Pursuing an MBA is a significant commitment, but not everyone has the time to dedicate to a full-time program That’s where a part-time MBA comes in. Designed for working professionals, this option offers the flexibility to balance your career, personal life, and education without having to put anything on hold.
But before that let us understand what’s the difference between; Part-Time and Full-Time MBA Programs
Key Differences: Part-Time vs. Full-Time MBA Programs
- Duration:
- Full-Time: 1-2 years.
- Part-Time: 2-6 years.
- Schedule:
- Full-Time: Weekdays, structured.
- Part-Time: Evenings and weekends, flexible.
- Career Impact:
- Full-Time: Ideal for career changers; includes internships.
- Part-Time: Best for career advancement in current field; no internships.
- Financials:
- Full-Time: High tuition, lost salary.
- Part-Time: Lower tuition, maintain salary; possible employer support.
- Networking & Resources:
- Full-Time: More immersive with extensive networking.
- Part-Time: Less immersive, limited networking.
Part-Time MBA Program Is Best Suited For:
- Experienced Professionals: Ideal for those looking to advance in their current field.
- Financial Constraints: Beneficial if you need to maintain your income while studying.
- Family and Community Commitments: Offers flexibility for managing personal responsibilities.
If you’ve decided that a part-time MBA program is the right path for you, the next step is choosing the right school. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to decide which program best fits your goals.
Below is a list of top-ranked part-time MBA programs to help guide your decision. [According to U.S. News]
Nation’s Top-Ranked Part-Time MBA Programs
| University | U.S. News Ranking |
| University of Chicago (Booth) | #1 Part-Time MBA |
| University of California, Berkeley (Haas) | #2 Part-Time MBA |
| Northwestern University (Kellogg) | #3 Part-Time MBA |
| New York University (Stern) | #4 Part-Time MBA |
| University of California, Los Angeles (Anderson) | #5 Part-Time MBA |
| University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (Ross) | #6 Part-Time MBA |
| University of Texas at Austin (McCombs) | #7 Part-Time MBA |
| University of Southern California (Marshall) | #8 Part-Time MBA |
| Georgetown University (McDonough) | #9 Part-Time MBA |
| Ohio State University (Fisher) | #10 (tie) Part-Time MBA |
| University of Maryland, College Park (Smith) | #10 (tie) Part-Time MBA |
| University of Washington (Foster) | #10 (tie) Part-Time MBA |
| Indiana University (Kelley) | #13 (tie) Part-Time MBA |
| University of Texas at Dallas (Jindal) | #13 (tie) Part-Time MBA |
| Rice University (Jones) | #15 (tie) Part-Time MBA |
| University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (Carlson) | #15 (tie) Part-Time MBA |
| Georgia Institute of Technology (Scheller) | #17 (tie) Part-Time MBA |
| University of Utah (Eccles) | #17 (tie) Part-Time MBA |
| University of South Carolina (Moore) | #19 Part-Time MBA |
| Emory University (Goizueta) | #20 Part-Time MBA |
So, why do people choose a part-time MBA? It’s all about balance. You get to keep your job, continue with your personal commitments, and still work towards a prestigious degree that can open doors for your career.
The Kellogg Part-Time MBA is one such program that allows you to keep moving forward in your career while earning a prestigious degree.
Kellogg offers two options: the Evening MBA and the Kellogg Weekend MBA.
If you’re in or near Chicago, the Evening MBA could be great for you. Classes are held on weeknights from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., so you can go to work during the day and attend class in the evening. If you’re not close by or prefer to keep your weeknights free, the Weekend MBA is an excellent choice. You’ll only need to come to campus on Saturdays, which might be easier if you’re commuting.
Both programs offer some remote classes, but you’ll need to be there in person for certain courses to graduate. The best part? You can tailor the program to your pace. If you want to take it slow, you can finish in about 2 to 2.5 years. But if you’ve already done some coursework in the past 10 years, you might be able to finish in just one year!
In short, the Kellogg Part-Time MBA is all about giving you the tools, knowledge, and network to achieve your career goals—all while maintaining your work-life balance. Whether you opt for the Evening or Weekend program, you’ll find the flexibility and support you need to succeed.
Everything You Need to Know About the Kellogg Part-Time MBA Program
Kellogg’s Evening & Weekend MBA program allows students to complete their degree in approximately 2.5 years. Students can choose to attend classes on Saturdays or one evening per week. The program offers flexibility with over 100 electives and core classes, and students can opt for either an accelerated or traditional pace. This makes it a great option for working professionals looking to balance their career with advanced education.
