Master of Business Administration (MBA): Degree Overview

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree program provides students with opportunities to improve their knowledge of management, finances and global economy. Students in these graduate degree programs may also participate in internships or workshops that cover modern business issues. An MBA degree can help students pursue advancement in the workplace or be a beneficial credential in the job market.

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Master of Business Administration

In a Master of Business Administration degree program, students learn how to apply business planning skills and strategies to everyday business operations, usually at the level of upper management. An MBA degree program can include training, assignments, reports, group presentations and internships, which can help students develop critical thinking skills that are required of managers and executives.

MBA degree programs usually last two years, and they are split up into foundational business courses and electives. Electives can be used to complete concentration options, which may be available in subjects like finance, supply chain management, marketing and leadership. Some programs provide integrative real-world workshops that help students develop their skills in international business, negotiations, networking and decision-making.

Education Prerequisites

Typically, universities and colleges require applicants to an MBA degree program to have a bachelor's degree. Some universities encourage applicants to have a basic understanding of business, statistics, computer programs like Excel and other quantitative subjects in order to succeed at a MBA degree program.

Course Topics

An MBA degree program incorporates topics of business and finance as they relate to management. Depending on the program, students may choose electives that range from accounting to strategic planning. Some common courses may include:

  • Economics
  • Communication
  • Organizational behavior
  • Marketing
  • Accounting
  • Finance
  • Managerial strategies
  • Operations management
  • International business
  • IT management and strategy

Popular Career Options

Since the skills and knowledge acquired in an MBA degree program can apply to various businesses, graduates may find jobs in a wide variety of management or supervisory positions. Some popular careers may include:

  • Marketing manager
  • Advertising manager
  • Sales manager
  • Public relations manager
  • Chief executive officer

Certification and Continuing Education Information

A professional holding an MBA may pursue certification for advancement opportunities. Certification is voluntary, but it can be useful when seeking employment. Some certification options may include the Certified Manager designation, available through the Institute of Certified Professional Managers, or the Certified Management Consultant credential, offered by the Institute of Management Consultants USA, Inc.

Beyond the master's degree level, students may pursue a Ph.D. in business administration. The courses in these programs typically focus on extensive research, dissertation projects and seminars related to strategic management, business theory and commerce. Students usually pursue this advanced degree in order to teach business at the postsecondary level or to become researchers in this field.

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