How Long Does It Take to Get an MBA?

How Long Does It Take to Get an MBA?
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Dr. Jed Macosko
Published:

Key Takeaways

  • An MBA program can take between one to five years to complete.
  • There are a number of different types of MBA programs, each of which have different completion times.
  • Some online and traditional accelerated MBA degree programs can be completed in as little as one year of full-time study.

Even though MBA is such a popular program globally, most prospective students often have this one question in common - How long does it take to get an MBA? Short answer: There’s no specific timeline you need to follow to earn an MBA degree. Today, let’s explore the various ways this one question can be answered.

Man wearing a suit, reading the business section of a newspaper

Featured Programs

How long does it take to get an MBA?

Depending on your program type and schedule, finishing an MBA program can take between one to five years. There are online and on-campus options, and you can go full-time or part-time.

Most MBA programs have 9 to 12 courses in total. Students will probably spend about 7 to 8 hours a week reading, studying, and doing projects for each course. It’s important to this in mind when choosing a program that best suits your educational, professional, and personal needs.

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With so many options available, students often find it challenging to make informed decisions about which MBA program length is best for them.

Before you proceed with the application, consider the following tips to decide which MBA program works best for you and your needs:

Full-Time MBA Programs (2 Years)

If you’re looking for a big career change, a traditional full-time (in-person) MBA degree program is your best bet.

Students that sign up for this program are required to take classes during the day for 2 years in total. In other words, the program doesn’t leave any room for students to maintain a full-time job on the side.

However, being a full-time student also means you can use university resources like internships and networking events to your advantage.

Part-Time MBA Programs (About 3 Years)

A part-time MBA program may be perfect if you want to keep working and still want to get your MBA.

You’ll get the same quality education (resources and faculty) as full-time students. The only difference being you’ll have more flexibility to balance work and life. Remember, it takes three years to finish, so you have to be ready to make that commitment.

Accelerated MBA Programs (12-18 Months)

Accelerated MBA programs are shorter – typically running from the early summer of one year to the following summer.

These types of programs are a great choice for students with a solid professional background or a business degree, and for those who want to fast-track an MBA without compromising quality.

Students gathered on a table looking at a piece of paper

4+1 MBA (5 Years)

Some undergraduate colleges offer a speedy route called the 4+1 MBA. This allows you to start working on your MBA while still finishing your bachelor’s degree – whether in business or another subject.

Usually, students apply in their junior undergraduate year and take the GMAT. Then, during their senior year, they start their business classes. It’s a great way to save time and money in the long run.

Online MBA Programs (18+ Months)

Online MBA programs are perfect for students who can’t or don’t want to leave their jobs to study full-time.

In these programs, you can take between one and four classes each semester, which might mean it takes you longer to finish. However, online MBAs are often cheaper than traditional on-campus ones. This is a great choice for students who are set on getting an MBA and can work remotely and independently.

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Can you finish an MBA in one year?

Absolutely! There are various credible and accelerated MBA programs that students can complete in one year. Believe it or not, one-year MBA programs are becoming more popular as professionals want to develop their skills without taking a break from their careers.

According to a Wall Street Journal report, a strong job market and increasing tuition costs led to the decline in traditional two year MBA program applications, even in top schools. As a result, there’s been a big increase in the number of one-year programs. Although one-year programs are still less common, 47% of prospective students say they will consider a shorter degree.

What factors affect the time it would take to finish an MBA?

Many factors affect the length of time it takes to finish an MBA program. Some depend on the university and program you select, while others are based on your individual learning preferences.

Here are the four factors that may impact the duration of your MBA program:

  • Admission requirements: Before you start the program, consider how long the application process takes. Does the program need entrance exams? How long until they review your application? If you’re transferring credits, how long will it take to decide? These steps can take time.
  • Program format: Whether you study in-person or online can affect how long it takes to finish your MBA. Online programs typically have shorter courses (6 to 8 weeks), while traditional in-person programs follow 15-week schedules. Online classes may also be easier to manage alongside a full-time job, helping you finish your MBA faster.
  • Enrollment status: If you’re a full-time student, you’ll likely have to handle more than one course at once. If you work full-time and do your MBA, you must figure out if you can handle multiple courses along with your other duties. It’s not just about finishing quickly; it’s about making the most of your degree, which can be tough if you have too much on your plate.
  • Additional specializations: You must choose a focus area during your MBA program. These specialized programs need additional courses on top of the main MBA subjects, which could make your MBA take longer. However, the extra time could be valuable if you aim for a particular industry or job.
People seated on a table with their laptops all turned on, while they're listening to a speaker in front of the room

How to know what pace is perfect for me?