Northwestern University (Kellogg) Part-Time MBA Program Overview:
- Location: Evanston, IL
- U.S. News Ranking: #3 in Best Business Schools
- Acceptance Rate: 33.3%
- Average GMAT Score: 680
- Average Years of Work Experience: 6
- Program Duration: 1–5 years
- Full Program Tuition Cost: $122,016 (accelerated) or $161,376 (traditional)
Kellogg Part-Time MBA Class Profile [Evening & Weekend MBA]
| Category | Details |
| Age/Experience | Average Age: 29Average Work Experience: 6 years |
| Diversity | Women: 35%U.S. Minority: 32%International Students: 11% |
| Undergraduate Degrees | Business/Economics: 49%STEM: 38%Humanities: 14% |
| Geography | Out-of-State Commuters: 69% |
| Jobs by Industry | Financial Services: 18%Health/BioTech: 13%Tech/Communications: 13%Consulting: 12%Manufacturing: 9%Consumer Products: 8%Energy: 5%Marketing & Media: 2%Government/Education/Nonprofit: 2%Other: 17% |
*Data reflects the profile of the 2021 Evening & Weekend MBA class entrants. For current information, keep checking: Kellogg Evening & Weekend MBA Program.
What Makes the Kellogg Part-Time MBA Program Stand Out?
Apart from being ranked 3rd in the nation, the Kellogg Part-Time MBA program offers several standout features:
Kellogg Leadership Journey – This unique program helps you grow as a leader through three stages: Orientation, a mid-program Retreat, and a final Capstone event. You’ll start by reflecting on your leadership style, reconnect with peers halfway through, and plan your future leadership goals before graduating.
Hands-On Learning – Get practical experience by working on real-world projects, participating in lab courses with on-site visits, and even starting your own projects. This way, you can apply what you learn in class to real business challenges.
Global Opportunities – Explore business practices in over 70 countries through Global Initiatives, Exchange Programs, and Global Lab experiences. These opportunities give you valuable international insights and broaden your global perspective.
Flexible Schedule – Choose between evening or weekend classes, or mix both to fit your lifestyle. Remote learning options are available each quarter, making it easier to balance your studies with work and personal commitments.
Supportive Community – Join a collaborative and encouraging group of professionals. Kellogg’s culture promotes learning and networking, helping you build connections that last long after you graduate.
Key Highlights of the Kellogg Part-Time MBA Program
| Kellogg Part-Time MBA Program Features | Details |
| Program Options | Evening MBA, Weekend MBA |
| Class Schedule | – Evening: Weeknights (6 p.m. – 9 p.m.), classes held once a week- Weekend: Saturdays, with the option to add Friday afternoon/evening classes for more flexibility |
| Location | Wieboldt Hall, Downtown Chicago |
| Flexible Learning | Remote course options available each quarter |
| Completion Time | – Accelerated: 1-4 years- Traditional: 1.25-5 years |
| Curriculum Customization | More than 100 electives available |
| Test Requirements | GMAT, GRE, EA, MCAT, LSAT (Optional for eligible candidates with a GPA ≥ 3.4 from certain backgrounds) |
| Community Culture | Supportive, driven professionals committed to learning inside and outside the classroom |
| Career Support | Lifetime career support through the Kellogg Leadership Journey |
Kellogg Part-Time MBA Application
When applying to Kellogg’s Evening & Weekend MBA Program, it’s important to review the application requirements carefully and note any relevant deadlines. Here’s a rundown of the latest essay prompts and the interview process for the Kellogg Part-Time MBA program.
Kellogg Part-Time MBA Essays
To apply for Kellogg’s part-time program, you’ll need to submit two essays. These essays help the Admissions Committee get a deeper understanding of who you are. Here are the current prompts:
- Essay 1: Kellogg aims to educate, equip, and inspire leaders who make a lasting impact. Describe a recent instance where you demonstrated leadership and created value. What challenges did you face, and what did you learn from the experience? (Approximately 450 words)
- Essay 2: Your values shape your life and work. What are the core values that guide you, and how have they influenced your actions? (Approximately 450 words)
- Additional Information: Use this section to address any unusual aspects of your application, such as gaps in work history, choice of recommenders, or inconsistencies in academic performance.
Kellogg Part-Time MBA Interview
As part of the admission process for the MBA Kellogg Part-Time program, you’ll need to complete an interview. This interview can be conducted by alumni, admissions officers, or occasionally current students. Kellogg follows an open interview policy, so all applicants are eligible to schedule an interview without waiting for a specific invitation. Interviews are currently held virtually, and you can arrange yours by contacting the admissions office.
Kellogg Weekend MBA Cost at a Glance
Tuition rates are generally updated each fall quarter, and the following costs are estimated based on the 2024-2025 tuition rates for students starting during or after Summer 2021.
We hope this overview has provided you with a clear understanding of part-time MBA programs and why Kellogg’s option might be a great fit for you. With its flexible scheduling, high-ranking program, and customizable academic experience, Kellogg’s Evening & Weekend MBA is designed for working professionals seeking to advance their careers while managing their current commitments.
If you have any more questions or need additional information about MBA admissions, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].
Does Kellogg offer part-time MBA?
Yes, Kellogg School of Management offers a part-time MBA program. This program is designed for professionals who wish to continue working while pursuing their degree. It provides flexibility to balance work, study, and personal commitments, making it an ideal option for those who cannot leave their job full-time.
Is GMAT required for part-time MBA?
No, the GMAT is not required for Kellogg’s part-time MBA program. The admissions process is test-optional, meaning applicants can choose whether or not to submit a GMAT or GRE score. The part-time MBA can be completed in various formats—100% online, online hybrid, or on-campus—over 2-3 years, offering flexibility to fit different schedules and needs.
