Global MBA for Working Professionals: Balancing Career and Education

The main reason why people hesitate to invest in a master’s degree is the amount of time and money it takes. But what if we told you there is a more affordable way to study?

Some of the world’s best universities, schools and colleges offer you the option of studying an online MBA course at almost half the price of a regular MBA degree.

You may be wondering if online MBA courses are valued in the industry.

While online MBA courses are cost-friendly and good for working professionals and part-timers, they hold the same industry value and scope when compared to a regular MBA.

By studying an online MBA at a reputed education provider, you can find great career growth opportunities without the same time constraints as an on-campus MBA 

If you sign up for an online MBA course such as a Global MBA or an MBA in International Business, the chances of finding high-paying jobs and roles in the global market can be very high!

Online MBA courses are also very helpful in aiding you with a high return on your investment. Simply put, you can earn a salary of nearly three times your course fee within a few months or immediately after graduating.

Glassdoor.com reports the average salary for a Global MBA graduate in the UK to be between £21,000 and £36,000 per year.

In this article, we will help you understand why you should choose to study a global MBA and the many benefits and advantages of this course. Here you will also find tips on how to balance work and school with real-life strategies that you can use to study effectively.

Why Working Professionals Should Study a Global MBA Programme

Ever since COVID-19, the demand for competent and resourceful business leaders has been at an all-time high.

One of the key factors that distinguished successful businesses from those that failed during the pandemic was strategic leadership.

The Global MBA course can help you develop this sought-after quality.

What’s even better is that Global MBA online courses allow you to choose from a wide variety of specialisations, one of which is leadership. Leadership is a skill that will serve you throughout your future career.

By investing in a Global MBA course, you can…

• Develop a global mindset:

Global MBA programmes expose you to diverse perspectives and business practices from around the world. You'll gain insights into international markets, cultural nuances, and global leadership strategies.

 

• Enhance your skill set: 

These programmes go beyond traditional business fundamentals. They equip you with specialised skills in areas like international finance, global marketing, and cross-cultural communication.

 

• Expand your network: 

Global MBA courses give you the opportunity to connect with talented students and mentors across the globe from the comfort of your home. This creates valuable networking opportunities with classmates and faculty who can contribute to your professional growth.

 

• Career advancement: 

An MBA signifies a commitment to excellence and opens doors to senior management positions and leadership roles in multinational corporations.

Did you know that MBA graduates make up nearly 40% of all C-Suite executives? CEOs, CFOs, and CTOs are more likely to have an MBA degree compared to other graduate degrees. (Source: FortuneEducation) 

Enrolling on an online degree course has its benefits, however, like every new venture in life, it comes with specific challenges.

 

Challenges Faced by Working Professionals

Balancing the demands of a full-time job with the workload of an MBA programme can be challenging. So how can you balance work and school like a pro?

Here are some tips:

• Time management: 

Finding time for coursework, studying, and attending classes can be difficult. Effective time management skills are crucial for success. 

• Work-life balance: 

Maintaining a healthy balance between work, studies, and personal life is essential to avoid burnout.

• Financial investment: 

The cost of an MBA programme can be a significant financial burden. Plan your finances and ensure that you are confident about your investment in the course. Explore scholarships, financial aid options, and employer tuition reimbursement programmes to find the best finance options.

Strategies for Balancing Career and Education

With careful planning and discipline, you can overcome these challenges.

Here are some strategies for success in online MBA programmes:

• Choose the right programme: 

Select from the best full-time or part-time online MBA programmes designed for working professionals. These courses offer flexible schedules and help you with online coursework through user-friendly learning management systems.

 

• Prioritise effectively: 

Develop strong time management skills. Create a study schedule, utilise your free time efficiently, and communicate your commitments clearly to your boss and family. Some of the best online MBA programmes offer you active help with structuring your timetable.

• Seek support: 

Don't be afraid to use available resources. Utilise your free office hours, form study groups with classmates, and seek guidance from professors or academic advisors.

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle: 

Prioritise your well-being! Eat well and be in touch with your body. Be sure to get enough sleep, and schedule time for relaxation to manage stress and maintain focus. Following these tips, you can beat exam stress and anxiety. 

Types of MBA Programmes Suitable for Working Professionals

• Online MBA programmes: 

These programmes offer maximum flexibility with coursework delivered entirely online. They are ideal for professionals with demanding travel schedules or geographically dispersed work locations.

• Part-time MBA programmes:

These programmes offer evening or weekend classes, allowing you to balance work and studies on a more flexible yet structured schedule.

• Executive MBA programmes: 

These programmes cater to senior-level executives with extensive work experience. They often involve intensive modules or weekend residencies, coupled with online learning components. If you choose to specialise in International MBA executive courses, this can help you be ready for the global market. 

Benefits of Pursuing an MBA While Working

The benefits of a Global MBA extend far beyond just acquiring new knowledge and skills.

Here are some key advantages:

• Immediate application of knowledge: 

You can apply what you learn in your MBA programme directly to your current work, enhancing your performance and demonstrating value to your employer.

• Increased earning potential: 

Statistics show that MBA graduates typically command higher salaries compared to non-MBA holders. The average salary for MBA degree holders in the UK is around £21,000 to £36,000 per year according to Glassdoor.com. Average salaries for graduate students in other courses start at £16,000. (Source: savethestudent)

 

• Enhanced job security: 

An MBA strengthens your resume and makes you a more competitive candidate in the job market.

• Career development: 

The skills and knowledge acquired through a Global MBA programme open doors to a wider range of career opportunities in both national and international markets.

Professional Development Opportunities

Global MBA programmes go beyond foundational business knowledge, as they offer specialised tracks and electives which you can use to advance your career. Here are some exciting options:

• Industry-specific tracks: 

Deepen your expertise in areas like healthcare management (Master’s in Public Health), information technology(Cybersecurity For Managers and Stakeholders) digital skills(Digital Academy), or entrepreneurship. Gain industry-specific knowledge and skills highly sought after by employers in your chosen field. Management courses for working professionals help you advance into a specified field of interest in the industry.

 

• Functional concentrations: 

Dive deeper into specific business functions like finance, marketing, or human resources. These concentrations allow you to develop advanced capabilities in a particular area, making you an asset for companies requiring specialised talent.

• Global leadership courses: 

Hone your leadership skills on a global scale. Learn how to navigate cultural differences, manage diverse teams, and lead effectively in a complex international business environment.

• Business analytics and big data: 

Gain expertise in analysing large datasets and leveraging data-driven insights for strategic decision-making. This specialisation is highly relevant in today's data-driven business world.

In conclusion, a Global MBA course is a worthy investment in your future. If you want to choose a good online MBA course for yourself, consider the Global MBA course at The London School of Business and Finance, UK (LSBF).

LSBF is well renowned across the globe and is placed among the top business schools in the world today.