What Is a Full-Time MBA Program?
Learn about the courses and specializations available in a full-time Master of Business Administration (MBA) program. Find out what skills you'll gain and how long it takes to complete this program.
Full-Time MBA Program Overview
Full-time MBA programs are designed to help graduate students develop business skills to enable them to move into the real-world business arena. It typically takes two years to complete a full-time MBA program, though some programs condense the schedule into one year. In these programs, you'll study the role of technology in business, the competitive forces in the business world, and business skills, including business leadership. You will also network with business contacts.
Important Facts About MBA Programs
Possible Careers | Financial Analyst, Sales Manager, Business Consultant |
Work Environment | Office Setting |
Median Salary (2021) | $91,580 (for financial analysts)* |
Job Outlook (2021-2031) | 9% growth (for financial analysts)* |
Source:*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Courses and Curriculum
MBA programs include core classes in business, management and ethics, and many MBA programs include an internship requirement for graduation. A full-time MBA program requires students to enroll in at least nine credits per semester, which is about three classes. Core courses for a full-time MBA program include:
- Business decision-making
- Economics
- Global economy
- Organizational behavior
- Leadership
- Business responsibility and ethics
MBA Specializations
After completing the core courses, you can tailor your studies to focus on one specialty area that will help you in your career. Many programs also require an internship at this stage so students can acquire practical skills. Some universities partner with businesses to provide individual internship or mentorship opportunities or collaborative business initiatives. Some of the most common specialties in MBA programs include:
- Finance
- Entrepreneurship
- Management
- Marketing
- International business