Considering an MBA for a Career Change even though I have a Business Undergrad Degree?

I hope everyone is staying safe during this pandemic. I have been using this time to think about pursuing an MBA, but I am not sure if it is a great fit for me.

To provide some background on myself, I have an undergrad business degree (supply chain management) from a “Public Ivy” university. I work in the oil & gas industry for a supermajor in supply chain/operations. I’ve been here for four years, but I am looking to try something new. Many energy companies are bureaucratic and the culture is dry – and my growth is starting to slow down. I’d like to leave the industry to pursue banking or consulting. I’ve tried doing this w/o an MBA and I’ve had little luck, despite getting referrals & networking immensely. Does an MBA make sense to make a career change in the business world, even if I already have a solid undergrad business degree?

Does anyone have advice / recommendations? To pursue an MBA, or not to pursue an MBA? Thanks in advance!

7 Comments
 

There are plenty of students at top MBA programs who use an MBA to make a career change. If you've already taken your GMAT/GRE you could take advantage of the extensions that many programs are offering.

A few schools come to mind right now - Darden, NYU, Cornell - all great schools that could allow you to get into banking or consulting.

You might also take a look at some of the 1 year MBA programs - Kellogg 1Y, Emory. These allow you to 'place out' of some of the core curriculum based on your undergrad coursework.

All the best!

Susan Cera Director of MBA Admissions Stratus Admissions Counseling - www.stratusadmissions.com FREE Profile Evaluation - www.stratusadmissions.com/consult
 
Most Helpful

Your pursuit of the MBA makes sense to me. You have a goal (sort of) that it supports. You have the desirable educational background and hopefully good grades. You can take the GRE now and the GMAT hopefully soon. I'd encourage you to clarify your goal for application purposes -- banking or consulting is pretty broad If at all possible, take advantage of the extended deadlines this cycle and apply.

A few free resources to help you:

If you'd like one-on-one guidance, please let me know.

Best, Linda

Linda Abraham President, Accepted | Contact Me | Admissions Consulting
 

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Linda Abraham President, Accepted | Contact Me | Admissions Consulting

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