How Much Can I Earn After I Get an MBA for 2025?

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

With the global economy on the road to recovery since the pandemic, there has been an increase in demand for business school graduates. In fact, nine in ten corporate recruiters aim to hire more MBA graduates (Graduate Management Admission Council, 2022). This resurgence in demand is expected to impact the average MBA salary positively.

In today’s business landscape, companies need MBA graduates more than ever to help in strategic decision-making. With their expertise, organizations can easily navigate changing market demands and adapt as digital transformation efforts accelerate. With these in mind, it is no longer surprising that a business administration major can anticipate promising career prospects and competitive compensation packages.

To help you get an idea about the current salary range in the industry, our research team gathered valuable information that will examine how much graduates can earn after getting their MBA.

MBA Salary Table of Contents

Average MBA Salary and Career Outlook for 2025
Factors That Impact MBA Salary
Average MBA Salary for Different Job Roles
Employment Profile for MBA Graduates
How can networking and mentorship enhance MBA career outcomes?
What are the long-term career benefits of earning an MBA?
How do online executive MBA programs compare with traditional MBA programs?
What emerging trends are reshaping MBA career outcomes?
Is specializing in emerging technologies beneficial for MBA graduates?
What complementary qualifications can further enhance an MBA career?
What are the most in-demand skills for MBA graduates?
How to choose the most affordable online MBA program with a high ROI?
How can I maximize my earning potential with an MBA?
Is getting an MBA worth it?
Should I consider pursuing a DBA after my MBA?

Average MBA Salary and Career Outlook for 2025

The average MBA salary in 2020 was $115,000, although it dropped to $105,000 three months into the COVID-19 pandemic (Graduate Management Admission Council, 2022). Fortunately, it bounced back to pre-pandemic level by 2022.

Aside from that, some of the popular jobs for MBA graduates are projected to grow faster than average. Employment opportunities for finance managers alone are expected to increase by 17% between 2021 and 2031 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). Relatively, the average finance job salary for MBA graduates is $131,710.

Job Roles

Average Annual Salary

Projected Job Outlook

Chief Executives

$246,440

Financial Managers

$139,790

17%

Management Analysts

$104,660

11%

Accountants and Auditors

$86,740

Human Resources Specialists

$73,080

Factors That Impact MBA Salary

Several factors impact the average MBA salary. This includes the type of MBA program, area of specialization, the business school attended, and more. By knowing what factors impact MBA average salary, students can determine what they need to do to increase their income potential.

Choice of B-School

The salary potential of MBA graduates is influenced by their choice of business school (also known as “B-School). One reason is that at least 44% of recruiters agree that MBA graduates are more competitive than those with micro-credentials. (Graduate Management Admission Council, 2022). In line with this, the business schools popular among recruiters have a job offer acceptance rate of at least 96% (Clear Admit, 2021).

Type of MBA

What do you learn in MBA program? B-schools provide a range of MBA options for students. These options include full-time traditional MBA programs, executive MBAs, part-time MBAs, and accelerated one-year MBAs. The program duration ranges from one to three years, depending on the type of MBA.

Moreover, a student’s preferred program can also affect their MBA degree salary. Executive MBA programs specifically cater to experienced business leaders aiming for top decision-making positions. Professionals with an executive MBA earn between $231,143 and $272,160 annually (Executive MBA Council, 2022).

Area of Specialization

MBA students can specialize in various fields, such as finance, entrepreneurship, healthcare management, and sustainability. As part of their accredited MBA programs, students engage in additional coursework tailored to their chosen specialization. They may also seek internships in their respective fields, enabling them to gain practical experience. These specializations equip graduates with the skills and knowledge needed for focused career paths.

However, their area of specialization can also impact their average MBA salary potential. According to an employment statistics report of Dartmouth University’s Tuck School of Business, the top-paying industries for MBA graduates are:

Consulting: $175,000
Financial services: $175,000
Technology: $140,000
Health care, pharmaceutical, and biotech: $130,000
Consumer goods and retail: $126,000

Work Experience

MBA graduates with work experience before earning their degree tend to earn higher starting salaries. For instance, CEOs with less than one year of work experience earn an average MBA starting salary of $757,248 annually (Salary.com, n.d.). On the other hand, CEOs with at least two decades of experience earn at least $880,000 yearly.

