According to a survey by the Graduate Management Admission Council, nearly nine out of 10 MBA graduates can expect to have a job after graduation. About three-quarters of the alumni surveyed said they could not have gotten their current jobs without an MBA. In addition, the MBA is internationally recognized and represents a certain standard of achievement for businesses. Business men and women often obtain an MBA to move up the ladder in large corporations.
For many students, earning an MBA is an investment in themselves. Those who pursue a graduate business degree can earn twice as much on average as those with an undergraduate degree. Many students pursuing their MBA are currently in the work force and return to school in hopes of increasing their salary. Still others are fresh off their bachelor's and continue with their studies in hopes of a higher starting salary. Some companies require an MBA to move up to the next salary bracket.
For some, getting an MBA instills a sense of satisfaction that outweighs career goals. For those with a passion for business, the opportunity to hone skills, interact with like-minded classmates and be academically challenged is reason enough to pursue the MBA. A graduate study in business also allows students to network with peers and future colleagues.
Because MBA graduates learn how to buy, sell, innovate and grow, they are qualified and poised to start their own businesses. Business school can provide the insight to build a business from the ground up. Some MBA graduates pursue the degree for the sole purpose of becoming their own bosses and embracing entrepreneurship.