a personal statement, complete a required video essay, and have the option for context/scholarship essays.

Yes, international students are eligible for the Part-Time MBA. They must meet the same academic and professional standards as all applicants and demonstrate English language proficiency through prior study in English or an approved test (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo) if required.

Note: UMN cannot grant Part-Time MBA students a student visa—you must have a work permit or dependent visa.

Details on the international applicants page

You need at least two years of full-time, post-undergraduate work experience by the time the Part-Time MBA program begins. Professional internships, co-ops, graduate assistantships and similar roles can count toward this requirement.

For example, if you apply in spring for a fall start, work experience from spring and summer can count toward the two-year total (must be met by program start, not application time).

Yes. You can complete a general degree or choose a specialization to fit your career goals. Offerings include:

  • Artificial Intelligence & Analytics for Business
  • Entrepreneurship and Innovation
  • Finance
  • Information Systems
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Medical Industry Leadership Institute (MILI)
  • Supply Chain and Operations
  • Sustainable Environmental, Social, and Governance Management

The Part-Time MBA welcomes applicants with these key requirements: an online application with unofficial transcripts from all colleges/universities attended (official transcripts required upon acceptance), a personal statement essay, current resume, two professional recommendations, a video essay, proof of English proficiency (if applicable) and a $75 application fee.

You'll also need two years of full-time work experience by the start date. GMAT/GRE is optional but may be strongly recommended for some candidates.

See full details on the Requirements & Deadlines page.

Your application is reviewed holistically by the admissions committee, which includes the assistant and associate deans, director of admissions and associate directors of admissions (the Carlson dean may participate case-by-case).

They evaluate your academic performance (transcripts, GPA), standardized test scores, work experience and resume, personal statement and professional references—admitting based on academic credentials and overall program fit.

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) and Graduate Record Examination are standardized computer-adaptive test used by schools to help assess the qualifications of applicants for advanced study in business or management. They measure basic verbal, mathematical and analytical writing skills. Carlson's Part-Time MBA program requires every applicant to take either the GMAT or GRE, without exception.

Prospective students should plan to take the GMAT or GRE on or before the application due date in order to meet the application deadline. We recommend taking the GMAT or GRE at least two to four weeks prior to the application date to ensure timely review of your application. The admissions committee considers only your highest GMAT or GRE score when reviewing your application.

GMAT/GRE scores are optional for Part-Time MBA applicants. The admissions team strongly recommends a test score for applicants with academic weaknesses (e.g., a GPA below a B average or limited quantitative coursework) or those targeting fields like consulting or investment banking.

No, your undergraduate degree or work experience does not need to be in business. We welcome students from broad academic and professional backgrounds—about one-third have business degrees, while others come from engineering, technology, non-profits, education and the arts.

See the full class profile for background details.

You can request a deferral to the next term after your original acceptance. Admission isn't automatically guaranteed—your application goes back into the pool for re-review alongside others.

A new application fee is required, and submission of updated materials is recommended. Contact [email protected] to proceed.

If denied admission, contact the Part-Time MBA program office at [email protected] to request reconsideration for a future term.

Update your online application with any new information—we'll link your previous test scores and transcripts (kept on file for up to two years). Send any new scores or transcripts separately.

You'll need 52 credits to complete the Part-Time MBA. Most students start with two classes per semester for a smooth pace that fits professional life.

Stay active by completing at least two credits per calendar year.

The Part-Time MBA schedule fits seamlessly around full-time work. Classes meet once a week on Monday–Thursday evenings (5:45–9:05 p.m.) or Saturdays (8:00–11:20 a.m. or 12:30–3:50 p.m.).

Flexible formats include full-semester (14 weeks, 4 credits), 11-week (3 credits), and half-semester (7 weeks, 2 credits) options, plus online and condensed courses.

No, you cannot transfer from the Part-Time to the Full-Time MBA program.

The Part-Time MBA offers superior flexibility to suit your professional life, though—including the option to take a full-time course load (evenings and Saturdays) for faster completion. The Full-Time program uses a cohorted model for the first two semesters, with integrated core groups.

Tuition & Aid

Tuition is charged on a per-credit basis. The program requires 52 credits. Total tuition is the per-credit rate multiplied by 52 credits, plus University fees, books, and technology costs. The exact rate is published on the tuition page.

Yes. Applicants are considered for 15% and a limited number of 50% merit-based scholarships. To be considered, candidates should complete the optional scholarship essay in the online application. Outside of scholarships, a 15% tuition discount is also automatically available for U.S. military service members/veterans and employees of corporate partners (Discounts are not stackable with scholarships).

Prospective students should note that while union and non-union positions are available at the masters' level, graduate assistantships are not guaranteed or program-specific to the Part-Time Master of Business Administration. Availability varies by department and role, and part-time MBA students may apply but should not expect assistantships as a primary funding source.

Yes. Many students use a mix of employer tuition benefits, personal savings, federal loans (if eligible) and private loans. Employer support is highly encouraged.

Students must secure their own housing, and the university's One Stop Student Services can provide financial aid and budgeting information.

Tuition is charged at a single rate of $1,797 per credit hour. Since the degree requires 52 credits, the total tuition cost is approximately $93,444, which is subject to change and does not include University fees, books or course materials.

Many students use a mix of employer tuition benefits, personal savings and education loans. You are encouraged to discuss tuition support with your employer. You may also explore federal and private loan options through the University of Minnesota’s One Stop Student Services.

