Thinking of Earning an MBA While Working Full-Time?

If you’re eyeing the next rung on your career ladder, an MBA can give you the skills to get there. It can also boost your future income. According to the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) Corporate Recruiters Survey 2026 Report, MBA graduates in the United States were expected to earn more than other business degree types, with an estimated median starting salary of $120,000.¹

For many professionals, though, quitting work to go back to school isn’t an option. You may not be able to afford a temporary pay cut, especially if you have a family or a mortgage. Timing matters, too. If you enjoy your current role or have long-term goals at your company, you may not want to step away.

That doesn’t mean you need to put your academic goals on hold. Flexible online programs let students complete an MBA while working full-time, but you’ll need excellent time management. This blog post covers the benefits of earning an MBA while employed, along with practical tips to juggle everything.

The Reality of Getting an MBA While Working

Can you do an MBA while working? Absolutely. Many students balance coursework with 9-to-5 jobs.

Of course, getting an MBA in any situation is challenging. Between study sessions and group projects, students often don’t have much free time.² Add a 40-hour workweek on top of that, and your to-do list can quickly balloon.

Commitment is key. Strong discipline will help you prioritize and get everything done, even when you have competing deadlines. For example, you may need to skim a textbook while waiting in the school pickup line, or get up early to finish a paper before heading to the office. With consistency, even short study sessions add up.

For many people, balancing both requires a mindset shift. Instead of focusing on one area at a time, you’ll need to get used to juggling work, school, family and other responsibilities.

How To Do an MBA With a Job: Time Management Strategies

Good time management will help you meet all your responsibilities without burning out, especially if you’re balancing coursework with a job.

Start by blocking off dedicated study time throughout the week. Some people prefer long study sessions, but it’s not always possible to reserve an entire Saturday. Instead, look for smaller blocks of time you can use more regularly. For example, you might study for one hour each evening and work on larger projects during the weekends.

Look for small opportunities to study outside those blocks. If your professors record lectures, you can listen during your commute. Flashcard apps can also help you review your notes while brushing your teeth or waiting for the coffee to brew.

Setting boundaries is equally important. Keep your family and managers updated about your academics, and don’t take on too much. If you have a major group project due on Monday, you may need to let your boss know you can’t stay late on Friday. That’s less likely to be an issue if they’ve known about your deadline for weeks.

The Advantages of an Online MBA While Working Full Time 

For busy professionals pursuing an MBA, driving to campus every week isn’t practical. An online MBA program lets you earn a degree on your time rather than rearranging your work schedule. These programs usually offer asynchronous classes, making them easier to fit into your day. If you have to take a client out to dinner, for instance, you can watch the lecture another night.

You can also immediately start applying what you learn in your current workplace. Suppose you take a course on Artificial Intelligence for Business Leaders that covers agentic AI. The next day, you might experiment with using it to automate your email responses. This hands-on learning provides an immediate return on investment (ROI).

Unmatched Flexibility and Convenience

Flexibility is one of the main benefits of choosing an online MBA while working full-time. Asynchronous coursework lets you study at any time and from any location. You might post on a discussion board while traveling for work, or message your group members during your lunch break.

This convenient format also helps you adjust to unexpected responsibilities. If your manager needs help with an urgent project or your child gets sick, you don’t have to worry about missing a live lecture. Just catch up on the content the next day instead.

Expanding Your Professional Network

Online programs often attract people from diverse backgrounds and fields. At William & Mary, Online MBA cohorts have historically represented over 100 undergraduate universities and include people across all career stages.

Joining an online program lets you connect with people you might not meet otherwise without relocating. For instance, you might learn about a niche career while collaborating with someone who works across the country. Or you could meet senior professionals who share anecdotes and career advice you won’t typically hear in a classroom. As your network grows, so do your opportunities.

Securing Employer Support for an MBA While Working Full Time

Getting an MBA while working is easier when your employer is on board. However, some managers may feel concerned that a degree will distract you or hurt your productivity.

You’ll have a better shot at winning them over by preparing a few talking points ahead of time. Start by framing your continuing education as a benefit for the entire company. Highlight specific skills you’ll gain, such as data analysis and communication, and discuss how you plan to apply them at work.

Sharing your study plans can also alleviate any concerns. Talk about how you’ll balance your commitments, and ask them to support you with flexible working hours.

Ask about tuition reimbursement, too. Many companies offer partial or total reimbursement for employees who meet specific criteria, such as maintaining a 3.0 GPA.

Advance Your Career With an Online MBA From William & Mary

It’s possible to earn an MBA with a job, but it takes careful planning and support from your employer. Start early by scheduling regular study time and asking for flexibility at work.

Level up your skills with the William & Mary Online MBA. The rigorous curriculum is taught by experienced faculty with years of industry experience. You’ll study advanced subjects like Business Analytics, Business Law, Product Management & New Product Development and Real Estate Investments. Students usually complete one asynchronous course at a time for flexible yet deep learning.

The Online MBA offers nine specializations, including Corporate Finance and Marketing Innovation. These niches let you expand your knowledge with practical skills you can bring work the next day.

Build a strong foundation for whatever comes next. Apply today or speak to an admissions outreach advisor.