MBA Business Schools - Mba Degree
Mba Degree
MBA Degree Beneficial for Business Owners
You've run your own business for years, and plan to expand. An MBA program can provide knowledge to help successfully grow and manage your existing business, or start a new venture.
by Karen Lawson
MBA Business Schools Columnist
You’ve owned your own business for years, and are doing well. You have a vision for a new business, but have questions about tax accounting or information systems. You’re managing a business that’s been in your family for years, and want to update and expand services and opportunities. Whatever your situation as an independent business owner, an MBA degree can help you achieve your goals.
Online MBA degree programs offer scheduling flexibility and eliminate the need for commuting to campus. You can work on assignments and take tests when and where it fits into your schedule. If you have specific areas of interest, it may be possible to find an MBA program that offers coursework specific to your business. For example, if your business provides computer services, you may want to find a program specializing in information systems administration. What about the cost of an MBA? Although graduate work can be expensive, you may qualify for low cost federal student loans or other sources of financial aid. Investing in an MBA degree can ultimately provide many benefits to your business — plus it’s widely recognized and respected. This can help you build client confidence while supplying the skills and knowledge needed for excellent customer service. Also, the benefits of an MBA degree are not confined to the corporate executive suite. An MBA can help you excel in your own business ventures.
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer with more than twenty years of business experience. She holds BA and MA degrees in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on September 18, 2007 at 04:51 PM
Your Computer as Classroom: Earning Your MBA Degree Online
Online Master in Business Administration programs provide an alternative for busy professionals.
by Karen Lawson
MBA Business Schools Columnist
The phrase “back to school” conjures up images of reluctant kids shuffling off to new classrooms, but today’s nontraditional students often include seasoned professionals who’ve decided to take the next step and get an MBA degree mid-career. Online business programs reduce the amount of time spent on campus. In some cases you may need to complete a short annual residency and/or take exams on campus. An accredited online MBA program should provide content comparable to a campus program.
Graduate study traditionally provides an avenue for conducting research in areas of interest to you. If you’ve already established a career in a specialized area such as accounting, information technology, or business leadership, you can select a program that offers fields of concentration in areas matching your interests. A major concern among potential online MBA students is the lack of classroom interaction. Thanks to online chat sessions and discussion boards, however, you will have plenty of opportunity to consult with your professors and colleagues.
Earning a graduate degree is a challenging proposition, whether you choose a campus-based or an online MBA program. If you’re self-directed, and accustomed to meeting schedules and deadlines in your work, online learning may be the perfect option for earning your MBA degree. On the other hand, procrastination and interruptions can adversely affect your progress. It’s important to discuss your plans with your family and your employer, as you will need uninterrupted time for study, writing, and taking exams. Also, your employer may have a tuition reimbursement plan that can help you pay many of your expenses.
After more than twenty years of working in the business world, Karen Lawson became a freelance writer after earning her BA and MA degrees in English at the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on September 04, 2007 at 10:55 AM
Business Ethics Questioned in Mortgage Crisis
Mortgage foreclosures are increasing in large part due to non-standard lending practices. Foreclosures can have a wide impact, from your street to Wall Street. If you're interested in corporate leadership, an MBA program can help you get there.
by Karen Lawson
MBA Business Schools Columnist
Questionable lending practices may contribute to mortgage problems associated with sub-prime lending. This situation points to questionable business decisions. Under traditional lending guidelines, many homeowners impacted by adjustments in their mortgage rates would not have qualified for mortgage loans. If you believe you could make better business decisions, an MBA degree with an emphasis on leadership can provide access to new opportunities in corporate and executive management.
As news of business catastrophes and corporate malfeasance make the headlines, public (and stockholder) scrutiny of corporate business practices is increasing. Business ethics, strategic planning, risk management, and accountable leadership are all hot-button issues in today’s business world. If you’re considering an MBA program, choosing an emphasis in leadership can provide the skills and knowledge you need to make it to the executive suite.
If you already have a demanding career, you can help improve your chances for advancement by earning your MBA degree online. Traditional and career-oriented schools now offer MBA degree programs that can be earned in whole or in part online. Your employer may provide tuition assistance, and low cost federal student loans are often available for those enrolled in an accredited degree program. Completing an MBA program that matches your professional aspirations and commitment to ethical business practices can assist in enhancing your career potential. You can shop online for an MBA degree program that matches your needs and talk with admissions counselors about details of MBA degree programs that interest you.
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer whose interests include topics in post-secondary education. She holds BA and MA degrees in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on July 31, 2007 at 03:14 PM
Finance Undergrad Plus MBA Degree Equals Success
Just as the meteorologist forecasts changing weather patterns, finance professionals predict the flow of fiscal trends--sometimes with an amazing accuracy.
by Kelly Richardson
MBA Business Schools Columnist
College students by the thousands are getting the jump on the market by earning combined degrees. Supplementing a finance undergraduate diploma with an MBA degree prepares you to successfully navigate treacherous fiscal waters for your clients.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of financial analysts and personal financial advisors is expected to increase faster than average for all occupations through 2014. As baby boomers save for retirement and as an increasingly well-educated population seeks out investment advice, financial advisors and analysts will take on a critical role in preserving and accumulating wealth. Here are a few of the hottest finance positions for new graduates:
- Securities Analyst. Work for banks, insurance companies, mutual and pension funds, and securities firms to dissect security options.
