Interview with Business Experts: Answering Students’ Questions About Business Trends

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

The appeal of undergraduate business degrees in the U.S. remains strong despite slight dips in annual conferment. The Education Data Initiative reports that roughly 18.2% of awarded bachelor’s degrees in the U.S. are in business, making it the most sought-after baccalaureate field (Hanson, 2024).

As today’s choices and innovations shape the future of business, students are trained not only to manage organizations but also to emerge as leaders of change capable of tackling significant global issues. Aspiring college students may wonder how a business program can help achieve these goals, and it’s understandable to feel unsure about these expectations.

To prepare you for what lies ahead, we spoke with leading business experts regarding the most frequently asked questions about pursuing a business degree in college. We’ll cover key skills, industry trends, common misconceptions, and career paths and offer tips and strategies that can help you thrive in the competitive world of business.

Experts We Interviewed

David Souder, Ph.D. - Dean, Eli Broad College of Business, Michigan State University (MSU)
Ingrid S. Greene, M.B.A., M.A. - Clinical Professor of Management & Academic Director, Joint Master in Global Entrepreneurial Management, College of Business Administration, Loyola Marymount University (LMU)
David W. Stewart, Ph.D. - Emeritus President’s Professor of Marketing, Loyola Marymount University (LMU) & Founding Director and Current Chair, Marketing Accountability Standards Board (MASB)
Eric N. Smith, Professor of Practice, B. Ch. Eng., MBA - Clinical Finance Professor, A.B. Freeman School of Business & Associate Director of the Tulane Energy Institute, Tulane University

What are the key skills and qualities that successful business students tend to possess or develop during their studies?
How do you see the role of technology evolving in business education, and what should students focus on to stay ahead in this area?
What are some common misconceptions about studying business that you frequently encounter among new students?
Can you highlight some of the emerging trends in business that students should be aware of as they prepare for their careers?
What books, courses, or resources would you recommend to business students to supplement their classroom learning?
In your experience, what are the most significant challenges that business graduates face when entering the job market, and how can they best prepare to overcome these obstacles?
How do I choose the best business school for my career goals?
What are the most common career paths for business graduates?
What are the most promising industries for business graduates?
Is an Executive MBA the Right Next Step for Advancing My Career?
Can accelerated credential programs fast-track my business career?
Can supplemental certifications boost my business career?
Is a Doctorate a Strategic Investment for Advanced Business Leadership?
Can alternative training pathways complement a business degree?
What is the ROI of investing in a business degree?
How can admissions consulting improve my business school application?

What are the key skills and qualities that successful business students tend to possess or develop during their studies?

Certain skills and qualities set successful business students apart. Understanding what abilities they need to cultivate or develop throughout their studies can help them maximize their potential and be prepared for real-world challenges. Here’s what the business experts we interviewed have to offer:

Dr. Souder: “You can think of this in three categories. First, successful business students learn to master the common language for communicating with other business professionals that comes from the core set of classes that everyone takes across the whole business school. Second, successful business students use their choice of major or concentration to build additional depth of knowledge in a specific area, which helps signal where they expect to work after graduation. Third, successful business students develop the personal qualities that allow them to apply their knowledge effectively. Critical thinking, curiosity, and emotional intelligence are among the most valuable general skills, and they can be enhanced through involvement in a broad range of activities outside the classroom and engaging in topics learned outside the business school.”
Prof. Greene: “Some key skills include analytical, communication, and leadership skills. Some key qualities are adaptability, a good work ethic, and a global perspective. I find that the students who excel in the workplace after graduation are the ones who have taken full advantage of their college experience by both participating in and outside of the classroom. They need to allot time to study, but it is also very important to join clubs such as business societies or Greek life.”
Dr. Stewart: “Every student, and indeed every holder of a job, should regularly [assess] what value they are producing and at what cost. Every course a student takes and every job a person holds should be evaluated in terms of how it will help the individual create greater value for themselves and for others in the future. A person’s ability to dispassionately evaluate the value they are creating is an invaluable skill that provides insight into which activities are useful and which are not, when it is time to leave a job, what job should be next, and how time and energy should be invested. This is not just a matter of evaluating a specific course of study or job. Rather, it involves an evaluation of how the course of study or job will uniquely enable the individual, with his or her talents, to maximize value creation.”
Prof. Smith: “Ideally, they will have some experience in business analysis or they will develop such experience by working on projects while in our energy program. Typically, our graduate students work on real-world projects provided by outside sources recruited by our professors.”

