When looking into MBA programs, one might consider looking into a Professional MBA. As you start to compare all of the types of Master of Business Administration programs that you can choose from, you will find that each option varies in its own special way. A Professional MBA program is designed for a different type of student at a different stage in their career than a traditional MBA or an Executive MBA program. If you are a working professional and you are ready to advance your degree, read on and learn about the Professional MBA program.

Who Is Right for a Professional MBA Program?

Professional MBA programs are typically part-time programs that are designed for younger working professionals who have some work experience in business. The program is designed to help these fairly inexperienced professionals further develop their management and technical skills in business. An Executive MBA program is more suitable for professionals who have been working in business for several years. These programs will help executives learn knowledge on core areas of business while focusing on developing management and executive leadership skills. The average years of experience in a Professional MBA program is five years, whereas the average in an EMBA program is 13 years, according to the Global Post.

What Are the Admissions Requirements Of Most Professional Programs?

Another major difference between a Professional and Executive MBA program is the admissions criteria set by the school. The admissions requirements of professional programs tend to focus more on your academic achievements and your academic ability as an undergrad student and EMBA programs are more focused on professional work experience. If your goal is to gain acceptance into a competitive PMBA program, you need to have a high GMAT score, a good GPA and show potential. If you believe you are better suited for an EMBA program, you do not have to take the GMAT, because test scores do not affect the admissions decision. If you are fresh out of undergraduate school, you are much more likely to be accepted to a PMBA program.

How Will Your Schedule Vary?

If you are an executive or a manager, you cannot just drop all of your responsibilities and go to school. Professional MBA students typically have fewer responsibilities at work than executives and this is why classes are generally held on weekday evenings. You will generally attend school on a part-time basis because of the nature of the program, but there may be an option to switch to an accelerated program if your schedule opens up. Executive MBA students will usually study all day long on weekends, and sometimes the weekends are rotating.

Related Resource: Accelerated MBA

If you are looking for the opportunity to network with like-minded professionals while you develop technical or management skills, it is time to consider an MBA program. You need to compare all of the details of each type of program, and then consider the admissions requirements. After you have done all of the necessary research, you can settle on the best option to take your career to the next level. Do not forget to research tuition costs, funding options and accreditation status. Now that you know what a Professional MBA is, you can make an educated decision prior to applications.