Which MBA should I choose?

With several options available, it's important to research and understand which type of MBA best suits your needs

Finding the right MBA programme depends on your interests, aspirations, personal circumstances, and experience. Some programmes have strong alumni networks in specific industries, while others offer the flexibility to help you balance your commitments.

General MBAs

You'll need at least three years of relevant work experience before applying for a general MBA. The programme takes 12 months if studied full time, while part-time options can take up to 24 months.

A general MBA provides a well-rounded foundation in business essentials. You'll gain knowledge and develop leadership and management skills that are highly sought after by employers.

The programme typically starts with core modules covering business strategy, marketing, and leadership skills in the first half. Optional modules allow you to customise your course based on your interests and can include:

• accounting
• advanced marketing topics
• business strategy
• economics
• entrepreneurship.

Finally, you'll put your learnings into practice through a project such as a group boardroom presentation.

Search for a general MBA.

Executive MBAs

These courses are designed for those with more experience in business, and those looking to fast-track their career. Executive MBA (EMBA) students often have around 12 years of experience, while general MBA students tend to have closer to six years.

EMBA programmes cater to busy schedules and classes are typically in the evenings and on weekends, allowing you to continue working full time while studying. This flexibility does mean it will take longer to gain your MBA.

For example, Bayes Business School in London offers an evening EMBA programme that takes 24 months to complete, compared to their 12-month full-time MBA.

Search for an EMBA.

Specialist MBAs

These programmes are for professionals who already have a specific business area in mind and recognise that a general MBA wouldn't be as beneficial to them.

In addition to gaining core business competencies, you'll develop the expertise to lead and manage businesses in specialised fields, such as:

• finance
• healthcare
• international business
• marketing.

 Search for a specialist MBA.

Distance learning MBAs

Online MBAs offer the flexibility of a virtual learning environment, eliminating the need for travel and relocation. This significantly reduces the costs associated with traditional in-person study.

The course content closely aligns with a general MBA and is also treated as an equal qualification.

Expect to dedicate around 20 hours weekly to participating in remote lectures, seminars, and group sessions. With regular tutor support and online resources available, these programmes cater to busy professionals by offering evening and weekend classes.

Browse distance learning MBAs.

MBA accreditation

Accreditation is based on multiple factors, including quality of course content, staff qualifications, learning resources, and student outcomes. If you're considering an institution, it can be reassuring to see an endorsement from organisations such as:

• Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
• Association of MBAs (AMBA)
• EFMD Quality Improvement System

There are just 129 triple-accredited institutions worldwide.

How do I choose the right course?

You need to consider:

• Cost of the course - Have you considered how you'll fund your MBA.
• Course schedule - Do you have time to attend all the lectures, and put aside study time? Does this work with your job?
• Employment prospects - Will the MBA have an impact on your career? Is it required to progress in your position, or at least helpful to achieve it?
• University reputation - Is it a good standard? What are past students saying about it? What was the support after graduation like for them?
• Tutors - What are their backgrounds in? Are they industry experts?
• Course content - Do the modules include content that interests you? Does the programme meet your expectations?
• Entry requirements - Do you possess the grades and experience needed for the course?

Find out more

• Discover the best MBA programmes in the UK.
• Explore what you can earn as an MBA graduate.