- Financial Planner. Experts in investments, tax laws, and insurance that help individuals invest smartly based on identified short and long-term goals.
- Risk Analyst. Use a litany of investment reports and stock results to assess the risks involved with certain types of investments and securities.
For candidates looking to take on a more corporate role, combining finance studies with an MBA degree is a sensible route. Earning an advanced business degree through a distance education program allows you to get the training you need while avoiding the campus commute and rigid class schedule of a traditional program.
- Delivery. Virtual classroom training with textbook references.
- Benefits. Earn while you learn, instant communication with professors.
- Length. An MBA degree can be earned in as few as 6 calendar semesters.
Combining your finance studies with an MBA will give you the option to work in the corporate arena or on a personal planning basis.
Kelly Richardson has the inside track on all of the hottest career paths and resources. His articles appear career journals, periodicals, and e-zines.
“Financial analysts and personal finance advisors,” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Posted on July 17, 2007 at 11:03 AM
Focus on Business Ethics Leads to More Options in MBA Programs
As recent business scandals and incidents of "cooking the books" increase, the study of business ethics is becoming popular in traditional and online MBA programs.
by Karen Lawson
karen.lawson@mba-business-schools.com
MBA-Business-Schools Columnist
As a successful business professional, you shake your head at reports of corporate malfeasance and accounting scandals. You want to know how to help your organization avoid such peril and also want to advance your career. An MBA degree with courses in business ethics and organizational psychology can help you keep your company on track and prepare for a leadership role.
Corporate mission statements and ethical policies are only as good as an organization’s ability to communicate them. Employees, clients, and investors need to be aware of and clearly understand an organization’s mission, while being assured that their interest in the company is being protected through placement and enforcement of strong ethical standards.
Many MBA programs offer training in business ethics for executive management. Programs may include courses in organizational behavior, management, and ethics. If you are specializing in accounting and finance, preventative methods for avoiding accounting fraud, including systems and financial management, can be useful.
Research presented at a 2003 conference on business communications states that employers “want employees who can design and implement a company’s corporate ethics, standards and mission to internal and external constituents.”
MBA programs with a concentration in communications cultivate the sort of visionary leader that organizations are seeking. Preventing corporate scandal is more effective than responding to a crime after the fact. Creating and providing clear polices stating your organization’s policies and expectations can help prevent business-related scandal.
Your MBA degree can help you acquire the tools necessary for effective communication and leadership—a crucial component in preserving corporate integrity.
Business Communications Conference 2003
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer with twenty years of business and corporate experience. She holds and MA degree in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on April 12, 2007 at 04:28 PM
MBA Can Lead to Wide Range of Business Career Opportunities
Getting your MBA degree can be a useful step in achieving your career goals. Business training can be applied to many aspects of owning your own business, corporate employment or consulting work.
by Karen Lawson
karen.lawson@mba-business-schools.com
MBA Business Schools Columnist
If you want to grow your small business, embark on a consulting career, or enhance your chances of advancement in your current position, a MBA degree can help you meet your goals.
A wide variety of MBA programs, offered by colleges, universities, and business schools, offer concentrations in areas such as finance, human resources, and sales and marketing. In today’s fast paced work world, attending courses on campus may be difficult. The good news is that it’s now possible to complete your MBA degree online.
A comprehensive understanding of business principles and practices can be useful in a variety of professions. Your MBA program will provide training in areas such as accounting and finance, marketing, and business relations. This knowledge applies to many professions and vocations, and your understanding of these concepts can help you build your business and enhance its prospects. A MBA degree awarded by an accredited institution is a mark of professional accomplishment that can open doors to career opportunities. Your MBA degree will provide educational and business background widely applicable to your professional goals. If you own a professional practice in a field such as medicine or law, a MBA can be useful in managing your business and investment activities.
If you work for a corporation that provides tuition assistance, you may qualify for reimbursement of all or part of your tuition through your employer. If you own your own business, you may be able to finance all or part of your MBA tuition through low interest federal student loans. A financial advisor can supply information concerning tax deductions applicable to student loans and tuition costs.
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer whose interests include post secondary education and academic ethics. She holds and MA degree in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on March 01, 2007 at 01:58 PM
MBA Degrees Lead to Consulting Opportunities
Consultants assist a wide array of clients in meeting business needs. Your MBA degree can help you qualify for diverse consulting opportunities in your community--or abroad--when you add it to your work experience.
by Karen Lawson
klawson@mba-business-schools.com
MBA Business Schools Columnist
Corporations increasingly rely on consultants to provide expert support in areas from finance to sales and marketing. Your MBA degree can give you a distinct advantage when applying for consulting opportunities. Taking current business training is essential in updating your knowledge of today’s business trends and technological advancements.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that consulting positions in management, technology, and science will increase by 60% between 2004 and 2014. However, these positions are highly competitive due to high salaries and perceived glamour associated with international business or an association with top firms.
