What is an MBA? A Comprehensive Guide to the Most Sought-After Business Degrees

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What to look for when searching for a master’s in business administration program

Earning a master’s in business administration (MBA) degree is a smart decision to help ensure your future growth, increase your earnings potential and expand your world of professional and personal opportunities.

Seeking answers to questions you have about earning an MBA degree and what’s best for you now and in the future is an important first step. You likely want to know about the time required to obtain an MBA, how to get help and guidance, how and where best to pursue it and how the work can be completed in a way that suits your lifestyle, availability and flexibility. Whether you are looking for top online MBA programs or in-person options, we’re here to help guide your search.

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What is an MBA?

An MBA is a highly recognized credential in the business world for enhancing knowledge and career potential and a logical next step for business professionals or those hoping to advance in their field. Typically, it is the most sought-after graduate business degree due to its developmental value and enhanced professional status.

The MBA course structure typically covers accounting, finance, marketing and operations, as well as leadership and communication skills. It can be a stepping stone to managerial and leadership roles, as well as executive-level jobs. An MBA on a résumé typically demonstrates proof of business expertise and an ability to handle critical business decisions and planning. In some organizations, employees who earn an MBA or other advanced business degree may be eligible for additional compensation, as well as enhanced growth potential.

What are the types of MBAs?

There are different types of MBA programs, such as online, flexible and competency-based degrees, giving you options to determine your MBA program length. MBAs can also be earned with specialized certificates, giving graduates focused knowledge in critical business functions.  
Unlike undergraduate degrees in business, which tend to focus on foundational knowledge, MBA programs emphasize more in-depth expertise. Additionally, competency-based degrees are designed for professionals with a business degree and experience working in the field, allowing students to apply existing skills and experience to their degree coursework.

What is the difference between an MBA and other business master’s degrees?

An MBA is a master’s degree that covers multiple areas of business for a comprehensive understanding of operations. The best MBA programs prepare students to manage business operations effectively and successfully by emphasizing strategic planning, marketing analysis, entrepreneurship and more.

An MBA program typically requires a bachelor’s degree for admission. However, every university has its own admissions requirements. Some universities require prospective students to take certain courses before enrolling if they have a nonbusiness-related undergraduate degree.

What guidance is available to help me navigate the MBA degree process?

At Sacred Heart University, our MBA admissions professionals help design a path that best suits lifestyle, needs and interests. This one-on-one support and guidance helps ensure that the path chosen best fits the candidate’s interests and personal needs.

We offer full-time or part-time MBA programs. Both options are presented fully online or in person, with weeknight courses providing an exceptional learning experience taught by respected, experienced faculty. SHU also offers a six-week online summer session.

Why should I choose Sacred Heart University to earn my MBA degree?

At SHU, our accredited MBA program courses apply theory to real-world business problems and simulations. Our Integrated Core, team-taught by three senior faculty members, offers hands-on consulting experience, with students working on interdisciplinary teams. Our Capstone course, completed in conjunction with the Center for Nonprofit Organizations at SHU, provides free strategic consulting projects to numerous nonprofit organizations in the Connecticut area.  
The MBA at SHU—named one of Princeton Reviews’ best in 2024—is part of the Jack Welch College of Business & Technology, which is accredited by AACSB International, the premier global accrediting body for business schools. As a student, you will have access to world-class facilities including the IDEA Lab, AI Lab and Finance Lab. You will learn from professors with years of corporate experience; 95% of our full-time faculty also have doctoral degrees.

In the past five years, 349 MBA students at SHU completed 76 projects and spent 26,175 consulting hours for nonprofit organizations in Connecticut. Also, SHU offers a variety of MBA specializations, including:

  • Accounting
  • Artificial intelligence
  • Business analytics
  • Finance
  • Healthcare administration
  • Innovation management
  • Digital marketing
  • Strategic human resource management
  • Applied learning and societal impact

The choice is yours, but it begins with pertinent questions and reliable answers

The most successful companies and successful leaders are the ones that know how to manage the most valuable assets a company has: its people, their skills and their creativity. Earning your MBA degree is key to achieving this level of leadership. And earning it at SHU helps open doors to continued personal and professional growth and long-term success.

Find out if Sacred Heart University’s flexible, full- and part-time programs are right for you. Reach out to Ed Nassr, associate director of graduate admissions, at 203-396-6877, nassre@sacredheart.edu or schedule a virtual appointment today! 

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