The concept of advanced training in business matters grew out of the changes brought about by the Industrial Revolution. The first advanced degree in business was awarded in 1900 by the Tuck School of Business. Since that time, the concept of the MBA has been adopted by every major business school. There are now specialties in MBA programs, such as an MBA for marketing and related programs for finance.
There is an annual ranking of the top MBA universities and colleges from a number of sources. These lists are followed closely by those seeking an MBA and hiring MBA graduates. If seeking marketing MBA candidates, a recruiter will look for programs highly regarded for its MBA marketing graduates.
Since the 1950s the possession of an MBA has been seen as an increasingly important achievement for corporate advancement. Over 150,000, individuals graduated from MBA programs in the U.S. last year. If an individual seeks to run a major company’s marketing program, an MBA in marketing is often considered highly desirable.
What is Studied Within the MBA Program?
MBA programs are not just about academic subjects and knowledge. While there are rigorous academic requirement in all quality MBA programs, the network and personal credibility that come with such a degree are increasingly valuable in the business world.
Basic MBA programs will focus on core or “hard executive skills” in areas such as finance and marketing. Many will also provide material in the areas of what are called “soft executive skills.” These include leadership, ethics, communication and team building.
If an MBA is to be granted in a specific business discipline, such as an MBA in marketing, additional courses will go into further detail in the chosen area of study.
Why Should Someone Pursue a Marketing MBA?
The foremost justification for an MBA is the specific business skills and knowledge that are to be acquired. A marketing MBA, for example, will normally have courses in the area of marketing research. Learning specific quantitative skills allow one to manage marketing programs and outside vendors, such as advertising agencies.
What Standard MBA Courses Are Taken?
All recognized MBA programs provide courses covering the subjects of operations, marketing, finance, accounting and management. Schools gain reputations for excellence in granting MBA degrees in particular fields, such as those who offer an MBA in marketing or operations. These schools attract professors, corporate sponsors and students particularly interested in those fields of study.
What Career Opportunities Are Available Once Completed?
Achieving the status of a MBA can play a significant role in one’s career progress. Many large companies recruit graduating MBA students upon graduation. A large number of executives return to school to obtain an MBA while they continue with their jobs.
Why Should Someone Pursue this MBA Online?
Technology and approaches to advanced education have greatly increased the attractiveness of nontraditional routes to an MBA. A large number of candidates cannot afford the expense or time for a full time program of 1 or 2 years. It is now possible to do most course work, even for the top MBA programs, online and minimize on campus time requirements. The difference between an online MBA marketing degree and one earned in a full time program can be negligible in many cases.
What Requirements Are Needed for Admission?
Admission to many MBA programs can be quite competitive. There is an extensive selection process for many programs. Many online programs are seen as having a less difficult process for executives to gain acceptance. Almost all programs require an undergraduate degree.
Most programs will require some version of the following items:
• Background Information on the applicant
• Letters of recommendation
• Written Essays
• Undergraduate transcripts
• Minimal scores on the GMAT and GRE
• Personal interviews
• Application fees of varying amounts
A marketing MBA or an MBA in any discipline is a major investment that can pay large dividends.