Back to the Basics: Q&A for Potential MBAs

What is an MBA and how do you choose the program that is right for you? Everyone knows what the three letters have come to represent, but Joshua Kobb of HEC School of Management's MBA program goes back to the basics in this round of MBA Q&As about the world's most popular degree.

What is an MBA?

The Master of Business Administration is an academically recognized management diploma. And because it has the label MBA, it means that graduates have common set of skills regardless of where they get their degree. Despite differences between individual programs in structure, focus and environment, the MBA remains the world's most widely recognized management degree.

What an MBA will do for you

A career change, redirection or boost is the most common use of an MBA. If you have a technical background but prefer management functions, an MBA can be an effective vehicle for change. It can consolidate and build on your current professional experience and propel you forward, and it can provide you with a global view of business, allowing you to be effective in any functional area within the organization. An MBA is a sign that you have made an investment in yourself and your future, that you have the global picture of the management of an organization and the business tools you need to be an effective leader.

What an MBA will not do for you

Get you the job of your dreams. There are no guarantees on graduation it's up to you to use your MBA, your experience and your skills to sell yourself. Waiting for the recruiters to come knocking on your door is not a good strategy. Be realistic, do your homework, and make your degree work for you. And be sure that whichever program you choose provides you with the resources and the tools you need to plan your career and spark your job search.

Timing an MBA

Most MBA programs recommend or require that you have professional experience before you embark on your studies. This will ensure the "real-life" application of the subjects you are studying, and will allow you to make a more significant contribution to learning process. Consider the question of timing very carefully, and ask yourself if now is the right time for you. Have you gained substantial management experience to really benefit from the course? Keep your eye on your goal of an MBA, and consider the repercussions of accepting that promotion at the risk of not doing your MBA.

How to choose the right MBA

Given all the options, you need to ask the right questions. Get a feel for the program and the type of courses on offer, the freedom to specialize, to participate in an in-company project or whether an exchange program is important to you. Visit the campus and speak to students and alumni. Before you invest, make sure you spend wisely on the program that makes you feel best. The fundamental elements to consider include:

Program structure and length:

• Are you getting the management basics?
• Do you have the flexibility you seek?
• How long does it take to get the degree (opportunity cost of a pause in your career)?
• What is the language policy of the school?

Quality of fellow students and faculty:

• How and where were the faculty members educated are they accessible?
• Is the school accredited?

Career services:

• Are they accessible?
• What are their resources?
• Who recruits on campus?

Geographic considerations

• Do you want a local program?, Are you considering US business schools, or a European one? Will your classmates add value to you?

Source: QS TopMBA.com Career Guide