Accelerated MBA programs, also referred to as One Year MBA Programs, are full-time MBA programs that generally take between 12 to 15 months to complete. The term “accelerated” refers to the fact that students are able to complete these programs faster than a traditional full-time MBA, which typically requires a two year commitment. While accelerated programs are a relatively new phenomenon here in the U.S., most European MBA programs have traditionally followed this format.

Accelerated MBA Programs have steadily gained popularity in the U.S. due to the growing reluctance of applicants to take two years out of the workforce. Tuition costs for accelerated MBA programs – another major consideration for MBA applicants – are often a fraction of the cost of a two year program. Currently, over 90 accredited business schools around the world offer a one-year MBA program with many schools expected to add the option in the future.

The curriculum in Accelerated MBA Programs typically covers the same material as a traditional MBA, albeit at a quicker pace. Some programs require students to have taken some business courses prior to enrolling in the program to ensure that they will be able to keep pace and manage the heavy workload. Most accelerated programs typically do not offer students an opportunity to do an internship.

The information below shows the student profile of people currently enrolled in Accelerated MBA programs, both in the U.S. and abroad:

Source: WSJ Survey

Recruiters and hiring managers typically view the accelerated MBA degree in the same light as a “regular” two year degree, so anyone looking for a quicker – and cheaper – way to give their career a boost should definitely consider this option.