Full-time MBA programs are geared toward recent university graduates or professionals looking to change career paths and are usually completed in one or two years. Many full-time, two-year programs require students to finish at least one professional internship during the summer between the first and second year of study. Internships allow students to acquire valuable business contacts, assisting them in procuring employment upon graduation. Students with extensive business experience could complete a one-year program.
Many business professionals will earn an MBA part time to assist them in qualifying for promotions or because an employer is financing their education as a tool for professional development. In addition, some employers will fully finance an MBA program to attract new employees or retain valuable members of their team. A part-time MBA is an affordable option because tuition costs are spread out over several years -- allowing students to finance their education without going into debt.
An executive MBA program is designed for students with significant business experience and established careers whom are looking to develop their knowledge and expertise. The curriculum places more emphasis on group learning because EMBA students benefit from sharing their specific work experience with each other. Classes are generally held on evenings and weekends to accommodate the schedules of students. Similar to a part-time MBA, many employers will finance EMBAs to assist employees ascertain jobs at the senior management or executive levels.
Many business schools around the world offer online MBA degrees. These programs are generally designed at an accelerated pace, usually taking less than two years to complete. Therefore, students must possess a strong work ethic and have effective time management skills.