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Ameer Khatri MBA Consultant

Part time & Weekend MBA

September 14, 2023

650

Avg. GMAT

29

Avg. Age

$ 88K

Avg. Cost of Study

24 – 36 

Avg. Months Duration 

$ 110K

Avg. Salary

Table of Contents

Why Choose Part Time & Weekend MBA?

Part-time and weekend MBA programs cater to working professionals seeking career advancement without the need to leave their current jobs, offering a curriculum and networking opportunities comparable to full-time MBA programs while affording a more accommodating schedule.

Opting for a part-time or weekend MBA presents several compelling reasons: Firstly, it enables individuals to sustain their income and work experience by permitting them to work full-time alongside pursuing their degree, facilitating the immediate application of newfound knowledge to their current job roles. Moreover, many part-time and weekend MBA students experience career progression, including promotions and salary increases, even before completing their studies, as employers highly value the skills and insights MBA graduates bring.

These programs also offer an extensive network of professional contacts, mirroring the networking potential of full-time MBA programs allowing students to connect with peers, faculty, and alumni who can prove invaluable for their careers. Additionally, many prestigious business schools provide part-time and weekend MBA options, eliminating the need for job displacement or relocation to earn a respected MBA qualification.

Notably, these flexible and cost-effective MBA options have experienced a 10% increase in enrollment rates in recent years, reflecting their rising popularity. For working professionals aspiring to advance their careers, part-time or weekend MBA programs offer an attractive pathway. It’s essential to carefully evaluate your specific needs and objectives while researching various institutions before selecting your program.

Part Time & Weekend MBA v/s Traditional MBA

When deciding whether to pursue a part-time or weekend MBA or a traditional MBA, there are a number of factors to consider, including your career goals, financial situation, and work-life balance.

Traditional MBA

  • A full-time program typically spans two years.
  • Intensive coursework during weekdays.
  • A Traditional MBA involves extracurricular activities, networking events, and academic commitments on evenings and weekends.
  • It is ideal for those who can commit full-time to their studies and wish for a shorter MBA duration.

Part-Time & Weekend MBA

  • Designed for working professionals.
  • Typically takes three to five years for completion.
  • Classes are held during evenings and weekends, accommodating work schedules.
  • Suitable for individuals seeking a balanced approach to career development without leaving their current jobs.

Which is right for you?

The best type of MBA program for you depends on your individual needs and goals. If you’re a working professional who wants to advance your career without leaving your job, a part-time or weekend MBA program may be the right choice for you. A traditional MBA program may be the better option if you’re a recent college graduate or early-career professional who wants to change careers or accelerate your career.

Here are some additional things to consider when making your decision:

  • Cost: Traditional MBA programs are typically more expensive than part-time or weekend MBA programs. However, many financial aid options are available to MBA students, including scholarships, loans, and grants.
  • Time commitment: Part-time and weekend MBA programs can be challenging to balance with a full-time job. However, many students are able to do so successfully with careful planning and time management.
  • Career goals: Consider your career goals and what type of MBA program will best help you achieve them. If you need more clarification about your career goals, a traditional MBA program may give you more time to explore your options.

— Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of MBA program is right for you is to talk to current and former students, visit different schools, and compare programs carefully.

Standard Course Structure : Part Time & Weekend MBA

The course structure for a part-time and weekend MBA program will vary depending on the school, but most programs will include the following:

Core courses

These courses cover the essential business fundamentals, such as accounting, economics, finance, marketing, management, and statistics.

Elective courses

These courses allow students to specialize in a particular area of business, such as finance, marketing, or healthcare management.

Capstone project

This project is an opportunity for students to apply what they have learned in the program to a real-world business challenge.

In addition to coursework, many part-time and weekend MBA programs also offer students the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities, such as case competitions, networking events, and international exchanges.

How Courses Are Delivered

Part-time and weekend MBA courses are typically delivered in a mixed format, with a combination of online and in-person instruction. Online courses allow students to learn at their own pace and schedule, while in-person classes allow students to interact with their classmates and professors face-to-face.

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum structure for a part-time and weekend MBA program will vary depending on the school, but most programs will be structured as follows:

  • Year 1: Core courses
  • Year 2: Elective courses
  • Year 3: Capstone project

Students typically take two to three courses per semester. Classes are typically held on evenings and weekends, and some programs also offer online courses.

Benefits of a Part-Time and Weekend MBA

There are many benefits to pursuing a part-time and weekend MBA, including:

  • Flexibility: Part-time and weekend MBA programs are designed for working professionals who must balance their studies and careers.
  • Affordability: Part-time and weekend MBA programs are typically less expensive than full-time MBA programs.
  • Networking opportunities: Part-time and weekend MBA programs offer students the opportunity to network with a diverse group of classmates, faculty, and alumni.
  • Career advancement: An MBA degree can help students advance their careers and earn higher salaries.