A combination of related experience specific to your preferred area of consulting expertise, combined with a graduate degree in business, finance, or computer science can help you land the clientele you’re after. An MBA degree with a concentration in your specialty attests to your expertise in meeting the overall business needs of many firms.
Scientific and technological advances are creating new opportunities for consultants. Security, logistics, and healthcare firms are seeking specialized consultants to help them meet or surpass their goals. Of course, many MBA holders take positions with management consulting firms that are in high demand in providing human resources management, from day-to-day operations to executive recruiting.
Business training and experience, when combined with your personal leadership attributes, can lead to exciting and lucrative consulting assignments. Successful consultants need strong analytical and communication skills, and must be able to work as part of a team. A liberal arts background (including foreign language) is desirable for international placement. You can earn your MBA degree entirely (or in-part) online. Get started today, and prepare for an enjoyable, dynamic consulting career.
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer whose interests include post secondary education and academic ethics. She holds an MA degree in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on February 21, 2007 at 02:12 PM
Corporate Recruiters Expect to Hire More MBA Grads
If you want to expand your career potential, an MBA degree may be what you need. A 2005 survey of corporate recruiters indicates that more corporate employers expect to hire more MBA graduates.
by Karen Lawson
karen.lawson@mba-business-schools.com
MBA-Business-Schools Columnist
A 2005 survey of corporate recruiters representing several hundred companies indicates that large corporations plan to hire increasing numbers of MBA graduates. MBA grads with concentrations in finance and accounting may do best of all, as changes in legislation and concern over accounting scandals drive the need for qualified financial managers and analysts.
The survey, which was conducted by the Graduate Management Admissions Council, revealed an increasing trend for hiring MBA graduates:
- Recruiters plan to hire 14% more MBA graduates in 2006 than in 2005.
- Fewer than 18% of companies surveyed reported that they would not hire candidates with MBA degrees as compared to 23% who stated in they would not hire MBA grads in 2003.
- 34% of companies surveyed planned to hire MBAs as consultants.
The MBA, or Master of Business Administration, is the best known of graduate business programs. The courses you’ll take in an MBA program can include business structure and functions, accounting and finance, organizational behavior and strategic planning. If you wish to specialize within your graduate business program, you can select from areas such as executive leadership, finance and accounting, human resources, and information technology management. Choosing an area of specialization can be especially useful if you already have a career in a particular area.
If you want to enhance your present career, check with your supervisor and human resources department to see if your company has a tuition reimbursement program. Your company may pay all or part of tuition costs associated with an MBA degree.
Graduate Management Admissions Council
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer with more than twenty years of business background. She holds an MA degree in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on February 19, 2007 at 01:53 PM
MBA Enhances Financial Management Careers
As global trade and advancing technology add complexity to financial management, an MBA degree can help financial professionals meet the challenges of international and electronic commerce.
by Karen Lawson
karen.lawson@mba-business-schools.com
MBA Business Schools Columnist
If you’re working in finance and want to advance, an MBA can supply the overall business knowledge needed to succeed in today’s competitive workplace.
Increasing emphasis on global trade and internet commerce is leading many employers to seek candidates with the latest knowledge of changing financial policies and accounting procedures, as well as solid working knowledge of computer applications associated with financial management.
It’s possible to earn an MBA with a concentration in accounting and finance. Changing business conditions such as the expansion of international commerce and the use of increasingly complex financial documents require managerial accountants to maintain current knowledge of financial and accounting policies and practices, as well as familiarity with trends in international trade.
An MBA degree can help you in a career involving managerial accounting, international finance, or corporate finance. Managerial accountants may assist in overseeing financial matters such as:
- Corporate investments
- Risk management
- Developing and exercising strategies for raising capital for expansion and operations
- Participate in mergers and acquisitions
Although many financial accounting positions require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, strong problem solving and analytical skills are often required of managerial accountants. Understanding the “big picture” of business operations and priorities can help you advance in your career.
An MBA can provide additional training and experience in using analytical and problem solving skills, strategic planning, developing strong written and verbal communication skills, and knowledge of international cultures and business customs. An MBA can be the perfect compliment to your accounting degree in today’s multicultural business world.
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of business experience. She holds an MA degree in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on February 15, 2007 at 01:50 PM
Executive MBA Degree Enhances Leadership Skills
You have several years of management experience, and are ready to take the next step. An MBA degree in executive management can enhance your leadership skills and provide business knowledge you need to help you move into senior management.
by Karen Lawson
karen.lawson@mba-business-schools.com
MBA Business Schools Columnist
The increasing focus on global business, rapid technological advances, and emphasis on strategic planning and excellence in human resources management provide outstanding opportunities for candidates with management experience and education in these areas. If you’re ready to step into the executive suite, an MBA degree in executive management can help you get there.
