I was thinking about what different names part-time MBA programs go by. The most obvious generic name describing the essense of these programs is obviously plain and simple, no thrills – part-time MBA. But, of course, the Business Schools would want to differentiate themselves from each other and to emphasize distinctive features of part-time programs vs full-time programs at the same school.
The distinction is, no doubt, a marketing tool to target a specific group of people who otherwise would not be able or considering to pursue the MBA degree. That’s why instead of just seeing “part-time MBA program” in the offerings of any business schools you are more likely to run into derivatives of that term with various levels of creativity and fanciness.
Here is just the list of the titles I ran into which stand for part-time MBA programs in various Business Schools:
- Part-time MBA – boring!!!
- Evening MBA – gives you an idea that you don’t have to give up on your day job
- Weekend MBA – same as above, mostly used in reference to Accelerated programs
- Part-time Evening MBA – plain vanilla with a sprinkle of utility
- Flex(ible) MBA – flex appeal
- Professional MBA - adds some flavor and somewhat boosts applicant’s self-esteem
- MBA Lite (according to WSJ)
- Accelerated MBA – part-time on steroids
Another derivative used in describing part-time programs:
- MBA for Working Professionals – usually attached to part-time title to give some kind of re-assurance and validation to prospective students
And the Grand Prize for creativity goes to the writing staff of Businessweek. In their recent review/ranking of part-time MBA programs they came up with the latest and freshest (the question still remains if it is the bestest) nickname – ”Spare-time MBA”.
As you can see the names are different, but as the former president used to say: ‘Make no mistake’, they are all the same titles for good old ‘part-time MBA’. In order to see the difference in those programs you need to go beyond the name and research specific programs of interest in depth on your own.
The research should include the materials available on the web, visiting campus, attending information sessions, talking to current students, and whatever else you can employ in order to get beyond the marketing ploys, and find the perfect match for your personal situation.
{ 1 comment }
