Business degrees continue to be among the most popular college programs for students, and it’s no wonder. Employment in business is growing faster than the national average. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment in business will grow by 8 percent, creating about 750,800 new jobs between 2020 and 2030. While it is possible to create a successful career in business with a bachelor’s degree, more and more the MBA is becoming a requirement for those who want to work in C-suite positions. With this knowledge in hand, you may be wondering how to find an MBA program.
Here’s what you need to know to find the best MBA program for you!
Finding the Best MBA Program for You
Evaluate Your Needs
Before enrolling in any school, you should decide what characteristics you’re looking for in an MBA program. The best MBA for one student may not be the best for you. Factors you should consider include whether or not you want to relocate to attend school, if you want the freedom and flexibility to continue working while earning your degree, and, of course, what you’re willing to invest financially in your education. Ultimately, the best MBA program for you will meet your requirements and won’t require you to sacrifice your needs.
Visit the School
It’s important to get a “feel” for your future school before matriculating. Arrange a meeting with the admissions office at your school, as well as a campus tour. Your school may also offer information sessions that can help answer any lingering questions you may have and clear up any doubts regarding whether the school offers the best MBA program for you.
Speak With Students and Alumni
One of the best ways to learn about the culture and environment of your school is to interview alumni and current students. Many MBA programs have their own social media pages (e.g. Facebook or LinkedIn) where you can connect and network with students. Additionally, if you reach out to the admissions office of your school, they may be able to put you in contact with current students who can field your questions.
Research Faculty
The relationships you share with your academic advisors, thesis committee, and faculty will be among the most important during (and after) your graduate school tenure. Prior to making a decision about where you want to earn your MBA, you should research the faculty members you’ll potentially be learning from and working with. Read their faculty profiles, find out if their research interests align with yours, and learn about their professional background.
What Do the Best MBA Programs Have in Common?
While you may have your own list of requirements that an ideal MBA program must meet, there are certain qualifications that the best MBA school should have.
Accreditation: It’s a Necessity
One of the most important qualifications that your school should have is accreditation. Accreditation ensures that universities and colleges meet a strict standard of quality. Determined by both private and non-governmental agencies, a school’s accreditation guarantees that you, the student, receive an education that adequately prepares you for the rigors of professional life post-graduation. The best MBA programs will be accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
A Good Location
The location of your school can determine quite a bit about your post-graduation life. While in school you’ll develop a network of contacts nearby and likely participate in local job fairs. Where your school is located can impact the quality of these network connections and opportunities. University of Bridgeport is conveniently located in the tri-state area, with easy access to New York and New Jersey.
Of course, the location of your institution also matters if you plan to commute to campus. However, some MBA programs are also offered online. In an online MBA program, you can study remotely while earning a high-quality education.
Specialized Curriculum
Your future school should be able to train you to reach any and all professional goals you may have. One way this can be achieved is by providing you with a rigorous and highly specialized curriculum. University of Bridgeport offers students the opportunity to select an area of concentration. These include:
- Accounting
- Analytics Intelligence
- Finance
- Healthcare Management
- Human Resources Management
- Marketing
- Management
By selecting an area of concentration and completing the coursework associated with it, students are able to set themselves above the pack upon entering the job market.
Flexibility
Another element to consider when choosing a program is flexibility. Many students earning their MBA are returning to school after an absence and as such, need the flexibility to work while attending classes. University of Bridgeport offers students the opportunity to earn their MBA online. This online MBA program allows students to earn their degree at a flexible pace, when and where they want. This program can be completed in as little as one year, though the online format provides students the option to earn their degree more slowly should that suit them.
Choosing to enroll in a graduate program requires quite a bit of forethought and consideration. This is especially true of MBA programs. Attending the right MBA program can mean setting the course for your future career. The connections you make during this program will continue to benefit you for years to come. Make sure that when you’re choosing your future institution, you’re choosing the best MBA program for you!
Interested in pursuing an MBA degree? Request more information about University of Bridgeport’s MBA program!