Location

Another factor that can impact the average MBA salary is employment location. The chief executive officer salary in New Jersey for MBA graduates averages $414,350 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). On the other hand, a CEO with an MBA degree in Mississippi earns an average of $137,330 annually.

Average MBA Salary for Different Job Roles

There are 750 colleges and universities that offer MBA programs worldwide. In line with this, 47.4% of MBA students are enrolled full-time, while 52.6% are enrolled part-time (AACSB, 2021).

The most common reason for pursuing graduate business degree types is to improve their job prospects and boost the average MBA salary. Among MBA graduates, 58.3% were seeking employment and 69.4% accepted job offers upon graduation (AACSB, 2021). Popular careers with an MBA include finance managers, top executives, and management analysts.

Job Roles

Annual Mean Wage

Hourly Mean Wage

Chief Executives

$246,440

$118.48

Financial Managers

$139,790

$67.21

Management Analysts

$104,660

$50.32

Accountants and Auditors

$86,740

$41.70

Human Resources Specialists

$73,080

$35.13

Employment Profile for MBA Graduates

As mentioned, the average MBA salary, including that of an MBA in human resources, is $120,000 in 2022 (Graduate Management Admission Council, 2022). However, factors like experience level, education, and industry roles can impact someone’s income. Knowing these factors can help someone advance their career and boost their earnings.

Salary of MBA Graduates by Location

One factor that can impact a master of business administration salary is location. The top-paying state for MBA graduates is Washington. Those with master’s in business degrees that work in this state earn an average of $78.31 per hour (ZipRecruiter, n.d.). On the other hand, Arkansas is the lowest-paying state for MBA degree holders. Those who work in this state earn $49.65 hourly.

Salary of MBA Graduates by Experience Level

Years of experience can also impact the average MBA salary. For instance, a chief executive officer earns an average of $823,245 annually (Salary.com, n.d.). However, it can vary depending on their years of experience in that particular role.

Salary of MBA Graduates by Industry

Pursuing an MBA allows graduates to take on different roles. Some are in management, business and financial operations, and sales. Hence, it is possible to boost someone’s average business major salary by switching industries. That said, the top-paying industries for chief executives alone are motion pictures and video industries, media streaming distribution services, and enterprises.

How can networking and mentorship enhance MBA career outcomes?

Leveraging strong professional networks and mentorship initiatives plays a crucial role in accelerating career growth for MBA graduates. By engaging with industry leaders, fellow alumni, and experienced mentors, graduates can gain access to hidden job opportunities and strategic career advice. This dynamic support system also fosters collaborative projects and knowledge sharing that directly contribute to improved career outcomes. Additionally, selecting programs that emphasize relationship-building and mentorship—such as reputable online MBA programs—can provide a competitive advantage in the evolving business landscape.

What are the long-term career benefits of earning an MBA?

Earning an MBA often yields advantages that extend beyond immediate salary enhancements. Graduates gain robust leadership acumen, refined decision-making skills, and the ability to navigate complex business challenges over the long term. These attributes foster career resilience, enabling professionals to adapt to evolving market conditions and emerging industries. A strengthened professional network and enhanced strategic vision open avenues to executive roles and cross-industry opportunities, contributing significantly to sustained career growth. Moreover, aligning long-term aspirations with these intangible benefits can help determine whether pursuing an advanced degree is MBA worth it.

How do online executive MBA programs compare with traditional MBA programs?

Online executive MBA programs are designed to meet the demands of experienced professionals by blending advanced leadership training with flexible, remote learning. These programs typically emphasize strategy, real-time collaboration, and global business acumen in a condensed format that minimizes career disruption while accelerating skill development. Unlike traditional programs, they often integrate interactive digital tools and peer-to-peer networking to simulate real-world executive environments, facilitating quicker application of complex business concepts. Prospective students are encouraged to evaluate program structure, career alignment, and long-term benefits by exploring executive MBA online programs.

What emerging trends are reshaping MBA career outcomes?

