The word mba conjures up images of the glamorous world of business. It evokes skyscrapers, a bustling financial centre, and white-collar workers speaking on their iPhones. It may even conjure up the image of a college dropout who has made millions. The reality is that an MBA is a significant investment in both time and money, and it will open doors to new career opportunities and boost your salary.
Whether you’re working in a related field or considering switching careers, an MBA will provide the tools to adapt to changing business environments. You will gain a broad range of skills and have access to a large network that will give you a bird’s eye view of the business landscape. This will help you navigate the peaks and troughs of the economy and see how different factors affect the overall picture.
You’ll also get the skills, knowledge and mindset necessary to start your own business. Many entrepreneurship programs are designed for people who want to launch their own companies, and they often offer support in the form of mentors and investors. Depending on the program, you’ll be able to earn your degree online or on a college campus and learn from professors with extensive experience in the industry.
If you choose to enroll in a full-time, traditional program, you’ll be required to attend classes on campus on a set schedule. You’ll also have the opportunity to take part in extracurricular activities, and networking is a major component of the MBA experience. Many business schools have accelerated programs that will allow you to complete your MBA in one year if you have the focus and discipline.