You must ask yourself proper questions to determine how long it will take to complete an MBA. There’s no one-size-fits-all MBA program. It’s about finding what works best for you. Some like fast-paced programs, while others prefer a slower pace. As you look into MBA programs, especially if you’re working full-time, consider these questions:

  • Based on the commitments, can you dedicate 7-8 hours weekly to each MBA course?
  • Are you ready to prioritize your MBA studies over other activities?
  • Does your job allow for a flexible schedule to fit in MBA classes?
  • Do you have support from work and home to manage any conflicts?

If you mostly said yes, a one year accelerated MBA would be a good fit. If not, consider a part-time online program where you can take things one course at a time.

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Best MBA Programs of 2024

An MBA is one of the most popular graduate degrees for its return on investment (ROI) and versatility.

With it, you have a higher chance of securing employment after graduation and advancing your career in various fields and sectors. According to one report, almost 90% of students from top business schools receive job opportunities upon graduation.

Here’s a list of top colleges and universities you should consider for an MBA – whether on-campus or online:

  1. #1

    Appalachian State University

    Boone , NC
    #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #7 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #9 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    75%

    Student body

    22K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1185/24

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Appalachian State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,047
    Expenses: $15,252
    Starting Salary: $68,364
    Salary after 4 years: $84,214
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Appalachian’s Walker College of Business provides part-time and full-time on-campus MBA programs and part-time online options. You can specialize in one of eight concentrations they offer, such as business analytics, economics etc. Online MBA programs offer cybersecurity and interdisciplinary business concentrations.

    You can finish the 36-credit program in a year if you’re a full-time student. However, if you choose the online route, you can learn at your own pace or follow a schedule for some classes.

    In-state online students pay $544 per credit, while nonresidents pay $1,194. While a thesis isn’t required, students can choose to do one if they’d like.

    • Graduation rate: 72.2%
    • Program length: 1-2 years
    • Credits: 36 credits
    • Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, 3.0 or higher GPA, five years of work experience
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  2. #2

    Brigham Young University

    Provo , UT
    #6 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #15 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2024 #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Utah 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    67%

    Graduation

    79%

    Student body

    39K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1374/29

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Brigham Young University

    Cost of Degree: $7,932
    Expenses: $14,816
    Starting Salary: $97,559
    Salary after 4 years: $119,479
    Cost Recoup Time: 3 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Offered by Marriott School of Management, Brigham Young University’s MBA program is highly regarded by Businessweek and the Financial Times, and it’s more affordable than many other top-ranked MBA programs.

    This budget-friendly program includes specializations in entrepreneurship, marketing, global supply chain management, and more.

    After graduation, many students land jobs in the local technology and manufacturing sectors. The MBA programs at BYU are accredited by AACSB.

    • Graduation rate: 64.4%
    • Program length: 2 years
    • Credits: 54 credits
    • Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, 3.5 or higher GPA, GRE or GMAT scores
    Compare school
  3. #3

    University of Missouri

    Columbia , MO
    #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Missouri 2024 #1 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2024 #2 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2024 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    75%

    Student body

    34K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1240/26

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Missouri

    Cost of Degree: $11,794
    Expenses: $17,240
    Starting Salary: $88,748
    Salary after 4 years: $109,324
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Columbia may be smaller than nearby St. Louis and Kansas City, but it packs a punch. Forbes magazine even named it one of the best small places in the US for business and careers.

    Trulaske College of Business offers an affordable MBA program that is particularly attractive to international students. It can be a great starting point for starting a career in Columbia and the surrounding areas.

    Besides the standard two-year MBA and Executive MBA (EMBA), the school also has a few dual-degree options, such as MBA/MS in Structural Engineering, MBA/Master of Health Administration, and MBA/JD.