Executive MBA degree programs are typically designed for management professionals who have several years of direct management experience. You can earn your MBA degree in executive management online, in the classroom, or combine online courses with classroom attendance.
Executive MBA degree programs often emphasize teamwork, and you may conduct research, create presentations, and participate in group discussions that mirror real life executive activities. Your business and management background can provide a good foundation for your MBA degree coursework. If you have specific areas of interest in executive management, consult academic advisors at several schools to find a program that matches your professional goals.
Perhaps you’re an IT manager aspiring to executive management in information technology and security. You may be discouraged by reports of corporate scandal, and want to excel in corporate accounting and auditing. Your company’s customer base is expanding internationally, and you want to acquire knowledge and skills to enhance your organization’s understanding of international commerce and cultures. Many online business degree programs provide concentrations in these areas and more.
Whether you study online or on campus, executive MBA programs can help you take your experience and passion for business leadership to the next level.
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer whose interests include topics in post-secondary education. She holds an MA degree in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on February 05, 2007 at 01:44 PM
Doing Good Work: Management Opportunities in Nonprofit Organizations
Nonprofit organizations seek qualified management candidates dedicated to managing their budgets, fundraising, and motivating employees and volunteers. An online business degree can help you land a great job in a nonprofit organization.
by Karen Lawson
karen.lawson@mba-business-schools.com
MBA-business-schools Columnist
You’ve worked in the business world for years, and are looking for a change. Maybe you’re already involved with a nonprofit organization and want to contribute more to it as an administrator. You want to use your education and work experience to contribute to your community or to a cause that’s important to you.
An MBA degree can lead to positions directing and managing nonprofit organizations. Online business degree programs provide flexibility and the course content you need for management opportunities in the nonprofit sector.
If you’re interested in working for a nonprofit organization, you’ll want to tailor your business degree program to include courses in management, public relations, finance, psychology, and marketing. Your MBA may provide the credential necessary to get an interview, but you’ll also need a strong sense of commitment and responsibility, great people skills and strong written and verbal communication skills. You’ll need to manage and motivate people within budget limitations common to nonprofit organizations.
What your nonprofit organization lacks in lavish expense accounts and perks, they’ll make up for in your sense of personal accomplishment and satisfaction. You’ll use the knowledge gained in your online business program to motivate and direct others to achieve their best for a cause that’s important to you and your community.
Chances are you’re already working full time while volunteering with your favorite nonprofit organization. You don’t have enough time to attend courses on campus. Online MBA programs provide flexibility; you can study from home, your office, or anywhere you can access the internet.
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer whose interests include post secondary education and academic ethics. She holds an MA degree in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on January 23, 2007 at 01:45 PM
MBA Opens Doors for Healthcare Administrators
Your career in healthcare is rewarding, and you're considering moving into administration. An MBA can provide the necessary business training for administrative positions providers, hospitals and clinics, and managed care organizations.
by Karen Lawson
karen.lawson@mba-business-schools.com
MBA Business Schools Columnist
Your background in healthcare can be the first step toward a career in the business of healthcare. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, candidates with experience in healthcare and an MBA or other graduate business training are preferred for many key positions. Career opportunities are expected to increase at a faster than average level through May 2014.
Your combination of medical experience and an MBA offers potential employers an appealing set of skills and knowledge. It’s important for managers and administrators to understand effective patient care and healthcare protocols. As a healthcare administrator, you’ll establish and oversee administrative policy for your organization, making day-to-day and long-range business decisions that impact patient care and satisfaction.
Depending on where you’re employed, you may work closely with healthcare providers like physicians and nurses, or administrators such as accountants and executive management. Whether you work in a doctor’s office or as part of a team in a huge healthcare system, an MBA can provide the business knowledge and analytical skills you’ll need in healthcare administration.
Healthcare employers typically seek candidates with a broad range of work experience and education. Although some prefer to employ those with bachelor’s degrees in science, nursing, or healthcare administration, others prefer a liberal arts background with coursework in behavioral science and the humanities.
Your MBA program will probably include coursework in accounting, finance, economics, management, and organizational planning and marketing. If you’re ready for a change in your healthcare career, or want to enter the dynamic field of healthcare administration, an MBA degree can help you realize your goals.
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer whose interests include post secondary education and healthcare topics. She holds BA and MA degrees in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on January 12, 2007 at 01:41 PM
MBA Combined With Arts Experience Provides Creative Business Options
You have a liberal or fine arts degree, but a professional career in business is your true ambition. Combining your arts background with an MBA can lead to management positions in arts, entertainment, design, and communications firms.
by Karen Lawson
karenlawson@mba-business-schools.com
MBA-Business-Schools Columnist
It’s no secret that success in the arts can be an uphill battle. Clich??s about starving actors, artists, and writers tell the story. If you have an arts background and want a successful creative career, an MBA can enhance your creative experience with the necessary business and leadership skills.
