MBA Admission
Subjective
As hard as it is to believe, the GMAT score is probably the only part of your application that can be viewed in a completely objective manner. GPAs, for example, may be interpreted differently, depending on what you majored in during your undergrad and what school you attended. A member of the admissions committee might even have a preference or a dislike for certain undergrad schools, which could affect how he or she views the student's transcript and grades. The same is true of a student's work history. Members of the committee may already have pre-conceived ideas about certain companies and the types of people they hire. So, for example, two people who held the same position but worked at different companies might have their work experience judged in a completely different manner. And, certainly, the other application components are open to very subjective evaluation. The interview, for example, may be more about how you present yourself and the enthusiasm you show than what you actually say. With respect to the essay, those making admissions decisions will be looking to get an idea of who you are when they read your composition. Of course, there is no way that people would ever be able to judge a student's qualifications and make decisions in a totally objective manner. The only thing those hoping to study for an MBA can do is obtain the highest score possible on the GMAT and ensure that their interview, essay, and resume represent them and their qualifications in the best possible light.Objective
These are the components of your application that are not really open to interpretation. For example, GMAT scores are extremely objective. It is as simple as comparing the scores of applicants to see who has come out on top.Part-Time MBA
At one time, those who wanted to obtain an MBA usually left their jobs, at least temporarily, and headed off to a university. Once there, they devoted the next two years to full-time study in order to obtain the coveted degree. In recent years, however, many people are deciding to attend school part time to obtain their MBA. There are several differences between a full-time and a part-time MBA. Not surprisingly, a part-time MBA usually takes longer to complete, with the coursework spread out over a time period of three or more years, rather than the two required for a full-time MBA. The type of MBA one wishes to obtain is certainly a personal choice, but there are numerous reasons to consider a part-time MBA.Debt
Any MBA program is going to require footing a hefty bill to obtain the degree. However, those who attend school part time can pay down their debt while they study. This is because most choose to remain in the workforce, so they still have an income while attending school. In fact, many are able to graduate from the part-time MBA program debt free, something that many full-time students can only dream of doing.Career
For those who already have a great employer, and want to continue working for them after graduation, part-time study may be a good choice. Even the most flexible of employers may be reluctant to grant their workers two years off, and while studying full time, there is a good chance that opportunities for advancement will be missed. With a part-time MBA, however, there is no need to leave the work force. Students can continue to gain more work experience and get an education at the same time. In fact, some employees are able to secure raises and promotions before they have even finished their degree.Flexibility
Most MBA students are older than the average university student, and so they might have commitments to spouses and children. A part-time MBA program offers flexibility with class times. Students can choose to study in the evenings and on weekends, so their schedule can be arranged in such a way that their personal obligations can still be met. Because part-time study often allows students to avoid the excessive debt associated with full-time institutions, lets them remain in the work force, and offers enough flexibility that their personal obligations can still be met, the part-time MBA option will no doubt become even more popular in the years to come.Professional MBA
Professional MBA programs are specifically designed for people who are currently employed in the business world and want to pursue an MBA. Although many professionals pay for the degree out of their own pocket, a significant number also have some or all of the costs associated with the degree covered by their employer. Many professional MBA programs combine features of part-time and distance learning programs. The result is a challenging program that allows students to finish their degree in roughly the same amount of time as if they had attended a full-time institution, while also being able to remain in the workforce. Following is a brief overview of the admissions criteria and course delivery for typical professional MBA programs.Admissions
In general, the admissions criteria are just as rigorous for professional MBA programs as for full-time ones. Potential students must write the GMAT, provide a transcript and references, and may also be required to participate in an interview.Course delivery
The exact way in which the program will be structured will vary from school to school. However, students may be required to attend on-campus classes as some schools have several full days of classes that occur approximately once a month. Students attend classes on campus and interact with their instructors and colleagues. In addition, some program requirements may have to be completed on the student's own time. This is often done through online learning platforms.While many part-time programs allow the student to work at their own pace, most professional MBA programs do not. There are regular deadlines to meet, and all students in the program take the same courses. They will typically start and finish their MBA degree at the same time. Although handling the aggressive workload while working full-time will obviously be stressful for the student, those enrolled in professional MBA programs have the advantage of finishing the degree quickly, usually within about two years.
Executive MBA Program
Executive MBA programs are similar to part-time MBA programs in several respects. Students do not attend class full time, and typically still hold down a full-time job while they are studying for their degree. However, there are several ways in which an executive MBA program differs from other part-time programs.Students
Students who are accepted into an executive MBA program typically have extensive career experience. Many are already managers or executives at their place of employment, and it is not uncommon for executive MBA students to have more than 10 years of work experience.Structure
In many part-time MBA programs, the student is given the opportunity to work at their own pace. Often, it may take them several years to complete their degree. This is not the case with most executive MBA programs. Students must attend regular classes and keep up with coursework. In addition, all students in the program will have the same schedule, so the entire class will begin and finish the degree at the same time. The length of most executive MBA programs is two years.Expenses
Most people who make a personal decision to obtain an MBA are required to pay for the cost of the degree out of their own pocket. For many executive MBA students, however, some or all of their costs are covered by their employer, although this does not happen as often as it once did.Intensity
Although the same topics are covered in an executive MBA as other MBA programs, the coursework is usually much more intense. Because the students already possess extensive business experience and knowledge, the professors can usually delve a little deeper into issues and theories.Many executive MBA programs stress peer collaboration, so all students have a unique opportunity to interact with and learn from other skilled professionals with experience in a variety of fields. This type of MBA is a great choice for highly experienced business people who want to advance in their careers, but who do not want to take time away from their jobs to study full time.
Full-Time MBA
Although many people are choosing to complete their MBA through distance learning programs, most who attend school full time to get their MBA feel that it is the best choice. A full-time MBA usually takes two years to complete, and students are required to attend on-campus classes and seminars. Full-time MBA programs are known for being very intense, but students are usually rewarded for their hard work with great positions and a hefty increase in salary after they graduate. There are many reasons why a full- time MBA program is a great choice.Faster completion
Some part-time students find that it takes them many years to complete their MBA. However, with full-time study, you only need to invest two years before you can begin reaping the rewards of this coveted degree.You can focus on your studies
Sure, it may sound great to be able to study wherever and whenever you want, but work commitments and personal obligations can prevent you from putting as much into the program as you would like. With a full-time MBA, studying is essentially your career for two years. Being able to focus all of your energy on doing well, allows you to gain an incredible amount of knowledge and, hopefully, outstanding grades.Choice of courses
Most full-time institutions offer a wide array of courses. Often, students complete general business courses during their first year of study, then specialize during their second year by choosing electives that focus on business areas in which they would like to specialize. Having a strong background in a specific area will definitely help you find a good job in your field.Networking
Meeting fellow students and participating in internships are cited by many full-time students as crucial to finding employment after graduation. In addition, having the opportunity to converse with others who have different views and ideas will enhance communication skills and broaden your horizons.Recognition
When it is time for recruiters from prestigious corporations to hire MBA students, they usually turn first to graduates from full-time institutions. The top ranked MBA programs are the ones offered by traditional universities and, simply put, full-time programs are generally more recognized and respected.You may have to leave your current position, relocate, and take on some debt, but if you obtain a full- time MBA from a top school, it will most certainly be worth the investment and sacrifice.