MBA programs are increasingly integrating interdisciplinary approaches that leverage digital transformation, data analytics, and sustainable business practices to meet evolving market demands. Employers now value proficiency in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and business analytics, which complement traditional management skills. Additionally, many institutions are offering hybrid credentials that combine an MBA with specialized subjects—for instance, finance certifications are gaining traction, with options for cheap masters in finance further strengthening a candidate’s profile. This evolution in curriculum design ensures graduates are well-equipped to navigate complex, technology-driven business environments while driving innovative solutions in their organizations.

Is specializing in emerging technologies beneficial for MBA graduates?

Emerging technology specializations, including blockchain, cryptocurrency, and fintech, equip MBA graduates with capabilities that meet the growing digital demands of today’s business landscape. These focused tracks allow professionals to gain expertise in disruptive technologies, aiding in strategic innovation and informed decision-making. Acquiring such specialized skills not only enhances career versatility but also meets employer expectations for leaders who fluently translate technological advancements into business value. Investing in technology-driven coursework and certifications, such as a blockchain degree online, provides a distinct competitive advantage in an increasingly tech-centric market.

What complementary qualifications can further enhance an MBA career?

Pursuing supplemental academic credentials can provide MBA graduates with a broader perspective and specialized expertise that further differentiate them in competitive markets. For example, obtaining a business administration degree online can offer a rigorous foundation in business fundamentals, while targeted certifications in areas such as data analytics, digital marketing, or project management can equip professionals to address emerging market needs. This dual approach not only reinforces critical business acumen but also enables graduates to demonstrate versatility and readiness for cross-functional roles in transforming industries.

What are the most in-demand skills for MBA graduates?

MBA graduates are expected to bring a robust set of skills to the workforce, helping organizations thrive in a competitive business environment. Here are some of the top in-demand skills that can significantly enhance an MBA graduate’s employability and salary potential:

Strategic Thinking and Decision-Making: The ability to develop and implement business strategies is essential, enabling companies to navigate market complexities and make informed decisions.
Financial Acumen: Knowledge in budgeting, financial forecasting, and investment analysis allows MBA graduates to contribute effectively to an organization’s financial health and growth.
Data Analytics and Interpretation: Proficiency in data analysis tools and techniques is increasingly valuable, helping businesses harness data insights to drive growth and innovation.
Project Management: Skills in managing projects, timelines, and resources efficiently are highly valued across industries, ensuring successful project completion and alignment with business goals.
Leadership and Team Management: Strong leadership abilities allow MBA graduates to inspire and manage teams effectively, fostering a productive work environment.

These skills help MBA graduates stand out in the job market, making them valuable assets to organizations and boosting their career trajectories.

How to choose the most affordable online MBA program with a high ROI?

Choosing the right online MBA program requires balancing affordability with long-term career benefits. While lower tuition fees may seem attractive, it's essential to assess how the program impacts your earning potential and career trajectory. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make an informed decision:

Compare Tuition Costs and Financial Aid Options: Start by evaluating tuition costs among various programs. Look for institutions offering scholarships, grants, or payment plans that ease the financial burden. Schools with strong alumni networks and career placement services often yield better ROI.
Check Accreditation and Program Reputation: Ensure the MBA program is accredited by recognized agencies. Accreditation not only signifies quality education but also increases employer confidence in your degree. Programs with robust reputations often lead to higher job placement rates and salaries.
Evaluate Specialization and Industry Alignment: Certain MBA specializations, like finance or consulting, typically lead to higher salaries. For instance, many students find online finance MBA programs both cost-effective and lucrative. Explore the cheapest online MBA finance programs to maximize ROI while building expertise in this high-demand field.
Review Graduate Outcomes: Look into metrics such as job placement rates, average starting salaries, and career growth trajectories of alumni. Programs with strong industry connections can provide a significant advantage in competitive fields.

How can I maximize my earning potential with an MBA?