You love to paint, act, or write, but you also need to make mortgage payments and care for yourself and your family. If you’re tired of low-paying and sporadic jobs in the arts, an MBA program can help you find lucrative employment within a broad range of creative organizations, educational institutions, and arts agencies. As a manager or executive in a creative company, your understanding of artists and creative processes can be useful in dealing with creative artists, designers, and writers.
If you are already working, don’t worry. You won’t have to miss a lot of work to accommodate a rigid academic schedule. MBA business programs are widely available online, and you may be able to choose a specialization that suits your professional goals.
What can you expect to learn in an MBA program? You can expect to study principles and theories of business, human relations, organizational management and psychology, and topics in accounting and finance. Before selecting your MBA program, it may be helpful to study job descriptions for management positions in the arts.
Today’s rapid advances in media, communications, and entertainment provide a variety of creative business opportunities. An MBA degree combined with your arts education and experience can provide the knowledge you need to succeed in the business aspects of arts and entertainment management.
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer whose interests include topics in education and popular culture. She holds an MA degree in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on January 05, 2007 at 01:37 PM
International Business Focus Increases Opportunities for MBA Grads
Competition is tight for management analyst positions. If you're interested in international business and have an MBA degree, however, your chance of finding a global career is excellent.
by Karen Lawson
klawson@mba-business-schools.com
MBA Business Schools Columnist
If you want to travel the world, and want a challenging career in business, you can create a career as an international management analyst. An MBA degree, combined with knowledge of foreign cultures and business practices, can give you the edge in competing for positions with major consulting firms.
You’ve achieved a stellar career in business, but want to make the leap from domestic firms to global business. An MBA degree from a traditional school or an online university with a concentration in international business can help you achieve your goals. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that although competition is keen for management analysts, candidates with knowledge in the following areas are most likely to succeed:
- International business principals and organizational structure
- Fluency in at least one foreign language
- Foreign cultures and business etiquette
As US business interests continue to expand overseas, the demand for international business analysts is rising. Graduates with MBA degrees who specialize in international business can assist international enterprises in understanding the cultural and business expectations of foreign colleagues and clients.
You can choose from a variety of MBA programs available on campus or you can earn your MBA degree online. It’s also possible to take a combination of traditional and online courses. If you love to travel, or have a background in the humanities, a career as an international business analyst can help you achieve your career goals while traveling the world. Opportunities include analyst positions in international law and business practices, translators and interpreters, and organizational and financial specialists. Your MBA degree can be your ticket to joining the exciting world of international business.
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer whose interests include academic ethics and the humanities. She holds a Master’s degree in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on December 15, 2006 at 12:07 PM
Work Experience and an MBA Education Valuable for Top Finance Jobs
As career changes become more common, more people are returning to college to expand skills acquired during years of business experience. Combine your work experience with an MBA for optimum career potential.
by Karen Lawson
karen.lawson@mba-business-schools.com
MBA Business Schools Columnist
You’ve invested years in your financial career, and you know that nothing is guaranteed in today’s dynamic business environment. Mergers and acquisitions, downsizing, and corporate scandals have lent an air of uncertainty to today’s workplace.
The good news is that the financial sector traditionally values work experience, and financial firms often promote from within their own ranks. If you want to advance from mid-level management to the executive suite, a combination of experience and an MBA degree can help.
You’ve worked in finance for years and are a diamond in the rough. An MBA degree can provide the “polish” that will make you shine in the boardroom. You’ll gain valuable knowledge in business practices, state of the art technology for data analysis and reporting, and gain a sense of global commerce and its significance in modern business. As technology and international trade open more opportunities, ongoing education is essential in order to be competitive.
MBA programs are now available online, or in combinations of traditional classroom and online instruction. Online options provide flexibility in scheduling coursework and can be completed from home or during business travel. It’s also possible to select an area of concentration in your business program, such as finance, international commerce, or business technology.
Your professional experience can provide a great basis for formal business programs. To succeed in executive level management, you’ll need strong communication skills, effective interpersonal skills, working knowledge of current technology, and solid understanding of current trends in your area of business. An MBA, when combined with your business experience, can provide a competitive edge as you advance to the executive suite.
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer with more than twenty years of business experience. She holds BA and MA degrees in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on December 08, 2006 at 12:05 PM
Choosing an Accredited Business Program
Congratulations! You've decided to get your MBA degree online. Accredited business schools offer a variety of business training programs online and on campus, and combinations of distance and classroom learning options.
by Karen Lawson
klawson@mba-business-schools.com
MBA-business-schools Columnist
Accredited business programs provide training for scenarios you’ll experience in today’s rapidly changing business world. International business relations, technology, and information security are emerging as significant sectors in business training programs. You want to earn your MBA degree, but how do you choose a business program that’s right for you? Selecting from accredited business schools is your first step.
What is accreditation? Basically, accredited business schools have met academic and professional standards established by an official accrediting agency. The US Department of Education website provides a list of approved accrediting agencies. It’s worthwhile to do some homework before selecting a business training program, as the advent of distance learning has allowed education scams to flourish.
Common sense is a useful research tool; if a program requires little or no study, or otherwise seems too good to be true, it probably is. Determining that a business training program is accredited is not enough as you’ll want to make sure that it is accredited by a legitimate accreditation agency.
