9 Reasons to Earn an MBA (and 5 Reasons Why it Might Not Be for You)

Published on: February 17, 2022

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) offers a number of useful benefits, making it a wise investment for manystudents in the business field. Completing an MBA program is a commitment, so before you sign up, it is important to consider both the benefits and drawbacks of working toward an MBA degree. Below is a breakdown of some of the reasons you may choose to pursue an MBA as well as some potential indications that this degree may not be right for you.

Reasons to Earn an MBA

1.    High demand for MBA graduates

There are plenty of job openings for MBA graduates, making it relatively easy for hard-working graduates to find a suitable position after completing the program. In fact, according to the 2021 Corporate Recruiters Survey, 91% of recruiters surveyed were planning to hire MBAs in 2021. In the consulting sector, the percentage of recruiters planning to hire MBAs was even higher at 95%. Although these numbers do not guarantee you a position after graduation, this high demand can make it easier for you to find a job you love.

2.    A chance to develop advanced leadership skills

Enrolling in an MBA program gives you the chance to expand and improve your leadership skills and be a better asset to any company. These programs cover a wide variety of topics, but one of the primary objectives is to help students learn to be more effective leaders. Whether you are hoping to qualify for a promotion with your current employer or want to be more competitive in the job market overall, the advanced skills you gain in an MBA degree program will help you to reach your goals.

3.    Access to an extensive business network

While you are pursuing your MBA degree, you will have the opportunity to build a wider business network. You will be able to meet other future leaders enrolled in your program as well as network with alumni already in the industry. These connections can add up quickly, making it easier for you to find the job you want and advance your career. Long after you have found the perfect position, the network you build during your MBA program can improve your effectiveness as an employee.

4.    High salary and ROI

MBA graduates earn a high salary, meaning you can get a healthy return on your investment. In fact, according to U.S. News & World Report, the average starting salary for MBA graduates in 2021 was $87,966. Salary averages vary by state, the nature of the position, and your overall experience, but you can generally expect a higher salary after earning an MBA degree. Keep in mind that a higher salary is not a guarantee, so you shouldn't pursue an MBA assuming it will automatically increase your salary upon graduation.

5.    A chance to change your career or explore new opportunities

Earning an MBA can put you on the path to changing your career or even pursuing a new field. While working toward your degree, you’ll be exposed to new ideas and opportunities. You may decide to pursue an entrepreneurial path after leaving your MBA program, or you may decide to move into almost any other industry. In general, it is best to have an idea of the path you want to take before you begin the program, but you may find that you learn about even more options while you are working on your degree.

6.    Gain a fresh, global perspective

One of the goals of an MBA program is to gain a more expansive, global perspective. The economy and the world at large are continuously changing and becoming more interconnected every day. With an MBA, you will have the knowledge and insight you need to operate in this evolving environment.

7.    Flexibility

When it comes to advanced education options, MBA programs offer significant flexibility. These programs can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis, depending on your preferences and schedule. You can also study to earn your MBA online or in person. If you choose to enroll in an online program, you will have the freedom to work through the course material at your own pace and according to your own schedule.

8.    Positive impact on your career at any age

MBA programs are not restricted to students who have recently completed an undergraduate degree. In fact, you can earn your MBA degree at any age and at any stage of your career. Whether you are new to the business world or you have been working in a field for many years, earning an MBA can have a positive impact on the trajectory of your career.

9.    Personal growth and fulfillment

Another common motivation cited by people who earn an MBA degree is a desire for personal growth and fulfillment. Earning an MBA increases your knowledge, builds your skills and gives you countless opportunities to grow as a person.

Reasons Not to Pursue an MBA

Despite the many potential benefits of an MBA, this degree is not for everyone. Below are some reasons not to earn an MBA degree.

1.    Unrealistic expectations

Having an MBA degree may make it easier to advance your career, but simply earning this degree will not guarantee you a job offer, promotion, higher salary or any other advantage. If you are viewing your MBA degree as a “golden ticket” to a particular career goal, evaluate whether this is really the best path for you.

2.    You aren't willing to work hard

Hard work is essential for success in nearly every higher-education degree program and MBA programs are no exception. If you want to get the most out of this type of program, you need to be ready to put in the effort. If you are not willing to work hard during the program, do not waste your time or money on an MBA.

3.    You don't know which direction you want to take your career

An MBA degree is highly flexible. However, that doesn't mean you should pursue this degree if you aren't sure how you want to proceed upon completion. MBA programs are best for students who have a direction they want to take their career after earning their MBA degree. It is possible you will modify your plans as you move through the program and learn new things, but you should have a general plan before you begin.

4.    You aren't all in

Earning an MBA and utilizing it to improve your career requires a high level of commitment. If you are not fully committed to the MBA program, you won't be successful. Do not enroll in an MBA program unless you are completely invested and willing to give it your all.

5.    You can't afford it

Like all higher education programs, an MBA program will have an associated tuition cost. How much an MBA degree costs will vary based on a variety of factors. However, you can expect to invest a good amount of money in this degree. If you cannot afford the cost of your MBA with savings, payment plans and/or student loans, you should not sign up for this degree program.

So, is an MBA worth it? It depends on your situation. Consider each of the issues presented here to determine whether the MBA path is right for you. For example, if you have the funds available to pay for your MBA program, you know what direction you plan to take and you are ready to invest yourself entirely in the program, the time may be right to apply. However, if you are feeling unsure or don't feel committed to pursuing another degree, an MBA program is probably not the right career move.

If you decide to move forward with the pursuit of an MBA, you can't go wrong with Husson University. This institution's MBA program is conducted entirely online, making it an easy and convenient option regardless of your schedule or location. The program requires 36 credit hours of study, and most students can finish the program within 24 months.

Courses at Husson last from seven to 14 weeks, and the MBA program is IACBE accredited. You can access course material at any time of the day or night, making it easy for you to fit the program into your life. Contact Husson University today to learn more.

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