Maximizing your earning potential with an MBA requires a strategic approach beyond simply graduating from a top business school. While factors like your chosen specialization, work experience, and location undoubtedly impact your salary, there are several additional strategies you can use to ensure that you are positioned for the highest-paying roles and long-term career growth. Below are key steps that can help you maximize your earning potential:

Leverage Networking and Alumni Connections: Networking plays a critical role in career advancement. MBA graduates from top business schools often have access to vast alumni networks that can open doors to high-paying job opportunities. Actively engaging with alumni, attending networking events, and participating in industry conferences can help you build valuable relationships that lead to job offers, promotions, or consulting opportunities. The stronger your network, the greater your chances of learning about lucrative job openings before they are publicly advertised.
Pursue High-Demand Specializations: As mentioned, certain MBA specializations, such as finance, consulting, and technology, offer higher salaries. By pursuing a specialization that is in high demand, you position yourself to enter industries and roles that pay more. For instance, a specialization in data analytics or financial management can lead to positions that not only have higher starting salaries but also long-term career growth. Additionally, you can gain an edge by pairing your MBA with technical skills in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence or cybersecurity.
Gain Experience in Top-Paying Industries: In addition to choosing a lucrative specialization, the industry in which you work plays a significant role in determining your salary. Industries such as finance, technology, and healthcare are known for offering higher compensation packages to MBA graduates. Consider seeking internships, consulting projects, or full-time roles in these high-paying industries, which can often lead to higher-paying job opportunities after graduation. Even within industries, certain companies may offer more competitive salaries, so targeting top-tier firms can help increase your earning potential.
Seek Executive Roles and Leadership Positions: As your career progresses, seeking executive or leadership roles within an organization can lead to substantial increases in salary. While entry-level and mid-level roles for MBA graduates are rewarding, the most significant pay increases often come when you move into positions such as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Financial Officer (CFO), or senior management roles. Pursuing an Executive MBA (EMBA) is one way to fast-track your path to these high-level positions, as it is designed for professionals with significant work experience aiming for leadership positions.
Enhance Your Skills with Certifications: Acquiring additional certifications, such as Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or Project Management Professional (PMP), can significantly enhance your marketability and salary potential. These certifications demonstrate to employers that you have specialized expertise in areas that are highly valued by companies. Many top-paying job roles, especially in finance and consulting, prefer candidates who hold these certifications alongside their MBA.
Consider International Opportunities: If you're willing to relocate, pursuing an MBA with an eye on international opportunities can also boost your earning potential. Countries such as Switzerland, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates offer competitive salaries for MBA graduates, particularly in global industries like finance and consulting. Expanding your job search to include international firms and roles can help you secure positions with higher compensation, as well as enrich your career with global experience.
Be Strategic About Job Negotiations: Salary negotiations are a critical skill for maximizing your earning potential. When you receive a job offer, don't simply accept the initial salary. Use industry salary benchmarks and your unique qualifications to negotiate for higher compensation. Additionally, consider the full benefits package, including performance bonuses, stock options, and retirement plans, as these factors can significantly enhance your total compensation.
Continue Your Education and Skill Development: Lastly, never stop learning. Many MBA graduates who continue to pursue professional development through workshops, online courses, and certifications are able to command higher salaries. By staying updated on the latest business trends, technological advancements, and management strategies, you demonstrate to employers that you are committed to continuous improvement, which increases your value in the job market.

If you're looking for an affordable way to enhance your career prospects, consider exploring an online MBA under 30K that offers a high return on investment while allowing you to balance work and studies. Many online programs offer specializations that cater to in-demand sectors, enabling you to align your degree with lucrative opportunities.

Is getting an MBA worth it?

The cost of pursuing a master’s degree ranges from $12,394 to $28,445, depending on whether the student is enrolled in a public or private college or university (National Center for Education Statistics, 2021). That said, determining whether getting an MBA is worth it depends on various factors. This includes a student’s career aspirations and personal circumstances.

Considering the average MBA salary and the available business degree jobs, pursuing an MBA can often be a valuable investment. That is because they can earn an average of $115,000 per year (Graduate Management Admission Council, 2022). It can go higher based on the factors discussed earlier.

Moreover, 46% of recruiters in the US believe that the demand for business school graduates will increase within the next five years (Graduate Management Admission Council, 2022). Their confidence in business school hires is due to the MBA talent’s excellent communication skills, versatile skill set, and strategic thinking.

