MBA

If you are looking to get ahead in business, an MBA can be the ticket to the top, so to speak. A Master of Business Administration is considered one of the most versatile of college degrees, particularly for those hoping to move up the ladder in the business world. Considered to be one of the most prestigious degrees in the field, it helps a person move into management positions by demonstrating on paper that they have the ability to lead. Those who have earned this degree spend their graduate years studying the theory and application of the principles of business and management.

One of the main reasons students choose to attend graduate school to earn an MBA is the hope of increasing their earning potential and climb up the corporate ranks. Though having an MBA is beneficial in almost any management position, the degree is often a requirement in executive and senior management positions. Some companies will not even consider an applicant for these positions if he or she does not have an MBA.

Though many of those who choose to earn an MBA and pursue management positions are already employed in the business field, an aptitude test could help them find out if they have the capacity to lead; for those not in the field, a career placement test can give them guidance to ensure they have the ability to succeed in business classes.

Some salary guides estimate that an MBA could be worth about $10,000 to $30,000 a year more than a bachelor's degree, though this could vary much less or much more depending upon the location that the job, the management level of the position, the reputation of the graduate school and the industry in which you work. One survey by Accountemps, a global temporary staffing service for accounting and finance professionals, showed that 80 percent of the executives who responded said that an MBA was still important for those hoping to reach senior management within most companies. Additionally, the degree can give more leverage in negotiating raises, job titles and other benefits.

Someone choosing to use an MBA to major as a Senior Financial Analyst could make between $55,000 to $92,000, as a Financial Controller between $53,500 to $123,000 and as a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) between $61,000 and $219,000. The possibilities for employment are limitless with this degree, as is the earning potential.