    • Graduation rate: 70.9%
    • Program length: 1.5-2 years
    • Credits: 45 credits
    • Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, 3.3 or higher GPA
    Compare school
  4. #4

    Johns Hopkins University

    Baltimore , MD
    #10 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #11 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024 #12 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #13 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    40K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1545/34

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Johns Hopkins University

    Cost of Degree: $62,962
    Expenses: $20,320
    Starting Salary: $121,846
    Salary after 4 years: $149,224
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Johns Hopkins University’s Carey Business School in Baltimore, Maryland, provides one of the most affordable online MBA programs in the US. It takes two years of part-time study, and you can choose from eight specializations to tailor your degree to your interests.

    Students can join live classes or work through the program at their own pace. They also offer dual degrees where you can pair your MBA with master’s degrees in design leadership, communication, and more.

    You can even do a joint MBA and doctor of nursing practice. The business school is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

    • Graduation rate: 93%
    • Program length: 2 years
    • Credits: 54 credits
    • Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, 3.0 GPA, GRE or GMAT scores
    Compare school
    5. Woman talking on the phone with her laptop on her lap
  6. #5

    North Carolina Wesleyan University

    Rocky Mount , NC
    #16 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina #20 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    38%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at North Carolina Wesleyan University

    Cost of Degree: $12,700
    Expenses: $14,764
    Starting Salary: $57,171
    Salary after 4 years: $70,017
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    North Carolina Wesleyan University in Rocky Mount has a one-of-a-kind online MBA program. You can specialize in executive leadership, supply chain management, or information security. Their MBA programs help explore ethical decision-making, economic theory, and organizational change.

    To get in, students need a bachelor’s degree in business or a similar field, with at least a 2.5 GPA. You must also write a statement about your goals and submit a resume with two references.

    Another great thing about this program is that it doesn’t need a GMAT or GRE.

    • Graduation rate: 61%
    • Program length: 1 year
    • Credits: 33 credits
    • Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, 2.75 GPA
    Compare school
  7. #6

    University of Nevada, Reno

    Reno , NV
    #2 Best Grad Schools in Nevada 2024 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Nevada 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in Nevada 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    23K

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at University of Nevada, Reno

    Cost of Degree: $6,444
    Expenses: $19,888
    Starting Salary: $88,278
    Salary after 4 years: $108,744
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    At the University of Nevada-Reno, students can earn their MBA (EMBA) online by taking 12 courses over two years. The program follows three semesters: Fall, spring, and summer.

    This MBA program is known as one of the best in the country and costs $30,000. To qualify, you need a bachelor’s degree from a recognized four-year college, a GPA of at least 2.75, and five or more years of work experience after undergraduate studies.

    • Graduation rate: 61%
    • Program length: 2 years
    • Credits: 21 credits
    • Admissions requirements: Bachelor’s degree, 2.75 GPA, five years of work experience
    Compare school
  8. #7

    Arkansas State University

    Jonesboro , AR
    #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #3 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in Arkansas 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Arkansas 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    70%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    18K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1090/22

    Career Outlook for MBA degree at Arkansas State University

    Cost of Degree: $6,718
    Expenses: $17,097
    Starting Salary: $57,388
    Salary after 4 years: $70,693
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Arkansas State University offers an online MBA for students with different backgrounds. You can choose to focus on either supply chain management or finance.

    To join, you’ll need to meet certain GPA requirements and submit GMAT or GRE scores. The program costs $610 per credit, with a total tuition of $20,130.

    • Graduation rate: 53%
    • Program length: 2 years
    • Credits: 33 credits
    • Admissions requirements: 2.75 GPA, GMAT or GRE scores
    Compare school

    9. Related Questions

    How much does an MBA degree program cost?

    The average cost for graduate tuition and fees is around $60,000. However, the figure fluctuates significantly based on the program. For instance, some of the highest-ranked business schools demand over $80,000 annually for tuition alone.

    Is an MBA worth it?

    According to the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), the median starting salary for MBA graduates was around $125,000 in 2023 compared to $75,000 for people with bachelor’s degrees. Although an MBA costs more than an average graduate degree, it comes with a high ROI in the long run.

    Is the MBA a 2-Year degree?

    Traditionally, an MBA is considered a 2-year degree program. However, with many flexible online and hybrid options emerging, MBA degree program timelines vary from 1 to 5 years or more.

    Conclusion

    An MBA degree program is an effective tool to advance your career. Whether you want to climb up the corporate ladder or boost your earnings, MBA programs can make the road to achieve your goals smoother and faster. Depending on your program format and length, you can easily get an MBA between one and five years.

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