How Many Years Does It Take to Earn an MBA?

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree program can help you build the knowledge and skills you need for a wide range of business careers, from healthcare management to human resource management. Business professionals around the world have earned a business administration master’s while working full time—and you can, too. But how long does it take to get an MBA? The answer depends on the degree program and your individual circumstances. As you investigate some of the top MBA programs, look to see what options those schools offer.

What Is an MBA?

An MBA is a graduate-level degree that provides students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in business. MBA programs typically cover a wide range of topics, including finance, marketing, leadership, business strategy, and more. Graduates of MBA programs work in a variety of industries, including consulting, finance, healthcare, and technology.

Types of MBAs

There are several different types of MBA programs available, each with its own unique set of requirements and time commitment. Some of the most common types of MBA programs include:

• Traditional MBA. A traditional MBA program is usually a full-time, two-year program that typically requires students to complete 60 credit hours of coursework. Traditional MBA programs are designed for students who have a strong undergraduate education in business or a related field. Traditional MBAs are usually on campus and in person.
• Online MBA. An online MBA program is a more flexible option for earning your master’s degree in business. It is generally a part-time program designed for working adults. Students can choose their start date, work from wherever is most convenient, and set a study schedule that’s right for them. Walden University’s MBA program is offered in a course-based format and Tempo Learning® competency-based format.
  • Course-based MBA programs are instructor-led and are a great option for those who work best with a preset schedule. Walden’s course-based MBA requires 50 credits of coursework to be completed and can be finished in a few as 15 months.
  • A competency-based MBA program allows students to set their own learning pace. Competency-based MBA programs are ideal for those who are self-motivated and have strong time management skills. Walden University’s competency-based MBA can be completed in as few as 11 months.
• Dual degree. A dual degree MBA program is a program that allows students to earn two degrees, such as an MBA and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), in a shorter amount of time than it would take to earn each degree separately. Dual degree MBA programs are designed for students who want to pursue a career in business and another field, such as healthcare administration or nursing.

Factors That Affect the Length of Your MBA Degree Program

• Full-time vs. part-time enrollment. You’ll need to consider work, family, and other factors when deciding how many semester credits your schedule will allow. One 3-credit class typically requires 15 to 18 hours of coursework per week. Many graduate schools consider 9 credits per semester a full-time load. A standard MBA program generally takes at least two years to complete with full-time enrollment, and closer to three years on a part-time schedule.
• On-campus vs. online MBA programs. Taking courses on a college campus may work better for students who need more structure and accountability. However, because on-campus courses meet at fixed times, they offer little flexibility for working professionals trying to earn their business degree. This is where online MBA programs shine. The flexible nature of online degrees allows you to access course materials and complete assignments when it’s most convenient for you—within the allotted time frames, of course. With added flexibility and no commute times, the online format gives you greater freedom to pursue a degree and meet your professional and personal commitments.
• Standard vs. fast-track MBA programs. Some universities offer a one-year fast-track program that allows you to earn your MBA in as little as 12 months. In these programs, semesters are condensed into eight-week terms. While the pace can be too rigorous for some, others who have the time to commit find it to be a great option.
• Postgraduate transfer credits. Your MBA program may allow you to transfer in a certain number of graduate-level credits. Depending on the number of eligible transfer credits allowed, you could potentially reduce your program’s length.
• Admissions test. Some universities allow you to apply to an online MBA program without submitting a Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) score. Although this wouldn’t affect the length of your graduate program, it would save you time on the front end.

Why Choose Walden for Your MBA?

For a Master of Business Administration program that fits into your busy life, consider Walden University. Walden’s MBA online program offers a number of options to suit your learning preferences and lifestyle. In addition to its MBA degree General Program, Walden offers specializations in Human Resource Management and Healthcare Management. You can even design your own specialization, tailoring the program to fit your professional goals. Walden doesn’t require the GMAT, and may accept up to 15 transfer credits. 

Walden University offers a fully online MBA program. Expand your career options and earn your degree in a convenient, flexible online learning environment.

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, www.hlcommission.org.