If you are planning to earn an advance degree, it is important to research the different types of MBA degrees that you can earn. A Master of Business Administration is an advanced business degree that is designed to make you a master in business. You will learn about many different core areas of business and how to apply the skills you have learned to the real world situations in real life environments. The entire purpose of attending a business school to earn your MBA is to advance your career and compete for upper-level and executive level positions where an advanced degree is a requirement. While there is a general MBA degree program, there are different types of programs to fit different lifestyles. Here are some of the more popular types of MBA degree programs that you can enroll in:
The Traditional Full-Time MBA and Its Alternative
The traditional MBA program lasts two years in length. These programs require that students are enrolled in a cohort designed program full-time. All of the students that start the program together will end the program together, making it a great environment to build relationships and networks as you learn. While the traditional program was once the most popular choice, more and more students who have families or full-time jobs are choosing alternative programs with more flexible scheduling options. One of the most flexible types of MBA programs is the Distance Learning MBA program, where students complete all coursework online in a virtual classroom.
Earning an MBA in Half the Time
Another alternative for students who want to earn their degree in half of the time is to take an Accelerated MBA Program. While the duration of Accelerated MBA programs can vary, most are designed to be completed in 12 months. You will study topics at an intense pace, making it a great option if you are not easily overwhelmed. Interest in one-year MBA programs is on the rise, and admissions to these special programs are up almost 25%, according to Fortune. If you want to keep the cost of attending school down and put your degree on your resume quicker, this may be the best option.
Professional and Executive MBA Programs
If you are a working professional and you would like to study on a part-time basis, you can choose between the Professional or the Executive MBA program. A Professional MBA, otherwise known as part-time program, is specially designed so that students can study on week nights and on the weekends. The Executive MBA program has a more serious experience requirement but no GMAT requirement. These programs are held on rotating weekends, because the program understands the stress an executive will deal with during the work week. Both of these programs require a longer commitment, but you can complete work on your schedule.
Related Resource: Financing an MBA Degree
Once you decide on the type of MBA program that you would like to earn, the next step will be to select a specialization. Specializations are available in many different core areas of business. From Healthcare Management and Marketing to IT Management and Communication, there are concentrations that will give you leverage. Consider your future career goals and your current professional and familial obligations, and only after doing this can you choose one of the different types of MBA degrees.