Part-Time Versus Executive MBA Degrees: Which is right for you?

Are you overwhelmed by options that are available when it comes to choosing an MBA degree program? Consider if a part-time MBA or an executive MBA degree is the best fit for you.

by Jami J. Rodgers
jami.rodgers@MBA-Business-Schools.com
MBA-Business-Schools.com Columnist

Part-Time MBA Programs: The Solution for the Full-Time Professional

You don’t need to sacrifice your hard-earned reputation or throw your on-the-job experience out the window if you decide to pursue an MBA degree. With a part-time MBA program, you set the pace for your progress while keeping your current position. Many part-time MBA programs feature:

• Flexible Completion. Most programs can be completed in as little as two years, or as many as five years.
• Convenient Scheduling. Choose from evening and weekend classes to accommodate your busy day-to-day schedule. Most MBA programs will allow you to maintain a manageable work-life balance with convenient scheduling options.
• Individualized Degrees. Most part-time MBA programs include a core set of competencies that provide basic business and analytical skills as the foundation for your degree. You can then tailor your business studies as they relate to anything from environmental policy, to hotel/restaurant management, to international business.

Executive MBA Programs: Your Key to a Competitive Advantage

As a member of today’s executive-level management, you may have ascended the corporate ladder and gained invaluable experience by working your way to the top. If this case, you may want to distinguish yourself from your colleagues and pursue an executive MBA degree. Programs are designed so you don’t need to forfeit holding the reigns of your organization. You can gain a competitive advantage and business insight an MBA alone provides. Features of most executive MBA programs include:

• Flexible Admission Requirements. Typically, if you have five or more years under your belt in an executive position, most executive MBA programs waive the GMAT requirement for admission.
• Accelerated Completion. Most executive MBA programs realize you will be balancing corporate responsibilities with your coursework. You’ll most likely attend classes in a cohort, usually over 18 to 24 months, to complete your MBA degree.
• Structured Coursework. Given the nature of these MBA programs, you will most likely complete courses in a set progression. This provides you with a general business framework, and eliminates the need for you to specify a specialized focus.

Regardless of which format you choose, most institutions confer the same MBA degree standing. Compare your various options and pick an MBA program that works best for you.

Source

Graduate Management Admission Council

About the Author

Jami J. Rodgers—who is currently pursuing MBA school admission— works in acquisition management for the federal sector in Washington, D.C. Jami holds a B.S. in Spanish with a business option and an international studies minor from The Pennsylvania State University.

Posted on November 17, 2006 at 4:26 PM

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