MBA Programs

About MBA Programs

The Master of Business Administration (MBA or M.B.A.) is a master's degree in business administration and management. The idea of the MBA degree started  in the United States in the early 20th century. This is the point at which the country became industrialized which resulted in companies looking for scientific approaches to management. Core courses studied during an MBA program cover various areas of business including accounting, finance, marketing, human resources, and operations from the angle of management analysis and strategy. Most programs also include elective courses so that participants can better format the course content to their career goals.

The MBA is a professional degree for those with a bachelors and often several years of job experience. There are several accrediting bodies for MBA programs that ensure their consistency and quality. Many business schools offer a choice of MBA programs tailored to full-time, part-time, executive and distance learning students, many with concentrations that will allow them to get the specific knowledge they are interested in out of the course.

Who Needs an MBA?

Because attending MBA programs takes a lot of time and money to get, it is important that one evaluates whether or not they really need one before they apply for a program. An MBA is for those with a deep desire for a career in business. If you know that you want to work within the business world for your whole life, you should give some thought to pursuing an MBA. While it is possible to enter a program straight out of college, many MBA programs prefer applicants with former experience in the real world. One reason for this is that one of the primary benefits of attending business school is the ability to learn from like-minded peers. If you and your classmates have nothing to learn from one another, then no one is likely to get the full benefits of the program

MBA programs can be particularly beneficial for those with leadership aspirations. An MBA program will teach a broad range of skills related to business and leadership that may not be possible to gain from a job with a narrow focus. In some industries, it is not possible to advance far without an MBS, so getting one is essential for these individuals.

Formats of MBA Programs

Because MBA applicants come from many different backgrounds, life stages, and have different goals for their studies, many schools give them several different options for study. Some common formats of MBAs include:

• Part-Time - usually spaced out for over a period of two to three years. These are ideal for professionals looking to maintain balance between work and academic study
• Full-Time - traditional MBA programs with full-time course work and class attendance curriculum
• Accelerated MBA - designed for professionals looking to take advanced courses within a short period of time
• Executive MBA - designed for professionals having significant years of experience in their respective professions (usually 10-15 years)

Career Options for MBA Graduates

Earning an MBA prepares the student for many different types of career. Many people choose MBA programs so that they can change their career or reach a higher level in their current company. Some common careers for MBA recipients include:

• Business analyst or strategist
• Business development analyst, associate, or manager
• Director of a department
• Entrepreneur/founder
• Financial analyst
• Management consultant
• Marketing associate, analyst, or manager
• Portfolio manager
• Project, product, or program manager
• Operations analyst, associate, or manage