Once you’ve decided to explore a graduate program, the next step is to figure out which format is best for you: full time, part time, online or maybe a specialty degree like an Executive MBA. Or perhaps a non-degree graduate certificate in a specific niche is what you need. The answer depends on personal factors like time commitment, professional experience and whether you are looking to change careers or grow within your company. Are you looking for a salary increase or senior management position? Leadership skills and networking opportunities? A career change? Or all of the above?
Here are some helpful distinctions of graduate school formats:
Full-Time. A full-time degree is a good option if you’re trying to change careers or companies. This full-time course load requires taking time off from your career to pursue a degree, or entering immediately after completing your undergraduate degree (before entering the workforce full time). The goal: improve skills and accelerate your career. One- or two-year programs are often available. Bentley’s full-time MBA, for example, requires on-campus day classes in the first year followed by a customized program of evening elective courses during the second year. One of the best reasons to pursue a full-time MBA is to grow your personal network. Working closely with classmates with varied experiences is a great way to learn about career opportunities and make introductions with new people.
Part-Time. The part-time format is more flexible, often with evening classes that allow you to engage with other working professionals on campus or online, or a combination of the two (hybrid). Bentley’s part-time MBA, for example, allows students to customize a degree with one of seven concentrations. It’s often a viable option for those working full time or juggling other commitments.
Online. One of the biggest benefits of an online degree is its flexibility — the freedom to complete coursework whenever you choose, from anywhere you are. Those with families or full-time jobs can choose when school fits into their busy schedules. Bentley’s Accelerated Online MBA offers six-week course intervals with limited in-person meeting times. Choose the pace that fits you — from 18 months to several years.
Executive MBA. The EMBA is for executives who typically have a minimum of five years of experience in a management role, are sponsored by their company, and are looking to apply what they’ve learned on the job. The program is designed to fit full-time employee schedules, so classes are typically held on Fridays and weekends. In Bentley’s EMBA, you will learn in cohorts; most or all of your classes will be with the same group of people, so networking and teamwork become principles of the program.
NOTE: An EMBA is a good option for someone who is ready to commit to their company, who is happy in their current role and career path, and who sees a specific need or skill helping them grow within their organization.
Mini MBA. While many of these programs won’t grant you a credential, they can help you learn many of the skills that are taught in traditional graduate programs. Bentley’s Executive Education program offers a six-day intensive Mini MBA program (three, two-day sessions) focused on leadership and business strategy, finance and marketing fundamentals, and use of design thinking to drive innovation. The format is interactive and team-based with a cohort of peers.
The EMBA and the Mini MBA formats are good options if you’re considering a traditional MBA but are looking for an overview before committing to a course of study or if you’re in a non-business field (medical professionals, attorneys and IT professionals, for example) and are looking for exposure to business topics. Many universities also offer non-degree options like certificates and executive education programs in a niche area of business to help accelerate your career.
A graduate degree is an investment that requires careful consideration. Be sure to make a list of personal and professional goals to help decide which program is right for you.
For information about Bentley’s graduate programs, executive education and graduate certificates, visit bentley.edu/graduate.