Data and business analyses are relevant hard skills, especially in an age where data is abundant and drives decision-making. These skills help students interpret complex information, identify trends, forecast market developments, optimize operations, and provide actionable insights into organizations.

However, equally important are skills and qualities not technically learned in the four walls of the classroom. A study by the World Economic Forum reveals that employers prioritize candidates with creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, digital skills, and strong interpersonal and socio-emotional skills.

Additionally, a global survey indicates that 73.2% of companies anticipate critical thinking to become the most important skill by 2027 (Statista, 2023).

Dr. Souder and Prof. Greene underscore the importance of these skills as they enable students to articulate their ideas, collaborate in multicultural teams, address conflicts, and cultivate a mindset focused on the long-term consequences of their actions.

Many of these abilities are honed in non-traditional settings, which is why experiences outside the classroom are crucial for the comprehensive development of business students’ capabilities. Whether students are taking undergraduate business administration degrees or online DBA programs, they are expected to have a range of 21st-century skills to solve complex issues.

In the chart below, we further dive into the other skills that employers deem increasingly important in today's job market.

How do you see the role of technology evolving in business education, and what should students focus on to stay ahead in this area?

Technology has been an essential tool in education, now more than ever. Its integration and effectiveness within academic systems rely heavily on the active participation of both educators and students. The experts we interviewed explain how:

Dr. Souder: “Staying current with the latest technology is valuable throughout a current student’s entire career. It makes sense to learn state-of-the-art technology while in business school, but if that’s when you stop learning, your skills will be obsolete in a decade. The specific type of technology is less important to learn than developing a good sense of when to use technology to speed up your work and when to rely on human creativity to inspire something new.”
Prof. Greene: “The role of technology is evolving via various digital learning platforms, data analytics tools, and fintech software. Areas to focus on include AI, ethical use of technology, and blockchain technology. I use two to three software tools in my classes to include a learning management system, peer review, and case simulations. I also think that the jobs of the future will require that students are well-prepared in understanding how to use multiple tools at one time, plus they know the right questions to ask when evaluating a new technology.”
Dr. Stewart: “Technology is merely an enabler and can be a distraction. Technology needs to be evaluated with respect to its ability to improve value creation. The ability of technology to add value is not independent of its user and its use. The value of technology changes over time; useful technologies at one point in time are often obsolete at a later point in time. This means that it is important to frame technologies and investments in them, including time spent learning, in terms of their ability to improve or sustain the value being created by the individual.”
Prof. Smith: “Our students are required to be proficient in a number of standard as well as proprietary analytical techniques. For example, we have them do comparative economics on power generation alternatives using the Lazard-created LCOE or levelized cost of energy model in addition to using standard DCF and IRR analysis. We also have available a full-scale trading room which is tied into one of the commodity exchanges dealing in a variety of energy commodities. Much of the data used in these trading courses is proprietary. One unique feature is that we offer courses in trading electric power using our own simulator.”

The experts made two key points: the use of tools to improve learning experiences and the importance of grasping new technologies. Both Dr. Souder and Dr. Stewart emphasize that, given the rapid pace of technological change, students need to be proactive and keep up with the latest advancements.

As more digital solutions emerge, it can be beneficial to take a few courses from the cheapest online MS in computer science programs or pursue practical internships to stay ahead of the curve. More importantly, they stress that students must understand how to use these technologies efficiently to achieve valuable and creative outcomes.

Prof. Greene shares this view and mentions that she employs various apps or solutions to enrich students’ understanding. Likewise, Prof. Smith, who specializes in energy, economics, and management science policies, incorporates simulators to facilitate students’ learning. This approach not only familiarizes them with the functions of these technologies but also improves their capacity to apply theoretical concepts in real-world scenarios.

What are some common misconceptions about studying business that you frequently encounter among new students?

It is not unusual for soon-to-be college students to hold misconceptions about pursuing business degrees. Being a responsible learner who explores these misunderstandings can help you set realistic expectations and enhance your knowledge about the discipline. The experts also provide their insights on this topic.

