If you’re interested in pursuing a professional career in management, finance, entrepreneurship, or any other business-related field in Maryland, you may be considering your next steps. Choosing to pursue a master of business administration (MBA) is a big choice. You’ll need to search for the right business school program, find all the info you can on their courses and class content, figure out what you’ll need in terms of what’s required for admission, and decide if the costs and the return on investment are worth it.
You’ll often find that, in today’s competitive landscape, a general MBA can be a stepping stone toward a rewarding and lucrative career. MBA holders graduate with a wider array of opportunities than those who completed only an undergraduate degree. And, unlike degrees with highly specialized learning and academic focus, you can work in roles across many fields. MBA graduates often pursue work in accounting, IT, operations, health administration, or human resources.
In addition to giving you the opportunity to access to a variety of industries, MBAs often lead professionals to roles that pay high salaries, as they are considered leaders in their field. While the benefits make an MBA seem like an obvious next step, some working professionals might feel as though pursuing an advanced degree isn’t compatible with their lifestyle. If you’re already working in an office and have other responsibilities in your life, between your social and family obligations, this is understandable. When would you study?
The benefit of an online MBA program is that it is designed for applicants just like you, you can find one that fits your schedule and have the ability to work on assignments from work, home, or your favorite coffee shop. There are at least three systems colleges use, including 100% online programs that are full- or part-time, a dual degree program to shorten your path if you’re looking to earn multiple graduate degrees, and hybrid programs that have short campus visits offered to encourage networking with your community. While working on your MBA from home sounds like an easier path than heading back to school, keep in mind that online MBAs are still a significant commitment.
It’s also worth pointing out that you may want to consider online MBAs from institutions in your area. Some schools have short residency requirements, even for online students. You’ll also be closer to in-person events, lectures, networking opportunities, and other resources available to those within a reasonable distance. This could be a boon, even though you could technically attend from anywhere in the U.S.