Career Benefits That Only Come With a Graduate Degree

Posted by Calling All Optimists on Feb 22, 2020

Deciding to go back to school is a life-changing decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. It is a decision that will not only impact you in the long run but will dominate the next 1 to 3 years—depending on the program you select. Although there’s a lot to consider while making this decision, it’s no secret that a graduate degree allows you to pursue many career destinations and provides additional perks. 

Should you consider a business graduate degree? It really depends on your professional goals and your personal circumstances. So, before you start sifting through your goals to find your answer, let’s first look at why you should consider a business graduate degree in the first place. 

What can you get from a business graduate degree?

Bump in salary

It is proven that people who have a graduate degree are paid more. Yes, this varies depending on the industry, but in the U.S. the salary increase is about 25% with a boost of as much as 150%. Check out our salary calculators to get more information.

Accelerate your career advancement

Earning an MBA or business master’s degree can put you on the fast track to higher-level positions and open the door to new opportunities you weren’t previously qualified for. Among business school alumni, more than 8 in 10 agree that their career has progressed faster than their peers who didn’t go to graduate business schoolⁱ.

Break into a new industry or job function

Did you know that 2 in 5 alumni (39%) work in an industry or job function they never considered prior to business schoolⁱ? A graduate education can expose you to career opportunities you didn’t even know were open to you.

Grow your network

Business graduate school networks are known to be some of the strongest. Your network will extend beyond your classmates and peers to professors and successful leaders. Not only will you surround yourself with people who can help you land your next role, but you might find future business partners or professional advisors who will help guide you toward success.

Gain flexible skills

The business world changes rapidly, and organizational change experts predict the rate of change in business will only accelerate in the future. That means your ability to adapt to a changing marketplace will be critical to your long-term career success. A graduate business degree gives you flexible skills and experiences that are adaptable to many fields, so you can pivot and reframe your skills.

A brand that stands out

Once you complete your degree, you’ll not only earn new skills but you’ll earn a brand for life. Having a graduate degree will help you stand out against the competition and qualify you for new opportunities. It also shows that you are dedicated, take on challenges, and value constant learning.

Still wondering if an MBA is for you? Take our quiz to find out.


2018 Alumni Perspectives Survey: The Value of a Graduate Management Education