The news is filled with the ups and downs of the business world. Some of the biggest names are hiring, while others are experiencing massive layoffs. Thus, if you want to compete in a job market this volatile, you must have an edge over the competition.
That edge might be an MBA. According to the Graduate Management Admissions Council (GMAC) 2022 survey, 92 percent of corporate recruiters state they will be hiring newly minted MBAs this year. Starting salaries eclipse those offered to bachelor’s graduates by anywhere from 22 to 40 percent.
Are you ready to pursue an MBA?
Depending on your career goals, all signs might be pointing to getting an MBA. Yet before you start looking for schools, ask yourself: Is this something I’m ready to pursue?
Seeking an MBA is a big commitment, both in time and money. Many programs also require you to have business experience, so it might be something to research before applying to programs.
Yes, an MBA can help you climb the corporate ladder. It’s required in many industries if you desire to move into leadership roles. This can also put you in a highly competitive position. Are you ready to work in a demanding career where overtime is part of the culture?
Working toward an MBA can be a rewarding experience – if it’s the right path for you. And thanks to technology, it’s easier and more accessible than ever before to find a program that fits your lifestyle.
The top online MBA schools are …
MBA programs vary in format, curricula, and experience. Online MBA schools may seem more affordable than traditional education, but they can still take a bite out of your wallet. If you’re interested in pursuing an MBA, take the time to investigate which program is right for you.
According to the latest US News and World Report rankings, the top online MBA schools include:
- Indiana University at Bloomington (tie)
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (tie)
- University of Southern California
- University of Florida
- Carnegie Mellon University (tie)
- University of Washington (tie)
- Arizona State University
- University of Kansas
- Rochester Institute of Technology
- University of Arizona
- University of Wisconsin MBA Consortium
What can an MBA do for you?
Even within an MBA program, you can dive into specifics. MBA programs explore industries like healthcare, manufacturing, technology, and government. They can also increase specialization by focusing on entrepreneurship, sports management, or marketing.
As with any advanced degree, an MBA program is designed to cultivate critical thinking and analytical skills. They give you a broad exposure to experiences you might need in a future job. You’ll advance your communication skills and become better at working with people. This is about clarity and conciseness at all levels.
What can you expect from an MBA program?
While MBA programs vary in content, they all have core objectives that remain somewhat consistent. The sole purpose is to move learners into leaders. They build a core of business skills centered around finance, accounting, management, and human resources. From there, you can often move into specific fields, depending on your goals. These can include areas like healthcare or supply chain management.
MBA programs include 35-40 credit hours of coursework. It takes two years to complete the courses for a full-time student. Likewise, students in accelerated programs can finish in 18 months.
How long will it take to pay off a degree?
One of the biggest factors for many candidates seeking advanced degrees is cost and payoff potential. Pursuing an MBA gives you a better chance at finding high-paying jobs and advancing up the corporate ladder. It’s a delicate balance of investing in education now for more rewards later.
Moreover, there are opportunities in many areas if you’re willing to pursue them. The 2022 GMAC survey shows that bonuses are common for new hires with MBAs, with an average of $10,500.
Many employers are also tackling the cost of higher education. Some 32 percent of recruiters state they are offering student loan payment assistance as a part of the benefits package.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
While an MBA isn’t for everybody, it can be just the resource you need to get the job you’ve been dreaming of. While it’s a big time commitment now, the rewards can far outweigh the costs today.
Where do you see yourself in ten years? How do you see your life playing out? If career advancement is vital to that pursuit, then now may be the perfect time to pursue an MBA.
You don’t have to move for a top-notch MBA degree or change your life considerably. With great choices in top MBA schools waiting for you online, all you have to do is say “yes” to which one works the best for you.