Part-Time MBA or Online MBA: Which is Right for Me?

2. What's your learning style?

Online MBA programs offer a more individualized and self-paced approach. You’ll also be able to review materials at your convenience. With our increasingly virtual world, you have the added benefit of incorporating technology into your leadership and communication skills.

Part-time MBA programs may provide more structure and accountability, especially in-person classes where you’ll be required to follow set class schedules. However, you will be able to get answers in real time and interact with faculty and peers.

3. How important is networking to you?

Part-time and online MBA programs often offer more diverse networks as their students tend to have more work experience and come from a greater variety of backgrounds and locations.

Part-time MBA programs offer more built-in networking opportunities due to in-person course options. On-campus career fairs and events may also be more readily available if you live in the area. However, this doesn’t mean online MBAs don’t provide any networking opportunities. Team projects are often still required, and many programs have in-person residency requirements. For example, Minnesota Carlson requires two in-person residencies for our online MBA students. During these experiences, we build in networking opportunities and workshops so you can take full advantage of your time on campus. 

If one of your goals is to expand your network during the program, you may need to be more intentional about making connections with others if you choose an online MBA program.

What Are the Advantages of Part‑Time vs. Online MBA Programs?

While the delivery methods differ, both formats share a core advantage: they allow you to advance your education without pressing pause on your career. Here are four key benefits you can expect from either path.

Achieve your next career goal

Whether you choose a part-time MBA program or an online MBA program, you’ll be developing the skills and knowledge needed to accelerate or pivot your career. You have the advantage of practicing and applying what you learn to the workplace immediately. Enhancing your strategic thinking, leadership, and communication skills can lead to a promotion within your current organization. The opportunity to explore topics that interest you, from marketing to finance, can also help you pivot into a new function or even industry. And if you’re looking for a salary boost, median starting salaries are on the rise for MBA degree holders, according to the Graduate Management Admission Council’s 2025 Corporate Recruiters Survey.

Want to see some real stats in action? 52% of Minnesota Carlson’s working professional (part-time and online) MBA Class of 2024 reported a significant job change (industry or function) during or post-program. They also saw a 62% average increase in salary from program start to four months post-graduation, and an average base salary of $139,409 for Part-Time MBA and $114,112 for Online MBA.

Check out our Part-time MBA and Online MBA Class of 2024 employment reports to explore where you could end up.

More affordable way to earn your degree

In part-time and online MBA programs, you can keep earning an income while studying. Because you'll be taking classes courses or if you already live close by and take in-person courses, you may not have relocation costs. You’ll also likely only need to pay for the credits you’re taking. This means you can pace your coursework to fit your budget from semester to semester.

Remember to look into your employee benefits. Some organizations may offer time off and/or financial sponsorship to help you develop professionally. Some programs, like Minnesota Carlson’s, also have Corporate Partnerships to streamline the application process and offer discount tuition. Get tips on asking your employer for educational support or learn more about Carlson's Corporate Partnership.

You can also ask your program of interest if they offer scholarships for their part-time and online MBA programs. To be considered for a Carlson merit-based scholarship, all you need to do is complete the scholarship essay as part of your Part-Time or Online MBA application. Scholarships are awarded at the time of admission.

Learn more about Minnesota Carlson's Part-Time MBA scholarships and Online MBA scholarships.

Take control of your education and time

There’s a good reason part-time and online MBA programs are also called evening MBAs, weekend MBAs, or working professional MBAs. Designed for the working professional, it reflects the program’s flexibility in scheduling, course delivery, and curriculum. From various scheduling options like night and weekend classes, you’ll also be able to choose how you want to learn with formats like online synchronous, online asynchronous, and in-person for part-time programs.

Minnesota Carlson offers various course modalities, including condensed formats for some two-credit courses that will allow you to complete the class over a few weeks or even days. Our Online MBA program also gives you access to in-person classes should you ever want them. In short, part-time and online MBA programs let you determine the how and when of your education.

You can even pursue specializations and your interests better. For example, the Carlson part-time and online MBA programs require 52 credits to graduate. But you decide when to complete your core and elective courses. If there’s a class you really want to take, but can’t fit it into your schedule this year, you can simply take it next year.

Career development support

Whichever program you choose, you’ll be able to create connections through your school’s alumni network. With many services moving online, you’ll likely have access to your school’s career center to help you plan out and achieve your next career moves.

For example, Carlson offers unparalleled and uniquely comprehensive career support through our Carlson Business Career Center. You can receive individualized career guidance every step of the way—whether you need support navigating a job transition or want to plan out your career path. As a Part-Time MBA or Online MBA student, you can meet with your dedicated career coach for strategies and evaluations. And with an alumni network of 60,000+ in 102 countries around the world, you’ll have an extensive community to give you the pulse on the latest industry trends and job opportunities.
 

Advance Your Career with a Flexible MBA from Minnesota Carlson

Ready to advance your career on your terms? The University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management offers both Part-Time and Online MBA programs designed for working professionals who want flexibility without compromising quality. With access to world-class faculty, an expansive alumni network, and the Carlson Business Career Center’s dedicated career support, you’ll gain the skills, connections, and confidence to achieve your goals. Schedule a 1-on-1 appointment to explore which program is right for you, or start your online application today.