What Should You Study After an MBA: Advanced Degrees or Specialized Training?

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a significant milestone in an individual's career journey. After completing one, many are left with the question of what to do next. This article will explore various options, including advanced degrees and specialized training, and how they can benefit your professional development.

Post-MBA Career Trajectories

Traditionally, the advice is to gain some corporate experience before considering further studies. This period of work exposure can help you refine your skills, improve your networking, and prepare you for the demands of advanced academic programs such as a Ph.D.

Exploring Post-MBA Options

One popular option is to pursue field-specific certifications such as those in data analytics, six sigma, or big data. These courses can provide targeted skills that are highly valued in many industries. Additionally, individuals often opt for professional certifications like CPA (Certified Public Accountant), CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), or ACWA (Advanced Certification in Warehousing, and Logistics) to enhance their expertise in particular areas.

Choosing the Right Path Based on Your Background

Your undergraduate degree and field of interest should guide your decision. If you majored in a specific discipline, it makes sense to align your advanced studies with that background. For instance, if you hold a B.S. in Business Finance, an MBA might be the natural progression. Alternatively, if you have a diverse background and are interested in teaching, you might want to pursue the National Education Testing (NET) exam, which can lead to teaching opportunities in universities.

Considering the PhD Path

A Ph.D. is a more specialized academic degree that can lead to significant career advancement. While it is not always necessary, it can be advantageous, especially if you aspire to become a professor or conduct in-depth research in a particular field. However, it is important to note that a Ph.D. typically requires extensive commitment and a strong interest in the subject matter.

Business Focus: Continuous Learning and Skill Enhancement

While it is true that many seek further academic training after an MBA for personal and professional development, the true essence of learning should be driven by passion and necessity. Pursuing additional degrees for the sake of having more credentials can sometimes be counterproductive. Instead, focus on earning courses that are directly relevant to your career goals and industry needs.

Skills Enhancement

Many professionals choose to dive deeper into specific business topics to develop a strong niche. This approach can make them more valuable consultants, as they can offer more specialized insights and solutions to clients. For example, if you are a business consultant, continuously learning about trends and best practices in your client's sector can greatly enhance your ability to provide strategic advice.

Personal and Professional Fulfillment

Ultimately, the decision to continue with advanced studies should align with your personal and professional aspirations. If you enjoy learning and are driven by a passion for understanding more complex business issues, then taking courses that interest you and broaden your knowledge base can be deeply fulfilling.

In conclusion, the path you choose after an MBA should be carefully considered based on your background, industry interests, and career goals. Whether you opt for advanced degrees or specialized training, the key is to ensure that the learning aligns with your professional vision and drives your personal and professional growth.