If you have already decided to learn the nuances of business, you will want to choose the management program which best fits your career goals, experience, and the amount of time you want to invest. But selecting an MBA program is not as carefree as rummaging for the best candy in a pick-n-mix. Today, there is an impressive global selection of MBA program options available, not just in terms of curriculum and electives but also location, length, delivery and intensity. Something, in short, to suit everybody. So, to make your selection of best candy (MBA program) more delightful, I am listing out a variety of MBA programs, which can cater to a range of needs.
The Full-Time MBA Program
The full time is pretty much what it says on the lid. Participants of the full-time MBA program either leave or shelve their jobs, for between 10 and 24 months to take the full-time MBA study plunge. Two program subtypes fall under the full-time umbrella. They are:
- The Two-Year MBA: The two -year MBA program is the most sought-after MBA program among the management aspirants. This program does not require the aspirants to have work experience, and the selection is based on their scores in the management exams like CAT, XAT, IIFT etc. This program provides an opportunity for summer internship midway through the program. Participants of this two-year MBA program tend to have more opportunities to explore program electives, useful for career changers. Almost all the B-Schools in India offered this program.
- The One-Year/ Executive MBA: A more intensive, condensed option, better suited to those who have a clearer idea of their desired outcomes. The one-year programmes need applicants to have a minimum of two to three year’s work experience and the selection process considers the overall profile of the candidates. This program has a considerable focus on real-life projects and simulations. Overall this program is more suitable for professionals who have significant work experience and are looking for accelerated career growth.
The Part-Time MBA
The Part-Time MBA program is very much suitable for working professionals having a minimum of 3 to 5 years of work experience, who want to learn business practices without taking a break from their work. Majorly the classes of Part-Time MBA are held in the evening and sometimes during a weekend. Traditionally these part-time MBA programs would require you to be present as a person for classes. Some weekend programs are residential, which gives the students an opportunity to get the experience of a full-time program. The method of delivery and schedule of the program vary from institute to institute. Its curriculum and pedagogy are very much similar to that of full-time Executive MBA programs. Top B-Schools like IIMs, FMS, University of Delhi etc. offer Part-Time MBA Programs.
Online MBA
The Online MBA Program is a good alternative for those students who desire flexibility, in terms of geography and scheduling. Not to fear, though: an online MBA offers the same extensive and rigorous curriculum as its counterpart, i.e. on-campus MBA program. Instructors simply tailor the whole coursework to online platforms. These courses with the help of technology allow students to be location independent and permits them to complete the course at his/her own pace, although some are structured in the cohort format. On average, an online MBA program involves two years of study while some programs allow up to six years for degree completion. Cohort learning programs in accelerated formats can also give the flexibility to complete the degree in a shorter duration. Many institutes in India like Symbiosis, Narsee Monjee etc. provide good online MBA programs.
Blended MBA
The blended MBA can be understood of as a blend of part-time MBA and the online MBA, combining sessions of online study with face-to-face discussions. Like the part-time MBA and online MBA, these programs are mainly intended for working professionals who don’t want to quit their job to study. One of the oldest and most famous IIM, i.e. IIM Calcutta offers Blended MBA program, where learning is through 80% online sessions and 20% through campus visits. These programs often include online/offline assessments through exams for all modules, several face to face workshops per semester, plus online study through electronics forums.
Global/International MBA
The global/international MBA isn't a separate official classification; however, it's an undeniably famous designation for many MBA programs. These programs tend to attract a more significant number of international students and faculty than regular management programs and furthermore don’t limit their discussions to any one country’s business policies and practices. This program provides the opportunity to live and study in different business schools during their course of study; for example, a student enrolled in SPJAIN's Global MBA program, lives and studies in Mumbai, Dubai, Singapore and Sydney during his/her 12-month full-time MBA. These programs provide insights into many innovative areas of business management and help students to appreciate, accept and adapt to different cultures and business environments.
In conclusion, I want to say that to embark on a successful career, you will have to enrol for an MBA program offered by top-notch business schools and state-run universities. Understandably, selecting the best MBA course in India can prove cumbersome, but with adequate research, you can find the suitable MBA program which will not only impact your time of study but also your future career.