MBA: Stepping stone to success?

Here is an article to justify YES; MBA is stepping stone to success. Earning an MBA is hard work but the rewards are worth the effort in challenging economic times. MBA study is a life-changing experience. It is not about simply acquiring a set of professional skills. It is an important transitional stage in your personal and professional development as a leader and decision maker. Making the investment in MBA study requires due diligence.

Advantages

Better Pay and Position

The most obvious benefits from earning your MBA in human resources are a higher salary and position.

Current HR Trends

Another benefit you receive through increased education is exposure to current knowledge, practices and techniques of human resources management. The education you receive in a MBA program may allow you to evaluate and improve your current company's HR system, design and implement a company's HR system from the ground up, and evaluate the effectiveness of your company's programs and policies as they relate the total strategic plan.

Job Stability

Many companies offer incentives for employees to get additional education, such as a tuition reimbursement program. Once your company invests in your education, they'll want to reap the benefits of your new-found knowledge. On top of that, having an MBA in human resource management can make you more appealing to employers, and human resource managers work in many industries, so you're not limited to the types of companies you want to work for.

Certification

While certification for human resources managers isn't a requirement for the job, getting certified could also make you an attractive candidate for those higher-paying, upper-management jobs. Eligibility for certification, such as those you can earn through the HR Certification Institute, often require a degree and experience. With an MBA degree, the professional experience you'll need to test for the certification could be reduced by a year or more.

Disadvantages

School Costs

While money may be a motivation for obtaining an MBA in Human Resources, it may also be a reason not to get one. Tuition, books, school fees and other academic expenses all add up to an expensive education, especially at a top notch school. Even if you choose the distance education learning route, cost is still a factor.

Time

In addition to cost, MBA programs in human resources typically take two years to complete if you study full time. If you choose to enroll part time, the time it takes to earn your degree increases. The curriculum of an MBA program can be rigorous, taking up more of your free time than you're willing to give. Even with an asynchronous online program, you'll still need to make time to study, complete assignments and exams, and possibly participate in projects or an internship.

While you may be inspired to jump the career ladder, create new networks and open doors you’ve never dreamed of, sometimes the best reason to take on a new challenge is simply personal happiness. Ultimately, this must be your number one reason for pursuing an MBA.