Dr. Souder: “New students often think that if you just do well in your classes, everything else will come easy. But everyone is doing similar coursework—that’s just where you learn the common language everyone shares. To make your mark, you have to find opportunities where you can add value beyond what everyone else can do. It can be based on your unique background and interests, but you’re going to succeed the most when you can recognize an opportunity that others miss. Students who stand out to their professors and prospective employers are those who take a little risk and try to say something that elevates the conversation. Even if the idea is not fully formed, it shows that the student has the skill and willingness to take a chance for the greater good.”
Prof. Greene: “Some misconceptions are that business is all about making money, you have to be good at math, and that business education is outdated. Most business schools stress a strong balance of other subjects these days besides business to include ethics, philosophy, and/or language classes. In addition, students can go into subjects such as human resource management that do not require any math. Lastly, professors are strongly motivated by multiple sources to stay current on hot topics. We are continuously encouraged to bring current events and trends into the classroom for discussion.”
Dr. Stewart: “Studying or working in business is not a guarantee of success. The road is littered with unsuccessful businesses. The “valuable” skill today may have little value in the future. This means that success involves continuous self-improvement and reinvention of self. Success requires continuing to learn; learning does not stop when a degree is conferred. Indeed, the most valuable skill that can be learned in school is the ability to learn.”
Prof. Smith: “Perhaps the biggest misconception is that energy is yesterday’s construct and that studying hydrocarbon fuel and chemical sources will be obsolete in the short term, all to be replaced by renewable sources in short order. We do not suggest that the energy transition is not an issue or that renewables will not be a part of the energy transition, but we do educate them on the challenges in both capital and time necessary. They also educate themselves by their choice of assumptions in their modeling course.”

The experts raised a few crucial points that students need to remember. For instance, Dr. Souder, Dr. Stewart, and Prof. Greene clarify that while passing courses with flying colors is indeed a must, it is not enough to be a successful business student or professional. In a field that is visibly influenced by various changes, students must commit to lifelong learning and constantly seek self-improvement.

Staying updated with industry trends is one way to achieve this. For example, in the energy sector, Prof. Smith discusses the ongoing importance and challenges of studying both traditional and renewable energy sources. Since business intersects with numerous industries, it’s important to choose a niche or specialty, such as a cheap online supply chain management degree, to avoid being overwhelmed by trying to keep up with everything.

Furthermore, as you learn, recognizing and seizing unique opportunities to ask questions or take risks are also vital ways to become successful, as Dr. Souder and Dr. Stewart mentioned. These opportunities can strengthen your understanding, open you to new perspectives, and help you push boundaries. Doing so can reveal your capabilities and show you where you can further apply or expand your newfound skills.

This advice is incredibly helpful especially since hundreds of students enroll in undergraduate business degree programs and graduate business schools. As you will see in the chart below, from 2021-22 alone, 375,418 learners earned bachelor’s degrees in business, and 205,751 obtained graduate degrees in business (National Center for Education Statistics, 2023). To stand out in this diverse field, you must go beyond earning a degree and equip yourself with various knowledge and skills that can increase your value to prospective employers.

Can you highlight some of the emerging trends in business that students should be aware of as they prepare for their careers?

Several trends in business can also affect how business schools update their curriculum and how employers spot good candidates. Here are just some of those trends, according to the experts:

Prof. Greene: “Some emerging trends are data-driven decision-making, ethical decision-making, and remote work/work balance arrangements. While not everyone needs to be good at math, the [workers] with higher salaries are often the ones who enjoy analyzing data. In addition, there has been a big shift to ensuring that employees are making the “right” decision at work, and I think that organizations value employees who they can trust. Lastly, most jobs these days are hybrid, and organizations are giving employees a chance to bring their “whole selves” to work. This is refreshing to see, and I think will hopefully create a happier workforce.”
Dr. Stewart: “Productivity, measured by value added rather than efficiency, will become increasingly more important. This trend is accelerating. This makes it critical for students to evaluate their course(s) of study and jobs in terms of their ability to make better at adding value.”
Prof. Smith: “One big change is the greater amount of data that is available to them. A second is the need to discriminate in terms of data quality. A third is understanding the negative impact of changes in the regulatory environment brought about by changes in administration at both the state and federal levels. Today and tomorrow, the effects of policy change can outweigh all of the marketing and economic assumptions to generate significant uncertainty leading to profoundly bad business decisions.”

The experts put a spotlight on ethical decision-making and sustainability as trends. This resonates with the current generation of students, who are deeply committed to their principles and advocacies. A Harvard Business School Publishing article notes that business students are keen to explore the changing economic, social, and environmental roles of corporations and leaders. However, curricula often prioritize maximizing profit over the common good (Hoffman, 2024).

