Skip to main content
NC State Home

Choose Your MBA Format

Compare the Full-Time MBA and Online MBA formats side by side to find the option that fits your schedule, experience level and career goals.

Flexible MBA Program Formats

Complete your MBA on campus in a full-time format or online from anywhere. Use the comparison below to evaluate each format and choose the option that fits your goals.

PLEASE NOTE: You can complete the Online MBA program either primarily online or with optional in-person elements. Online students can add or remove in-person elements from their plan of work at any time.

Full-Time MBA
Professional Online MBA
—————
Primarily Online
Online With In-Person Elements
Program highlights
Face-to-face classes provide direct interaction with instructors and peers, allowing for real-time discussions and feedback.
Flexible and convenient.
Can be completed anytime, anywhere.
Online classes can be combined with in-person delivery, study abroad, leadership program and other in-person engagements.
Length
21 months
21 months – 6 years (avg. 3 years)
Entry term
August
August and January
Credit hours
54
40
Class delivery
Daytime in-person classes (first and second semesters) and a mix of online and evening classes (third and fourth semesters)
Mainly online asynchronous classes + some online synchronous classes available
Option to add in-person weekend classes, hybrid classes (a mix of online and Saturdays) and evening classes
Location
NC State main campus, Raleigh
Anywhere in the world
Anywhere in the world + NC State campus in Raleigh
In-person residencies
Not required
Two three-day residencies in Raleigh are required
Career services
1:1 career coaching, mentorship programs, workshops and webinars and other services. Free lifelong career support for alumni, including coaching and resources
Study abroad opportunities
Yes
Leadership development program
McLauchlan Leadership Series
Networking and engagement
In-person classes, student events, student clubs and organizations
Virtual events, student clubs and organizations, optional in-person events
PACKed Saturdays, virtual events, student clubs and organizations, optional in-person events
Estimated tuition and fees
$55,732 (in-state)
$95,680 (out-of-state)
$57,298 (in-state)
$101,685 (out-of-state)
Scholarship and financial aid
Graduate Assistantships (30% of students on average receive GAs);
Scholarships available
Limited scholarships available

Graduate Certificates

Graduate certificates can be completed on their own or added to your MBA to build specialized skills aligned with your career goals.