What You Need to Know About a Master’s of Business Administration Degree

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As an international student or young professional, you may consider pursuing a Master’s of Business Administration (MBA). An MBA is a popular way to build business and management skills, while also advancing your career. You gain many invaluable skills, build a strong network, open your career path, and learn to think about industry trends and issues differently. An MBA helps set you up for success in the competitive business industry and offers you credibility. But before you decide to make the investment, here’s an outline of what you need to know about an MBA program.


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What is an MBA?

A Master of Business Administration degree, also known as an MBA, is an internationally recognized degree with a focus on refining skills needed in business and management careers. An MBA provides students with practical experience needed to succeed in such roles. The first MBA program was offered by Harvard University in the United States, and has grown into one of the most popular professional degree programs worldwide.

This credential is most often offered in English and takes two years to complete as a full-time student. However, it’s possible to enroll in a single-year MBA program. You may also complete an MBA as a part-time student. Individuals who have previous managerial experience may also apply for the executive MBA program (EMBA).

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What are the Admission Requirements?

Below you’ll find a list of the general requirements for an MBA program, however, specific requirements may differ from program to program. To get the official requirement list, please contact your target academic institution, or explore their website.

  • An undergraduate degree from a recognized institution with a B average in the final two years of studies
  • Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
  • Minimum two years relevant work experience (varies by program)
  • English language proficiency score in IELTS or TOEFL if studies weren’t completed in English
  • Completion of school’s online application which may require the following supporting documents:
    • Essay(s)
    • A statement of interest
    • A recent resume
    • Two (or more) reference letters
    • Official academic transcripts

Note: Meeting the minimum admission requirements does not automatically guarantee you a spot in the program.

Learn more about the differences between the GMAT and GRE, and who should take each test.

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What Courses Will You Take?

When you choose to pursue an MBA, you’ll earn a much better understanding of the world of business. Some of the classes you’ll take may include:

  • Finance
  • Accounting
  • Business Ethics
  • Economics
  • Marketing
  • Organizational Behaviour
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Business Law
  • Business Communication

Wondering which Canadian institutions get top marks? Read about top business schools here!

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Why Get an MBA?

Leadership Skills

Students who enroll in an MBA program are learning alongside bright, driven personalities. When it comes to group projects, you will gain a lot of experience in leadership and conflict resolution. Working in a group setting naturally provides you with communication skills and the ability to motivate others as you all have one goal in common. In addition, completing an MBA provides you with credibility and shows other industry professionals you are an expert in the field, and are dedicated to the industry.

Build a Global Network

On top of being taught by some of the best mentors in the industry, you are constantly surrounded by like minded individuals who you can discuss industry trends and issues with. You both challenge and learn from each other, and connect on different topics, creating a type of community. This network could be incredibly useful to you whether you are on the hunt for a new job or are in need of someone to brainstorm ideas with when building a business. In addition to this, the school’s name will further connect you to other industry professionals.

Career Opportunities

Many pursue an MBA to expand their career options, because with such a degree comes new skills you can apply in a number of fields. Having an MBA also provides you with higher chances of securing a managerial role, which in turn may present a higher salary. Some individuals pursue an MBA with the idea they will one day own their own company. Many leaders in the Fortune 500 companies have completed an MBA. This is not to say an MBA will guarantee a successful billion dollar company, however it opens many doors.

Think Globally

Completing an MBA enhances your knowledge in the business and management industry, and allows you to think globally about big business issues. You learn to reflect much deeper and think from various angles when it comes to trends and issues in the industry. This in turn allows you to develop and apply smart solutions. It’s important to offer a fresh and unique perspective to potential future employers and employees. This specifically sets you apart from your competitors.


So, you must now decide if an MBA is worth it. Will it help advance your career? Do the courses interest you?

Ready to start your study abroad journey? Contact the team at ApplyBoard! We’re here to help.

 


Adrianna Dyczkowsky, Public Relations Specialist at ApplyBoard

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