12 MBA Program Formats and Their Time Commitments

10. Dual-Degree MBA Programs (Varies) | Time commitment: longer total program, intense weekly hours when both degrees overlap | Best for combined career tracks

Dual-degree options such as MD/MBA, JD/MBA, or MS/MBA combine two graduate-level curricula so students earn complementary credentials. Total time varies by pairing—some schools offer integrated tracks that reduce total credits, while others require sequential study that lengthens time in school. Weekly time commitment can be high when both programs’ courses overlap, especially for combinations like MD/MBA that include clinical rotations and core business courses. For certain pairings, schools offer combined plans that shave months off doing degrees separately; check program literature for exact credit-sharing and sequencing. Dual degrees make sense when a single degree won’t fully qualify you for a target role, for instance combining clinical work with leadership skills. Because these paths are demanding, prospective students should plan for sustained high workload periods and confirm financial aid or fellowship eligibility for combined programs.