About mba
An mba is one of the most popular master’s degrees. With applications for MBA programs reopening this fall, we spoke with the Vanderbilt MBA recruiting and admissions team to get answers to frequently asked questions about this degree.
A well-rounded MBA program provides a strong foundation for a career in business management, with a curriculum that includes all the key disciplines: accounting and finance; leadership and organizational behavior; marketing; technology and operations management; strategy; economics; and entrepreneurship and innovation. An MBA also helps hone skills that are essential to professional success, including critical thinking and problem-solving, communication, and networking.
Whether you’re looking to move up the career ladder in your current industry or are interested in making a change, an MBA can open doors that may not be available otherwise. Many students also use their MBA to explore entrepreneurial paths, either by launching their own companies or joining early-stage startups led by fellow MBA alums.
Getting an MBA can require considerable time and commitment, as you must balance your full-time job with your studies. Depending on the type of MBA you pursue, there are two ways to complete the program: by studying full time on campus or by taking classes online. In a full-time program, you typically study over two years, with a three to four month break in between years. The online option is often best for those who wish to continue working during their MBA studies.