A Global MBA degree can open the door to many paths. Explained.

MBA degrees represent a popular option for professionals seeking to upskill themselves and earn valuable new credentials. Indeed, MBA programs are now ubiquitous, with many universities across the world providing this course of study in various formats. Typically, participants complete a series of ‘core’ modules focused on general business and management fundamentals, and other ‘elective’ modules that may allow further specialization in an area of interest (eg. in finance, marketing, or strategy). The program may be delivered in a full-time format, which would appeal to younger professionals willing to take a sabbatical from their work, or part-time as with Executive MBAs, which cater to the developmental needs of older working professionals. Either way, and by the end of an MBA program, participants would have gained valuable insights into contemporary business practices whilst also deepening their expertise in a certain area. This is typically facilitated by a strong focus on reflective practice and peer learning, with participants using resources such as case studies, simulations and role plays to develop their understanding of the subject matter. Capstone units often round off the program, to consolidate the different strands of knowledge the learner has already assimilated.

Thus, an MBA degree is typically vaunted for the transformative effect it can have on an individual and their career prospects. Granted, the pursuit of this degree may not be for everyone – some, depending on their experiences and existing credentials may not benefit from pursuing an MBA – but the completion of an MBA can potentially present an individual with several interesting and lucrative career paths. For instance, one popular career path that many graduates desire to pursue is management consulting. Many consulting firms exist today, aside from the typical top-tier organisations, including smaller, less established names that may offer relatively niche services. Consulting itself offers graduates several prospects. Some may elect to pursue generalist strategy consulting, and indeed this is a popular choice for many. Other choices include consulting in the domain areas of digital transformation, financial technology, and sustainability. Indeed, MBA graduates are highly sought after for roles in these sorts of areas, given their subject matter knowledge and competencies in research, analysis, problem-solving, collaboration and communication, amongst others. Further, a stint in management consulting may be a valuable platform to further develop a career at senior levels in other sectors and industries.

The pursuit of this degree may not be for everyone – some, depending on their experiences and existing credentials may not benefit from pursuing an MBA – but the completion of an MBA can potentially present an individual with several interesting and lucrative career paths.

Other career paths include roles in investment and finance, logistics and supply chain management, marketing, and human resource management. Indeed, many individuals choose to complete an MBA to deepen their knowledge in these sorts of business domains, thereby positioning themselves for more senior positions that may also involve people management responsibilities. Some individuals may choose to supplement their existing skillsets with knowledge of business fundamentals as well, in order to open doors to more commercially-oriented roles in their respective sectors. As examples, individuals with considerably deep expertise in the legal, healthcare, social work or arts sectors may find MBA curriculum beneficial for developing their business acumen and commercial awareness. One other category of MBA participants is those who seek to switch careers completely. Although a complete career switch can be a daunting prospect, the employability programs of many MBA courses offer participants the tools, resources, and networks to develop their interests and apply for roles outside of their comfort zones.

Additionally, it is important to note that entrepreneurship can be a potential career path open to many MBA graduates – and indeed, many notable companies today have been founded by MBA graduates. Of course, some have argued that the typical MBA curriculum is perhaps ill-suited for those seeking an entrepreneurial career path that requires creativity, out-of-the-box thinking and other qualities. However, the counter argument here is that MBA degrees valuably impart knowledge about business fundamentals – sales, marketing, finance, human resources, leadership, and so on. This provides graduates with the basic tools necessary to start and run a business. The other soft skills acquired through MBA studies, such as communications or interpersonal skills and cultural intelligence, are equally vital, and can place graduates in a strong position to be successful entrepreneurs in the long run. Particularly, MBA programs provide participations with important opportunities to build networks and social capital, which can be beneficial for acquiring resources in the early stages of entrepreneurial initiatives.

One other category of MBA participants is those who seek to switch careers completely. Although a complete career switch can be a daunting prospect, the employability programs of many MBA courses offer participants the tools, resources, and networks to develop their interests and apply for roles outside of their comfort zones.

Finally, programs that provide exchange opportunities, internships, placements, and opportunities to study in different locations or geographies can be very valuable as well. For instance, exposure to different geographies and cities brings with it exposure to new cultures, people, and opportunities. Participants develop an understanding of business and hiring practices in other locations, thus positioning them to take advantage of job opportunities should these be available. In conclusion, MBA degrees can represent a valuable investment of time and money, especially for professionals seeking to take their careers to the next level, or open more doors to brand new opportunities in adjacent sectors.

About the author

Dr Preman Chandran is currently an Assistant Professor and Deputy Director for the Global MBA and Masters in Global Business programs at SP Jain School of Global Management (Singapore Campus). Prior to this, he was an Assistant Professor at the University of Lancaster, United Kingdom. He holds a PhD in Leadership and Management and a Master of Arts in Management and Consulting from the University of Lancaster, and a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Business and Management from the University of Bradford, United Kingdom.

Note: The views expressed in this article are solely author’s own and do not reflect/represent those of Shiksha