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Options for Earning an MBA in the USA

An MBA degree gives students better knowledge of the business world.

If you are pursuing a career in business, finance or a related field, you may choose to earn a Master of Business Administration degree (MBA) in the USA.

An MBA degree — which follows a BA or BS degree — refines and diversifies your knowledge of business systems. In the competitive corporate arena, an MBA confers a distinct professional advantage.

Academic Options for an MBA

There are five different routes to obtaining an MBA in the USA, each tailored to a specific kind of student:

• Two Year - This option is common among students who have recently earned their bachelor’s degree and wish to continue their education on a regular academic calendar. Classes are held throughout the week, and traditional vacation periods are observed. The MBA is generally obtained in 18-24 months.
• Accelerated - This is like the two year program, but more intensive. A heavier course load and shorter vacation periods mean the MBA can be earned much sooner.
• Part-Time - Designed for working professionals, this option offers evening and night classes, as well as occasional weekend sessions. Students typically earn a degree in three years.
• Executive - This curriculum targets managers and those wishing to become managers. Students here generally have extensive work experience (often 10 years or more), and are familiar with business administration. The MBA is earned in two years or fewer.
• Distance Learning - This is an off-campus option that allows recent graduates and working professionals to earn an MBA degree at their convenience. Classes are conducted online, via postal mail, or through video-conferences. Time to completion varies from student to student.

When choosing which route to follow, consider your schedule, previous employment, academic experience and career goals. It’s important to challenge yourself without also feeling overwhelmed or intimidated.

How Can I Apply for an MBA in the USA? What Do I Study?

Admission requirements vary from school to school, but all will expect you to have already earned a bachelor’s degree (preferably, but not necessarily, in a business field). Many schools also request scores from the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), along with academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, writing samples and relevant work records.

Once you are admitted, think about what you want from an MBA.

Several schools allow students to specialize in areas like accounting, corporate strategy, human resources, and economics. Some schools offer even more precise specializations, e.g. Asian business or sports management.

Even if your school doesn’t offer specialization, the MBA curriculum nonetheless exposes you to all aspects of business administration. Focus areas include economics, marketing, accounting, information technology, supply chain management and international business.

Because the MBA is such a career-minded degree, it’s important to study an area that you enjoy and which also offers professional opportunities.

While earning an MBA in the USA won’t turn you into an entrepreneur, it will enhance your understanding of how business works — certainly a good start.

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