The MBA has evolved much since its inception in the early 1900s and within the past 20 years. Full-time MBA programs were offered by educational institutions; however, during the past few years, part-time MBA courses, international programs and distance-learning programs, including online MBA programs, have become available.
Each educational institution has its own criteria for admission. According to the MBA Grid website, the average age of students applying to the program is generally between 26 and 30 years old, along with four to five years of working experience. A score of 600 or more on the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), the MBA entrance exam, is also essential for admission into the more prestigious MBA programs.
The MBA program is not limited to individuals in the area of business. Individuals can pursue a master of business administration degree and a law degree simultaneously. This is known as a joint master in business administration and juris doctor degree (MBA-JD) program.