How long does it take to get an MBA?
Wondering how long it takes to get an MBA?
There are many different MBA programs to choose from these days.
If you are considering returning to school for your master’s, you must first consider your ultimate career goals and choose a program that will help you obtain them.
A main consideration for many students for choosing a program is:
How long does it take to get an MBA?
The answer is not a simple one, however. It will depend on if you choose to attend classes the traditional way, on campus, or if you decide to go with an online MBA program.
On-Campus vs. Online MBA Programs
On-Campus MBA Programs
On campus programs are generally very structured. Classes are held at a specific time and place. In addition, there are usually only four quarters or two semesters each academic year.
This means that you can only take a specific number of classes each year. If a required class is only offered once a year, you could find yourself waiting for it to come around again. This causes traditional, on-campus MBA programs to take two or three years to complete.
Online MBA Programs
If you are wanting to earn your MBA in an even shorter amount of time, you may want to consider an online program.
When it comes to online degrees, the time required varies by university, but you can assume that it will take you from 11 months to 24 months to complete.
Not only are the Online MBA program lengths shorter, but you are no longer tied to a geographic area for your studies. Universities such as Northwestern and Purdue now offer online MBA programs. You can even attend the University of Oxford in England from the comfort of your home in the United States.
Compare Online MBA Degrees:
- Accelerated Online MBA Degrees
- Online MBA Degrees – General
- Online MBA Degrees – Accounting
- Online MBA Degrees – Human Resources
- Online MBA Degrees – Management
- Online MBA Degrees – Marketing
- Online MBA Degrees – Finance
- Online MBA Degrees – Healthcare Administration
- Online MBA Degrees – International Business
- Online MBA Degrees – Public Health
- Online MBA Degrees – Entrepreneurship
- Online MBA Degrees – Project Management
- Online MBA Degrees – Sports Management
Accelerated MBA Programs
In addition to on-campus MBA programs and online MBA programs, there are also accelerated MBA programs that can allow you to complete your MBA in just one year!
Programs lengths vary from university to university, but most accelerated MBA programs can be completed in 11-16 months. These programs have condensed or shortened quarters. Instead of a 12 week quarter or 16 week semester, these programs offer classes that last from 6 weeks to 8 weeks. This allows you to take more classes throughout the academic year. Not too shabby.
Dual MBA Programs
A number of universities now offer dual MBA degrees online. These are typically designed for students who want to combine their desired master’s curriculum with business courses.
Some common variations include combining an MBA with a Juris Doctor or a master’s of public health, although there are many other options available.
Many students shy away from this route because they fear it will take them twice as long to complete their degree. Actually, that is not the case. A dual MBA is typically completed in about two years, the same amount of time as a traditional, campus-based MBA. It is important to note, though, that classes are fast paced and extremely challenging.
Summary
Getting a masters degree is an important step to enhancing your current career or changing careers. Regardless of your intentions, it is important to keep in mind that it is impossible to advance in certain fields or even be considered for a position without your masters degree.
Ready to explore your options? Compare accredited universities offering MBA programs online: