Is an MBA Degree Right for You?

Your business career is at a crossroads. An MBA degree can help you transition into a leadership role, or specialize in an area of particular interest to you.

By Karen Lawson
klawson@mba-business-schools.com
MBA Business Schools Columnist

Can an MBA degree help you land the job of your dreams? It depends on your professional goals and lifestyle. If you’re a dedicated professional, you’re probably used to working long hours. Graduate study may require working longer hours and shuffling your schedule to fit personal and professional commitments.

MBA Programs Offer Many Areas of Concentration

Many MBA degree programs are designed with the needs of working professionals in mind. Often you can take some or all of your courses online, and many provide the flexibility of concentrated courses or extended course calendars. What will you study in your MBA program? It’s possible to enhance your knowledge by selecting an area of concentration such as human resources, IT, or finance. If you aspire to the executive suite, an MBA can help hone your skills in analytical thinking, problem solving, organizational behavior, and strategic planning. Many employment recruiters view the MBA degree favorably when hiring. If you’re planning to stay with your present employer, your MBA study may contribute to your performance enhancement plan. Some employers offer tuition reimbursement programs. You’ll probably still be responsible for buying books and other materials, and you may have to pay your tuition in advance, but these programs can be a great financial resource.

Your MBA Degree and the 25 Hour Day

An important part of any MBA degree is strong support from your personal networks. You’ll need the support and understanding of your family, employer, and coworkers as you balance your MBA course work with other responsibilities. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is a difficult but essential aspect of successful graduate study.

About the Author

Karen Lawson is a freelance writer whose interests include topics in postsecondary education and the arts. She holds BA and MA degrees in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.

Posted on April 3, 2007 at 10:33 AM

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