In this article:
- Learn how program structure and enrollment options (full time vs. part time) impact the time it takes to earn your MBA.
- Discover practical tips from Kelley Direct Online MBA students on balancing work and personal commitments while completing your degree coursework.
- Explore key considerations, including accreditation, curriculum specializations, and career support, to ensure the best fit for your goals.
Earning an MBA is a strategic move for professionals looking to advance their careers but deciding between an online vs. in-person program comes with important considerations—especially when it comes to time commitment. One of the most common questions prospective students ask is: how long does it take to get an MBA online compared to an in-person program? The answer varies based on factors such as program structure and enrollment status.
Traditional in-person MBAs often follow a fixed schedule, with full-time programs typically taking one to two years to complete and part-time options extending to three to five years. In contrast, online MBA programs provide more flexibility, allowing students to set their own pace. Some online students accelerate their studies and graduate in as little as 12 to 18 months, while others choose a part-time schedule that accommodates work and personal commitments, extending their timeline to three to five years or more.
The choice between an online and in-person MBA largely depends on your lifestyle, learning preferences, and career goals. In this guide, we’ll explore the factors that influence how long it takes to earn an online MBA versus an in-person degree, helping you determine which format best aligns with your professional and personal priorities.
How long does it take to complete an MBA? Key considerations for any program
The time commitment required for an MBA, whether in person or online, depends on several key factors, including the structure of the program and a student’s capacity and availability. Full-time programs typically offer a faster path to completion, often ranging from one to two years, while part-time options provide greater flexibility but can take three to five years to finish.
Students who have relevant coursework or professional experience may be able to shorten their timeline through credit transfers or prior learning assessments. Understanding these variables is essential for prospective students looking to choose the right MBA program that aligns with their career goals and personal responsibilities.
Course structure and curriculum
Most online MBA programs require between 30 and 60 credit hours, depending on the specialization and institutional requirements. Some schools follow a traditional semester model, while others offer accelerated eight-week terms, allowing students to complete courses more quickly.
Part-time vs. full-time options
One of the most significant factors that influences how long an MBA takes is whether a student enrolls full time or part time.
A full-time MBA, either in person or online, can be completed in one to two years, depending on the program’s intensity. A part-time MBA, which is often designed for working professionals, can take closer to three to five years due to a lighter course load per semester.
If you’re wondering how long an MBA takes part time, the timeline completely depends on credit requirements, course load per term, and individual pacing. Some institutions offer flexible scheduling to help students balance their commitments.
The benefits of pursuing an MBA online
An online MBA like Kelley Direct can offer unparalleled flexibility, allowing students to balance their education with work and personal commitments while advancing their careers. In addition to its adaptable structure, an online MBA provides access to a diverse, global network of peers, faculty, and industry professionals, fostering valuable connections that can open new career opportunities.
Often with lower tuition costs, savings on commuting and housing, and the ability to continue working full time, an online MBA presents a cost-effective alternative to traditional, on-campus programs—making it an attractive option for professionals seeking career growth without disrupting their current lifestyle.
Flexibility for working professionals
Online MBAs are tailored for students balancing work, family, and education. The ability to schedule coursework around existing commitments makes these programs particularly attractive, especially for those wondering how long it takes to get an MBA part time while managing a career.
“Kelley Direct offers numerous opportunities to take classes at a pace that works for you,” says Kelley Direct Alumni Ambassador Livie Xiu. “The flexibility was a game changer for me.”
This adaptability enables learners to progress through the curriculum at their own pace, accommodating various schedules and learning styles.
Access to global networking opportunities
Online MBA programs connect students with peers, faculty, and industry professionals worldwide. Many schools offer virtual networking events, group projects, and alumni mentorship opportunities, enhancing career prospects.
“Kelley Direct offers numerous opportunities to connect,” shares Xiu. “For instance, the program includes many team assignments and a forum discussion across different courses.”
These interactions foster a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives, enhancing the learning experience and expanding professional networks.
Cost-effectiveness compared to traditional programs
Cost-effectiveness is a notable benefit of online MBA programs. Students can often continue working while studying, maintaining their income and potentially receiving employer support for tuition. Online learners also save on expenses related to relocation, commuting, and on-campus housing, making this educational path more financially accessible.
These cost benefits make online options appealing to those exploring how long it takes to complete an MBA while maintaining financial stability.
Choosing the right online MBA program: Why Kelley Direct stands out
Selecting an online MBA requires careful consideration of key factors such as accreditation, specialization options, faculty quality, and student support services. With numerous programs available, it’s essential to find one that not only fits your schedule but also offers a strong return on investment in terms of career advancement, networking, and skill development.
Accreditation and reputation
When comparing online MBA programs, accreditation is one of the most important indicators of quality. The Kelley Direct Online MBA is accredited by AACSB International (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business), a designation held by only the top business schools worldwide, ensuring that the program meets rigorous academic standards and is highly regarded by employers.
Kelley Direct is consistently ranked as the top online MBA program, with a strong reputation for academic excellence and career outcomes. Researching school rankings, employer recognition, and alumni success rates can help prospective students determine the value of an online MBA and how long it will take to complete based on different program structures.