College work done through accredited business schools can be verified and accepted by employers and other accredited academic institutions. Unfortunately, some business students have found that their business degrees were worthless after learning that they were awarded by institutions that weren’t properly accredited.
Don’t be impressed by slick websites and promotional brochures depicting ivy-covered brick buildings and bearing lofty sounding names. Most schools provide their accreditation information on their website or admission materials. Verifying accreditation information before enrolling in a business training program can help you avoid problems later.
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer with more than twenty years of business experience. She holds BA and MA degrees in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on December 01, 2006 at 12:04 PM
Design a Business Degree Program that Works for You
Today's post-secondary educational options provide traditional, online, and hybrid business degree programs. You can select courses and schedule your degree program according to your personal and professional needs.
By Karen Lawson
karen.lawson@mba-business-schools.com
MBA Business Schools Columnist
No question, you’re busier than ever. Sometimes it’s hard even to grab a cup of coffee between meetings, phone calls, and e-mail. So how do you fit a business degree program into your whirlwind schedule? Even if you’re not a technical whiz, you can take user-friendly online courses to earn all or part of your business degree.
If you’ve never taken an online college course, fear not. Online learning is one of the fastest growing educational formats. Online courses are designed to accommodate busy professionals who need a degree of scheduling flexibility not offered by traditional on-campus programs. And you don’t need to be a computer expert to get started. Many institutions offering online courses have live tech support or distance learning specialists who can assist you in solving technical problems.
It’s certainly convenient to study at home or while traveling for business. But online degrees take a lot of dedication. Your commitment is an important key to success in distance learning. Your online business degree courses will be as rigorous as classroom courses. You’ll do assignments, write papers, take quizzes, and read as part of your online courses. You may also participate in dedicated chat sessions with your instructor and course colleagues.
People who are self-directed and who can complete projects on their own often do well with distance learning. If you enjoy working with others, you can design a business degree program that includes some classroom courses. Working with an academic advisor can help you design a business degree option that best meets your needs.
Online business degrees can help you take your career to the next level. If you’ve got the dedication, virtual education could be just right for you.
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer whose interests include academic ethics and college course design. She holds a Master’s degree in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on November 24, 2006 at 12:17 PM
Online MBA Degree Enhances Career Potential
You're working in accounting, have some experience in human resources, know your way around technology, and are curious about international business. An online MBA degree can help you focus your interests and achieve your career goals.
By Karen Lawson
Karen.lawson@MBA-Business-Schools.com
MB Business Schools Columnist
Today’s options for earning an online degree while working full time have provided widespread opportunities for working professionals in many fields to earn MBA degrees. MBA programs vary widely, and programs of study can be designed around your career interests. The knowledge acquired in an MBA program compliments many professions.
Whether you are an attorney, a medical doctor, an accountant, or a human resources specialist, an online MBA degree offers benefits through learning about business practices, technological advances and theory and practice of business and commerce. Courses in economics, accounting and finance, business customs and management can enhance your professional versatility. If you are thinking of changing careers, an MBA can provide a bridge of knowledge that will help you transition successfully.
An online MBA degree program requires a similar level of commitment and self discipline as a traditional MBA, but provides flexibility in terms of scheduling. You can study from home, work or while on the road. You should be able to work with your school’s advisement staff to design a program that matches your interests and goals.
It’s possible to specify an area of concentration in some MBA programs. Areas of specialization can include concentrated study in accounting and finance, human resources, and information technology. Your studies may also include organizational psychology, principles of management, humanities and foreign cultures and languages. Don’t rule out subjects new to you. It’s possible for MBA students to find entirely new career paths through their online studies. It’s a good idea to check out several online MBA degree programs before choosing one that’s right for you.
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer whose interests include topics in career education and academia. She holds BA and MA degrees in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on November 13, 2006 at 04:24 PM
An MBA Can Lead to a Wide Range of Business Career Opportunities
Getting your MBA degree can be a useful step in achieving your career goals. Business training can be applied to many aspects of owning your own business, corporate employment or consulting work.
By Karen Lawson
klawson@mba-business-schools.com
MBA-business-schools Columnist
If you want to grow your small business, embark on a consulting career, or enhance your chances of advancement in your current position, an MBA degree can help you meet your goals. Most MBA programs offer concentrations in areas such as finance, human resources, and sales and marketing. Best of all, you can complete the degree without quitting your current job: many schools offer MBA degrees online.
A comprehensive understanding of business principles and practices can be useful in a variety of professions. Your MBA program will provide training in areas such as accounting and finance, marketing, and business relations. This knowledge applies to many professions and vocations, and your understanding of these concepts can help you build your business and enhance its prospects.
An MBA degree awarded by an accredited institution is a mark of professional accomplishment. Graduates often find that the MBA degree opens doors to an array of career opportunities. The value of the degree is its versatility. If you own a professional practice in a field such as medicine or law, for example, an MBA can be useful in managing your business and investment activities. The critical thinking and business skills you’ll gain from an MBA program are crucial in almost any profession.
