Are you wondering how long it takes to complete an MBA?
If you're a business professional interested in advancing your career, pursuing an MBA (Master of Business Administration) can be a great option. An MBA can offer many personal and professional benefits, such as an increased salary, greater expertise in business, and making you more attractive to future employers and corporate recruiters.
While the journey to an MBA may seem like a big commitment, understanding the duration, cost, and key steps involved can help you navigate the path with confidence.
How long is an MBA?
The duration of an MBA programme can vary depending on whether you plan to study full or part-time.
A full-time MBA programme typically takes around one to two years to complete.
-
These courses often involve intensive, immersive learning, allowing you to focus solely on your studies.
Part-time MBA courses are designed for business professionals who plan to balance their studies with their current job.
-
These programmes can take anywhere from 18 months to five years to complete, with the reduced time commitment allowing MBA students to continue to work full-time while pursuing a degree.
Ultimately, the duration of an MBA programme depends on your individual circumstances and goals. It's important to consider your personal commitments, work-life balance, and career aspirations when deciding whether a full or part-time study is right for you.
At Walbrook, you can study for an online MBA full-time over 14 months, or part-time over two years.
Ready to unleash your business potential and achieve your career goals?
Discover our 100% online MBA courses with flexible payment options to make investing in your future easier.
-
Start any month, study from anywhere
-
Study full-time over 14 months, or
-
Study part-time over two years.
How much does an MBA cost?
The total cost of an MBA degree can vary significantly depending on the degree provider, location, and length of the course. On average, MBA programs can cost anywhere from £10,000 to over £100,000. Given the wide range of tuition fee costs, it's crucial to research and compare different programmes to find one that fits your budget.
As a specialist online degree provider, with no physical campus costs, we're able to offer our online MBA for just £8,880.
Keep in mind that many MBA graduates experience career advancement and increased earning potential, which can help offset the cost over time and provide a positive return on investment. There may also be grants or student loan options available to help you finance your programme.
Additional costs
Outside of tuition fees, you'll also need to factor in any additional costs such as textbooks, materials, and accommodation. This is especially true if you're considering in-person study at higher education providers, universities or business schools.
If you're considering an online MBA, you'll typically find that all your course materials are available in your digital learning environment, reducing additional expenses such as textbooks, accommodation and travel. Students who study part-time with online degree providers or universities can also offset the cost of studying by continuing to work full-time, earning a salary alongside their studies.
How to get an MBA in 5 steps
Now that you understand the duration and cost of an MBA programme, let's explore the key steps to getting started on your journey.
1. Research your options
Begin by researching different MBA programmes to find one that aligns with your career goals, business interests, and learning style. Consider factors such as part or full-time study, curriculum, faculty, and careers support.
At this point, you should also consider whether you'll benefit most from studying in-person at university, or with an online degree provider.
2. Research entry requirements
MBAs typically have specific entry requirements, which may include a bachelor's degree, relevant prior work experience, letters of recommendation, or a personal statement.
If your chosen programme requires a written application, take the time to tailor your application to each institution you are applying to.
3. Plan your finances
Consider the cost of your chosen course and create a budget to finance your MBA education. Include your expected salary (if you will be continuing to work full or part-time), your timeline for tuition fee payments if you're self-funding (in advance, or spread out over the cost of your degree) and any additional expenses.
Make sure to also explore funding options such as grants and student loans. If you're from England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you may be eligible for a postgraduate loan from your country's government to cover the MBA cost.
4. Apply for your course
Submit your application materials and follow the admissions process outlined by the programme provider. Depending on the provider, some applicants may be asked to attend an interview, submit additional essays, or enter entrance exams.
If you choose to study online with Walbrook, all you need to do is submit an application through our online application portal and upload your eligibility documents online.
5. Start your MBA journey
Once accepted onto an MBA, take advantage of the opportunities it offers. Engage in class discussions, network with peers and tutors, and participate in work experience opportunities. Make the most of your MBA experience to enhance your skills and broaden your network.
Studying an MBA with Walbrook
Now you understand the duration, cost, and key steps involved in getting an MBA, you should be in a better place to decide your next steps.
At Walbrook, our MBA degrees are designed to prepare you for career advancement. What's more, we offer the ultimate flexibility to help you balance your studies with your life. Study from anywhere that suits you, and spread out the cost of studying by paying per module if you choose.
I am really enjoying Walbrook's MBA Innovation. The course content is engaging and easy to follow, and the lecturers are really responsive, which makes a huge difference when you’re studying online. I like that there’s pacing built in to keep you on track, but also the flexibility to fit around work, life and kids!
FAQs about getting an MBA
-
The duration of MBA programmes can vary, but full-time programmes typically take around one to two years, while other programmes can take from three years to five years to complete.
At Walbrook, you can study online full-time over 14 months, or part-time online over two years.
-
An MBA can cost anywhere from £10,000 to £100,000 or more, depending on the degree provider or university, the total tuition fees, the length of the programme, and additional expenses.
At Walbrook, our online MBA degree is just £8,880, with the option to spread out your tuition fees monthly or annually or benefit from reductions if you pay in full.
When considering the cost, consider the potential positive ROI of an MBA course. Many MBA graduates experience median salary growth. But it's important to remember that salary increases can vary depending on factors such as your industry, job role, location, and performance.
-
Grants and bursaries may be available from various sources, including universities and higher education providers.
If you're a UK student, you can also apply for a postgraduate master's loan, based on the country you live in before you begin your degree.
-
While studying, engage in class discussions (in-person or online), network with your peers, and take advantage of the careers support offered by your MBA provider or university.
If you're currently working with a business, you can also speak to your managers to see if you can apply your developing leadership and management skills to your current role.
-
Unlike traditional MBA programmes that can take two to five years to complete, accelerated MBA programmes can be completed in as little as nine months to two years. They are often suited for prospective students who have a strong foundation in business concepts and can set aside a dedicated time commitment to level up quickly.
An accelerated MBA degree can be a great option if you're ready to immerse yourself in an intensive learning experience. At Walbrook, our online full-time MBA programme can be completed over just 14 months. If you are looking for a less intensive study experience, you can study part-time over two-years.
-
An Executive MBA (EMBA) is a specialised programme, designed with a focus on high-level decision-making, developing MBA graduates with strategic leadership skills that can lead companies to success.
A global MBA focuses on international business from a global perspective. It typically includes modules that advance your knowledge of different markets, cultures, and business practices worldwide.
Related articles
-
What is an MBA?
-
Is an MBA worth it? ROI, benefits, career impact
-
Career opportunities in business management