Is It Worth Earning an MBA as a Non-Business Student?
Many MBA students enter their programs with bachelor’s degrees in business fields. But what if you graduated with a bachelor’s in another discipline? Is earning an MBA as a non-business major worth the effort?
An MBA often translates to a higher earning potential and increased decision-making responsibilities in the workplace, and you don’t need a business degree to earn an MBA. According to the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), in 2021, fewer than half of incoming MBA students earned a business degree as undergrads.
Applicants without a business degree can thrive in business school. In fact, humanities, social science, and STEM majors make up more of the incoming class than business or economics majors.
However, before attending business school, students should first consider the benefits and drawbacks of earning an MBA without a business degree.
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The Benefits of an MBA Degree
Earning an MBA, even if you don’t have a bachelor’s in business, may still help you advance in your career. Beyond access to high-paying jobs, MBA degrees can deliver multiple important benefits.
MBA Degree Holders Stand Out
GMAC’s 2021 Prospective Students Survey asked whether a graduate business degree helps professionals stand out at work. Overall, 84% of respondents said yes. Among domestic MBA students, the figure rose to 87%.
You Can Advance Your Career Goals
The 2021 GMAC survey queried graduate business students about their career goals and reasons for pursuing an advanced degree. Among domestic MBA students, 55% said they sought a salary increase, 46% indicated a desire to move into management, and 44% stated a goal of ascending into senior leadership.
Access to Targeted Careers
GMAC’s 2021 survey also asked graduate business students about their preferred job functions. Domestic MBA students targeted careers in business strategy (49%), consulting (47%), general management (47%), and operations and logistics (29%) at the highest rates.
Applying to Business School Without a Business Degree
MBA programs require a bachelor’s degree to gain admission. However, applicants can earn an MBA without a bachelor’s in business.
Some business schools set undergraduate prerequisite courses, generally listed under their admission policies.For example, the Foster School of Business at the University of Washington requires undergraduate courses in calculus, English composition, accounting, economics, and statistical methods.
The MBA program at Wichita State University requires preparatory courses in accounting, marketing, management, and economics. Incoming students who have passed classes in these subjects receive a waiver.
MBA applicants without a business degree may already meet the coursework requirements as part of their majors, general education requirements, or electives. If not, they will need to complete the courses either before applying or before enrolling, depending on the program. This can add time and cost to an MBA degree.
Strategies and Tips for Earning an MBA as a Non-Business Major
Research Prerequisite Requirements
Prospective MBA students should review the admission requirements at schools they’re interested in. Some programs may not list prerequisite business courses, while others offer preparatory courses for admitted MBA students.
Applicants without a business degree can potentially save time and money by researching MBA programs where they already meet the requirements.
Consider Human Skills and Work Experience
Many MBA programs look for more than a high undergraduate GPA. They look for applicants with professional experience and valuable human skills, like teamwork and communication.When applying to an MBA program, consider showcasing these skills through your resume, letters of recommendation, and statement of purpose. Gaining work experience between undergrad and grad school also helps prepare students for an MBA program.
Study for the GMAT
Most MBA programs require you to take the Graduate Management Assessment Test (GMAT). The GMAT tests specific skills and abilities required during an MBA program, including data analysis, reasoning, communication, and problem-solving skills.
As a result, applicants without a business degree should consider investing time into studying for the GMAT. A high GMAT score can reassure the admission committee that you can succeed in a graduate-level business program.
Research Online MBA Programs
According to GMAC data, 29% of incoming MBA students held a bachelor’s degree in the humanities or social sciences in 2021, and another 37% held a STEM degree. Online programs appeal to working professionals and students interested in programs far away.
MBA Alternatives
Before applying to MBA programs, prospective applicants without a business degree should also consider alternative paths.
Gaining professional experience can not only help college graduates increase their salaries but also increase their chances of getting into an MBA program. At many top business schools, MBA students work for five years or more before pursuing a graduate degree.
Depending on your career goals, a specialized master’s program, like a master’s in technology or human resources management, might also be more appropriate than an MBA.
After researching alternative career paths, you may find an MBA offers the best return on investment.
Frequently Asked Questions About MBA Degrees
An MBA, or master of business administration, provides graduate-level training in organizational leadership, management, and strategic decision-making. Most business schools offer MBA specializations in areas like technology, marketing, finance, and human resources. An MBA typically takes two years, though some programs offer a one-year accelerated MBA.
