How long does it take to get an MBA?
By: James M. Tobin, Edited by: Valerie Black
Published: January 9, 2025
Standard, full-time MBA programs usually take two to three years to complete. Depending on your background, the program's structure, and your enrollment status, you could earn your MBA in more time or less.
How long does it take to get an MBA? Find out with this guide.
How long is an MBA program?
Business schools usually use semesterly schedules to structure their MBA programs. Many graduate programs require students to complete 30 to 60 credits, sometimes more. Your completion timeline will heavily depend on how many credits your program requires, but typical, full-time students can usually complete an MBA in two to three years.
Many programs may have students continue their courseload during the summer semester, at least during the first year. During the summer, you may complete coursework, participate in an internship or field experience, or both.
Standard programs cover general accounting, finance, marketing, operations management, and business strategy topics. Many programs offer concentrations, which allow you to build greater expertise in a select area. Concentration programs may have additional credit requirements, but their graduation timelines are usually similar to general MBA programs.
Some online MBA programs offer self-pacing options, which could lead to faster completion. Their intensive nature makes them the best fit for confident, experienced students with relevant academic and professional backgrounds.
Accelerated MBA Programs
How long does it take to get an MBA? If you elect for an accelerated program, it will take significantly less time.
Accelerated MBA programs pack intensive learning into compact formats. While some lead to graduation in as little as 10 months, completion timelines often span between 12 to 16 months and go up to about 18 months.
Students often choose accelerated MBAs because they are efficient. They offer the fastest way to access the financial and professional benefits that an MBA can deliver.
When considering the time lengths of accelerated MBA degrees, look carefully at program structures. Their fast, intense paces can create challenges if you plan to balance your schooling with full-time employment or other outside commitments.
What jobs can you get with an MBA?
Below are some jobs you can pursue after earning an MBA, with salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
MBA degrees are also an excellent option for emerging entrepreneurs and business owners.
How can I make my MBA program shorter?
Beyond choosing an accelerated program, you may have several options for making your standard MBA degree shorter. Examples include:
- Overloading classes beyond a typical full-time schedule
- Choosing a program that grants credits for your existing academic and professional experiences
- Studying full-time during summer breaks, if your program doesn't utilize the summer semester
Finishing faster can help you save on costs while getting you into the full-time workforce with a valuable MBA degree. However, it can also create challenges. MBA programs are demanding, and packing your schedule with intensive coursework can compromise academic performance. You might also find a heavy pace more stressful.
For most students, proceeding at an efficient but manageable pace works best.