For business schools to produce graduates who understand their roles across industries, a shift in approach is essential. Whether it’s a business administration degree or the cheapest online project management degree, institutions must broaden their curricula to include multidisciplinary, interconnected, and global topics. Leveraging technology in these programs will equip students with the skills to address diverse societal challenges across generations. This approach aligns with the trends identified by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB, 2024), an accrediting body for business programs.

In addition, the experts stress the significance of data analysis and data-driven decision-making. Notably, Dr. Stewart highlights that the value of technology changes over time and that there is a need to frame technology investments in terms of their ability to enhance value creation. Moreover, Prof. Smith discusses the use of analytical techniques, proprietary data, and simulators to gain better insights into their lessons and also relate them to real-life issues. Therefore, business educators and students must collaborate effectively in mastering the use of updated technologies that generate valuable data.

Lastly, Prof. Greene points out that business schools must also train future workplace leaders to adapt their policies and technologies to accommodate the post-pandemic worker’s preferences. A study shows that 48% of workers would leave their jobs if it prevented them from enjoying their lives, and 45% would turn down a job offer lacking flexible hours (Randstad, 2023). Therefore, this adjustment is crucial to attract new professionals and increase employee satisfaction and retention.

What books, courses, or resources would you recommend to business students to supplement their classroom learning?

Students must also be familiar with other resources that can aid in their understanding of course lessons. Utilizing these helps students stay on top of trends, develop critical thinking skills, and gain a deeper insight into the real-world implications of their studies. These are the suggestions of the experts:

Prof. Greene: “I recommend traditional websites such as the Harvard Business Review, the MIT Sloan Management Review, or the Thunderbird International Business Review. I also like podcasts like the Tim Ferriss Show and Pushkin by Malcolm Gladwell. For books, I suggest Shannon Houde’s Good Work.”
Dr. Stewart: “Breadth of exposure is very important. Being aware of trends in society and in business is important for assessing the value of skills and the need for specific jobs, products, and services. A narrow focus on an immediate job or specific course of study is myopic. While one cannot predict the future, it is possible to see the future as it evolves, but this requires a broad view.”
Prof. Smith: “Most of our recommended sources are in the form of websites such as the Energy Information Administration (EIA), an independent agency that was founded to provide congressmen and their staffs with unbiased data, as well as forecasts. We also work closely with state-level agencies…policy websites such as Law and Liberty. We bring in guest speakers from federal agencies such as the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM)…and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). We also discuss various government labs involved with energy (and their publications), investment banking houses and hedge funds that focus on energy investment, and numerous trade organizations…We also cooperate with other energy academic institutes…[and] encourage students to attend both our organized field trips [and] regional energy conferences that take place in New Orleans.”

In your experience, what are the most significant challenges that business graduates face when entering the job market, and how can they best prepare to overcome these obstacles?

Entering the job market as a business graduate comes with its own set of unique challenges. From finding the right job to adapting to a workplace, new graduates must be well-prepared to make their mark. Here, the experts reveal their insights to help you prepare for life after graduation.

Dr. Souder: “Business graduates are often very eager to start making an impact right away in their first jobs. The enthusiasm is great, but it’s too soon. Even after you graduate, there is going to be a lot to learn about how things get done in your company or industry. Most people get their most interesting experiences after something happens that they did not expect. Anything you learn in that first job could start you on a new and exciting path that you would not know existed until you start traveling down it. Remember that your career is going to last for decades—you don’t have to accomplish everything you hope before you turn 30.”
Prof. Greene: “Some of the challenges are high competition from the amount of candidates graduating in business today, a lack of practical experience, and the inability to adapt to corporate culture. Fortunately, all of these things can be overcome with preparation and hard work. As mentioned, I suggest taking full advantage of the college experience by getting involved, participating in the classroom, and getting to know the professors. Internships are also a great way for an organization to get to know a potential employee and for the employee to get to know the organization.”
Dr. Stewart: “A common, erroneous assumption is that a course of study and a first job will be the key to future success. The world will change many times and in many ways over the course of a lifetime. Every course, every course of study, and every job should be evaluated in terms of how it prepares one for the future. Too many graduates focus on the requirements of a specific job rather than on the skills that will make them valuable in any job. Every job should be evaluated in terms of what it will teach the holder and how it will prepare the holder for the next job, and the next.”
Prof. Smith: “We integrate our educational efforts with helping our graduates get exposed to the firms that need people with their skills and who require [minimal] hand-holding during their integration into their chosen firm. Unlike many academic programs, we have specialists in recruiting and placement advising our students during the school year. These advisors assist with resumes, deciding on client companies, going through mock interviews, and negotiating starting salaries. Because our program typically lasts one year, the outside recruiters and our students show up at the same time. To prepare them for initial interviews, we start the program with two intensive courses during the summer before the start of the full academic year.”

