Master of Business Administration (MBA) Guide

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) is among the most popular graduate degrees in the United States and is currently among the top-paying master’s degrees, so it’s no surprise that many people consider it as an option when they are looking to continue studying at the graduate level. When you earn an MBA, you can open doors to higher level positions within business, demonstrate your expertise, grow your professional networks, and build entrepreneurial skills to launch your own venture. 

If you're considering whether an MBA degree is right for you, this guide is here to help with resources, tips, and answers to frequently asked questions about this graduate business degree. Bookmark this page to refer to, as we'll be adding new resources regularly.

What is an MBA?

An MBA is a master’s degree in business administration. In this popular graduate degree program, you’ll learn about business principles and develop your leadership skills across various disciplines, such as marketing, finance, and accounting. You can expect to build a strong foundation in management knowledge and skills, while also finding opportunities to specialize in specific areas of business like consulting, human resources, and data analytics.

People earn their MBA at various stages of their career, from a few years out of undergraduate-level study to seasoned professionals looking to advance to the executive level. The degree typically takes about two years to complete if you enroll full-time. 

Learn more MBA degree basics:

• What Is an MBA Degree?

• How Long Does It Take to Get an MBA?

• Is an MBA Worth It?

• MBA Degree Salary: 2022 Guide

• Why Get an MBA? 6 Reasons to Consider an Advanced Business Degree

Types of MBA programs

There are several types of MBA programs available to suit your needs. Some people seek their MBA part-time while they continue working or tending to other commitments, while others pursue their MBA full-time. No matter what your situation may be, there are flexible options that help make MBA programs accessible to all types of students. 

Learn more about the MBA options available to you:

• 6 Types of MBAs: Choosing the Best Degree for Your Graduate Business Education

• What Is an Executive MBA

• Executive MBA vs. MBA: Which Is Better For You?

• Is an Online MBA Worth It? The Return on Your Investment

MBA curriculum: What is covered in an MBA program?

An MBA is a cross-functional course of study in which you’ll learn about business across all facets, including marketing, finance, and accounting, while also building your workplace skills such as communication, project management, and leadership. 

Learn more about the MBA course of study:

• How to Get an MBA Degree

• 8 Common and In-Demand MBA Concentrations

• Your Guide to the MBA Finance Concentration

• 3 Reasons to Pursue a Health Care MBA

• Your Guide to the MBA Business Analytics Concentration

• Your Guide to MBA Internships

How to get an MBA degree: Admission requirements

MBA admission requirements vary according to the school you wish to study at, but admissions departments typically look for candidates with a certain level of education and experience.

Often, a complete MBA application packet includes a resume, statement of purpose or essays, recommendation letters, and GMAT or GRE test scores. Some admissions departments invite applicants for an interview, but not in all cases. 

Learn more about applying for an MBA program:

• How to Meet MBA Admission Requirements

• How to Write a Statement of Purpose for an MBA

• How to Write an Effective MBA Resume

• How to Write an MBA Recommendation Letter

• What Is the GMAT?

• What Is a Good GMAT Score? Finding Your Goal Score

• What Is the Executive Assessment?

• GMAT vs. GRE: Which Should I Take?

What jobs can you get with an MBA?

MBA graduates typically pursue roles in business, often in leadership positions.

Learn more about jobs that you might pursue after earning an MBA:

• Financial analyst

• Project manager

• Human resources manager

• Operations manager

• Management consultant

• Marketing manager

• Health services manager

• Entrepreneur

• Business development manager

Other types of business degrees

An MBA is one of many options for those interested in a career in business. Depending on your particular career goals and experience, you may also choose to pursue a different type of business degree.

Learn more about other graduate business degrees:

• MBA vs. MS: Choosing Which Is Better for You

• Master’s in Management vs. MBA: Which Is Better?

• Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) Degree: What You Should Know

Learn more about business degrees:

• Types of Business Degrees: A Guide

• Your Guide to Online Business Degrees

• Is a Business Degree Worth It? 2022 Guide

• How Long Does It Take to Get a Business Degree?

• 10 In-Demand Jobs You Can Get with a Business Degree

Learn more about undergraduate business degrees:

• 6 Business Majors For Your Goals

• What Is a Business Management Degree and What Can You Do With One?

• Should I Get a Degree in Entrepreneurship?

• What Can You Do With an Organizational Leadership Degree?

• What Can You Do with a Communication Degree: 10 Career Paths

• What Is an Accountancy Degree? A Guide

• Your Guide to the Associate Degree in Business Administration

Next steps     

Explore how you can advance your career with an online business degree or MBA from a top university. Try a course like Strategic Leadership and Management, Managerial Economics and Business Analysis, or Digital Marketing before you apply to experience for yourself whether the program is the right fit.