What Is a Part-time MBA?

A part-time Master of Business Administration (MBA) is an MBA programme with courses you study part-time. This may be through online learning or in-person classes on weekends and evenings. Some part-time programmes, like the executive MBA (EMBA), target professionals already working in business. 

The demand for part-time MBA courses in India is increasing due to the number of other commitments candidates have and the rising financial costs of traditional education. It is more difficult to study in person on a full-time basis, so more and more universities are offering part-time MBA courses.

If you want an MBA and need a flexible schedule, read on to learn more about the part-time MBA, including how long it takes to complete and the courses you need to take. You’ll also discover the benefits and potential disadvantages of studying part-time for an MBA.

Executive MBA

IIT Roorkee

DEGREE

Learn More

What is a part-time MBA?

Part-time MBA programmes offer course content comparable to those offered in full-time programmes. Still, they have more flexibility and allow you the capacity to complete coursework during evenings and around other commitments. Because it is not a full-time programme, the part-time MBA takes longer to complete.

If you search for part-time MBA programmes, you’ll see various degrees offered, such as the PGDM. Here’s a breakdown of each programme and how they are different.

• Part-time MBA: Through a part-time MBA, you take the same courses offered in a traditional MBA programme but on a part-time schedule. The qualification is the same as a full-time MBA.

• EMBA: An executive MBA is a full-time or part-time MBA programme designed specifically for executive-level professionals who want to take classes around their current job.  

• PGDM: A Postgraduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) is similar to an MBA, and some people consider it equivalent to an MBA. This credential is delivered mainly by private business schools, and the courses focus specifically on industry requirements, which makes it a diploma rather than a degree.

• PGPM: A Postgraduate Programme Management (PGPM) programme is for industry professionals looking to improve their management and industry skills, such as decision-making and organisational leadership. Like the PGDM, a PGPM is a diploma, and some employers offer to pay tuition for an employee who wants to take courses. 

How long is a part-time MBA?

A part-time MBA is quite flexible, and the duration it takes to complete varies depending on the course you study. Generally, you may need up to five years to complete a part-time MBA instead of a full-time MBA programme, which typically takes one to two years. You usually take classes over weekends or evenings to fit around other commitments instead of attending full-time.

Who is a part-time MBA for?

The part-time MBA is for anyone who prefers a part-time workload to full-time study. A part-time programme is a great option if you are already working and don’t want to give up your job to study. In this case, a part-time MBA allows you to study around your work commitments—and perhaps apply what you're learning. The same applies if you are looking to fit studying for your MBA around family commitments, child care, and anything else. 

Studying a part-time MBA also helps with any financial burden, as you can spread the cost over a longer period rather than a larger financial outlay in one year. Since you can fit the courses around your schedule, you also have the option to continue earning a full salary as you learn.

Benefits of a part-time MBA

Part-time MBA programmes offer several benefits beyond the flexible schedule. Attending school on a part-time basis allows you to practice what you learn and pay for classes over a longer time.

Flexible schedule

With courses offered during evenings, weekends, and online, a part-time MBA allows you to fit school around commitments, including work, family, and other interests. This flexibility means you can continue working and earning a salary and may feel more comfortable pursuing an education if you have children and other personal commitments. 

Ability to work while paying tuition

Although students with a full-time MBA are more likely to support their education through grants and scholarships, they can continue working while they study. However, studying for an MBA part-time allows you to work simultaneously rather than paying for a course without an additional income. You may even have an employer who benefits from your MBA and is willing to cover the cost of your tuition fees. 

Career development

If you’re already working in a business role, a part-time MBA may help you get a promotion or learn new skills you can use to advance your career. For some roles, like senior management or information technology, employers may prefer hiring individuals with an MBA. If you're already working for the company, you may be able to transfer into these positions after completing the MBA programme. 

Ability to practice while studying

Studying while you work allows you to practice what you learn as you learn it. This allows you to perfect your new skills and gain exposure in a more practical way than only studying in a classroom. For example, while taking a marketing course, you can assist on a marketing project at work and apply the principles you're studying in class to understand how they work in business. This leads to greater responsibility and new opportunities. 

Networking opportunities

Networking through your part-time MBA means you meet more people within your organisation and people in your course who might be useful contacts within your career. They may support you as you complete your coursework, introduce you to new employment opportunities, and encourage personal and professional development. 

Drawbacks of a part-time MBA

Understanding the drawbacks of a part-time MBA, such as the time commitment and intensity of the coursework, is helpful when considering which programme to pursue. Keep in mind the following as you make your decision.

The university experience

Part-time MBA courses are taught during the weekend and evening rather than full-time on campus. Studying this way means you miss out on the university experience of living on campus and interacting with peers outside the classroom. If you choose a distance learning or online programme, you may need access to placements within companies and recruitment in your industry.

Time commitment

While a part-time MBA is flexible, it does take longer to complete. You still have to complete the same number of courses required in a full-time programme but spend less time each week in class. This extra time could delay your career progression since you'll likely be in school for at least a year longer than someone in a full-time programme.

Intensity

The courses you take while studying for an MBA can be intense, especially if you balance work, school, and personal commitments. You may need to learn how to manage your time and decline invitations to ensure you can dedicate the time and energy needed to complete your coursework.

Entry requirements for a part-time MBA

The entry requirements for a part-time MBA programme vary slightly according to the university you study with, but schools generally expect candidates to do the following:

• Have a bachelor's degree from a recognised university with at least 45 per cent marks

• Pass an entrance exam, such as the Common Admission Test (CAT) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)

• Provide proof of professional work experience, typically at least three or four years

Although some universities require a passing score on an entrance exam, others waive this requirement. If the school you want to attend has this criterion, verify the exam you need to take. Entrance exams can include the CAT, MAT, XAT, GMAT, CMAT, SNAP, ATMA, and more. 

Colleges offering a part-time MBA

With the popularity of part-time MBAs, many universities and colleges offer the programme. Make sure you research to find a course that suits you, whether it is a weekend MBA, distance learning programme, or EMBA. The following list highlights universities that offer a part-time MBA and the range of their entry requirements.

Getting started with Coursera

If you're ready to earn an MBA and need the flexibility of a part-time programme, consider online options. For example, the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee offers an online part-time Executive MBA degree programme designed for working professionals. You can study when it's convenient for your schedule, pay as you go, and have access to campus resources. The programme takes two to five years to complete and is available on Coursera.

Executive MBA

IIT Roorkee

DEGREE

Learn More