Gain Valuable Skills in Our MBA Program
Pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) graduate degree is a significant investment into one’s future, requiring learners to dedicate time, energy, and resources. As much of a commitment as completing an MBA program is, it provides immense rewards to graduates, including a diverse skill set that can propel careers to new heights.
The Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota’s MBA program in Minneapolis is designed to equip adult learners with desirable skills that extend beyond the classroom and can be used in roles across today’s dynamic industries. Here, we explore the key skills and knowledge someone can expect to develop while enrolled in our MBA program and the other benefits they can gain.
What to Expect From an MBA Program
An MBA program is intended to prepare students by refining their expertise. The program educates learners on a broad range of skills that are crucial for success in the world of business. Students can expect to develop and polish the following skills:
Leadership and Management
Being an effective leader is essential in achieving organizational success, which MBA programs focus heavily on. Through advanced teachings, learners will develop their leadership capabilities, including how to successfully manage teams, motivate workforces, and make decisions that influence positive change. Leadership studies in MBA programs also cover in-depth complex interpersonal dynamics in the workplace to educate aspiring leaders on how to navigate specific scenarios effectively.
Strategic Thinking and Problem Solving
The ability to make sound business decisions is essential for anyone in leadership or managerial positions, which is why strategic thinking is a cornerstone of MBA programs. Students will learn how to identify and analyze market trends, assess risks, and create long-term strategies that align with current and future company goals.
Encountering complex problems is not out of the ordinary in the business world, which is why knowing how to navigate issues is a critical skill to have. Using case studies and real-world scenarios, students in MBA programs will think critically, evaluate options, and create strategic solutions to fine-tune their problem-solving skills.
Marketing
A strong comprehension of marketing principles is a useful skill for individuals pursuing positions in every level of business, from small startups to large corporations. While completing our MBA program, you will gain knowledge in digital marketing tactics, market research, branding, and evaluating consumer behavior. This provides the necessary skills to strategize and deploy effective marketing strategies.
Communication
Being able to effectively communicate with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders is pivotal in business environments. MBA programs train adult learners how to clearly convey ideas and present them in ways that are easy to translate, such as written reports, presentations, or discussions.
Ethical Behavior and Corporate Responsibility
An increasingly emphasized aspect of business is how organizations conduct themselves and their practices. A negative reputation can drastically impact consumer trust, leading to decreased brand loyalty and sales. MBA programs focus on ethical decision-making and corporate responsibility. Students will learn how to perform profitable business activities that maintain high standards of integrity.
Additional Benefits of the MBA Program at Saint Mary’s
In addition to developing a broader skill set, completing an MBA offers several benefits that help launch individuals professionally and personally. The most significant advantages include:
Career Advancement
One of the most impactful benefits of earning an MBA is the opportunity for career advancement. Organizations often favor candidates with an MBA and most make it a requirement for managerial, executive, and specialized roles. Having a graduate-level business degree can lead to higher-level roles, as it signals expertise and a commitment to continuous learning.
Increased Earning Potential
MBA graduates are compensated for their commitment to advance education with attractive salaries. Typically, those with an MBA earn higher wages than individuals with a bachelor’s degree. Studies project the median starting salary for MBA graduates is $120,000, which is $50,000 higher than job candidates with a bachelor’s degree. This is because the skills and leadership abilities gained while completing the MBA program make graduates more desirable in the job market, translating into better-paying positions.
Networking Opportunities
MBA programs consist of like-minded individuals who wish to advance their careers. By working closely with classmates, professors, alumni, and industry leaders, adult learners have ample opportunities to make connections that can lead to job placement and professional partnerships.
Take Your Education to the Next Level With an MBA
Completing an MBA program pushes individuals, enhancing their leadership capabilities and boosting their attractiveness to potential employers. While enrolled in the hybrid MBA program at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, which combines online and in-person teaching models, adult learners will gain skills to lead confidently and make crucial business decisions.
Those interested in learning about our MBA programs enriched by the Lasallian Catholic heritage can get in touch with our admissions team or request more information to get started today.
