Is an MBA worth it?
You don't need to wonder if an MBA is worth it. Explore how this in-demand degree can benefit early and mid-career professionals.
By: Thomas Broderick, Edited by: Mitch Jacobson
Last updated: August 18, 2025
Many professionals view an MBA as a prestigious and lucrative degree that can open doors to leadership roles and higher salaries. However, this degree is not a one-size-fits-all solution for career success. You should consider your career goals before making this investment.
Take a closer look at potential MBA programs, including common requirements, return on investment, and other factors to consider before pursuing this degree.
Find the right MBA for you
What is an MBA?
An MBA is a master's program that provides the technical and soft skills necessary for success in business and management. Most MBA programs consist of 36-40 credits, take 1-4 years to complete, and cover many topics. These include finance, data analysis, leadership, and communication.
MBA programs come in various formats and cater to different career stages and learning styles. Programs may offer full-time or part-time MBA options, as well as in-person or online classes. As a postgraduate degree, students can pursue an MBA after earning a bachelor's degree.
The benefits of earning an MBA
MBA programs feature many potential benefits:
- Explore new careers: An MBA opens new career paths, specifically those in leadership and management.
- Receive a custom-tailored education: Many universities offer career-aligned specializations, such as healthcare administration, marketing, data analytics, and investment management.
- Develop transferable skills: An MBA program can teach you more than leadership and management skills. You can also become a better communicator and critical thinker.
- Qualify for doctoral programs: An MBA can help you qualify for doctoral business programs. A doctorate is a great choice if you want to become a postsecondary teacher and educate the next generation of business leaders.
Is an MBA worth it for you?
An MBA is worth it if it provides you with a strong return on investment (ROI). Calculating a program's potential ROI involves researching many factors, such as:
- The relationship between the cost of attendance and your increased salary potential.
- How much an MBA may help your job search, especially in a tight job market.
- How employers view an MBA from the university you attend.
Keep in mind that what makes up a strong ROI differs among prospective students. To learn more and make an informed decision, you can reach out to university admissions advisors and former students.
How much does an MBA cost?
Master's degrees, including MBAs, can cost $10,000-$200,000. Your cost of attendance (COA) depends on many factors, such as:
- Whether you attend an in-state public school, an out-of-state public school, or a private school.
- Program fees.
- Education-related expenses, such as transportation and housing.
You can lower your COA in different ways, such as by attending an in-state public university or applying for institutional, private, federal, or state financial aid programs. Other options include learning online, which may eliminate some fees and transportation costs.
Are MBA graduates in demand?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that between 2023-33, careers popular with MBA graduates should experience moderate-to-high growth:
| Career | Projected growth 2023-33 |
|---|---|
| Medical or health services managers | +29% |
| Postsecondary education administrators | +3% |
| Project management specialists | +7% |
| Top executives | +6% |
Other factors can impact demand for MBA graduates, such as geographic location and hiring trends within your industry. Your university's career advisors can help you explore career paths, develop a strong résumé, and prepare for interviews.
Will earning an MBA have a good ROI?
As of May 2024, professionals with an MBA can earn median salaries exceeding $100,000:
| Career | Median annual salary |
|---|---|
| Medical or health services managers | $117,960 |
| Postsecondary education administrators | $103,960 |
| Project management specialists | $100,750 |
| Top executives | $105,350 |
Keep in mind that your professional experience and employer can affect your salary potential just as much as an MBA. You may also make significantly less as a recent graduate. However, an MBA may help you achieve professional advancement (and earn a higher salary) faster than your peers with only a bachelor's degree.
Research whether an MBA can provide what you consider a strong ROI before applying. For some recent college graduates and experienced workers, advancing in their careers may require only extra experience, a graduate certificate, or a professional certification.