Regardless of the program you are in, earning an MBA degree full time normally takes a maximum of two years and a minimum of one year. Presently, business schools offer two types of full time MBA program – the one-year program and the two-year program. The one-year program, although less costly, is considered more rigorous and intensive because of its short duration. It is also the most common MBA program in the United Kingdom. This type of program normally puts more emphasis on the core business strategies and skills. The two-year program is the most common type in the United States with courses and internship spread out in a couple of years. This is more expensive but offers specialization in many areas. The Executive MBA program, meant for executives and those holding managerial posts, also follows the two-year schedule.

Recent reports say there had been slight increases in enrollment for specialized one-year MBA programs. This is partly due to demand in the corporate world. The advantage of the one-year program is that it does not overlap with the curriculum of the undergraduate business. Students opting to take this shorter version are advised to enroll soon after earning their bachelor’s degree. In this way, they will be able to meet all requirements in the core business course. It is also seen that the one-year MBA degree will cause the use of more technology-based information media such as the CD-ROM and online services and will require a lesser number of faculty.

MBA graduates from both the traditional two-year and the one-year programs show no major difference in their work performance. This is evident in the way corporations have been neutral in hiring graduates from the two types of full time MBA programs. Experts confirm there is no published proof that those who completed two-year MBA programs do better then their counterparts in the one-year program.

Apart from the full time schedule, schools also offer a part time program which would take around four to five years to complete. This is the most flexible program for busy working professionals who cannot commit to a full time schedule and who wish to continue working while studying. The courses are spread out throughout the year and may be difficult to include internship.

The distance learning MBA falls under the part time program. Classes in this type of program are held off campus hence, it requires more self-discipline among students and some courses that need teamwork may take a lot of time. This is also more flexible in that you can study in any location, no matter how remote it may be, and even if you move from time to time during the course of your study.