A common theme the experts point out is the importance of continuous learning, even after you complete your program. Dr. Souder and Dr. Stewart highlight that much remains to be learned after graduation. As they earlier suggested, taking risks and seizing opportunities to learn or question can lead to unexpected and exciting new paths.

Additionally, Prof. Greene and Prof. Smith stress the value of gaining practical experience and building a network. These two elements are interconnected. As students engage in fieldwork, they gain unique insights and meet potential mentors, peers, or employers who can later provide access to employment, professional development, and other opportunities.

Perhaps one of the most relatable pieces of advice comes from Dr. Souder: take your time. Yes, there are instances when you should strike while the iron is hot, but there’s no need to set strict deadlines for achieving specific career milestones. Constantly pushing yourself this way can lead to burnout before you have a chance to excel. Instead, take things slowly, learn as much as you can, and explore various experiences to develop yourself both professionally and personally.

How do I choose the best business school for my career goals?

Choosing the best business school for your career goals is a crucial decision that requires careful consideration of several factors. Aside from looking into the rankings, reputation, graduation rates, and job placements of alumni, there are other criteria that can make or break your decision. By thoroughly researching or reflecting on the factors outlined below, you can select the right business school.

Identify Your Career Objectives: Determine your long-term career goals and the specific field of business you want to enter. Research potential entry-level jobs for business graduates to gain insights into what they do.
Research Areas of Specialization: Explore business specializations, such as finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, supply chain management, information technology, or international business, to identify the ones that most interest you. Review the curricula of graduate programs, like online masters in communication or MBAs, to understand how the courses align with your career aspirations.
Consider Faculty Expertise: Research the faculty’s qualifications, experience, and areas of expertise. Look for professors who are leaders in your field of interest and who have industry connections that could benefit your career.
Explore Networking Opportunities: Find out about opportunities for networking with professionals in your desired field. Consider the availability of mentorship programs, industry partnerships, and other networking events.
Look Into Financial Considerations: Compare tuition costs, the availability of scholarships, and financial aid options. Assess the return on investment (ROI) by considering the potential increase in earning power after graduation.
Examine Internship and Job Placement Services: Investigate the school’s career services, including internship placements, job fairs, and on-campus recruiting. Look for schools with strong relationships with top employers in your desired industry.
Consider Class Size and Student-to-Faculty Ratio: Think about whether you prefer a large or small school and how class size will impact your learning experience. Smaller class sizes often mean more personalized attention and better access to faculty.
Check Accreditation: Ensure the business school is evaluated by a recognized body, such as the AACSB, the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), or the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE). Accreditation ensures the quality of the program and its relevance to industry standards.

What are the most common career paths for business graduates?

Business graduates have a diverse array of career paths available to them, reflecting the broad and versatile nature of their education. Entry-level positions, like associates or junior specialists, are common. If you’re aiming for a higher-level position, you’ll need a few years of experience or certain expertise to attain this role.

Some pursue MBAs or related graduate degrees, like the cheapest data science masters online, to strengthen their credibility, knowledge, and skills. Here are some roles you can apply for throughout your career.

Financial and Investment Analyst: Examines financial data to help companies make investment decisions.
Data Analyst: Evaluates large datasets to extract insights and inform business decisions.
Marketing Specialist: Develops strategies to promote products and services and conducts research to understand customer needs and market trends.
Human Resources Staff: Handles recruitment and hiring, develops company policies, oversees employee training.
Payroll Specialist: Manages the timely and accurate processing of employee salaries and benefits.
Account Executive: Builds and maintains relationships with clients and oversees the execution of sales strategies.
Sales Manager: Leads sales teams to achieve revenue targets and expand market share.
Administrative Assistant: Handles clerical tasks, manages correspondence, and maintains office efficiency.
Project Management Specialist: Assists in planning, executing, and closing projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.
Supply Chain Specialist: Handles the logistics, procurement, inventory management, and supplier relationships between supply chains.

