Flexibility is key to success with MBAs.

An MBA is widely recognized as a ticket to a leadership role in business.

But how can working adults already juggling career and family demands make time for yet another degree? Flexibility is the key.

The good news is that more and more universities, such as Woodbury University, recognize this trend and have innovative programs that make an MBA more accessible. Many employers also are willing to make some accommodations rather than lose a valued employee--even in today's shrinking job market.

Before deciding whether to get an MBA, Woodbury University advises working adults to:

Realistically assess your goals and your situation. Why do you want to earn an MBA? Assess the value of an MBA both from a personal and professional standpoint. Think about how much time you can set aside to attend classes and study. How much flexibility is there in your schedule? Try to enlist your family and employer as supporters, while also assuring them that you can make time for important commitments.

Research the career that you want. Do the people in the positions that you are interested in all have MBAs? Is an MBA a necessity? Talk to colleagues and acquaintances who have MBAs about their experiences. Remember, too, that continuing education can be rewarding even if you don't have an immediate plan. The knowledge and skills you learn may open up new opportunities that you never even considered.

Visit a variety of schools to find an MBA program that is right for you. Most schools offer free seminars that will give you a feel for the MBA program and whether it offers a supportive adult learning environment. You can also receive important background information. Also, think about location. You may not want to drive 50 miles at rush hour to get to class.

Don't be afraid to ask questions. Ask about admissions requirements, personal attention such as academic and career counseling, costs, financial aid and experience of faculty. For instance, Woodbury's MBA program relies on the expertise of both full-time professors and faculty who are practicing professionals. This provides MBA students with academic theory, real-world practicality and one-on-one networking opportunities that allows you to put what you learn in the classroom into action right away at the workplace.

Look for flexibility in course offerings. Most adults don't have the option to work and leave behind other commitments to earn an MBA. Weekend, evening and accelerated classes may help you meet your goals. Or, maybe you prefer the traditional semester structure with only one or two classes. Ask about course and schedule formats. For example, Woodbury offers an innovative accelerated MBA format that lets you earn a degree in as little as one year's time. If you want to take more time to earn your degree, you also have the option.

Find out whether the program is accredited. Accreditation is a symbol of a school's commitment to quality and will give your hard-earned degree credibility.

Information for this article was provided by Woodbury University. For information, call 818.767.0888 or toll free at 888.791.0888 or visit www.woodbury.edu.