Top Reasons to Get an MBA Degree

You would be hard-pressed to find a more universally recognized, respected, and marketable degree than a Master of Business Administration (MBA). An MBA can open doors to new opportunities in your career, equipping you to become a capable leader and decision maker. If you’re on the fence about getting an advanced business degree, consider these advantages of earning an MBA.

What Is an MBA Degree?

Master of Business Administration programs provide in-depth education on foundational business principles. In these programs, students can concentrate on the industry or career role of their choice to prepare them to take on advanced responsibilities and leadership roles in their organization.

The MBA is a graduate-level degree. Some people choose to pursue their MBA immediately after completing an undergraduate program, such as the Bachelor of Business Administration, whereas others may go back to school for their MBA after years of professional experience. In fact, one study found that the average full-time MBA student had more than four years of post-undergraduate work experience. 

You don’t have to have a business degree to pursue an MBA, which makes it a great option for career switchers. As long as you have a bachelor’s degree in any field, you can build on your professional experience with MBA coursework to prepare for the next chapter in your career.

Various factors can lead students and professionals to enroll in MBA programs. Let’s look at some of the most valuable reasons you should consider.

1. Higher Earning Potential

According to the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), an increased salary is the most popular career goal that motivates business school candidates to pursue an MBA. It makes sense to pursue an MBA if you want to qualify for a raise or a higher-paying position; professionals with an MBA tend to earn higher salaries than those with only a bachelor's degree. According to a 2023 survey by GMAC, employers planned to offer new hires with MBAs a base starting salary of $125,000 on average, compared to $75,000 for those with only a bachelor’s degree. The higher earning potential an MBA delivers makes it well worth the financial investment. 

2. Career Advancement

If you want to be entrusted with more advanced responsibilities at work or qualify for a management or executive position, an MBA is an excellent credential to add to your resume. Especially when paired with industry experience, an MBA program prepares professionals to be experts and leaders in their organizations. An MBA can also make you a desirable candidate if you want to be hired at a new company. In 2022, 91 percent of employers across all industries reported they had hired MBA graduates.

3. Marketable Skill Set

Concentrations allow you to tailor your program to the industry or role you’re most interested in so you’ll be well prepared to enter or advance in that field. For example, you may pair your core MBA curriculum with a concentration on marketing, data analytics, or logistics management, making your degree even more marketable in your chosen career path. 

However, the skills and knowledge you gain in an MBA program are useful across a range of contexts, regardless of your chosen concentration. All MBA programs provide a well-rounded education, imparting fundamental business principles and transferable skills that will serve you well in whatever role you find yourself in. For example, you’ll learn to:

• Think strategically.
• Solve problems creatively.
• Lead with confidence.
• Encourage business success.

4. Practical Experience

High-quality MBA programs not only teach students business theory, but also provide ample opportunities for practical application. These courses require learners to solve real-world challenges and showcase examples of successful and ineffective solutions to problems companies face daily. The combination of conceptual and practical coursework enables students to take on the challenges of their current profession or open a business of their own. If you want to start your own business, an MBA can provide the practical knowledge and skills needed for entrepreneurship, from business planning to financial management.

5. Networking Opportunities

An MBA degree program can also offer extensive networking opportunities. Whether you are in an in-person program or an online one that fosters community, you can form meaningful connections with the people in your program, including:

• Faculty
• Guest speakers
• Classmates
• Alumni

Building a strong professional network can be invaluable for future career growth. In fact, it’s one of the most effective ways to get into your dream position because as many as eight out of every 10 job openings are filled through professional and personal connections.

6. Personal Enrichment

For many graduate students, earning an MBA is about more than expanding job opportunities or improving financial prospects. It’s a way to invest in yourself and realize your potential. If you’ve been told you would make a good leader or have an entrepreneurial spirit, an MBA can empower you to use your talents and enjoy more fulfilling work.

An MBA May be More Attainable Than You Think

If you want to experience the benefits an MBA can deliver but are worried about making a degree program fit into your life, you may be surprised by how easily a program can mesh with your other responsibilities. 

Easy Admissions Process

Some business schools involve an arduous admissions process. However, many institutions are removing barriers to entry, making it easier to apply and get started. For example, some schools (like MVNU Online) no longer require Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) scores on applications. 

Learn more about what you can expect when applying to MVNU Online.

Flexible Program Structures

MBA programs are designed to accommodate the schedules of active professionals, so classes often take place outside of traditional working hours. Online MBA degree programs offer the most flexibility, especially if they are structured asynchronously—meaning you can complete coursework when it works for you without attending live lectures. This flexibility can allow you to balance your job, family needs, and other obligations while pursuing your degree. 

Affordable Cost

The cost of an MBA can vary widely.  Some programs may be cost-prohibitive, but you can still enroll in a high-quality, accredited program that fits more comfortably in your budget. With MVNU Online, you can earn your MBA for under $20,000. Additionally, financial aid is available to all students who qualify for assistance.

Take Charge of Your Future with an MBA from MVNU Online

With valuable benefits that can propel you forward in your career, an MBA degree can be the perfect way to invest in yourself and your future. 

Are you ready to take the first step? Consider applying for our fully online accredited MBA program. You will benefit from an in-depth business education and be able to choose the concentration that best fits your interests and goals. Plus, you’ll enjoy the perks of passionate and involved instructors and a supportive learning community.

Learn more about the Master of Business Administration from MVNU Online. With multiple start dates a year, you don’t need to wait—you can take charge of your future now!