How long does it take to get an MBA?

If you’re considering pursuing an MBA, your options for MBA programs are numerous: full-time, online, part-time, in-person, accelerated, 4+1, dual degree, international, executive… 

So, it may take time to choose the best path for you. As you evaluate each option, you’re also likely to wonder: How long does it take to get an MBA? 

The quick answer: one to five years.

Of course, if you want to know exactly how long it will take you to get an MBA, you’ll need information specifically for the type of MBA program to which you intend to apply. 

This blog post will be your guide. Here’s what you’ll learn: 

  • How long it usually takes to get an MBA depending on the program 

  • Why you may or may not think getting an MBA is hard 

  • How much it matters where you get your MBA 

  • Whether or not it’s still worth it to get an MBA 

Let’s begin. 

 
 

How long does it usually take to get an MBA?

The shortest MBA programs take 12 months. The longest MBA programs take 5 years. What’s the difference between these programs? How are the programs structured? What characteristics define the typical student for each type? 

Good questions! 

Below, you’ll find everything you need to know. 

Program TypeHow long it usually takes to completeTypical course structure & Required creditsTypical student characteristics
Full-Time MBA2 yearsFull-time class schedule; 36-60 creditsWorking professionals who can take time away from work to pursue an MBA
Part-Time MBA3-5 yearsNight and weekend classes; 36-60 creditsWorking professionals balancing careers and studies
Accelerated MBA1-1.5 yearsFull-time class schedule; 30-45 creditsExperienced professionals who want to complete an MBA as quickly as possible before returning to work
Executive MBA2 yearsNight and weekend classes; 36-60 creditsExperienced professionals who seek advanced degrees while maintaining their careers
International MBA2 yearsFull-time class schedule; 36-60 creditsWorking professionals who can take time away from work to pursue an MBA and have a global perspective
4+1 MBA5 yearsFull-time class schedule; 30-40 creditsUndergraduate students aspiring to seamlessly transition from their bachelor's degree to advanced studies, gaining both academic depth and professional skills
Grad Dual Degree MBA2-3 yearsFull-time class schedule; 45-80 creditsGraduate students pursuing two degrees simultaneously to enhance their professional opportunities

Full-Time MBA programs

Full-time, in-person

Full-time, in-person MBA programs offer students an immersive experience, cultivating collaboration and networking. 

Participants engage in rigorous coursework, contribute to group projects, and attend on-campus events throughout the two-year study period.

Example program: MBA - Harvard Business School 

Full-time, online

Full-time online MBA programs provide flexibility without compromising quality. Students access lectures, collaborate on virtual projects, and engage in discussions through digital platforms. 

These programs typically span two years, maintaining the same academic rigor as their in-person counterparts.

Example program: Online MBA | Michigan Ross 

Part-Time MBA programs

Part-time, in-person

Part-time, in-person MBA programs offer a flexible path for working professionals to navigate their career commitments while actively engaging in coursework and collaborative projects. 

This format allows for a completion timeline of 3-5 years, ensuring a balanced approach that accommodates professional responsibilities.

Example program: Part-time MBA - NYU Stern 

Part-time, online 

In the online format, flexibility remains paramount. Professionals can seamlessly integrate their careers and studies through virtual lectures, collaborative online projects, and engaging discussions. 

The completion timeline typically spans 3-5 years, blending the convenience of online learning with the depth of a comprehensive MBA program.

Example program: Part-Time Online MBA Program | Clemson University 

Accelerated MBA programs

Accelerated MBA programs compress the traditional timeline, offering an intense curriculum typically completed in 12-18 months. 

Students immerse themselves in a fast-paced learning environment, emphasizing efficiency without sacrificing quality. 

Expectations include full-time dedication to studies, making it ideal for individuals seeking a quick path to a Master’s of Business Administration degree while managing time effectively.
Example program: One-Year MBA Program | Kellogg Accelerated MBA

Executive MBA programs

Executive MBA programs cater to seasoned professionals, providing an advanced curriculum completed in 18-24 months. 

The curriculum emphasizes leadership and strategic decision-making for students with extensive working experience. 

Expectations include active participation, balancing work commitments, and leveraging existing professional expertise for an enriched learning experience.

Example program: MIT Executive MBA Program

International MBA programs

International MBA programs focus on cultivating a global perspective, typically spanning 2 years. 

Geared toward individuals with an international mindset, the curriculum for International MBA programs include diverse cultural insights and a range of global business topics. 

Expectations include a commitment to broadening perspectives, participating in cross-cultural collaboration, and developing a nuanced understanding of international business dynamics.
Example program: International MBA - Darla Moore School of Business | University of South Carolina

4+1 MBA programs

4+1 MBA programs seamlessly integrate undergraduate and MBA studies, allowing students to earn both degrees in five years. 

This accelerated path provides a streamlined transition, emphasizing a continuous academic journey. 

Expectations include maintaining a rigorous academic schedule, fulfilling all MBA application requirements by the undergraduate student’s junior year (including the GMAT or GRE), and beginning graduate-level MBA courses in the undergraduate student’s senior year.
Example program: IEM + MBA | Oklahoma State University

Grad dual degree MBA

Grad dual degree MBA programs offer students the opportunity to pursue two advanced degrees concurrently, typically completing the program in 2-3 years. 

