Online MBA programs are highly popular in the US, attracting large numbers of working professionals and those seeking career growth without sacrificing their current jobs. Some of the most significant advantages of these programs include their accessibility, flexibility to learn at your own pace, and affordable fees. Online MBAs help avoid location and other barriers, enabling students to access quality management education without any hassles.
28% of MBA students in the US were studying in online MBA programs in 2023-24 as well, testifying to the popularity of these courses. Yet, knowing the timelines is essential. Wondering how long does it take to get an MBA online? Here are some insights that will help.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online MBA in the US
Here is an overview of the timelines for getting an MBA degree online.
| Type of Program | Usual Duration | Schedule Type |
| Full-Time MBA | 2 Years | Full-time and structured |
| Part-Time MBA | 3-5 Years | Flexible and evening/weekend learning |
| Accelerated MBA | 12-18 Months | Fast-paced and intensive learning |
| Executive MBA | 2 Years | Evening/weekend classes |
Full-Time Online MBA
A full-time online master’s degree in business administration usually takes about 1.5-2 years (18-24 months) on average. Some programs may have flexible options or longer timeframes that help learners balance them with professional commitments. They cover business disciplines like strategy and finance, operations, marketing, and human resources.
Part-Time Online MBA
You can easily get your MBA online by enrolling in a part-time program. It typically takes 3-5 years to complete and is more flexible for working professionals. You can learn at your own pace, with extensions to complete the program.
Accelerated Online MBA
Accelerated MBA programs are meant to be completed within a shorter duration than regular online MBA courses. There are one-year online MBA courses in this category, with average timeframes of 12 to 18 months.
Executive Online MBA
Executive online MBA courses may require 1-2 years on average. Working professionals can complete these programs while maintaining their careers. Some programs have shorter durations, while some may go up to two years. Many of these courses are tailored to the specific learning abilities and needs of professionals.
Factors Affecting MBA Duration
Some of the factors affecting MBA duration include:
- Location.
- Institution.
- Program Type.
- Learning/Grasping Abilities of Students.
- Coursework and Curricula.
Also Read: Top MBA Jobs in the US with Strong Growth Prospects
Tips to Complete Your Online MBA Efficiently
While all of these are some of the easiest online MBA programs to get into, you should focus on completing your course efficiently. Here are some tips that may help.
- Manage Your Time: Schedule fixed hours for lectures, coursework, and self-study. Prioritize tasks weekly and use digital tools and reminders to stay on top of deadlines.
- Study Smart: Apply the Pomodoro technique—25-minute focused sessions with short breaks—to boost concentration and productivity.
- Leverage Academic Support and Resources: Connect regularly with instructors and peers. Join study groups and make full use of online libraries and learning resources.
- Track Your Progress: Break the course into smaller goals, monitor your progress, and adjust your plan as needed. Celebrate small wins to stay motivated.
Also Read: How to Ace Your MBA Interview in the US
Earn Your Online MBA Faster with upGrad’s Flexible Programs
upGrad offers flexible and convenient online MBA courses that enable working professionals to study at their own pace. You can complete your degree in just 15-24 months without quality compromises. Benefit from personalized guidance and industry-ready curricula, along with accessing programs from leading global universities. You can also choose from on-campus immersion opportunities.
Here are some courses worth considering:
- MBA from O.P. Jindal Global University
- MBA from Paris School of Business
- Master of Business Administration GGU
- MBA from Liverpool Business School
- Advanced General Management Program
FAQs on How Long Does It Take to Earn an Online MBA in US
Q: How long does it typically take to finish an online MBA?
Ans: Online MBA programs usually take 1-2 years to complete, although part-time courses may be extended up to 3-5 years, depending on your needs.
Q: Is it possible to complete an online MBA in more than three years?
Ans: Yes, many online MBA programs offer flexible timelines, allowing you to complete the degree in 3 to 5 years, mainly through part-time options tailored to your schedule and needs.
Q: What happens if I need to take a break from the program?
Ans: You can take a break after checking with the program supervisor and understanding the policies regarding breaks, withdrawals, or leaves. Many programs offer some flexibility in this case, although the specific policies may vary.
Q: Do online MBAs offer career support during the program?
Many online MBA programs offer career support and mentoring to help learners accelerate their professional prospects after completion.
Q: How much time per week should I dedicate to an online MBA?
You should plan to dedicate around 15–20 hours per week to your online MBA. This includes time for coursework, live sessions, assignments, and project work.
