or
Looking to list your Masters courses? Log in here.
Thinking about pursuing an MBA? You're definitely not alone! Many students from all corners of the globe are considering this advanced degree, and it’s a fantastic way to boost your career prospects. But what does an MBA actually teach you? Here’s a friendly breakdown of the top five skills you’ll gain during your studies that can help you thrive in the bustling world of business.
First up, let’s chat about interpersonal and communication skills. You may think you’re already a pro at talking to people, but an MBA takes your abilities to a whole new level. This skill transcends engaging in small talk at networking events; it’s about mastering the art of clear and effective communication in various professional contexts. Throughout your MBA, you’ll delve into the importance of effective relationships and learn how to navigate tough conversations —like addressing performance issues with a team member or mediating conflicting opinions during group projects. These skills are crucial for working effectively in teams and leading others, ultimately making you a more effective and respected professional. Remember, the ability to articulate your ideas and listen actively can make a world of difference in the workplace.
Next on our list is leadership and management skills. In today’s competitive business landscape, being knowledgeable isn’t always enough. To climb the corporate ladder, you need to know how to inspire and lead a team. MBA courses develop a variety of leadership skills, focusing on management styles, leadership development, strategic management, and understanding change dynamics. You’ll learn through group project experiences, enhancing your ability to tackle challenges and communicate effectively. Even if you’re the brightest in the room, without strong leadership abilities, you might find it challenging to advance in your career. You’ll learn how to foster collaboration and engagement within your team, which can be a game-changer in achieving common goals.
Whether you dream of starting your own business or simply want to think creatively in your current role, entrepreneurial and innovation skills are vital. MBA courses emphasise skills such as ideation, venture creation, and growth strategies, fostering an entrepreneurial mindset among students. This focus encourages you to embrace innovation and think outside the box, learning to approach problems with a fresh perspective and find unique solutions that can give your business a competitive edge. This skill set is invaluable in any field because it promotes adaptability and forward-thinking. Even if entrepreneurship isn’t your end goal, the ability to innovate can help you stand out in any organisation, making you an asset in discussions about growth and improvement.
MBA courses are perfect for honing your project management and time management skills. In the business world, juggling multiple projects and meeting deadlines is essential. MBA courses teach key project management skills, including operations management, supply chain management, quality control, and process improvement. Throughout your studies, you’ll engage in group projects that simulate real-world challenges, helping you learn how to coordinate tasks, manage resources, and stay on track. Whether solving a financial problem as a team or consulting with a company on how to enter a new market, these experiences will not only boost your efficiency but also enhance your ability to lead teams effectively.
Last but not least, an MBA offers you the chance to cultivate empathy and a global perspective—two often-overlooked but incredibly important skills. Empathy fosters effective leadership, enabling you to listen and address concerns, motivating teams to achieve shared goals. Additionally, a global perspective is emphasised through specialised courses that equip students with knowledge in international finance and global marketing strategies. Studying alongside a diverse group of international students allows you to understand different experiences, refining your ability to adapt to various cultural differences in business practices.
Masters student Zahistha's journey from campus to Parliament. How she got involved and how you can too.
Read moreMasters student Eva talks about the process of finding out what her Masters in Edinburgh would cost and how she found what funding options were available to her.
Read moreDiscover what to expect and what not to expect when it comes to a taught Masters course from a student's personal experience
Read moreThis blog is your sign to join a student society! Masters student Zahistha shares her experience being part of the art society at her university and offers advice if you're looking to join a society too.
Read moreFind out how you can decide whether to return to the same university or study somewhere new for your Masters degree.
Read moreMasters student Zahistha talks about self-care while studying. She shares her journey and some top tips!
Read more