Entering an MBA program is a great step towards success in corporate employment. But upon acceptance, students are faced with a big question; which is a better degree: a finance MBA or an MBA in marketing? The two are tied so closely together that it can be difficult to sort out their differences, but once these degrees are completed they lead to different career paths. When choosing between the two, consider your own personality as well as the current job market.
Consider Personal Attributes
When sorting our your personal feelings about one degree over the other, consider what your personal attributes bring to the table of each one. If you are a more creative soul, you will probably excel in marketing. If you prefer the cold hard facts of numbers, finance is probably the degree for you.
US News & World Report also suggests looking to your past to decide what you want for your future. Use your previous work experience as an example of what you may come across in your future career. If certain aspects of that work experience stand out to you more than others, choose a degree that will expand those skills and allow you to grow within them. Additionally, if there is a company that you deeply hope to work for, do some research and find out what they are looking for. Networking with individuals working in that industry can help indicate what you need to do to prepare for that career.
The Job Market
According to Monster, an MBA in marketing is not required for many of the available jobs. However, the job market has become increasingly more competitive as many graduates of marketing were unable to find jobs and opted to go for the MBA. The drive to get a marketing MBA is much less than that of a finance MBA as the entry-level job market does not require it. Experience in the industry will lend itself to career advancement. There are certain advantages to pursuing a marketing MBA including a higher salary and consideration for advancement. However, these are not guaranteed to any employee that is just beginning their career. Those with MBAs still have to use industry experience to prove themselves worthy of job advancement and a hefty salary.
A career in finance is another matter altogether. Entry-level finance jobs often require an MBA to be considered for employment. With the job market being so competitive as more people opt to pursue graduate degrees, not having an MBA in your chosen field can be detrimental. Finance is an industry that relies heavily on the ability of its employees to balance numbers and plan budgets effectively. Corporate employers often distrust candidates without an MBA because they fear that they do not have the necessary skills to work in the industry. Additionally, further certification is often required of finance MBA students to stay competitive. The Chartered Financial Analyst certification certainly sets you apart from the crowd.
The question remains. Which degree is better: finance MBA or an MBA in marketing? The answer is left to you. There is no right answer to this question. Decide to which career you wish to orient yourself and follow your passions.
Additional Reading: The Top 10 Best Online MBA in Marketing Programs
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