— If you are a working professional who is interested in pursuing an MBA degree, a part-time and weekend MBA program may be a good option for you.

Program Costs + Living Expenses : Part Time & Weekend MBA

$ 60,000 

Avg. Tuition Fee

+ 

$ 18,000

Avg. Living Cost

+ 

$ 10,000

Additional Charges

88,000

Avg. Cost of Study

The cost of a part-time or weekend MBA program varies based on the institution and the country of study, typically ranging from $30,000 to $110,000 for a two-year program, encompassing tuition and fees.

In addition to these academic expenses, you should budget for living costs, which average around $1,500 per month for international students in the United States, covering housing, food, transportation, and other necessities; this is around $18,000 annually.

International students may also encounter supplementary charges like visa fees, health insurance, and international student support services fees, so it’s advisable to inquire with your chosen institution for any additional fees.

Fortunately, various financial aid avenues are available, including scholarships, loans, and grants, for part-time and weekend MBA students to explore. While the investment in an MBA program can be substantial, it often leads to higher earning potential and opens doors to career advancement, making it a valuable long-term investment in your professional journey.

Eligibility Criteria : Part Time & Weekend MBA

The eligibility criteria for part-time and weekend MBA programs vary from school to school, but there are some standard requirements that most schools have.

Common Eligibility Criteria

  • Bachelor’s degree: All part-time and weekend MBA programs require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
  • Work experience: Many part-time and weekend MBA programs require applicants to have at least two years of work experience. This experience helps students to get the most out of the program and to apply what they are learning in the classroom to their jobs.
  • GMAT or GRE scores: Most part-time and weekend MBA programs require applicants to submit scores from the GMAT or GRE. These standardized tests are used to assess applicants’ quantitative and analytical skills.
  • English language proficiency: International students are typically required to submit scores from an English language proficiency test, such as the TOEFL or IELTS. This test ensures students have the English language skills necessary to succeed in the program.

Additional Requirements

Some part-time and weekend MBA programs may have additional requirements, such as:

  • Letters of recommendation: Many programs require applicants to submit two or three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
  • Personal statement: Applicants are typically required to write a personal statement that explains their career goals and why they are interested in pursuing an MBA.
  • Interview: Some programs may require applicants to interview with a member of the admissions committee.

Tips for Meeting the Eligibility Criteria

Meeting all the eligibility criteria is essential to increase your chances of being accepted into a part-time or weekend MBA program. Here are some tips for the same:

  • Get a good GPA in your undergraduate studies. A strong GPA shows that you are a capable student and prepared for the rigors of an MBA program.
  • Gain work experience. Work experience will help you to get the most out of the program and to apply what you are learning in the classroom to your job.
  • Prepare for the GMAT or GRE. The GMAT and GRE are standardized tests used to assess applicants’ quantitative and analytical skills. You can prepare for these tests by taking a test preparation course or by using online resources.
  • Improve your English language skills. If you are an international student, improving your English language skills is important before applying to an MBA program. You can do this by taking an English language course or practicing English with native speakers.

Scholarships Available : Part Time & Weekend MBA

Many different types of scholarships are available to part-time and weekend MBA students. Some of the most common types of scholarships include:

Merit-based Scholarships

Merit-based scholarships are granted to students based on their academic excellence and achievements. This typically includes factors like undergraduate GPA, standardized test scores (such as the GMAT or GRE), work experience, and leadership skills. Recipients of these scholarships have demonstrated outstanding potential for academic success and leadership within the MBA program.

Need-based Scholarships

Need-based scholarships are designed to support students with demonstrated financial need. Eligibility for these scholarships often relies on factors such as family income, financial obligations, and assets. Need-based scholarships aim to make higher education more accessible for students facing financial barriers in pursuing an MBA.

Employer-sponsored Scholarships

Some companies provide employer-sponsored scholarships to employees pursuing an MBA degree. These scholarships are often part of an organization’s commitment to employee development and retention. Employees selected for these scholarships can further their education while maintaining their current job, often with a commitment to return to the company after completing the MBA.

Diversity Scholarships

Diversity scholarships are awarded to students who represent underrepresented or diverse backgrounds, including but not limited to women, minorities, veterans, and individuals from various cultural, ethnic, or social backgrounds. These scholarships aim to promote diversity and inclusion within MBA programs and the broader business community.

Industry Scholarships

Industry-specific scholarships are tailored for students interested in pursuing a career within a particular industry or sector, such as finance, healthcare, technology, or other specialized fields. These scholarships may be sponsored by organizations or associations related to that industry and are often accompanied by specific criteria or requirements related to career goals and aspirations.

