Choosing the right part-time MBA program can be a game-changer for your career.
You need flexibility to balance both work and studies, and fortunately, many top business schools offer part-time programs designed to meet your needs.
These programs often allow you to take classes in the evenings or on weekends, making it easier to manage your busy schedule.
Which schools offer the best part-time MBA programs? This article will explore the top business schools that provide exceptional part-time MBA options.
These programs are highly rated and can help you advance your career while you continue working.
1) Northwestern University Kellogg
Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management offers one of the top-ranked part-time MBA programs in the country.
You can take classes during the evenings or weekends, providing flexibility to balance your work and study commitments.
Classes are held at Wieboldt Hall in downtown Chicago.
This location is convenient, with hotels just a few blocks away, making it easy for those who travel.
Kellogg’s part-time MBA program is customizable.
You can choose courses that best suit your career goals, allowing you to tailor your education to your needs and interests.
This helps ensure that your learning is relevant and practical for your professional development.
Kellogg is known for its strong emphasis on teamwork and collaboration.
This means you will have many opportunities to work closely with your peers, enhancing your learning experience and building a strong professional network.
The faculty at Kellogg consists of global thought leaders and experienced professionals.
You will learn from individuals who are experts in their fields and bring real-world insights into the classroom.
Kellogg’s part-time MBA program is highly ranked.
According to US News, it is tied for #3 out of 124 in Best Business Schools and #3 out of 269 for part-time MBA programs.
You can start your application on the Kellogg Admissions page.
The application process is straightforward, and you can return to it any time to complete steps toward your future as a business leader.
2) University of Chicago Booth
The University of Chicago Booth School of Business is a top choice for part-time MBA programs.
It offers flexibility, allowing you to choose between evening or weekend classes.
You can take one or two courses at a time, and you have up to five years to complete your degree.
The part-time MBA program at Booth is highly ranked.
It’s rated No. 1 in part-time MBA programs by U.S. News & World Report.
This speaks to the program’s quality and the success of its graduates.
One of the standout features of Booth’s part-time MBA is its customizable curriculum.
You can tailor your studies to fit your career goals.
Whether you want to focus on finance, marketing, or another field, the options are vast.
Booth’s faculty are world-class, the same faculty who teach in the full-time MBA program.
This means you’re getting the same high level of education, no matter your schedule.
Classes are held at the school’s Gleacher Center in downtown Chicago, making it convenient for working professionals.
Another benefit of Booth’s part-time MBA is the network you’ll build.
You’ll join a community of professionals who are leaders in their fields.
This network can be invaluable as you advance in your career.
3) New York University Stern
New York University Stern offers a highly regarded part-time MBA program.
It is one of the top part-time MBA programs in the country, ranked No. 4 out of 269 part-time MBA programs.
The part-time MBA program at NYU Stern includes a flexible schedule.
You can pursue your degree while continuing to work full-time.
This makes it ideal for busy professionals.
The program consists of 60 credits.
Tuition per credit for the 2023-2024 academic year is $2,754.
This brings the estimated total cost to about $170,380.
NYU Stern’s part-time MBA program is located in Manhattan.
This offers plenty of networking opportunities in one of the world’s leading business hubs.
Admissions to the program are competitive.
They consider your professional achievements, academic background, and potential for leadership.
NYU Stern also provides various specializations.
These include finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
This allows you to tailor your education to your career goals.
The faculty at NYU Stern are leaders in their fields.
They bring real-world experience into the classroom, enriching your learning experience.
NYU Stern is consistently ranked among the top business schools.
This recognition reflects the quality of education you can expect to receive.
The school also offers various resources and support services.
These include career counseling, networking events, and access to prestigious alumni.
This helps you advance in your career while earning your degree.
The flexible schedule, experienced faculty, and strong reputation make NYU Stern’s part-time MBA program a great choice for working professionals.
The Manhattan location enhances the program’s appeal, providing opportunities for personal and professional growth.
4) University of Michigan Ross
The University of Michigan Ross is a top choice for part-time MBA programs.
The Ross School of Business has a strong reputation for its action-based learning approach.
This means you get to work on real projects that make a difference.
The Weekend MBA program at Ross is ranked #6 in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report in 2024.
Ross has consistently remained in the top 10 since 2012 in this category.
Ross provides a flexible schedule that accommodates working professionals.
The Weekend MBA allows you to maintain your job while pursuing your degree.
This flexibility is attractive to many students.
The program includes the Multidisciplinary Action Projects (MAP), where you work with businesses on real-world challenges.
This hands-on experience sets Ross apart from other programs.
The Ross part-time MBA program has a diverse student body.
For example, the Weekend MBA Class of 2023 included 22% women and 32% international students.
These diverse perspectives enrich the learning experience.
The program also offers strong networking opportunities.
You will connect with peers, faculty, and alumni who are leaders in their fields.
This network can be invaluable for your career advancement.
Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Ross provides a vibrant community.
The environment is ideal for both academic and extracurricular activities.
You will find plenty of opportunities to get involved and grow.