This multidisciplinary approach allows participants to develop a comprehensive skill set across distinct disciplines.

Expectations include a commitment to excellence in both fields of study, showcasing the ability to synthesize and apply knowledge across diverse domains.
Example program: JD/MBA | Dual-Degree Program | Cornell Johnson

Is getting an MBA hard?

Yes, getting an MBA can be hard. But this will vary from student to student. How hard will it be for you? That depends on your background, time management skills, level of commitment, and financial situation.

Some things to consider before starting an MBA program:

  • Academic Background. The difficulty of an MBA program may vary based on your educational background. You might find certain aspects more manageable if you have a strong foundation in business or related fields.

  • Workload Management. Balancing coursework, projects, and potentially a job requires effective time management. Consider your current professional and personal commitments to gauge how well you can handle the workload.

  • Prioritization Skills. MBA programs often demand prioritization skills to navigate diverse subjects and activities. Assess your ability to prioritize tasks and stay organized throughout the program.

  • Financial Commitment. Pursuing an MBA involves significant costs, including tuition, books, and potentially living expenses if attending a full-time program. Assess your financial situation and explore scholarship options to ease the burden.

  • Work-Life Balance. Full-time MBA programs are intensive, potentially limiting your ability to work. Evaluate whether you can afford the temporary break from employment and if your financial situation can support this decision. An MBA will usually pay for itself in the long term, but you can read more about the possible return on your investment in an MBA here.

Does it matter where you get your MBA?

Yes, to some degree, it does matter where you get your MBA. For example, some employers prefer to recruit exclusively from top-ranked MBA programs, such as the M7 or T20 business schools.

Why do employers hold this preference? Well, elite MBA programs often have strong networks, renowned faculty, and rigorous curricula that groom graduates with in-depth business knowledge and leadership skills. This gives employers confidence in the caliber of talent they’re hiring.

However, that doesn’t mean you should rely solely on rankings to determine where you get your degree. While prestigious institutions can open doors, the value of an MBA extends beyond rankings. 

The fit between the program's offerings and your career goals, the strength of the alumni network, and the resources available can play crucial roles in your overall experience and success.

That last point is especially true if your reason for pursuing an MBA is that you plan to start your own business. In this case, you're likely to learn the necessary business skills for success from a program that emphasizes entrepreneurship, innovation, and practical application of knowledge, regardless of its ranking. 

So consider factors beyond the rankings to ensure the program aligns with your aspirations and provides the support you need to thrive.

Is it worth it to get an MBA?

Getting an MBA can be a wise investment, but determining the worth of an MBA hinges on a variety of factors unique to each individual. We recommend considering the return on investment (ROI), both in terms of career advancement and financial gains. 

How do you do that?

  1. Research the average salary increase or career trajectory for MBA graduates in your field. According to The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC)  2023 Corporate Recruiters Survey, the estimated median starting salary for MBA graduates is $125,000. 

  2. However, that number may vary depending on the field you choose to enter. Check out this MBA ROI calculator to get a more personalized estimate. 

  3. Assess the costs, including tuition, potential lost wages during the program, and any loans taken. This financial evaluation is crucial in understanding the total investment and managing expectations for your post-MBA period. Prices vary, but top-tier MBA programs can cost $200,000+. 

  4. Weigh intangible benefits of getting an MBA, such as expanded professional networks, skill enhancement, and personal growth. 

    If entrepreneurship is your goal, look for programs emphasizing innovation and practical business application.  Alternatively, if you aim to climb the corporate ladder, a prestigious program can be a game-changer, opening doors to a robust alumni network and strategic opportunities.

  5. Research each program thoroughly. While doing so, remember the true worth of an MBA usually extends beyond immediate returns, shaping a trajectory that can lead to long-term success and fulfillment.

Final Thoughts

Key Takeaways:

How long it takes to get an MBA varies based on the type of program you choose, from the immersive experience of full-time programs to the flexibility of part-time or online options.

Because of that, and because of the costs of MBA programs, be sure to assess programs you’re potentially interested in to be sure the MBA programs you apply to fit with your goals.

We hope this blog post has helped you understand the time commitments and benefits of each program type so you can make an informed decision aligned with your professional goals and lifestyle.

If you're looking for additional resources to help you with your MBA applications, we recommend speaking with our graduate school admissions consultants. We can help you craft a strong personal statement and navigate the MBA application process.

So, why wait? Schedule a consultation and begin taking the next step toward getting your MBA!

 

Special thanks to Ameer for writing this blog post

Ameer is a freelance writer who specializes in writing about college admissions and career development. Prior to freelancing, Ameer worked for three years as a college admissions consultant at a Hong Kong-based education center, helping local high school students prepare and apply for top colleges and universities in the US. He has a B.A. in Latin American Studies from the University of Chicago and an M.A. in Spanish Linguistics from UCLA. When he’s not working, Ameer loves traveling, weight lifting, writing, reading, and learning foreign languages. He currently lives in Bangkok, Thailand.

 

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