Do I have to pick an MBA concentration?
The MBA degree is designed to prepare high potential individuals for leadership in a variety of organizations and functions. Although MBA programs provide breadth, they also offer many opportunities for focus. Unless you have related work experience or a prior degree in your desired field, specializing your MBA is recommended. Employers are often willing to pay more for a new hire with an MBA concentration with the expectation that the new hire can dive right into their new position. The Professional’s MBA program at the Loyola University Maryland's Sellinger School of Business offers six comprehensive MBA specializations in the revised MBA curriculum.
In an article on Magoosh.com, CollegeXpress.com blogger Stephanie Farah writes that an MBA specialization “can help you focus your studies on a particular aspect of business and prepare you for a career in a specific field.” The most common concentrations are in marketing and finance. The fast-paced evolution of technology has led to an increased demand for marketing specialization. Learn more about the competitive MBA Marketing program offered at the Sellinger School of Business. FindMBA.com also says an MBA specialization in finance “is typically considered one of the most financially lucrative options.” Learn more about the in-depth MBA in Finance program offered at the Sellinger School of Business.
In a June 2014 article in U.S. News & World Report, MBA consultant Stacy Blackman advises, “adding a concentration to an MBA is a good move for people who know exactly what they want to do with their career.” MBA student blogger Ralf Kloecner changed his MBA concentrations multiple times and, from experience, suggests specializing your MBA, “based on post MBA goals, interests, and the skills you most urgently need.” The bottom line is that MBA concentrations set resumes apart from the competition and play a key role in marketing graduates post MBA.