Why Do an MBA Degree? A Path to Enhanced Skills and Professional Success

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a professional postgraduate degree programme focusing on business skills. It is one of the most popular programmes for professionals looking to advance in the corporate world. Students can do a general MBA or opt for a specialised programme that aligns with their field, such as marketing or finance. 

South Africa is an emerging destination for higher education and offers students a choice of various top business schools. Students are exposed to a global environment with a localised focus that allows them to succeed in any industry. 

In this article, we will cover why do an MBA degree, the benefits of pursuing the programme in South Africa, and the various study options available. 

Why do an MBA Degree?

An MBA differs from other postgraduate programmes since it takes a multidisciplinary approach. Students enrolled in an MBA, even a specialised programme, learn about marketing, finance, accounting, and consumer behaviour.

This helps to mould professionals who are skilled in various aspects of business. If you are wondering, why do an MBA degree, this is one of the top reasons. It allows graduates to effectively consider various business factors before making a strategic decision. This is also the reason MBA graduates are the top candidates for leadership positions. 

Let us examine some of the reasons for why to study MBA.

• Professional Advancement: An MBA programme teaches students and working professionals the required soft and hard skills to manage businesses effectively. When one considers why do an MBA degree, the biggest benefit is career advancement. MBA graduates are hired for leadership positions that allow them to 
• Increased Earning Potential: On average, MBA graduates earn more than professionals with an undergraduate degree. Earning potential is a key factor to consider if one is on the fence about why get an MBA degree.
• Global and Local Market Relevance: MBA programmes in South Africa are designed to reflect global practices while teaching students the relevance of local market practices. This allows graduates to apply for global positions. 

Read more on the Differences Between Undergraduate and Postgraduate

What Are The Key Benefits of Pursuing an MBA in South Africa?

Higher education programmes are expensive, therefore, it is natural to wonder why do an MBA degree in South Africa. An MBA degree offers a quicker path to career advancement and allows professionals a chance to work in varied industries with the skill sets that they acquire during their postgraduate studies.

South Africa is an emerging market and a gateway for businesses to expand into sub-Saharan Africa. Therefore, companies need strong MBA graduates to help them scale operations and manage assets. 

Let us look at some of the reasons why you should do an MBA degree in South Africa.

• Skill Development: If one is wondering why do an MBA degree if you are already employed, it is because it offers a chance for career advancement. MBA programmes in South Africa teach students skills such as strategic and financial management that are key in decision making. Students hone their negotiation and decision-making skills when working on projects and activities. It also prepares them for resource allocation and management.
• Networking Opportunities: Most MBA students enter the programme with relevant work experience. They come from various fields and can be employed as a source for job recommendations. MBA students also participate in various events where they can interact with industry leaders. 
• Entrepreneurial Knowledge: An MBA degree benefits not only the corporate world but also those looking to establish a small business. If one is wondering why an MBA degree is important, it teaches budding entrepreneurs the importance of managing finances and effective marketing strategies for small business success.
• Adaptability in Various Industries: The MBA Programme at Regenesys Business School is taught by industry experts who offer focused insights. Additionally, an MBA programme allows students to apply their skill sets across industries. If one is still wondering why do an MBA degree, then this is one of the biggest advantages. 

Why is South Africa an Ideal Place for an MBA?

An MBA is one of the most popular postgraduate programmes in the world. Therefore, it is offered in nearly all business schools, including Regenesys. So, why do an MBA degree in South Africa? 

This is because It is one of the top destinations for international students seeking quality education due to its strategic location, exposure, and cost-effective degrees.

MBA programmes are designed to train students in skills that can be applied globally. This is one of the top reasons that MBAs are a popular postgraduate programme. They allow professionals the opportunity to change industries, fields, and even countries as they help attain their career goals. 

These are some of the top reasons why an MBA degree in South Africa is an ideal choice.

• Cost-Effective Education: Top South African institutes offer accredited programmes with affordable fees. This also makes it an attractive destination for international students looking to gain exposure.
• Cultural Diversity and Exposure: South Africa is a diverse nation, and an MBA programme here will allow students to develop their cross-cultural skills. These are important soft skills that can be beneficial for global postings. It allows them to become sensitive towards cultural differences.
• Emerging Market Perspective: South Africa is one of the strongest emerging economies in Africa and is a crucial market for businesses. An MBA in South Africa will expose students to strategies companies use to gain success in emerging markets. 
• Strategic Location in Africa: South Africa serves as the gateway to conducting business in sub-Saharan Africa. MBA graduates who gain experience here can transfer their skills to other regional countries.

Read more on How to Choose a Career That is Right For You

What are The Top Institutions Offering MBA Programmes in South Africa?

We have covered why do an MBA degree and the benefits of completing the programme in South Africa. Top universities in the country offer accredited and globally recognised MBA programmes. These are registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training, and completing the postgraduate programme awards students an NQF Level 9 qualification. 

University of Cape Town’s Graduate School of Business, Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), Stellenbosch Business School, and Regenesys Business School are some of the top choices for an MBA degree in South Africa.

Regenesys offers it as a two-year programme. Students are required to complete 230 credits, including a dissertation. The programme is taught by industry experts who impart their insights and experience, which demonstrate the degree’s practical application.

