MBA Types: Full-Time, Part-Time, Online, and More Explained

When people talk about an MBA, a graduate degree focused on business management and leadership. Also known as a Master of Business Administration, it's one of the most popular paths for professionals looking to move up or switch careers. But not all MBAs are built the same. The type you choose can change your schedule, your cost, your network, and even your job outcomes.

There are four main MBA types, distinct program formats designed for different life stages and career goals: full-time, part-time, online, and executive. A full-time MBA, a traditional two-year program for those who can step away from work is ideal if you're starting fresh or making a big career shift. It’s intense, immersive, and often includes internships. A part-time MBA, a flexible option for working professionals who want to study evenings or weekends lets you keep your job while earning the degree—usually over three to five years. Then there’s the online MBA, a fully remote program with asynchronous coursework and occasional live sessions, perfect if you’re in a remote location or need total control over your time. And if you’re already in a senior role, the executive MBA, a program designed for managers with 10+ years of experience lets you learn alongside other leaders, often with classes held on weekends or monthly intensives.

The right MBA type depends on where you are now and where you want to go. If you’re early in your career and can afford to pause work, a full-time MBA opens doors. If you’re climbing the ladder but can’t quit your job, part-time or online might be your best bet. And if you’re already leading teams, an executive MBA gives you the strategic edge without the disruption. These aren’t just different schedules—they’re different paths with different outcomes. Below, you’ll find real insights from people who’ve walked these paths: what they learned, how much it cost, and what their salaries looked like after graduation.