If you work for a corporation that provides tuition assistance, you may qualify for reimbursement of all or part of your tuition through your employer. If you own your own business, you may be able to finance all or part of your MBA tuition through low-interest federal student loans. A financial advisor can supply information concerning tax deductions applicable to student loans and tuition costs.
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer whose interests include post secondary education and academic ethics. She holds and MA degree in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on November 13, 2006 at 03:24 PM
Choosing the Best MBA Program
If you're looking for an MBA program offering great academics that's flexible enough to accommodate your busy professional and family life, here's how to choose the best MBA school for you.
by Karen Lawson
klawson@mba-business-schools.com
MBA Business Schools Columnist
You’re considering more business training and know that an MBA is the highest achievement in terms of business degrees. Advances in online business programs have made an MBA more accessible than ever to busy professionals.
Earn Your MBA Degree Online
Advances in e-learning now make it possible to earn all or part of your MBA degree online. You can choose from accredited business schools that are completed online, on campus, or a combination of classroom and online time. Although an online degree may not offer the status of a prestigious campus, the convenience and flexibility can be more suitable to your needs as an established professional.
Tailor Your MBA to Your Professional Needs
If you work in an area such as finance, human resources, or international commerce, you may be able to specify this as an area of concentration in your MBA studies. This allows you to concentrate on an area of business related to your employment and professional interests, resulting in better employability or advancement at your current company.
Researching Online MBA Programs:
Take these smart steps to find an MBA program that maximizes your degree’s potential:
- Verify that the program you choose is properly accredited. The US Department of Education has information about accreditation on their website.
- Consult an academic advisor at your new school to determine which degree option is the best match for your goals and to select an area of concentration, if applicable.
- Consider whether the class schedule will allow you to fulfill professional and personal obligations. Keep in mind that you will need to schedule sufficient time to read textbooks, write papers, and prepare for exams.
- Check to see if your school qualifies for partial or full tuition reimbursement from your employer to keep student loan debt at a minimum.
With proper research and careful planning, an MBA degree can be a worthwhile accomplishment that can lead to professional advancement and recognition.
Source
About the Author
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer whose interests include post-secondary education and academic ethics. She holds BA and MA degrees in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on October 17, 2006 at 09:51 AM
Breaking into Public Relations with an MBA Degree
You've seen them on the news--the suave, polished public relations people who seem to take charge calmly and quickly while enhancing their organization's image. An MBA degree can help you achieve a career in corporate media relations.
By Karen Lawson
MBA-business-schools Columnist
You’ve attended meetings too numerous to count, spent long hours developing, producing, and presenting projects, and you want more. You’ve seen press secretaries, media representatives, and others who never waver under pressure. You want to join them, but how do you get the edge in the competitive world of media relations? An MBA degree can help you achieve your goals.
Your MBA Degree Provides Strong Business Background
Public relations positions are much in demand, and you’ll need an extra edge to land your dream job. The job market for public relations and media specialists is projected to grow faster than average through 2014, but it is a very competitive field. Increased demand for corporate accountability is causing corporations to focus on public relations. Large organizations count on their media relations people to project a strong image of good corporate citizenship to their stockholders and the public.
Multi-Faceted MBA Degree Coursework
An MBA degree, especially when combined with your business experience, provides a wide range of knowledge and background. Not only must public relations representatives be able to communicate clearly and effectively verbally and in writing, but they must also understand the mission, inner workings, and policies of the organizations they represent. Your MBA program may include:
- Theory and Practice of Public Relations
- Courses in journalism, writing and public speaking
- Design, Administration and Interpretation of Public Surveys
- Organizational Management and Psychology
- Computer Graphics, Desktop Publishing
Launching a Media Relations Career with an MBA Degree
In addition to the coursework above, you may study psychology, social sciences, and cultural diversity for a media relations career. Fluency in a foreign language can be an asset in large urban areas. If you are dynamic, creative, and have strong analytical and problem solving skills, an MBA degree can help you enter or advance in the exciting field of corporate media relations. If you don’t have time for a traditional course of study, many schools offer MBA degrees through online programs. Get started today, and you can soon earn your fifteen minutes of fame.
Source
About the Author
Karen Lawson spent more than twenty years in corporate America before becoming a freelance writer. She earned and MA degree in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Posted on July 07, 2006 at 05:58 PM
Why Earning an MBA Is Essential for Business
Business is extremely risky. It requires taking calculated risks, keeping abreast of constant twists and turns, and remaining ever sensitive to different cultural or social environments. Investors looking for partners tend to stick with those who have earned an MBA. This is not to say that an entrepreneur who lacks an MBA won't necessarily be effective. But as a general rule, it makes more sense to deal with someone who has completed several years of business school as opposed to someone who hasn't.
Business is extremely risky. It requires taking calculated risks, keeping abreast of constant twists and turns, and remaining ever sensitive to different cultural or social environments. Investors looking for partners tend to stick with those who have earned an MBA. This is not to say that an entrepreneur who lacks an MBA won’t necessarily be effective. But as a general rule, it makes more sense to deal with someone who has completed several years of business school as opposed to someone who hasn’t.
