What are the Benefits of an MBA Degree? Gaining a Competitive Edge in the Job Market

As you look at the time and cost to complete a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) Degree, you may be wondering what are the benefits? An MBA is a valuable degree to have whether you’re looking to enter the workforce, change careers, or advance in your current field.

Top 4 Benefits of an MBA Degree

1. Marketability

An MBA can provide graduates with a competitive edge that many employers desire. It can help differentiate you from other candidates and provides deeper knowledge than one learns from a bachelor’s degree in business. An MBA is incredibly versatile and can lead to a variety of careers not just in business but also marketing, finance, and even administration.

2. Concentrations Can Help with Advancement

Earning an MBA can be a valuable tool for advancing with your current employer. Choosing a concentration relevant to your field can give you a leg up when applying for a promotion. For example, if you’re currently working in a hospital, concentrating in Healthcare Management would allow you to hone in on relevant topics than concentrating in Management which is broader.

Some MBA programs in Connecticut, like University of Bridgeport, allow you to concentrate in more than one field! This is especially profitable if you want to have separate areas of expertise under your belt. For example, concentrating in both Management and Marketing. You would have the skills to lead a team as well as market your company or brand. The more marketable you are – the better!

3. Curriculum to Build On

MBA programs are unique as their curriculum can be relevant to many sectors outside of the traditional “business” world. Look for a program which has courses including accounting, leadership, information or data management, and finance. If you are looking to lean on an MBA rather than experience when in a

job interview, attending a program with practical courses will help allow you to draw on skills you learned in class rather than in the field.

4. Building your Network

An important factor when choosing your MBA program should be the faculty. In any graduate program, faculty are an important resource of guidance and mentorship. MBA is no exception. Look for faculty who teach courses that they are experts in and have real world experience. This will give you a unique and realistic perspective you can’t find in text books. In addition, professors make great references for jobs as they can often speak to your communication and interpersonal skills.

Fellow students can also be valuable resources both in class and after graduation. Perhaps you connect with someone and decide to go into business together, or they know of a job that is hiring. Expanding your professional network is always beneficial.

Attending an MBA program at a brick and mortar school can also assist in building your network and support services. You can connect with the career development office for tips on improving your resume, job search strategies, and best interview practices.

Next Steps

Submit your free online application or send your questions to Graduate Admissions at gradadmissions@bridgeport.edu! You can also join us at an upcoming event.