MBA

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a graduate degree designed to provide broad knowledge of business and management. It aims to develop analytical, leadership, and decision-making skills applicable across industries.

Origins trace to the early 20th century in the United States, with Harvard Business School offering one of the first MBA programs in 1908. Since then, MBA programs have expanded worldwide and diversified in format and specialization.

Core curriculum typically covers accounting, finance, marketing, organizational behavior, operations, statistics, economics, and business ethics. Many programs emphasize applied learning through case studies, projects, internships, and team-based work.

Specializations, or concentrations, allow focus areas such as finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, international business, information technology, healthcare, or supply chain management. Delivery modes include full-time programs, part-time or evening programs, executive MBAs for working professionals, and online or hybrid formats.

Admissions commonly require a bachelor's degree, work experience, standardized tests (GMAT or GRE), letters of recommendation, and an application essay or interview. Accreditation by bodies such as AACSB, AMBA, or EQUIS signals program quality and oversight.

Outcomes vary by school and region but commonly include enhanced career progression, expanded professional networks, and potential salary increases. Total cost and duration differ; proponents cite ROI through long-term earnings, while critics question cost, time away from work, and alignment with career goals.