5) University of California Berkeley Haas
The University of California Berkeley Haas offers a well-regarded part-time MBA program.
It is designed for professionals who wish to continue working while earning their degree.
You can attend classes in the evenings or on weekends.
This flexibility lets you balance your work, studies, and personal life effectively.
The part-time MBA program at Berkeley Haas is rooted in rigorous academics.
You will work through the same challenging curriculum as full-time students.
Students in this program come from various industries.
This diversity fosters a rich learning environment with a broad range of perspectives.
You will benefit from Berkeley Haas’s strong reputation.
The school is consistently ranked among the top business schools in the world.
Additionally, the program keeps up with industry trends.
For instance, you can learn about digital and IoT strategy from experts in the field.
If you prefer not commuting every week, the new flexible format might be a good fit.
This format offers the same comprehensive MBA experience with fewer trips to campus.
The program’s structure emphasizes practical application.
This means you can apply what you learn in the classroom directly to your job.
Participating in this program also integrates you into the Haas community.
This offers networking opportunities with peers and alumni.
Explore more about the part-time MBA program at Berkeley Haas.
6) University of Southern California Marshall
The University of Southern California Marshall School of Business offers a highly ranked part-time MBA program.
It is designed for working professionals seeking to advance their careers while maintaining their full-time jobs.
This program is flexible, allowing you to balance work, life, and study.
USC Marshall’s part-time MBA program, known as MBA.PM, ranks No. 8 out of 269 in Part-time MBA programs.
It provides you with the opportunity to enhance your business fundamentals and leadership skills through a variety of elective courses.
The program typically spans three years (33 months) and involves in-person classes on two weekday evenings.
There’s also a hybrid option, which includes in-person classes on Saturdays.
This schedule is perfect if you are a fully employed, early-career professional.
One of the unique aspects of USC Marshall’s part-time MBA is its focus on global business leadership.
You will have the chance to understand business dynamics on a global stage, preparing you for leadership roles in international contexts.
USC Marshall also supports your professional growth through its comprehensive resources.
The school offers career services, networking events, and mentorship programs.
These resources help you to connect with industry leaders and alumni who can support your career goals.
The admissions office for USC Marshall is located at Popovich Hall, Suite 308, Los Angeles, CA.
If you need more information or have specific questions, you can contact them at MBA Admissions through email or phone.
By joining USC Marshall’s part-time MBA program, you will be part of a prestigious institution that emphasizes both academic excellence and professional development.
7) Georgetown University McDonough
Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business offers a highly regarded part-time MBA program.
It is ranked 9th in the U.S. News & World Report’s list of best part-time MBA programs.
The Flex MBA program at McDonough is designed to balance the demands of full-time work and personal life.
You can choose to complete the program in either an in-person or online format, making it flexible to fit your needs.
McDonough’s part-time MBA program benefits from being located in Washington, D.C. This offers unique networking opportunities with business and policy leaders.
The program prepares students for global leadership roles, tapping into Georgetown’s extensive network.
The part-time MBA at Georgetown is also known for its strong emphasis on careers in international business.
It ranks 3rd in this category, providing a robust platform for students aiming to work in global markets.
8) University of Texas at Austin McCombs
The University of Texas at Austin McCombs School of Business is a highly respected institution.
McCombs is ranked No. 16 out of 124 in Best Business Schools and No. 7 out of 269 in Part-time MBA programs.
It focuses on building strong analytical skills and leadership qualities.
McCombs offers flexible scheduling to accommodate working professionals.
You can choose evening or weekend classes to fit your work schedule.
Innovation plays a key role in the curriculum.
Whether it’s developing a groundbreaking app or driving community initiatives, your education is aimed at making real-world impacts.
In addition to convenience, McCombs provides extensive resources.
From career services to networking opportunities, you have ample support to advance your career.
Learn more about the McCombs School of Business to see how this program can benefit you.
9) Carnegie Mellon University Tepper
Carnegie Mellon University’s Tepper School of Business offers a highly respected part-time MBA program.
The Online Hybrid MBA format provides flexibility, allowing you to balance work, life, and studies.
This program ensures you receive the same degree as full-time students.
The Part-Time Accelerated MBA is a new option.
It targets those with an undergraduate business degree.
This pathway shortens the time needed to complete the MBA and reduces tuition costs.
Tepper’s programs are known for their rigorous coursework, delivered by experienced faculty.
You will learn critical skills that prepare you to lead in your field.
The STEM-designated MBA adds value by integrating technology and analytics into the curriculum.
The Tepper School of Business is also highly ranked.
It placed #2 in Fortune’s Best Online MBA Programs and ranks #16 among U.S. business schools according to U.S. News.
These accolades speak to the quality and impact of its programs.
You can count on Carnegie Mellon University Tepper to provide a valuable education that fits your busy schedule.
The part-time options are designed to offer the same rigorous training and networking opportunities as their full-time counterparts.
10) University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Kenan-Flagler
The University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Kenan-Flagler offers a highly-regarded business program.
