A master’s in Business Administration (MBA) equips candidates with a competitive skill set and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s dynamic and ever-changing business landscape.
And in the United States, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), overall employment in business and financial occupations is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations, resulting in an average of about 911,400 openings projected each year to 2032 — making this a worthwhile, in-demand industry and career field.
Still, students considering a master’s in Business Administration (MBA) may wonder which industries offer graduates the best career opportunities.
Let’s explore five of the most popular industries for master’s in Business Administration (MBA) graduates:
What is a master’s in Business Administration (MBA)?
A master’s in Business Administration (MBA) is a graduate degree that equips you with the knowledge, skills, and network to thrive in various industries and fields. This degree leads to challenging and rewarding career paths and opens doors to leadership positions and higher earning potential overall.
The specific courses offered will vary depending on the program you choose. However, some common core MBA courses include:
- Accounting: Understand financial statements, analyze financial performance, and make sound financial decisions.
- Finance: Manage financial resources, assess investment opportunities, and develop financial strategies.
- Marketing and Branding: Understand consumer behavior, develop marketing campaigns, and promote products and services.
- Information Systems and Knowledge Management: Design and manage efficient and effective business processes.
- Organizational Behavior: Understand human behavior in organizations, motivate employees, and build effective teams.
- Cases in Ethics, Innovation, and Leadership: Make sound ethical decisions in a complex business environment.
MBA programs typically take two years to complete full-time, although part-time and online options are usually available.
University of Bridgeport’s master’s of Business Administration (MBA) programs, for example, offer flexible options to fit your busy schedule, with full-time and part-time tracks, as well as convenient online MBA and hybrid formats.
Lastly, a master’s in Business Administration program focuses on developing essential skills beyond the classroom and into the real world. Some key skills you’ll gain include interpersonal skills, communication skills, integrity, passion for development, and problem-solving.
What industries do MBA graduates find careers in?
Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) programs are extremely worthwhile as they equip students with the skills and background needed to succeed in a variety of industries across today’s dynamic business landscape.
All salaries and employment growth rates are provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Banking and finance
The banking and finance industry is a popular career field for MBA students. Banking and finance careers often focus on financial analysis, risk management, and investment strategies.
Some of the specific roles that master’s in Business Administration graduates can pursue in banking and finance include careers as:
- Accountant: Analyze financial records and prepare financial statements
- Financial Analyst: Research and evaluate investment opportunities
- Financial Examiner: Investigate financial institutions for compliance with regulations
- Personal Financial Advisor: Provide financial advice to individuals and families
The median annual salary for financial analysts, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), is $95,080, and the employment growth rate for this occupation is projected to grow eight percent by 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.
Computer and information technology (IT)
The computer and information technology (IT) industry also offers many career opportunities. The sought-after skills such as strategy and innovation, leadership and interpersonal skills, and systems management skills are all covered in master’s of Business Administration degree programs.
In turn, graduates can thrive in roles such as:
- Database Administrator: Design, implement, and maintain databases
- Network and Computer Systems Administrator: Manage and maintain computer networks and systems
- Computer Systems Analyst: Analyze and design computer systems
The median annual salary for computer systems analysts is $102,240, and the growth employment rate for this occupation is projected to grow ten percent by 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Healthcare management
The healthcare industry is rapidly growing and needs skilled professionals with strong business acumen. MBA graduates find rewarding careers in healthcare management in a variety of settings, such as:
- Medical and health services manager: Oversee the operations of hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities
- Hospital administrator: Manage the day-to-day operations of a hospital
- Healthcare consultant: Provide consulting services to healthcare organizations
The median annual salary for medical and health services managers is $104,830, and the employment growth rate is projected to grow twenty-eight percent by 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Ready to level up your career with an MBA degree? Learn more today!
Consulting services
Consulting firms offer a wide range of services to businesses of all sizes, and due to their strong analytical and communication skills, Business Administration graduates are in high demand.
Candidates in these positions help businesses solve problems, improve efficiency, and achieve their goals. Some of the specific roles that graduates can pursue in consulting include:
- Management analyst: Analyze business operations and recommend improvements
- Market research analyst: Conduct market research and analyze data to inform business decisions
- Environmental scientist and specialist: Provide consulting services on environmental issues
The median annual salary for management analysts is $95,290, and employment is projected to grow ten percent by 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
E-Commerce
The e-commerce industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the economy, meaning there will be more and more jobs for graduates with a thorough understanding of marketing, finance, and operations.
Specific roles that Business Administration graduates can pursue in the e-commerce field include:
- Software developer: Develop and maintain software applications for e-commerce businesses
- Web developer: Design and develop websites for e-commerce businesses
- General operations manager: Oversee the day-to-day operations of an e-commerce business
The median annual salary for software developers is $127,260, and the employment growth rate for this occupation is projected to grow twenty-five percent by 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Find your perfect fit with a master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from University of Bridgeport
University of Bridgeport’s master’s in Business Administration program is designed to prepare you for a successful career in any of these industries. Our program provides students with a strong foundation in business fundamentals, as well as the specialized skills they need to succeed in their chosen field.
Ready to take the next step in your career and increase your satisfaction and earning potential? Apply today or contact us for more information.
Your future starts today!