Here is a list of some scholarships you should look into:

Career Prospects : Part Time & Weekend MBA

92%

Employed within 3 months of graduation

110,000

Avg. Salary

The Key Employment and Salary Statistics indicate that Part-time MBA graduates enjoy robust career prospects. According to a 2022 Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) survey, 92% of part-time MBA graduates secured employment within three months of graduation, showcasing strong employability, though slightly lower than full-time MBA graduates (96%).

These graduates also command competitive average starting salaries, with the 2022 GMAC survey reporting an average starting salary of $110,000 for part-time MBA graduates, surpassing the earnings of those with only a bachelor’s degree.

Part-time MBA graduates access a diverse array of career opportunities spanning industries like consulting, finance, marketing, and operations management, with many opting for entrepreneurial ventures.

To succeed in a part-time MBA program, planning meticulously, managing time effectively, and maintaining organization to keep track of assignments and deadlines are crucial.

While part-time MBA programs offer a path to career advancement, prospective students should be aware of both their advantages and challenges before embarking on this educational journey.

Top Colleges for Part Time & Weekend MBA

UniversityDetailsSuggested
Chicago Booth School of Business

Duration: 36 months

Avg. Working Experience: 10 years*

Tuition Fee: approximately $49,000

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Chicago Booth Part Time MBA Overview
Ross School of Business

Duration: 24 months

Avg. Working Experience: 12 – 24 months*

Tuition Fee: $ 143K – $153K

Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan

Michigan Ross Part Time MBA Overview
Kellogg School of Management

Duration: 12 – 48 months

Avg. Working Experience: 6 years*

Tuition Fee: approximately $205K

Location: Evanston, Illinois

Kellogg Part Time MBA Overview
NYU Stern

Duration: 2 – 6 years

Avg. Working Experience: 1 – 10 years*

Tuition Fee: $170,380

Location: New York Coty, NY

NYU Stern Part Time MBA Overview
Indian School of Business

Duration: 36 months

Avg. Working Experience: 11 years*

Tuition Fee: $70,189

Location: Hyderabad, India

ISB PGP Pro Part Time MBA Overview
Haas School of Business

Duration: 36 months

Avg. Working Experience: 8 years*

Tuition Fee: $3,708 per unit (42 units required for graduation)

Location: Berkeley, California

Berkeley Haas Part Time MBA Overview
Nanyang Technological University

Duration: 18 months

Avg. Working Experience: 9.5 years

Tuition Fee: S$81,750

Location: Singapore

Nanyang Professional MBA (Part Time) Overview
Scheller College of Business

Duration: 24 – 36 months

Avg. Working Experience: 7 years*

Tuition Fee: $66K – $68K

Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Scheller College of Business Evening MBA Overview

Application Process & timeline

We strongly advise all our clients to have a proper excel sheet or a timetables mapped out.
Once you are done with GMAT the entire application process usually take 4-6 weeks

Step 1

GMAT / GRE Score

2-3 months.

If you are not sure about what score to target then look at the average score of the schools you want and shoot above the average. 

Step 2

Profile Evaluation

 1-2 weeks.

Get your profile evaluated from a professional consultant and figure out what schools you can target based on your profile

Step 3

Application Prep

3-4 weeks at least. 

Start writing at least 1 month in advance of their 1st deadline. First application usually takes the longest.

Step 4

Interview Prep

1 week

School will notify you and give you roughly 1 week to schedule your interview. Ideally, start your prep ASAP and Do some mock interviews.

FAQs about Part Time & Weekend MBA

Yes, that’s one of the primary advantages of these programs. Part-Time and Weekend MBA programs are structured to allow students to continue working while studying. The flexibility in scheduling classes during non-working hours makes it feasible to balance both commitments.

Effective time management and careful planning are essential. Creating a well-structured schedule that allocates time for work, school, and personal life is the key. It’s also advisable to seek support from family and friends, and some schools offer resources like time management workshops to assist students.

Yes, many institutions and external organizations offer scholarships specifically for part-time and weekend MBA students. These scholarships can be merit-based, need-based, industry-specific, or related to diversity. Applicants should thoroughly research scholarship opportunities and apply for those they qualify for.

While part-time and weekend MBA students may have less time for extracurricular activities and networking events, many programs still provide ample opportunities to network with peers, faculty, and alumni. It’s essential to actively participate in networking activities to make the most of your MBA experience.

Employers generally value the skills and knowledge gained in Part-Time and Weekend MBA programs, as they simultaneously recognize the commitment and dedication required to balance work and education. While full-time MBAs may have more extensive networking opportunities, part-time and weekend graduates often demonstrate practical experience and the ability to apply their learning immediately.

What Can We Do For You?

Profile Evaluation

Take our Free Profile evaluation and figure out your strengths and weakness

Application Prep

We help guide our clients through the entire application journey

Interview Prep

Need Help with your Interview Prep? We got you covered via mock interviews

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