Curriculum specialization and elective options
Some MBA programs offer specialized tracks in finance, marketing, supply chain and operations, or technology, allowing students to tailor their degrees to career goals.
A diverse and customizable curriculum allows students to tailor their MBA experience to their specific career goals. The Kelley Direct Online MBA offers seven majors:
- Business Analytics
- Digital Technology Management
- Entrepreneurship & Corporate Innovation
- Finance
- Marketing
- Strategy & Leadership
- Supply Chain & Operations
In addition to these majors, students can choose from more than 80 elective courses (more than any other online MBA program), enabling them to gain specialized knowledge in areas that align with their professional aspirations. This flexibility allows students to complete their degrees at their own pace, typically ranging from two to four years, depending on individual circumstances and course load.
Exploring elective offerings can enhance learning opportunities and influence how long it will take to get an MBA based on course availability.
Student support services and career resources
Robust support services are crucial for enhancing the MBA experience and facilitating career advancement. Kelley Direct provides comprehensive student support, including dedicated academic advising and personalized career coaching.
“In order to get the most out of my MBA experience, I’ve really been trying to take advantage of every opportunity that has come my way,” says Jason Skidmore, KD Student Ambassador. “The [career] coaches have been able to create a space that makes me think about questions I haven’t thought about before and set reflections on the goals that I have.”
In-person experiences
While the Kelley Direct Online MBA program primarily offers a flexible online learning environment, it also emphasizes the importance of in-person experiences to enhance education and foster meaningful connections. These immersive sessions are integral to the curriculum, providing students with opportunities to apply their knowledge in real-world settings and build lasting relationships with peers and faculty.
Kelley On Campus: At the onset of the program, students participate in Kelley On Campus, an intensive course held at Indiana University’s Bloomington campus. This weeklong experience serves as an introduction to the Kelley Direct program and online MBA coursework. During this time, students engage in dynamic workshops on emerging business trends and technologies, collaborate closely with their cohort, and establish strong connections with faculty members. This foundational experience is designed to equip students with the skills and networks necessary for success throughout their MBA journey.
Kelley On Location: In the second year, following the completion of core courses, students attend Kelley On Location. This course offers a deep dive into specific industries, geographic regions, or contemporary business challenges. Each year, the experience is uniquely crafted to provide cutting-edge learning opportunities, allowing students to apply their academic insights to real-world scenarios. Past locations have included various US cities, each selected to align with the course’s thematic focus.
Global and domestic immersions: Beyond the required courses, Kelley Direct offers optional global and domestic immersions each term. These experiences enable students to travel internationally or within the US to study different business cultures, engage with local companies, and consult with real clients. Previous immersion destinations have included Athens, Greece; Bangkok, Thailand; Dublin, Ireland; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Silicon Valley; and Washington, D.C. These immersions are designed to broaden students’ perspectives, enhance their understanding of global business practices, and expand their professional networks.
Incorporating these in-person experiences ensures that Kelley Direct Online MBA students receive a comprehensive education that blends the convenience of online learning with the invaluable benefits of face-to-face interaction and hands-on application.
Balancing work and life in an online MBA format
Many students maintain full-time jobs while completing their degrees. Finding the right balance is essential for success.
“I was really trying to jam the MBA program into the current structure of life that I had,” shares Kelley Direct Student Ambassador Jason Skidmore. “I learned that that’s not really possible.”
Establishing clear boundaries between work and school can help prevent burnout. Some students use lunch breaks, commutes, or evenings to complete coursework efficiently. This flexibility helps determine how long it takes to get an MBA part time while still progressing in a career.
“You don’t want to burn out,” says Kelley Direct Alumni Ambassador Alex Cole. “And you also don’t want to burn bridges with your family, friends, or employer. Make sure to keep them informed and involved in your journey.”
For Kelley Direct Student Ambassador Siddhant Garg, communication was key. “I think it’s really important to let the people around you know about the time commitment of an MBA,” shares Garg. “Communicating that early helps set expectations.”
Speaking with an employer about available resources can provide additional support. Many companies offer tuition assistance, schedule flexibility, or professional development incentives for employees pursuing an MBA. Employer-backed education programs can also affect how long it takes to complete an MBA, as some employees take advantage of financial assistance to enroll in more courses per term.
“The fact that my employer and I are able to align on when I can and can’t commit to extra time allows me to make sure that I’m doing the best job, both at my day job as well as for school,” adds Garg.
Time management tools—such as calendars, to-do lists, and time-blocking techniques—can help students stay organized and meet deadlines while balancing work and education. Students weighing how long it can take to complete an MBA should also develop a structured approach to maintain consistency.
Kelley Direct Student Ambassador Alyssa Paul followed a key piece of guidance she received early on. “One of the pieces of advice we were given was to do work in one- to three-hour chunks, rather than trying to dedicate a whole half day or more to any part of your homework.”
Establishing a consistent study routine—such as dedicating specific hours each day to coursework—can help prevent last-minute stress. This method helps students pace their studies efficiently, particularly when assessing how long it takes to get an MBA without overloading their schedule.
“I absolutely love writing down what I need to do in my planner and keeping myself accountable to that schedule. It makes balancing work and school much easier,” says Skidmore.
Keep reading: Researching online MBAs? When to use ChatGPT (and when to avoid it)