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What An MBA Can Do For You?

By: Kimberly Ireton, Corporate Writer of MBAjobs.ca

Beautifully framed, matted and hanging on hundreds of office walls around the country is a prestigious certificate known as the Master of Business Administration (MBA). Studies show that the professionals who proudly display this achievement are, for the most part, reaping significant career and personal benefits. In general terms, a Master of Business Administration represents the acquirement of well rounded business knowledge. Yet, it is more than that. It is a way of thinking, a way to approach and solve problems, and an advanced understanding of organizational behaviour and human relations. Currently, the Web is abuzz with MBA market statistics and hiring trends. But the bottom line is more and more business professionals are seeing a very big plus side in obtaining an MBA and/or hiring those who have already. But what, specifically, are these benefits? And why should someone think about pursuing an MBA? Can it really help to get to the next level?

The Big Picture

When MBA candidates are asked what the degree has done for them, many agree it has given them confidence, a big-picture perspective, and the ability to see things from different points of view. Most importantly, it has given them a strategic point of view like no other, and helped them become professional problem solvers. These are the specific skills and abilities that today's employers are looking for. Building and developing them through intensive MBA course work can help an MBA candidate land the career he or she wants. Beyond this however, if a candidate already has many years of professional experience, but is after something more substantial, an MBA can greatly help him or her gain the promotion and salary desired. In many cases it has been the ticket needed to help advance on the corporate ladder. Because an MBA is more than simply an end; rather, it is a means to an end. It is a way to obtain career goals. An MBA is a way to move up.

Climb the Ladder

A 2006 Graduate Job Report released by the University of Toronto shows MBA graduate salaries easily reaching into the six figures, regardless of industry, with the overall mean base salary being $85,200. For example, business consultants or health care professionals with an MBA can earn up to $150-$170,000 respectively. Other studies show that while tuition for Canadian or online MBA programs can range anywhere from $20-40,000 MBA graduates can expect a return of investment within 3 to 5 years, with an average salary increase of 71-130%. With this kind of financial gain comes other benefits as well. Research shows that the majority of MBAs can expect more challenging jobs and further responsibility. CPAs become high-end consultants, administrators become top management, coordinators become directors, the examples abound. As well, because pursuing an MBA shows drive and initiative, many earn promotions within their own company before they've even graduated. Having an MBA is one of the quickest ways to get to the top and land in the executive suite, or even beyond!

Think Outside the Box

A large reason for the success of MBAs is directly related to the hands-on case study aspect of many MBA programs. They require students to evaluate business dilemmas - reflecting current issues - and formulate the best plan of action. It is not simply theory and analysis typical of undergraduate studies. It is practical, tangible work that requires students to put analysis into action. For example, the majority of MBA case study work requires students to walk through Fortune 500 companies' and other national and international companies' real situations. Everything from currency hedging for international businesses and operational issues to illegal and ethical issues in the workplace. Not only do students learn from other's mistakes and solutions, it allows them to think about what they would have done and examine what could have been done better. They can compare and contrast what they may have done (or not done) in the past, and analyze how to make better decisions in the future. This kind of study stimulates the mind for new ideas. It teaches students how to solve problems in innovative ways and get the best results, regardless of industry. It is exactly the kind of critical thinking employers are looking for to help their companies become or remain market leaders. Plus they are transferable skills that can be used across multiple industries.

Listen & Learn

Furthermore, MBA classmates' backgrounds vary. A fellow student may be a VP of a large software development company or a senior administrator at an urban hospital. He or she may also be an engineer, founder of a consulting firm, financial analyst, project manager, or marketing professional. Regardless, everyone learns from, and networks with, each other. Students discover how best to listen and evaluate different opinions. As well, working with people in different industries, at all levels, is invaluable. Getting an MBA is a huge accomplishment. Research indicates that individuals with an MBA tend to move up the ladder much quicker than those without. Whether an MBA graduate wants to make a shift and find new career opportunities, increase his or her understanding of the business world, or be in a better position for future opportunities and success, many candidates agree that an MBA is the single most important investment of time, effort and money they ever made.

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