No, Part-Time MBA students do not pay additional fees for evening or online courses. Tuition is a flat per-credit rate ($1,797 per credit), with standard university fees applying uniformly—regardless of course format.​

See full details on the Tuition & Aid page.

Tuition for the Part-Time MBA is billed each term based on the number of credits you register for. Billing due dates and installment plans are set at the university level.

Details available through the University of Minnesota’s One Stop Student Services.

Yes, scholarships are available for Part-Time MBA students. All applicants are considered for 15% merit-based scholarships and a limited number of 50% merit-based scholarships. U.S. military members/veterans and employees of corporate partners are automatically eligible for a 15% tuition discount. Scholarships and discounts are not stackable.

Learn more about scholarship opportunities.

Tuition is charged at a single rate of $1,797 per credit hour. Since the degree requires 52 credits, the total tuition cost is approximately $93,444, which is subject to change and does not include University fees, books or course materials.

Curriculum

The program is 52 total credits, split between required core courses (covering accounting, finance, marketing, strategy, etc.) and elective courses. Students must complete a Global Experience, which can be satisfied via on-campus, online or with study abroad experience.

Yes. Students choose from nearly 100 electives and can pursue a general MBA or specialize in one of eight areas.

Elective availability varies by term and format (evening, Saturday, online). Dual-degree programs are not available..

There is a required International Experience (study abroad or globally-focused coursework) and other experiential, project-based courses are available.

Experiential options include short-term Global Enrichment programs and project-based courses.

Highly flexible. Classes are held evenings (Mon-Thu, 5:45–9:05 p.m.), on Saturdays (morning/afternoon), and online. Students can complete the degree in the modality that works best for them, and mix and match modalities they see fit. For example, students can take a mix of in-person and online courses and can adjust their course load each term.

Yes. You can increase or decrease your load based on work and life demands. Connect with an academic advisor if you are needing to take a break for a semester or if you need longer leave of absence from the program.

The curriculum covers core business disciplines (accounting, finance, marketing, strategy, etc.) and offers nearly 100 electives across 15 specializations. You complete 52 total credits, including an international experience through study abroad or globally-focused coursework.

Yes. Part-Time MBA students have multiple experiential options, including short-term Global Enrichment programs, term-length Global Immersions, and project-based courses. The formal Enterprise Programs are not a standard component of the Part-Time MBA curriculum.

Yes. You can mix evening, Saturday and online courses within the Part-Time MBA. It is possible to complete the program using online and Saturday courses only, subject to elective availability. All courses are offered through the University of Minnesota Twin Cities.

The Part-Time MBA curriculum combines required core courses with electives. Choose from nearly 100 elective courses and study abroad opportunities to customize the degree for your career goals. You may also choose from one of eight degree specializations in core business domains like finance, management, and marketing, as well as newer areas like ESG or artificial intelligence and analytics for business.

No. Dual Degree programs are currently available only for the Full-Time MBA.

Community & Careers

A large community of over 1,000 experienced professionals. Students come from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, with an average of 3.5 years of completion time.

Yes. Students can join dedicated Part-Time MBA clubs (e.g., Part-Time MBA Student Leadership Council) and are welcome to participate in Carlson School community events.

Full access to Carlson’s graduate career services, including one-on-one coaching, resume/interview support, career workshops, and networking events, all tailored for the working professional.

Graduates secure roles such as consultant, product manager, finance associate and program manager. Within four months post-graduation, 52% of graduates reported a significant job change, and 39% reported a promotion.

Highly accessible. The program partners with employers for networking receptions and case competitions, leveraging its proximity to Fortune 500 headquarters. Students connect with a large, collaborative community of over 1,000 current students and the extensive alumni network.

A collaborative, welcoming, and supportive environment built around the schedules of working professionals. The flexible format allows students to balance work, life, and study, with faculty offering flexibility for professional travel.

Part-Time MBA students have access to Carlson’s graduate career services, including one-on-one coaching, resume/interview support, career workshops, networking events and corporate receptions. All services are designed with the working professional in mind.

Yes. According to the most recent employment report, 52% of graduates reported a significant job change within four months, and 39% changed level or were promoted. The Class of 2024 reported an average salary increase of 62% from program start to post-graduation.

Part-Time MBA students can participate in many of the same career events as other Carlson graduate students, including company presentations and networking. It's recommended to consult directly with a Carlson career coach to access specific recruiting processes or target firms.

Carlson partners with employers through company site visits, on-campus information sessions, networking receptions, case competitions and alumni connections. The school’s proximity to many Fortune 500 headquarters facilitates employer engagement and recruiting.

Graduates from the Part-Time MBA program secure roles across various industries. Common titles include consultant, assistant marketing manager, product manager, finance associate, program manager and general manager.

Student Life

Yes. Part-Time MBA students can join dedicated clubs (e.g., Part-Time MBA Student Leadership Council, Carlson Women’s Network) along with other Carlson graduate student organizations. These groups offer networking, leadership roles and events that fit a working professional’s schedule.

The program is built for balance: classes are scheduled in the evenings, on Saturdays, and online, and you choose your course load each term. You can speed up or slow down your pace within the 2.5- to 7-year completion window, and faculty are flexible with students who travel.

Yes. The Part-Time MBA community includes more than 1,000 experienced professionals who study together, join clubs and connect at networking events. The culture is collaborative, welcoming and supportive, fostering close, long-term professional connections.

Yes. Many clubs, activities, and some evening classes are shared, allowing Part-Time students to learn together with Full-Time and Online MBA students. You will share classrooms, events, and the broader graduate business community with students from all formats.