Some of the subjects included at Regenesys are Strategic Financial Management, Operations and Supply Chain Management, and Mergers and Acquisitions. Students can choose to complete their programme in person or via online classes. The MBA programme at Regenesys helps to create well-rounded thinkers and decision-makers who will help drive change. Prospective MBA candidates must deliberate upon this when answers for why do an MBA degree.

Program Flexibility and Study Options

An MBA degree helps to hone business skills and teaches professionals how to evaluate the various aspects of conducting business. Therefore, prestigious programmes require MBA candidates to come with relevant industry experience. 

Often times, students choose to continue working while studying towards their MBA degree. This is another benefit of why do an MBA degree. It allows working professionals to continue working while upskilling.

• Full-Time vs. Part-Time Programs: Full-time programmes are usually 2 years in duration, while part time programmes can be longer. However, part-time programmes are conducted in the evenings or over the weekend, allowing MBA candidates to continue working. This is one of the advantages students consider when deliberating why do an MBA degree.
• Online and Hybrid Learning: If students are unable to physically attend an MBA programme due to geographical constraints, they can choose to study via online programmes. At Regenesys, these are the same duration as an in-person MBA. Other institutes might offer the option of hybrid learning, which can allow students to continue working part-time. 
• Specialised MBA Tracks: One of the best explanations for why an MBA is that it allows professionals the option to learn specific business skills. For example, a person with an undergraduate degree in civil engineering can pursue an MBA in finance to pursue finance-based leadership roles in construction firms. 

What are the Career Opportunities for MBA Graduates in South Africa?

MBA graduates are highly sought after in the corporate world, public sector companies and start-ups. This is because an MBA helps to develop transferable skills that can be applied across industries and sectors. It is important for students to consider this whenever they find themselves wondering why do an MBA degree.

An MBA degree can be a step towards corporate roles in the same industry or can be an opportunity to pursue a career in an emerging sector such as digital marketing or business analytics. 

• Corporate Leadership Roles: An MBA offers a big growth jump in specialised sectors such as finance and marketing. It helps demonstrate to employers that the candidate has gained the skills required for critical leadership roles.
• Government and Public Sector Opportunities: MBA graduates are also attractive candidates for public sector companies as they work towards implementing private sector efficiency into the workplace. They can work in economic policy, healthcare management, and project management positions.
• Entrepreneurship and SMEs: The skills and knowledge of MBA graduates can be utilised by start-ups to help them gain funding or launch an IPO. This programme also helps to build the confidence that entrepreneurs need to branch out on their own.
• Consulting and Advisory: An MBA degree is highly recommended for individuals looking to work in consulting. The prior work experience and skills gained through the MBA programme make them valuable for prominent consulting and advisory firms. 

What are the Financial Aid and Funding Options for an MBA?

As the cost of living increases, so does higher education. Therefore, it might leave students wondering why do an MBA degree? This is because professional degrees such as an MBA is imperative to improve job prospects and boost salaries. 

Students who do not have savings or a fund reserved for higher education can rely on financial aid to pursue an MBA.

Financial aid can take the form of bursaries that do not need to be repaid or student loans that need to be repaid to the lender. Various types of financial aid are available for South African nationals who opt to study in the country. International students should apply for financial aid in their home country.

• Bursaries and Scholarships: Business schools and private organisations offer these to select students who fulfil the criteria. They require students to meet academic standards to continue receiving funding. 
• Employer Sponsorship: Companies can often sponsor staff to help them upskill to serve the organisation better. Upon completion of the degree, they are guaranteed a higher position. 
• Loan Options for MBA Studies: Students can take out education loans from banks or private institutes to help them meet the financial requirements of an MBA programme. Students who choose to complete their MBA at Regenesys are offered loans to help complete their studies. Prospective students must check out the Student Loans page for more details.

What are the Challenges of Doing an MBA in South Africa?

While an MBA is beneficial for succeeding in the corporate world, students need to understand that they also require complementary skills. Additionally, students must ensure that they complete their MBA from accredited institutes such as Regenesys so that they can be valuable.

As with any major decision, individuals must evaluate the cost in comparison to the rewards of an MBA. Since various study modes are available, they should also consider the options before selecting the best choice. 

• Financial Investment: This is an important factor to consider, especially for students without private funds. However, several bursaries and student loans are available in South Africa.
• Work-Life-Study Balance: MBA programmes can be intensive with multiple group projects. Students need to learn how to manage their personal and school life. Those enroled in part-time programmes must also be able to juggle their professional commitments. 
• Job Market Competition: While an MBA can give a competitive edge, prospective students must understand that they cannot rely solely on the degree. They must actively demonstrate hard and soft skills through projects, internships, and extracurricular activities. 

Conclusion

An MBA is a powerful degree that can act as a stepping stone to opportunities in varied industries. It also helps professionals advance their careers, network, and be hired for leaderships positions that pay well above the national average. 

If professionals are still wondering why do an MBA degree, simply put, it is because it equips them with the knowledge and skills required to become a driving force in the success of their firm. 

If you are interested in pursuing a MBA degree, make sure to check out the details and requirement of the MBA programme offered at the Regenesys Business School. 

Why Do an MBA Degree? – FAQs