Finding the right MBA program for you takes a great deal of research, time and energy. Many programs contain the same elements, yet others have distinctive points that make them stand out among the rest. Weighing the format of each program is of great importance because it could make the difference in your learning and your ability to succeed. There are many top MBA Programs in Washington, D.C. to consider. While each of these programs have the same benefit of a great location in Washington, D.C., there are many other features that make each stand out from each other.
Here’s a short break down of the format for each of the top MBA Programs in Washington, D.C.*
George Mason University
George Mason University School of Management offers a top quality MBA education at an affordable price. One of less than 10% of AACSB accredited business schools accredited in business and accounting, Mason’s MBA program has small class sizes and a cohort structure to optimize learning. The 48 credit hour program can be completed in as little as 18 months (traditional Mason MBA full-time program), which is within the timeframe for active military assigned to attend graduate school. Part-time MBA students can finish the coursework in as few as 23 months.
The Mason MBA degree prepares the next generation of world leaders through a rigorous, stimulating business and management curriculum based on an international perspective (required 7-10 day global residency) including a rich appreciation for other cultures and points-of-view.
Georgetown University
The accredited, rigorous, three-year program is specifically designed to support working professionals by providing the opportunity to earn a graduate business degree on a part-time basis while accelerating their careers. At Georgetown, business ethics is required. The 60 credits program in completed in a cohort structure. Students must complete a course titled Global Business Experience as part of their program where they complete consulting projects for international organizations in a number of locations, on various project topics.
George Washington University
The GW Global MBA (full-time) is comprised of 57 credit hours and divided into four modules with a summer in between. Students can complete this degree is 16-21 months. Students attend classes in a cohort. As part of the Global MBA curriculum, all first-year students participate in one of several Consulting Abroad Projects (CAPs) in emerging markets such as Ghana, Brazil, Vietnam, Serbia and Turkey. The part-time MBA is not in a cohort and students can schedule classes as their schedule permits. The part-time MBA program takes 2-5 years to complete.
American University
The full-time MBA program (54 credits) takes 21 months to complete (4 semesters). Classes are offered in the day and evening. The part-time Professional MBA is designed for working professionals seeking to advance their career and takes 27 months to complete. Classes are offered year-round, one evening per week. The Professional MBA is a 48-credit hour program completed as a cohort. Students take one course at a time. Students also take part in week-long study abroad trip during their second year.
Howard University
Howard’s 54 credit MBA program provides a customizable learning experience to suit career aspirations, while leveraging the resources of a program that offers personal focus in and out of the classroom and a tight-knit community of peers from around the world. A final capstone course is offered for the MBA in Finance. Students who enroll in the part-time program may opt to participate in the accelerated part-time program, which requires completion in 3 rather than 4 years.
Not only is it important to consider items such as GMAT scores and GPAs, but it is very important to consider other distinctive elements when researching top MBA programs in Washington, D.C., such as international residency programs that offer you an unique first-hand global experience, or a diverse student body that allows you to learn business practices and customs from your peers. Program length is an important item to consider as the sooner you complete your program, the sooner you can begin advancing your career. The format of the MBA program you choose will make the difference in your learning and future career success.
*Data obtained from U.S. News & World Report and individual university websites.
