Part-Time MBA Programs – Info and Requirements

Part-Time MBA programs allow working professionals to advance their careers while pursuing an MBA at one of the top business schools in the world. Such programs are intended for working professionals seeking the advanced business knowledge and network needed to progress within their current field or industry. Students in part-time programs are usually a bit older with more work experience than those in full-time programs.

Part-time MBA programs usually allow the student to earn the degree in 2-6 years and offer a flexible schedule, as classes are held in evenings and weekends. The admission requirements are often similar to those in full-time programs.

Many top business schools offer a part-time option and EMBA option, in addition to the full-time option. While full-time MBA degree is the preferred method of study for most people considering a business education, a part-time MBA can often be much more convenient.

After all, the commitment of leaving a job that you might like, and even leaving the region or the country that you are in may not suit everyone, particularly those with family, friends and roots in a region.

A 2011 AACSB survey found that while 44% of MBA students were attending full-time, 56% were enrolled in part-time MBA programs. The best business schools offer part-time MBA courses that are every bit as academically rigorous as their full-time cousins. The MBA degree is the same, you will still have the letters and the prestige of the school name associated with you, you will still learn an enormous amount of information and learn to juggle the hardship of an MBA as well as full-time work and personal life.

There are a large number of people whom, for one reason or another, are unwilling or unable to pay out the fees in advance of a full-time MBA course. For those, remaining in the workplace is the only viable option. A part-time MBA is a good way to lessen the cost of a quality MBA degree—by going part-time while keeping your day job. And if your employer is willing to pay for some or all of the cost of your tuition, you may end up with the best possible outcome—no student debt at all.

Nowadays the best business schools are offering very well-organized part-time MBA courses which provide alumni with the same qualification as a full-time MBA degree and taught by the same faculty. For the part-timer the networking opportunities are trickier, although students do still get to meet, chat, talk business and form lasting friendships. However, it’s obvious that these opportunities are going to prove more problematic in establishing networks than they would be on a full-time program.