What Are the Different Types of MBA Programs?
Friday, February 11, 2022
Carlson School Graduate Programs
Find Your Master's DegreeResources for Prospective Graduate StudentsDeciding to invest in yourself by pursuing an MBA is a big decision. The next important question to ask yourself is what format is best for you? Each MBA program can shape a prospective student’s experience, so how do you decide between Full-Time, Part-Time, Online, or an Executive MBA?
Read on to find out which MBA program is right for you.
Full-Time MBA
A Full-Time MBA is a fully immersive two-year program for professionals interested in building business skills or changing careers. The program has a traditional-format approach, with classes held throughout the day and week. Full-Time MBA programs offer the opportunity to complete a summer internship and are ideal for those looking for a career pivot to a new industry or role.
Part-Time MBA
A Part-Time MBA program is designed for the working professional and those who have, on average, six years of professional experience after completing their bachelor's degree. The flexibility of the program allows students to accommodate work and life obligations. Unlike the Full-Time MBA’s traditional-format approach, a Part-Time MBA allows for both in-person and online (synchronous) learning.
Online MBA
Similar to a Part-Time MBA in terms of flexibility, an Online MBA allows you to earn your degree at your own pace in an asynchronous format. Online MBA students are typically working professionals seeking career advancement and choose the program for its maximum flexibility in course delivery.
Executive MBA
The biggest difference between an Executive MBA and the other MBA formats is work and leadership experience. An Executive MBA is tailored for seasoned professionals with at least 8-10 years of experience seeking accelerated career growth. Executive MBA classes are held on Fridays and Saturdays, with a synchronous class streaming option for students who can't make it to campus.
No matter which format you choose, a Carlson School MBA will broaden your skill set, expand your network, increase your earning potential, and help you advance both personally and professionally.
| Full-Time MBA |
|---|
| Average 5 years of work experience. Minimum of 2 years of work experience. |
| 2-year program, 4 academic semesters. On-campus classes during Fall & Spring semesters, Summer off. |
| Class Schedule: Core Courses: Mon-Thu & Elective Courses: Weekdays, Evening, Online, and Weekends |
| 64 Total Credits (28 core credits) |
| Executive MBA |
|---|
| Average 15 years of work experience. Minimum of 6 years of work experience (must have MGMT experience). |
| 2-year program, 4 academic semesters. |
| Class Schedule: 7:30a - 4:30p, Friday & Saturday classes on alternating weekends (Fall & Spring semesters only, Summer semesters off) - Hyflex also offered |
| 52.5 Total Credits (core & advanced courses) |
| Part-Time MBA |
|---|
| Average 6 years of work experience. Minimum of 2 years of work experience. |
| Flexible 2-7 yr timeline (typically 3½ yrs) |
| Class Schedule: Mon-Thu evening and online classes & Fri-Sat condensed format |
| 52 Total Credits (33 core credits) |
| Online MBA |
|---|
| Average 10 years of work experience. Minimum of 2 years of work experience. |
| Flexible 2-7 yr timeline (typically 2 yrs) |
| Class Schedule: Online courses with two in-person residencies |
| 52 Total Credits (30 core credits) |