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What An MBA Curriculum Can Teach You

You’re interested in pursuing an MBA, but you’re unsure what you’ll learn in classes.

Ilana Kowarski, a reporter at US News, recently spoke to experts about what typical MBA courses cover.

“The typical core classes in an MBA program provide exposure to the various cross-functional disciplines in business and give students a strong foundation in business fundamentals,” Shaifali Aggarwal, founder and CEO of the admissions consulting firm Ivy Groupe, tells US News.

A COMPREHENSIVE FOUNDATION

One of the benefits of the MBA is that it gives you the opportunity to learn nearly every aspect of business.

Daniel Titterington, a West Point grad and MBA student at Cornell University’s Johnson Graduate School of Management, says an MBA is helping him build analytical, functional, and social skills.

“Pursuing an MBA affords me the opportunity to become better-versed in the language of data analytics, acquire formal skills in operations management, and take the time necessary to become better at the art of networking, while learning the nuances of a culture outside of the military,” Titterington tells P&Q.

MBAs can often explore business fundamentals through electives and core classes.

“Electives often include courses that delve deeper into these key areas,” Stephanie Shayne, director of graduate programs at Husson University’s College of Business in Maine, tells US News. “For example, these could include investment analysis or social media marketing. In addition, programs often offer industry-specific courses like nonprofit management or health care management, as well as courses in other functional areas of business such as human resource management and operations management.”

EMPHASIS ON SOFT SKILLS

While you will surely find MBA courses that teach you hard skills, such as accounting and finance, experts say the best courses are those that emphasize soft skills.

“MBA students tell us that the most valuable courses are the ones focused on soft skill development, which prepare them to lead teams, negotiate with partners, manage upward, and become confident public speakers,” David White, a founding partner at Menlo Coaching, an MBA admissions consulting firm, tells US News.

Soft skills, which include interpersonal skills, teamwork, and project management, are increasingly growing in demand in the business world.

“To enhance soft skills, it takes a conscious effort, ongoing practice, and commitment to improve your soft skills through self-development,” according to Top MBA. “Although hard skills may look impressive on your CV, it’s the soft skills that will set you apart from fellow candidates.”

Sources: US News, Poets & Quants, Top MBA

 

 

 

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