MBA course duration: How long does it take to get an MBA?

In 2025, employability among Indian business administration graduates had risen to approximately 78% from 47% in 2021, according to Statista. This is obviously a significant increase in employability after completing an MBA. Thus, it becomes important to recognise the significance of the MBA on how you plan your educational cycle and align it to your aspirations at the workplace. 

This article provides an insight into the different types of MBA courses one can pursue and the various MBA course durations you can consider for your plans.

Also read: Different types of MBA courses – Gain valuable skills for the business world

Duration of standard MBA course

The traditional MBA duration spans 2 years and is split into 4 semesters. During this period, students are able to gain an all-around knowledge of business studies by undertaking core units in their first year and then choosing from several options in their second year. 

The course provides a comprehensive understanding of business concepts and offers numerous internship opportunities for hands-on experience. A two-year duration is ideal for those seeking practical exposure or a deeper exploration of various business principles.

Major characteristics:

• Duration: 2 years
• Structure: 4 semesters
• Focus: A comprehensive business education with specialization options

Accelerated MBA degrees programs

For professionals who need to accelerate their careers, there are also shorter versions of this program, referred to as Accelerated MBA programs, usually completed within a year.

Major characteristics:

• Duration: 1 year
• Structure: Intensive coursework with minimal breaks
• Focus: Rapid acquisition of business skills

Part-time MBA programs

Balancing work and study can be achieved when one enrolls in a part-time MBA program, which takes between 2.5 to 3 years. They are suitable for individuals who are employed since they provide classes that take place in the evening or weekend, allowing the employees to continue with their careers uninterrupted even as they further their knowledge/skills in their respective professions without necessarily quitting their jobs. 

However, people must manage time well if they want to combine their jobs in the formal employment sector and academia, which gives them flexibility, but requires time management skills to not hire other people who can help do it.

Major characteristics:

• Duration: 2.5 to 3 years
• Structure: Evening or weekend classes
• Focus: Balancing work experience with academic advancement

You may also like: 7 Interesting Aspects of an online MBA course

EMBA (Executive MBA) programs

These are tailor-made programs aimed at serving senior executives responsible for managerial duties at enterprises. This MBA course duration often runs for about 1 to 2 years, during which time it can be conducted during weekends or in parts. In essence, the idea is to improve executive decision-making capabilities and ensure that these individuals can apply their learning right after it’s been acquired during most programs.

Major characteristics:

• Duration: 1 to 2 years
• Structure: Weekend or modular classes
• Focus: Advanced leadership & strategic management

Online MBA Programs

In many cases, people who cannot attend traditional MBAs have either settled for or opted to pursue an EMBA because of its flexibility. The EMBA comes in 2 years like a regular one, but there is also a fast track system available at other institutions. Online MBAs can suit individuals with diverse needs because they are self-paced.

Major characteristics:

• Duration: 2 years (with possible acceleration)
• Structure: Fully online coursework
• Focus: Flexibility and self-paced learning

Online MBA offered at Online Manipal

Constituent universities of the Manipal Education Group such as Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ), Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Sikkim Manipal University (SMU) offer UGC-entitled full-time online MBA programs.

The major components of these programs:

1. Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) – This online MBA program offers 13 concentrations including Digital Marketing, Operations & Supply Chain Management, etc. Conducted in 4 semesters and covers a period of 2 years. 

2. Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) – This institution provides a comprehensive online MBA program for employees with 10 market-needed specialization areas, such as data science analytics. For 2 years, students are made leaders without leaving their job. 

3. Sikkim Manipal University (SMU) – Online MBA program from SMU is a dual specialization in fields like Finance, HRM, Operations & Supply Chain Management and Marketing. This form of MBA’s duration ranges up to 2 years, such that it covers diverse aspects of business studies among others. 

The bottom line

To choose a program that fits your career goals and individual situation, you need to comprehend all of the numerous MBA lengths. Irrespective of whether you pick either the usual 2-year course or the fast track ones, the main thing is to select one that goes hand in hand with your occupational dreams. 

Online Manipal’s diverse MBA offerings provide flexible and comprehensive options to suit different needs. Explore their programs to embark on a transformative educational journey.

Checkout different MBA specializations