There are several different types of MBA degrees that you can earn and specializations that you can study. If you are planning to earn your advanced business degree in an effort to expand your real-world knowledge or to become more marketable to prospective employers, it is important to distinguish between program types so that you are able to choose the best program with the best layout and the best content, according to the Princeton Review. Some MBA degree programs are best suited for the young professional and others are suited for those who already hold upper-level titles. Read on, and you can find the degree that is going to offer you the best return on investment.
Traditional Full-time MBA Programs
The most common type of program that is offered by business schools is the traditional full-time MBA program for all professionals with at least a minimum amount of professional experience. These full-time programs have classes throughout the week and that will run for a span of two years. Since these programs have a traditional-style schedule, you will still enjoy summer and winter breaks where you can give your brain a rest and reconnect with friends and family.
Part-time or Professional MBA Programs
Part-time MBA programs, also commonly referred to as professional MBA programs or PMBA's, are more common options for those who are working full-time and still want to attend school. These part-time programs allow students the option to meet on weeknights or even on weekends, so that they can still report to the office in the day. PMBA programs have more serious work experience admissions requirements because there is such a high demand for flexibility.
Executive MBA Programs
The Executive MBA program, or EMBA, is just for applicants who have a great deal of work experience as a manager or executive. This type of program is great for students who will have a high-level of responsibility at work, but who want to network with other executives in other industries who can teach them new practices or new approaches to business. Like a part-time program, it can take three to five years to earn EMBA's when attending class solely on weekends.
Global and International MBA Programs
Business is becoming a much more global environment. This is why immersing yourself in new cultures and learning the way business is done overseas is critical. Since there is a demand for professionals who are globally-minded, enrollment in global and international programs has skyrocketed, according to Forbes.
Global MBA programs place a global emphasis on the curriculum and also accept more foreign students to make the classroom more diverse. International programs are available for student travelers who have the freedom to leave the U.S. to study in a foreign land. While it does cost to travel, the cost for tuition in some of the more popular countries is lower than domestic rates. Many international programs can also be completed in nine to 12 months.
Further Reading:
Top 10 Most Affordable AACSB Online MBA Programs
Once you select a program type, you may need to set your sights on picking a specialization. While all programs have a focus on business principles and practices, specializations will help you focus more on what you will use. Be sure to compare the schools that have the best reputation and do not forget the importance of accreditation. After you compare the different types of MBA degrees and the admissions requirements, you will be ready to make your move.