93 percent of MBA alumni reported that they would still pursue a graduate degree again, given what they know now and the value they’ve seen.
In today’s competitive business environment, your bachelor’s degree might not be enough to set you apart from the competition for high-level management roles. Although a bachelor’s degree used to be the educational standard, employers are increasingly looking for candidates that have gone above and beyond to continue their education, earning a master’s level degree or higher.
Employers know that MBA graduates bring a fresh perspective to existing organizational practices. From problem-solving skills to strong leadership abilities, MBA graduates are able to take control, improve bottom lines and reconfigure dated processes.
Research shows that earning your MBA is ultimately worth the investment. According to a recent Alumni Perspectives Survey from the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), 93 percent of MBA alumni reported that they would still pursue a graduate degree again, given what they know now and the value they’ve seen as a result of furthering their education.
Here are five powerful reasons to consider earning your MBA:
1. Networking
Your MBA program is filled with students who, like you, are ambitious, driven and committed to continuing their education and furthering their careers. As an MBA student, you have the opportunity to meet and network with people from a wide range of industries and professional backgrounds. Not only does this help expand your perspective of the business world, you can also make connections that prove valuable for your career. Who knows? You might even find the co-founder for the new business operation that you launch right out of school.
2. Earning potential
By earning a graduate degree, you could increase your lifetime earning potential. GMAC found that, on average, MBA alumni earn a higher cumulative base salary than those who did not achieve a graduate business education. While it’s important that you consider the cost of enrolling in graduate school, keep in mind that receiving your MBA could offer important long-term financial and career benefits.
3. Leadership skills
MBA programs are designed to help you develop the transformative leadership, management and problem-solving skills that employers are looking for today. Employers cite soft skills, such as communication and critical thinking, as essential traits of a good manager. Developing these skills before you graduate will be tremendously beneficial to your post-graduate employment options and career success.
4. Real-world training
From immersive courses to career-focused training and skill development, an MBA program helps you gain the experience and the knowledge you need to find solutions to complex business problems. It’s this kind of exposure that will set you apart from the competition.
5. Specialized knowledge
Some universities offer industry-specific or specialized MBA programs in areas such as human resources, accounting and finance, project management and more, allowing you to gain additional relevant experience and position yourself for niche roles within your specialty of interest.
Earning your MBA will help you achieve personal, educational and professional goals. Not to mention, you’ll make lifelong friends and critical business connections that help you hit the ground running.
