Full And Part Time MBA

Posted: 1/15/2007 by Staff

There are many types of MBA programs available, especially since the online and distance learning programs have become so popular. Both full and part time programs are offered by many of the bricks and mortar institutions, while online and distance learning programs are by their very nature part time programs.

There are advantages to both types of programs. For example, for the student who has determined to go after the graduate degree full time, there are fewer scheduling conflicts between work and schooling. The student can devote their entire time to focusing on the courses, projects and homework which will enable them to complete the work in the least elapsed time. The trade off for the full-time student is, of course the financial burden. A good MBA program is expensive. If there is no other income source, the student may be forced to rely on grants, parental generosity or loans in order to complete the coursework. This can leave the graduate with a shiny MBA and a great deal of debt.

For the part time MBA, the elapsed time is much longer in order to gain the degree. There is also the option of being able to continue a job or career while studying which reduces the financial impact upon graduation. In other words, the education does not have to be totally financed, but part or all of the living expenses are earned during the course of the matriculation. The part-time MBA student also will have to juggle responsibilities of job, family and studies at least in the short term.