How Long Does it Take to Get an M.B.A.?
One of the key questions you may ask as you explore graduate programs is how long does it take to get an M.B.A.? The answer to this question is: it depends! There are several factors such as the type of program, your academic background, and whether you choose to study full time or part time. You can complete an M.B.A. in as little as 1.5 years or go at your own pace through six semesters.
At The Peter J. Tobin College of Business at St. John’s University, there are various paths to earning your M.B.A., including full-time, part-time, and online M.B.A. programs.
What are the Different Types of M.B.A.s?
Full-Time, Accelerated M.B.A.
Sometimes called a traditional M.B.A., a full-time M.B.A. requires you to take a minimum of 12 credits per semester. Full-time students typically complete the program within three semesters. Pursuing a full-time M.B.A. is the most accelerated pathway to completing your degree. Full-time M.B.A. students typically begin right after finishing their bachelor’s degree or have a few years of work experience, though it is not typically a prerequisite.
Part-Time M.B.A.
A part-time M.B.A. has no minimum credit requirement per semester and allows you to complete the program at your own pace. Typically, students pursue three to nine credits per semester, with an average completion time of six semesters. Part-time M.B.A. students could range from newly graduated to professionals with 10 or more years of work experience.
A part-time M.B.A. is an ideal pathway for working students who need to balance career, personal, and academic goals. Despite being more flexible, this pathway still offers a top-quality education. In fact, St. John’s part-time M.B.A. program was ranked among the best in the nation by Fortune.
Online M.B.A.
The most flexible M.B.A. option, the online MBA can be completed without ever stepping foot inside a classroom. Ranked by U.S. News and World Report and Fortune as among the best online M.B.A. programs in 2023, the St. John’s online M.B.A. can be completed full or part time. Full-time online M.B.A. students complete the program in an average of three semesters, while part-time M.B.A. students complete it in an average of six semesters.
How Many Credit Hours Are in an M.B.A.?
Depending on the M.B.A. you pursue, your program may require between 36 and 57 credits.
The 36-credit M.B.A. structure includes
- Eight Core Courses (24 credits)
- One Required Capstone Course (3 credits)
- Three Concentration Field Courses (9 credits)
| Program | Overview | Credits | Est. Time to Complete |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tobin M.B.A. | Enroll in onsite, online, or flex courses. Our flex courses are seven weeks onsite, followed by seven weeks of online learning, with a focus on case studies and real-world projects. | 36 | Full-time: 3 semesters Part-time: 6 semesters |
| Online M.B.A. | Offers incredible flexibility, so you can earn your M.B.A. while continuing your career. Take classes synchronously or asynchronously, while having the option to enroll in onsite courses. | 36 | Full-time: 3 semesters Part-time: 6 semesters |
| STEM M.B.A. | Designed to meet the needs of students who are interested in pursuing analytical and technical management roles across industries. | 45 | Full-time: 4 semesters Part-time: 5-7 semesters |
| Accounting M.B.A. | Supplements the Tobin M.B.A. with a level of technical competence that permits entry into the profession of public accountancy or to enter corporate management in the accounting area. | 57 | Full-time: 6 semesters Part-time: 8-10 semesters |
How Can I Balance Full-Time Work and My M.B.A.?
Pursuing an M.B.A. is a commitment that requires time management skills. In order to stay on track with your M.B.A. curriculum and balance obligations in your personal life and full-time job, you may want to consider one of the more flexible pathways, like the part-time or online M.B.A. formats.
As you plan out your courseload, consider using the following strategies:
- Prioritize and plan: Consider your workload and academic deadlines. Determine, if possible, which semesters or times of the year you may have more responsibilities at the workplace before scheduling more credit hours. Use a calendar or planner to keep track of your various tasks and due dates.
- Integrate your work experience and courses: Every St. John’s M.B.A. program includes coursework that is directly applicable to the current business environment. Looking for direct connections between what you are studying and your workplace priorities can not only reinforce new knowledge and skills, but may also impress your employer with your growing expertise.
- Take advantage of student resources: Don't hesitate to use the resources available to you. At St. John’s, all graduate students have access tostudent services, including the Center for Student Success, the Writing Center, and the Career Development Office.
Do Shorter M.B.A. Programs Offer Less Value?
When comparing which M.B.A. program is right for you, focus less on the number of credit hours or length of the program and more on the coursework and specialization that is right for your career goals.
Credit hours and length of the program are more related to the specialization and are no indication of the level of rigor or quality in an M.B.A. program. Instead, consider factors like program reputation, accreditation, faculty expertise, and course delivery.
Ready to Learn More about Starting Your M.B.A.?
A graduate admission representative is ready to answer any questions you may have! Contact Tobingradnyc@stjohns.edu to learn more.
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