What is the real difference? Full-time vs. Part-time.

[bekkilyn]

What is the real difference between full-time and part-time programs? Other than the obvious full vs. part, of course. I'm curious because it seems it is easier for someone to get into a part-time program (at the same school) than into a full-time program, and especially for an older adult.

Let's say an older adult with some work experience wants to get an MBA and applies to a full-time program. Admissions looks at the application and sees "older adult" and "work experience" and turns the person down, but when the same person applies again to the part-time program at the very same school, this person is suddenly welcomed with open arms.

I don't know if it really happens exactly like this, but I get the impression from reading various things that if you're "too old" or have "too much work experience" then a full-time program isn't really for you.

Why? Isn't it the exact same degree? What difference does it really make whether someone takes 2 classes per semester or four, provided they have the time to do it? Are older adults somehow obligated to spend half their time at a job or chasing kids and just not morally "allowed" to take time out for school?

It's not a situation that is really going to apply to me personally, but it just seems a bit silly nonetheless and I'm just really curious about it. It actually seems kind of bizarre.

[Scottie@VeritasPrep]

Since part-time programs generally appeal to people who are satisfied with their current career path, most students also work while in the program. Therefore, the programs are usually not as intense and are stretched over a 3 - 5 year period. This makes the workload a bit more manageable.

[bekkilyn]

That would make sense for those who are still working and plan to continue to work throughout the program, but what about those who quit working to go back to school full-time? Why is that so frowned upon after a certain age?