It’s known for combining rigorous academics with real-world learning experiences.
The part-time MBA program is designed to accommodate working professionals.
You can balance your job and studies, making it easier to advance your career without taking a break from work.
You’ll be taught by renowned faculty who are leaders in their fields.
The program also emphasizes leadership development, teamwork, and collaboration.
UNC Kenan-Flagler’s values-driven culture is focused on preparing you to lead in a global business environment.
You’ll be part of a collaborative and supportive community.
The curriculum is customizable to fit your career goals.
Whether you’re looking to specialize in finance, marketing, or any other business discipline, you can tailor your coursework to meet your needs.
Networking is a key component of the program.
You’ll have access to a strong network of over 44,000 alumni, providing valuable connections for your career.
For more information about the program and its offerings, you can visit the UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School.
UNC Kenan-Flagler also offers an online MBA for those who need even more flexibility.
You can learn more about this option at their Online MBA Program.
Choosing UNC Kenan-Flagler means you’re investing in a program that is consistently ranked among the best.
It provides the skills and connections needed to thrive in the business world.
Benefits of Part-Time MBA Programs
Part-time MBA programs offer significant advantages, including flexibility for working professionals, the ability to maintain a balanced lifestyle, and valuable networking opportunities.
Flexibility for Working Professionals
One of the biggest benefits of part-time MBA programs is the flexibility they provide.
You can balance your work and studies by taking classes in the evenings or weekends.
This scheduling allows you to continue gaining work experience while advancing your education.
Part-time programs often offer a variety of courses, enabling you to tailor your learning to your career goals and needs.
This flexible approach makes it easier to apply what you learn in real-time at your job.
Maintaining Work-Life Balance
Part-time MBA programs help you maintain a healthy work-life balance.
With classes scheduled outside of traditional work hours, you can continue meeting job responsibilities and spending time with family and friends.
This balance reduces stress and burnout, making it easier to manage multiple commitments effectively.
Many programs understand the demands on working professionals and offer resources like online courses and academic advising to support you.
Networking Opportunities
Networking is another significant benefit of part-time MBA programs.
You will be studying alongside other professionals who bring diverse experiences and perspectives.
This interaction can lead to valuable connections that help in your career advancements.
Part-time students often stay engaged in their industries, which means networking happens both in the classroom and at work.
Some schools also host networking events, giving you additional opportunities to meet industry leaders and alumni.
Engaging with peers helps you build a strong professional network that can provide support and open doors to new opportunities.
Criteria for Choosing a Part-Time MBA
When selecting a part-time MBA program, there are several critical factors to consider.
These include the program’s accreditation status, the duration it takes to complete, and the content and structure of the curriculum.
Accreditation
Accreditation is vital for ensuring the quality of an MBA program.
Look for programs accredited by leading organizations like the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
Accreditation signals that the school meets high standards in faculty qualifications, student learning outcomes, and continuous improvement processes.
It also influences your degree’s acceptance in the job market, as employers prefer graduates from accredited programs.
Additionally, accredited programs often have better resources and networking opportunities.
Program Duration
Understanding how long it takes to complete a part-time MBA is crucial.
Most programs range from 2 to 5 years.
Flexible pacing is essential, especially if you are balancing work and personal responsibilities.
Some schools offer accelerated options that allow you to finish more quickly, while others provide a slower pace to accommodate busy working professionals.
Make sure the program aligns with your career goals and schedule.
Also, consider the required workload each semester to understand how it will fit into your life.
Curriculum
The curriculum of a part-time MBA program should align with your career goals and interests.
Look for programs that offer a broad range of electives and specializations in areas such as finance, marketing, or consulting.
Evaluate the balance between core courses and electives to ensure comprehensive business education.
Programs that emphasize experiential learning can provide practical skills through internships, projects, or case studies.
Review the faculty’s qualifications and expertise to ensure they bring valuable insights and real-world experience to their teaching.
Impact on Career Advancement
A part-time MBA program can be a game-changer for your career.
These programs offer opportunities to increase your earning potential and enhance your skills.
Increased Earning Potential
A part-time MBA can significantly boost your income.
Many graduates report higher salaries after completing their degree.
For example, professionals with an MBA often earn more than their peers without one.
This is due to the advanced knowledge and credentials that an MBA provides.
Several part-time programs are structured to fit around your work schedule.
Schools like The University of Chicago Booth School of Business offer evening and weekend classes.
This flexibility allows you to continue earning while you study, making it easier to manage costs and see a quicker return on investment.
Skill Enhancement
Part-time MBA programs are designed to improve your skill set.
The U.S. News & World Report recognizes top schools that focus on practical skills.
These programs cover areas like leadership, strategy, and finance, which are essential for career advancement.
You will have the chance to work on real-world projects and case studies.
This hands-on experience can make you more effective in your current job.
Additionally, the network you build with classmates and professors can provide valuable insights and career opportunities.
Investing in a part-time MBA program enhances both your earnings and skill set, providing a solid foundation for career growth.