MBA Employment: A Whopping 95% In U.S.

Only two weeks ago, an IE Business School alum came out with a book entitled The MBA Bubble in which she claimed the degree is overhyped and overvalued. This latest survey by GMAC, which admittedly is a pro-MBA organization, shows that is hardly the case. GMAC said that “regardless of employment status, the vast majority of the Class of 2013 agreed their education developed their skills, expanded their network, and prepared them for the job market.

Outcomes related to business education for the Class of 2013 — Source: Graduate Management Admission Council

“Development of qualitative skills, preparation for leadership positions, and advanced quantitative skills were the top educational outcomes employed alumni cited,” GMAC said. “Key educational outcomes that self-employed alumni reported include development of qualitative skills, learning to work in an international business environment, and increased earning power. Alumni who are still seeking employment agreed their management education helped them develop their qualitative and quantitative skills and prepared them for leadership positions.”

Bottom line: The vast majority of the Class of 2013 (96%) would recommend their program, regardless of employment status, program type attended, or citizenship. Retrospectively, more than nine in 10 (92%) alumni reported they would still have pursued their degree knowing what they know now.

Clearly, the reports of the MBA’s diminishing value have been greatly exaggerated.