What's the Difference Between a Part-Time MBA and a Full-Time MBA?

With more MBA formats available than ever, choosing how you pursue your degree can feel just as consequential as choosing where. 

Both the Part-Time MBA and the Full-Time MBA deliver the same credential, the same rigorous curriculum and the same STEM designation—but the path, pace and experience look quite different depending on where you are in your career.

There are several key differences to keep in mind when deciding between a Part-Time and Full-Time MBA:

Location

Part-Time MBA: UC Davis offers two part-time locations, each with its own strategic pull.

• The Sacramento Part-Time MBA, located at the newly developed Aggie Square, has driven regional economic growth for 30 years while preparing innovative, collaborative leaders and entrepreneurs across healthcare, government, technology and energy sectors.
• The Bay Area Part-Time MBA program, located at Bishop Ranch, sits in proximity to more than 550 of the world's top companies, ranging from Fortune 500 giants to bold startups across finance, tech, biotech, health care and transportation.

Full-Time MBA: The Davis campus puts students at the center of business and policy, with proximity to the Bay Area, Sacramento and Napa—sustainably minded and globally connected through the UC system. 

Schedule and Format

Part-Time MBA: The Part-Time MBA takes 24 to 36 months to complete and follows a hybrid format with in-person sessions in Sacramento and San Ramon. Students can choose a fast-track option to finish in two years or a standard track completed in three years, all while continuing to work full-time. In-person classes typically meet every other Saturday, complemented by virtual evening sessions.

Full-Time MBA: The Full-Time MBA is a two-year, in-person program at the Davis campus that begins in late summer. The Full-Time MBA is designed for students who want to step away from work to fully immerse themselves in business education and accelerate into new industries or leadership tracks.

Work Experience Requirements

Part-Time MBA: The Part-Time MBA program is designed for professionals with typically six to eight years of work experience, with a minimum of two years required. Students bring this experience into the classroom, strengthening peer learning and enabling immediate real-world application from day one.

Full-Time MBA: The Full-Time MBA program typically seeks candidates with five to six years of experience, also with a minimum of two years required. Many students enter the Full-Time program looking to make a significant career pivot or accelerate into leadership roles. 

Length of Program

Part-Time MBA: Depending on the track you choose, the part-time path spans two to three years—designed so you never have to choose between your degree and your career.

Full-Time MBA: The Full-Time program is a focused two-year commitment. The condensed timeline means faster entry (or re-entry) into the workforce at a more senior level.

Career Paths

Part-Time MBA: Part-Time students see an immediate return on their investment. The program positions you to excel in both arenas—earning your MBA while continuing to grow at work. Promotions, expanded responsibilities and salary growth can begin well before graduation day. 

Full-Time MBA: The Full-Time format is well suited for those pursuing a major career change, a competitive summer internship, or entry into industries that actively recruit from full-time cohorts. The dedicated, immersive structure also creates more room for networking, clubs and the full campus experience.

What’s the Best Fit for You?

Both the Part-Time MBA and Full-Time MBA provide the same rigorous UC Davis STEM-designated business education and access to a strong professional network.

The decision comes down to timing, career stage and how you want to engage with the experience.

• The Part-Time MBA is best suited for professionals who want to grow without stepping away from their career.
• The Full-Time MBA is best suited for those ready to fully immerse, pivot careers or accelerate into new opportunities.

The UC Davis MBA

• Ranked among the top public MBA programs, the UC Davis Graduate School of Management MBA prepares students to lead in innovation-driven industries.
• Whether you choose the Full-Time MBA in Davis or the Part-Time MBA in Sacramento or San Ramon, you will join a collaborative, STEM-designated program focused on leadership, analytics and real-world impact.
• GMAT and GRE are optional and applications are reviewed holistically.
• Competitive merit scholarships available to qualified candidates.

We’re here to help you decide on the right program. Take the next step toward your goals and meet with an admissions representative today.