What is a Mini MBA?

The facts:

·Mini-MBA programs provide training in business fundamentals such as finance, accounting, marketing, management, and information technology

·These programs are typically non-credit bearing

·They are normally categorized as executive education or training

·They are available online or face-to-face from major universities and other organizations

·They cost anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000

·They take anywhere from three-days to three months to complete

Mini-MBA programs are growing in popularity as students and employers look to increase business acumen without the cost or time commitment of a full-blown MBA program.

Are these programs legit?

You’re not going to find an accredited “body of knowledge” for the mini-MBA. Steer clear from any institution claiming their program is accredited by AACSB or any other similar body—it’s false advertising.

That being said, many AACSB-accredited business schools are legitimate players in the mini-MBA game. Major research universities with prestigious business schools—Dartmouth, Columbia, and UNC for starters—have offerings. (Note: many of these more prestigious schools are careful not to brand their programs with the “mini-MBA” moniker.)

Yeah, what about the stigma of a “mini” degree?

Most academics reject the use of the “MBA” abbreviation for such programs. And perhaps they should—the MBA designation is reserved for those who have earned the academic credential. “Mini-MBA,” unfortunately, has caught on as a marketing term. As mentioned above, most major universities have avoided using the term. (And it may behoove your personal brand to skip over a program with a “mini” title, especially if you are in an industry inundated with actual MBA’s.)

But make no mistake: regardless of title, these programs aim to deliver the core MBA curriculum in a condensed timeframe.

So, is a program worth my time?

Most likely… All else being equal, completion of a mini-MBA program will set you apart from the rest of the crowd in the eyes of an employer. Recruiters desire candidates with a solid business foundation. Just when it comes time to update your resume, be careful to clearly include your training as just that: training, not the real thing. Make no mistake: misrepresentation of your mini-MBA will cost you that promotion or new job.