How long does it take to become a consultant?

Consultants who hold entry-level positions in consulting firms can begin their careers after completing their bachelor's degree, which normally lasts four years. Those who earn graduate or MBA certificates before seeking work in consulting can take anywhere from a few months to a few more years to become consultants. It takes 7 years of professional experience to become a consultant. That's how long it takes to learn specific consulting skills, but it doesn't account for time spent on formal education.

If you include the normal education requirements to complete a college degree, it takes 10 to 12 years to become a consultant. A bachelor's degree is often a requirement for becoming a business consultant. Many business consultants also earn a Certified Management Consultant (CMC) designation.