The chart below also differentiates the annual salaries of some of the abovementioned job positions.

What are the most promising industries for business graduates?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there will be 911,400 annual job openings in the business and financial sector from 2022 to 2032. Meanwhile, in management positions, there will be roughly 1.1 million annual employment opportunities (2024a; 2024b). Average wages in these sectors range from $79,050 to $116,880 or more. Because business is an essential foundation of any industry, several promising industries offer unique opportunities.

One of the most prominent industries is technology. With the ongoing digital transformation across industries, businesses are increasingly relying on technology to innovate and streamline operations. This creates a high demand for business professionals who understand both the technical and strategic aspects of these fields.

Finance and banking remain stalwart industries for business graduates, offering roles in investment banking, financial analysis, and wealth management. These sectors continue to evolve with global economic trends and regulatory changes, requiring skilled professionals who can navigate complex financial instruments and market dynamics.

Healthcare is another rapidly growing sector, driven by an aging population, technological advancements in medical devices and pharmaceuticals, and an increased focus on healthcare management and administration. Business graduates in healthcare can find opportunities in hospital administration, healthcare consulting, and healthcare IT, where they play crucial roles in improving patient care delivery and operational efficiency.

Other profitable industries to consider are e-commerce and retail, renewable energy and sustainability, and consulting. These industries seek talented business graduates who can drive innovation, streamline operations, and navigate complex challenges. Overall, the most promising industries for business graduates are those that are dynamic, technology-driven, and responsive to global trends in sustainability, digitalization, and consumer behavior.

Is an Executive MBA the Right Next Step for Advancing My Career?

For seasoned professionals aiming to elevate their strategic influence and leadership acumen, an Executive MBA provides a tailored educational experience that builds on extensive work experience. This advanced degree emphasizes high-level decision-making, innovative management techniques, and real-world applications designed to generate immediate value within organizations. Unlike traditional programs, the curriculum in an Executive MBA is structured to accommodate busy executive schedules while delivering intensive, practical learning modules. Explore options that offer flexibility and quality, such as executive MBA programs online, which combine rigorous academic theory with the immediacy of applied business challenges.

Pursue Business Degrees to Challenge and Reform

Students aiming to pursue a business degree may be skeptical of its long-term value. However, our discussion in this guide indicates that business schools are facing pressure to enhance their teaching methods, objectives, and curricula to meet the expectations of a new generation of conscientious learners who prioritize corporate accountability. Therefore, you must not lose heart in finding the value of being in this field since you can potentially play a key role in challenging and reforming outdated systems for the better.

In addition, our conversations with prominent figures in business academia underscored that success in the business world relies on a solid foundation of knowledge, adaptability to industry shifts, and a commitment to lifelong learning. By embracing these insights, you can confidently pursue your ambitions, equipped with the tools and skills to lead meaningful change in a dynamic global business environment.

Can accelerated credential programs fast-track my business career?

Accelerated credentials offer a strategic alternative to traditional degree pathways by delivering targeted, industry-relevant skills in a condensed timeframe. These programs are designed for individuals who seek to enter the business workforce quickly or enhance their current qualifications without the extended commitment of a full-time degree. By focusing on core competencies and practical experiences, accelerated pathways allow learners to adapt to evolving market demands efficiently. For example, pursuing an associate degree in 6 months online can provide a streamlined educational option that complements a broader business education strategy while supporting rapid career advancement.

Can supplemental certifications boost my business career?

Business professionals increasingly expand their expertise through targeted certifications that complement core academic learning. Supplemental credentials can address industry-specific technological developments and specialized skills not covered in traditional degree programs. Earning such qualifications often expedites career advancement by validating proficiency in areas like data analysis, digital strategy, and project management. Moreover, these credentials can be obtained in a shorter timeframe than full degree programs, providing a competitive edge when pivoting to emerging market roles. Research indicates that strategic investments in certifications, such as highest paying certifications, can strengthen professional credibility and enhance potential salary growth.

Is a Doctorate a Strategic Investment for Advanced Business Leadership?

A doctoral-level program in business allows professionals to deepen their research acumen and develop innovative strategies that drive industry evolution. Candidates with a focus on a online doctorate degree benefit from a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes independent research, advanced analytical thinking, and comprehensive problem-solving skills. This level of study not only distinguishes leaders in competitive sectors but also bridges the gap between academic theory and real-world business challenges by fostering a holistic perspective essential for high-stakes decision-making.