Ultimately, MBA students should carefully evaluate their career goals, financial situation, and personal interests before deciding whether getting an MBA is the right choice and if the online MBA costs are within your budget.

Should I consider pursuing a DBA after my MBA?

Pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) can provide an advanced platform for MBA graduates seeking to deepen their strategic insights and research capabilities. This additional qualification differentiates professionals by offering rigorous analytical skills that support evidence-based decision-making and innovative leadership. By combining real-world business experience with doctoral research, graduates can position themselves as thought leaders in both academic and corporate environments. For those interested in exploring this advanced pathway, consider reviewing cheap online DBA programs to assess affordable options that align with your career advancement goals.

Earn an MBA to Boost Your Career

For students wondering what is master’s degree in business, it is an advanced program that equips them with valuable skills and knowledge. These acquired skills can open doors to a wide range of lucrative career opportunities.

The average MBA salary and the potential for higher earnings make pursuing such a program attractive for many students. However, individual outcomes can vary based on a variety of factors. While all MBA programs will offer the same benefits—helping you further understand the business landscape, honing new professional skills, and securing more job opportunities—it is still important to research your program options. There is also scholership for MBA to look into. After all, your choice of school, specialization, and program may have an impact on the potential return on investment for your academic endeavor.

Key Insights

High Demand for MBA Graduates: Corporate recruiters are actively seeking MBA graduates, with 90% aiming to hire more in 2022. This high demand is expected to positively impact average MBA salaries.
Competitive Salaries: The average MBA salary in 2022 rebounded to $115,000, post-pandemic. Specializations in consulting, financial services, and technology offer some of the highest salaries.
Influence of Business School: The choice of business school significantly impacts salary potential, with top-tier schools showing high job offer acceptance rates.
Specialization Matters: Areas of specialization, such as finance, healthcare management, and consulting, can greatly affect salary prospects and career growth.
Geographic Variability: Salary outcomes for MBA graduates vary widely by location, with states like Washington offering higher average wages compared to others like Arkansas.
Work Experience: Prior work experience can boost starting salaries, particularly for executive roles. Seasoned professionals with an MBA can command significantly higher wages.
Diverse Job Roles: MBA graduates find opportunities in various sectors, including finance, management, human resources, and consulting, each with differing salary scales.

FAQ

What is the average salary for MBA graduates in 2022? The average salary for MBA graduates in 2022 was $115,000, according to the Graduate Management Admission Council.
Which factors impact MBA salary the most? Several factors impact MBA salary, including the choice of business school, type of MBA program, area of specialization, work experience, and geographic location.
How does the choice of business school affect MBA salary? Graduates from top-tier business schools tend to receive higher job offers and acceptance rates, with salaries influenced by the school's reputation and network.
What types of MBA programs are available? MBA programs include full-time traditional MBAs, executive MBAs, part-time MBAs, and accelerated one-year MBAs, each catering to different career stages and goals.
How do specializations affect MBA salaries? Specializations in fields such as consulting, financial services, technology, and healthcare management offer higher salary prospects due to the specific skills and expertise they provide.
What is the job outlook for MBA graduates? Popular job roles for MBA graduates, such as finance managers, chief executives, and management analysts, are projected to grow faster than the average job growth rate.
What are the highest-paying industries for MBA graduates? Consulting, financial services, and technology are among the top-paying industries for MBA graduates, with consulting and financial services offering median salaries of $175,000.
Does work experience influence MBA salaries? Yes, MBA graduates with prior work experience tend to earn higher starting salaries, with significant increases for those in executive roles.
How does geographic location impact MBA salaries? Geographic location plays a crucial role in salary variation, with states like Washington offering higher average wages compared to states like Arkansas.
What are the top job roles for MBA graduates? Top job roles include chief executives, financial managers, management analysts, accountants, auditors, and human resources specialists, each with varying salary scales.
Is getting an MBA worth the investment? Pursuing an MBA can be a valuable investment due to the potential for higher earnings, better job prospects, and career advancement opportunities. However, individual outcomes depend on factors like career goals, financial situation, and chosen specialization.
What should I consider when choosing an MBA program? When choosing an MBA program, consider factors such as the reputation of the business school, available specializations, program duration, cost, and potential return on investment.