Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Should I pursue an MBA?

That is probably one of the question you've came across when you're early on in/few years into your career. Some people want to have increased responsibilities in the company, or are ready for a career change, or need to stay competitive in the job market,  and most of all, more $.  For whatever the reason is, do some research and figure out if this is worth it, because after all, getting an MBA requires investing a lot of time and money.  Here are some of the key points to consider:

  1. What motivates me to go back to school? - If your answer is to merely stay competitive in the job market, I will strongly suggest you to reconsider it. Although a lot of job openings out there indicating preferences for MBA/CFA/CPA etc. it is 'a plus', not a requirement.  I remember my boss from my summer internship told me that he'd rather hire someone with bachelor degree with 5 years of experience than someone with an MBA but no experience, I find it true after I started hiring for my team and my boss's team. With all the candidates I've interviewed, some MBA graduates are truly bright, but I also met individuals who are extremely intelligent and without an MBA.  Same holds true if your motivation to go back to school is for increased responsibilities in the company or a promotion, there are many different ways to advance your career even if you stay in the company: ask to be involved in projects, optimize efficiency in your current tasks, or mentor new hires are few great ways to demonstrate your leadership   potential.  You can also ask your manager what you can work on in order to develop your leadership skill, and have him or her guide you through it. I don't think any manager will turn you down on that request. (If he or she does, then it's about finding another job instead)
  2. Who is paying for it? - According to Forbes, the cost to obtain an MBA can easily go above $100,000.  If you are going for part time, will your company pay for it? If so, what is the reimbursement plan? Since the cost is high, most companies will reasonably choose to offer limited support. Some companies provide few thousands per year,  some only sponsor for related course work, some reimburse only if you get a B grade or better in the course, some reimburse % based on your grade. Many companies do not pay for books and fees at all. If you are going for full time, how will you pay for it? Take out a loan or pay out-of-pocket, or both?
  3. What is my real cost for an MBA? - That is your out-of-pocket cost, opportunity cost and long-term cost.  You could be paying some of the tuition today, and make monthly payment for the student loan after your graduation. Opportunity cost could be expensive as well. For full time MBA, you will be paying for two years of tuition and earning no income for two years. (exclude summer internships). For part time, your company could make you stay for a fixed period while you're getting reimbursed, and during this time you could have found another job with higher salary.
  4. What is my expected salary increase after getting an MBA? - This is the most important question, right? The statistics out there are screaming $100K and above in average.  But the real average is often inflated, since the average includes any individual who has an MBA, meaning company executives or C-level officers who have the degree are included in the numbers. Real average varies greatly and considers these factors - the quality and reputation of the school, years of experience, industry, geographic locations.  It's true that some MBA grads with 1-2 years of experience land on jobs that pay $100K+, but it's not common.
I hope this sums up the majority of what you need to consider before pursuing the MBA, it's definitely a big decision and planning out your timeline and expectations correctly will make your MBA experience worthwhile. 


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