Is a Part-Time MBA worth it?

If you're looking to accelerate your career or switch professions, a part-time MBA can be a worthwhile investment. You'll gain insights into business and prepare to lead with impact in a digitally transforming world. 

A part-time MBA program offers a flexible schedule, allowing you to complete your degree at a pace that suits your professional and personal commitments. By balancing coursework with your responsibilities, you can immediately apply new skills to your current role, making it a smart investment in your future. 

No matter how you earn your MBA, it'll open doors to advanced career opportunities and increased earning potential. 

In this article, we'll explore the benefits of a part-time MBA; why it's worth the investment; how it compares to other MBA formats; and tips for managing your studies alongside work and personal commitments. 

How does a part-time MBA compare to a full-time MBA? 

A part-time MBA shares many similarities with a full-time MBA but also has many differences. Both programs typically cover the same course material, providing a comprehensive education in advanced business principles and management skills. They also result in the same valuable credential: an MBA degree. 

The main differences are the pace and structure of the programs. A full-time MBA is typically completed in one to two years of intensive study. Studying full-time requires students to dedicate themselves fully to coursework without the distraction of full-time employment. A part-time MBA allows students to continue working full-time while completing their studies. This flexibility allows part-time students to apply their learning directly to their current roles without putting their careers on pause. 

While a full-time MBA allows students to fully immerse themselves in their studies, students can also take advantage of MBA internships or corporate residency opportunities to gain practical experience. 

Additionally, the time it takes to complete a part-time MBA can vary widely, often spanning two to five years or more, depending on the program and the student's course load. This extended timeline allows students to balance their work, personal life, and academics. 

While both part-time and full-time MBAs offer the same foundational knowledge and degree, choosing between them depends on personal circumstances, career goals, and desired learning pace.  

How long does a part-time MBA take to complete?  

A part-time MBA typically takes two to five years to complete, depending on factors such as the program's specific requirements, the student's course load, and if the student takes advantage of accelerated or extended study options offered by the program.  

Part-time MBA programs are designed for students to complete their MBA studies while still working full-time, offering the flexibility needed to balance academics with career responsibilities and personal commitments. 

Meet some of our PART-TIME MBA students

First-generation immigrant, LGBTQ+ advocate, and international project manager

Helping companies build an infrastructure for diversity and pay equity

Achieving professional goals broadening academic horizons

Merging interests in marketing and entrepreneurship in a Part-Time MBA

Who should earn a part-time MBA? 

A part-time MBA can appeal to many individuals, including working professionals looking to enhance their career prospects and deepen their business knowledge without interrupting their current employment. A part-time MBA program can also appeal to career changers looking to pivot to a new industry or role while maintaining a steady income, as well as individuals hoping to advance within their current field. 

A part-time MBA is ideal for those who need a flexible schedule and want to apply what they learn directly to their jobs.  

Do employers value part-time MBAs?  

Employers value MBAs, which makes the time commitment of pursuing any format of an MBA program worth it. Regardless of how the degree is earned and how long it took the student to complete, it appears on a resume as an MBA. The ability to balance multiple responsibilities while pursuing an MBA part-time shows strong time management skills, dedication, and a proactive approach to career advancement—all qualities highly valued in professional settings. 

Employers often appreciate the practical application of knowledge gained during a part-time MBA. Students can immediately apply new skills and insights to their current roles, which can significantly improve work performance. 

The MBA curriculum equips students with broad business knowledge, critical problem-solving skills, and effective communication abilities crucial for leadership roles. These skills are highly valued in today's competitive business environment, making a part-time MBA a valuable asset for career opportunities and professional growth. 

Can you earn a part-time MBA on campus? 

Yes, you can earn a part-time MBA on campus. Earning an MBA on campus can provide many advantages over online MBA programs. A campus learning environment provides a dynamic and immersive experience that goes beyond virtual interactions. However, online MBAs can benefit students who require more flexibility and cannot access a campus. 

In an urban setting like Boston, students benefit from being at the heart of a vibrant business community, with access to networking opportunities, guest speakers, and experiential learning initiatives that can enhance their educational journey. Being physically present also allows for face-to-face interactions with professors and peers, which creates deeper connections and collaboration. 

A campus setting can also facilitate easier access to resources such as libraries, career services, and facilities, enhancing the overall educational experience. 

Take the next step 

Start your journey to career advancement with a part-time MBA at the world-renowned D'Amore-McKim School of Business at Northeastern University. Connect with admissions to explore program options tailored to your career goals and schedule. Or, you can attend an information session to learn more about how a part-time MBA can benefit your professional development and prepare you for leadership roles in today's competitive business landscape.