Can alternative training pathways complement a business degree?

While academic credentials lay a strong foundation, hands-on industry training bridges theory and practice by fostering practical problem-solving and real-world decision-making. Targeted apprenticeships, internships, and vocational programs equip professionals with specialized skills and immediate industry insights, which are increasingly prized by employers. In particular, exposure to practical environments can refine technical proficiency and enhance soft skills that academic programs may not fully address. Integrating such alternative training—with opportunities like trade school programs that pay well—offers a balanced approach, positioning candidates to effectively navigate and excel in today’s competitive business landscape.

What is the ROI of investing in a business degree?

Evaluating the return on investment for a business degree involves examining long-term career trajectories, salary growth, and the practical benefits that extend beyond classroom learning. Detailed outcomes such as starting salaries, mid-career earnings, and the acceleration of career advancement are critical metrics for prospective students. Quantitative data linking educational investments with improved economic prospects and qualitative factors like enhanced decision-making and leadership skills offer a comprehensive picture of ROI. In this context, alternative programs—like online degrees that pay well—can serve as benchmarks for measuring value, enabling candidates to assess whether traditional academic programs align with their career and financial goals.

How can admissions consulting improve my business school application?

Expert guidance from admissions consultants can streamline application processes and enhance the strategic positioning of your candidacy. Relying on specialized professionals provides tailored insights on refining personal statements, optimizing resumes, and aligning your profile with targeted business programs. Additionally, leveraging tools such as the best university admission consultants ranking offers data-driven support in selecting advisors whose expertise aligns with your career objectives, ultimately increasing the likelihood of admission success.

More Information About the Experts We Interviewed

David Souder, Ph.D.

Dr. Souder is an experienced and well-respected educator, having served in various teaching and academic positions throughout his career. Prior to his new role as the Dean of the Eli and Edythe L. Broad College of Business (MSU), he was the Senior Associate Dean for Faculty and Research and a Strategy Professor at the University of Connecticut’s School of Business. His areas of expertise include performance metrics, long-term corporate investments, and mergers and acquisitions. Before becoming an educator, he was a strategy consultant for private organizations in New York and London. Dr. Souder earned his Ph.D. in Business Administration with a concentration in Strategic Management and Organization from the University of Minnesota.

Ingrid S. Greene, M.B.A., M.A.

Prof. Greene is a distinguished educator and professional with a diverse academic and industry background. Aside from teaching Business Ethics and Sustainability, she oversees LMU’s Master in Global Entrepreneurial Management program, a collaboration with the IQS School of Management in Barcelona, Spain, and FuJen Catholic University in Taipei City, Taiwan, to prepare students for global business challenges. Before entering the academe, she had extensive experience as a Communications Consultant and Business Analyst, having worked with many prominent organizations. Prof. Greene obtained her M.B.A. in International Business from The Thunderbird School of Global Management and her M.A. in Strategic Communications from Pepperdine University.

David Stewart, Ph.D.

Dr. Stewart is a seasoned expert in the field of marketing and is a Fellow of the American Marketing Association (AMA), an honor bestowed upon members who have made significant contributions to marketing research, theory, and practice. He is an Emeritus Professor of Marketing and Business Law at Loyola Marymount University. He previously served as the dean of the School of Business Administration and the A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management at the University of California, Riverside (UCR). Before his tenure at UCR, Dr. Stewart was a Robert E. Brooker Professor of Marketing and Chairman of the Department of Marketing at the Marshall School of Business, University of Southern California (USC). His influential writings cover market analysis, consumer behavior, branding, and marketing research, among others. He earned his Ph.D. in Psychology from Baylor University.

Eric N. Smith, Professor of Practice, B. Ch. Eng., MBA

A renowned educator and expert in energy markets, economics, and policy, Prof. Smith teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses at Tulane University. His classes include Energy Markets, and Economics and Policy, as well as Orientation and Energy Policy in the master’s program. A Freeman School alumnus, Prof. Smith began his teaching career with night classes at Freeman before being invited by the dean to become the inaugural employee of the Energy Institute. His extensive industry experience, both domestically and internationally, has been invaluable in shaping the program. Beyond his teaching responsibilities, he produces critical reports and frequently represents the Energy Institute in local and national media, addressing energy-related inquiries. He has an M.B.A. in Business Administration.

References:

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