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Step 1
** Look at the career you have in mind **
The first thing you want to consider when answering the big "should I get an MBA" question is what is your intended career. An MBA is important in some career fields and not important in others. Make sure to consider carefully what field you plan on working in and find out if an MBA is important in that field. -
Step 2
** Find out if an MBA is a necessity with hiring companies in your field **
If you plan on working for a specific type of company, find out if an MBA is required for the types of job you would like at that company. You can look up the company website and look at their job openings. Read the requirements and see if an MBA is one of them. You can also talk to job placement agencies and friends of yours in similar companies. Find out if an MBA is required or just highly recommended. -
Step 3
** Determine if you have the time and money to get an MBA **
Think hard before going into debt to get an MBA. If you need money now, then you probably need to get a job now. You can get an MBA later when you have some money saved up. -
Step 4
** Decide if you get experience without the MBA **
Do you already have a lot of business experience? Are you the type of person who has a strong feel for business and can learn MBA skills on the job instead of in a classroom? If you are not planning on working for a company that requires an MBA, your experience may be worth as much or more than an MBA. Some companies may even prefer someone who has years of practical experience than someone who has an MBA. -
Step 5
** Figure out how much more money you would make with an MBA **
Look at salary surveys in your field. Compare expected salaries with and without an MBA. Is the salary really that much different? Even if the starting salary for an MBA is higher than without, what is the salary like 5, 10 or 15 years down the line? Will the MBA make that much of a difference in the longterm future? -
Step 6
** Consider another degree instead of an MBA **
Maybe in your field a Master's degree of a different type would be more worthwhile than an MBA. Maybe even getting a second BA or taking vocational classes could be more worthwhile career wise than an MBA. -
Step 7
** Determine how important it is to build yourself up the ladder **
An MBA gives you a lot of potential in the business world, but is that really where you want to be? Do you prefer having a low pressure job or a stay at home job where the salary is lower but your career is secondary to other important goals in your life? If you just want a practical career that brings in your basic salary but you don't see yourself as a real "career person", an MBA is probably not for you.
Comments
sonni57 said
on 7/20/2009 Great info on getting an MBA it's a big decision and you're advice is very helpful.
kristara said
on 7/20/2009 Great information 5*
skyedanzer said
on 7/20/2009 Very informative and great info!