MBA Discrimination?
Perhaps you’ve already been a victim of what some people call MBA discrimination. You feel you have the qualities, business savvy, accounting skills, marketing know-how, and basic economic background to be successful in a wide variety of ventures. But because you lack that crucial document, because you lack an MBA, it’s hard to secure clients or investors.
Bad News about the MBA
The bad news is that things aren’t going to get much better. Because the business landscape is changing so rapidly, earning an MBA is all but essential for modern business. You can lament the rules, but that’s simply how the game is played.
Good News about the MBA
The good news is that it’s relatively easy to do something about your current situation. Earning an MBA is not nearly as difficult as it once was. You don’t need to leave your current job and lock yourself up for two years like previous generations had to. All you really need is drive and an Internet connection. You already have the latter, or else you wouldn’t be reading this. And presumably, drive and ambition are not really problems if you feel you’ve hit a glass ceiling. The only thing standing in your way is an actual MBA degree. So what are you waiting for?
Posted on June 29, 2006 at 05:53 PM
PhD Programs in Organizational Leadership Prepare Business Professionals for Managing Change
It still pays to work on Wall Street, at least that's what the latest salary figures reported by the Wall Street Journal suggest. Overall compensation on Wall Street is expected to increase an average of 20 percent. That's good news for recent business school graduates.
It still pays to work on Wall Street, at least that’s what the latest salary figures reported by the Wall Street Journal suggest. Overall compensation on Wall Street is expected to increase an average of 20 percent. That’s good news for recent business school graduates.
What can those with MBA degrees expect to make on Wall Street? Investment bankers at the managing director level can expect to receive compensation packages worth $2.2 to 3.3 million in 2005. Of course such hefty salaries are reserved for those with several years of banking experience.
Recent business school graduates fair well on Wall Street too. A first-year associate can expect to earn between $105,000 to 125,000. One with a few years of experience might earn around $170,000 to 215,000 as a municipal derivatives trader.
Brokerage firms that are enjoying the most growth and biggest payouts are Goldman Sachs Group, Lehman Brothers Holdings, and Morgan Stanley, reports the Journal. Most of the growth is attributed to mergers and acquisitions activities and oil revenues.
MBA Programs: A Ticket to Wall Street
Many Wall Street brokers get the credentials they need to work on Wall Street at business school. Some MBA programs may offer specializations in investment banking or finance, both of which are relevant foundations for those seeking a career as a trader or broker. Graduate business school programs typically last two years; all require at least a bachelor’s degree for admission.
Such large salaries do come at a price, however. Wall Street brokers generally work very long hours. Their work can also be stressful, especially if they are shepherding a multi-million, or billion, dollar deal.
If those sacrifices sound too great, then you should consider other options. You can still use your MBA in the pursuit of a financial career. Brokers and financial managers work with a variety of financial companies assessing the value of stocks, analyzing industries for good investment opportunities as well as a variety of other positions. They might also work independently as a private financial advisor or as a consultant, giving advice to small and mid-sized firms on how to invest profits and endowments.
Source:
Posted on June 02, 2006 at 05:44 PM
Your Passport to Change
Considering going on for your Master's Degree in business administration? Probably a good decision if you plan on going far in the business world. According to ABC News, fifty percent of the graduates from top business schools that obtain an MBA get a job. Better yet, they are able to obtain a better job at higher pay - 10-12% higher that those applying for the same position without an MBA.
Considering going on for your Master’s Degree in business administration? Probably a good decision if you plan on going far in the business world. According to ABC News, fifty percent of the graduates from top business schools that obtain an MBA get a job. Better yet, they are able to obtain a better job at higher pay - 10-12% higher that those applying for the same position without an MBA.
The overall career outlook for the average business education graduate is high. Many graduates use an MBA to make a significant career switch - roughly 45% - moving from non-profit, manufacturing and technology fields to the world of business. The real life experience that an MBA provides is geared towards sending the grads into the field - immediately prepared to get down to business. Different than your typical undergrad “first jobs” paying between $30,000 and $ 45,000 to start, an MBA can expect from $61,000 to $85,000. Combined with a specific undergrad degree, an MBA could be your passport to a highly secure niche position.
Investing in your MBA
Does it make sense to invest $100,000 in a Top Business School? Whether you choose an on-line MBA program or one that is taught full time or one which is conducted at night or during weekends, it will pay for itself in a little under five years. You have the rest of your life to put away the additional earnings. Where else can you make that type of ROI - return on investment? Earning double your starting undergrad salary on the low side, and triple that salary on the high side, the small investment in the loan and the quick re-pay time will work in your financial favor.
Loans for your MBA come in both Stafford and Private Loan Types. The government backed Stafford loans can be applied to tuition only expenses, while private loans offered at the same low rates, can be used for living expenses and other miscellany required for completing your program.
Posted on May 12, 2006 at 05:35 PM
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