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All three management programs i.e. part-time vs online vs EMBA have their unique advantages and disadvantages. All three programs are suited for candidates with different priorities and career goals. Candidates can choose the one that is best applicable to them after considering factors such as personal preference, work experience, long-term career goals, etc. The three are distinct yet unique in their way of curriculum and program focus. This article provides an in-depth comparison of the three management programs based on different aspects along with the pros and cons of each MBA program.
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Part-time MBA is designed primarily for working professionals who want to take up an MBA without having to leave their regular job. Online MBA focuses mainly on candidates that can somehow not take up the regular MBA program due to one or the other reason. Meanwhile, the executive MBA program is specifically for candidates with significant work experience (at least three to five years) within a particular work domain.
The key differences between part-time vs online vs EMBA are listed in the table given below.
Aspect | Part-Time MBA | Online MBA | Executive MBA |
Target Audience | Typically for early to mid-career professionals seeking to advance their skills and | For candidates unable to take up the regular MBA program. | Designed for mid to senior-level executives with substantial work experience. |
Curriculum Focus | The program curriculum mainly focuses on a broad range of core business management topics. Includes foundational courses. | The program focuses on core management concepts along with building leadership skills. | Focuses on strategic leadership, advanced management skills, and real-world applications. |
Class Schedule | Classes are usually held during weekends. Some have the alternative of evening classes. | Classes are held via the online medium like Zoom classes, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, etc. | The program is regular but the frequency of classes remains low. |
Duration | 18-24 Months | 18-24 Months | 18-24 Months |
Cost | They generally have a lower program fee compared to an executive MBA. The average fee for a part-time MBA is approximately Rs. 6 Lakhs. | An online MBA costs generally less than a part-time and executive MBA. | Higher program fee. The average program fee for an executive MBA is approximately Rs. 8-10 Lakhs. |
Peer Group | Peers may have different levels of experience and backgrounds. | The opportunity and access to the core peer group might not be available. | Peer group typically consists of experienced professionals from respective domains. |
Networking Opportunities | Offers networking opportunities with a diverse group of peers. | Low networking opportunities. | Provides strong networking opportunities with other executives. |
Learning Environment | May have a more traditional classroom experience with varied teaching methods. | Online learning environments might not be as effective as other alternatives. | Often emphasizes collaborative learning, case studies, and peer-to-peer interaction. |
The pros and cons of part-time vs online vs EMBA are mentioned below.
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Choosing between the three will eventually boil down to two things i.e. work experience and availability. If a candidate has enough work experience and availability they can go for EMBA. If a candidate has little work experience and wants to continue working while pursuing an MBA they can go for a part-time MBA. For candidates not being able to pursue a regular MBA or want to do an MBA from the comfort of their home can go for online MBA.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Executive MBA and part-time MBA programs cater to professionals balancing full-time with their current education. However, whereas Executive MBA programs are designed for professionals with 10 to 15 years of experience, part-time management programs tend for students with less experience.
Both online MBA and executive MBA have their unique features. If a candidate has enough work experience and availability they can go for an Executive MBA. Candidates not being able to pursue a regular MBA or want to do an MBA from the comfort of their home can go for an online MBA.
The value of a part-time MBA depends on factors like college, specialization, schedule, program curriculum, etc. Overall a part-time MBA can be of significant value to working professionals who want to pursue an MBA without having to leave their regular jobs.
The value of a part-time MBA depends on factors like college, specialization, schedule, program curriculum, etc. Overall a part-time MBA can be of significant value to working professionals who want to pursue an MBA without having to leave their regular jobs.
The cost for an executive MBA can vary from Rs. 2 lakhs to as high as Rs. 30 lakhs depending on the college and the program structure. There are a variety of colleges that offer the executive MBA program for a low price.
On Question asked by student community
Hello,
Thank you for your question!
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CAT scores are valid in many private universities including KL University, but always check the year’s admission notification.
CAT vs other exams: CAT is toughest (IIMs + top B-schools), while MAT/CMAT/ATMA are relatively easier and accepted by many mid-level private universities.
Hello it will clear your doubt!
Hello Aspirant,
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Hello Kapish
You can find the last 5 year questions of DILR for CAT at Careers360 website. Moreover, you can find the previous year papers of all the subjects i.e. DILR, Quants and VARC. I am attaching the link through which you would be able to access the same.
Here's the link:
CAT Previous Year Papers by CAREERS360
Sample paper of DILR:
CAT Sample Paper (DILR) by CAREERS360
Thank You!!!
Hello Divya,
Yes, candidates with an online BBA can sit for both CAT and GMAT provided that the degree is from a recognized (UGC approved in India or accredited abroad) institution. The leading B-schools in both India and abroad do not look down upon online degrees as long as the degree is from a recognized body, they will mostly be looking at your test scores, academic performance, work experience, and profile holistically. What matters is the legitimacy of the institution and how you showcase your abilities, not whether your degree was obtained online or in-person.
Yes, someone with an online BBA can sit for both CAT and GMAT, provided the degree is from a UGC recognized university. Top B-schools in India (like IIMs) and abroad generally accept online degrees if they are valid, and you won’t be marked down just because it’s online. What matters more is your entrance exam score, academic record, work experience, and overall profile.
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