Is an MBA worth it? Deciding whether to pursue an MBA is a big step that requires weighing the costs, benefits, and long-term impact on your career. An MBA can open doors to higher salaries, leadership roles, and expanded professional networks, but its value depends on your career goals, industry, and personal aspirations.
If you're looking to accelerate your career, switch industries, or gain specialized business expertise, an MBA can provide the skills and credentials to make that leap. Many graduates see significant financial returns, increased earning potential, and access to executive roles. Beyond salary, an MBA equips you with strategic thinking, leadership abilities, and a network of professionals that can shape your career for years to come. After graduating from Mount Union’s MBA program, Rebecca Puckrin ’14, M’23, seized the opportunity to transform her career path by transitioning into a new role within a different industry. Discover more about Rebecca’s MBA program journey and her remarkable achievements.
"The MBA program influenced my career trajectory and opened opportunities for changing industries/roles." - Rebecca Puckrin ’14, M’23
However, the investment—both in time and money—means it’s important to consider factors like your target industry, the reputation of the program, and your career trajectory. The right MBA can be a game-changer, but understanding how it aligns with your goals is key to determining if it’s worth it for you.
MBA Career Paths and Salaries: Key Benefits of Earning an MBA
Earning your MBA is a powerful step for professionals aiming for higher salaries, leadership roles, and career growth across industries. It equips graduates with specialized skills and strong networking opportunities, making them highly valuable in the job market.
One of the biggest financial benefits of an MBA is its impact on salary potential. In 2024, the median starting salary for graduates was projected at $20,000—$30,000 higher than experienced hires without an MBA and $50,000 more than those with only a bachelor's degree, according to a Graduate Management Admissions Council (GMAC) survey. ZipRecruiter lists the average annual pay for the MBA jobs category in the U.S. at $165,372. While they are seeing salaries as high as $241,000 and as low as $84,500, most salaries are falling between $125,000 and $200,000 a year. To maximize your salary in a specific industry, you should choose an MBA program focused on that discipline. The coursework and academic outcomes of those programs are tailored to that industry.
Post-MBA salaries vary widely by industry, with median salaries on the highest end in the consulting and finance industries being $190,000 and $175,000, respectively, according to The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. An MBA in leadership and innovation can be a path for those looking to elevate their careers by gaining the expertise and acumen that are essential for business leaders in any field.
Salaries in the tech industry are also on the higher end at over $160,000. MBA degrees in the tech industry are also among the fastest-growing. An MBA in business analytics is a good option for those looking to pursue a career in data analysis, forecasting, and strategic planning. For those looking to grow a career in the healthcare industry, the median salary for MBA earners is $155,000. An MBA in strategic healthcare administration is a great choice for those eager to progress their career by learning to navigate the complexities of healthcare organizations and drive positive outcomes.
Beyond salary, an MBA enhances professional credibility, career flexibility, and long-term earning potential, making it a strong investment for those looking to excel in their field.
Considerations Before Pursuing an MBA
Before deciding if an MBA is worth it, it’s crucial to assess your career goals and aspirations. Consider whether an MBA aligns with your professional objectives and the specific skills you wish to acquire. Reflect on how this degree can help you advance in your current role or pivot to a new field. Mount Union's online MBA program is designed to equip you with the practical knowledge and leadership skills needed to thrive in today’s competitive business landscape.
The time and financial commitment required for an MBA are significant factors to consider. Balancing tuition fees, books, and other expenses with your financial situation is essential. Mount Union offers flexible payment plans and financial aid options to ease this burden, allowing you to focus on your studies without overwhelming financial stress. Additionally, balancing work, study, and personal life can be challenging. Our MBA program accommodates working professionals, offering evening and online classes that fit into your busy schedule. This approach ensures you can maintain your job and personal responsibilities while pursuing your degree, making it a worthwhile investment in your future.
The outlook for MBA graduates in 2025 is strong, with growing demand in industries such as healthcare, sustainability, technology, and renewable energy. Consulting and financial services will remain key employers seeking professionals who can manage the economic complexities, while growth in the healthcare field is expected due to demographic shifts. With strong job prospects, competitive salaries, and future-focused curricula, an MBA is a smart investment for career growth and leadership advancement.
The Growing Value of an Online MBA
The perception of online MBA degrees has improved dramatically, making them a valuable and widely accepted path to career advancement. Employers increasingly recognize that reputable online programs offer the same high-quality education, essential business skills, and leadership training as traditional on-campus MBAs. With flexible learning formats, online MBAs enable working professionals to gain the skills and experience needed to take their careers to a new level while balancing the demands of life.
Additionally, online programs typically cost less than in-person MBAs by eliminating expenses like campus housing, commuting, and facility fees, making them a more affordable yet equally rigorous option. While the cost of programs varies widely for a variety of reasons, including reputation, public or private, in-state or out-of-state, and others, full-time online programs average $52,220 per year compared to $93,320 per year for full-time in-person programs, making them a more budget-friendly choice for students, according to bestcolleges.com. Some MBA programs can reach higher than $100,000, while others may come in under $30,000. Mount Union's MBA program stands out as an affordable option, offering excellent value while maintaining a strong reputation for preparing students for successful careers as leaders in business.
With growing employer confidence, strong career prospects, greater flexibility, and cost savings, an online MBA is a smart investment for professionals looking to advance their careers and stand out in today’s evolving business landscape.
Why an MBA is a Smart Investment for Your Future
An MBA can be a valuable investment, offering significant financial returns, career growth, and leadership opportunities. While time and money can be a top consideration, the benefits, including higher salaries and enhanced skills, often outweigh the costs. With concentrations in business analytics, leadership and innovation, and strategic healthcare administration, Mount Union’s MBA program provides a cost-effective and flexible path to success, with a reputation for equipping graduates with the expertise and leadership abilities to excel in their careers. Whether you pursue an online or in-person program, an MBA can be a powerful steppingstone toward achieving your professional goals.
As the inaugural MBA Director, I am excited most about creating a unique approach to graduate learning that applies practical real-world strategies to managerial practice
