Which MBA Specialization Is Right for Me?

What is an MBA specialization? Do I need to specialize? 

An MBA specialization or concentration is a way to further specialize your training. The MBA degree is designed to be a broad survey of the essential functions of business administration. While general MBAs cover most business disciplines, MBAs with concentrations provide greater depth of study in one area. Once you’ve selected your specialization, you begin to take courses that dive more deeply into that subject. A specialization is not necessary by any means; most professionals find great success with a general MBA. However, if you are looking to break into a niche business market, then having that specialization will set you apart. Here are a few of the business world’s most popular specializations: 

1. Finance/Accounting/Economics 

Finance MBAs are master of business administration degrees that contain a concentrated group of courses related to finance. Other specializations related to the finance sector include Accounting, Corporate Finance, Statistics, and Taxation. At Sacred Heart University, students can take evening and online classes to complete their MBA. The program will cover all functions of business to best prepare students for a variety of career opportunities. Those with specific interests and goals can choose from concentrations in accounting, finance, management, marketing, or business analytics.

1. Investment

An MBA with a specialization in Investment Management opens the door to a number of highly lucrative careers. Upper Iowa University’s MBA program is divided into three areas of concentration with five specialization options: Accounting, Corporate Financial Management, General Management, Human Resources Management, and Organizational Development. The curriculum consists of a forward-thinking academic program that develops comprehension and competence in financial risk, economics and change, innovation through sustainability, current legal implications, and product improvement and market analysis. Students apply business theories and practices across all functional areas of an organization. Many courses include teamwork among students in preparation for entering the corporate world, a skill sought by many organizations.

1. Supply Chain Management  

An MBA with a specialization in Operations Management or Supply Chain Management focuses on building analytical and managerial skills in the fields of logistics and supply chain. Supply chain managers oversee all the operations related to the count and supply of the products that an organization deals in. Lewis University’s MBA program consists of students who all bring rich, diverse perspectives to the curriculum. Class discussion allows even the most fundamental basics of business to unfold as complex concepts when explored by students of all cultural, educational, and professional backgrounds. The curriculum and class structure load every student with crucial information and training along with the ability to adapt to new perspectives and new situations.

1. Entrepreneurship 

An MBA with a specialization in Entrepreneurship builds on the traditional Master of Business Administration (MBA) program with a special focus on the skills required to start a business or work in venture capital. Students learn through traditional classes, work on case studies and project-based assignments, and even create business plans in their capstone class. Eastern Michigan University’s MBA program focuses on critical thinking skills, ethics, interdisciplinary knowledge, and communication. Students are prepared to be thoughtful, resilient, and powerful leaders in an ever-changing global market. Students can choose to take classes at the downtown Ypsilanti campus, online, or in a hybrid format. 

1. Marketing 

An MBA with a Marketing specialization will prepare you to meet the needs of the ever-changing business world. This MBA specialization will prepare you for a lucrative career in a number of sectors including brand management, international marketing, and sports business. Graduates in the MBA program at University of the Incarnate Word may choose to concentrate in Finance, Marketing, or Sport Management for a more specialized degree. 

1. Organization

Organizational MBA specializations focus on areas of leadership, management, and human resources. These specializations prepare individuals for managerial responsibilities in business, government, and nonprofit entities. They develop broad-based skills in the management of cross-functional teams, project management, technology application, and new products and services development. The MBA program at UMass Lowell prepares students to effectively lead organizations in rapidly changing and diverse regional, national, and global business environments, fostering connections with alumni who lead Fortune 500 and innovative startup companies.

So, Should I Specialize?

While it is not necessary to get a specialized MBA, it can certainly be useful in helping reach your professional goals. Once you’ve decided which path to take, Abound: MBA can help you find schools that are Accessible, Affordable, Accelerated, and Advanced. Take a look at the schools we trust and find the program that works for you.